Podcasts about yet god

A Prayer to Take Off the Costume by Nicolet Bell In this episode by Nicolet Bell reflects on the truth that nothing is hidden from God. Just as children wear costumes to pretend to be someone else, we often try to cover up parts of ourselves—our sin, our shame, or our struggles. Yet God sees everything, and still, He loves us completely. This truth brings both conviction and comfort: conviction to confess and turn toward Him, and comfort that we are fully known and still fully loved Reference: Hebrews 4:13 Prayer: Father, remind me that I don’t have to cover up or put on a costume to come into your presence. I thank you that you see everything, nothing is hidden from you and you love me anyway. Help me to lead my children with honesty, inviting a culture of openness into our home, even when it is a challenge. Allow my children to know the depths of your love - that you see all and you love all. In Jesus’ name, amen. LINKS: How to Pray God's Word For Your Children Guide Follow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms Get today's devotion and prayer in written form to keep for future use! Support the ministry with your $5 monthly gift through Patreon. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end (Ecclesiastes 3:11). Glory to God!

Ever feel like life's hardships are a sign of God's anger? Pastor Richard explores today how God's discipline isn't about destruction. It's not about judgment or condemnation, especially for those in Christ. The cross already settled that score; Jesus' blood paid it all. Yet God may chasten you, not to harm but to shape you for good works. Nobody enjoys discipline, especially when it stings, but it's a pathway to something better.

Luke 2 is more than a Christmas reading. Pastor Ron Meyer shows how “taxing times” force us into God's positioning. Bethlehem looked illogical. The manger looked like failure. Yet God was fulfilling prophecy, providing a Passover over hell, and sending provision before anyone saw it. This message calls leaders and disciples to drop self-reliance, embrace obedience, and walk by what is written—not by sight.Scriptures referenced: Luke 2:1–7; Micah 5:2; Psalm 22; Psalm 42; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Isaiah 64:4 / 1 Corinthians 2:9; Matthew 2:13–23; Matthew 7:21–23; Hebrews 11:1.Chapters00:00 Intro: Instant Classic + Theme00:30 “Moving things around” in hard times02:30 Masks off. Honest ministry04:50 Emotions as locators of faith06:20 Grandma check vs IRS letter contrast09:00 “Taxing times” defined11:15 Hostile powers and pressure on believers13:35 Recognizing God is harder than it sounds15:15 “Who do you say I am?” John and Peter under heat18:00 Pastors quitting early problem19:30 Taxation as God's strategy, not the problem20:40 Bethlehem prophecy (Micah 5:2) vs human logic22:40 Forced obedience to fulfill prophecy24:20 The real manger. No petting zoo26:50 “Why have You forsaken me?” Psalms in hardship30:20 Walk by faith when evidence is missing32:20 Why Bethlehem: sorrow → right hand, Tower of the Flock, Passover ridge, House of Bread36:20 Healing testimony: “we needed a miracle”38:20 Stay small in your own eyes39:30 Move again with God: Egypt → Nazareth41:10 Warning: Works without knowing Him (Matt 7)42:40 Messenger vs Message. Let God build44:30 Hardship drives deeper commitment45:40 Stand on what is written46:40 Provision is en route: wise men example48:00 Call: God is in it. Stay in itShow NotesALL PROCEEDS GO TO WORLD EVANGELISMLocate a CFM Church near you: https://cfmmap.orgWe need five-star reviews! Tell the world what you think about this podcast at: • Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3vy1s5b • Podchaser: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/taking-the-land-cfm-sermon-pod-43369v

Worry can often feel like an uninvited guest that refuses to leave — overwhelming our thoughts and stealing our peace. In our daily prayer and devotional, Emily Rose Massey writes about how she lived in that space, battling anxiety and panic attacks that left her feeling helpless and alone. But through her journey of faith, she discovered the powerful truth of 1 Peter 5:7: God invites us to cast every care — every anxious thought — upon Him because He genuinely cares for us. Even as believers, we’re not immune to fear or mental struggles. Yet God doesn’t condemn us for them — He meets us there. When we choose to fix our minds on His Word and His character, He replaces panic with peace and worry with rest. The more we anchor our thoughts in Scripture, the stronger our trust in His faithfulness becomes. Whatever anxiety you’re facing today, remember: you are not alone, and you don’t have to carry it. The Lord who calms storms can calm the one inside your heart. Today's Bible Reading:“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7, NIV

LESSON 299Eternal Holiness Abides In Me.My holiness is far beyond my own ability to understand or know. Yet God, my Father, Who created it, acknowledges my holiness as His. Our Will, together, understands it. And our Will, together, knows that it is so.Father, my holiness is not of me. It is not mine to be destroyed by sin. It is not mine to suffer from attack. Illusions can obscure it, but can not put out its radiance, nor dim its light. It stands forever perfect and untouched. In it are all things healed, for they remain as You created them. And I can know my holiness. For Holiness Itself created me, and I can know my Source because it is Your Will that You be known.- Jesus Christ in ACIM

Malachi 2:10-16 We are continuing in the book of Malachi. This morning we'll be covering chapter 2 verses10-16. Please turn there. You can find it on page 954 in the pew Bible. This is our fourth of eight sermons in Malachi. It's a short book. It only has 4 chapters, but as you have seen already, it packs a punch. Malachi's prophecy began with a reminder of God's electing love for Israel. But then God turns to the ways in which they have been unfaithful in response. The overall theme of the book is God's faithfulness and Israel's unfaithfulness. And we will see that clearly in our text this morning. The people were demonstrating a lack of faith in God because of unfaithfulness in their marriages. Reading of Malachi 2:10-16 Prayer There is one relationship in life that is more important than any other. This relationship requires dedication. It's a relationship built on forgiveness. It's one where if you are not seeking to honor the one with whom you are in this relationship with, then you will struggle. Your path will be filled with difficulty. This relationship is that important. I'm talking about your relationship with the Lord. Some of you probably thought that I was going to say, “your relationship with your spouse.” Right? After all, a marriage relationship is critically important. But your relationship with the Lord is more important. It's tempting to see our text this morning as only applying to marriage. After all, it has plenty to say about marriage, and we're going to get there. However, this passage is ultimately about your faith in the creator God. So, whether you are married or not, you are directed to draw near to the Lord by faith. I don't know if you noticed it, but the word “faithless” is used here 5 times. Look at verse 10. After asking a couple of rhetorical questions, which we'll get to, it says, “why then are we faithless to one another.” Then immediately in verse 11. “Judah has been faithless.” Judah was the southern kingdom which was exiled, some of whom had returned. So in other words, God was calling them faithless. Now go down to verse 14. In the middle there it says, “…the Lord was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless.” That is repeated at the end of 15. “Let none of you be faithless to the wife of your youth.” In those instances, it is faithless to their spouse. And finally, this passage ends with this, “so guard yourselves in your spirit, and do not be faithless.” So, faithless. Their faithless actions and faithlessness in their marriages, displayed a faithlessness before God. To give a little structure this morning, we'll consider this in 4 points. 1. Faithless before a Faithful God (2:10–11a) 2. Faithless with a Faithless Bride (2:11b–12) 3. Faithless to a Faithful Bride (2:13–16) 4. Faithful despite a Faithless Bride Those may be hard to remember, but they are printed there on page 4. 1. Faithless before a Faithful God (2:10–11a) So again, #1, Faithless before a faithful God. Verse 10 and the first half of verse 11 begin by emphasizing their covenant relationship with God and therefore with one another. The two questions there in 10 direct them to God. Malachi asks “Have we not all one Father? Has not one God created us?” They already know the answer. Yes, he is God their Father. Yes, they are his children. And yes, he is their creator. Those questions are to remind them of who God is;  who they are; and the centrality of his relationship with them. You see, before God speaks into the tangled mess of their marriage relationships, he first directs them to himself. He also directs them to one another. That is because their faithless actions not only reflected their faithlessness before God. But it also reflected on their faithlessness with one another. In other words, because they were in a covenant relationship with God together, anyone who broke that covenant with God, was being faithlessness toward one another. And anyone breaking the covenant with one another, was being faithless before God. By the way, we are going to get very practical in just a couple of minutes. But before we get there, it's critical to first understand why breaking the covenant was an act of faithlessness. It says that by their actions, they were “profaning the covenant.” That's  a strong statement Let me say a couple things about it: ·      The reference to covenant here includes the promises that God made to Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David. God established a relationship with them as his people. He called them to be his. He gave them his law. He promised them a kingdom and that they would be a people as numerous as the sands of the sea. They were set apart by the God of all creation. It was a beautiful thing. ·      But they “profaned” the covenant relationship. They profaned it because they were dishonoring God by violating the relationship that he had established with them. They had been breaking his commands. Rather than acting in faith, some had been rejecting the covenant promises that God had given them. So, it was serious. That's why it says in 11 that they had been faithless. They had been faithless to God and faithless to one another. Now, I want to say one more thing before we get to the heart of this passage about marriage. In the middle of verse 11 it says that they profaned the “sanctuary of the Lord.” At the heart of the word translated “sanctuary” is the word set apart. Some believe this is a reference to God's covenant people. They were profaning one another. And I think that's right. It goes along with two things. First, verse 10 had just said that they were faithless to one another. And second, immediately after saying they had profaned the sanctuary, it says, “which he loves.” Remember from the opening verses of chapter 1. God loves his people. In summary, their sin broke faith with God and with one another. Sometimes we don't think about that. Our sin is not only a sin against God it is sin against the covenant community. No matter our sin, it affects the community, sometimes in a more direct way, which we will see here, or sometimes indirectly. Either way, it was breaking fellowship with God and with one another. Ok, then, but what was it? What sin had they committed which was an abomination to God and which was faithless to one another? Well, they had been violating God's sacred establishment of covenant marriage. They were violating it in two ways: First, many had been marrying people outside of the covenant. And second, many had been unlawfully divorcing their spouses. 2. Faithless with a Faithless Bride (2:11b–12) Which brings us to points 2 and 3 about those two things. About unholy marriage and unlawful divorce. Point 2 is this: Faithless with a Faithless Bride. They were being covenantally unfaithful because they were marrying outside of the faith. Right there at the end of 11. They had “married the daughter of a foreign God.” Verse 12 points the finger at some men who were doing this When the exiles were in Babylon, all around them were not just Babylonians but also other nations that Babylon had conquered and brought to Babylon. The temptation was to intermarry with those outside of God's covenant people. But even when they were back in Jerusalem, there were now people from other kingdoms. Part of the temptation was marrying into the people group who was in control in order to improve their plight. Now, whether it was just an attraction to someone outside of the covenant community or whether it was for economic gain, either way, it was an abomination, as God says. And let me be very clear. This is not about race. There is nothing in the Bible that prohibits marriage between people from different ethnic backgrounds or people groups. Rather, this is about marrying outside of God's covenant community. That is very clear at the end of verse 11, “the daughter of a foreign God.” Plus, we have several examples of women who were originally outside of God's covenant community, but who became part of the covenant, and then married an Israelite. Think of Ruth. Ruth was a Moabite woman who was joined the covenant community and then married Boaz. Rahab is another example. She was a Cannanite, whom God spared from the destruction of Jericho because of her faith. She married Salmon. The admonition for us is to only marry someone who shares our faith in Christ. Let me take a moment to speak to those of you who are not married – young and old. Not everyone is called to be married. The apostle Paul wasn't married, and he makes it clear that there are blessings to being single. But many of you have the desire to be married. Younger kids, I want to make sure you are listening as well. Marriage may be far from your mind right now. You may be thinking “eww, marriage.”  But that will likely change. So, listen as well. If you decide to get married, the most important thing is to marry someone who shares your faith in Christ. It's God's command to marry in the Lord. The world says that love is not a choice. It says that when love finds you, no matter with whom, you cannot say “no.” But don't buy the lie. Don't mix up attraction with love. Love is a choice. Yes, you should be attracted to someone you want to marry, but that person needs to share your faith and commitment to your Lord and Savior. There is no such thing as missionary dating. Do you hear me? You are playing with fire if you are dating someone who you think you can win over to Christ. It's the Holy Spirit job to change someone's heart. Don't go there. The most important relationship you have is with the Lord and if you can't share that with your spouse, it is difficult and comes with consequences. I know several godly people who are married to unbelievers, and they would confirm that struggle. Sometimes that happens because one spouse comes to faith in Christ after getting married. Praise the Lord. If that happens, the struggle is still there. If you are in that situation, stay married. As the Scriptures say, so that you may win over your spouse. But sometimes someone young in his or her faith marries an unbeliever. It's only later that the person realizes the sin of it and how difficult it is. God forgives and he helps. If that is you, stay married and continue to pray for your unbelieving spouse to believe. And we will pray along with you. But for those of you who are not married, I plead with you, if you marry, marry a Godly man or woman who loves the Lord and his Word. Not just someone who says they are a Christian, but someone who demonstrates their faith and Love for the Lord. These verses are saying that marrying outside of God's covenant community demonstrates faithlessness. The consequences are difficult. 3. Faithless to a Faithful Bride (2:13–16) Which brings us to the other thing that they were doing. Many were unlawfully divorcing their spouses. This is point 3. Faithless to a Faithful Bride. As we already saw, twice it mentions unfaithfulness to the wife of their youth. These men had made a covenant commitment to these women, yet they were walking away from their marriages. We're not told, but perhaps some of them were the ones who then married outside of the covenant community. Before I go on, I want to be sensitive to the burdens and pain in this room from past marriages. Some of you have endured difficult marriages that have failed. Perhaps your marriage failed because of your own sin or perhaps your spouse's or perhaps both of you. Whatever the situation, it's hard and there's often relational fallout beyond the breaking of that marriage covenant. But I want you to know that God is merciful and forgiving. As you look back and either recognize your own complicity or you feel the hurt of being sinned against, know that God forgives and ministers his grace. To be sure, God's mercy and forgiveness is never to be a justification for an unbiblical divorce. The Scriptures are clear about divorce. Jesus spoke of divorce being permissible when sexual infidelity has occurred. Elsewhere abandonment is included. I would include abuse as a form of abandonment. These grievous sins are the only grounds for divorce. What was happening in Jerusalem is that marriages were being annulled because a spouse no longer cared to be married. And because of it, God no longer heard them or received their offerings, verse 13. They were weeping because of God not receiving them. It was not a godly grief that led to repentance, but rather just a groaning because of the consequences. In verse 14, they ask, “why has he not?” Why does God no longer accept us? By the way, this is the Malachi pattern, remember. They were reaping the consequences of their sin but didn't acknowledge their sin. And so the hammer drops again. Two weeks ago the hammer dropped on their polluted offerings. Last week it dropped on the corrupt priests. And here, it's back to the people, some of whom were faithless by divorcing their spouses without warrant. But they had made a covenant with their spouse. The Lord was a witness to that covenant commitment. And look at verse 15. “Did he [that is, God] not make them one, with a portion of the Spirit in their union?” They were united to one another in marriage. It's a reference back to Genesis 1. God was actively present in bringing about that oneness. So by abandoning their marriage, they were abandoning God. And not only that, they were abandoning God's call for them to raise their children to know the Lord. As the middle of 15 says, God desires “Godly offspring.” It would be a downward spiral of faithless future generations. Now, not every husband or wife was walking away from their marriage. But even some who were still married were considering divorce. We know that because it says, “guard yourself in your spirit and let none of you BE faithless.” The verse before said some of them “have been faithless.” In other words, for the ones who were still in their covenant marriage, they were to guard their hearts and minds against going down the path of divorce. And, actually, did you notice that the phrase, “guard yourself in your spirit” is used twice. Once in verse 15 and second in verse 16. Ok, let me now speak to those who are married. Some of your marriages are struggling. And I probably only know the half of it. Every marriage has its ups and downs, but some marriages have acute struggles for a variety of reasons. And it is hard. What is supposed to be the most intimate relationship on earth, is sometimes fraught with tension and mistrust and heartache because of current sin or past sin... which can lead to more sin and cause more tension and more mistrust and more heartache. If that is you, I want to say two things: 1. As it says here, “guard yourself in your spirit.” Do not let yourself wander to thoughts of divorce. Don't let go of the covenant that you made to your spouse. Pursue your spouse again. Recommit yourself to your marriage. There's a warning here of faithlessness if you pursue unbiblical divorce. So, guard your thoughts and your heart. 2. Number 2. There is help and there is hope. There is not a single elder here unwilling to help if your marriage is struggling. Please reach out. I will meet with you and pray with you, multiple times if necessary. We can also find help outside of our church if you would be more comfortable with that. But please reach out. If you do not think your marriage needs help, but your spouse does, let me encourage you to honor and listen to your spouse. Set aside whatever is preventing you from getting help. And do not lose hope. We serve a God who is in the business of forgiving and reconciling. The forgiveness and reconciliation that he gives you, individually, is the basis for forgiveness and reconciliation in you marriage. 4. Faithful despite a Faithless Bride Which is a nice transition to point 4. Faithful despite a Faithless Bride I'm not talking about a marriage between a man and a woman here. I am talking about the marriage between Christ and his church. Despite the unfaithfulness of God's people, his bride, God has remained faithful. The marriage paradigm is the pattern that God uses all throughout Scripture to convey his faithfulness despite our unfaithfulness. And this goes all the way back to the garden of Eden. When Adam and Eve sinned against God, when they ate of the forbidden fruit, their sin was spiritual adultery. They had been in a covenant relationship with God. He promised them life, but they turned against his promise of blessing and instead ate that which was forbidden. That spiritual adultery theme continues throughout the Scriptures. God's people were betrothed to God, but they forsook his name and committed spiritual adultery against him by going after other so-called gods from the surrounding nations. But as we read in Hosea 2 earlier in the service, despite the people's unfaithfulness, God promised that he would be faithful. He promised to be their husband who would protect and lead them in righteousness and justice. They would once again be called his people and they would call him their God. This is the pattern over and over in the Old Testament. The people forgot the Lord. They acted in adulterous ways like the people here in Jerusalem. Yet God was merciful… and just like here, he called them back to himself. And the climax of this marriage paradigm in Scripture… is found in Christ. He not only sought his bride, the church, but as we read earlier in Ephesians 5, he died for her. There is no greater love. He sanctifies and cleanses her. By giving his church his righteousness, Christ presents her pure and spotless. SO not only is he faithful despite her unfaithfulness, he makes her faithful. And he nourishes and cherishes her and leads her. And all of that will come to full fruition when he returns for the consummation of the great spiritual wedding. He will usher his people, his bride, into the wedding supper of the Lamb forever. Beloved, this is the reason that marriage is sacred. Marriage on earth is patterned after the union between God and his people. It is why a Christian should only marry a Christian. It is why God hates divorce. It is why those who are married should fight for their marriage and not against it. It is why in a marriage relationship you should love and forgive just as Christ loved you and forgave you. It is why a husband has been called to be the spiritual leader in his marriage and home. It is a sacrificial leading. Again, as Ephesians 5 said, husbands love your wives as Christ loved the church and died for her. The people in Jerusalem didn't have this full picture, yet. They didn't yet know of what was to come. But as we will find out in these next 2 chapters, God is going to lift the curtain and give them a glimpse of what was soon to come for them. In the meantime, they were to return in faith to God by returning in faithfulness to their covenant marriages. For those who desire one day to be married, seek Godly spouses by faith in Christ. And for those who are married, pursue and love our spouses because God has pursued and loved you. For all of us, may we see the beauty and wonder of our bridegroom, Christ. And because of his love and faithfulness to us, may we seek to be faithful in return to him.  

Suffering as a Means of Spiritual Growth      Sufferings (pathēma) encompass a broader category that includes pain, hardship, or affliction resulting from life in a fallen world, the hostility of others, or divine discipline. The word pathēma derives from paschō, meaning “to experience, suffer, endure…affliction.”[1] The word is frequently used in the New Testament to describe the sufferings of Christ as well as those of His followers (Phil 3:10). Peter wrote, “After you have suffered [paschō] for a little while, the God of all grace…will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you” (1 Pet 5:10). Suffering may come through persecution for righteousness (2 Tim 3:12), through physical weakness or limitation (2 Cor 12:7–9), or simply through the general consequences of living in a sin-cursed world (Rom 8:18–22).      While trials test faith, sufferings train the soul through endurance, humility, and dependence upon God's sustaining grace. Paul's personal afflictions illustrate this reality well. Though he pleaded three times for relief from his “thorn in the flesh,” the Lord replied, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness” (2 Cor 12:8–9). Likewise, Joseph's prolonged suffering in Egypt, though marked by injustice and hardship, became the means by which God shaped his character and positioned him for blessing and service (Gen 37–50).      The Hebrew counterpart to pathēma is עָנָה (ʿānâ), which means to “be bowed down, afflicted…be put down or become low.”[2] It is often used to describe the suffering of God's people under pressure (Ex 1:11–12; Deut 8:2–3) or the self-humbling that accompanies dependence upon the Lord (Lev 16:29, 31; cf. Jam 4:6; 1 Pet 5:6). Both pathēma andʿānâ express the spiritual principle that God uses adversity not to crush His people but to conform them to His character. Through suffering rightly endured, believers are drawn into closer fellowship with Christ, as Paul wrote, “that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings [pathēma]” (Phil 3:10). Categories of Suffering      Scripture presents several categories of suffering in the believer's life, each serving distinct purposes within God's sovereign plan. Some suffering comes because of righteousness, as Paul wrote, “Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Tim 3:12). Peter echoes this when he states, “Even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed” (1 Pet 3:14). To suffer for righteousness means God permits evil men to persecute the believer who is walking in His will (John 15:18–19; 2 Tim 3:12). Yet God blesses by supplying grace sufficient in the moment (2 Cor 12:9), and future reward at the judgment seat of Christ where faithful endurance will be recognized (1 Cor 3:12–15; 2 Cor 5:10). At times, suffering comes for the sake of testimony, advancing the gospel and glorifying God. Paul wrote, “Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel” (Phil 1:12). The “circumstances” Paul refers to are his imprisonment in Rome, which placed him under house arrest while awaiting trial before Caesar (Acts 28:16, 30).[3] There is also the category of shared suffering with Christ, as Paul longed “that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings” (Phil 3:10). These forms of suffering reveal God's sovereign use of adversity for His glory and the believer's growth. Apart from these, Scripture identifies two main forms of suffering that promote spiritual growth: corrective suffering, which restores the disobedient to fellowship, and perfective suffering, which refines the obedient toward greater maturity in Christ. Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div.   [1] Moisés Silva, ed., New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology and Exegesis (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2014), 666. [2] Francis Brown, Samuel Rolles Driver, and Charles Augustus Briggs, Enhanced Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew and English Lexicon (Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1977), 776. [3] This was likely during his first Roman imprisonment (around A.D. 60–62). Though restricted, Paul was permitted to receive visitors and to preach and teach from his rented quarters (Acts 28:30–31). Paul had been falsely accused in Jerusalem, arrested, and after a series of hearings before Jewish and Roman authorities—including Felix, Festus, and Agrippa—he exercised his right as a Roman citizen to appeal to Caesar (Acts 25:11–12). This led to his voyage to Rome, where he endured shipwreck and eventually arrived under guard (Acts 27–28). Humanly speaking, imprisonment might have looked like a setback. His chains gave him opportunity to share Christ with the Praetorian Guard (Phil 1:13), Rome's elite soldiers, and word spread even into Caesar's household (Phil 4:22). Furthermore, his example emboldened other believers to speak the word of God without fear (Phil 1:14). In other words, the “circumstances” of Phil 1:12 were Paul's unjust arrest, Roman confinement, and looming trial. Yet, rather than hindering God's work, these very hardships became the platform for advancing the gospel, both among unbelievers in high places and among believers who gained courage from Paul's faithfulness.

We were created to live in the presence of God — that's where we are most at home. But sin pushed us out of the garden and away from the fellowship we were made for. The tragedy of sin isn't just punishment; it's distance. Yet God refused to leave us exiled. From the very beginning, He initiated a plan to bring us home through His Son, Jesus Christ. This message invites you to take that step — to call on Jesus or return to Him — and rediscover the peace and belonging that can only be found in His presence.

David Hansen - October 26th, 2025 - Recognition, Repentance, Redemption 1. Recognition ROMANS 1 20 -22 Human DNA: about 3.2 billion base pairs within helical ladder, in a specific order. Presuppose ladder rails mounted on abundance of 4 nucleotide rung pairs: Thymine, Cytosine, Guanine, Adenine. “A” goes with “T”, “G” goes with “C”, both pairing via weak H+ bonds. Start Stacking! Stir for billions of years, add energy, isolate as needed, warm/cool as needed. BINGO! DNA! DNA is not alive but is the key to life, the cell in which it exists is a wonder of symbiosis: The cell membrane itself is a wonder: Genesis 1:27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. Genesis 2:7 And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. Psalm 14:1 - The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works….. Daniel 12:4 But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased. RECOGNIZE ACCOUNTABILITY - Cognitive - I am created. (In fact, God is my Creator.) Moral I have sinned. (In fact, I am in a condition of sin. Yet God must be glorious and holy.) 2. Repentance - Romans 1:20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse. PSALM 139 14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made, marvelous are thy works and that my soul knoweth right well. 15 My substance was not hid from thee when I was made in secret … 3. Redemption ! - Mark 2 14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, 15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye and believe the gospel. Hebrews 9:27 … and as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment… Hebrews 11:6But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. 1 Timothy 2 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth, 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

Everyone wants to change the world. Or did at some point. Most of us tend to give up when we realize that we can barely even change our own selves! Yet God created us to make a difference in this world. We are born in a specific time in His story for a specific purpose. He wants us to have an impact in our world.   Most of us stumble on the how. How can we impact our families, our neighbors, our culture and our world? In this week's teaching we will learn God's plan to maximize our impact. This is the life you've been waiting for.   ABOUT: Lina AbuJamra is a Pediatric ER doctor, now practicing telemedicine, and the founder of Living With Power Ministries. Known for her bold faith and down-to-earth honesty, she's passionate (and allegedly funny) about helping people connect biblical truth to everyday life. Whether through teaching, writing, or podcasting, Lina brings hope to those wrestling with life's hardest questions. When she's not speaking or creating content, she's providing medical and humanitarian aid in crisis zones like Lebanon and Uganda. Learn more about her at LivingWithPower.org. Follow on Insta: linaabujamra Follow on Facebook: Lina Abujamra

Click here for more on this topic and other free resources - https://www.drjimrichards.com If you were facing a difficult situation today—sickness, financial pressure, a tough business decision, a troubled relationship, or any other challenge—how would you pray? Would you ask God to fix the situation, to work a miracle? Or would you pray for wisdom? Most people would pray for a miracle. They want God to deliver them from the problem. And you can be certain of this: God does want you delivered. We all know we should pray about everything and look for God's help in our time of need. But what we often forget is that there are many kinds of prayer, and not every type is effective in every situation. Yet God gives us clear instructions for how to pray when we are being tested or tempted. The Greek word translated “tested” means to be tempted to do evil, tested, examined, or made to strain. Unfortunately, many believers have been taught that God orchestrates these hardships to accomplish some mystical agenda. But the Bible tells us something very different: Let no one say when he is tempted, tested, tried, scrutinized, or made to strain, I am tempted by God! (James 1:13). Under no circumstances should we ever blame God for the struggles we face. He cannot be both the tormentor and the deliverer—He is only one or the other. In fact, Scripture warns that blaming God for our troubles is a form of self-deception: “Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning” (James 1:16–17). It doesn't say some of what God does is good; it says everything He does is good. God not only tells us how to pray when we're in difficult situations—He even tells us what we should pray for. Yet so often, we ignore His simple, powerful instructions. Join me this week as I share how the Scriptures teach us to pray when facing life's struggles. Instead of clinging to religious traditions that rarely bring lasting results, you'll discover a more excellent way—a way that leads to peace, power, and the perfect outcome God desires for you.

Send us your feedback — we're listeningMatthew 6:13 — Lead Us Not into Temptation: A Prayer for Peace and StrengthScripture (NIV):“And lead us not into temptation.” — Matthew 6:13 (NIV)Recorded live here in London, England — where faith meets the world in daily prayer and global hope.Show NotesTemptation is the crossroads where fear meets faith. When Jesus said, “Lead us not into temptation,” He was not suggesting God tempts us — He was teaching us to seek divine guidance through every trial. The Shepherd's path protects us from the snares that destroy peace.Around the world, people are weary from anxiety, distraction, and moral pressure. Yet God's promise remains: there is always a way out, a way forward, and a way through. His Spirit strengthens us when temptation feels overwhelming.This prayer invites surrender. It is not about resisting by willpower alone, but walking closely enough with the Shepherd that His presence redirects our steps before we fall. Peace comes when we trust His leading more than our impulses.Whatever you face today — stress, fear, doubt, or compromise — remember that the One who leads you is stronger than anything opposing you. Let His peace guard your heart and His strength steady your soul.10 Global Prayer PointsLord, guide us away from every snare and distraction.Strengthen believers to stand firm under pressure.Guard minds battling anxiety and temptation.Protect young hearts from digital and moral corruption.Give peace to those living in constant fear.Restore integrity among leaders and nations.Deliver families from cycles of addiction and despair.Empower the Church to walk in holiness and courage.Replace weakness with the strength of Your Spirit.Thank You, Father, for leading us daily into peace and victory.Life ApplicationPeace is found in the path God chooses, not in the one we control. Declaration: The Lord leads me; His Spirit strengthens me; I walk in peace and victory today.Call to ActionShare this prayer for peace and strength with someone facing temptation or fear. Support this listener-funded ministry at RBChristianRadio.net and help bring daily prayers of faith to the nations. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and SpotifSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

Babylon is not a locality—it's a mentality. God's people have always faced the challenge of living in “Babylon” without losing who they are or what they're called to. Yet God also calls His people to influence Babylon. How can we live with conviction while building connection, favour, and influence? Join us as we learn from the roadmap Daniel and his friends left us.

How do you move forward after a life marked by trauma and pain? Can looking back be the very thing that helps you discover your purpose in God's plan?As a young orphan in war-torn Liberia, Jackson TerKeurst could never have imagined the path his life would take. After years in an orphanage surrounded by the devastation of conflict, Jackson was invited to join a group of children on a tour across the United States—sharing stories of resilience and hope born from unimaginable suffering.But in the midst of that journey, Jackson received heartbreaking news: he would not be returning home. His country and the orphanage he once knew had been overtaken by violence and chaos. Stranded and grieving, Jackson faced an uncertain future.Yet God was writing a greater story.Through a series of divine appointments, Jackson met the TerKeurst family, who would eventually adopt him and his brother. Today, Jackson is an entrepreneur, a husband, and a father. He reflects on his journey and how God's hand was evident through it all in his new book,The Only Way Forward Is Back: A Story of War, Adoption, and Finding Your Purpose in God's Plan.In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Davey sits down with Jackson to explore the deep wounds of growing up in a war zone, how revisiting the past has been key to Jackson's healing, and why serving others plays such a central role in his story.If you've ever been hesitant to look back at your own pain, this episode will remind you: sometimes it's in looking back that we find the very path God has prepared to move us forward. Website: www.jacksonterkeurst.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/jacksonterkeurst_Facebook: www.facebook.com/jackson.terkeurst/Book: The Only Way Forward Is Back: A Story of War, Adoption, and Finding Your Purpose in God's Plan Wondering where to get started on your journey towards healing? Join Davey on our next FREE, live Zoom call and find out how you can begin to take back your story and how Nothing is Wasted can help. Sign up today at: www.nothingiswasted.com/starthere Looking for help in navigating the valley of pain and trauma? Our Nothing is Wasted coaches can help: www.nothingiswasted.com/coaching Want a pathway through your pain? The Pain to Purpose Course can lead you through all you've been through: www.nothingiswasted.com/paintoppurpose Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many people coming out of Mormonism ask, “So now that I'm free to choose, how do I pick a church?” In this episode, we explore what it really means to find a healthy, biblical Christian church — one that's Jesus-centered, Bible-based, and grace-driven.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Leaving Mormonism can feel like losing your spiritual “home base.” In LDS culture, wards are assigned by address. In biblical Christianity, you're free to choose a local church family. But freedom raises a wise question: How do you pick a healthy, Bible-teaching, Jesus-centered church?Start with Scripture, Not a SystemMany former Latter-day Saints have heard 1 Timothy 3:15 used to imply that the “true church” must be a single organization with one earthly headquarters and priesthood keys: “This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth.” (NLT) Paul isn't describing a corporate institution; he's describing a community of believers built on Christ with qualified local leaders (read all of 1 Timothy 3). The foundation is Jesus himself—not a modern hierarchy. “For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 3:11, NLT) “Together, we are his house… built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself.” (Ephesians 2:20, NLT)In other words, the “pillar and foundation of the truth” is the global family of men and women who belong to Jesus and uphold his Word in local congregations.Three Non-NegotiablesHealthy churches are:Jesus-centered (the person and work of Christ are central),Bible-based (Scripture is the final authority),Grace-proclaiming (the gospel is good news, not good advice).“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true.” (2 Timothy 3:16, NLT)“There is salvation in no one else!” (Acts 4:12, NLT)“For everyone has sinned… Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight.” (Romans 3:23-24, NLT)A Loving but Discerning Warning about the Prosperity GospelSome churches teach that God guarantees health, wealth, and constant success if you have enough faith. That's not the New Testament gospel; it's motivational religion with Bible words. Jesus said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me.” (Luke 9:23, NLT) The Bible prepares us for valleys as well as victories: “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.” (Psalm 23:4, NLT) Don't swap LDS performance religion for a health-and-wealth counterfeit.Look for Real CommunityJesus said, “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my...

Many people coming out of Mormonism ask, “So now that I'm free to choose, how do I pick a church?” In this episode, we explore what it really means to find a healthy, biblical Christian church — one that's Jesus-centered, Bible-based, and grace-driven.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Leaving Mormonism can feel like losing your spiritual “home base.” In LDS culture, wards are assigned by address. In biblical Christianity, you're free to choose a local church family. But freedom raises a wise question: How do you pick a healthy, Bible-teaching, Jesus-centered church?Start with Scripture, Not a SystemMany former Latter-day Saints have heard 1 Timothy 3:15 used to imply that the “true church” must be a single organization with one earthly headquarters and priesthood keys: “This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth.” (NLT) Paul isn't describing a corporate institution; he's describing a community of believers built on Christ with qualified local leaders (read all of 1 Timothy 3). The foundation is Jesus himself—not a modern hierarchy. “For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 3:11, NLT) “Together, we are his house… built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself.” (Ephesians 2:20, NLT)In other words, the “pillar and foundation of the truth” is the global family of men and women who belong to Jesus and uphold his Word in local congregations.Three Non-NegotiablesHealthy churches are:Jesus-centered (the person and work of Christ are central),Bible-based (Scripture is the final authority),Grace-proclaiming (the gospel is good news, not good advice).“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true.” (2 Timothy 3:16, NLT)“There is salvation in no one else!” (Acts 4:12, NLT)“For everyone has sinned… Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight.” (Romans 3:23-24, NLT)A Loving but Discerning Warning about the Prosperity GospelSome churches teach that God guarantees health, wealth, and constant success if you have enough faith. That's not the New Testament gospel; it's motivational religion with Bible words. Jesus said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me.” (Luke 9:23, NLT) The Bible prepares us for valleys as well as victories: “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.” (Psalm 23:4, NLT) Don't swap LDS performance religion for a health-and-wealth counterfeit.Look for Real CommunityJesus said, “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my...

The tribe of Levi began under a curse, scattered throughout Israel as punishment for their ancestors' violent sins at Shechem. Yet God transformed this judgment into an incredible blessing, making the Levites the priests and spiritual leaders of the entire nation. Their scattering became a strategic placement to serve all of Israel, and their inheritance became God Himself rather than temporary land. From this cursed tribe came Moses, Aaron, and other great spiritual leaders. This transformation reveals God's power to turn our deepest shame into our highest calling, whether we're dealing with consequences from our own mistakes or suffering from others' sins.

Since we live under grace, we're no longer slaves to the law. Yet God's law still plays an important role in the Christian life. From his sermon series in Romans, today R.C. Sproul explains our relationship to the law as people justified by faith alone. Request R.C. Sproul's commentary on the book of Romans with your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4345/offer   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request the Romans commentary ebook with your donation:  https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global Tune out the noise and tune in to RefNet, Ligonier's free 24/7 internet radio app. Download today and start listening: http://refnet.fm/app 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.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Since we live under grace, we're no longer slaves to the law. Yet God's law still plays an important role in the Christian life. From his sermon series in Romans, today R.C. Sproul explains our relationship to the law as people justified by faith alone. Request R.C. Sproul's commentary on the book of Romans with your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4344/offer   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request the Romans commentary ebook with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global Tune out the noise and tune in to RefNet, Ligonier's free 24/7 internet radio app. Download today and start listening: http://refnet.fm/app 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.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Wondering about the power of God’s Word and your own calling? Megan J. Conner reflects on John 1:1-5, showing how God’s Word has been present since the beginning, creating life and shining light into the darkness. This devotional reminds us that we carry God’s light within us and are called to bear it in the world. Highlights God’s Word existed from the beginning and created all life (John 1:1-3). The light of God penetrates darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it (John 1:4-5). Believers carry God’s light within them, called to be ambassadors of His mission (Matt. 5:14). God’s Word guides, transforms, and shapes our lives, even fulfilling dreams He places in our hearts. Personal stories illustrate how God fulfills His promises in unexpected and meaningful ways. Join the Conversation What dreams or callings has God placed in your heart? How are you letting His light shine through your life today? Share your reflections and encourage others to trust God’s Word. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #LightInTheDarkness #GodsWord #CalledToShine to join the conversation.

Genesis 16 | Pastor Greg This chapter shows Abram (mid-80s) and Sarai (mid-70s) growing weary of waiting for God's promised child; Sarai urges Abram to sleep with Hagar, and Hagar conceives Ishmael—igniting jealousy, mistreatment, and years of fallout. Yet God meets Hagar in the wilderness, names her son, and reveals Himself as “the God who sees” (El Roi), showing tender care for the wounded even amid human failure. The message lands simply: believe God's love, wait on His timing, don't “help” His promise through the flesh, and remember He sees, hears, and keeps His word—even when we make a mess. Packinghouse's Wednesday night worship service from October 8, 2025. - Greg Opean - Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Genesis 16 | Pastor Greg This chapter shows Abram (mid-80s) and Sarai (mid-70s) growing weary of waiting for God's promised child; Sarai urges Abram to sleep with Hagar, and Hagar conceives Ishmael—igniting jealousy, mistreatment, and years of fallout. Yet God meets Hagar in the wilderness, names her son, and reveals Himself as “the God who sees” (El Roi), showing tender care for the wounded even amid human failure. The message lands simply: believe God's love, wait on His timing, don't “help” His promise through the flesh, and remember He sees, hears, and keeps His word—even when we make a mess. Packinghouse's Wednesday night worship service from October 8, 2025. - Greg Opean - Wednesday, October 8, 2025

In the last several months, we have experienced an immense amount of loss. In the midst of that loss, it is very easy to be distracted by the things that we no longer have. Yet God wants to use that loss as a focusing tool to draw our attention to what we actually do have. He takes what we often perceive as little but what is actually abundant and uses it to bring even greater fruitfulness and blessing. Today on Countdown 2 Eternity we are going to talk about that, so don't miss out on this important Bible study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1479/29

A Prayer to Be a Godly Empty Nest Mom Parenthood often brings with it fears—fear of repeating unhealthy family patterns, fear of failure, and fear of wounding the ones we love most. But Scripture reminds us that we are not defined by our past or bound by old habits.In today's prayer, Gina Smith reminds us that through seasons of raising young children and then learning how to love and support adult children, the temptation to fall back into fear and old ways remains. Yet God’s Word offers freedom: we are new creations in Christ. His Spirit empowers us to parent, love, and live in a way that glorifies Him, no matter what stage of life we are in. Reference: 2 Corinthians 5:17 Prayer: Father, help me to live by the Spirit and to focus on the fact that I am a new creation and I don’t need to fear repeating patterns that are in my family. As I walk in this reality, please give me the opportunity to show my children what it means to be a new creation and be an example of what it means to live for you and be controlled by your Spirit. I want to leave the past behind and not be defined by what has happened to me or what I may have done. Please renew my mind, conform me into your image, and cause this transformation to be lived out in all that I do. My hope is in you alone. Amen LINKS: How to Pray God's Word For Your Children Guide Connect with Gina Smith Get today's devotion and prayer in written form to keep for future use! Support the ministry with your $5 monthly gift through Patreon. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God's frustration echoes across millennia in the ending verses of Ezekiel chapter 33: "They come to you as people come and hear your words, but they do not do them." This ancient complaint strikes at the heart of modern faith—our tendency to consume spiritual content without allowing it to transform our daily lives.The Jewish exiles in Babylon had just received confirmation that Jerusalem had fallen, exactly as Ezekiel prophesied. Vindicated as a true prophet, Ezekiel suddenly found himself popular among the people who gathered eagerly to hear his messages. Yet God reveals their fatal flaw: they treated divine revelation like entertainment—"like a sensual song by one who has a beautiful voice"—appreciated in the moment but forgotten when life's real decisions came calling.This disconnect between hearing and doing remains our greatest spiritual challenge today. We attend services, listen to sermons, participate in Bible studies, yet when facing workplace dilemmas, relationship conflicts, or financial pressures, we often default to worldly wisdom rather than trusting God's guidance. The Israelites claimed Abraham's promise while ignoring God's commands; similarly, we claim Christian identity while compartmentalizing our faith.The chapter ending reveals a crucial theological distinction: God's unconditional promises (like the land covenant) stand firm, but experiencing their blessings requires faithful obedience. For Christians today, this mirrors our salvation security through Christ while reminding us that the quality of our spiritual journey depends significantly on our willingness to trust and obey God daily.Are you sitting before God's Word as an appreciative audience member or as a committed disciple? The difference isn't found in church attendance but in Monday through Saturday decisions that reveal whether we're merely fans of spiritual content or genuine followers transformed by divine truth. Listen again to Ezekiel's ancient warning—it might be the most relevant message you'll hear today.Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a five-star rating to help your podcast provider's algorithm spread RTTB among their listeners. You can find free study and leader resources at the following link - Resource Page - Reasoning Through the Bible Please prayerfully consider supporting RTTB to help us to continue providing content and free resources. You can do that at this link - Support RTTB - Reasoning Through the Bible May God Bless you!! - Glenn and Steve

Though the enemy seeks to destroy us, Christ restores and strengthens us to stand firm in faith. Peter's denial shows the reality of spiritual battles. Yet God restores him, proving that failure isn't the end. Learn how to stand firm against the enemy with Christ's strength.

“Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11 NLT) Manx shearwaters are seabirds that nest off the coast of Wales. To study the birds’ homing instincts, scientists tagged and transported several Manx shearwaters to various points around the globe. They released the birds to see if they could make their way back to the coast of Wales in just twelve days. Each one did. One bird, which was released in Boston, traveled 250 miles a day from a place it had never been before to get back home. So, the next time someone calls you a birdbrain, take it as a compliment. God has placed a homing instinct in us as well. Call it a homesickness for Heaven. We long for a place we’ve never been before. That’s how we’re wired. The author of Ecclesiastes said that God “has planted eternity in the human heart” (3:11 NLT). In our next set of devotions, we’re going to explore what the Bible says about Heaven, the beacon for our homing instinct. Some people tend to go mystical when they talk about the afterlife. They describe Heaven as a state of mind rather than an actual place. The Bible, on the other hand, describes Heaven as a real place. Jesus told His followers, “There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?” (John 14:2 NLT). The author of Hebrews described Heaven as a city. “But they were looking for a better place, a heavenly homeland. That is why God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them” (Hebrews 11:16 NLT). Jesus identified Heaven as the dwelling place of God when He began the Lord’s Prayer with the words “Our Father in heaven” (Matthew 6:9 NLT). Luke identified it as the dwelling place of angels. “When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about’” (Luke 2:15 NLT). Hebrews 12:23 identifies Heaven as the dwelling place of believers who have died. “You have come to the assembly of God’s firstborn children, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God himself, who is the judge over all things. You have come to the spirits of the righteous ones in heaven who have now been made perfect” (NLT). Our brief time on earth is a pale imitation—a sneak preview—of what awaits us in Heaven. C. S. Lewis wrote, “All the things that have ever deeply possessed your soul have been hints of heaven—tantalising glimpses, promises never quite fulfilled, echoes that died away just as they caught your ear.” Lewis also wrote , “If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is I was made for another world…Earthly pleasures were never meant to satisfy but to arouse, to suggest, the real thing.” Heaven is the real thing that we long for. Reflection question: How can you tell that you have eternity planted in your heart? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wrecked. YET. Renewed. - "Wrecked by Fear" - Genesis 12:1-7, 10; 15:1-6; 16:1-2; 21:1; 22:1-3, 7-14 Abraham and Sarah's story is one of fear, control, and faith. Despite God's promise, they tried to take matters into their own hands—choosing heirs, using surrogates, and even lying to protect themselves. Their efforts nearly destroyed their family. Yet God remained faithful, reminding them the promise was for both Abraham and Sarah. In the end, they learned that faith—not fear or control—was the path to God's righteousness (Genesis 15:6).

How a Farmer Learned to Lead & Love in His Marriage On the outside, Jake looked like a happy-go-lucky farmer. But inside, his marriage was falling apart. Control, years of infertility struggles, alcohol abuse, and pornography created a wall between him and his wife. Even counseling couldn't break through the scar tissue of pain she carried. At one point, she said her willingness to work on the marriage was zero—she was ready to leave. Jake was out of options. Yet, in God's kindness, what seemed like the worst day became the turning point. His confession of addiction cracked open the first door to healing. What a Farmer Learned About Love in Marriage As a man who worked with horses and cattle his whole life, Jake knew how to communicate safety and calm with animals. Yet God showed him—through the story of David, Bathsheba, and Nathan's rebuke—that he wasn't doing the same for his wife. The Lord sent Nathan to David. When he came to him, he said, “There were two men in a certain town, one rich and the other poor. 2 The rich man had a very large number of sheep and cattle, 3 but the poor man had nothing except one little ewe lamb he had bought. He raised it, and it grew up with him and his children. It shared his food, drank from his cup and even slept in his arms. It was like a daughter to him. 4 “Now a traveler came to the rich man, but the rich man refrained from taking one of his own sheep or cattle to prepare a meal for the traveler who had come to him. Instead, he took the ewe lamb that belonged to the poor man and prepared it for the one who had come to him.” 5 David burned with anger against the man and said to Nathan, “As surely as the Lord lives, the man who did this must die! 6 He must pay for that lamb four times over, because he did such a thing and had no pity.” 7 Then Nathan said to David, “You are the man! This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you from the hand of Saul. 8 I gave your master's house to you, and your master's wives into your arms. I gave you all Israel and Judah. And if all this had been too little, I would have given you even more. 9 Why did you despise the word of the Lord by doing what is evil in his eyes? You struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and took his wife to be your own. You killed him with the sword of the Ammonites. 10 Now, therefore, the sword will never depart from your house, because you despised me and took the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your own.' - 2 Samuel 12:1-10 The revelation was life-changing: God entrusted him with His daughter. Loving her meant creating safety, trust, and gentleness. Jake realized that real leadership wasn't control—it was love. Learned to Lead by First Laying Down Pride When Jake finally joined the program, he discovered what he had been missing for years: a biblically based roadmap for marriage. The forgiveness modules were the breakthrough. He had carried anger for so long that it felt like part of his identity. But through forgiveness, Jake experienced freedom he had never known. Old wounds didn't need apologies to be healed—he released them to God. His wife noticed almost immediately. For the first time in years, she felt safe with him. From Walls to Sanctuary: A Marriage Transformed The changes weren't just in Jake. His home transformed. He stopped reacting in anger—even when a box fell on his head in the garage. His kids froze, waiting for the outburst that never came. That moment opened his eyes to the unsafe environment his rage had created—and the freedom God was now building in its place. His home shifted from a place of survival to a sanctuary of love. He began looking forward to coming home, slipping away with his wife for time together, and seeing joy reflected in his children. Leading with Love in Everyday Life Jake learned to lead as a husband and father, not by demanding respect but by modeling Christlike love. When walking in after a long day, he chose to bring joy instead of frustration. When tension rose, he chose reassurance over arguments. When intimacy came, it was no longer duty—it was connection, passion, and contentment. Jake also says he has never felt so sexually satisfied, not because of more encounters, but because of the depth of love in his marriage. A Legacy of Leadership The transformation didn't stop with Jake and his wife. His children are being raised in a different household than they were 12 weeks earlier. His daughters now see how a husband should love his wife. His son now has a model of godly leadership to follow. Generations are being changed because one farmer decided to learn how to lead with love in his marriage. Final Thoughts Marriage was never meant to be endured—it was designed to be a sanctuary of love, trust, and joy. Jake's story shows that no matter how high the walls are, God can dismantle them brick by brick. True leadership in marriage doesn't come from control but from gentleness, safety, and sacrificial love. And the care that you give in other areas of your life is worth investing your family as well. For any husband who feels stuck, hopeless, or unsure of how to change, remember: you can learn to lead. And when you lead with love, everything changes—your marriage, your family, and your legacy. Blessings, The Delight Your Marriage Team PS - Ready for the next step? Our team of Clarity Advisors are ready to talk with you. Call +1 332-239-2379 or visit delightyourmarriage.com/cc to take the next step of faith in healing your marriage. PPS - Here is what (another) recent grad has to say: I was blindsided and stuck in my own self righteousness. He has wronged me in many ways in the past too but the course allowed me to see my own behaviour too, and I have forgiven him for the past and I feel we can really start afresh, looking at him with new eyes again. I am very hopeful for the future and I enjoy the weekends spending time with my family. Even if we may go through bad patches in the future we now have a framework to use. Nobody told us any of this before.

Isaiah lived during one of the saddest times in the history of God's people.  He saw God's judgment unleashed on his cousins to the north - the Northern Kingdom of Israel for their stubborn and consistent unbelief.  God sent the powerful nation of Assyria to conquer their land and carry off their people. Isaiah's message to people of Jerusalem and Judah was that the same fate was coming their way, too.  They had committed many of the same sins and had angered God just the same.  Isaiah called the people to repentance and warned them that God would come down in justice against them as well.  How sad it must have been for Isaiah to record his God given prediction of the future fall of his beloved city, Jerusalem.Yet God spoke hope to his people as well - to his people in Isaiah's day and ours.   Isaiah proclaimed the mercy and compassion, the forgiveness and love that God would show to his people in bringing back the remnant from captivity and to all believers in the sending of the Messiah to be our Savior from sin.  Indeed, the meaning of Isaiah's name is true, the LORD is our salvation. We are hoping that you will join us in reading one chapter of the book of Isaiah each weekday and then in listening in on our discussion of each chapter.    If you have any questions about this series or our Most Certainly True Podcast, please reach out to Pastor Hackmann at bhackmann@gracedowntown.org.  If you'd like to learn more about Grace Lutheran Church, check out our website www.gracedowntown.org.  

Isaiah lived during one of the saddest times in the history of God's people.  He saw God's judgment unleashed on his cousins to the north - the Northern Kingdom of Israel for their stubborn and consistent unbelief.  God sent the powerful nation of Assyria to conquer their land and carry off their people. Isaiah's message to people of Jerusalem and Judah was that the same fate was coming their way, too.  They had committed many of the same sins and had angered God just the same.  Isaiah called the people to repentance and warned them that God would come down in justice against them as well.  How sad it must have been for Isaiah to record his God given prediction of the future fall of his beloved city, Jerusalem.Yet God spoke hope to his people as well - to his people in Isaiah's day and ours.   Isaiah proclaimed the mercy and compassion, the forgiveness and love that God would show to his people in bringing back the remnant from captivity and to all believers in the sending of the Messiah to be our Savior from sin.  Indeed, the meaning of Isaiah's name is true, the LORD is our salvation. We are hoping that you will join us in reading one chapter of the book of Isaiah each weekday and then in listening in on our discussion of each chapter.    If you have any questions about this series or our Most Certainly True Podcast, please reach out to Pastor Hackmann at bhackmann@gracedowntown.org.  If you'd like to learn more about Grace Lutheran Church, check out our website www.gracedowntown.org.  

Leah struggled with rejection and feeling unloved by her husband. Yet God used her pain to grow trust, resilience, and purpose in her life. When we feel overlooked or unappreciated, God can meet us in our longing and show us our worth in Him and His plan for generations to come.

Wrecked. YET. Renewed. - "Wrecked by Deception" - Genesis 3:1-13 The story of Adam and Eve shows how dysfunction began with miscommunication, deception, and blame. Though given a perfect start, they fell into sin, hiding in shame from one another and from God. Instead of truth-telling, they shifted blame. Yet God responded with both truth and grace—announcing consequences, but also promising redemption through the coming “offspring” who would crush the serpent, pointing to Christ as the Truth and the Way. God covered their shame, protected them from eternal brokenness, and even through their fractured family began the story of redemption, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus, the Son of God who came through Adam's line. Their story reveals that if God could bring renewal through such brokenness, He can bring healing and hope to any family. 

What happens when a mighty nation forgets who placed them in power? Ezekiel's lament for Egypt reveals the sobering answer. This powerful examination of Ezekiel chapters 30 and 31 unpacks how God pronounced judgment on one of history's greatest empires—and why.For over 2,500 years, Egypt had stood as a cultural and military colossus, wielding immense influence across the ancient world. Yet God declared its downfall with precise detail through His prophet Ezekiel. The specificity is remarkable: Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon would attack in 568 BC, followed by the Persians in 525 BC who would completely end the dynastic line of Pharaohs that had ruled continuously for millennia.The heart of Egypt's downfall? Pride. "Its heart is haughty in its loftiness," God declares. Through vivid imagery, Ezekiel portrays Egypt as a mighty tree whose branches once sheltered many nations but would become a place where only scavengers feed after judgment. This transformation from protector to prey illustrates the totality of divine judgment—a pattern that repeats throughout history.This message remains profoundly relevant today. God still raises up and brings down nations according to His sovereign purposes. Leaders who believe their countries exist autonomously, without accountability to divine standards, misunderstand the lessons of history. Yet there's hope in this warning—God always sends messengers before judgment, giving opportunity for repentance. The question for nations today is whether they will heed these warnings before experiencing the day of the Lord.Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a five-star rating to help your podcast provider's algorithm spread RTTB among their listeners. You can find free study and leader resources at the following link - Resource Page - Reasoning Through the Bible Please prayerfully consider supporting RTTB to help us to continue providing content and free resources. You can do that at this link - Support RTTB - Reasoning Through the Bible May God Bless you!! - Glenn and Steve

Debt can look attractive at first—like a tool to get what we want now—but if we're not careful, it can become a master that enslaves us. In this week's message, Pastor Greg unpacks what Scripture says about money, debt, and generosity.From Matthew 6:24 to Romans 13:8, we're reminded that we can't serve both God and money. Debt promises freedom but often leads to discontentment, anxiety, and missed opportunities to be generous. Yet God has a better way—using money as a tool for blessing, stewarding what He's entrusted to us, and living with contentment.Most importantly, we're reminded of the greatest debt ever paid—our sin—completely forgiven through Jesus Christ. Because we've been forgiven much, we can love much.

In the last several months, we have experienced an immense amount of loss. In the midst of that loss, it is very easy to be distracted by the things that we no longer have. Yet God wants to use that loss as a focusing tool to draw our attention to what we actually do have. He takes what we often perceive as little but what is actually abundant and uses it to bring even greater fruitfulness and blessing. Today we are going to talk about that, so don't miss out on this important Bible study.Sunday Morning - September 28th, 2025

Joseph's story begins with a dream — a prophecy that seemed impossible for a spoiled 17-year-old kid. Yet God spoke identity and purpose over Joseph long before he stepped into it. In this message called “Prophecy” - we learn how God still speaks promises over us today, and why you need a word from Him to hold onto when life puts you in the pit or the prison.Want to learn more about Radical?Instagram: @radicalchurchFacebook: www.facebook.com/radicalchurchtxWebsite: www.radicalchurch.lifeRadical Church | Sundays | 8:15AM, 9:45AM, 11:15AM & 12:55PM1151 Bunton Creek Rd Ste 1001, Kyle, TX 78640

Send us a text"Let them return to you, but don't you return to them." These powerful words from Jeremiah 15:19 form the cornerstone of a profound message about standing firm in biblical truth without compromise. When followers drift away, our natural instinct may be to chase after them, diluting the message to make it more palatable. Yet God's instruction to Jeremiah was crystal clear – stand unwavering in truth and let others return to you.This principle was embodied by faithful teachers like Voddie Baucham, John MacArthur, and R.C. Sproul – giants of the faith who never compromised biblical teaching to gain popularity or approval. Their lives demonstrate that standing firm might mean standing alone, but preserving truth ultimately matters more than gathering crowds. The temptation to compromise is especially strong when we desperately want to see loved ones embrace faith, but God's instruction remains clear – we must maintain unwavering commitment to His Word.Scripture tells us that "precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints." This preciousness comes through a process similar to refining jewels – requiring pressure to reach their most valuable state. Just as diamonds need tremendous pressure to form, believers are made precious through tribulation. We are God's treasure, His peculiar possession, the pearl of great price that Christ gave everything to purchase. With influential voices for biblical truth passing from this world, we face a critical question: Who will fill the void left by these uncompromising teachers? Being a Christian is both the most difficult and loneliest vocation anyone can have, not for the faint of heart. The challenge before us is clear – will we count the cost and stand firm in uncompromising faith, even if it means standing alone?The Balance of GrayFaith That Challenges. Conversations that Matter. Laughs included. Subscribe Now!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

John Newton’s life mirrored the parable of the prodigal son—marked by rebellion, sin, and a long journey home. Yet God’s grace broke through his mess and transformed him into the man behind Amazing Gr

Looking for Revival 1 Kings 22:1-2, 10-13; 23:25   LORD, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, LORD. Revive them in our day, in our time, make them known; in wrath remember mercy. - Habakkuk 3:2, NIV   Everyone likes 2 Chronicles 7:14 – “If my people who are called by my name…” – because it promises what we deeply crave: revival. But revival isn't just emotional fire. It's not hype. It's not a nostalgia trip back to better days. Revival is when God invades the ruins of his people's sin with his mercy, his Word, and his Spirit — and makes us new again. We're walking through the lives of three kings — Hezekiah, Jehoshaphat, and today, Josiah — who each experienced this kind of God-driven revival. These were moments when God turned the lights back on, not because the people earned it, but because he remembered mercy. In the generation after Solomon, the country split in half, north and south, and the northern kingdom of Israel moved into stark idolatry under their rebel King Jeroboam. He built an alternative Temple for idolatrous worship, set up an alternative priesthood, and listened to false prophets. Right in the middle of that, God sent a true but unnamed prophet to Israel to announce that centuries later, he would raise up a king who would put the finishing touches on the demolition of this idolatry and renew the covenant between God and his people. The prophet said his name would be Josiah.   That's the King we are looking at today. He was the last great reformer before Judah collapsed. His story isn't just inspiring — it's prophetic. His name was called out centuries before his birth, a rare mark of divine intention. God raised him up for this moment: to tear down false worship, to rediscover the Word, and to renew the covenant — a picture of how God revives his people. 1 Kings 13:1-2 “By the word of the LORD a man of God came from Judah to Bethel, as Jeroboam was standing by the altar to make an offering. 2 By the word of the LORD he cried out against the altar: “Altar, altar! This is what the LORD says: ‘A son named Josiah will be born to the house of David…That same day the man of God gave a sign: “This is the sign the LORD has declared: The altar will be split apart and the ashes on it will be poured out.” NIV   Let's look at the three movements in Josiah's story: 1. Discovering the Book 2. Repenting from Sin 3. Renewing the Covenant   2 Chronicles 7:14 is a beautiful promise from God made to Solomon when he dedicated the newly built Temple in Jerusalem. It wasn't just beautiful - it was essential. God's people would frequently stray from their faith and forsake the Lord. Yet God was also merciful, granting revival, reformation, and rescue from their enemies to his people time and time again. In the text before us today, we see the fulfillment of God's promise as King Josiah comes to the throne as an eight-year-old boy, near the end of Judah's national life, leading a country that has abandoned God, even though God never abandoned it.   I. Discovering the Book - 2 Kings 22:10-13 At age 26, Josiah's workers are cleaning out the Temple when they find something that should never have been lost — the Book of the Law. God's Word had been buried. Forgotten. Tossed aside. But once it was read aloud, everything changed. The spark of revival always starts with rediscovering God's Word. The Bible isn't magic, but when God's people stop ignoring it and start listening to it — deeply, personally, humbly — revival becomes possible. The Word cuts. It convicts. It calls. You can't have a revival without the Book. If the Word has gathered dust in your life — if it's been shoved in a drawer behind the hustle and noise — there's no revival without opening it again.   II. Repenting from Sin - 2 Kings 22:11-13 Josiah's response is immediate and raw. He tears his clothes — a public act of grief and repentance. He realizes that God's wrath is hanging over them, not because God is unjust, but because the people have rebelled. And Josiah doesn't just repent personally. He leads the entire nation in repentance. He cleanses the land of idols, smashing them to dust. He tears down altars built for false gods. He doesn't manage sin — he destroys it. Real revival always comes with repentance. That means naming our sin, turning from it, and refusing to make peace with what God has condemned. Is there something in your life that needs to be smashed, not managed? Revival isn't just singing louder — it's living differently.   III. Renewing the Covenant - 2 Kings 23:1-3, 21-22 Josiah calls the people together and publicly renews the covenant — their sacred agreement with God. He restores worship, reinstitutes the Passover, and re-centers the nation on Yahweh. This wasn't just a ceremonial act — it was national restoration. Revival isn't just about cleaning house; it's about reclaiming God's promises and re-aligning our lives under his rule. God made a covenant with his people. Even when they broke it, he didn't walk away. Josiah leads them back into it. But here's where the story takes a turn. As beautiful as Josiah's revival was, it didn't last. After his death, Judah fell back into sin. Within a few years, Babylon invaded, the Temple was destroyed, and the people were exiled. Even the best king couldn't stop judgment from coming. Josiah was a good king, a faithful king — but he wasn't the King. The King of the New Covenant Centuries later, another young man from the line of David would rise, who was also foretold by the prophets — not to repair a broken temple, but to become the Temple. Not to renew the old covenant, but to establish a new one in his blood. Jesus is the greater Josiah. Where Josiah rediscovered the Book, Jesus is the Word made flesh. Where Josiah tore his clothes in grief, Jesus was torn for us. Where Josiah renewed the covenant with sacrifice, Jesus became the sacrifice that secures the covenant forever. Josiah brought revival for a moment. Jesus brings renewal for eternity. Through his death and resurrection, Jesus offers a better covenant, sealed by his blood, written on our hearts by the Spirit, not just in a scroll or temple. He doesn't just clean the outside — he gives us new hearts, making us the temple. “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17) Conclusion: Looking for Revival Habakkuk's prayer is ours: “Repeat your deeds in our day, Lord… in wrath remember mercy.”   We don't need to manufacture revival — we need to seek the King who brings it. Let's follow Josiah's example: ● Return to the Word. ● Repent from sin. ● Renew our covenant commitment to Jesus.   Let's NOT put our hope in a political figure, not in emotional highs, not in religious nostalgia — let's put our hope in the King of the New Covenant, Jesus Christ, who revives the dead, restores the broken, and renews all things.   Response Questions: ● Where has God's Word been lost in your life? ● What sins are you managing instead of repenting from? ● Are you living under the old way, or under the new covenant with Jesus?   Let's pray for revival — not just around us, but in us — through Christ our King.

2025, September 21In a world where faith is often misunderstood—reduced to blind belief, outdated tradition, or personal opinion—this message series explores a better, deeper truth: faith is not irrational. It's reasonable, grounded in evidence, and deeply relevant.Over the past few weeks, we've explored:What faith really is: not just belief, but trust, obedience, and a new way of living—being “in the faith.”Why our faith is based on evidence: the design of the universe, the moral law within us, the historical and supernatural reliability of the Bible.How faith shapes our identity: "In the beginning, God" reminds us that we are His creation—designed for His purpose, accountable to His standard.But we've also been honest: we've all failed that standard. Sin is not just a personal issue—it's a global crisis. Yet God, our Creator and Judge, is also our Savior. He didn't leave us in our mess—Jesus stepped in to clean it up.Now, the call is clear: Own the mess. Confess the sin. Receive the grace. And live as someone who truly belongs to God.

This week's message tackled one of the hardest questions of faith: If God is in control, why is there evil in the world? From Genesis to the words of Jesus, we explored how evil entered through human rebellion, how Satan still works to deceive, and how suffering and brokenness reveal our need for Christ. Yet God promises that evil will not have the final word—He can redeem what is meant for harm and ultimately triumphs through Jesus' death and resurrection. In the face of darkness, we are called to endure, trust, and overcome evil with good.

Jonah 1:5-10 - God often sends storms into our lives not simply to punish, but to awaken us, redirect us, and draw us back into His purposes. Jonah tried to run away, avoided facing God's call, and in doing so created a bigger problem—not just for himself, but for others around him. Yet God's purposes persist, and even through disobedience, He pursues, disciplines, invites us to “arise,” repent, and take up what He has for us.

Jonah 1:5-10 - God often sends storms into our lives not simply to punish, but to awaken us, redirect us, and draw us back into His purposes. Jonah tried to run away, avoided facing God's call, and in doing so created a bigger problem—not just for himself, but for others around him. Yet God's purposes persist, and even through disobedience, He pursues, disciplines, invites us to “arise,” repent, and take up what He has for us.

Today's Promise: Joshua 1:9 Imagine stepping into the shoes of a legendary leader, knowing that the challenges ahead are bigger than anything you've faced. That was Joshua—taking over for Moses, leading God's people into the Promised Land, and facing enemies far stronger and mightier than himself. Can you feel the pressure? The fear? The doubt? Yet God's message to Joshua was simple—and repeated three times in just a few verses: “Be strong. Take courage.”Words that weren't just for him—they're for you and me today. In a world filled with fear, uncertainty, and worry, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But this episode reminds us that we are not walking alone. God is with us, guiding us, and calling us to step forward boldly, no matter the giants in our path. Tune in and discover the courage God wants to give you today.

The world tells us our validation is in our grades, our success, our gifts, our talents, our looks and so many other things. Yet God tells us it's in One and Only place. And I love that Tracy has made it her mission, that started with her own two daughters, to remind us of where our identity really lies. Tracy Harper is a speaker, teacher, and Christian author with over twenty years of experience mentoring young adults through campus ministry. From the East Coast to Hawaii, her journey has taken her across the country—and through countless conversations with college students navigating faith, identity, and emotional overwhelm.Tracy holds a degree in Secondary Education/English from Towson University and completed Cru's Institute of Biblical Studies. She now lives in Maryland with her husband and three daughters, savoring life by the water with a good book and a great cup of coffee. Tracy helps young Christian women break free from people-pleasing and follow the Holy Spirit with confidence.Follow her @TracyHarperWritesSign up to receive free devotions that help women reset their relationship with God, self, and others at www.tracyharperwrites.comCheck out her debut book, From Him, Not Them: A Young Woman's Guide to Relying on God for Validation, Identity, and Guidance at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F66DS4RL

Acts 17:27 GNTHe did this so that they would look for him, and perhaps find him as they felt around for him. Yet God is actually not far from any one of us.

The Fathers in the Evergetinos remind us that the measure of our discipleship is often revealed in how we respond to insult and injury. The world teaches us to defend ourselves, to demand justice, to take vengeance so as not to appear weak. But the Gospel calls us to something altogether different, something that cuts against every instinct of pride: to bear wrongs patiently, to forgive from the heart, and to entrust judgment to God. Abba Cassian tells us that meekness is not merely restraining the tongue, but cleansing the heart itself from the remembrance of wrongs. Outward silence while inwardly replaying offenses is no victory. Unless the root of anger is excised, hatred and envy grow unseen. I know this in myself — how quickly I replay words spoken against me, how easily I justify my resentment. Yet God sees these thoughts, hidden to others, as clearly as if they were deeds. The elders of the desert show us another way. Abba Sisoes shocks a brother out of his thirst for revenge by praying that, since the man insists on avenging himself, God need no longer care for him. Abba Silouan alters the Lord's Prayer to expose the truth of the brother's heart: “forgive us not our debts, as we forgive not our debtors.” Their teaching is sharp, but it leaves no room for illusion. If I ask God for mercy, I must extend mercy to my brother, or else my prayer condemns me. The Fathers press us to look at Christ Himself. He endured insult without anger, was silent under reviling, forgave those who crucified Him, and laid down His life for those who sinned against Him. When I see how easily I take offense, how quickly I lash out or withdraw, I realize how little I resemble Him. And yet the call is clear: to follow Christ is to walk His path of forbearance, not simply to admire it from a distance. This is where the path of the Fathers collides with the way of the world. To the secular mind, insult must be answered, wrong must be repaid, and forgiveness is weakness. But in Christ's kingdom, insult becomes an opportunity to share in His meekness, wrongs become the occasion to enter His patience, and forgiveness becomes our share in His Cross. And so I am left with a choice, not abstract but daily, often in small things: Will I bear insult with humility, or will I cling to pride? Will I entrust myself to God's justice, or will I grasp for my own? The Fathers tell me plainly: if I cannot endure the smallest slights, how will I endure greater trials? If I cannot forgive the neighbor who wounds me in words, how can I hope to be known by Christ, who forgave even His executioners? The divine ethos is stark. To love those who hate me. To pray for those who grieve me. To forbear without resentment. To entrust vengeance to God. This is not optional; it is the very mark of one who has died and risen with Christ. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:12:59 Bob Čihák, AZ: P. 281 B 00:14:30 Forrest Cavalier: https://biblehub.com/greek/3954.htm  Translated as Familiarity in Hypothesis 34 book 2, p266 00:19:11 Bob Čihák, AZ: P. 281 B 00:40:05 Bob Čihák, AZ: P. 283 A 00:50:41 Andrew Zakhari: It is amazing how what we would say to each other changes dramatically when we consider directing those same words to God. Prayer exposes our sin and converts us. 01:04:55 Kate : Would the Fathers take a pacifist position?  And would they not accept the Catholic just-war theory? 01:06:37 Catherine Opie: I am always amazed at how apt these readings are. I always get exactly what I need for whatever the inner struggle or circumstance is that is current for me or around me generally as a societal or news event. I have been attacked physically and, to my surprise, my instinct was to fight back like a wild animal. How do we learn to obstruct that survival instinct we have? 01:15:00 Maureen Cunningham: Thank you Blessing 01:15:19 Andrew Adams: Thanks be to God! Thank you, Father! 01:15:21 Rebecca Thérèse: Thank you☺️ 01:15:27 Jennifer Dantchev: Thank you! 01:15:35 Catherine Opie: God bless

Transitions often bring a mix of joy and grief. When we release something precious—a child leaving home, a season ending, or a chapter closing—it’s natural to feel empty or unsettled. Yet God, in His compassion, promises new mercies every morning and fresh blessings for every season. In today’s prayer devotional, Keri Eichberger reflects on the bittersweet milestone of sending her son off to college and invites us to redirect our hearts toward God’s unfailing love. Even when grief lingers, His compassions never fail, and His unfailing love leads us into a future filled with purpose and joy. Main Takeaways Transition often brings loss, but it also ushers in new opportunities for growth and joy. God’s mercies are new every morning—He continually provides compassion, strength, and blessing. Looking forward in faith helps us release the past while embracing the future God has prepared. Cherished memories remain gifts of joy even as God leads us into new seasons. Bible Verse References Lamentations 3:32 – Though He brings grief, He will show compassion. Lamentations 3:22-23 – His compassions are new every morning. Psalm 30:5 – Weeping may stay for the night, but joy comes in the morning. Calls to Action (CTAs) Subscribe to Your Daily Prayer for daily encouragement rooted in God’s Word. Share this episode with a friend or parent walking through a season of transition. Leave a review to help others discover hope through Scripture-based prayer. Resources & Related Articles 5 Prayers for Letting Go and Trusting God – Crosswalk.com Finding Joy in Life’s Transitions – iBelieve.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.