Podcasts about yet scripture

Trusting His Heart #RTTBROS #Nightlight Trusting His Heart #RTTBROS #Nightlight Trusting His Heart: How Understanding God's Love Deepens Our Faith"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8 (KJV)Have you ever found yourself questioning God's presence in difficult circumstances? I was doing a devotion with my family yesterday, and as I went through verses about who we are in Christ, the Holy Spirit showed me something profound: our ability to have genuine faith is directly connected to our understanding of God's love. When life's challenges arise—whether illness, financial hardship, or relationship struggles—our trust often wavers, not because God has abandoned us, but because we struggle to believe He truly has our best interests at heart.The depth of God's love extends far beyond our human comprehension. In the Old Testament, the concept of "loving kindness" reveals God's consistent care for His people, even when they strayed. Similarly, the New Testament's "agape" love demonstrates a profound commitment—what I'd define simply as God looking out for our best interest. This divine love was perfectly displayed when Christ willingly suffered on the cross, not because we deserved it, but because God saw something worth redeeming in us.Our faith journey often resembles the Israelites' pattern in Scripture. When they turned from God, He allowed discipline in their lives but always sent prophets to guide them back. When they cried out from bondage, He responded with grace and deliverance. This cycle repeatedly demonstrates that even when circumstances seem bleak, God remains faithful. As I meditate on these biblical accounts, I begin to recognize this same pattern of faithfulness in my own life.The world frequently questions how a loving God could permit suffering. This challenging question has no simple answer, but as believers, we can rest in the truth that God does not author evil. Rather, as Romans 8:28 assures us, He works all things—even painful experiences—together for good. I'm reminded of Corrie ten Boom, who discovered God's love even in a concentration camp. She learned that God's love extends even to places as horrible as that. We too can witness His presence in our darkest moments when we maintain faith in His character and promises.My ability to trust God grows stronger as I experience His faithfulness firsthand. Each time I witness Him working through difficult circumstances—providing unexpected resources, opening doors, or bringing comfort in grief—my confidence in His love deepens. When I read Scripture and observe how God consistently demonstrated care for His people, I develop the assurance that He is equally devoted to me today, regardless of external evidence.For many of us, including myself at times, faith struggles stem from uncertainty about God's intentions. We question whether He truly wants what's best for us when our prayers seem unanswered or our circumstances remain unchanged. I've known different people, and I've been there in my own life, struggling with faith because I did not trust that God truly was working things to my best interest. Yet Scripture consistently reveals that God's definition of "best" often differs from our own. His perspective encompasses eternity, while ours remains limited to the present.Today, I encourage you to take time to meditate specifically on God's love. Beyond the familiar John 3:16, explore passages that speak of being "rooted and grounded in love" and knowing Christ's love that "passeth knowledge." As you reflect on these truths, allow them to transform your faith. Remember that we did nothing to recommend ourselves to God; He chose to love us because of who He is, not because of anything within ourselves. As I heard a preacher say yesterday on the radio, we certainly did nothing to recommend us to God for him to love us..#FaithFoundedInLove #GodsPlanInPain #VictoriousThroughTrust

This devotion on Job 24:12-15 wrestles with a deep and painful question: Why does evil persist? Job observes that suffering continues, the wicked seem to act without consequence, and darkness conceals acts of sin.Yet Scripture reminds us that God is neither absent nor indifferent. Evil's temporary success is not its ultimate fate. Christ is the Light that exposes and overcomes darkness (John 1:5).

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. — Psalm 90:12 At times in the past I have been consumed by the busyness of life. And I am thankful that Psalm 90:12 has often turned me around to see the wisdom of stewarding the time God that gives us. We need to keep time in perspective so that we recognize the brevity of life and the eternal significance of our actions. In our fast-paced world, it's easy to prioritize time-sensitive pursuits over eternal truths. Yet Scripture calls us to seek wisdom in how we use our time, investing in relationships, service, and spiritual growth. Time is a precious gift from God, meant to be used purposefully and intentionally. When we “number our days,” we align our priorities with God's kingdom purposes. We learn to value moments of rest, reflection, and worship, knowing that our ultimate goal is to honor God in all we do. Keeping time in perspective has helped to deepen my relationship with God and to enrich my interactions with others. It has taught me to cherish each day as an opportunity to glorify God and to serve others, shining the light of his kingdom. If you are overwhelmed by the demands of time, pause and seek God's guidance. Ask him to help you prioritize your life according to his will and to grant you wisdom in managing your time effectively. Spirit of God, guide us in stewarding our time wisely. Teach us to seek your wisdom in all our endeavors. May we use each moment to honor you and to advance your kingdom. Amen.

This devotion on Job 21:7-9 wrestles with an age-old question: Why do the wicked prosper while the righteous suffer? Job rejects simplistic explanations and instead acknowledges a difficult reality—many who reject God still enjoy wealth, power, and security.Yet Scripture provides a greater perspective:✔️ Worldly success is not a sign of divine favor (Luke 16:15).✔️ God's justice operates on an eternal timeline (Psalm 37:2).✔️ Suffering refines faith and leads to deeper trust (2 Corinthians 4:17).✔️ Christ's suffering on the cross shows that God's justice is often beyond human understanding.Though injustice may seem to prevail, God's justice is never denied—only delayed. In the end, the righteous will inherit eternal glory, while the wicked's prosperity fades.

Pastor Josh concludes our "ACTS of Prayer" series with a powerful message on the importance of bringing our needs to God. While we readily pray for others, we often hesitate to ask for help ourselves—whether out of guilt, doubt, or fear of seeming selfish. Yet Scripture assures us that God welcomes our prayers and invites us to come to Him daily, specifically, and confidently. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live

Would you look directly at the sun? Only if you wanted to burn your retinas and have permanent blind spots. Would you like to look directly at God? It sounds wonderful in theory. Yet Scripture describes God's glory as being brighter than the sun. Moreover, one component of God's glory is his holiness. Being holy doesn't just mean God loves good; he also hates evil with burning intensity. And we sin every day. No wonder the Lord once told Moses, “No one may see me and live” (Exodus 33:20). Sinners would die of fear if they saw God in all his holy glory. So, how then can we possibly know God? How can we draw near to him without dying of terror? In our final epiphany moment of this season, God explains. God hides his glory to reveal himself. To carry out his good and glorious work of salvation, Jesus hid his glory and went to the cross. To allow sinners to stare at his glory without fear or harm, God hides it in the gospel. In the gospel, we see the glory of Christ's love, power, and salvation. The reality is that when God's glory is hidden, it is most on display.

Would you look directly at the sun? Only if you wanted to burn your retinas and have permanent blind spots. Would you like to look directly at God? It sounds wonderful in theory. Yet Scripture describes God's glory as being brighter than the sun. Moreover, one component of God's glory is his holiness. Being holy doesn't just mean God loves good; he also hates evil with burning intensity. And we sin every day. No wonder the Lord once told Moses, “No one may see me and live” (Exodus 33:20). Sinners would die of fear if they saw God in all his holy glory.So, how then can we possibly know God? How can we draw near to him without dying of terror? In our final epiphany moment of this season, God explains. God hides his glory in order to reveal himself. To carry out his good and glorious work of salvation, Jesus hid his glory and went to the cross. To allow sinners to stare at his glory without fear or harm, God hides it in the gospel. In the gospel, we see the glory of Christ's love, power, and salvation. The reality is that when God's glory is hidden, it is most on display.

Celebration can often be the last thing the world thinks about Christians. Yet Scripture if full of the expression of joy and stories of parties and banquets. When we celebrate we are witnesses to all that heaven will be. From Psalm 16.

6 Guidelines: Mind Your Emotions #RTTBROS #Nightlight Mind Your Emotions James 1:2-3 - "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience." In times of trouble, emotions can overwhelm reason like storm waves crashing over a ship's deck. Fear whispers defeat, anxiety paints worst-case scenarios, and despair clouds our vision of God's faithfulness. Yet Scripture teaches in Philippians 4:6-7, "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Even Jesus, facing the cross, demonstrated mastery over emotions through submission to the Father's will. Like Him, we must acknowledge our feelings while not letting them dictate our actions. "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7). Prayer: Father, when troubles come, help us anchor our emotions in thy unchanging truth. Grant us thy peace that surpasses understanding. In Jesus' name, Amen. Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out. https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Word Wounds #RTTBROS #Nightlight When Words Wound: The Sacred Trust of Speech "Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." - Proverbs 18:21 #WatchYourWords #GodlyConversation #SpiritualGrowth In the company of friends, our words flow freely. Yet Scripture warns us that our most casual conversations carry eternal weight. Just as a tiny rudder steers a mighty ship, our tongue directs the course of our relationships and testimony. Consider James's sobering observation: "The tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!" (James 3:5). How many friendships have burned because of careless words? How many testimonies have been tarnished by thoughtless speech? Biblical examples show us the power of words among friends: - Job's friends turned comfort into condemnation - Peter's words of denial came among acquaintances - Paul and Barnabas separated over sharp words Yet we also see redemptive friendship conversations: - Jonathan's words strengthened David in God (1 Samuel 23:16) - Priscilla and Aquila privately guided Apollos (Acts 18:26) - Paul commended his friends by name in his letters God's Standards for Speech: 1. "Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt" (Colossians 4:6) 2. "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth" (Ephesians 4:29) 3. "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver" (Proverbs 25:11) Prayer Lord, set a watch before my mouth and keep the door of my lips. Help me remember that my words can either heal or harm, build up or tear down. Make me mindful of my speech, especially among those who trust me most. In Jesus' name, Amen. Today's Challenge: Before speaking today: - Count to three - Ask: "Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?" - Consider: "Would Jesus say this?" - Remember: Friends deserve our best words, not our unfiltered thoughts Remember: The words we speak to friends today become the memories they carry tomorrow. Let them be worthy of Christ's name we bear. Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out. https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Hello there, I'm Jonathan Gouthier, your host for the Faith First Podcast, and the Associate Pastor at First Church here in Torrington, CT. Our world has become very pluralistic in its thoughts about God. They've even stated that all roads lead to the same God. Yet Scripture tells us something different. We are so glad you've joined us for today's episode where I sit down with our Lead Pastor Steve Darr to discuss “No Other God”. Hey Steve, welcome.In this episode you'll discover:Why we are not to have any idolsWhat a modern-day idol isWhy we need to embrace Jesus + Nothing = EverythingHow deception beginsWhat to do with new age practicesThe God of the Bible, Yahweh, is the great and only I AM. Why would you want to worship anything else? If you have Him, you have everything. Without Him, you have nothing that matters or lasts. Therefore we must completely surrender to Him and worship Him.If you've just found out about the Faith First Podcast, we are so glad you joined us for this episode and we encourage you to hit the notification bell below to be alerted to when the next episode launches. Until then, recognize the One True God faith first.

Many Christians don't feel comfortable talking with other people about politics. Because politics can be so divisive, our tendency is to avoid it altogether. Yet Scripture calls us to be a positive influence on our world. How can we reconcile this tension? That's our topic now, on Foreshadows Report. Learn more about Steve and his books at https://SteveMillerResources.comProduced by Unmutable™

The only thing the lost sinner does to enter the Kingdom of God is to repent. This means that the unbelieving sinner, in the moment of their faith in Christ, turns from sin and self and places their faith in Jesus Christ as Lord. That's it. That's their part. God does all of the rest. We are simply commanded to repent. For many Christians, they think little of any repentance after being saved. Yet Scripture reveals that those who are truly saved will live ongoing in hearts postured with repentance. This Truth Shot explores what place repentance plays in the life of a Jesus-follower. The bottom line question remains, “Are we repenting of sin as Christians in the manner that God's Word prescribes?

The only thing the lost sinner does to enter the Kingdom of God is to repent. This means that the unbelieving sinner, in the moment of their faith in Christ, turns from sin and self and places their faith in Jesus Christ as Lord. That's it. That's their part. God does all of the rest. We are simply commanded to repent. For many Christians, they think little of any repentance after being saved. Yet Scripture reveals that those who are truly saved will live ongoing in hearts postured with repentance. This Truth Shot explores what place repentance plays in the life of a Jesus-follower. The bottom line question remains, “Are we repenting of sin as Christians in the manner that God's Word prescribes?

In our society, self-confidence reigns as the supreme virtue. Yet Scripture calls us to prefer the exaltation of others above ourselves. Today, R.C. Sproul continues his study of biblical love, showing that to love is to be humble. Get 'Keeping in Step with the Spirit' and 'Our Great Salvation' for Your Gift of Any Amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/3429/donate Meet Today's Teacher: R.C. Sproul (1939-2017) was known for his ability to winsomely and clearly communicate deep, practical truths from God's Word. He 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 ministry engagement for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, host of the Ask Ligonier podcast, and a graduate of Presbyterian Theological College in Melbourne, Australia. Nathan joined Ligonier in 2012 and lives in Central Florida with his wife and four children. Don't forget to make RenewingYourMind.org your home for daily in-depth Bible study and Christian resources. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Do you think following Christ means that we become wimpy men who are a pushover? That's not the way Christ was! Yet Scripture says that Christ was gentle, and it tells us if we are to be above reproach we are to be gentle men. Looks like we better find out what it means.

Notes for this message:https://tinyurl.com/KeepGoingSteadfast Why is it that doing what's right feels like an uphill battle, demanding relentless determination and grit to uphold our biblical convictions? Yet Scripture makes it clear: surrendering our principles is NEVER the right choice. #KeepGoing #SteadfastDetermination #Faithfulness #UpholdingConvictions #Perseverance #BiblicalValues #StayStrong #Endurance #NeverSurrender #RelentlessFaith #TrueCommitment #ResoluteSpirit #UnwaveringBelief #StayFaithful #PressOn #OvercomeTemptation #StandFirm #UnyieldingResolve #StayCommitted #CourageousFaith

Often we pray for the thing we want God to do, not the wisdom we need to do it. Yet Scripture consistently shows that God is generous in wisdom. When we learn to pray for wisdom, it unlocks a new path where God involves us in His plans.   Title: Wisdom Series: Prayer Life Text: 1 Kings 3 Speaker: Josh Branham

Many church-planting or outreach models we see around us require lots of financial backing to implement.  Yet Scripture shows us a different approach is possible.  In this episode, Cynthia talks about how to make disciples and see them multiply without it costing you lots of money. 

Few issues are as misunderstood as the relationship of God's sovereignty to the sinfulness of men and demons. There are many dangers in discussing this topic because of how easily it can be misunderstood. Yet Scripture is not unclear about this issue and there are several important applications points that we all should apply to our lives by God's grace. You can watch this message here.

Your FeetThis week, we are focusing in on the physical humanness of Jesus – Jesus the walking, talking image of the invisible God. This human who had the very fullness of God in him.  We look at Jesus, and we get our clearest view of God.Yesterday, we thought about the hands of Jesus, hands that reached out to heal, protect, welcome, love – hands that ultimately were nailed to a cross.  Today, feet!Feet are among the least glamorous parts of the body I guess! We often think of them as dirty or smelly. Yet Scripture talks about feet being beautiful –  ‘How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!” Isaiah 52

If I could choose a phrase to remind myself of every single day, it would be “I am a servant of all.” Everywhere I turn, I find people who are searching for popularity, success in a career, or happiness through financial gain. They're trying to appeal to a bigger audience, or gain the most likes on their social media accounts. It seems that the focus is always about promoting “me.” Yet Scripture states the exact opposite: “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant, and whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted” (Matt. 23:11-12). You see, Jesus is all about serving others. He is all about putting your own wants, desires, or needs last, while putting someone else's before yourself. It's a beautiful thing when you see someone who is focused on uplifting Jesus through a life of genuine servanthood. It might be a mother doing the mundane tasks everyday, while pouring herself into raising her children to be more like Jesus. It might be a father who sacrifices his all to provide for his family and daily bring them together in prayer and family Bible study. It might be the friend who takes the time to send encouragement through a hug, or by lifting you up in prayer — not for the praise of others, but just because they are reflecting Jesus. It might be the husband or wife who are dedicated to each other as they constantly look for ways to serve. As a little self check in my own life, I ask myself these questions: •  Am I easily discouraged when it seems no one notices the day-to-day things that I achieve? •  Are there tasks too mundane for me? •  Am I actively looking and pursuing ways to serve those closest to me — or those who could never repay?Jesus was the greatest example of this, and more than any other thing, this is what I want my husband and children to see in me, because we are never more like Jesus than when we are serving Him or others.Love, Erin#Podcast #SpeakLife #Reminder #Daily #Prayer #Encouragement #Serve #Christian #Jesus

In the midst of suffering, we often feel spiritually parched. We wonder if God is with us in this barren land or if He is simply a mirage. Yet Scripture shows us that no matter where God’s people find themselves—in battle or prison, in valley or wilderness—one thing is true: God is faithful. On Friday's Mornings with Eric and Brigitte, pediatric ER doctor and founder of Living With Power Ministries, Lina AbuJamra joins us to talk about her new 6-week interactive video-based Bible study of God’s faithfulness during difficult times that invites you to experience a fresh move of God in your life even in spiritual deserts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scripture: Hebrews 13:17-13:17 Willing obedience and submission to church leaders are not typically our natural responses. Our flesh would much rather do things our own way. Yet Scripture tells us that when we respond obediently to church leadership, it's for everyone's good.

Reclaiming Christmas, Week 4: Love All The culture we live in today is enamored with images, and typically those of celebrities: the famous, the flashy, the latest and the greatest. Yet Scripture paints a different picture. In fact, the birth story of the Messiah sets the tone for how Christians would see themselves and others. The nativity of Jesus was not first announced in palace courts for royalty to hear. Rather, it was declared to shepherds in a field. This small detail has big implications for our lives! It exemplifies that we are to love all people this Christmas season and beyond. Speaker: Adam Mashni, 707 High School Ministry Pastor

Reclaiming Christmas, Week 4: Love All The culture we live in today is enamored with images, and typically those of celebrities: the famous, the flashy, the latest and the greatest. Yet Scripture paints a different picture. In fact, the birth story of the Messiah sets the tone for how Christians would see themselves and others. The nativity of Jesus was not first announced in palace courts for royalty to hear. Rather, it was declared to shepherds in a field. This small detail has big implications for our lives! It exemplifies that we are to love all people this Christmas season and beyond. Speaker: Adam Mashni, 707 High School Ministry Pastor

Several days ago, in our broadcast we began talking about a biblical worldview and what that looks like. There are various surveys and so forth that have asked people a few questions to see if they have a biblical worldview. That is usually a very truncated idea of what a biblical worldview is. We are looking at it in more detail. I believe that to have a worldview that is in line with Scripture there are certain cardinal, non-negotiable teachings and understandings that must be ours. We began by looking at Scripture and our view of God's Word as being inspired, inherent, infallible, and the sufficient Word of God. Then we began to talk about God Himself. You cannot have a biblical worldview and have a wrong view of God. Scripture tells us what God is like. That is what we are looking at. Of course, we are only focusing on a few things in particular. We could go on for weeks upon weeks talking about God and all that Scripture says about Him, but we are picking out some essentials. These are things that certainly cannot be negotiated beyond. One of those things is holiness. God is holy. I don't think it is a good idea to say that one attribute of God is more important or more essential than another. Some would look at God and say God is love and that is His essence and highest attribute. Or they may pick a different one. Some would go to holiness and say that holiness is the highest attribute of God. I think we have to be careful there and not parcel God up in that way. He is not like us. All the attributes of God, though we think of them as main characteristics, are part of who God is in essence, not just characteristics. All of these are vital to understanding Him. Some have looked to holiness as the key that unlocks all of them. If God is not holy, then we have a real problem with who God is. That does not mean holiness is the highest of all attributes, it is just part of His nature. It is who God is. Yet Scripture talks so often about His holiness. In Isaiah 6:3, remember Isaiah is in the temple of the Lord and the Lord gives him a vision of the essence of Himself, the greatness of Himself. The angels are there and are flying around the Lord's throne that Isaiah gets to witness, and the angels cry out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty.” It's the only place in the Old Testament when any of His attributes are spoken of three times back-to-back. The only place where the world “holy” is used like that, three times back-to-back. Then we come to the New Testament, and we have a worship scene in heaven with the angels. John is witnessing this one in Revelation 4:8, it says, “And the four living creatures, each one of them having six wings, are full of eyes around and within; and day and night they do not cease to say, ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is to come.'” One other time in Scripture here we have this worship of God as being holy. Once again, it is the angels saying three times, “holy, holy, holy.” This is such a vital part of who God is. It really nails down His holiness.

Scripture emphasizes there is just one Spirit. Paul, for example, wrote, “There is one body and one Spirit.”[1] Yet Scripture also speaks of the Spirit of God (the Father), the Spirit of Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Moreover, each Spirit is said to be in believers. 1 Corinthians 3:16 (NASB) Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 1 Corinthians 6:19 (NASB) Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? Galatians 4:6 (NASB) Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” How is this possible if there is only one Spirit? The answer is found when we understand just who or, more accurately, what the Spirit is. https://onegodworship.com/the-spirit-of-christ-and-the-spirit-of-god/

In today's podcast we want to look at a few questions. How do I be content in my singleness? Is being married better than being single or is being single better than being married? Singleness for many Christians is often a tough and lonely season. And for married Christians, it's oftentimes hard to know how to encourage your single brother or sister in Christ. Yet Scripture is clear that being single is not a defect, nor is marriage a magical cure for being discontent. And for our word of the day, we discuss a word about using words in a rather annoying way... Meta, we know.

In this episode of "In the Word, On the Go," Joel Muddamalle, Director of Theology and Ministry Products at Proverbs 31 Ministries, discusses how we see God's love and goodness even in suffering and judgment. Joel says, "In moments of disappointment, we tend to look inward. Yet Scripture reminds us that the Story is not primarily about us, but about Jesus." Special Guest: Joel Muddamalle.

It’s all too easy for Christians and churches to seek to serve God apart from the power of his Spirit. Yet Scripture teaches us that the Spirit is the One who reveals God’s truth and empowers God’s people. In this message from 1 Corinthians 2:1–16, David Platt reminds us that our only hope of believing, obeying, and proclaiming God’s Word comes through the power of God’s Spirit. That’s why our lives and our churches should be marked by desperate prayer for the Spirit’s help.

Many Christian leaders claim that the Bible doesn't really tell us all that much about how civil government should be operated. Yet Scripture is full of direction both for civil rulers and citizens about the limits of civil government. And about how we are to worship no one other than God.

The risen Jesus now lives in us, expressing Himself through each of us to the world. Get this: you carry the image of your Creator. We know that. The Bible tells us everyone was created in God's image. That's why we see all human life as sacred. A few posts ago I mentioned that Jesus is the image of God. If you want to know what God is like, well… you look at Jesus. He reveals God completely. As odd as it sounds, though, the Bible insists over and over that you actually reveal what Jesus is like. I know. Tough call. We know what we're really like. Yet Scripture argues this: To encounter what Him and see what He is like, people only need to encounter you. That's right. You. You don't need to go get reconnected to a source. You don't need to get “re-filled.” You are full. And once you understand that, it makes all the difference in the world. Listen in...

It can be tempting sometimes to speak the truth about God's Word but discount the need to do it with love. Yet Scripture is clear that Christians must embody love and grace. How do we do it? Pastor John Crotts joins me to talk about it and his book, "Graciousness: Tempering Truth With Love." Plus: June Hunt from Hope for the Heart brings a biblical perspective to bear on the issue of domestic violence and what the Lord is really trying to teach us in Ephesians 5. That and more on Tuesday's JANET MEFFERD TODAY.

We live in a world that is all about strength and that tries to extend our days on this earth as long as possible. Yet Scripture, as usual, paints a different picture of humanity and we are told that we are dusty people. We are just a chronic disease, a tragic accident, or an injury away from being reminded of the reality of our frailty. The beauty of it all is that God knows us better than we know ourselves and He remembers what we are like because He is the one who made us. In response to our condition, we will see that God is gracious, merciful, and forgiving. He also has provided us a way to become a heavenly people through His Son, our Savior the Lord Jesus Christ. To come prepared for the sermon take time this week to read and to meditate upon Psalm 103, Genesis 2:7, Exodus 34:5-7, 1 Corinthians 15:45-49, Philippians 3:21, and Heidelberg Question 11. As we gather this first Sunday after Christmas Day, we will join our hearts in song, singing the Hymn of Praise “Angels We Have Heard On High”, the Acclamation of Praise “Good Christian Men, Rejoice”, and the Hymn of Response “Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me.” Let us come to worship this Sunday prepared to hear God’s Word, to receive it in faith, to love and treasure it in our hearts, and to practice it in our lives that we may continue to glorify and enjoy Him!

Deeper Christian Podcast • Episode 131 Looking around modern Christianity, it appears more and more believers are engrossed with darkness or are allowing shadows of sin to invade their hearts. Yet Scripture makes it clear that while we may be in the world, we are not to be of the world.   If you've ever found yourself in a room while the sun is setting, you've probably noticed that our eyes adjust to the dimming light and soon find ourselves sitting in shadows. Without intentionally realizing it, we've found ourselves in the dark. So too, our soul can allow shadows of sin (or full out darkness of perverseness) and we can easily justify why its there, for the downward slope was gradual and marked by small decisions of compromise. But God has freed us from the domain of darkness and brought us into the Kingdom of His dear Son – the One Who is light itself! In this episode, we examine this concept and are exhorted to not allow any shadows of darkness within our lives but rather to freshly allow the Spirit of God to examine and convict any area so we can walk in the light and behave differently than the world. Yes, we are in the world, but the world is not to be within us. Download the shownotes for this episode and get other Christ-centered teaching and resources at: https://deeperchristian.com/131/ (deeperChristian.com/131/) Support this podcast

Amazing message from Pastor Craig this past Sunday, dealing with the not-so-fun topic of grief. It is a subject that is often avoided by the Church, especially in American culture. Yet Scripture has much to say regarding its inevitability and its value in our lives. Have a listen or re-listen to this important message.

Dr. Mark Rutland joins Rabbi Jonathan Bernis for a fascinating, unfiltered look at the real David of the Bible. The famous king of Israel lived an adventuresome, controversial – and sometimes gritty – life. Yet Scripture calls him a man after God's own heart, and his life reveals the redemptive power of God. Join us for an eye-opening look at this conflicted shepherd boy turned king, as Dr. Rutland discusses his recent book, David the Great – Deconstructing the Man After God's Own Heart.

This podcast will help you get ready to face the inevitable unpleasant things that will happen in your life -- things like trouble, suffering, sickness, and death -- the death of people you love and your own death. The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 9:5: “For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten.” The featured quote for this episode is from H.P. Lovecraft. He said, "That is not dead which can eternal lie,And with strange aeons even death may die." Our topic for today is titled "The Individual, the Church, and the Ars Moriendi (the Art of Dying), Part 3" from the book, "The Art of Dying: Living Fully into the Life to Come" by Rob Moll. --- Reforming the Art of Dying In centuries gone by, Christians acknowledged that the dying process is a deeply spiritual event. Today, those who have been able to be present at the death of a loved one often agree, describing it as a spiritual experience. Yet Scripture tells us very little about the life to come or what precisely Jesus meant when he promised to come to take us to himself. As a result, anxiety is natural and common among Christians. Even though the Bible assures us of our destiny, getting there can be frightening. A hospice patient once told me about his ailments: a bad heart and colon cancer. "And now they've got me in hospice," he said with obvious concern. "So I don't know what's next." He looked at me plaintively, but it was clear we both knew what was next. The thought of his death was visibly worrisome to him. He then asked me to pray for him. "That's the best thing, you know!" he said. A lifelong, active Christian who said he looked forward to being in heaven, this patient was still concerned about the process of dying. The same was true even for those medieval Christians who learned the “ars moriendi.” Though the deathbed scene, when peaceful, comforted onlookers, it was not always serene. In fact, "horror and fear are the emotions most commonly associated with late medieval perceptions of death and the life everlasting," writes Eamon Duffy in “The Stripping of the Altars,” "and preachers, dramatists, and moralists did not hesitate to employ terror.. to stir their audiences to penitence and good works." ...

When we are confronted with the enigma of evil rattling our world, we want answers. But the Bible is not so forthcoming. Yet Scripture is not entirely silent about what God is doing about evil in his world. Do we have ears to hear and faith to believe? Check out what Fr. Maney has to say about it all and see what you think. Lectionary texts for today are Job 38.1-7, 34-41; Psalm 104.1-9, 24, 35c; Hebrews 5.1-10; Mark 10.35-45.

Most folks only WISH their lives could brim with joy, hope, and love each day. Jesus' promise of "life to the full" (John 10:10) seems overblown at times... wishful thinking when we're going through a spiritual dry spell. Yet Scripture says God designed us to "overflow" with His Spirit-- to gush "rivers of living water" that actually spill over into the lives around us. Does your spiritual life gush? Or does it suck? How do we experience the kind of joy and love God has in mind? It starts with a counterintuitive truth-- that it's not about you. It's about God first. And others second. God fills you up with His love... so it can flow out of you into the lives of strangers, friends, your community and world. Listen in as Pastor Tim shares the vision for "Outflow"-- our summer series designed to change our lives and our world. www.liquidchurch.com pastortim@liquidchurch.com