902 Church Podcast: Recent Episodes
902 Church
This week we'll be encouraged to shift from finding identity and value in the words and opinions of others, and toward the truth of what God thinks and says about who we are!
SM is our student ministry for grades 6 - 12. We meet every Wednesday from 6:30 - 8:15p
This week we'll be encouraged not to let our identity be found in what we can do or how much we can achieve, but instead to root our identity in the God who made us!
SM is our student ministry for grades 6 - 12. We meet every Wednesday from 6:30 - 8:15p
This week we'll be encouraged to see how we might be finding an "artificial identity" in our possessions, and to choose a more authentic sense of self!
SM is our student ministry for grades 6 - 12. We meet every Wednesday from 6:30 - 8:15p
This week we'll be encouraged to see what lies we may be believing and to embrace a more authentic version of who God has made us to be!
SM is our student ministry for grades 6 - 12. We meet every Wednesday from 6:30 - 8:15p
SM is our student ministry for students grades 6-12.
We meet every Wednesday from 6:30 - 8:15p at the church!
SM is our student ministry for students grades 6-12.
We meet every Wednesday from 6:30 - 8:15p at the church!
SM is our student ministry for students grades 6-12.
We meet every Wednesday from 6:30 - 8:15p at the church!
SM is our student ministry for students grades 6-12.
We exist to help students love God and live the life He has for them.
Join us every Wednesday from 6:30 - 8:15p at the church!
Jesus didn't practice affirmational inclusion. He practiced transformational inclusion. We can't continue to define ourselves by the very sins that crucified Jesus, and at the same time assume that we are right with God.
Big Idea: God speaks by the Holy Spirit through the Bible, prayer, our circumstances, and other believers to reveal Himself, His will, and His ways.
Big Idea: You keep anxiously waiting for God to show up while God is graciously waiting for you to catch up to what He is already doing.
Big Idea: Everything in your Christian life, from knowing God to experiencing God, depends on the quality of your love relationship with God.
Big Idea: Sometimes suffering doesn't make sense to us, but sometimes suffering can serve a purpose.
Big idea: Suffering in the hands of an all-powerful & loving God can be a wonderful tool for us.
God has given sex as a gift to husbands and wives and consistent sexual union is just as much a spiritual act as it is a physical one.
Big Idea: These are real letters to real audiences, written for particular purposes and in response to specific situations.
In this message, Pastor Ryan does a 30,000 foot flyover of the book of Acts and how the Holy Spirit still drives the growth of the church as He did then and and still does now.
Big Idea: The early church did not determine which books were inspired, they discovered which books were inspired.
Big Idea: The Bible is different from any other book - even books about the Bible - because it has been set apart by God for special and sacred use.
Big Idea: What we do with the Good News of Jesus Christ has eternal consequences because the punishment for those who reject Jesus is just as eternal as the reward for those who serve Him.
Big Idea: We can't help every "one" with their physical needs, but we can help every "one" with their greatest need - forgiveness of sin through Jesus Christ.
Welcome to 902 Church!
Today we'll be closing out with the final week of our series, God Has a Name. Don't miss it as Pastor Ryan gives us a special challenge of carrying God's name to our homes, our workplaces, and everywhere in between!
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Big Idea: How we act during this political season will not change someone's vote, but it may change their life and eternity.
Big Idea: God moves just as powerfully in seasons of resting as He does in seasons of running. In this message, Pastor Ryan teaches us how to find rest in a world that is always running.
Big Idea: The wilderness can be a place of painful preparation, but it always produces blessing in the end.
Big Idea: Concealed within every obstacle is an opportunity to walk in the power of God.
Big Idea: Paul’s heart behind Phil 4:13 is not that we go out and conquer the world, he’s reminding us that we can press on when the world tries to conquer us.
Big Idea: God's heart in Jeremiah 29:11 is not that we would escape trouble, but that we would learnt to thrive in the midst of it.
Big Idea: All truth and no grace pushes people away from Jesus. All grace and no truth leads to a license to sin.
Big Idea: The evil one desires us bound in the grave, but Jesus desires us to be set free.
Big Idea: Your future is not determined by the problems you face, but by the God you trust.
Big Idea: You do what you can do, I'll do what I can do, and Jesus will do what we can't do.
Big Idea: Jesus doesn't just want to perform miracles in your life, He wants you to be a part of them.
Big Idea: An unstoppable church is one that is full of transformed people that transform the world.
Big Idea: The resurrection of Jesus guarantees us forgiveness, fulfillment, and a future.
This is our student series on the life of Joseph!
Joseph often found himself in situations where he didn't know what do. In part one we talk about what to do when we don't know what to do with our family.
Big Idea: You can have an outstanding marriage by exhibiting outstanding communication.
God promises through our relationship with Him that He will heal us - whether in this life or the next. In this message, Pastor Ryan teaches us through the story of Hezekiah and Isaiah how to experience true and authentic healing in God.
Many people view God as a sort of cosmic police officer who is waiting to bust us every time we do something wrong. Yet the Bible paints a completely different picture of God. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that God's desire isn't to put us into prison but to break us out.
We all face obstacles and giants that prevent us from seeing clearly what God wants from us. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that finding clarity in life is possible if you are willing to pray through until you breakthrough.
What was the "one gift" you always wanted but never got? Were you upset? Disappointed? Heartbroken? In this message, Pastor Ryan teaches us that God loves to make the impossible possible for those who love Him. We just have to be open to his plans, not ours. If you are seeking a miracle this Christmas season, then this message is for you.
Christmas is all about hope, and that hope would not be possible without Jesus. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that if we truly want to experience change this Christmas we must trade Christmas hype for Christmas HOPE!
There is no stress like financial stress. It makes you feel trapped, cramped, and boxed-in. But, what if we can make some space by making some small, and simple, changes to our lives? In the final week of Making Change, Pastor Ryan teaches us how to maximize your financial security by preparing for tomorrow.
There is no stress like financial stress. It makes you feel trapped, cramped, and boxed-in. But, what if we can make some space by making some small, and simple, changes to our lives? In part 3 of this message series Pastor Ryan teaches us how to give our way out of financial stress. When we give we will be blessed, and when we give we will be a blessing.
There is no stress like financial stress. It makes you feel trapped, cramped, and boxed-in. But what if we can make some space by making some small, and simple, changes to our lives. In part 2 of Making Change, Pastor Ryan teaches us two important principles for getting out of debt.
What kinds of words come from your mouth? That is usually an indication of what your heart is really like. And you can't solve your heart problem, however, just by cleaning up your speech. In this message, Pastor Ryan teaches us how to get to the source of why we throw shade - even when we know better.
Have you ever had someone throw shade at you by judging you based on something they heard about you? It never feels good to have people assume things about us before they know the whole story. As Christians, rather than talking about someone... what if we simply loved them? Pastor Ryan helps us learn how we can throw compassion before we throw shade.
The average person speaks 16,000 words a day. We all know that our words matter, but are they really that big of a deal? Pastor Tim teaches us that the words we say actually create the world we live in. If we want to see our lives change, we have to begin by changing our words.
Micheal Jordan is quoted as saying, "Talent wins games, but teamwork wins championships." At 902 Church we believe that shared responsibility honors God and empowers the church. And when we all help "carry the load" of ministry amazing things happen!
We exist to reach people who are far from God and lead them to an intimate relationship with Jesus. In this message, Pastor Ryan reminds us that it is our job to do whatever it takes, short of sin, to reach people who are far from God.
Nobody wants to be called a quitter. Yet sadly, many people quit on God long before He's had the chance to show up in their life. God's desire is to produce a spiritual harvest for His children. And if we do our part, He is faithful to do His. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that we can level up by not giving up.
Conflict is inevitable when you have a "war of the wills." When my will doesn't line up with your will, things tend to get heated. In this message, Pastor Ryan teaches through James 4:1-12 that there are three wars we all face and how to overcome them.
We can say we love Jesus but unless it actually changes how we live it might be questioned. Our walk needs to match our talk. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that we demonstrate that our faith is genuine through our actions.
Difficult times are never fun and no one ever says, "I'm glad to be going through this." And what happens when we ask God for a way out but we don't get it? In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that part of leveling up in faith is learning to be patient in tough times. We may find no pleasure in it, but it's quite possible to profit from it.
Your work matters to God. In this message, Joey Leneave teaches us 3 important principles for how to seize the 167 at work.
One of the biggest obstacles you will face in seizing the 167 is your own mind. In this message, we talk about how to overcome this obstacle so that you can experience God's peace mentally.
The very first time God ever said something was not good was when He saw Adam by himself. Even though people can (and often will) hurt us in life, we need relationships. We were created for relationships! Jesus Himself died on the cross because He believed a relationship with us was worth it. What if they key to seizing the 167 in our social life is having the right relationship with God first?
If you owned a $1 million dollar racehorse would you feed it junk food and keep it up all night? Of course not. You would protect that investment. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that what we do with our body matters to God. And if your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, then treat it as such. Since God honors you with a body, honor him with your body.
How we process our emotions can lead us closer to or far away from God. In this message, Pastor Ryan teaches us the key to improved emotional health.
Racism is a problem that Christians cannot ignore and must address. In this message, Pastor Ryan teaches us that racism in more than just a skin issue. Racism is also a sin issue.
In this message, guest speaker Nicole Voth encourages Mom's that strongholds don't have to control them. By trusting in the finished worked of Christ, we can break free from the pain that holds us back.
In this message, 5 different speakers got 5 minutes each to speak on a certain topic. That topic was: "One thing I wish you knew about God was that _______."
Jesus has victory over anything life can throw your way. And because of this, we can live with security, standing, and strength.
Family drama. Every family has it and every family experiences it. But it doesn't have to be this way. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches the biblical concept of submission. Whether husband to God, wife to husband, child to parent, or employee to employer, the key to making family relationships work is mutual submission.
Sometimes the only thing keeping you from a thriving relationship with Jesus is yourself. Through Ephesians 4:17-32, Pastor Ryan teaches us that tiny changes in our daily habits can bring mighty results in our quest to live for God.
When you unlock the mystery of God's redemptive plan, we discover true love. In this message, guest speaker Joey Leneave reminds us how high, how wide, how long, and how deep the love of God really is.
When our "bad story" collides with God's grace it becomes our "backstory." In this message, Pastor Ryan teaches us that God's grace is limitless for those who are found in Him. You were...But God...So that!
Many Christians have limitless wealth at their disposal, and yet they live like spiritual paupers. In this message, Pastor Ryan teaches us that as a child of God, you possess all the spiritual blessings of God. You no longer have to strive and work for the blessings that God has already given you.
We all love to celebrate! Whether it's a birthday, wedding anniversary, graduation or simply finding your lost keys in the couch...there is just something about gathering with our friends and family to celebrate an important milestone. In this message our church is challenged to celebrate God's promises and faithfulness as we step into His vision for 902 Church.
God deserves nothing less than our total commitment. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that amazing things happen when we say "YES" to God.
Could you give up the thing you love most in the world for God? Your career? A relationship? Your money or your time? In one of the greatest tests of faith in the Bible, Abraham was asked to do this very thing. And he passed the test! We have reached a point in our church where God is asking us to sacrifice for Him so that more people can know the life-changing reality of Jesus Christ. Are you in?
God is for those who are far from Him. And we believe the local church should be as well. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that in order to reach the "One's" we have to surrender a few things. And when we do, we will see God move in extraordinary ways!
Nothing is worse than wanting to get better but being stuck in normal. In this message Student Pastor Tim Smith teaches us how to get unstuck. So when you find yourself stuck, remember that God has something better.
Sometimes the person most responsible for our lack of getting better is ourselves. We strive to get better but we sabotage ourselves and fall back into normal. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that life is better when it's done with Jesus.
"Normal" in today's culture is financial strain, bad relationships, spiritual apathy, and stress. But what if there is something "better" out there. Something that will completely change the direction of your "normal" life. In this message, Pastor Ryan teaches us that Jesus invites us to something better. And in order to experience what's better, we must step away from what's normal.
Christmas is the season of lights! We put lights on our trees, houses, cars, and even wear shirts that light up. So why is darkness still so prevalent in a season that is supposed to be all about "light." In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that with the help of Jesus we can fight back against the darkness we experience. When emotional darkness is on the attack, make the decision to fight back!
One of the greatest weapons the enemy uses to deceive us into handing over our joy is what the Bible calls a root of bitterness. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us how to kill that root so we can experience real joy. In the end, we can't control what other people do, but we can control how we respond.
Anger is a very strong emotion that if left unchecked can lead to broken relationships and hurt feelings. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that when joy fills our hearts, anger doesn't fuel our lives. This Christmas, let's check our anger at the door and focus on the only thing that matters - the celebration of the newborn King.
Fear is a very real emotion and if left unchecked it can rob us of our joy. Through the story of the shepherds in Luke 2:8-16, Pastor Ryan teaches us that in order to find joy we must let go of our fears. And when we do, we can truly experience the abundant joy that Jesus offers.
In this message we learn that a simple invitation to the table has the power to change a person's life. Who will you invite?
The story of David & Mephibosheth in 2 Samuel 9, is a wonderful example of the redemption available to those who come humbly before the King of kings. Jesus is that King and offers to one and all a chance to eat at the King’s table forever. In this message we learn about the kindness of David towards Mephibosheth and as followers of Jesus we have an obligation to show the same kindness to others that God has shown us.
Every day thousands of voices are competing for our attention. So how do we recognize God's voice over all the others? It's not as difficult as you might think. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches that God's voice is unique and the better we know Jesus, the less we have to worry about following the wrong voice.
God is a communicator and we have the ability to hear His voice. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us a few ways that God communicates with us. Whether through the Bible, through the Holy Spirit, or through other Christians, hearing God starts with learning "how" God communicates. Because when we learn "how" God communicates we'll be more apt to listen and obey.
Why is it easier to recognize the voice of a famous actor than it is to recognize the voice of God? At times we all struggle to hear God's voice. But what if learning to hear God is not as difficult as we think? God's voice is as clear as yours and mine and we have the ability to hear it and read it in the Bible. In this message, we learn to hear God's voice through proper practice, personal relationship, and practical guidance.
We all face valleys in this life. Times when we wonder if God is still with us and for us. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us that even when we are in the valley we can trust God to see us through. We will choose to walk in confidence, faith, and victory because the same God who brought us through the valley last time, will bring us through the valley this time.
We all have questions. The Bible has answers. In week 1 of YOU ASKED FOR IT! Pastor Ryan gives biblical answers to some tough questions submitted by our church family.
In the final message of this series our Student Pastor, Tim Smith teaches us the importance of giving our kids and teenagers a better story. Because over time the stories we tell give our kids perspective.
The words we say to our kids are important and they carry weight. Every word shapes how our kids will see the world, themselves, and God. In this message, we learn that our words have the power to direct, destroy, or delight the life of a child. Because over time, our words become a collection of messages that can drastically change the direction of a kids life.
If you want to stay connected to your kids then you need to learn how to have fun with them. In this message we learn that having real fun with your kids shows them that you care.
You only have so much time to influence the life of a child. In this message we discover that when we consistently show up in the life of a child, we show them their worth.
God has gifted every Christian with spiritual gifts that are to be used to build His kingdom, grow the church, and reach people who don't know Jesus. In this message Pastor Ryan teaches us the importance of discovering, developing, and dispersing our unique gifts.
For more info about our church check out our website at 902church.org.
Also follow us on social media! instagram.com/902church; twitter.com/902church; facebook.com/902church
For more info about our church check out our website at 902church.org.
Also follow us on social media! instagram.com/902church; twitter.com/902church; facebook.com/902church
For more info about our church check out our website at 902church.org.
Also follow us on social media! instagram.com/902church; twitter.com/902church; facebook.com/902church
Mommin' ain't always easy...but it's worth it. In this message we learn that perspective matters. We can view the glass as half empty...or half full. And when we view life's circumstances through the eyes of Jesus...it changes our perspective.
Amos was a shepherd and sycamore tree care giver who God called to deliver a hard message to Israel regarding its complacency. In this message we learn that complacency kills intimacy and that as followers of Jesus we have a duty to turn our complacency into action.
Jonah was man called by God to go and preach to a group of people he despised. In fact, when God said go west...Jonah ran east. Thankfully, God pursued Jonah despite his disobedience to bring about his will. In this message we learn that no one - no matter how evil - is beyond redemption and God's mercy.
Habakkuk was a man who needed answers. Why is there evil in the world? Why does evil seem to be winning? Troubled by what he observed he took his complaints directly to God. And God answered with an avalanche of proof and prediction!
In 520 BC God raised up the prophet Haggai to encourage and motivate the Jewish people to get back to work rebuilding the 2nd people after 15 years of no progress. In this message we learn that God must be our top priority. We must stay focused, passionate, and committed to what he's called us to do. And when we do...the blessings come!
We all know what feels like to get our hopes up, only to be let down. When that happens we often believe the story is over. So did Jesus disciples after his resurrection. Jesus was dead and they believed their epic story was over. But with God, we know the story is never over unless he says it is. If you ain't dead, God ain't done! And when you invite Jesus into your story - your story changes!
Do you have an addiction or know someone who might? Truth be told, we probably all have at least 1 or 2, and trying to overcome them can be incredibly frustrating. We want to stop, yet we struggle to stop. We become overwhelmed and start to believe that relief will never come. Thankfully, because of Jesus, addiction does NOT have to be the end of your story! He still loves you and has an incredible plan for your life. YOU CAN and WILL OVERCOME.
Anxiety plagues millions of people everyday. We worry about our finances, our relationships, our kids, our jobs, and the list goes on and on. But what if it doesn't have to be this way? What if we can overcome anxiety by replacing it with real faith? How would it change things? The choice is ours...to be overwhelmed...or to overcome.
Godly people who really love Jesus can and do struggle with depression. Thankfully, God has given us His prescription for depression through the story of Elijah. Despite all that God had done through Elijah, he still struggled and wanted to die. But depression was not the end for the Elijah and it's not the end for you either. You can become a better version of yourself with the help of God and other people.
In order to build healthy relationships we must address and remove the unhealthy ones. Not everyone deserves the right to speak into your life. In this message we learn that sometimes removing toxic relationships are a good thing.
The most important and life-changing relationship you'll ever have is the one you have with Jesus. In fact, your relationship with him affects every relationship you have. But like any relationship, your relationship with Jesus takes work. There is some assembly required. In this message we learn that Jesus is the best friend we will ever have.
If we want to see God more clearly, we must surround ourselves with the right people. People we can share experiences, life, and faith with. In this message we learn that healthy Christian relationships help us see God more clearly which helps build our faith.
We all need the right people in our lives. People who will make us better and fight for us. In this message we learn that when you surround yourself with the right people it can change the course of your life.
Sometimes, we don't want people to know our faults because we are afraid they won't like us. But we believe church should be a place where we can be real. In this message, Pastor Rick Vernon teaches us that when we let others get to know who we really are, we find true community and freedom.
You weren't created to be comfortable; you were created to be effective. In this message Pastor Tim Smith teaches us that God wants to use us to make a difference in someone else's life. In order to do that we have to think different, be different, and do different.
902 is a place where it's okay to not be okay - but it's not okay to stay that way. There is a next step for all of us. In this message we discuss 3 ways to grow in our faith and knowledge of God. Spiritual growth for the Christian is NOT an option - it's a necessity.
We all know what it feels like to be excluded. Its one of the worst feelings in the world. No invitation to the party. Not picked for the sports team. Being left out of the work clique. We all want to belong and be a part of something great. At 902, we feel the same way. This is a place where you can belong - even before you believe.
Hurt and pain within families is often passed down from generation to generation. The old adage that “hurt people hurt people” is too often true. The cycle is only broken when someone who has been hurt responds not with pain but with blessing instead. We see just that in the life of Joseph. Abused by his brothers and sold into slavery, Joseph chose not to retaliate but to bless. And the cycle was broken. Joseph’s life pointed to another who was to come. He too would be abused and cast out. But rather than retaliate, he willing suffered and died so that we might live. On the cross, Jesus broke the cycle of sin and death and blessed us with forgiveness and grace. He became the ultimate victim so that we could live as ultimate victors!
Change is difficult. It's especially difficult within the context of the family. We settle into our roles. Unloved spouse. Offended sibling. Entitled child. We want our family to change. That's the way Jacob and Esau lived for many years. They had settled into their roles and were content to live out that dysfunction for the rest of their lives. Then something happened that changed everything.
Families matter to God. That's why few things are more painful than unresolved family conflict. However, conflict is an opportunity to see God's grace in action. Because at the end of the day, God wants your family blessed - not broken.
No family is perfect and brokenness is a part of every family's story. The crazy uncle, the absentee parent, the headstrong teenager, the alcoholic brother, and even the overbearing mother-in-law are a part of your family's story that can feel like a bad reality TV show at times. In this series we will look at one biblical family that embodies the best & worst of family life and reminds us of the power of God to redeem and restore any family.
An eternal life, filled with peace, hope, and happiness is promised to those who follow Jesus. In this message Pastor Ryan discusses three promises from Revelation about heaven and eternity.
We all want justice. Whether we've been wronged or know someone who has, we all wish God would "do something" about it. One day God's wrath will be poured out on a non-believing world and Jesus will erase evil from the earth indefinitely. Thankfully, our hope as sinners is that between us and the wrath of God stands the cross of Jesus.
We all go through difficult times and seasons in life. However, God's character doesn't change based on our chaos. God is on the throne and in complete control of the universe. Therefore, even when your world is falling apart, you can trust that God will hold you together.
Near the end of his life John received a vision from Jesus which he recorded for the benefit of the seven churches in Asia and for Christians throughout history. Though many people are afraid to study it, we know that Revelation was meant to prepare us - not scare us.
Just as Nehemiah had a strategy, the enemy also has a strategy that involves trying to distract, discredit, and discourage what God has called us to do. In this message we learn that the closer we get to doing what God wants done, the harder our enemy will fight to stop us.
God has given each of us a burden. Something that burns inside of us. Something bigger than ourselves. Something we feel called to accomplish. There is a change-your-world leader in each of us and God is calling us to be the Nehemiah's of our day. He is calling us to step us and lead in a time that is devoid of leadership.
Nehemiah was an ordinary guy who God used to lead a charge to rebuild the broken down walls of Jerusalem. A task that seemed impossible to the nation of Israel. Yet, they accomplished it in only 52 days. Our church has been given a similar mission to help rebuild the city of Kinston by rebuilding the people. This seemingly impossible task can be accomplished when God is helping those who honor him.
Dealing with hypocritical people can drive you nuts! They say one thing, but do another. In this message we discuss how to live with, deal with, care for, and love those "hypocritical" people in our lives.
Have you ever had someone say something about you that wasn't true? Sure! We all have. In this message we discuss why people gossip and how to respond. Gossip hurts, but God heals.
We have all experienced unfair judgment from other people. We have all unfairly judged other people. But judgment isn't always a bad thing. In this message we clear up all the misconceptions about judging and how we can live with, deal with, care for, and love those "judgment" people.
Manipulative people have mastered the art of deception. They know how to flatter, threaten, and guilt-trip their way into getting what they want. So how do we live with, deal with, care for, and ultimately love...those "manipulative" people in our lives.
The backseat driver. The nagging wife. The complaining husband. The "nothing is ever good enough" in-laws. Overly critical people can always find something wrong and it can be exhausting trying to maneuver through life with them. But, what if God wants to use them to mold and shape us? Better yet, what if God doesn't want us to avoid them...but LOVE them?
Do you ever wish God would just plainly tell you what to do in a given situation? Whenever we need wisdom, we can pray to God and he will generously give us the answer. As Christians we don't have to wander around in the dark, hoping to stumble upon answers. When we walk with wise people and ask God for guidance He will instruct us on what we need to do.
When you commit to following Jesus, he gives you a new direction for your life. This was a recent baptism service where we saw God change the lives of 19 people! This video is of the 9:30am worship service.
No one has a better reason to throw a party than followers of Jesus. In this message, Pastor Tim teaches us the importance of not only throwing a party, but inviting others to join us.
The unofficial launch of summer always begins with a brief season of honoring others. Memorial Day, graduation, and end of the year celebrations fill our calendars as we celebrate the hard work and sacrifice of those around us. But what about honoring those we disagree with? In this message we will discover that when we honor others we are honoring God.
When we make seeking after God our main and encompassing priority, everything else in life will take care of itself.
The myth of the perfect Mom is just that...a myth. In a world that is obsessed with being "perfect" it is easy to compare ourselves with those around us and wonder how "they" do it all. The truth is that you were not called to be perfect, but to be perfected through Jesus
We don't forgive because we feel like it. We forgive because we are followers of Jesus and it's what he calls us to do.
Finding our identity in our insecurities keeps us from being fully alive. Therefore, when insecurity strikes remember that you are unconditionally love, valued, and completely accepted as a child of God.
We often miss the presence of God in our lives because we are too focused on our problems. It is only when we look for Jesus that we realize he has been there all along.
It is not too late and you are not too far gone to be saved by Jesus. Just ask the Thief on the cross next to Jesus. Even as he hung on his own cross he experienced the lift-giving and life-altering grace of Jesus.
Judas Iscariot is the quintessential bad boy of Easter. He was a thief who sold Jesus out so that he could benefit. It's easy to look at Judas and wonder how he could do something so heinous. Yet, when we study our lives closely, we discover there is a little bit of Judas in all of us.
Caiaphas had it all. Power, influence, authority, and money. He also had the Savior of the world standing in front of him. Yet, he refused to follow Jesus out of fear of what it would cost him. When we say yes to God it will cost us something. Saying no will cost us more - including the thing we chose over him.
When you have a clear understanding of who Jesus is, it changes how you live your life.
When you have a clear understanding of who Jesus is, it changes what you believe about Him.
When you have a clear understanding of who Jesus is, it changes how you connect to him.
Every marriage faces difficult times and seasons but that does not mean it has to end in divorce. In this message Pastor Ryan encourages us to fight for our marriages like everything is at stake - because it is.
No one ever plans to have an affair. It happens over time and can have devastating affects. In this message we discover how affairs start and how you can protect your marriage from falling victim to one.
Selfishness is quite possibly the greatest enemy to achieving oneness in any marriage. To avoid the bitter fruit of selfishness we must allow God to fix "me" before he fixes "we."
God is a giver and He wants us to be just like Him. When we give, as God as given to us, His blessings overflow.
Pastor Steve McDaniel with Living Water International shares all that God is doing in Guatemala.
There is a big difference between hoping God will move and expecting God to move. When we expect God to move it moves God to action.
This Christmas many of us will receive gifts as well as give them. But what are the qualities that make a Christmas gift great? Is it the price? Quality? The thought put into it? We invite you this Christmas to join us as we discover the BEST GIFT EVER!
King Herod had the greatest gift of all time right under his nose. Yet, his pride, insecurity, and selfishness wouldn't allow him to accept it. When we accept Jesus it means we must reject something else. What will you do with Jesus this Christmas season?
There are some gifts that everyone needs but no one really gets to excited about. The same was true with the very first Christmas. Jesus was the gift that everyone needed, but he wasn't the gift that everyone wanted.
The Church doesn't want something from you. We want something for you. When you experience financial freedom, it not only helps your life today. It frees you up to impact future generations in your own family and beyond.
We live in a world that is obsessed and fascinated with what is "trending." However, as followers of Jesus we want to invest our lives in things that never go out of style. In this message we discover that in a "trendy" world the best things in life are "timeless."
So if there is a God, and he has a plan for our lives, why does it seem to be so difficult to figure out? The answer to that question might be simpler than you think. And, for those moments when it seems confusing, there’s actually a shortcut to finding God’s will that we’ll share with you.
Many people read the Old Testament (the first part of the Bible) only to be shocked by the violence they see, even some, apparently, sanctioned by God. Why did God order the slaughter of children? Why would God support war? There are answers...
Many people struggle to believe in a God who allows tragedy to happen. In the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew and major flooding in our area Pastor Tim brings a timely message that God can bring something good out of anything that is bad.
One of the greatest objections to the existence of God is this: If God is loving, why does he allow good people to suffer? Many world religions tackle this question with different answers. Christianity’s is unique, as God responds not with information, but with something far more profound.
You probably have questions. You wish God would answer now. If anyone had questions that deserved to be answered, it was Job, who lost everything. He finally gets a chance to ask his questions directly to God and learned something that completely changed his questions.
Christians should lovingly and charitably use politics as a way to promote the welfare of their community.
Listeners must accept (“catch”) the Word of God and let it take root in their life. What kind of receiver will you be? The Intercepted, the Butter-Finger, the Fumbler, or the Dependable?
Parents are often so busy providing for their children that they don't make time for them. Thankfully, Jesus modeled for us three "T's" every child needs from their parents that will change the course of their lives.
Disciplining our children is never easy but it's a vital part of being a parent. When we discipline, as God disciplines, we can know that it's in the best interest of our children.
Being a parent is difficult, yet God's Word has plenty to say about how to raise kids who love and follow Jesus.
When God tests his children his purpose is to prove that our faith is genuine and real. But God doesn't test us because he doesn't know how strong we are. He tests us because we don't know how strong we are. It's in these times of testing we learn that God is with us and for us.
In this message Pastor Ryan interviews the Williamson family who God has called to full-time mission work in Guatemala.
We have all sinned an fallen short of the glory of God. Fortunately, Jesus is a friend of sinners and came to address our mess.
Life is full of interruptions. We make our plans only to have them interrupted by the circumstances of life. Yet, even when things don't go our way, we can trust that Jesus is still in control and walking with us.
We all fall short and many Christians believe that God is perpetually disappointed with them. But because of what Jesus did for us on the cross - he considers us friends and children.
Daniel stood firm on his convictions in a culture that was requiring him to compromise. But Daniel left a lasting impression on Babylon - not because of what he did - but because of what he didn't do.
God was faithful to Daniel, and Daniel was faithful to God. When we choose our convictions over compromise we will stand out to the world.
Whenever you choose to take a stand for God there will be people who oppose you. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego chose NOT to "blur the lines" of their convictions even at the cost of their very lives. They trusted in God whether they lived or died. Are you willing to stand for God even if it cost you something?
Sometimes in our faith, what we believe and what we should do gets a little blurry. As Christians, we are called to live out our convictions in a culture of compromise.
The stone in front of Jesus' tomb was not rolled aside so Jesus could get out, but so others could get in. We are invited to come and see that the tomb was empty then, and it is still empty today.
Heaven is real and filled with celebration beyond our imagination! But Heaven isn't awesome because of what is there, but who is there - Jesus!
Hell is for real, but it wasn't made for you. When you accept Jesus, you receive what God has prepared for you when you die - heaven. Have you accepted Jesus in your life?
The afterlife is cloaked in mystery. What happens moments after we die? What is Heaven really like? What about Hell? And does what we do in this world really matter in the next? Join us as we uncover the life-altering answers to these questions in So You're Dead...Now What?
Sometimes our marriages need some extensive remodeling. They have become boring, outdated, worn. Where can we turn to find a compelling model for marriage? The bible tells us about a bridegroom who models all of the characteristics that are required for a healthy marriage. But not only is he an example worth emulating, he is able to restore, redeem and reconcile when we fall short of the ideal. In this sermon we will look at the character of Christ and declare the hope that always available because of his sacrifice on the cross.
We live in a culture that is preoccupied with the idea of falling in love. Everyone longs to fall in love. Songs are written about it. Movies are made about it. But “falling” in love is the easy part. "Staying" in love requires more effort. Time can wear on any relationship, especially marriage. A loving marriage requires hard work – everyday. It takes constant course correction and intentionality.
The idea of marriage is filled with so many myths. These myths create a mountain of expectations that will never be met and often leave husbands and wives disappointed, disillusioned and unsatisfied. In this new sermon series we will attempt to debunk these myths and offer a more biblical view of marriage. Whether you are married, single, divorced, or praying for "the one" we believe you to can have a happily ever after.
God wants what’s best for us. Because of that, He reveals daily decisions that He wants us to make. The question we must ask ourselves is, “What's the wise thing to do in this situation?
Nobody likes to wait. In our fast paced world we want what we want and we want it NOW. But what if waiting isn't necessarily a bad thing. Just because you're waiting, doesn't mean God isn't working.
There are millions of apps available for download. They can be used to wake you up, count calories, get the news, shop, and even watch movies. Unfortunately, they can't make you get up, eat healthy, spend wisely, or exercise. The App store isn't the only place you can find apps though. The Bible is full of "apps" that can help us live as God intended.
Fear of where we stand with God often keeps us from pursuing a relationship with Jesus. The good news is that Jesus came for everyone - including the plain and the ordinary. You don't need extraordinary qualifications to be accepted by Jesus - he accepts you just as you are.
Fear of what other people think of us often holds us back from truly stepping into all that God has for us. It's time to stop worrying about what others think about us and start believing what God says about us.
Christmas is a reminder that the Light of the world has come. When we let our faith become bigger than our fears we will never walk in darkness.