Messages | RHC: Recent Episodes
Redland Hills Church
As Jesus prepares for his departure, he stops to pray for himself, his disciples, and for us. What would be the main thing Jesus would pray for his future church? Our unity so that the world will know him. From John 17
Have you ever faced a change you did not feel ready for? In John 14 and John 16, Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure and promises that they will not be left alone. This message reminds us that the Holy Spirit is present to guide us, strengthen us, convict us, and help us become more like Jesus. From John 14 & 16
What is the secret to living the Christian life? In John 15, Jesus doesn’t give us a list of rules or a better strategy. Instead, He points us to Himself. Discover what it means to abide in the true Vine, why God prunes those He loves, and how lasting fruit is produced when Jesus becomes our Source of Life. From John 15
What does true greatness really look like? In John 13, Jesus answers that question in a way that shocked everyone in the room and still challenges us today. Discover why the King of Kings picked up a towel, washed dirty feet, and showed us that the greatest leaders are the ones who are willing to serve. From John 13
There is a big difference between being a fan of Jesus and him being our Lord. In John 12 we see both lived out. Jesus speaks very clearly about the cost of being a disciple. Am I living more like a fan or like he is my Lord? From John 12
It is deeply painful when a love one passes away. Human have always longed for ways to stay connected with those who have passed on. Jesus offers the only real solution: resurrection. From John 11
Have you ever felt like you’re trying to figure life out on your own? In John 10, Jesus makes one of His most powerful statements: “I am the Good Shepherd.” In this message, discover the hope found in a Shepherd who knows you, loves you, speaks to you, and willingly laid down His life for you. Learn why the good news isn’t that we’ve become better sheep—it’s that we have a faithful Shepherd we can trust with every part of our lives. From John 10
Human suffering produces many questions. Jesus takes an opportunity with a blind man to reveal something about God that was bigger than their questions. When God’s mercy touched the blind man, it produced a spirit of courage. Will God’s mercy produce the same in us? From John 9
A group of believers in Jesus are confronted with their shallow belief. For Jesus, belief is not just about agreement in concepts, but obedience to his teaching. From John 8
What happens when the Light exposes what you’ve worked so hard to hide? In John 8, Jesus declares, “I am the Light of the World,” and shows us exactly what that means. His light exposes darkness, reveals truth, and leads people to life. Yet Jesus does not expose our sin to shame us. He reveals what is broken so His grace can heal, restore, and transform us. From John 8
What happens when people spend their lives searching for answers while missing the One who truly satisfies the soul? In John 7, confusion fills the city, confrontation exposes hearts, and Jesus stands in the middle of it all, declaring that He alone is the living water we’ve been searching for all along.
What motivates us to follow Jesus? After Jesus feeds 5,000+ people, the crowd grows because they know they can get free food for their stomach. But Jesus has better food he wants them to have for their soul. He offers it to you as well. From John 6
In Week 5 of the “Good News” series, we walk through John 5 and the story of the man at the Pool of Bethesda who had been stuck for thirty-eight years. This message explores how people can become trapped by fear, shame, disappointment, addiction, or spiritual routine, and how Jesus still has the power to call people into freedom and new life. Through the words “Rise and walk,” we see that Jesus did not come to make people more religious—He came to transform lives through His grace, power, death, and resurrection. From John 5
Humans have a tendency to try and satisfy our longings with things that are unable to fill the void. In a conversation with a thirsty woman, Jesus reveals that he alone can fill the void. From John 4
John 3:16 is likely the most well-know verse in all the Bible. But it is set inside a story when a religious leader approaches Jesus in the secrecy of night. Jesus’ words would help bring him into the light. From John 3
John 2 marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and reveals who He truly is through turning water into wine, cleansing the temple, and pointing to His resurrection. We see His power to transform, His passion for true worship, and His authority over death. It calls us to move beyond simply admiring Jesus and fully trust and follow Him, because He is still changing lives today. From John 2
The question, “Who is Jesus?” is critical to get right. There are many answers to this question in the world, but John, an eyewitness, wants us to know without a doubt how to answer that. From John 1:19-42
The concept of God can be difficult to grasp. What is he like? What does he want? Many times we have wrong answers to these questions. As John begins his gospel, he immediately lets us know his big idea: Jesus is God made visible. From John 1:1-18
On Friday the cross was a disheartening and confusing event. But it wasn’t the end! On Sunday Jesus came alive and appeared to the disillusioned to give them new hope and purpose. From Luke 24
Why is our nature to only love people who treat us well? Why do we feel the need to get even when we are hurt? And what does it say about our faith if we refuse to love our enemies? Because Jesus makes it clear–this isn’t optional, it is the clearest evidence that our lives have truly been changed by him. From Matthew 5
We Americans live in a culture that emphasizes our rights. While important, we must be careful not to elevate our rights over our relationships with one another in the church. Love must be the guiding principle. From Romans 14
Jesus says the world will know we are his followers by the way we love one another. How are we doing with that? What will it take to make a positive impression on our non-Christian friends? Fortunately, we have some guidance. From John 13 & Romans 12
Loving God isn’t just about obedience, as critical as that is. He asks for our entire self to respond in love: our heart, soul, mind, strength. From Mark 12
Jesus says the second most important thing is to love our neighbor. Yet we live in a culture that often isn’t very neighborly. How can we start loving our neighbors well? From Matthew 22 & 1 John 4
In order to extend the love of God to others, we must be on guard against our own self-righteousness. Jesus tells a parable that challenges those who look religious, but don’t have the heart of the Father. From Luke 15
We live in a world that gives two conflicting messages. One says “you are enough” and the other says “you aren’t enough.” One leads to arrogance and the other to defeat. But the message of Jesus acknowledges our insufficiency and the all sufficiency of Christ. From Romans 3 and Ephesians 2 // Pastor Tony Mest
Community is an essential part of our walk and growth in Christ. Without it we can’t fulfill the command to love one another. But how do we build that? From Romans 16 & Galatians 6.
Much of our life is spent avoiding pain. Yet pain teaches us that something is wrong and needs correction. Similarly, God uses our pain to grow us into greater Christlikeness. From Romans 5 & 1 Peter 4.
Sustained growth must include dealing with the pests that eat away and destroy that growth. The good news is that God has not left us helpless in that fight. From Mark 9, Colossians 3, Titus 2.
God works and provides for us in amazing and miraculous ways. Yet we don’t stand on the sidelines. He has invited us to work with him. Are you responding to his invitation? From Matthew 17:24-27.
One of the ways God grows us is through his discipline in our lives. While it is common to resist or ignore it, the writer of Hebrews counsels us not to take it lightly. From Hebrews 12.
Today’s special guest speaker is Tony Tripi. Prayer can be so powerful when we understand how to pray. Tony will unpack several different texts throughout the Bible, teaching us how to pray while also showing us that God wants us to build a relationship with him through prayer.
As the Israelites approach the flooded Jordan, God instructs them to cross into the land he promised to give them. But how? After 40 years, why now? God was revealing something to them that we need to learn as well. From Joshua 3.
As the Israelites get ready to cross the Jordan, two spies encounter a lady in Jericho named Rahab. By external appearances, she is an unlikely to be much value. But God had a different story in mind. This outsider becomes a central figure in the lineage of Jesus. From Joshua 2.
Everyone wants to be strong & face obstacles with courage. But where does that inner fortitude come from? As Joshua faces an enormous challenge ahead, God provides insight not only on what he is to do, but what will sustain him in the battle. From Joshua 1.
After their deliverance from slavery, God gives his people a vision for their future. The odds seem overwhelming and everyone wants to turn back. Only two, Joshua & Caleb, lean in with faith. Will we be like Joshua or the crowd? From Numbers 13-14.
The return of Jesus may feel like it has taken forever. Yet the confession of the church has always been, “Jesus is coming soon.” Because it is soon, Peter encourages believers to make every effort to be ready to welcome him. Are you ready and excited? From 2 Peter 3:3-14.
Many followers of Jesus may feel stuck in their walk. A lack of transformation or ongoing struggle with sin can be discouraging. Peter reminds believers that change is possible because of God’s divine power in us. Because of that power, we can experience transformation. From 2 Peter 1:3-11.
There is a lot we can worry about in the world. Left unchecked, anxiety creates numerous problems. But God is big enough to handle the burdens we carry and invites us to release them to him. When we do, we resist the attacks of the enemy. From 1 Peter 5:6-11.
In order for the church to be healthy and fulfill its mission, it must have healthy leaders to steward it well. Peter wrote to these believers about the kinds of Elders who should shepherd God’s flock. The church also has a responsibility to follow their leadership. From 1 Peter 5:1-5.
God has given believer’s abilities to use to administer his grace to others. Are you using yours? From 1 Peter 4:7-11.
Living for Christ in a broken world is hard. Peter knows followers of Jesus will need a mentality that helps them face adversity. He wants to help them prepare so they aren’t ambushed by pressures from the world. From 1 Peter 4:1-6.
Suffering can often seem pointless and random. Yet the suffering of Jesus had a purpose: to bring us to the Father. The patience of God, who waited in the days of Noah, is waiting on you to come to Jesus. From 1 Peter 3: 18-22.
We live in a broken world where people doing good are mistreated and suffer hardship. How are followers of Jesus to respond to unjust attacks? How can we use this suffering as a platform to shine the light of Christ? From 1 Peter 3:8-17.
Marriage is hard work, even in the best of circumstances. Peter speaks to husbands and wives to challenge them to go against the cultural norms and focus on the most important thing. In doing so, he gives hope to those who are struggling in this primary relationship. From 1 Peter 3:1-7.
Our great enemy certainly uses outside influences against us. But he also has a strategy to use our own desires to self sabotage. Peter wants believers to have a heads up and a plan to resist his tactics. From 1 Peter 2: 11-17
In light of God’s work in our lives and his calling to be holy, some old things need to go. When we get rid of those things, we desire to be filled up by him. Just as a newborn baby craves milk, the born again believer should crave to be fed the word. From 1 Peter 2:1-10.
Christians swim upstream in the world. The call to “be holy” is an enormously difficult, but essential in living a life for God. How can we do that? Peter offers us some instruction. From 1 Peter 1.
Trials and hardships are a universal human experience. It is so easy to wonder why we are experiencing this pain. In today’s text Peter is going to help the believers understand that God is using those trials to refine their faith and make it stronger. From 1 Peter 1:6-9.
Travel to a foreign country can remind us how much we don’t fit in. But what about when you stand out at home? A life lived for Jesus will mean we are swimming against the tide of culture. By keeping our eyes on our true home, we can find courage and strength. From 1 Peter 1:1-5.
Cravings are a part of our normal appetite. Jesus says if that hunger is directed towards being right with God, we will receive it. From Matthew 5:6.
Bankruptcy is not a fun place to be, but can offer protections for a new start. Jesus offers the spiritually bankrupt something even better: the Kingdom. The first Beatitude about the poor in spirit is the beginning to unlocking the resources of Heaven. From Matthew 5:3.
A lack of vision is debilitating. Clarity of vision is life-saving. Jesus says those who have a pure heart will see him clearly. Is there anything in your life that is hindering you from seeing him clearly? If so, Jesus offers us a way forward. From Matthew 5:8
We live in a world that is short on peace. Yet Jesus offers abundant peace. When we have it and live in it, there are many blessings to be had. From Matthew 5.
Jesus, even in his perfection and love for others, received harsh treatment. Although innocent, eventually his life would be taken. When we live for Jesus, we too should expect a certain level of opposition. How we respond to it is an important part of our witness. From Matthew 5:10-12.
Easter is a celebration that the resurrection of Jesus enables us to also be made alive. When we are in Christ, we are made new and the old is gone. When that transformation happens, we don’t want to look back. From Colossians 2-3.
We are a blessed people. Because I have been blessed, I can be a blessing to others. When we are generous with our blessings, we plant seeds for a future harvest. From 2 Corinthians 9.
Jesus spoke about generosity in a unique way. Rather than out of compulsion, Jesus framed it with a heart of joy and eagerness. But how does one develop that mentality? His answer: it comes by seeking a greater treasure. From Matthew 13.
Many people in the world today have never heard of the good news of Jesus. The task of reaching them will come with a cost. Our sacrificial and financial investment to reach others for Christ will only happen if we believe Jesus is worth it. That was true for the churches in Macedonia and it should also be true for those of us who’ve experienced salvation. From Romans 15.
We are honored to have Jeff Shortridge as our special guest speaker. Jeff will encourage us with a message on giving cheerfully and generously, as God blesses those who give from the heart.
When the church is fulfilling its mission mandate to make disciples and baptize in the name of Jesus, growth occurs. Today we celebrate all that God has been doing among us. But we also have an eye to the future and are ready to make room for the next generation of people who will come to Christ.
Throughout scripture God often spoke through other people to communicate. Has it ever occurred to you that God could be speaking to you through the words of others? How do you know it is God and not just another person?
Pain is a common human experience, but our reaction to it varies widely. Paul uses his own pain as an example of God’s grace to encourage others who are also going through hardship. Perhaps it is time for you to use your pain in a similar way. From 2 Corinthians 12.
The way we view our work is important. While everyone enjoys a paycheck, the Christian has deeper motivations. Our work is a witness and an opportunity for generosity. From 2 Thessalonians 3.
There is no shortage of deception in today’s world. It takes discernment to find truth. The church in Thessalonica was struggling with some false news and needed clarity. Paul, Silas, & Timothy write to encourage them to stand on truth and find encouragement that evil is always subject to the power of God.
In this opening to 2 Thessalonians, the young church is facing significant hardship & persecution. Paul, Silas, and Timothy want them to think correctly about their sufferings and that God will make things right. While we wait for his coming, do you believe God can work through you to bring goodness into a dark world?
As Paul concludes his first letter to this young church, he challenges them to consider what their role is in building up leaders and encouraging those who are struggling. From 1 Thessalonians 5:12-22
One of the things Scripture anticipates the most is the second coming of Jesus. Yet we have many questions about how and when it will happen. Paul & Silas write to this young church in Thessalonica to clear up some confusion so they will know how to live in light of his return.
Modern America and ancient Thessalonica have a lot in common. The church can easily be compromised by sexual sin. Paul & Silas encourage both of us to bring our sexual formation under the authority of Jesus.
Christianity can be hard at times, especially when you are away from people you love. Paul will inspire us how to show up for our Christian brother’s and sister. From 1 Thess 2 & 3
How do people know our message and our lives are authentic? Paul & Silas map out for us some guidance to make sure our words and witness are consistent. From 1 Thessalonians 2.
As Paul reconnects with the church in Thessalonica, his heart is full of joy. Faith is alive and the fruit of the gospel is growing. Although a young church, they already have a faith worth imitating. Do we have a faith that serves as a model for others?
Jesus in his final moments on earth, with all the authority of heaven, communicated his instructions to his disciples. Those objectives continue today. As stewards of his church, how are we doing with the mission he gave us?
Jesus is questioned about what is most important. We expect him to answer to love God. But Jesus continues the second most important thing is to love your neighbor.. In this message we explore ways you can be a better neighbor.
The disciples wanted to know how someone could become the greatest in the Kingdom. Jesus had a surprising answer that encouraged them to look to the youngest as a model.
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the externals of having our life together. But Jesus isn’t content with appearances. He cares about the condition of our heart and encourages us to take a look at what might need some cleaning.
Right actions are important. But Jesus takes it to a whole other level by commanding us to examine our motives. They matter to Jesus and they should matter to us as well. From Matthew 6.
It is easy to make judgments based on appearances. But Jesus reminds us our assessment can often be wrong. He invites us to a redemptive way of helping others with their struggles only after we’ve considered our own struggles first.
In a world full of hate, Jesus commanded his followers to respond in a completely different, other-worldly way. While it may seem impossible, God has modeled and shown us the way of how to love our enemies.
“You say one thing but do another.” In a penetrating question, Jesus asks his followers why this is true of them. By hearing the question for ourselves we can aim for better alignment between our beliefs and obedience.
In Pastor Wes’s return. We open up the book of 1 Peter. This is a powerful message on Easter Sunday learning about how Jesus is a living hope in our lives.
Bret Devine gives a compelling message about the reward of following Jesus. We learn today how it is not about us and not about what we get.
Today’s message is about how deep is the father’s love for us. Doug Vogel will speak on how our relationship with our earthly father affects our relationship with our heavenly father.
Who are you going to invite? Todays sermon is on the power of an invitation. Jesus was the greatest inviter of all time. His invite had no preference or criteria of any kind. His invitation had compassion and purpose. Listen now to learn how to apply those things to your invitation.
Mark Ingmire gives a message on prayer. We will walk through the book of Luke and learn from Jesus how to pray.
Join us as we learn what it means to study our bible and the impact that it has in our church and our community.
Buddy Bell gives a compelling sermon about dying to self. He teaches on how that “it’s a must” to die to self to receive the promises of God.
Todays message is about compassion and how to show it to our neighbors.Take a journey with us as we learn about how Abraham showed compassion to some traveling strangers and how we can learn to be more compassionate to the people around us.
We all have spiritual gifts and it is important to use them for God’s glory. In order to keep the fire burning for Christ we have to develop spiritual disciplines. Satan will try to use fear or other distractions to keep us from fulfilling what God has planned for us. We must keep fueling the fire each day to be used by God.
Day 28: Saturday // February 3
Matthew 28:16-20
We have been commanded and given the authority of Jesus to make disciples. How have you been engaged in the King’s mission? What role are you playing to help others become a follower of Jesus? What would you desire to do but are fearful to try? How does the promise of the presence of Jesus encourage you? As we conclude these 28 days, ask Him for the confidence to walk in his authority, to point people to the way of life in Jesus, and to offer them the freedom and peace of a life lived for Jesus.
Day 27: Friday // February 2
Matthew 25:31-46
In this difficult passage, the goats are condemned, not because they wouldn’t do for God, but because they neglected to do for others. Ignorance was not a valid excuse. Doing for others is doing for Jesus. As you go about your day, ask the Lord to give you his eyes so that you can see the needs the Father sees. Ask for the wisdom of how to alleviate the suffering of others. Seek his forgiveness for the times when you neglected to respond to an opportunity.
Day 26: Thursday // February 1
Matthew 25:14-30
Are you being faithful with what is entrusted to you? Which of these three people do you identify with the most? Is your inclination to bury it for safety or to invest it for a return? Ask the Lord today to help you be a faithful steward with the resources he has entrusted to you. How can you use them for Kingdom purposes? If he gives you more, pray for a heart that produces more for the Lord.
Day 25: Wednesday // January 31
Matthew 25:1-13
We expect first responders and our military to be ready at a moment’s notice to act when needed. What about followers of Jesus? We should live lives ready to receive the second coming of our King. Jesus indicates in this parable that it is possible for believers to have good intentions, but fall into a sense of apathy and unpreparedness. Examine your own readiness today. How has your oil run out? Have you been sleeping when you should have been preparing? Offer your sense of readiness to the Lord and commit to living in a way that is ready for his return at any time. Ask him to show you how you should be better prepared.
Day 24: Tuesday // January 30
Matthew 23:1-12
Jesus’ harshest words weren’t for the pagans or “sinners…” they were there for the religious people who thought they “had it all together”. They didn’t live out the principles and holy instruction on they talked about, teaching us that just knowing the information doesn’t lead to automatic life transformation! Ask the Lord today to keep you from any hypocrisy. Pray that your words are in alignment with your actions. Ask him for a humble heart to live as the servant of Jesus.
Day 23: Monday // January 29
Matthew 22:34-39
In a busy world where we know we can’t do everything, we’ll sometimes ask “what is the most important thing I must do?” Jesus answers this question by commanding us to love God and love our neighbor. Everything else revolves around these two items. Pray for our church today to grow in our love for God. Ask him to help us grow deeper in our devotion and passion to live for him and love him with our whole heart. Also pray that we may love our neighbors as we should.
As Executive Director of Mission Alive, a church planting ministry, Tod Vogt, was in on the planning of Redland Hills from the very beginning. He was in town on Sunday to celebrate the church’s 10th birthday.
Day 22: Sunday // January 28
Matthew 20:29-34
These are two powerful words: “Jesus stopped.” Consider that the Son of God was not so busy that he didn’t have time to stop and hear the cries of two blind beggars. Take a moment to praise God today for his compassion, his listening, and His action in your life. Pray for those around us who need that same touch of compassion. Ask God to keep you from quickly passing by those who are crying out for help.
Day 21: Saturday // January 27
Matthew 18:1-14
Children are important to God, and an important part of this church family. God holds them up as a model of faith. We have a sacred responsibility to invest in them, grow their faith, and disciple them in the ways of Jesus. Spend today praying for the children in our church. Pray that each one develops a personal faith in Jesus that will remain with them throughout their lives. Ask the Lord to protect them from evil. Pray for parents to have wisdom to raise our kids well in a complicated world. Ask a blessing on Collin and all of our teachers who are offering of themselves to encourage and build up each little life become a thriving child of God.
Day 20: Friday // January 26
Luke 4:14-21
The mission of Jesus was clear: the poor, freedom, sight, liberation of the oppressed, proclamation. This was the very first text ever preached at Redland Hills on this day, ten years ago. As we think about the beginning of the second decade of this church, what is your purpose that God is calling you to? What purpose does God want to fulfill through the life and ministry of this church in the coming years? Pray over yourself and this church to be focused on carrying out the mission and ministry of God. Ask Him to keep us in alignment with His will. Pray for clarity in our purpose, just as Jesus did in the garden.
Day 19: Thursday // January 25
Redland Hills launched on January 26, 2014. That means today is the last day of the first decade of our church’s story. As we close one decade and step into the next, it is appropriate we are thanking God by looking back and looking ahead.
Morning Prayer Matthew 6:16-18
Begin today by offering any hunger you may experience to the Lord. Our purpose is to draw near to him. Seek to live out the heart of these verses by not drawing the attention or praise of people and nullify your heavenly reward. Let hunger be a way to remind you to pray.
Spend some time thanking God throughout the morning for the first decade of the life of this church. Praise him for salvations, ministry impact, services performed for others, and your own breakthrough that spurred your own spiritual growth. Scroll through the church directory (available via the church website) and thank God for specific people who have had an impact on you. Even if you have been with us for only a short time, what are you grateful for?
Noon Prayer
As we prepare to enter the second decade of Redland Hills Church, what are you dreaming about for the kingdom? What are you longing for the Lord to do in this church and community? The Lord invites us to ask him for big things! Don’t hesitate to offer to him your hopes and desires for a movement of the Holy Spirit. Make a list of things that you are petitioning to God. Play a worship song to praise him, and thank him in advance for answering your prayers and for the victories he will give.
Evening Prayer
Prayer gathering at 6 PM in the Worship Center
Tonight we will assemble for prayers, worship, and to break the fast with communion.
Day 18: Wednesday // January 24
Matthew 16:21-27
Rewards are a powerful incentive. We do many things to get reward points, financial rewards, and recognition rewards. How often do you consider your eternal rewards that come from Jesus? It is easy to seek after the wrong rewards that come from the world. Jesus instructs us to lay down our lives, carry our cross, and receive his eternal reward. If he were sitting across from you and having a conversation, what would you ask him about this? Where are you struggling to live out his calling?
Day 17: Tuesday // January 23
Matthew 13:44-46
Imagine discovering an incredibly valuable treasure. What is your reaction to to what you have found? How does that compare with your relationship to Jesus? Are there other more important priorities getting in the way of making Jesus your first priority? Are you making sacrifices to obtain that “one thing” that is the most valuable to you? Talk to Jesus about your priorities and ask him to help you keep your focus on making him your main passion.
Day 16: Monday // January 22
Matthew 13:1-23
In one of Jesus’ most iconic parables, he describes four types of soil: the hard path, the rocks, the weed-infested, and the good earth. Each of us knows people who are in these four categories. Take a moment to place one or two names in each category. What are their needs? Why is the soil conditioned in that way? Pray for the seed of the gospel to fall in their hearts, and that God will have transformed their heart into fertile soil. Conclude your prayer with a desire to be the soil that produces 100 times what was sown. May the Lord use you to produce a crop that multiplies the investment made in us.
We welcomed Mark Jackson this week as our speaker. After serving as a high school teacher and coach, Mark served with Fellowship of Christian Athletes for 13 years. Most recently he was an associate pastor at Mulder Church here in Redland and loves this community.
Day 15: Sunday // January 21
Matthew 11:25-30
What a beautiful invitation! We are invited to learn from Jesus, to hand him our burdens, and to receive his rest. What burdens are your carrying right now? Visualize being with Jesus like you are visiting an old friend. Talk to him about your life, your feelings, and the weight you are carrying. What is he saying to you? What comfort do you feel by him listening and acting with compassion towards you?
Day 14: Saturday // January 20
Matthew 10:16-42
How often are you anxious about having the right words for a situation? What about fear of rejection when sharing your faith? Begin your prayer today with asking for Holy Spirit words and courage to live and walk in faithfulness to him. It will be hard, which is why Jesus describes why following him as carrying a cross themselves. Pray for the strength to bear your cross and keep laying down your life for him.
Day 13: Friday // January 19
Matthew 9:35-38
Our Lord is a Lord of compassion. Jesus doesn’t just see crowds. He sees each person, their pain, and works to meet their needs. Several prayers arise out of the text today. First, ask the Lord that we would be proclaimers of good news to the world around us. Second, ask God to give us greater works of compassion for those who are suffering. Third, he tells us to ask for workers for the harvest. So let’s start asking!
Men and women have sought to understand the will of God from the earliest days of creation. Let’s be honest, it isn’t easy. Yet scripture provides some guidance and examples to help us in our understanding to be able to discern the voice of our Shepherd.
More than half of your Bible is called the “old” part. What does that even mean? How do we relate to it? If you want to understand all that Jesus is for us, you’re going to need this part of your Bible.
In this conclusion to Acts, Paul has an unexpected layover in Malta on the way to Rome. God has a purpose for it. God also has a purpose for the unplanned stops in your life too. Part 20 from Acts 28.
Paul has a promise from God he is going to Rome. Yet everything is going wrong on the journey and it looks impossible. It is in the shipwrecks of life when we learn to fully trust the promises of God. Part 19 from Acts 27.
Under arrest, Paul stands before powerful and corrupt people. He never wastes an opportunity to put in a good word for Jesus. Don’t waste your opportunities either. Part 18 from Acts 24-26.
As Paul pursues his mission, the struggles will increase. Don’t be caught off-guard when following Jesus is hard and costly. Jesus is with you in the storm. Part 17 from Acts 20-23.
Goodbyes can be hard. It was for Paul as he left Ephesus. But in the goodbye there was an opportunity for ministry we can learn from. Part 16 from Acts 20.
The gospel enters a city of great learning. Paul has the opportunity to share the most important information in the world. Part 15 from Acts 19.
Corinth was a rough place to try and start a church. Paul starts his ministry there in the marketplace. Your career may also be your calling to minister in a difficult environment. Part 14 from Acts 18.
It’s easy to be dismayed with the state of the world. How is a Christian to respond to an increasingly secular world? Paul’s visit to Athens offers us a helpful and hopeful path forward. Part 13 from Acts 17.
Disruptions are frustrating. But what if God is the one frustrating your plans? Learning to recognize God’s hand in our roadblocks is the key to being redirected to accomplish his purposes. Part 12 from Acts 16.
In the earliest days of the church a massive dispute arose over how people were saved. Faith alone? Do we still have to keep the law? Their ability to sort this out meant the gospel would stay good news. Part 11 from Acts 15.
God assembled an incredible church in Antioch and gave them leaders to disciple them. The Holy Spirit selects two of them to be sent into the nations. It is a lesson for us in listening to and obeying the voice of the Holy Spirit. Part 10 from Acts 13.
The gospel encountered many cultural, national, and racial barriers. Yet none of these were too big for God to breakthrough. The first obstacle was his own people. Part 9 from Acts 10.
God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. A few people invest in a city that becomes a major sending church. He can also use you in an extraordinary way. Part 8 from Acts 11.
A radical transformation takes place in the church’s greatest persecutor. God decides to use his enemy as his greatest witness for the gospel. He also has the power to radically use you. Part 7 from Acts 9 with guest speaker Paul Evans.
“Why did God let this happen?” is a common question. While we may never understand the full picture, the stoning of Stephen is a reminder that God is working even in the worst circumstances. Part 6 from Acts 6-8
Unfortunately, doing good isn’t always rewarded. Sometimes it comes with a price. Will the church fulfill its calling regardless? Part 5 from Acts 5.
The first few chapters of Acts look like the perfect church. Fortunately, Luke doesn’t whitewash history. Their struggle is both a warning and encouragement for us. Part 4 from Acts 4-5.
The church is born in a move of the Spirit. But what will it do? What will it look like for these people to do life together? Part 3 from Acts 2-4.
During a season of waiting, the first believers receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Out of this moment the nations are invited respond to the message of Jesus and receive the gift as well. Part 2 from Acts 2:1-41
The resurrection of Jesus wasn’t the end of the story, but just the beginning. Luke lets us know this movement is getting ready to expand to the ends of the earth. Part 1 from Acts 1:1-11
The resurrection of Jesus comes with promises for you. Don’t miss God’s invitation to come alive! From Romans 8.
Jesus does a big free food giveaway and the crowd grows. But it won’t be free food that keeps them following. A transformation must take place to keep following him. From John 6.
Jesus makes a big statement about his exclusive nature–he is the way and the truth. What happens when we compromise this truth? From John 14.
In Matthew 5:43 Jesus commands us to love our enemies, but if we’re honest, that can be hard. This week we’re offering 3 ways to love your enemies!
Jesus invites the world to follow him. Yet Jesus is very clear discipleship comes with a cost. In Luke 14 he provides full disclosure and calls us to have considered the implications.
In Matthew 5 Jesus says people who experience mistreatment for his name are blessed. In fact, they choose joy in midst of it. How can we develop persecution-proof hearts?
In Mark 9 it looks like Jesus is taking things a little too far. But he’s urgently pleading with us to take sin more seriously in our lives. Will we listen and take action?
All of us have or will have some heavy burdens. Living in Christian community means we help others with their burdens and we receive help with ours.
Human nature uses people to our own selfish advantages. Jesus flips our natural tendencies upside down and leads by example to show us how community should really function.
We naturally build community based on affinity. When Jesus builds his community, they seemed incompatible. Yet Jesus invited them to journey together.
When our physical hearts are showing alarming symptoms, we take action. Why shouldn’t our spiritual heart be any different?
Our technology is amazing, but it can be exhausting. If we are going to respond to Jesus’ invitation to rest, it means we will have to turn some other things off.
The Sabbath in Jesus’ day had lots of rules. God’s heart for Sabbath wasn’t rule keeping, but restoration. It was a gift pointing to a person: Jesus.
We have an epidemic that comes from a lack of rest. But this isn’t God’s design. God created a divine rhythm that includes the gift of rest. Be sure not to miss it.
The Christmas story includes an insecure king who wanted his name to be great. In the end he becomes a largely forgotten ruler in the shadow of a baby whom we still celebrate as the King above all kings.
Being known is both wonderful and frightening. Will others still love me if they knew what was on the inside? Psalm 139 celebrates a God who knows us and still loves us.
Our lives are filled with seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Where will we find help to make it? Psalm 121 reminds us we have a God who is our helper.
We live in a world where most things have a limited shelf life. There is one thing that never expires: the love God has for. That is worth giving thanks for. From Psalm 136.
With only hours to live, Jesus and his disciples sang a song together. What was that song? How is it possible to sing of life while facing death? Psalm 118 has an answer.
How big is big? David uses everything he can think of to describe to us how big is God’s love. Psalm 103 invites us to consider this massive gift and how it benefits us.
We gather regularly for the praise of God on Sunday. But it’s easy to let life rob us of that joy. Can we still have that same spirit of praise on Wednesday? Psalm 95 is an invitation to worship, but also a warning not to learn the hard way.
If you could spend one day anywhere, where would it be? For the writer of Psalm 84 the answer is clear: anywhere God is.
Joy is a universally sought after emotion. As Christians, not only do we want it for ourselves, but we want the world to know it also. Psalm 66 & 67 are the invitation.
There are times when our soul feels parched. What do you do to find relief and hope again? Psalm 42 offers us guidance.
Coverups are usually brought into the light. In Psalm 32 and 51 David encourages us to join him in finding freedom from the darkness.
If God is good, why does bad happen? Is he helpless? Does he care? Is he punishing? Is it his plan? Pastor Wes explores several scriptures to help us wrap our mind around how God is involved in our deepest moments of pain to bring about redemption.
How much of the world has God determined in advance? Do we really have free choice? Did God choose me or did I choose God? For Further Reading: hand in Hand:The Beauty of God’s Sovereignty and Meaningful Human Choice by Randy Alcorn
In an age of constant scams, our skepticism is high. How should modern people think about the New Testament? Can I trust the Bible?
In John’s last part of his vision, he helps us look forward to all that God is and has for us. Part 9 of Victor’s Crown: Revelation.
All the build up comes to this, the final events of the end time before the new earth. Part 8 of Victor’s Crown: Revelation
An epic rivalry plays out in the world. Which team will you play for? Part 7 of Victor’s Crown: Revelation.
John sees something terrifying coming in the future. It functions as an early warning system so that believers can share with others in love. From Revelation 12-16
How are Christians to live in light of the resurrection? Part 5 of Victor’s Crown: Revelation. July 3, 2022.
The 7th and final seal causes a pause in the action of heaven. Part 4 of Victor’s Crown: Revelation.
John experiences the worship of heaven and the breaking of 6 seals. Part 3 of Victor’s Crown: Revelation
Individual churches have both strengths and growth areas. In the beginning words of Revelation, Jesus has some messages he wants delivered to some specific churches. We get the benefit of reading their mail.
The gospel can bring amazing and powerful change…if we persevere to allow God to work through us.
Thomas is widely known as “doubting Thomas.” Yet his doubt was only a brief moment in his extraordinary life. How does Jesus and the other disciples respond to him? We need the same treatment in our doubts as well.
The story of Zacchaeus is taught to kids, but also challenges adults. It’s a reminder of God’s heart for lost people and the obstacles they face in seeing Jesus.
Daily distractions abound. What if those distractions were having an impact on our relationship with Jesus? Martha is a great reminder that you can be busy for Jesus and miss the friendship of Jesus.
Failure is an experience we all have. Will failure define you or refine you. Jesus wanted failure to refine Peter and use it as his platform for ministry. He might do the same thing in your life.
A religious leader approaches Jesus with some questions. Jesus’ answers come as a surprise.
Most days are ordinary, but some we remember for centuries. What happened on the original Easter Sunday would reverberate for the ages. The impact is felt, not just in the lives of the original disciples, but ours as well.
Without paying attention, we can drift away from our relationship to Jesus. Sometimes we don’t even notice it. But God calls us to transformation and greater righteousness. In the conclusion to the series, Pastor Wes discusses how God works in our lives to make us more like Jesus.
We all enjoy others doing for us. If we aren’t careful, we can drift from being the servant Jesus has called us to be to wanting to be served. Even the disciples struggled with it. Listen in on how Jesus challenges them.
Your life has a spiritual tempo and your tempo should match the rhythm of the redeemer. How do we practice moving at Jesus’ pace? Slow down and listen as Chaplain John Richardson brings the message this week.
The church can be equally susceptible to drifting from its God-given purpose. Listen as Pastor Wes speaks about ways we can be more eager to help the poor and avoid cynicism. Let this message encourage you to build relationships and help your default posture be “yes.”
The pandemic has made gathering difficult over the last two years. An essential function of what it means to be a church is rooted in the gathering of community. We all need community to feel encouraged, to flourish and to thrive.
The “I don’t care,” or apathetic outlook, especially the spiritual kind, can kill the soul and destroy the mission of the church. If you find yourself feeling this way, ask God for feeling again, seek out those with a spiritual zeal and/or find one way to strengthen your serve muscle for the glory of God. Ask God to awaken your heart and let go of that numb feeling.
When we face criticism we can easily drift from God’s purpose for us. Ask yourself, “Who am I living for?” Don’t let the criticisms of others deflate and destroy God’s purpose in you.
When we get distracted or lose interest, our attention goes elsewhere. That’s normal in everyday life, but dangerous when it comes to our faith. This first installment of our Drift series reminds us to pay attention to our relationship with Jesus.
Love can sometimes manifest itself in gifts. But gifts aren’t sufficient to define love. It’s something bigger and more challenging, which is why you’ll need God to really love other people.
Listen as Taylor Hammett, guest pastor from North End Collective, brings a message about being an apprentice of Jesus! Pastor Taylor speaks about how Jesus doesn’t just invite us to believe in Him or applaud Him for what He’s done for us, but to be more like Him in all aspects of our lives! So, who is Jesus calling you to become?
We can listen to, or be given some really bad advice sometimes. In this message you will hear about how it matters who you listen to. Even when ignorance or pride gets in the way we can seek God’s wisdom through His word, or from those in our spiritual community.
Many of us don’t think we have great memories, but there is something powerful about committing God’s word to memory for our transformation. Coming from the Psalms, Pastor Wes provides some practical help to hide scripture away in your heart.
Many of us find ways to avoid being alone. But moments of solitude can be rich times of being fed by God. Student Pastor, Taylor Housel, looks at how Jesus sought out times alone with his Father and how you can purposefully pursue the same.
Waiting can be frustrating when it doesn’t meet our expectations. Waiting isn’t “wasted time,” sometimes, God uses it as a tool. When we look at waiting with a spirit of gratitude it changes the way we wait.