Light of Christ Radio: Recent Episodes
Pastors Tom & Paula Graves
Light of Christ Radio is a radio and audio podcast ministry to reach people world wide with the Good News of Jesus Christ through Biblical storytelling.
The church in Antioch fasts, prays, and listens, and the Spirit sets apart Paul and Barnabas. They begin to take the Gospel out despite opposition.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/08/09/compassionate-response/A video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/HirQ8yUI8PQ
Saul, once a persecutor, becomes a bold proclaimer of Christ. His transformation is immediate and disruptive—both to his former allies and to the church.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/08/02/preaching-that-jesus-is-the-son-of-god/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/MW7vtyO8FeM
Peter had boldly bragged and then miserably failed in his loyalty to Jesus. After the resurrection, Jesus meets Peter where he is and restores him so that Peter can carry out the tasks ahead.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/07/26/a-need-for-wholeness/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/mQ4ECH-Ja20
In the Parable of the Prodigal Son, the prodigal repents and returns home to a grace-filled welcome by his father.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/07/19/a-costly-independence/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/qXlDNFRzTmg
The disciples had failed to remove a demon from a boy. Jesus achieved the victory through prayer.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/07/12/from-the-mountain-top-to-the-valley/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/nykOkejBojc
The Jewish leadership used a woman caught in adultery to try to entrap Jesus. Jesus demonstrated how there is hope for sinners.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=22588A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/Ud0Zb3rdVdY
Through Jairus' daughter and the woman with the issue of blood, we see faith expressed in persistence, courage, and trust in Jesus, even when hope seems lost.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=22513A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/qyywsUeENk8
The Gerasene man's transformation reveals Jesus' power to heal trauma, restore identity, and return people to community and purpose.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/06/21/who-we-think-jesus-is-matters/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/eyK7wFOX88g
The healing of the paralytic shows that spiritual restoration is foundational. Forgiveness releases us from guilt and shame, opening the door to total healing.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/06/14/wholeness-through-divine-intervention/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/xvAburoEpKc
The story of Zacchaeus reveals that wholeness begins when we trust Jesus' authority, leave what binds us, and respond to His call.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=22300A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/HPHk2gV8o8A
Saul's story shows us that before God transitions our lives, He transforms our hearts. Real transition stars inside.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/05/31/when-god-interrupts-our-direction/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/5TVYCvsSFJs
Pentecost transitions the disciples into world changers and demonstrates how God empowers us for new assignments.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=22153A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/oBEtHlcBwLc
The Ascension marks a turning point. Jesus leaves physically so the disciples can lead spiritually. Transition always pushes us from comfort to calling.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/05/17/jesus-opened-their-minds/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/fsxmfqLNNCg
Not all transitions are chosen. Ruth shows us how God works through grief, confusion, and loss to bring us into His bigger story. God is working in the dark places. What feels like an ending is often the beginning of redemption.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=21937A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/2za4nSef9Ww
Transition requires spiritual strength and divine assurance. God tells Joshua to be strong and courageous three times. Courage isn't the absence of fear; it's trusting God enough to move anyway.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/05/03/when-a-chapter-closes/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/wS6WKGfT9nE
The Red Sea moment teaches us that God does His greatest work when our situation looks impossible. Trust turns red seas into roads.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=21849A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/wcJfGrl4yRo
God doesn't call you because you're ready. He calls you because He is. This kind of transition begins with God promising to be with you.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/04/19/god-can-use-past-failures/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/UdnaKgn6ups
Sometimes God moves us before He explains why, teaching us faith in motion. When God says "go," He's not trying to take something from you but trying to give you something greater.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/04/12/gods-transitions-require-obedience/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ScCWkmnEITI
The resurrected Jesus explained how the Scripture told that the Messiah would suffer, die, and be resurrected.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/04/05/can-we-believe-the-resurrection/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/zIq2GVugfjM
The Festival of Tabernacles remembered how God had been present with the nation during the Exodus and looked forward to a time when this would happen again.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/03/29/godspresence-with-his-people/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/TG0p8QpPRW0
A blowing of the trumpet announced the 10 Days of Awe. This was a time of soul searching and repentance to prepare for the Day of Atonement. There, the people's sins were forgiven through the scapegoat and a sacrifice of a goat.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/03/22/the-days-of-awe/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/sEfUjfouvYw
God instituted the Festival of Pentecost in the Old Testament. It was a new beginning for the freed Hebrew slaves and foreshadowed a new beginning for the church.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/03/15/festival-of-weeks-shavuot-or-pentecost/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/qExLi2ioc7Y
God commanded that the Israelites offer a sheaf of the new harvest to guarantee the rest of the harvest. Jesus was the first fruit from the dead that guarantee's our resurrection.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/03/08/the-first-fruits-principle-2/A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/Lk092aPPoCk
In the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the people would remove the yeast from their homes. Yeast is a symbol of sin, and Jesus came to remove our sin.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/03/01/ready-to-roll-2/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/dyl_R1pKBp0
Just as God used the first Passover to free His people from Egypt, Jesus used the Passover to put the New Covenant in place for our salvationSeven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/02/22/holidays-with-a-purpose-2/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/R6SXw3g9wc8
Jesus again reveals His identity and purpose to His disciples only hours before His crucifixion.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/02/15/a-new-commandment-love-one-another/A video of this story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/lqbx0tiJGHw
Jesus reassured Martha that He was the resurrection and the life. This was during her grief over Lazarus's death. Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/02/08/jesus-has-a-divine-timetable/A video of the story:https://youtu.be/hk_Oz1d-wNY
As Jesus was trying to explain His identity to the Jewish leadership, He used the imagery of being a shepherd. This not only explains who He is, but what His purpose is.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=20836A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/8tdzG9FbLjo
After Jesus gave sight to a blind man, the Jewish leadership complained. Jesus used the image of a sheep gate to explain His purpose.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/01/25/true-sight-begins-with-jesus/A video of the text can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jyXql0B8Scw
Jesus is the light that overcomes darkness and guides our way.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/01/18/water-libation-tradition/A video of the text can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/znx4p0Rd5fA
Jesus described Himself as the Bread of Life. He is the one who sustains us and satisfies the longing of our souls.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2026/01/11/temptation-of-the-temporal/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/VU_-3GbMvoc
God gave the wise men the gift of seeking Jesus after they viewed the star for the newborn King of the Jews.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=20550A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/M6Q-Ns67rQU
Simeon and Anna praise the newborn Jesus at the Temple and tell of what He will do.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/12/28/obedience-can-be-worship/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/NY1_PgY7ceE
God gave Joseph multiple dreams to keep the baby Jesus safe. God can still give dreams today to guide us.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/12/21/choosing-the-path-of-grace/A video of the text can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/dIp2Az6dNDg
Zechariah breaks a nine-month silence with a song of praise to God.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/12/14/trusting-gods-wisdom/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/oZWAp4RTO7w
God gives us the gift of relationships. The story of the announcement of the birth of Jesus demonstrates our relationship with God. The story of Mary meeting with Elizabeth shows the gift of a relationship with others.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/12/07/god-can-use-ordinary-people/A video of the stories can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/owzmR9i_gYk
Zechariah had a surprising visit from an angel, who delivered an unexpected message. Even though he and his wife, Elizabeth, were old, they would have a child.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/11/30/being-faithful-during-trials/A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/a8xPy6od5X8
The Apostle Paul gave the Ephesian church and us an analogy to describe what God has given to enable us to fight spiritual battles.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/11/23/you-are-in-a-spiritual-battle-4/A video of the text can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/d05NB5AHtqA
Jesus had taught His disciples for three years. Now, as Jesus ascends back to heaven, He gives instructions for His disciples to wait for the power of the Holy Spirit so they can go make disciples.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=19966A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ETABegHoMjo
The night before His crucifixion, Jesus gave His disciples a warning. He warned them that the world would hate them because it hates Him. But they are to remain faithful.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=19878A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/Ht550bG2ycQ
As Jesus taught His disciples, He used Himself as the one they should model themselves after. They were to love others as He loved them.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=19740A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/qAg8bHJJaS0
Jesus called His disciples to follow Him, but He also told them to count the cost. This is still true for us today.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/10/26/the-cost-of-following-jesus/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/NULkG7OE_dE
Jesus gave His disciples instructions to go out by pairs to preach that the Kingdom of God is near. They were amazed at the healings that took place.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/10/19/paired-for-parnership/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/3dTMygLTAak
Jesus called His disciples to follow Him. As He taught them, He warned them and us of the consequences of not following.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/10/12/unmasking-the-hypocrisy/A video of the text can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/R9eb8MYomUA
After Jesus called His disciple to follow, He taught them with Parables. As followers of Jesus, we too, learn from these parables.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/10/05/ever-hearing-but-never-understanding/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/2WRv0UP70vw
Jesus set the ideal of discipleship and explained that He came to fulfill this and enable His followers to do the same.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/09/28/jesus-teachings-radically-reorient-our-worldview/A video of the text can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/GUTKPETTzeM
Jesus called His disciples to radically reorient their lives to follow Him. Today, we have the same call to follow Him.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=19251A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ssnu77LmI-M
God's plans for Abraham unfolded beyond comprehension. While Abraham's faith journey had its ups and downs, Abraham remained faithful to the end.Seven blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/09/14/living-a-fulfilling-life/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/_ZmowZIYQvo
Abraham, in his grief over Sarah's death, demonstrated a blend of sorrow and respect that honors her memory.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/09/07/navigating-the-tears-of-grief/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/iaYKzzUcwA0
God tested Abraham's faith by asking him to sacrifice his son, Isaac. This command challenged the very foundation of Abraham's hopes and promises.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/08/31/when-our-faith-is-tested/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/pBX-NF2CQ-Y
God was faithful to His promise of a son to Abraham and Sarah. But God's plan often unfolds in unexpected ways and in God's timing, not ours.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/08/24/god-is-faithful/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/9hc6tyJ4Lt0
Abraham's fear of Abimelech causes him to misrepresent Sarah as his sister, leading to complications and consequences.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/08/17/relapsing-into-my-sin/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/-V9MS2Mk1zs
The story of Sodom and Gomorrah shows how moral decay can lead to destruction. Our individual choices, like Lot, have profound implications for our lives and for those around us. Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=18683A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/xaS6RVOvNGo
We learn the power and importance of intercessory prayer in the story of Abraham pleading with God to spare Sodom and Gomorrah.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/08/03/gods-transparency-and-friendship/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/eHOPi_lnOk0
God visits Abraham and Sarah to promise them a son. This visit reveals their disbelief and illustrates how God meets us in our skepticism, calling us to step out in faith.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/07/27/the-lord-comes-to-us/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/e09d-3WBDEk
God establishes a covenant with Abram, highlighting His commitment to His people despite their flaws.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/07/20/god-almighty/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/F8UVBP2_-Jg
Sarai, feeling impatient for God's promise of a child, persuaded Abram to have a child with Hagar. This led to conflict in their relationship with the family and with God.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/07/13/when-reason-collides-with-faith/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/Wmb5f7gJ2ZY
Abram questioned God about the truth of His promises. God responded by a tangible act of making a covenant.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/07/06/god-speaks-to-us/A video of this text can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/RL4Yrs2P5Fg
Abram is embroiled in a conflict involving powerful kings but emerges victorious because of his faith in God.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/06/29/consequences-of-worldly-decisions/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/270nwjawfJk
Faced with the challenge of limited resources, Abram chooses to model patience and generosity. It illustrates how God can guide us through decision-making processes.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/06/22/trusting-gods-leading/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/QgHGSLhlFU8
Abram and Sarai travel to Egypt because of a famine. Out of fear, Abraham resorts to deception about Sarai's identity. We learn that fear can lead us to make morally questionable decisions.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/06/15/dont-run-from-the-test/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/FdsUNHP0u6w
God calls Abram to leave his homeland and family and gives promise of blessings. This is the beginning of God's covenantal relationship which will require a faith journey.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/06/08/the-pitfall-of-partial-obedience/A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/E_ay7_qrRKk
This story reminds us how human pride and ambition can lead to confusion and division when not directed by God’s will. It also sets the context for Abraham’s call.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/06/01/building-on-the-wrong-foundation/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ZC3X3hm6KxU
God's covenant with Abraham signifies His unyielding commitment to redeem and transform. The rainbow continues to remind us that we can trust God's promises and live as agents of His transformation.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/05/25/gods-climate-change/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/4G-dPxmELzI
In the floods of life, God's faithfulness is our anchor, guiding us toward new beginnings with unwavering hope and restoration.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/05/18/god-remembers-us/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/K6ZLcSvRliY
God's judgment is an opportunity for renewal and restoration. It invites us toward new beginnings with unwavering hope and restoration.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/05/11/guided-by-the-hand-of-god/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/OCMq0C2GOkI
Even in times of widespread corruption, God calls His people to a life of faith and obedience. Noah's example leads to righteousness and salvation.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/05/04/the-blessings-of-walking-with-god/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/OJc0aynf-DY
Despite the heartbreaking reality of sin, God's love in the reset offers us hope for redemption and transformation.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/04/27/the-war-against-humanity/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/HLZgv0qp_EM
Jesus had promised to rise in three days, but His followers had forgotten. The promise of resurrection still applies to believers today.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/04/20/jesus-promise-of-his-resurrection/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/XUnc9hQqBvs
Jesus entered Jerusalem with full knowledge of the evil that awaited Him. But the Father had given Him a purpose, and Jesus went forward to the cross even though not all would believe.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/04/13/death-awaited-jesus-in-jerusalem/A video of the text can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/hWEmmfvLoM8
Jesus willingly went to the cross despite the pain and mocking to pay the price for our sin.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=16994A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/yBBYrmOMG9A
The Jews continue to push their agenda in ignorance. Pilate caved into their pressure to save his position and ordered Jesus to be crucified.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/03/30/false-claims-against-jesus/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ljmXrUdBwsM
The Jewish leadership acted in blind ignorance as they condemned Jesus. Judas was ignorant of the forgiveness available to him.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/03/23/the-need-for-power-blinds/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/etOH8Pw4rSs
Though not mentioned, Satan is behind the evil in the battle in Gethsemane, the arrest of Jesus, and Peter's denial. The root of all these stories is a spiritual battle.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=16731A video of this story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/HRB2GkTlsk0
The disciples acted sinfully, but Jesus would become like them to give us all salvation.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/03/09/god-can-turn-what-was-meant-for-evil-into-good/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/lX8z5icvpfw
Paul and Silas are unfairly beaten and imprisoned, yet they look up to God by singing in jail.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/03/02/wrong-source-of-truth/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/I1npGklrcCo
Stephen had been unfairly brought to trial and was facing death. But still, he looked up to God.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=16495A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/MiFEUtVTojg
King Belshazzar mocked the God of Israel, then a hand writing on the wall appeared. Daniel was the only one who could read it because he looked up to God.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/02/16/mocking-god-has-consequences/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/En0k9d-7oKs
God had tried to call the people back to Himself, but they refused to listen. Their actions resulted in exile, and they began to look up.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/02/09/god-is-the-potter/A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/rZmhtHfVX04
Hezekiah was under attack by the Assyrians, and he knew he needed to look up to God for help.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/02/02/friends-in-sackclot/A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/k1QHHqrZ01g
Elisha gave Naaman instructions to be healed, but Naaman didn't want to follow them.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/01/26/wealth-but-no-health/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/DsJhA9HRzxs
Both Elijah and a widow needed to look up to God in hard times.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2025/01/19/the-guiding-god/A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/PQ79PEY9QNQ
Adam and Eve hid from God in shame after their fall into sin. God came searching for them because He wanted them to look to Him.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=15980A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/-z2fbKcZKo4
Mary and Joseph obey the law and present Jesus at the Temple. There, they are surprised by what two older people say about the baby.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=15724A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/fRXJIBRPXSI
God gave Joseph a dream to reveal the truth about Mary's pregnancy.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/12/22/god-gave-another-option/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/d7yCD2GxZ_I
When Mary greets Elizabeth, the Holy Spirit moves as they worship. John jumps in utero, and both women praise God.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/12/15/the-joy-of-the-unborn/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/EUxv-1UN-JA
While Zechariah is performing his Temple duties, an angel surprises him. Even though he and his wife are past child-bearing age, they will have a son who will prepare the way for Jesus.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/12/08/johns-coming-was-prophesied/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/Ve-Jh8jBBOM
This prophecy about the coming of Messiah shows how prophecy foretells, warns, gives hope, and demonstrates God's love, power, and plan.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/12/01/what-is-biblical-prophecy/A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/AYdh37G3PxU
Believers were praying for Peter in jail. But they were amazed when he was released supernaturally.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/11/24/the-politics-of-persecution/A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/M-8P-_tLWAw
When Peter set aside his tradition of avoiding Gentiles, he could observe the Gentile Pentecost. The Holy Spirit is for all believers.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/11/17/the-importance-of-witnesses/A video of the text can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/SaxWFBFMNXU
God gave two visions, one to Cornelius and one to Peter to facilitate their meeting. God was doing something new, and Peter needed a more open mind.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=15179A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/p1haiWZ-5ak
God had gotten Saul's attention on the road to Damascus, but the Jews didn't want to hear that Jesus was the Messiah.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/11/03/gods-surprising-plan-for-saul/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/rCaEiNT6abA
Saul had permission to go to Damascus to arrest Christians. On the way, Jesus stopped him in his tracks and caused him to rethink what he was doing.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/10/27/kicking-against-the-goads/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/8Szsig4fghM
At God's direction, Philip left a thriving ministry for an encounter on a lonely desert road.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/10/20/follow-god-when-it-sounds-crazy/Seven devotional podcasts begin here:https://www.buzzsprout.com/2308798/episodes/15857663A video of the text can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/QQsF7uxjZsA
Philip was forced out of Jerusalem because of persecution. He took the Gospel to Samaria, and many believed. The Spirit fell when Peter and John laid hands on the new believers.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/10/13/persecution-of-the-church/Seven devotional podcasts begin here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2308798/15784194A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/U8SiI63GAqA
The jealous Jewish leadership arrested all the apostles, but God let them out of prison. Once they were released, they continued to preach about Jesus.Seven coordinated blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/10/06/envy-disguised-as-defending-the-faith/Seven devotional podcasts begin here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2308798/15782564A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/7jvc1u6D-OY
Ananias & Sapphira create a plan to look good as donors to the church and keep some money for themselves. However, it doesn't go as planned.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/09/29/a-generous-heart-affects-others/Seven devotional podcasts begin here:https://www.buzzsprout.com/2308798/15752065A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/vOYXFYOf-1o
The Jewish leadership thought they had rid themselves of the "Jesus problem." But Peter and John healed a crippled beggar in Jesus' name and claimed Jesus was alive. The leadership decided to stop this Jesus movement. Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/09/22/temple-politics/Seven devotional podcasts begin here:https://www.buzzsprout.com/2308798/15743580A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/59TfjLNbmIE
Peter and John had been filled with the Holy Spirit. They didn't have much money, but they shared what they had: the power of God.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/09/15/the-significance-of-prayer/Seven devotional podcasts begin here:https://www.buzzsprout.com/2308798/15734005A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/to3Pq2ZcJM8
John the Baptist referred to Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. As a result, some of John's disciples begin to follow Jesus.Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/06/16/the-gift-of-spiritual-discernment-2/Seven audio devotions begin here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2308798/15245960A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ExpbR3L8e7Y
This is a short devotion on Matthew 4:1-11. For more like this see:https://www.compassofchrist.com
Jesus had just been baptized and then the Spirit led Him into the wilderness to tempt Him. Jesus knows what it is to be tempted.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/06/09/forty-is-a-time-of-testing/Seven devotional podcasts begin here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2308798/15201511A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/aMrF_yrpf2M
It was time for God to break in with His kingdom, but John must first prepare the hearts to receive what Jesus would do.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/06/02/the-timing-of-god/A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/lM2nv2T_Vbk
The Jews have successfully fought off the attack against them. Now what is the most appropriate way to celebrate?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/05/26/fear-of-the-jews/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/lBFufIZaOic
Haman is dead, but his decree to kill the Jews still stands. How can Mordecai and Esther save the Jews?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=13289A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/m250H_4LhC8
To this point in the story, Haman has gotten what he wanted. Now God works through Esther and Haman reaps what he has sown.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/05/12/communication-is-key/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/HqZdosOhq30
Mordecai had saved the king's life but never received any recognition. The delayed honor comes at just the right time.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=13197A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/f7F7Qz5GVsM
Esther must go to the king to save her people. But she risks death as she goes to him uninvited. Will the king extend his scepter to her or not?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=13114A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/lBpOcp4b4GA
Esther has won the beauty contest to be queen but has kept her Jewishness a secret. Now, the king has sent out a decree to kill all Jews. Has God placed her as queen for such a time?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/04/21/sackcloth-and-ashes/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/W7AjVllQAIo
Two dastardly plots are hatched in our story. One against the king and one against the Jews. What will be the result?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/04/14/doing-what-is-right/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/FqwsyzIHXtg
This is a story of how God can change an orphaned immigrant into a queen.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/04/07/who-was-xerxes/A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/-EJtV5AS2Wg
Jesus had repeatedly told His disciples that He would die and rise from the dead, but they didn't understand. Was this some parable? No, Jesus was alive!Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/03/31/faithful-women/A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/MMix0x0S_aQ
The people welcome Jesus into Jerusalem with great rejoicing, but as He nears the city, He weeps over it. There will be consequences for rejecting Jesus.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/03/24/when-following-the-lord-is-difficult/A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/mdL5cSMVepc
Jesus told parables to explain the Kingdom of Heaven a few days before His crucifixion. Last words are always significant.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/03/17/jesus-timing/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/F4dzKjzReRk
The Pharisees demanded by what authority He did things. Jesus answered with two questions. Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/03/10/who-gave-you-the-right/A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/eoRYU_7motM
Jesus told the Parable of the Banquet to demonstrate how God continues to invite us.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/03/03/is-the-lord-calling-you/A video of this story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/rTwqun-dER4
How do you tell people something they don't want to hear? Jesus did it by telling a parable.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/02/25/israel-the-vineyard/A video of this story may be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ebyxkwipZkE
Mark combines the story of the fig tree and Jesus in the Temple to tell a bigger storySeven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/02/18/wheres-the-fruit/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/HXnrHbreHBw
Paul and Silas had done everything God wanted them to, but still ended up in prison. How could God give them light there?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/02/11/the-spiritual-battle-is-real-2/A video of this story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/SvLyZsUJ420
Stephen was doing the work of the Lord and being persecuted. Where would Jesus shine light into the darkness of his murder?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/02/04/gods-purpose-in-signs-miracles-and-wonders/A video of this story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/q2dRBDtvWmo
The thief on the cross was in his last hour, but Jesus, the Light of the World, gave him hope.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/01/28/blessings-in-disguise/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/zsuW-utVZ3g
A woman was caught in adultery and was being threatened with stoning. Jesus brought light into the situation and continues to bring light into our lives.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/01/21/building-up-others-2/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/bVAC2E5lz88
Babylon had conquered Jerusalem and taken many people as exiles. These exiles were in a dark time. They were essentially prisoners in a foreign land. Where was God? Jeremiah wrote a letter to give these defeated people light in the dark.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/01/14/divine-guidance-gives-light/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/1Cg7RvdSpnw
Gentile astrologers see unusual phenomena in the sky and come to Jerusalem to see the newborn king of the Jews.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2024/01/07/being-drawn-to-jesus-3/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/4KgOgnym3oM
The birth of Jesus has fulfilled prophecy. Now Mary and Joseph fulfill Mosaic law as they present the baby Jesus at the Temple.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/12/31/following-gods-word-is-life-changing-2/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/aNXmdddMMAw
Luke tells the story of how Jesus was born, which fulfilled the prophecies of the Messiah.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=11646A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/rbaepwWOWRk
Joseph was upset to hear about Mary's pregnancy. Then an angel appeared to him in a dream with a surprising message.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/12/17/who-is-the-holy-spirit-2/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/QVM1fE8h4sw
An angel visited a young lady with a surprising announcement. Mary didn't completely understand but went forward in faith.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/12/10/god-sends-angels-to-ordinary-people-2/You may view a video of this story here:https://youtu.be/70_Gd_deK9A
The birth of John the Baptist was supernatural and fulfilled prophecies of old and an angel message to his father.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/12/03/blessings-from-obeying-the-lord-2/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/P6Trv84zY_A
Seven hundred years before Jesus was born, Isaiah prophesied that the people who walked in darkness would see a great light. Jesus came as the light of the world.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=11439A video of the story may be viewed here: https://youtu.be/RIm13yi4X7Y
The beloved disciple, John, wrote a letter about love to encourage believers to continue to follow Jesus.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/11/19/who-was-john/A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/WJksaUBIwbg
Peter wrote his second letter just a few months before his death. He wanted his readers (which includes us) to remember Jesus' promises no matter what happens in the world.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/11/12/the-promises-through-jesus/You can view a video of the text here:https://youtu.be/1blu6ENZc5A
Peter wrote this letter to encourage the persecuted believers. They and we need to keep our focus on the hope of Jesus as we endure trials.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/11/05/peters-first-letter/A video of the text can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/OvIJ4kM7Dks
The letter of James encourages us to live out our lives by putting our faith into action.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/10/29/who-was-james/A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/Gi5laR3oy1Q
God had instituted a covenant with His people through Moses. Now, the covenant of Jesus builds on that and improves it for us.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=11158A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/4L1BYU2H51s
The writer of Hebrews uses multiple quotes from the Old Testament to show how Jesus is greater than angels.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/10/15/who-were-the-hebrews/A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/Wf2y_5Z38t4
Paul sent a letter to his co-worker Titus, advising him on how to lead. Who was Titus and how can Paul's advice still help us today?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/10/08/who-was-titus/A movie of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/AtW11WCE42Y
This is Paul's final letter, written a few months before he was beheaded. In it, he passed the torch of leadership to Timothy. His words still apply to us today.Seven coordinatingly blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/10/01/passing-the-torch-of-leadership/ A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/ejFZv1KpUrM
Paul assigned Timothy to pastor in Ephesus to help correct some problems that the church was experiencing. Paul wrote what we now know as 1 Timothy to instruct and encourage Timothy in that assignment.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=10933You can view a video of this story here:https://youtu.be/kigZcBUfz7I
Shortly after writing the letter of 1 Thessalonians, Paul wrote another letter we know as 2 Thessalonians. The problems and persecution had worsened in Thessalonica since the first letter, and Paul wrote another letter to encourage the people.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=10896A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/4egPjII6nqk
The church of Thessalonica was under persecution and Paul wrote a letter to encourage them. He gave them and us ways to live with commitment .Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/09/10/who-were-the-thessalonians/A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/B-vvst3V-fU
Paul wrote a letter to the Colossian church to encourage them to focus on Jesus and gave them (and us) practical ways to live.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=10781A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/aCCg3T9db9o
Paul pens a poem to explain the attitude of Christ. Then he explains how we should live with that same attitude.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/08/27/who-were-the-philippians/
A video of this story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/0BxdtnjL12w
In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul retells the Gospel story and shows how we should live in its ways. There will be a battle, but God has given us tools to live strong.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/08/20/who-are-the-ephesians/
A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/mMCjwGE5HV4
The churches in Galatia have been confused by teachers who stress living by the law. Paul wrote to these churches to live by the Spirit in order to follow Jesus. This gives us insight into how to live to follow Jesus.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/08/13/who-were-the-galatians/
A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/T-SU7i6yX0g
Paul explains that Jesus has reconciled us and as a result, we, in turn, have a ministry of reconciliation. We are to act as ambassadors for Jesus.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/08/06/correction-and-conflict/
A video of this story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/Fr94-c_xoQ8
Paul had just explained that each believer has gifts to be used in the body of the church. Then he explains the best way to use these gifts - in love.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/07/30/the-love-chapter/
A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/yX67rxcJ5ok
Paul teaches about the spiritual gifts and how the church is to use them.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/07/23/have-spiritual-gifts-ceased/
A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/eUgocZDLcw8
God has given us each unique gifts and He desires that we join our gifts together to become the body. The Corinthians were struggling with this and Paul gives them and us some guidelines.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=10401
A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/IIseqM4JCwY
In his letter to the Roman church, Paul explained how the death and resurrection of Jesus is good news. Now Paul gives some practical ways to live out faith in Jesus.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=10370
A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/1DsGkD-IBEc
Paul urged the Roman church and us to speak out our faith as a declaration. But also to speak out so others can believe.
Seven Coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/07/02/are-you-right-with-god/
A video of the text can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/zLpUXN9QNm8
Paul had explained that all have sinned but the Good News is that Jesus came as the answer to that sin problem. Now that they are following Jesus, how should they live?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/06/25/revolt-against-sin/
A video of this story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/0SB9xTfMwQY
Paul writes to the Roman church about the good news of Jesus and what it means for them. We can learn from this today.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/06/18/a-letter-to-the-romans/
A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/T11PCCUdNSE
The Apostle Paul ends up in Athens alone. He notices all the idols and begins to share the Gospel of Jesus with the Athenians with mixed results.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/06/11/god-sends-people/
A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/BEzG9D51yVU
Persecution pushed Philip out of Jerusalem into Samaria. Philip brought the Good News of Jesus with him and most people began to follow Jesus. But there will always be an exception.Seven devotional blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/06/04/god-brings-good-from-persecution/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/Z9rVPhUDUVo
Jesus had told the disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit so they would be empowered to preach the Gospel. What would happen in Jerusalem?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/05/28/the-significance-of-meeting-together/A video of the story may be viewed here:https://youtu.be/dkdowJYWbDo
Solomon was the richest man on earth and had it all, yet he found that only God provided satisfaction.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/05/21/the-world-doesnt-satisfy/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/ITGpkrvZ-fs
David had been anointed king but had to run from Saul to save his life. Where was God in his struggle and how long would it last? Seven blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/05/14/dashed-expectations/A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/PDqnzwaC65g
Peter had denied Jesus three times before the crucifixion. Now, after the resurrection, what would Jesus say to him?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/05/07/what-do-i-do-when-i-am-confused/ A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/_F3FEZt8xYg
Peter was a devoted follower of Jesus. At the Last Supper, Jesus warned Peter that he would deny Him three times and Peter refused to believe it. Peter followed Jesus but was confronted by some who had seen him with Jesus.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/04/30/you-are-in-a-spiritual-battle-2/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/1xo75UqRvRQ
Peter had followed Jesus and observed all the things that He did. Then Jesus asked them, who do you say I am?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9832A video of this story may be viewed here:https://youtu.be/mBB9R2r4dtM
Jesus called Peter to be a fisher for men even though Peter felt unworthy. Jesus calls us to build His Kingdom and empowers our call.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9797A video of the story can be viewed here:
Disciples of Jesus mourned His death on Friday and Saturday and were surprised at His resurrection on Sunday. Yet, the prophets had foretold of a resurrection.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9748A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/lkY8ZSuQgw4
Zechariah prophesied that Israel's king would enter humbly on a donkey. Jesus entered Jerusalem on the Sunday before His crucifixion on a donkey.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9707A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/UeXiq8JA_BY
God kept His promise to the nation of Israel and provided a way for them to return to Jerusalem. Their return was not without opposition.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9647 A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/tgsJigvgbkQ
Jeremiah wrote a letter to those exiled from Jerusalem to Babylon. He encouraged them to continue to follow what God desired because God has plans for them. This story still applies to us today.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9622A video of this story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/hYsMr4wzIc0
Throughout the Old Testament, God used men called prophets to call the people back to Himself. Isaiah is an example of how God called these people and then gave them an assignment. Seven Coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9574A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/9Q8FsZThViE
God has used judges to rule His nation, but now the people demand a king. Samuel tries to warn them of the downside of a king, but God allows them to get a king.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/03/05/the-impact-of-good-character/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/6l-8JWA6Z0w
The nation of Israel has wandered in the desert for 40 years and now is ready to possess the Promised Land. What is the crazy battle plan that God gives them?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/02/26/the-lord-is-giving/A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/QIyBHsaPoGQ
The Israelites had seen God perform miracles in their release from Egypt and in His care for them in the desert. Now would they be willing to trust Him to defeat stronger foes?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9477A video of this story can be seen here:https://youtu.be/N7mcGcIq2uc
God has freed the Hebrew people from slavery in Egypt and desires to make them a kingdom of priests. He wants to meet with His people to give them a way to live.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9430A video of the story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/plSy05alJqA
Pharaoh had finally let the Hebrew people leave Egypt. They had gone as far as the Red Sea when Pharaoh changed his mind. Where would the people go to escape Pharaoh's army? Where was God in this situation?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/02/05/dont-be-afraid-3/A video of this story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/ikpAhuTnOb0
God created the world good, but humankind sinned. After creation and the fall, the next few chapters record one failure of humankind after another. Humanity became so corrupt that God cleansed the earth with a flood. After rebellious people tried to build a tower to heaven, God began working through one family.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9345A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/sTBgG4tvHuM
God created the world good. But Adam and Eve chose to break the only rule God gave them. Thus sin corrupted God's creation, yet God had a solution.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2023/01/22/trusting-the-lord-2/A video of this story can be view here:https://youtu.be/1oYNBoAJcO4
The greatest story has its beginning in creation.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9266A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/yvNV_As_GN8
Gentile astrologers see a new star in the sky and travel to worship the newborn king of the Jews. How do the Jewish people respond?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9216A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/JsgGcTqS7GE
Simeon and Ann had waited all their lives to see the Messiah. Now the baby Jesus was at the Temple. How did they react?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9174A video of the story may be viewed here: https://youtu.be/tyvU_eqTF_0
The birth of Jesus was so significant that angels came to sing praises. After the shepherds heard the angels they went to check out what they said. This resulted in their worship of God.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9140A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/jEQ7Bn8tZwM
After the book of Malachi, God was silent for 400 years. Then Gabriel appeared to Zechariah to tell him he would have a son who would be the forerunner of the Messiah. Zechariah didn't believe him and was struck mute for 9 months. What were the first words out of his mouth?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9095A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/NHmfndsiVxQ
Gabriel has told Mary that she will become pregnant via the Holy Spirit which will be the Messiah. She must have been anxious as it appeared to be a pregnancy out of wedlock. Mary bursts into a song of praise as she greets Elizabeth.Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=9047A video of the story may be viewed here:https://youtu.be/ZBBmh3FfH9s
The people of Micah's time had drifted away from God. God used Micah to call the people back and give hope for a coming Messiah. But until Messiah came, how were they to worship?Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/12/04/judgment-mercy-and-hope/ A video of the text can be seen here:https://youtu.be/3Xg5UM3rgOY
Isaiah is called to preach a warning to the people. If they don't return to God, judgment will come. God also gives Isaiah revelation of the hope of the Messiah to come. For this Isaiah worships and praises God.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/11/27/can-you-be-led/
A video of the story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/FAa1jHSRj58
Joseph's father, Jacob, has died. Now Joseph's brothers worry that since Dad is gone, Joseph will take vengeance. Joseph needs to reassure the brothers that this is not so.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/11/20/blessing-our-children/
A video of this story can be seen here:https://youtu.be/FImtTBaY-tc
Joseph's brothers have unwittingly been buying grain from their own brother, Joseph. Now that Joseph has discerned that they have changed over time, he reveals his true identity.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/11/13/will-god-forgive-me-when-i-fail/
A video of the context and story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/l8I8rJt4tBk
God has taken Joseph on a refining journey. But what is happening with the brothers while this is happening?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=8852
A video of the context and story is here:https://youtu.be/7g_6URfp8M0
Joseph is in prison because of a false accusation. There he interprets a dream for one of Pharaoh's servants. Two years later, Pharaoh has a dream that none of his advisors can interpret. Will Joseph be able to do it?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/10/30/gods-perfect-timing/
A video of the context and story can be seen here:https://youtu.be/6HlBYLbKe6c
Joseph is in prison due to false accusations. Yet, God is with him and enables him to interpret fellow prisoners' dreams.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/10/23/the-lord-is-faithful-in-my-trials/
A video of the story can be seen here:https://youtu.be/KEWgRMX4O3E
Seventeen-year-old Joseph finds himself in Egypt as a slave. How could God be with him in this? And, will things get worse before they get better?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=8726
A video of the context and story can be found here: https://youtu.be/sLHIzF9_WHk
Joseph's brothers were so jealous of Joseph that they schemed to get rid of him. When some traders came along, they sold Joseph into slavery. Then they lied to their father about what happened.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=8681
A video of the context and the story are here: https://youtu.be/uoDCzf1vo-o
Joseph shares two dreams with his family and they are not received well.
Seven coordinating blogs can be found here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/10/02/dreams-from-god/
A video of this story is here:https://youtu.be/8g_BG4vCgHo
Joseph is part of a family that has one father and 4 different mothers. These mothers are two sisters and their maids. These ladies have a rivalry that sets up the family for dysfunction.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/09/25/god-works-through-sinful-people/
A video of the story can be found here:https://youtu.be/Ni4cwxDuVz4
Parents are influential in our lives and Joseph's parents have an interesting story.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=8557
A video of this story is here:https://youtu.be/oODVieC62TU
Abraham is Joseph’s great-grandfather and Isaac was Joseph’s grandfather. God had called Abraham and promised to bless him and make him a great nation that would bless the world. This covenant would also apply to Joseph.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=8504
A video of the story can be seen here:https://youtu.be/lbSIIb5uZ0A
Jesus had told the disciple that He would suffer and die in Jerusalem, but rise on the third day. They didn't understand until it actually happened. The tomb is still empty today.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/09/04/faith-pushes-us-forward/
A video of the context and story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/8hwC9NwbLlc
Jesus had told the disciple that He would suffer and die in Jerusalem, but rise on the third day. They didn't understand until it actually happened. The tomb is still empty today.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/09/04/faith-pushes-us-forward/
A video of the context and story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/8hwC9NwbLlc
Scripture tells us that Jesus' death on the cross pays for all our sins. But there was one Jesus didn't save - Himself. He died so that we can live.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/08/28/when-hardships-become-a-blessing/
A video of the text can be found here:https://youtu.be/aE0Gjs8EHSE
Scripture tells us that Jesus' death on the cross pays for all our sins. But there was one Jesus didn't save - Himself. He died so that we can live.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/08/28/when-hardships-become-a-blessing/
A video of the text can be found here:https://youtu.be/aE0Gjs8EHSE
Jesus gives us a model for submitting to the Father's will.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=8368
A video of this text can be seen here: https://youtu.be/g2CZHp1qU-Q
Jesus knows He is headed for the cross and has a last meal with the disciples. They celebrate Passover and Jesus uses a tradition from the Exodus to put a new covenant in place.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/08/14/lord-what-is-your-plan/
A video of the story can be found here:https://youtu.be/gHaqpHo736k
It is two days before Jesus will be crucified. Even while the Jewish leaders are looking for a way to kill Him, a woman comes to honor Jesus with an expensive gift of oil.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/08/07/jesus-the-passover-lamb/
A video of this story is here:https://youtu.be/dGQsWcw_6Dw
The day after Jesus made His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, He cleared the temple. Jesus stopped the buying and selling that happened in the outer court. Now the Jewish leaders demanded Jesus tell by what authority He had done this.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/07/31/questioning-god-2/
A video of the story suitable to be used in small groups is here: https://youtu.be/EMGR0AJ_jqk
Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey amid the cheers of the people. Yet, He knows what is to come. He will willingly lay down His life because He loves us.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=8206
A video of the story which can be used in small groups:https://youtu.be/eMwpFTjBg2Q
Jesus warns the disciples of what will happen to Him in Jerusalem, but they are blind to it. Then Jesus heals a blind man in Jericho.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/07/17/frightened-of-the-future/
A video of this text can be seen here:https://youtu.be/g3DIfN9RDxU
A rich young man has a question for Jesus. When this man walks away, Jesus tells his disciples it is difficult for the rich to inherit eternal life.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/07/10/inheriting-eternal-life/
A video of this story can be seen here:https://youtu.be/ItBlfZT75ME
The Jews considered themselves to be the special people of God. Jesus was a Jew, yet He treats those considered outcasts with compassion.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/07/03/seeking-jesus-in-our-desperation/
A video of the story may be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ZEVxxr59uyo
Jesus had had a busy ministry day. He needs to recharge, so He sends His disciples off in the boat. But how will He catch up with them, and what will be their reaction?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/06/26/recharging-through-prayer/
A video of the context and story:https://youtu.be/3jCnJoG6ND4
Jesus has returned to Capernaum and Jairus rushes to ask Him to heal his daughter. But Jesus is interrupted as they go, and his daughter dies. What now?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=8017
A video of the context and story may be found here: https://youtu.be/QnYfxhCI2RA
The town allowed a possessed man to live outside of town, but when Jesus cured the man, the people asked Jesus to leave. Why?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/06/12/the-spiritual-battle-is-real/
A video of this story can be found here: https://youtu.be/TbM7nG9TApk
Jesus has spent a long day teaching. He instructs the disciples to sail across the lake and He lays down to rest. Suddenly, a storm comes that threatens to swamp the boat.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/06/05/walking-by-faith/
A video of this story can be found here:https://youtu.be/QOmwweaLCXw
In this story, Jesus continues to teach using parables. Why would Jesus teach this way? What can we learn today from this teaching?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/05/25/letting-your-light-shine/
A video of this story can be found here: https://youtu.be/dXgDKP7I_A4
Jesus taught with illustrative stories called parables. These use everyday items to teach a spiritual truth. Jesus told a story about planting seeds to show why some never come to faith.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/05/22/jesus-wants-to-pour-into-you/
A video of this story can be viewed here:https://youtu.be/tX2fhsXdwFo
Four friends bring a paralyzed friend to Jesus for healing. They overcome the obstacle of the crowd and then the first thing Jesus does is forgive their paralyzed friend.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/05/15/when-god-changes-our-plans/
A video of the story can be seen here:https://youtu.be/eIOTrmRtgFc
Jesus began His ministry by traveling through the region of Galilee preaching and healing. What can we learn from this?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/05/08/taking-time-to-pray/
A video of the story may be found here:https://youtu.be/94Ws_EDBxMQ
How does Jesus pick those who He will train? What preparation does He give those before He calls them?
Seven coordinating blogs can be found here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=7723
A video of the story can be found here:https://youtu.be/u5rFRaKrQIE
Mark introduces his Gospel and John the Baptist.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/04/24/the-good-news-of-jesus-3/
A video of this story may be found here: https://youtu.be/1Gh-FdPBc-M
Why did the disciples on the way to Emmaus think Jesus' death showed He was not the Messiah? They thought Messiah would come as a political king. Jesus had to show them differently.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/foreshadowing-the-cross-resurrection
A video of the text can be found here:https://youtu.be/do8bQtxgvgs
Holy Week is a time that we consider the suffering of Jesus. His work on the cross enables us to have our sins forgiven and be reconciled to God. Jesus spent the night before His death praying. John was with Jesus that night. What might he say when asked about it? Script written by Ted Schroeder. © 2016 Creative Communications for the Parish, 1564 Fencorp Dr., Fenton, MO 63026. 800-325-9414. www.creativecommunications.com. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Holy Week is a time that we consider the suffering of Jesus. His work on the cross enables us to have our sins forgiven and be reconciled to God.Peter made some poor choices during Holy Week. What might he say when asked about that week? Script written by Ted Schroeder. © 2016 Creative Communications for the Parish, 1564 Fencorp Dr., Fenton, MO 63026. 800-325-9414. www.creativecommunications.com. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Holy Week is a time that we consider the suffering of Jesus. His work on the cross enables us to have our sins forgiven and be reconciled to God.Malchus was a solider that helped arrest Jesus. What did he experience that changed his life? Script written by Ted Schroeder. © 2016 Creative Communications for the Parish, 1564 Fencorp Dr., Fenton, MO 63026. 800-325-9414. www.creativecommunications.com. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Holy Week is a time that we consider the suffering of Jesus. His work on the cross enables us to have our sins forgiven and be reconciled to God.Judas has become identified with the sin of betrayal. What might a conversation with him sound like? Script written by Ted Schroeder. © 2016 Creative Communications for the Parish, 1564 Fencorp Dr., Fenton, MO 63026. 800-325-9414. www.creativecommunications.com. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Holy Week is a time that we consider the suffering of Jesus. His work on the cross enables us to have our sins forgiven and be reconciled to God. Judas has become identified with the sin of betrayal. What might a conversation with him sound like?
Script written by Ted Schroeder. © 2016 Creative Communications for the Parish, 1564 Fencorp Dr., Fenton, MO 63026. 800-325-9414. www.creativecommunications.com. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Holy Week is a time that we consider the suffering of Jesus. His work on the cross enables us to have our sins forgiven and be reconciled to God. What wisdom about forgiveness might King David have? What would a conversation with him sound like?
Script written by Ted Schroeder. © 2016 Creative Communications for the Parish, 1564 Fencorp Dr., Fenton, MO 63026. 800-325-9414. www.creativecommunications.com. All rights reserved. Used by permission
The Feast of Tabernacles is the last Holy Day listed in Leviticus 23. It celebrates the time God was with and provided for His people in the Exodus. Jesus came as God in the flesh to provide salvation for us.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/04/10/gods-presence-with-his-people/
A video of the story may be found here:https://youtu.be/p2BihsWBWqg
The Day of Atonement, or Yom Kippur in Hebrew, was celebrated in the fall. The meaning of atonement here is to ransom, or to remove by paying a price. This is exactly what Jesus would do for us.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/04/03/days-of-awe/
A video of this story can be found here:https://youtu.be/IGIZNKX9ewY
Did you know that Pentecost is not just a New Testament celebration? Its roots go back to the Exodus and foreshadow the cross and the coming of the Holy Spirit.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=7474
A video of this story can be found here:https://youtu.be/5VH2OceuOKQ
God gave instructions to His people on how to honor Him with their barley harvest. They were to bring the first portion as an offering and this would be a pledge that the remainder of the harvest would be brought in. Jesus is the first-fruit of the dead and His resurrection is a promise of future resurrection for all believers.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/03/20/the-first-fruits-principle/
To see this story in video form:https://youtu.be/cyTlP9gMQKo
God commanded that His people remove the leaven from their homes to remember the exodus from Egypt. Leaven represents sin and Christ removed our sin through what He did on the cross. What other parallels are there between the cross of Christ and the Feast of Unleavened Bread?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=7375
A video of the story can be found here:https://youtu.be/bfphYkh3d68
Passover celebrates how God used the 10th plague to free His people from slavery in Egypt. It also foreshadows how Jesus will free us from the slavery of sin.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/03/06/holidays-with-a-purpose/
A video of this story can be found here:https://youtu.be/RHFwrJr6mV0
Nehemiah had helped the people rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. Then they promised to follow God. After this he returned to Persia for a time. What did he find when he returned to Jerusalem?
Seven coordinating blog begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/02/27/be-spiritually-watchful/
A video of this story can be found here:https://youtu.be/tEqlf3qxad8
The wall of Jerusalem has been rebuilt, now it is time for spiritual renewal. Disobedience had gotten them into trouble in the first place. How will the people react to hearing the word of God?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/02/20/letting-gods-word-wash-you/
A video of this story can be found here:https://youtu.be/EdPvW-eK0gA
Despite all the opposition, the wall is finished in 52 days. The people celebrate this miraculous event. What surprising event has the Lord helped you with?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/02/13/journey-fo-the-miraculous/
A video of the context and story may be found here: https://youtu.be/Ar_WDzTdn10
As Nehemiah and the Jews in Jerusalem are rebuilding the city wall, they have faced opposition. They have withstood ridicule, and fear of attacks, and even financial difficulties. Now their enemies are trying a new tactic, personal attacks against Nehemiah.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/02/06/when-life-tests-you/
To see a video of this story:https://youtu.be/E-Wu77xs3aw
The people were rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem and their hope of a Messiah. Nehemiah, as their leader, had overcome opposition from their enemies but now a new problem lurked.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/01/30/when-you-are-treated-unjustly/
A video of this story for small groups:https://youtu.be/wPZ1DTknXOs
All of Jerusalem had come together to rebuild the city wall. How would they handle ridicule, discouragement, and threat of attack?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/01/23/overcoming-ridicule/
For a video of this story and small group materials click here:https://youtu.be/hQnThSFM-Vg
Nehemiah arrives in Jerusalem and inspects the wall for himself. The Jewish leaders agree to help rebuild the wall but not all Jerusalem residents are happy about it.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/01/16/unexpected-blessings-from-the-lord/
A video of this story may be found here:https://youtu.be/mX9a08-S4LI
The Jewish people had begun to return to Jerusalem from exile, but they were still vulnerable to enemies because there was no city wall. The new of this bothered Nehemiah and set him on a new course.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/01/09/showing-concern-for-others/
A video of this story can be found here:https://youtu.be/otatrve4lbU
Who were the Magi and why did they want to visit the toddler Jesus?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2022/01/02/being-drawn-to-jesus-2/
A video of this story may be found here:https://youtu.be/tSVZi_rEMAc
As Joseph and Mary go the Temple to perform Mary's purification requirement, they are amazed at the words spoken over the baby Jesus.
Seven coordination blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/12/26/following-gods-word-is-life-changing/
A video of this story may be found here:https://youtu.be/0UdwnWMHPFY
Joseph discovers that Mary is pregnant. What now? He decides to divorce her quietly, but God sends him a different message.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=6677
To see this story as a video with small group questions: https://youtu.be/ngLsisp_ZDw
The angel Gabriel had given a message to Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist. Now, three months later, Gabriel is on another mission with a message to a young girl in Nazareth.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/12/12/god-sends-angels-to-ordinary-people/
Video with context, story, and questions:https://youtu.be/1B8ckVTI0WE
God had been silent for 400 years. Now the Angel of the Lord had news for Zechariah. This was so fantastic that it wasn't believable. How would Zechariah react to the angel?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/12/05/blessings-from-obeying-the-lord/
To see a video of this story for a small group: https://youtu.be/CwNHqKDYwXU
This story of prophecy comes about just over 700 years before Jesus was born. It was a dark time, the people were not following God and paying the consequences of their actions. In the midst of their hopelessness, God sent Isaiah a message of hope.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/11/28/encouraged-in-difficult-times/
For a video of this story for small groups:https://youtu.be/qgXSd_bF7Lk
God is using Paul and his team to build His kingdom, and as people move from satan’s kingdom to God’s, satan gets angry and begins to pushback against the missionaries.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/11/21/facing-spiritual-opposition/
To use this for a small group study: https://youtu.be/Gc_fDdfTBiY
Paul and his team are on their second missionary trip. They have visited the churches from the first trip but now where should they go?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/11/14/trusting-gods-timing/
To see a video of this story: https://youtu.be/Z7LWagra_eQ
Peter had been instrumental in preaching the Good News of Jesus to the Jews. Now God had more for Peter but how would He overcome Peter's view of Gentiles?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/11/07/god-speaks-to-us-in-many-ways/
To use this as a small group study click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLIEoyvG6jU
Philip has a growing ministry in Samaria but then God asks him to go to the desert road. How will God work to change a life there?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/10/31/when-god-changes-my-plans/
To use this podcast as a basis for a small group study: https://youtu.be/5yefc3uzKS8
John and Peter go to the Temple everyday, what will be different about this day? How will God show Himself and give Peter an opportunity to preach?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=6309
To use this podcast for a small group, click here:https://youtu.be/Ka6hLFZ88W8
Joseph grew up in a dysfunctional blended family; his father had children by four different women. Joseph, however, was his father's favorite son which made his brothers jealous. When Joseph shares two dreams his brothers become even more angry with him. Where will all of this lead?
Seven corresponding blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/10/17/god-uses-the-unlikely/
To use this teaching in a small group:https://youtu.be/roCSBtZlthI
Jacob has cheated his brother and as a result his brother threatens to kill him. So, Jacob is leaving home and has a dream on the way. How will this affect his future?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/10/10/why-would-god-speak-to-us-in-dreams/
A video using this podcast is available here for small group studies:https://youtu.be/GuCgE7b1y1s
Peter has been imprisoned for preaching about Jesus. Fellow believers are praying for him, will they realize that God has answered their prayers?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/10/03/when-my-faith-is-tested/
God told Elisha what the enemy, the Arameans, were doing. Elisha in turn warned the king. This infuriated the Arameans and they went out to seize him. What would happen now?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/09/26/god-warns-of-the-future/
To use this story in a small group: https://youtu.be/72DHYTN_rtQ
Saul (Paul) was a leading theologian of his time. He thought he was working for God as he persecuted the Christians. What would God do to change his mind?
Seven blogs coordinate with this podcast. They begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/09/19/why-gods-plan-for-my-life-important/
To use this for a small group:https://youtu.be/NdkLHfYtMGw
Peter is an average working man, a fisherman by trade. Jesus uses his boat as a teaching platform and then asks Peter to follow Him. Peter knows he isn't worthy, so what next?
To read seven coordinating blogs, begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/09/12/will-you-let-gods-word-change-you/
Moses had tried to advocate for his people before and it didn't go well. Now God was calling him to free his people. How would Moses respond?
The Pharisees, which are Jewish leaders, can’t understand why Jesus would spend time with people they consider unclean sinners. Jesus responds with this story and shows that God has more even for the prodigal.
As Cornelius, a Roman solider, is seeking God, he receives instructions to send for Peter. How will Peter, a Jew, react? What will result in all of this?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=5891
Zacchaeus was a despised tax collector, but he was still curious about Jesus. He wanted to see Him but was too short so he climbed a tree. What Jesus did next was surprising.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/08/15/being-drawn-to-jesus/
Jesus is traveling in a non-Jewish area and a Gentile woman comes to him pleading for help. Jesus appears to ignore her at first, but how will it end?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/08/08/demonic-opposition-is-real/
Jesus had been invited to a dinner party by a prominent Jewish leader. Then a woman who had lead a sinful lifestyle shows up. How will this interaction go?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/08/01/the-broken-are-drawn-to-jesus/
If you would like to use this for a small group study, click here: https://youtu.be/fIfsWxDlu8Q
A paralyzed man and friend find a creative way to meet Jesus. But when the man is healed, not everyone is happy. Why?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/07/25/is-your-heart-open-to-jesus/
To use this recording in a small group setting: https://youtu.be/dP-ZrgOxGnU
Josiah was only eight years old when he came to the throne. It was eighteen years later that, as they were repairing the temple, they found the Scriptures. How could they have lost them? Can we lose them today?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/07/18/living-life-pleases-god/
To use this podcast in a small group study click here:https://youtu.be/CjbQDGZwSSw
King Asa wanted to follow God and God encouraged him as he did. But as time went on, he began to drift, would he continue to trust God? What would be the consequences for the nation?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/07/11/pleasing-god/
If you would like to use this podcast for a small group click here:https://youtu.be/51p5u3vY-ss
Abigail's husband offends David and David begins to call his men together to retaliate. What could Abigail do to protect her family and save David from making a mistake?
Seven Coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/07/04/being-kind-to-one-another/
Small Group material on this text may be found here: https://youtu.be/RsdAd2xLWj8
Ruth has chosen to follow the true God and this has resulted in moving to a different country and working hard. Now as Ruth continues to seek God, how will God bless her?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/06/27/blessings-from-the-lord/
To use this for a small group study: https://youtu.be/VBsITHPeB9g
Ruth had been widowed and had moved to a different country. How could she and her mother-in-law, Naomi, survive? Would the Lord be with them even though He seemed distant?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/06/20/overcoming-loss-loved-ones/
Joshua thought the plan of his army scouts was good, but then they were defeated in battle. Why? Joshua sought the Lord for the answer.
Caleb was one of two spies that encouraged Israel to enter the promised land. When the nation refused, God allowed them to wander in the desert for 40 years. When they entered the promised land, Caleb defeated the giants to gain his inherited portion.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/06/06/overcoming-fear/
The writer of Hebrews has just listed the "Faith Hall of Fame" but what is the result of faith? How should the faith of others affect us?
David had been anointed to be the next king and as a result the current king, Saul, was chasing David in order to kill him. Now David had a chance to kill Saul. Would he take advantage of the situation or trust God to be enthroned?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/05/23/listening-to-gods-voice/
It seemed that the Lord had abandoned Israel, and now the Philistines were attacking. As Israel's leader, what would Samuel do? Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/05/16/why-does-god-seem-distant/
You may have heard how Samson was a strong man, but why did he make it to the faith hall of fame in Hebrews 11? Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/faith-makes-a-difference-samson
Who is Jephthah and why would the writer of Hebrews mention him as a person of faith? Here is a story of how the Lord can use the unlikely.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/05/02/lord-uses-unlikely/
God calls Gideon, a farm boy, to be a warrior and then gives him a crazy battle plan. It would take faith to face an army of thousands with only 300 men.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/04/25/lord-wants-develop-you/
Israel was being attacked and persecuted. Why and what could be done about it? Barak receives insight and help from God to overcome.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/04/18/guarding-your-heart/
Rahab lived in Jericho but had heard about the power of the God of Israel. She protected the spies Joshua sent and requested they save her and her family when the city was destroyed. She had faith and the nation had faith when they carried out God's battle plan against Jericho.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/04/11/blessings-for-obedience/
God had promised His people a land of their own, but they were slaves in Egypt. Still Joseph was sure this promise would come true and wanted his bones to be taken there. Moses, by faith, refused to be part of ruling Egypt but would lead his people out of Egypt.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here:
The writer of Hebrews tells us that Jacob blessed Joseph's sons by faith. What is the story about this blessing?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/03/28/blessings-from-lord/
There controversy as Isaac blessed his sons, but still the author of Hebrews commented that Isaac blessed his sons by faith. What can we learn from Isaac?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/03/21/trusting-god-can-be-difficult/
God asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, the son Abraham had waited 25 years for. The test was severe because Abraham’s task ahead was great. Does God still test us today?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/03/14/does-god-test-today/
Sarah is beyond child bearing age, but the Lord is promising that she will have a child within the next year. It would have taken faith to believe the promise.
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/03/07/why-does-god-interact-with-people/
Has God ever asked you to do something that others thought was crazy? God asked Noah to build an ark on dry land, but there was a purpose for it. Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/02/28/gods-desire-for-you/
Faith moved Abel to choose a more acceptable sacrifice to offer God than his brother Cain, and God declared him righteous because of his offering of faith. By his faith, Abel still speaks instruction to us today, even though he is long dead. Seven corresponding blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/02/21/faith-lord-makes-difference/
Peter had denied Jesus three times and everyone knew it. How could he possibly become an effective leader in the church?
Coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/02/14/jesus-doesnt-give-up-you/
Mary had gone to a tomb to anoint a corpse. But the tomb was open and there was no body. Where was Jesus?
To read coordinating blogs, begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/02/07/when-life-looks-dark/
Pilate was a Roman official trying to rule what he considered was a troublesome Jewish population. How would his encounter with Jesus be different from any other person? What can we learn through Pilate's encounter with Jesus?
Coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/01/31/false-accusations/
Jesus knows He has one last evening before He is crucified. Final words are important and Jesus shares about serving, loving one another, and betrayals to come. How do the disciples encounter Jesus in this situation?
Lazarus had died, even though his sister's had requested Jesus to come and heal him. Jesus showed up four days after Lazarus' death, was it too little, too late? Coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/01/17/gods-timing-3/
The man had been blind from birth until he met Jesus. His healing set off a firestorm with the Pharisees but sent the former blind man on a journey of faith.
For corresponding blog messages, begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/01/10/helping-others-along-way/
As people encountered Jesus and had their lives changed, crowds began to follow Jesus. After teaching a large crowd, Jesus knew they needed food. How would they feed so many in such an isolated area?
Seven corresponding blogs can be found starting here:https://lightofchristjourney.com/2021/01/03/why-follow-jesus/
To use this message as a basis for a small group study, go here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_KDlN5EeFI&feature=youtu.be
A government official's son was ill. We don't know if he was a Jew or a Gentile, but because of his association with Herod's rule, the Jews would have refused contact with him. Still, he comes to the Jewish rabbi, Jesus, for help. What will his encounter be like?
Seven coordinating blogs begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/12/27/welcoming-jesus/
Jesus breaks several social norms when He, as a Jewish man, speaks to a Samaritan woman. How does this encounter change her? How should it change us?
Nicodemus was a Jewish leader and he was intrigued by Jesus. He came to check Jesus out at night so none of his friends would see him. How can Nicodemus' encounter of Jesus teach us today?
Jesus took time for relationships as we can see when He attended a wedding with family and friends. Even there, Jesus does ministry and shows how God cares for the details of our life.
John and his brother were disciples of Jesus. When Jesus called the brothers, He called them “sons of thunder” (Mark 3:17). They seemed to be aggressive and insensitive, or what we might call “rough around the edges.” During their time with Jesus, these brothers were transformed. James was the first disciple to be martyred and John became known as the disciple of love from his writings. During their time with Jesus, these brothers were transformed and John wrote his Gospel so we can experience the same transformation.
Riots seem to happen whenever Paul comes to preach in town. Many don't want to hear the Gospel message and don't want others to hear it either. Even though he is persecuted, Paul has hope. What can we learn from Paul to help us deal with chaotic times?
The connected blogs start here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/11/22/your-view-jesus-biblical/
Paul quickly found out that the spiritual battle was real. Satan wanted to silence Paul and he ended up in prison. How could Paul continue to worship God and sing after being beaten and imprisoned?
Matching blog articles begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/11/15/spiritual-battle-real/
Stephen was a Jesus follower that did many miracles. But he wasn't popular with everyone. We might see Stephen’s death as tragedy that cut short a great life. He was instrumental in the development of Paul’s faith and still affects us today. Stephen gives model of a Godly life and the courage to deliver difficult messages
For corresponding blog messages for this story, start here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/11/08/signs-miracles-wonders/
The man was a criminal and had received the death sentence. What hope could there be now? Then Jesus was sentenced to die next to him. How would that change the last hours of this man's life?
She had been caught in her sin and now she was brought up on charges publicly. She was being humiliated and shamed. Where could she find hope in this situation? What can we learn from her in our own situation?
To read the connecting devotions start here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/10/25/build-up-others/
.Jesus brought hope to people of His time, not only through words but through actions. One of these actions was physical healing. In today's story a Roman solider, who the Jews would have excluded because of his race and political position, is given hope.
Haman still held a grudge his family had for 500 years. Now he had been able to trick the king into signing a death warrant for the Jews. Unknown to the king, Esther, his queen was Jewish. What could she do in a time like this? How can we learn lessons from her for our times today?
There are seven devotions on this topic. The first begins here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/10/11/the-trap-of-unforgiveness/
People were being deported to a foreign country. Where was God? He answers and gives the refugees hope.
There are seven corresponding devotions which begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/10/04/divine-guidance/
Why would God allow Job to be tested? Does God still test people today? How can we have hope in times of struggle?
Joseph had been sold into slavery by his brothers and ended up in Egypt. Now he was trying to make the best of things and follow God. Then his master's wife falsely accuses him of rape and he is thrown into prison. What now? Where is hope?
There are devotions that accompany this audio. They begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/09/20/the-hand-of-god/
Saul was a Jew who thought Christians were heretics and wanted to do away with them. God had other plans for him. How is God calling you into His plans for you?
There are devotions that connect with this podcast. They may be accessed here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/09/13/persecution-a-spiritual-battle/
Matthew was considered a deplorable tax collector by society. Yet, Jesus called him to be a disciple. Where is Jesus calling you?
You may be interested in seven devotions which accompany this video beginning here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/09/06/the-lord-is-calling-you/
Peter was just an average working man when Jesus called him. He had excuses but Jesus still called him. What is Jesus calling you to right now?
Connecting devotions begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/08/30/jesus-draws-us-to-himself-2/
Jeremiah was a young man but the Lord had a big job for him. How could Jeremiah possibly do what God was asking? God has a call for each of us. How could we possibly do what God asks?
There are seven devotions that accompany this recording. They begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/08/23/god-knows-you/
God gave Isaiah a glimpse of His heavenly throne room and Isaiah saw himself for who he was. God made a relationship possible with Isaiah and had a call and purpose for his life. God still works the same way with us today. How is God calling you?
There are also seven devotions that connect with this audio. They begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/08/16/god-reveals-himself/
God called Jonah to preach to his enemies and he didn't like it. He tried to run from God but was it going to work?
To read devotions that go with this podcast, start here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/08/09/running-from-god/
Elijah, by command of God, extends a call to Elisha. This means that he must leave his old life behind. When God calls us, it is also to leave the old behind. But how much more exciting will it be to serve God?
There are also 7 devotions that match this podcast. They begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/08/02/leaving-the-old-life-behind/
The nation of Israel is in a chaotic time. Samuel is only a boy who doesn't know God well. How and why would God call Samuel? How does that same reason apply to us today?
You may also read daily devotions on this podcast beginning with: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/07/26/blessings-from-serving-the-lord/
If you would like to do a small group Bible study on this text, it can be found here:
We might assume that God would call the qualified. In our story of Gideon, he is hiding when God calls him a mighty warrior. How would Gideon ever save the nation from its enemies? How does God continue to call each of us in the same way today?
God wanted to use Abram for His Kingdom work, but Abram would have to be willing to follow directions. What was it that God wanted to give Abram and how would Abram respond? God wants to call you to His work today. How will you respond?
There are seven devotions which match this podcast and the first one begins here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/07/18/god-directs-our-path/
Moses has come to the end of his assignment from God. He has led the people to the borders of the promised land. He is 120 years old and the Lord reveals that he will only be able to see the land, but not enter it. Joshua will lead the people into the land. It is time to pass the mantle of leadership.
You may find matching devotions beginning here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/07/11/the-importance-of-setting-an-example/
Moses had been told by God to ask Pharaoh for the release of the Hebrew people so they could go and worship God. God performed miracle for the release and provision and now wants to meet with them on Mt. Sinai. Will the people obey? What do you say to God when He wants to meet with you?
There are daily devotions to match this podcast. They begin here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/07/04/god-carries-us-on-eagles-wings/
God is not just the God of the new beginning—he is also the God of the entire pilgrimage of his people. He has done miracles to get them out of Egypt and across the Red Sea. There are 600,00 men, as well as their wives and children, on a journey into the desert. First God provides fresh water. This incident was a testing. Now the people want bread and meat. Would His people give Him total obedience? Will they listen to His voice or not? What do we do when we are tested?
It seems almost too good to be true, but now, four centuries after coming to Egypt, the descendants of Jacob are finally on their journey out of Egypt to the land which God has promised to give them to inherit. This is their journey of a lifetime. But then they appear to be trapped by the Egyptian army and the sea. How can they trust God now?
A week of devotions on this topic can be found beginning here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/06/20/the-dangers-of-a-hardened-heart/
In Egypt Pharaoh is considered a god. He has certain powers and abilities, and the might of Egypt resides with him. When Moses and Aaron appear before him to demand the release of the Hebrew slaves, each refusal becomes an occasion for the True God to demonstrate His superiority over Pharaoh and all the other gods of Egypt. Each successive plague attacks deeper into the heart of Pharaoh’s power and politics. Slowly but surely, Pharaoh’s power is undermined until God breaks Pharaoh’s grip on the people of Israel completely. With the final plague everything begins to unravel: the death of the firstborn is personal for Pharaoh. This occasion has been celebrated ever since.
Pharaoh refuses to let the Hebrew people go. The people themselves have turned against Moses since their situation has worsened. Moses can only leave the situation in God’s hands. God reminded Moses, and reminds us, that He is in the business of fulfilling covenant promises and undertakings.
You may also find seven devotions that match this podcast starting here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/2020/06/06/god-shows-himself-through-signs-and-wonders/
Even though Moses had failed to be a liberator for his people as a young man, God called him to the task through a burning bush. The Lord promised to be with Moses and to empower him to do signs and wonders in front of Pharaoh. God would also go before Moses so that the Hebrew people would accept his leadership. When Moses performed these miracles in front of Pharaoh, instead of freeing the people, Pharaoh made it worse. Have you ever had a time where you did everything right and the situation went from bad to worse?
The Hebrew people had not recognized Moses as their liberator when he killed an abusive Egyptian. Moses escaped and lived as a shepherd in another country. But God still wanted to use Moses as His liberator. How does God call you to be part of His plan?
Devotions that match this podcast can be found here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=2592
Moses, a Hebrew, had grown up in the household of the Egyptian Pharaoh. When he saw an Egyptian abusing a fellow Hebrew, Moses killed the Egyptian. He had hoped that the other Hebrews would realize he was on their side. But his plan backfired. Have you ever gone ahead of God with your own plans?
Devotions for this message can be found here: https://lightofchristjourney.com/?p=2565
The nation of Israel had been enslaved by Egypt. The Egyptians ruthlessly worked the people of Israel. But still the Israelites grew in numbers. The King of Egypt called for the mid-wives to kill the baby boys, but they feared God more than the king and let the boys live. Their faith would allow Moses to be born. How can we trust God in difficult times?
To read the corresponding devotions that go with this message, go to https://lightofchristjourney.com/
Daniel is now an old man, probably in his 80’s. His talent for leadership has led to yet another promotion. Daniel’s co-workers are jealous and hatch a plot to get rid of Daniel. How will Daniel survive? Will justice be served?
King Belshazzar is ruling Babylon and gives a huge banquet for a thousand of his closest friends. The wine runs freely, and everyone is having a good time until a hand appears and begins to write on the wall. The king’s advisors have no clue what this means. Who will be able to tell the king what the writing on the wall means?
Daniel’s three friends have been promoted to high government positions in the Babylonian empire. They are Jewish and only worship the true God. Now the King demands that they worship a statue or be killed. What will they do? Where is God in this situation?
There is a knock on Daniel’s door and the official announces that he and his friends are to be executed. The king has had a dream and the other advisers to the king can’t figure it out. What is Daniel to do? How will God get him out of this situation?
Daniel and his friend have been deported from Jerusalem to Babylon. They are young men and are subjected to brainwashing education by the Babylonians. How will God help them here? What can we learn from Daniel?
David because of Saul’s jealousy has become a man on the run. How does he deal with the hardships of trying to stay safe? Who does he turn to? How can we use David’s model for our own lives?
David has escaped from Saul and ends up in Philistine territory. David may have assumed that the enemy of my enemy must be my friend, but things don’t work out that way. How will David deal with the situation that he has gotten himself into?
King Saul is insanely jealous of David and has made several attempts on his life. Jonathon is King Saul’s son and David’s best friend. He doesn’t believe David when he says that Saul wants to kill him. Jonathon sets out to find out the truth. How does David deal with a situation that isn’t fair?
David appeared to be on the quick path to the throne, but tough times were ahead. He would need a strong foundation to endure the path to the throne. We must depend on Jesus, our good shepherd. He, too, is always present. He is the one that provides, restores, guides, protects, and pursues us for a future with Him.
Satan can’t hurt God in the great cosmic, spiritual battle, so he hurts God’s children. But God is with us in the battle. Today there is a battle going on for the souls of America. The battle lines are drawn. How has the enemy been battling you? The enemy looks to defeat us but remember these words: “But God.”
God had rejected Saul as King because he had been disobedient. David, however, had a heart for God. We get insight into this heart through Psalms 8 and 19. David communed with God. What does that look like for us today?
Even amid opposition, Paul was faithful to persevere. His team was a constant source of encouragement. God, Himself, encouraged Paul through a vision. Jesus is our model of faithfulness. Where do you need His encouragement to persevere?
Paul has a burden for the lost and reaches out to both Jews and Gentiles. If we ask God, He will also give us a heart to reach others with the Good News of Jesus. God won’t abandon you, expect Him to encourage you along the way.
Paul had a divine appointment when he met Pricilla and Aquilla. They became part of Paul’s team and encouraged him. Paul had to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit as he preached the Gospel. But saving souls was worth the effort and a church was planted in Corinth. Where does the Lord want to use you in His kingdom?
Paul was deeply troubled by all the idols in Athens. Even with this, he sends his helpers, Timothy and Silas, back to encourage the church plants. Paul stays alone to debate the philosophers whose minds are not open to the Word of God. Where do you have a similar battle in your life?
As we follow God’s leading to share His Word with others, we will be in a battle. But in the process, the Holy Spirit will work in our lives to transform our hearts. The Lord wants to use believers as a team to bring in the harvest. Where do you need unity with others to bring in the harvest?
When we come to faith in Jesus the Holy Spirit begins to work in our lives. A life that was filled with darkness and self-centeredness becomes filled with the Light of Jesus and the call to serve in the Kingdom of God. A life that was hopeless is now filled with the hope of living out a new life and the hope of eternity with Jesus. A life that did not have a purpose now has a purpose, guidance and direction by the Holy Spirit.
Our lives are spiritual journeys and we often can learn from the stories of each other. Today, Pastor Tom will interview Doug Brock. You may ask “Who is Doug Brock?” Doug is a common everyday person probably a lot like you. He isn’t anyone famous, but God has had him on a journey of faith. Doug had heard the name Jesus as he was growing up, but never really knew Him until later in his life. If you think that God doesn’t care about you, think again. God took Doug on a journey of faith and He wants to take you on a similar journey.
Paul and Silas were faithful to preach God’s Word in Philippi but then were imprisoned. This is the same spiritual battle we face as we reach out to others with the Gospel. But we serve a powerful God who can take opposition and turn it for His glory. God set Paul and Silas free, what does God need to set you free from?
As the wise men sought Jesus, their hearts were changed. But the hearts of Herod and the Jewish leadership were disturbed. Jesus is worthy of our worship and of our gifts. It is those that have humble hears who have a desire to follow Jesus.
Paul senses that it is time to go on the road again. Through some negative circumstances, Paul goes with a new partner, Silas. The trip will involve danger, but they must discern between a test and a hindrance. How can you grow in discernment as you step out to take the Gospel to others?
The inn had no room for Jesus, do you have room in your heart for Him? This Christmas remember what a gift Jesus is to us. He will be the one who freely ministers to those society says have no worth. Jesus continues to give each of us worth today.
Jacob, for much of his story, has been indifferent to the presence of God. But God is a pursuing God. God was faithful even when Jacob wasn't.
God sent Gabriel with a surprising message to Mary. She would be the mother of a very special baby. But this plan must have been overwhelming. Mary gives us a blueprint on how to overcome the fear of God's plan for our life.
God had always been present with Jacob, even when Jacob didn't realize it. Jacob had begun to know God but he still hadn't fully incorporated his faith into his life which would result in tragedy. How does God want to mature your faith?
Zechariah never expected to see an angel, nor have a child at his age. God often gives of gifts of blessing that come in unexpected ways. At times these gifts stretch us and help us grow in our spiritual maturity and faith. Where is God sending an unexpected gift your way?
Jacob knows that it is time to leave his Uncle Laban and return home. That will mean facing his brother who had wanted to kill him 20 years earlier. It seemed that God had told him to go home, but would God protect him?
Isaiah, the prophet, wrote 700 years before Jesus was born. He brought downtrodden people a message of hope. There would come a time when they would be restored. That message was not only for the people of Isaiah's time but it is also a message for us today. God would step into time to change the world.
The dueling deceiver saga continues. Jacob realizes that he must escape the clutches of his Uncle Laban. Jacob gets insight into the heart of God in these circumstances.
Jacob had been a deceiver most of his life. Now he has met his match in his Uncle Laban. God has told Laban that he is blessed because of Jacob, but still Laban deceives Jacob. When have you had to deal with a schemer?
Saul was an up and coming Jewish scholar. He was sure that he was doing God's work as he attempted to stop the Christian movement. How would the Divine Intruder change all that?
Would God ever ask us to do something that sounded crazy? God sends a message to Philip via an angel. What difference could Philip's obedience make? What difference could your obedience make?
Jacob must leave home because he has deceived his brother and his life is threatened. Even with his deceitful nature, God continues repeat the promises He has made to the family. Jacob is hired on by his uncle and works for seven years to pay the bride price for a wife. But God will use the circumstances to begin to refine Jacob. He will see what it is life to be on the receiving end of deceit.
Mary and Martha sent for Jesus when their brother was ill. But Jesus didn't show up until Lazarus, their brother, had been dead for four days. What does their story tell us about waiting on God?
Jacob has stolen his brother's blessing and now must run for his life. Jacob’s deception and manipulation of Esau sets a pattern of behavior for him. Yet, God pursues Jacob and gives him a dream of a stairway to heaven. How is God pursuing you?
Jacob and his mother Rebekah were manipulators. They hatched a plan to make sure that Jacob, not his brother Esau, would receive the blessing. The plan looked to work in the short term, but what would happen in the long term? What can we learn from this?
The Parable of the Lost Son is familiar to many. It understandable how the Divine Intruder breaks into his life to change it for the better. But how does God, acting as the Divine Intruder, break into the other son's life? How does that have implications for us?
Naomi was in a personal crisis. Her husband and both sons had died and she was living in a foreign land. But the Divine Intruder works through her daughter-in -law to bring restoration to her life. Even though Naomi thought God was against her, He still had plans for her. Are you in crisis? God has plans for you, too.
Jacob contended with his brother Esau from the time before they were born. Jacob cheats his brother out of his birthright. Why would God let this happen? In God’s mercy He works with people of flawed character and works with them throughout their lifetime to grow in godly character. We also see God working the same way with us along our spiritual journey.
The nation of Israel had drifted away from God. God, as the Divine Intruder, breaks in to get their attention. In the process, Gideon learns he has a part. Where does God need to break into your life to show Himself strong?
The Lord loves to work through his children to bring good news to others. God’s kindness is meant to turn you to repentance. How is the Lord calling you to press in to Him to stretch yourself to reach the heavenly prize?
The Lord loves to work through his children to bring good news to others. God’s kindness is meant to turn you to repentance. How is the Lord calling you to press in to Him to stretch yourself to reach the heavenly prize?
Isaac was a son of the promise that God had given Abraham. How was he to meet a wife that would help continue this promise? How do we continue to walk in the promises that God has given us?
There is rebellion and a desire for renown. Then the Divine Intruder breaks in to restrain sin and reverse the situation. How does the Divine Intruder to the same for us today?
Many of our life stories really begin with our ancestors. The same is true for biblical characters like Jacob, whose story is rooted in the life of his father and grandfather and their relationship with God. God had promised Abraham that he would become a great nation, but Abraham and Sarah must wait over 20 years for this child, Isaac, to be born. Then God will test Abraham...
Mike Bradley is an author, pastor, past seminary president of The Master’s Institute, and is currently serving as the director of the Alliance of Renewal Churches. He has over 40 years of leadership experience in the Christian community. Pastor Mike found walking with God to be an adventure that took him to unexpected places. His faith gave him a security and sense of self and peace that he didn’t have prior to knowing Jesus. He and his wife of more than 40 years, Debi, currently live in Gilbert, Arizona, and have five children and two grandsons.
Mike Bradley is an author, pastor, past seminary president of The Master’s Institute, and is currently serving as the director of the Alliance of Renewal Churches. He has over 40 years of leadership experience in the Christian community. . Pastor Mike found walking with God to be an adventure that took him to unexpected places. His faith gave him a security and sense of self and peace that he didn’t have prior to knowing Jesus. He and his wife of more than 40 years, Debi, currently live in Gilbert, Arizona, and have five children and two grandsons.
God does not give up on us; He is long suffering so many people will be saved. The enemy works to turn us away from God, but the Lord extends grace to draw people to Himself. The enemy plots against us, but God works to rescue us.
God does not give up on us; He is long suffering so many people will be saved. The enemy works to turn us away from God, but the Lord extends grace to draw people to Himself. The enemy plots against us, but God works to rescue us.
What happens when a friend you thought was loyal seems to betray you? In today's story Paul had to call out Peter for some not so Christian actions. How should faith change our actions towards others?
Jeremiah had been faithful to preach an unpopular message from God. Now he is sinking into the mud in a deep cistern. Where is God? Why does He have such an unpopular message for His people? Will God hear Jeremiah's prayer? Listen to see how this story gives us insight to the answers to these questions.
John Mark left the mission team. Sometimes we let others down. It takes listening to God’s voice to give us discernment. Paul and Barnabas continue preaching on the trip despite the hardships. They watched as God’s word transforms those who would receive it.
John Mark left the mission team. Sometimes we let others down. It takes listening to God’s voice to give us discernment. Paul and Barnabas continue preaching on the trip despite the hardships. They watched as God’s word transforms those who would receive it.
We have followed the passionate love of Jesus for us as He suffered, died, and rose from the dead. Now He shares this love for others with an assignment for His disciples. As followers of Jesus, we too, have the same instructions from Jesus. What does this great commission really mean?
Jeremiah had a new assignment but his message was not well received. Hananiah, on the other hand, was preaching a popular message. How were the people to discern what was the truth? How do we today discern what is truth?
Matthew records that Jesus had clearly told the disciples three times (16:21; 17:23; 20:19) that He would die and rise to life again. This news sounded so improbable that they had not understood it. The disciples have abandoned the Lord, fearful that they also may be killed as His followers. Then the women who had gone to the grave bring back a fantastic story. Could they and we believe it?
God gave Jeremiah a physical example of what was happening in the spiritual realm in the nation. Jeremiah was to bury a pair of linen shorts, or sometimes translated belt, then later dig it up. What common, everyday things does God use to teach you lessons?
Paul did not give up telling others about Jesus although he was just run out of three towns and experienced little fruit in Athens. How could he keep going? How can you keep going when you experience difficulties in life?
Paul has preached in Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens with varying degrees of success. In the first three towns, Paul was forced to leave because of mob action. He was essentially laughed out of Athens. Now he comes to Corinth. Who will encourage him? What will he hear from the persecuted church of Thessalonica?
God made a bold move in allowing Christ to die for our sins on the cross. God also sent supernatural events to show what was happening in the spiritual realm. There was an earthquake and the curtain in the temple was split in two from top to bottom. Many tombs broke open and holy people who had died were raised to life. Where do you need God to move boldly in your life?
There is a spiritual battle in your life. Satan wants to destroy what you are doing for the Lord. He continues to use the same tactics today as he did in the Bible. He wants to blind people to prevent the advancement of the Gospel. Satan doesn’t want you to be forgiven. He doesn’t want you to experience the fullness of life. But Jesus does! When Saul experienced opposition, the Holy Spirit gave him a word that changed the whole story.
The early church can model so many great principals to us today. The church in Antioch met in homes not in church buildings. This opens up the possibilities for people who resist going to church. They had an establish system of mentorship to develop leaders and to send them out. They were diverse but united. As Paul and Barnabas were sent on their first mission trip, they began to spread this type of church from the book of Acts.
Jesus has endured several biased trials. His disciples have almost all deserted Him. Pilate has ordered that Jesus be whipped, and then Jesus is expected to carry His cross out to the place of crucifixion. But still Jesus goes on, why? Because of His love for each of us.
Jeremiah was called by God because God had designed him for kingdom work. Each of us has a call of God on our lives. God will prepare and empower us for His work. How has God been preparing you for His plan?
After Pentecost and the giving of the Holy Spirit, the believers began to experience a reality they had never seen before. The Holy Spirit was poured over all Christians in order to build up the church. He speaks to you to guide you and to help unfold God’s plan for your life. The journey on this earth is challenging but you’ll how the Holy Spirit prompts you and protects you. God speaks to every one of His children.
In the OT God would give the Holy Spirit to people for a particular time and they would speak the exact words of the Lord. It was only for a few people and for a certain moment. Now in the NT, the Holy Spirit was poured on all believers, not just some. And the prophetic is given to build up faith, to encourage, and to comfort the church. The ministry of the Holy Spirit is through you and to you.
As we conclude the journey with Jonah, Jonah is angry. He is upset with God because did not destroy the people of Nineveh. God is not only working with the Ninevehites but also with Jonah. God continues to work in this fallen world. How is He working with you?
Encouragement can significantly impact our lives. Persecution can be a difficult season. But that led the Christians in Jerusalem to spread the Gospel. God uses hard seasons for great purposes. Barnabas goes to Antioch to encourage the believers there. And when no one believes Saul’s conversion, Barnabas brings him alongside. Encouraging others can completely shift the course of their lives.
God sent the Holy Spirit to give power and boldness to share the good news of the Gospel. The Spirit gave Peter the courage to not only speak to the Jew but also to the Gentiles. This was unthinkable for the time. God gives you the Holy Spirit to unfold the plan for your life that is more than you can imagine. But His plans may be different than what you would expect. They are always better. The Holy Spirit gave Peter the directions and the boldness to obey God plan and as Peter obeys, God is glorified.
Jesus was arrested as He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane with His disciples. He is taken to several trials, all of which are illegal in some way. But even in the midst of this unfairness, Jesus perseveres. God is working the middle of this evil world.
Bad things happen to good people. Sometimes these bad things happen to people we know. And sometimes these bad things happen to us. Which brings up the question: Why does God let bad things happen to people who don’t deserve it. It’s because of sin. Adam and Eve pulled away from God, but instead of ending it all there, His love for us endured. God will make all things right, He will judge justly and the wrongs will be redeemed.
Our time here on earth is pretty irrelevant if you consider the eternity that God offers us. Even if we live into our 90’s its slight in terms of infinity. We need to live our lives on the eternal spectrum. Jeremiah lived his life in this manner, and as such was able to consistently deliver God’s message without fear of the repercussions. We, too, will find fearlessness here on earth when we fully grasp the implications of eternity with Christ.
Did you ever wonder if God gives second chances? Jonah got one when the fish spit him onto the beach. How is God working with you in His compassion and forgiveness to give you a second chance?
In today's story, Paul is accused of turning the world upside down with the message of Jesus. This Gospel message can transform those who are receptive to it and aggravate those who refuse it. Thus, we have the spiritual battle. But this battle can act to strengthen our faith just as physical exercise strengthens our bodies. Where does God want to make you stronger?
When you come to faith and believe in Jesus as your Savior, you should be problem free, right? Not really. Paul certainly believed in Jesus but in today's story, he has all kinds of battles. Paul can show us how to deal with the battles of life.
Who has inspired you to be an imitator of Christ? The Thessalonian church imitated Paul and Jesus and as a result gained a reputation for their faith. How is God calling you to a deeper faith with Him? Who do you want to imitate?
How powerful are your prayers? Paul prayed for the Thessalonians daily. The ministry there wasn't easy but Paul loved the church in spite of the battles.
After Paul casts out a demon from a servant girl, the girls' owners are unhappy. They start a mob action against Paul and Silas. This results in a beating and imprisonment. How could God possibly bring something positive out of the situation?
Paul and Silas follow the lead of the Holy Spirit and go to Philippi. Their obedience leads to a fruitful harvest. Lydia is one of their first converts and gives them a place to base their operations. But a battle looms as Paul casts out a demon from a servant girl.
How do we discern between a test from God and a hindrance from the enemy? Paul had to figure out if the enemy was stopping them from preaching the Word or if it was God changing their plans. Paul does everything he can to further the Gospel.
Paul wants to revisit the churches that were planted on his first mission trip. Unfortunately, he and Barnabas get into a heated argument over John Mark and go their separate ways. How should Christians disagree? What does Paul have to tell us in this story?
In our story for today, Jesus gives us a model for seeking and following God's will. How do we, as humans, do such a thing. Pastors Tom and Paula discuss this issue.
God pursues Jonah even though he is disobedient. Jonah is put in a watery timeout which gives him time to think and pray. God often uses great distress in our lives to soften our hearts. Often, we only look to God when we are out of other options. But God is a God of second chances. What has the Lord rescued you to do?
When people are going through tough situations, some will say God will never give you more than you can handle. Let’s not forget this is only true with the power of Jesus. God puts us in situations where our character can grow. When we are being pressed down, take encouragement from knowing that God will not let us be destroyed. He will bring fruitfulness from the trial we are facing. But for positive character formation to happen, we must seek God and His guidance. May our character always bring glory to God’s kingdom.
The Passover ritual had its own words of explanation for the food and drink, relating to the events of the deliverance of God's people from Egypt. In today's text, Jesus gives His disciples new meaning to these terms which show us how Jesus will deliver us.
Jonah had served God in the past, but now God had a new assignment for him. It was one he didn't like and so he tried to outrun God. How do you react when God has a new assignment for you? What will be the consequences of your decision to accept it or decline it?
We have messages coming at us from every direction. Companies and people are constantly trying to push their ideals and morals on us. They want to convince us that their way is right. This can be confusing and blur the lines of right and wrong. However, you can seek God and ask Him for wisdom. God desires to give us His wisdom generously. But we have a part to play, we must spend time in His presence and His Word.
Jesus in in Jerusalem. The Jewish leadership is plotting how to get rid of Jesus who they see as a problem. His followers love Him and one woman anoints Him with expensive oil to show her devotion. But not all his followers are so loyal. One disciple decides to betray Jesus. What can we learn from this tumultuous time from the life of Jesus?
God intervenes in the life of both the country of Israel and the country of Aram or Syria. Not only is the battle in the physical realm, it is also in the spiritual realm. The Lord uses kindness to bless both sides. How does the Lord intervene in your spiritual battles?
Many animals travel in groups and there is a reason for this. It’s for protection. When an animal gets separated from a group, the enemy attacks. Spiritually, our enemy acts the same way toward us. If we forget to use the armor God has given us through His Word, the Holy Spirit and fellowshipping with the body of Christ, we become weak and separated. We become a target for the enemy. God has given us the armor, but we need to use it.
In our story the Lord is the one who has forgiven us a great debt and He expects us to forgive others the small debts. The good news is we can with His help. Paul writes in Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me." God knows that unforgiveness hinders us in so many ways especially in our relationship with Him. Bitterness and unforgiveness move us away from God, but forgiveness moves us closer to God. Who do you need to forgive?
The Lord had asked Elijah, "What are you doing here?" Then he assigned Elisha to be Elijah's successor. Elijah followed the Lord's direction and now it was time for God to take Elijah home. What would Elisha ask for as he became the prophet for Israel?
Have you ever gotten yourself to a place where you felt good about your level of fitness? But if you stop working at it you will soon lose what you’ve gained and find yourself out of shape again. If we ignore our relationship with the Lord, it will rot and die over time. Our relationship with God is a constant work in progress. It needs attention and it is either growing or rotting. We must put God’s will before our own and spend time investing in our relationship with Him.
Bitterness and unforgiveness move us away from God, but forgiveness moves us closer to God. When I ask the Lord to forgive me and I forgive others it changes my heart. This is when God can begin to transform us to become more like Jesus. Is there someone you need to forgive? How would God transform your life with forgiveness?
Elijah had just had a mountain top experience, but then dropped into a valley of despair. How does God treat us when we get discouraged? Listen to Elijah's journey to get insight into your own spiritual journey.
Jesus' cousin, John the Baptist, has just been killed. Jesus and His disciples go to spend some time alone, but the crowds follow. Instead of having time to grieve, the disciples and Jesus spend time ministering to the crowd and end the time by feeding all of them. Jesus sends the disciples ahead, across the Sea of Galilee, and spends some time alone with the Father. How does He plan to catch up to the disciples?
The nation of Israel has drifted away from God, but God wants to call them back. God has planned a major intervention and the nation gets to watch.
Have you ever faced a challenge and thought to yourself, “there’s no way I can do this?” Most of us have. When God gives us a task to accomplish it is often bigger than we can handle on our own. In doing this, God teaches us to rely on Him to get it done. For if everything came easy to us, our fleshly nature would give ourselves the credit instead of God. How awesome that God wants us to rely on Him. We don’t have to do it alone.
Here is Jesus, surrounded by pressures on all sides. His own followers don’t yet really understand what he’s doing. People are badgering him from every direction to heal them, to cast out evil spirits, to be there for them in their every need. At the same time, opposition is growing. Religious pressure groups are stirring up trouble and they demand a sign. Some are even saying he’s in league with the devil. He knows where it’s all leading. And still he goes on.
Have you gotten the impression that the God of the Old Testament was mean and judgmental while Jesus in the New Testament was compassionate and full of grace? Listen to discover the character of God in the Old Testament.
When things are going well for us, we can forget to whom the glory belongs. We like to think our success is something that we alone have done. It is something that we have created, however, without God none of our success would be possible. Everything we have been given in this life is because of God's grace and love. Don't forget to give God the glory and praise in all things.
Joseph now rules in Egypt. His brothers come to Egypt to buy food and have no clue that Joseph is even alive, let alone the one who will sell them the food. What happens as the brothers are reunited?
The Pharisees were hung up on their rules to the point that they had no compassion for either hungry disciples or a man with a deformed hand. Jesus is counter cultural and shows compassion for both. Where do you need Jesus to show compassion to you?
What we spend our time, talents, and energy on determines what kind of person we are and who we will become. When we turn our focus on the cross and God's Word, it will change our heart and transform us. It can change us into a person who desires to serve God.
Dreams continue to influence Joseph's life. Until this point, his life has seemed to go from bad to worse and Joseph doesn't have any idea how God has been working in the background. Now the tide turns in a surprising way. How is God working in surprising ways in your life?
Joseph has not only become a slave, now, because of false accusations, he is in prison. What does this do to his relationship with God? Who will God bring into his life that will make a difference? God had given Joseph dreams, now what dreams will God give the other prisoners?
Many of us have gardened; perhaps you just think that is a hobby. But the next time you garden think about how God is a gardener with us. God cares and nurtures us. When we understand how much God loves us and cares for us, it will change our relationship with Him. It will transform our hearts.
After healing the Jewish leper and the Gentile servant, Jesus continues to demonstrate His authority over disease. He heals Peter’s mother-in-law and many others. He warns the crowds that there will be a cost to follow Him. After a long day of teaching, Jesus and His disciples sail across the Sea of Galilee. A storm comes up suddenly and the disciples are afraid they will die. Jesus simply tells the wind and waves to stop, and they do. He has shown He has authority over the natural elements.
Jesus has just finished the sermon on the mount. He has begun to reveal Himself as Messiah through His teaching. He has spoken of restoration for the marginalized and shown Himself to be something different than the political Messiah they were expecting. The people had been amazed at how Jesus taught with authority and now Jesus begins to demonstrate this authority and brings the Kingdom of God to the people.
We all need something that encourages us on our walk of faith. In the same way, we need to also encourage others. Ruth was an encourager to Naomi in her struggles. We all experience discouragement at times. That's why encouragers are so important. The Lord extends His hand to us to encourage and strengthen us. God is not distant but with us and for us.
As Jesus concludes His sermon on the mount, He gives the disciples, the crowd and the religious leaders four basic warnings: they must choose between two kinds of gates/roads. prophets, Lordship, and foundations. Jesus' listeners had a choice to make and so do we. Which will you choose?
Joseph has gone from favored son to slave. Now false accusations send him to prison. Where is God? How does Joseph's relationship with God help him? How can our relationship with God help us?
How do we respond when things go wrong? Do we feel that the Lord is against us? It's okay to question God. He hears us and want us to seek Him through prayer. He can change us from the inside out. God can restore our joy in the darkest of times.
Joseph's life was good. He was his dad's favorite son and even God had given him some great dreams. In one day everything changes. Where is God in suffering?
Matthew has given us insight into who Jesus would be through His genealogy and family. We have looked at Ruth, Manasseh, Zerubbabel, and Joseph. Now that Jesus was born, Matthew continues to look at the prophesies about Jesus and how they give us insight to who Jesus is. He quotes three different OT passages from the prophets Hosea, Jeremiah, and Isaiah. These quotes are used to help tell the story of what happened after the wise men left. They also help point to Jesus as the Messiah and tie the story of Jesus with the history of Israel. This gives a much deeper meaning to a simple narrative. How has God been planning the coming of Jesus for thousands of years?
Just because God sends you on a call doesn't mean it will be easy. In order to fight spiritual battles, you must use spiritual tools. Secular tools won't work. Paul and Silas praise God while in jail. This witness draws others to God. How about you? How do you react in a difficult situation? We are called to praise God in the good times and the bad times. No matter what , keep on praying and praising the Lord because it changes the atmosphere.
Mary had conceived a child by the power of the Holy Spirit and Joseph was considering how he was going to handle hearing such news. Life was taking an unexpected turn for Joseph. God sends an angel to intervene, and this gives revelation about the child that Mary is carrying. Joseph responds with trust. Where is the Holy Spirit working in your life? What is he asking you to do or change?
Joseph is a young man of 17 growing up in a dysfunctional home. He is a favored son and his brothers are jealous. He shares a couple dreams that God has given him and this further inflames the situation. What do you do when you've been hurt by your family?
As believers we are told to pray. Our prayers are powerful when we are praying in God's will. How do we do that? We must first be walking with God. It is then that our desires will align with His. That doesn't mean life won't have moments of trouble. We are constantly in a spiritual battle. We must be ready to stand strong when God has called us.
Jacob, Joseph's father, was a deceiver for the first part of his life. He had cheated his brother and left home because of death threats. He tries to find safety in the house of his Uncle Laban. He soon finds out that his uncle is a bigger cheat than he is. As Jacob and his family return home, Jacob must face his brother. By this time Jacob has grown in his faith, the situation forces him to trust God. How does God reward this change of heart?
Zerubbabel was born in captivity in Babylon but also born of royal blood. Cyrus, the king, had decreed that the Jewish people could return and rebuild their temple in Jerusalem. How would he lead the people? What would they do in the face of opposition?
God had given a promise to both Abraham and Isaac, but did Isaac's son, Jacob, trust this promise? How does that affect Jacob's actions? What does Jacob do when God speaks to him? Will he trust God fully? Listen in to learn more about Jacob, Joseph's father.
Do you have black sheep in your family tree? Even Jesus has them. Manasseh is listed in the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1. After coming out of Egypt the nation of Israel was born. It was a unified country for many years but political conflict split the nation into the northern Kingdom of Israel and the southern Kingdom of Judah. The northern Kingdom never followed God and the country was destroyed. The southern Kingdom only partially followed God. King Hezekiah, Manasseh's father had brought religious reforms and worship of the true God back to the land. Manasseh would change all that...
Matthew begins with the genealogy of Jesus. To many of us this is just a long list of names that we have never heard of. But a Jew of the first century would find this impressive and captivating. Uzziah was the 9th king of the southern kingdom of Judah. He lived just before the prophet of Isaiah. Uzziah’s grandfather had repaired the temple, but then returned to idol worship. Uzziah’s father, Amaziah, half-heartedly followed the true God, and at the end of his life turned away from the Lord and was murdered. Would Uzziah follow God? Would he finish well?
Abraham, Joseph's great-grand father, has died. Now Isaac, Joseph's grandfather, faces an obstacle in his life. There is great famine in the country. Where should he go to protect his family? God has given the family a promise, but they must survive. What does God have to say?
Ancestors influence our lives. Joseph's great grand-father, Abraham, received a promise from God. It was a promise that his descendants would become a great nation. Joseph would eventually be born into this family of great promise.
Have you ever worked hard on some type of job only to have someone undo your work in a short time? Even though the Jerusalem church had okayed Gentiles becoming believers without having to become Jews first, hardliner Jewish believers continue to claim the opposite. This group is so zealous that when they hear the report of Paul’s mission trip, they go visit these same towns. There they begin to preach against Paul. This message confused the new believers. Many began to follow them and to forget what Paul had preached. Some weren’t sure what to do and wrote a letter to Paul. When Paul received the letter, he was very upset and immediately wrote a letter in return
How do we tell if changes are just outward actions or a true change of the heart? Institutions that focus on religious rules instead of the spiritual tend to judge actions instead the heart. We might not always be able to tell, but God knows. It is the matters of the heart that Christ truly cares about. Though Godly actions may reflect a Godly heart, they may not be one in the same. Ask God to reveal to you if your motives are inspired by Him. If you need to repent, the Holy Spirit can help.
How many times has God gone ahead of you? Because Jesus died on the cross for our sins, we can be forgiven. God always desires His children to walk in His will. Sometimes the things God calls us to can feel overwhelming. When we choose to walk in obedience, there will be fruit. God can use our fruit to bless others. If God is asking you to do something, you can be certain that He will go ahead to prepare the way. So don't be afraid, have courage, for God will equip you to do all that He is calling you to do.
Paul has just returned from a mission trip where he put his life on the line for the Gospel in every town. He had preached the freedom Christ had given His followers. Now Peter was being influenced by those who insisted that Christians had to follow all the Jewish laws. He was leading others astray by this. What was Paul to do?
We can't do thing on our own, but the Lord gives us the strength . If you are struggling with something, just ask the Lord for more strength and wisdom. The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. When we come to the revelation that Jesus is Lord, there is a transformation within us. God gives us the strength to live our our calling as we begin to obey Him. He is only as far away as a prayer.
Those who are only concerned about themselves fail to see God. Shortly after Jesus rose from the dead, He walked with two of His followers. They were concerned that Jesus had not freed them from the Romans. But when they focused on Scriptures, their hearts burned within them. They had failed to see that they were walking with Jesus until after He left.
It would have been closer to return to their home church directly but Paul and Barnabas didn't finish their mission trip the easy way. They returned to each church and entrusted their care to the Lord. Where do you need to persevere despite struggles and trust the Lord?
When the Lord calls us to faith, what happens to our heart? He begins to change it. Our lives reflect what is in our heart. When we allow Christ to mold us, we become more like Him. This process isn't comfortable or easy, but it is well worth it. God changes our heart through His grace which gives us strength to follow Him. It's not a one time event but a daily renewing of our minds. Jesus is constantly pleading our cause so we need to do our part to repent and allow ourselves to be transformed.
Paul and Barnabas had witnessed in Pisidian Antioch where many believed but jealous Jews had chased them out. They then travel to Iconium 80 miles to the southeast along the main road. There again, many believe, but they are forced to leave because of the threats of a mob that disagreed with them. This mob consisted of both Jews and Gentiles. Now they are continuing down the road to witness to Lystra and Derbe. What will await them here?
Sometimes we don’t recognize that Jesus has joined us on our walk. We are so focused on ourselves that we can’t see that Jesus has intervened. But even in the bad times, God is bringing people into our lives to encourage us. God always cares about us, we might not see Him, but we can be assured that Jesus is always with us.
Even on His way the the cross, the main focus of Jesus was on our hearts. A hardened hart lacks compassion for others because compassion may be seen as a sign of weakness. But what did Jesus say? He had compassion on the crowds because they were like a sheep without a shepherd.
How do our hearts respond to who Jesus is? Not everyone responds the same. Some will come but others will push Jesus away. As a believer, we have great hope in the name of Jesus.
Hemos creado una página en español para nuestros amigos que hablan español. Encontrarás el resto de la historia de José en: http://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast-1
The God of wonder has given us resurrection power through His Holy Spirit. What was once impossible for us is possible through Jesus. Jesus told His disciples, “with man this is impossible, but with God, all things are possible.” Truly all barriers have been removed when it comes to participating in the will of God for our lives. Sin does not have dominion over us because we can walk in the newness of life.
God strengthens our faith by allowing us to be part of His work here on earth. Sometimes these opportunities can take us out of our comfort zone. These are the times that God stretches us and build our faith. When we allow God to stretch us, we also allow Him to transform us. This builds Godly character. When we are faithful in little things, God will give us opportunities to serve Him in big things.
Even though Paul had been kicked out of town while ministering in Pisidian Antioch, he continues down the road. He and Barnabas enter the town of Iconium where more adventures await them.
As believers, we know that Satan comes to steal, destroy, and lie, but Christ gives us abundant life. How do we become a person of Godly character? First, we must repent of our sins and turn to God in faith. It takes becoming a believer in Jesus. Then, instead of letting the enemy in, we let the Holy Spirit in. Today we look at the life of Judas Iscariot and what it has to teach us.
Tom and Paula discuss how Paul endured hardships to travel to what is now central Turkey. A member of the mission team, John Mark, left unexpectedly. Paul and Barnabas persevere because the salvation of others is worth the hardship. Where does God want you to persevere?
When we encounter the God of wonder, He changes how we see ourselves, how we think and our priorities in life. The wonder of God gives us insight and courage to move forward in faith. Every Christian should be able to look back and see a specific time where God intervened in their life. A transformed life is a tell-tale sign that someone has responded to the Holy Spirit.
José es un hijo predilecto de su padre y como resultado, odiado por sus hermanos. Dios tiene un plan para todos los hijos y da un sueño a José. En su inmadurez, José comparte los sueños con la familia que rompe aún más las relaciones. Dios todavía tiene un plan a pesar de que los hijos no son conscientes de ello. ¿Cuál es el plan de Dios para ti? Aunque seas joven en la fe, Dios te puede usar. Este es el quinto mensaje de esta serie. Texto: Génesis 37:1-11.
The foundation for the first mission trip is completed. The church at Antioch commissions Saul and Barnabas and sends them off to Cyprus to preach the Gospel. Where would God like to send you? It may be far away or, more likely, just next door.
How can I be fruitful in God's Kingdom? Do what Jesus did. It's not complicated. Serve others like Jesus did. But we need to spend time with God by feeding our spiritual life. Just as we feed our physical bodies so we don't starve, we must spend time in the Word and repent when necessary to keep our spiritual life alive. This is the third message in the series Road to Victory.
God is merciful and full of grace, but the world is confused as to who God is. What God wants for us is often the opposite of what the world tells us. If Satan can’t get us to fall into sin, he will cause confusion to stunt our spiritual growth. Satan confused Adam and Eve and caused them to doubt the character of God. It is through the Bible that we can know the truth which gives us purpose for our lives.
Dios quería que Jacob dependería de él. El connizado de Jacob finalmente lo puso en una situación en la que necesitaba a Dios, y Dios era fiel. Dios tenía un plan para hacer una nación de los descendientes de Jacob. Dios bendice a Jacob y cambia su nombre a Israel, lo que significa "que Dios prevalezce." Los descendientes de Jacob se convertirían en la nación de Israel. ¿Dónde quiere Dios que te humilles para que él te pueda usar? ¿Cómo cambiaría su vida si dependiera de Dios? Este es el cuarto mensaje de la serie, El viaje crítico de José. Para mas información o para apoyar a este ministerio por favor visite lightofchristradio.com Texto: Génesis 32:1-32.
Pastors Tom and Paula discuss the state of the Jerusalem church before Paul begins his first missionary journey. What is happening in Jerusalem? What church issues and doctrines need to be settled before Paul can begin to further the reach of the Gospel? How do the same things still happen today?
What is the key to walking in the Light? Jesus calls us to repent. When we repent, we turn away from darkness and walk into the light. It is then that life begins to make sense. People may be satisfied to live in the dark but that is not God's desire for us. When we trust in Jesus, He opens our eyes to what we couldn't see before. This is part one of the third message of the series, Road to Victory.
What does it mean to seek God? It means to pursue it. When you seek the kingdom of God and its righteousness, it changes my direction and purpose in life. This is simple but profound. The most important thing we can do in our life is to seek the kingdom of God. Look inside yourself. Are you building up your own kingdom or God’s? Some of the most poisonous sins come out of thinking that we are in control of our own lives. Instead of having to control our own kingdom, we can seek God’s and let Him add all the other things to it.
Dios fue fiel a Jacob, el padre de José. Dios trabajó en la vida de Jacob a pesar de sus fracasos, la falta de confianza y el comportamiento pecaminoso. Cuando Jacob comenzó a confiar en el Señor, cambió su vida. Dios no ha cambiado. Él trabajará en tu vida A pesar de tu falta de fe y pecado. Pero Dios puede trabajar más poderosamente cuando confías en él. ¿Cómo podría la confianza de Dios y sus promesas hacer un cambio a su vida? Texto: Génesis 28:10-22. Este es el tercer mensaje en nuestra serie El viaje crítico de José. Para más información o para apoyar este Ministerio vaya a lightofchristradio.com.
How has being adopted into God’s family changed your life? God changes us, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t a work in progress. The disciples were continually learning from Jesus. But they, like us, were called to a ministry of reconciliation. This takes faith which is trusting and following even when future is unknown. An attitude of service brings true greatness in God’s Kingdom.
We all mess up at times and we may try to look better from the outside than we are on the inside. Jesus used the fig tree and the clearing of the temple as lessons on how important it is to have authentic faith lived out. Our actions should match our hearts which need to be right with Jesus. If your heart needs cleaning, God can help. He sent Jesus to clean us up; we just need to have faith in Him. Do you feel like you have a mountain of sin? Let Jesus take care of it.
After his conversion, Paul had gone back to live in his hometown of Tarsus. Barnabas is dispatched from the Jerusalem church to check out the church in Antioch. The early church is growing in an unexpected way. The Gentiles are coming to faith in great numbers in Antioch. How has God worked in an unexpected way in your life?
Isaac era el abuelo de José. Tuvo que superar los obstáculos en su vida para seguir a Dios. Dios alentó a Isaac y usó estos obstáculos para ayudarlo a madurar en la fe. ¿Qué obstáculos enfrenta? ¿Dónde necesitas que el Señor te anime? ¿Cómo ha usado el Señor los problemas en su vida para siempre? Texto: Génesis 26:1-6. Este es el segundo mensaje en nuestra serie El viaje crítico de José. Para más información o para apoyar este Ministerio vaya a lightofchristradio.com.
In his gospel, Mark puts two stories together, the story of the fig tree and the clearing of the temple. In both these stories things look great from the outside but are not so good on the inside. The temple looked magnificent but wasn't bearing much fruit and Jesus decides to do some cleaning. What kind of fruit are you bearing? This is the first part of the second message in the story series, The Road to Victory.
Sometimes we think the disciples were giants of faith because they walked with Jesus. In our story today, the disciples, like us, are a work in progress. They were arguing about who was the greatest. We, too, are worldly but Jesus will teach us just as He taught the disciples. This is the first part of the first message in the series Kingdom Redefined.
Your words have power. If you speak negative words, then the negative will come. If you speak positive words, then the positive will come. We are made in the image of God who spoke creation into being. Our words also have power; the secular world has discovered this. Why shouldn't God's people use God's principle?
Stand on the promises that God has for you in the Bible. Find a promise that pertains to your problem and stand on it. Don't let healing slip away; contend for it.
The leper knew Jesus could heal him, but didn't know if Jesus would be willing to heal him. Jesus touched him and he was healed completely. Jesus was willing to heal then and He is willing to heal now. Malachi 3:6 promises that God doesn't change.
Bruce looks at some verses which contain promises of God's healing. God holds each believer accountable to know what is in the Bible. This is the way we know what God's will is for us.
How do we change to become more like Jesus? Over time, if we allow, God changes me. It is then that serving God becomes a "want to" instead of a "have to." God can help us turn from our selfish ways.
How do we grow in being a servant. So often we want to grow our own kingdom, but God calls us to grow His kingdom. He often asks us to do this by serving others.
Healing is something only God can do. It is a gift. Bruce saw a 14 year old healed of deafness. It was then that the boy's atheist dad, said "Give me your Jesus, now." We can trust God to be gracious and good.
Unforgiveness is a scheme of the enemy. It will rob us of God's plan for our lives. Forgiveness is a choice to release the person for what they owe us. It is a choice to turn the matter over to God and let Him do any necessary punishment. It doesn't mean we have to have warm, fuzzy feeling for the person that harmed us.
Lack of faith or little faith is sighted as reasons Jesus could not heal and reason that prayers may not be answered. Are you trying to make things happen yourself? When we work in the "arm of flesh" our accomplishments will unravel. 2 Cor. 5:7 says, "walk by faith, not by sight." Turn things over to Jesus.
Why do we think about Jesus being Lord at a healing conference? He wants to be your Lord before He becomes your Savior. Are you just looking for God to do a miracle in your life? In the eternal sense, the most important thing is your relationship with Jesus.
What does Jesus mean when He says, "away from Me, I never knew you?" What if you do all the Christian stuff, go to church, cast out demons, call Him Lord? But in the midst of the "stuff" do you have a relationship with God? Do you allow Him to be the master of your life?
La historia de José es una historia interesante, que realmente comienza con su bisabuelo, Abraham. Dios llamó a Abraham, lo guio y lo alentó en el viaje. Abraham creyó y confió en Dios, Dios prometió bendecir a sus descendientes. Dios todavía trabaja de la misma manera con nosotros hoy. ¿A qué te esta llamado Dios? ¿Como te ha animado Dios en tu viaje? ¿Cómo nos quiere bendecir Dios cuando confiamos en El?.
Texto: Génesis 12:1-5 y Génesis 15:1-6
Para más información o para apoyar este Ministerio vaya a lightofchristradio.com.
A healing in your life can change your perspective. It can usher in trust for God. It is then we can realize how much God loves us and changes our life.
God likes to work through humans. He waits for people to say yes to Him. We may feel helpless to change a situation but God has a solution. When we seek God's purpose through prayer and cooperate with Him, it can be powerful.
When trials and challenges come, we often try to solve them on our own. We may make a list of things we can do to fix the problem. We might even list these possible solutions from most effective to least. But what if we could find the best outcome guaranteed? Prayer. Our God always operates at optimum; He always makes the right decisions. Why not depend on Him?
When we have a relationship with Christ, we abide in Him. When that happens there is an exchange. Jesus takes our sins and exchanges it for His righteousness. The cross was a one time event that allows this to happen, but righteousness is an on-going process.
God wants us to bear fruit, lasting fruit. You bear fruit every day, but kind are you producing? You can try to produce fruit on your own or you can abide with Christ and let the Spirit produce fruit in you. When you seek the Lord, He can transform your heart and life. When that happens, good fruit of the Spirit comes naturally.
The Lord speaks to us and prompts us in this life so that after we leave this earth, we won’t have regrets. Are you aware of these promptings of the Holy Spirit? God, in His mercy, intervenes in our lives. He is not content for you to stay where you are because He has more than you can imagine for you. Seek God’s presence daily to give room for Him to work through you.
Do you struggle with feeling insignificant when it comes to the things of God? David was the forgotten son in our story but had an obedient heart. Jesus was considered to be irrelevant by many of the people that He encountered. Yet, He continued in the work that God had for Him. God doesn’t look at you like the world does, He looks at your heart. He has in the past and still uses the things despised by the world for His glory. An obedient heart can do significant things in God’s kingdom.
When our heart is right with God, we want to listen to His voice, submit to the Lord, and do His will. To seek God means to want to hear and obey His voice. What have you missed out on in life because you chose not to obey God? It is easy to give into fear, insecurity, and doubt. To overcome these, you must trust God. Fear only prevents you from moving forward in the kingdom of God. If your heart is seeking the Lord, you will want to listen and obey even when fear threatens to overtake you.
We don’t know what God’s plan is when He calls us. The call could be simple or hard, but we don’t know where it will lead. How is the Lord breaking into your life and coaxing you out of your comfort zone? God will meet you where you are and won’t ask you to do something you are not ready for. But as you begin to follow in obedience, He will take you to places that require deeper faith. Getting there will cause you to face your doubts and fears, but as you do, your trust in God will grow. You will find that seeking God will result in a complete and joy-filled life.
Is your heart soft and open to what God desires for you? It required persistence and endurance for the Magi to make the trip to worship the baby Jesus. When we respond to God’s calling, He takes us on a spiritual journey of the heart. But each of us has the responsibility to respond to God’s call by hearing and obeying.
God can use our struggles to help us trust Him more. Our struggles train and prepare us for bigger tasks that God has for us. Just because we agree to something God asks us to do, doesn’t ensure that will be problem free. Mary agreed to God's request to be the mother of Jesus. It was not an easy task. God wants to use our struggles to transform our hearts. The next time you find yourself in a hard place, ask for God’s grace to grow and learn.
Who does God bring on the stage of your life? Are you paying attention? It could be important. God uses circumstances in our live and the lives of others to build us up.
Did Mary fully realize the consequences of what she was saying yes to? Just because we say yes to God doesn’t mean that it is easy. Doubts and fears are common when God asks you to leave your comfort zone. God will ask you to do hard things in your life, but in the end, the rewards far out weigh the discomfort of the moment. God can begin to work on your heart as you obey.
God wants to give us revelation to open our hearts. This will enable us to build the kingdom. God’s spirit works with the Word of God and also with other means. Only God has the power to save. The story of Rahab, an ancestor of Jesus, continues.
God is famous for caring and preparing the way for greater things. He will go before us to fight battles that we fear. He is victorious in places we can’t win. He rescues us. You can trust Him. What is God preparing you for ?
Is what you are asking consistent with the will of Jesus? Jacob wrestled with God. He did not give up. Genesis 32:22-32. Jesus is waiting to hear from you. a. What do you want to tell the Lord? b. What do you want to ask Him? c. What is your want? Make it your ask.
God wants you to have a Biblical understanding of grace so you can experience and extend grace. God can use our prayers to put His kingdom in place. God almost always limits his interventions to our requests for them. God is not intrusive. He waits until He is asked. He longs to be gracious to us. God respects our will.
Sometimes God doesn’t get His way. This may sound heretical to you. Think about it. If a human being does some sinful act, is that God’s will? Of course not. God wants us to follow His will and ways, but at times, we refuse. Then God doesn’t get His way because He has allowed us to have free will. He desires our love, but true love must be a choice.
Jesus wants us to pray that his Kingdom will materialize on earth the same way it does in heaven. What does that mean for the Kingdom to materialize.? God wants us to know the Kingdom looks like the King. The kingdom looks like the life, the ministry and the teaching and person of Jesus. Jesus embodied the Kingdom.
Jesus can transform people. That transformation acts as a testimony to who God is. Things that God does in our lives can also be used to change people around us and generations to come. This means that our lives don’t only affect people now, but people in the future. Ask Jesus to use your life as a testament to Him. This can inspire people in generations to come.
Are you finding life to be too hard? Analyze the burdens that you are carrying. What things are you carrying that you shouldn’t be? Ask God which burdens to turn over to Him. God wants you to trust and rest in Him. Have trust in Jesus; He will see to the things that you can’t.
Some may come to Christ ashamed with zero confidence. We are all unworthy of His grace, yet, He offers it anyway. Christ will accept anyone who asks for Him. Peter didn't deserve Christ's blessing after denying Him three times. Even so, Jesus rose from the dead, met with Peter, and asked him to continue in the work that He had for him. We learn from this that Jesus wishes us to seek Him and spread His Good News even though we are not worthy.
Peter denied knowing Jesus three times. The night before this had happened, Peter had bragged that he was the greatest follower of Christ. After the denials, Peter was ashamed and heartbroken. When he was reunited with the resurrected Jesus, Peter felt unworthy and couldn’t honestly tell Jesus that he was willing to die for Him. Only with the grace extended by Jesus could Peter continue the work Jesus had for him. Peter was to shepherd God’s people.
After Jesus banished the demons from the demon possessed man, the people of the town nearby were frightened and asked Jesus to leave. Pastor Tom teaches us today, that Jesus didn't give up on those people. We learn that Jesus left the man, from whom He'd banished the demons, behind so that the man could share his testimony. And he did! This shows us that we too, are to share our testimony with all who we can. Go out each day willing and ready, to share with others what Jesus has done for you!
The things we do in this world affect those around us. Sin, whether ours or someone else's, affects us all. When someone goes against the will of God, there will be repercussions. When we follow God's will, we affect the world in a way that will make it better. When we follow Christ, not only do we gain treasure in heaven, but the world becomes a better place.
Now a days, with all the knowledge we have, we think we can solve our problems on our own. We approach a problem as a physical problem when often it is a spiritual problem. Spiritual problems can only be solved by Jesus. As you go out into the world, realize that you know the path to Jesus. Share His Word with others so they may know the cure for spiritual problems.
We don't need big fancy words to pray. We only need a heart that wants to connect with God. Prayer isn't just a checklist to fulfill an obligation. Remember that in prayer we are connecting with our Creator God, our Good Father.
Great faith will get noticed by the world. If you live out your faith, others will wonder why you are different. Daniel's commitment to God and God's power to save Daniel inspired King Darius to decree that all should follow Daniel's God. It is when we put our faith into action that we can bring the kingdom of God to others.
When weathering life’s storms we need to pray. We need to realize that we are in a spiritual battle; the enemy wants to destroy us. Daniel had a problem but refused to give up prayer. He asked for God’s help and was saved from the lion’s den. It takes humbling ourselves to ask the Lord for help. Faith and prayer can get us through things that would kill us.
God had reached His limit with Belshazzar’s attitude and actions. Even with this, God worked through Daniel to speak to the king and the nation. God can work even when people reject Him.
Belshazzar is desperate to know what is written on the wall. Daniel can interpret it but is Belshazzar desperate enough to change? Will it make a difference in his life? Listen to find out how the character of each man is demonstrated in a stressful time.
The Lord wants us to pray for each other to build the Kingdom. This is part of how God builds a kingdom that will never end or be destroyed. As God builds this kingdom, He rescues His children. Prayer is an integral part of this. Where do you need prayer for rescue?
How do we remain calm in stressful times? In our text, Daniel 2, officials had come to tell Daniel that he was to be executed. In this stressful time, Daniel immediately prayed. What would happen in our lives if instead of worrying we would take time and pray? Pastor Tom explores what this may look like.
What we build on in this life determines what reward we’ll receive in the next. If you’ve trusted in Christ as your Savior, your eternal destination is secure, but Scripture clearly shows God will reward us for what we’ve done with what He’s given us here on earth. Today Pastor Tom teaches that if we build our own kingdom, it’s like building out of straw and in the end, it will burn up and there’ll be nothing left. Reevaluate your life today-how are you investing what God has given you here?
Have we become so absorbed in the world that we’ve forgotten who we are in Christ? In today’s passage, Paul reminds the Corinthians who they are and encourages them to look up and focus on Christ. When we do this, it humbles us and brings us to repentance, as we’ll hear from Pastor Tom today. If we remain immature spiritually, we only build our kingdom, but when we become mature in the faith, we start building God’s kingdom. Is your life characterized by a desire for worship, reading God’s Word and prayer?
What keeps us from having an eternal focus and a deepening relationship with God? Our daily lives are bombarded with messages of instant gratification and the here and now. Satan will do anything he can to deceive us into thinking right now is what’s most important, as we’ll hear from Pastor Tom today. Satan knows if he can distract us with what the world has to offer right now, our focus won’t be on kingdom work. Pray for God to give you His perspective so you can live with eternity in mind.
Did you know that the word hypocrite originally means a stage actor or pretender? We don’t like to think of ourselves as ever being hypocrites, but if we put on a mask in relationships and pretend to be a way we aren’t, then we’re guilty of this. Today Pastor Tom teaches that it’s dangerous as a Christian to pretend to be somebody we’re not. If we want to grow in the character of Christ, we need to expose our weaknesses and be transparent with each other. When we bring things into the light, God can then bring healing.
Have you considered what a gift the body of Christ is? If we were left in isolation once we came to know Christ, this life would be very discouraging and empty. But, God in His grace, has given us each other to help along this journey. Today, Pastor Paula shares how each of us has weak points and blind spots that other trusted believers can reveal to us. The purpose of this is not for condemnation, but for repentance and growth. Let’s keep these relationships real, vulnerable, and full of grace.
Do you find it easy to slip into self-reliance when times are good? It seems much more necessary to run to God during hard seasons, but God wants us to maintain a constant attitude of gratefulness and reliance on Him, as we’ll hear from Pastor Paula today. As we study King Hezekiah’s life, we’ll learn that God has given us everything we have to do His kingdom work and sometimes God tests us in the good times to refine us and grow us. Practice making thankfulness a natural part of each day.
Let’s be honest with ourselves-do we prefer the safety and comfort inside the church over being out in the harvest field of the world? We can say all we want that the church’s mission is saving the lost, but what this comes down to is individuals being intentional in relationships with non-Christians in their everyday world. Pastor Tom teaches today that God wants us to move in the power of the Spirit in love and self-discipline. If you have become lazy in this area, ask God to awaken your heart to the lost around you.
Are you looking for the divine appointments God brings your way? How incredible that God has chosen to use us to spread His Word and impact the Kingdom. Today, Pastor Tom encourages us to think back to those who had an impact on us coming to Christ. There are certain people in our lives right now that God wants us to pour into and show Christ. Fear and anxiety can threaten to discourage us from this, but we need to remember these are not from God. We have the power of His Spirit.
We can cruise through life, caught up in the business and distractions, not even aware of the spiritual battle we’re in. This is the plan of the enemy, to render us useless as believers because we’re filling our lives with so many things that don’t matter. As Pastor Tom teaches today, he reminds us to put on the full armor of God, so we can stand against Satan’s attacks. When we fully realize the battle we’re facing, we can find strength in the Lord and in each other. But don’t forget victory is already yours in Jesus!
For those not in a relationship with God, it’s not obvious to them that they’re in bondage to their sin. When Jesus sets us free, it changes everything we’re about and we begin to see God’s eternal perspective, as we’ll hear from Pastor Tom today. Only in God’s power can our hearts be changed. He opens our eyes to what’s important to Him and we’re free to pursue His plan for our life. God fills our hearts with good things and we can begin to bear fruit that will last. What’s stored up in your heart?
Isn’t it a relief we don’t need to live up to everyone else’s expectations? God has designed us to be free in Him, defined by Him and who He says we are. As Pastor Paula teaches today on the fiery furnace, we can draw some parallels between the Jewish men God saved and our own relationship with Him. The men were freed from their bonds, God walked with them, and they were given salvation. Jesus has done the same for us! Avoid the temptation to let your stuff or others defineyou-you are a child of God!
Have you ever heard that what’s inside you will come out when you’re under pressure? What we believe and put our faith in will determine our actions when we find ourselves in trying circumstances. As Pastor Paula covers the story of the fiery furnace, we find that the three Jewish men in this story base their relationship with themselves on their relationship with God. They are defined by Him, so they can stand up when under pressure. Are you as secure in your relationship with God?
What if Jesus asked you the question, “Do you want to grow in your relationship with me?” Well, the answer seems obvious, right? But just because the answer is simple, the way to get there isn’t, as we’ll hear from Pastor Tom today. Good changes in our lives can still be difficult and they require hard work. We must be willing to change and submit to God’s control. Jesus is the best model for us, so we need to be learning from Him through the Word. Then in turn, you can model Jesus to others.
How would you define your relationship with God? Would you say IT defines you? As Pastor Tom teaches today on the story of Jesus healing a man with a long-time illness, we can learn much from the response of the religious leaders. Because they were so focused on their rules, they completely missed the amazing miracle that took place. The more we spend time with God, the more we’ll learn to let Him define who we are. As He grows and changes you, you’ll begin to see yourself and others through God’s eyes.
God has given us an amazing gift in His Word. The Bible allows us to see where God has been and what He has done. Today we’ll hear from Pastor Paula about how Moses was only allowed to see God in all His glory from the back as He passed by. As we learn looking back on God’s part in history in the Bible, we begin to know His character and then trust that in our lives. Your story is being woven in to God’s story and the more you get to know God’s great story through the Bible, the better you’ll see how yours fits into His.
Isn’t it amazing that God is a God who wants to be near His creation, in relationship with us? We’ll learn about the uniqueness of this connection as Pastor Paula highlights Moses’ relationship with God. Moses understood the absolute necessity of having God’s presence go with him. God was also showing the pagan nations that His presence is what set the Israelite’s God apart from the impersonal idols. It was all about a love relationship with His people, and now through Jesus, it still is.
Are there any relationships in your life that need restoration? Doing life with other people can be messy and hard, but God has created us for relationship and many times, this is how people see and experience the love of Christ. Today, Pastor Paula teaches how especially important healthy relationships are in the body of Christ. We need each other in the church to carry out the kingdom purpose God has for us. We can only function rightly through the Spirit as He brings healing and restoration to relationships.
What labels have been placed on you by others or by yourself, either intentionally or unintentionally? We’ll live our lives based on the labels we believe about ourselves, as Pastor Paula teaches today. God has created us in His image, designed for a relationship with Himself. If we have this relationship, the way we see ourselves drastically changes, because now our identity is found in Christ. How would your life change if you let God define you? Hold on to the rich promises of who you are in Christ!
Many of us would be quick to agree that negative attitudes are one of our least favorite things to be around. Whether it's constant grumbling or complaining, they can almost feel contagious at times if we're around them for too long. In today's message, Pastor Tom teaches us about the positive and powerful affects of praise in our lives. In our study, we learn that one of the quickest ways we can turn a sour mood around is by none other than praising God for His wonderful works.
There are several people who are under the impression that God created us and left us to mingle in our own affairs. While believing God exists is a step in the right direction, The God of the Bible is much more loving and caring than we can imagine. In today's message, Pastor Tom teaches us about the loving and caring nature of God that many aren't aware of. In our study, we learn how one of the most powerful ways God displays His caring nature is through miracles and wonders.
There are probably very few, if any of us, that would say we had a trial happen at just the right time in the midst of our lives. Whether big or small, many of us would agree that the trials of life seem to occur at the worst possible timing. In today's message, Pastor Tom reflects on the trial that Joseph and Mary faced as they were waiting to go into labour at any moment. In our study, we learn how God uses the most inconvenient of trials to grow us in both our faith, and our trust in Him.
For many of us, our moment of salvation is a crystal clear experience that we can recall at any given time if asked. Whether it was a direct interaction with Christ, a friend, or a total stranger, we'd be hard pressed to forget that amazing moment and time. In today's message, Pastor Tom encourages us to reflect on how God reached into our lives and called us to Him. In our study, Pastor Tom stirs us to think about anyone that God might be calling us to share the Gospel message with and lead them to Christ.
While many of us would rather not admit it, there are some individuals who we think are simply “too far lost” for salvation. Whether it's a militant atheist or even someone in the occult, we sometimes forget the power of our God who is mighty to save. In today's message, Pastor Tom reminds us that there is no one person who is out of reach for God's salvation and redemption. In our study, we learn that no matter how lost someone might seem, God does whatever it takes to draw that person to Him.
Many of us have probably thought to ourselves that there's no way The Lord would desire to use us for His Kingdom. However, the Scriptures teach us quite the contrary; that God desires to use each and every one of us in His own unique way. In today's message, Pastor Tom teaches us how God seeks out those who are willing to make themselves vessels of The Living God. In our study, we learn that not only does God desire to use us, He also prepares and strengthens the hearts of those that are willing.
Many of us are familiar with Romans 8:28, “And we know that for those who love God, all things work together for good.” However, many of us tend to put a lot less emphasis and interest in “for those that are called according to His purpose.” In today's message, Pastor Tom teaches us the importance of prioritizing God's purpose over our own. In our study, we learn that as disciples of Christ, we've been called to a much greater purpose than anything this world could possibly offer.
Whether we'd like to admit it or not, the trials of life are some of the best ways in which we can learn powerful lessons. Thankfully for us, whether or not we're responsible for the trial we might be currently facing, God will use it for our growth. In today's message, Pastor Tom reflects on the trial of Zechariah and Elizabeth's inability to have children. In our study, we recognize the powerful testimony of Zechariah and Elizabeth's faithfulness to God, regardless their circumstance.
Sharing the good news of Jesus with those around us can be both rewarding and challenging. Today Pastor Tom will be teaching on keeping our eyes on Jesus so in the midst of spiritual challenges we don’t fall into traps by the enemy.
What happens if God works in an unexpected way in your life? How do you handle that? When Jesus came, He came in an unexpected way. He was so unexpected that even the prophet, John the Baptizer who announced the coming of Jesus, asks Jesus, "Are you the one we've been expecting or should we look for someone else? Listen today as Pastor Paula explores how Jesus comes in unanticipated ways.
As we look at mankind throughout the Bible we see man drifting away from the Lord, and the Lord in his great love and mercy always calling man to repent of their sins and turn to back to Him. True repentance begins with spiritual conviction…I realize I have sinned and it is not right. Maybe you feel like you have drifted away from the Lord and don’t know what to do. Today Pastor Tom will be teaching on turning from our sin and turning towards God and how that frees us from the shackles of sin to live a new life in Christ.
Many of us are moved and inspired by historical accounts of God's Spirit radically moving and changing hundreds of lives. On the other hand, the thought of sharing the Gospel with an individual, let alone a city, can leave us rather uncomfortable. In today's message, Pastor Tom teaches us how our sharing the Gospel with others goes hand in hand with God's preparation. In our study, we learn how God both prepares the hearts of men and plants the words within those who share His Gospel.
Many people find it rather easy to think of God as a maniacal being that takes pleasure in the death of those who do wrong. However, there are passages in the Bible that specifically say, God doesn't take pleasure in the death of the wicked! In today's message, Pastor Tom a moment to reflect on the merciful and long suffering nature of God in our series, Trials of Prophets. In our study, we learn that rather than allowing the wicked to perish, our loving God raises up voices to seek out the lost.
As many of us have experienced, our lives can be overwhelmingly full of challenges and trials of many sizes. But what if some of those challenges were of a divine nature in order for us to turn our attention? In today's message, Pastor Tom teaches us how The Lord often uses distress and tribulation in our lives to turn our attention towards Him. In our study, we learn that when all our earthly options seem to be of no avail, our Father in Heaven will never let us down.
Many of us find it hard to believe that God is constantly pursuing us even when we're flat out rejecting Him. Whether we're in a dry season or we've decided to serve our flesh, our God is steadfast in His pursuit of His own. In today's message, Pastor Tom asks us to recall the times that we've recognized the pursuit of The Lord in our lives. In our study, we gain a better understanding of just what it looks like when The Lord pursues us, no matter what decisions we might be making in our lives.
In Paul's letter to the Romans we read that we're to “be transformed by the renewing of our mind.” Just as with any form of sanctification in our lives, living a life that conforms to God's Kingdom takes time and practice. But what are some of the practical ways in which we can do this? In today's message, Pastor Tom teaches us the role of The Spirit that seeks to sanctify us on a daily basis. In our study, we learn that through worship, prayer, and taking in The Word, we're sure to aid The Spirit in sanctifying our lives.
Perhaps one of the most common questions we hear from non believers is “why did God create us with the ability to sin?” As many of us have probably answered, God created man with choice, because love demands choice. In today's message, Paula reflects on the merciful and gracious nature of God who gives us free will. In our study, we learn that rather than being created as mindless drones, our God gave us the ultimate free will to choose who we serve. Will we choose to serve ourselves? Or God?
The abundance of God's grace is so plentiful that if we're careful enough we can recognize it in almost every page of Scripture. Perhaps one of the most potent displays of God's grace is found within the history of God's chosen people, Israel. In today's message, Pastor Tom takes a moment to reflect on God's grace as we continue our series on the trials of the prophets. In our study, we recognize God's grace towards Israel even after their constant rejection of God and idolatry. Our God, is indeed full of mercy and grace!
In Paul's letter to the Romans we read that we're to “be transformed by the renewing of our mind.” Just as with any form of sanctification in our lives, living a life that conforms to God's Kingdom takes time and practice. But what are some of the practical ways in which we can do this? In today's message, Pastor Tom teaches us the role of The Spirit that seeks to sanctify us on a daily basis. In our study, we learn that through worship, prayer, and taking in The Word, we're sure to aid The Spirit in sanctifying our lives.
When we become born again believers in Christ God sends His Spirit to dwell within each and every one of us. As we go about our lives from this point forward, it's crucial that we look to the guidance of The Spirit. But how do we know the what when and how of what this looks like? In today's message, Pastor Tom reflects on the outpouring of God's Spirit on the early Church during the feast of Pentecost. In our study, we learn that while we might not always know exactly when or how, we can always trust in God's Spirit.
Whether we're fresh out of the baptismal or we've been walking with The Lord for years, each of us can waiver from time to time. From losing focus in ministry or following our own lead rather than The Spirit, it's important that we self reflect regularly. In today's message, Pastor Tom encourages us to ask ourselves where it is that we think The Lord is leading us. In our study, we learn how God often intervenes in our lives to better guide us and set us back on the right path. Has God been intervening in your life lately?
The idea of an all powerful, all knowing, and all present God can be rather intimidating if we take the time to think about it. In fact, what's to keep us from thinking that God would want to have anything to do with us if He knows the beginning from the end? In today's message, Pastor Tom reflects on the intimate nature of God who seeks to grow in relationship with us. In our study, we learn that just because God knows everything about us, doesn't mean He won't engage with us through inquiry or otherwise.
Whenever we take on new roles or tasks in and outside of the Church, we can easily become distracted and lose focus. Whether it's a new obstacle to overcome, a different path of ministry, or even a new career, we sometimes put Jesus on hold. In today's message, Pastor Tom reminds us of the importance of always putting Christ as the forefront of each venture in life. In our study we learn that more often than not, when we put Christ on the back burner, we're sure to go astray from God's purpose.
As many of us have experienced, spiritual victories can be rather exhausting and wear us out more often than not. Not only is the journey leading up to the victory exhausting, but we're also under constant attack by our enemy both before and after. In today's message, Pastor Tom reminds us to lean on The Lord for our strength and courage as we face life's trials. In our study, we learn that by yoking ourselves to Jesus, we're sure to experience victory after victory at the pace God intends for us.
Whenever a predator seeks out to target its next victim it typically goes for an isolated or even damaged prey. When it comes to spiritual warfare, so too does our enemy seek to go after those that have been separated from the Body of Christ. In today's message, Pastor Tom teaches us the danger of isolation and distance from both the Word of God, and His people. In our study, we learn how our greatest defense against such attacks come from none other than fellowship and taking in The Word.
Whether we've followed The Lord for years or our faith is recent, many of us are familiar with the term “backslide.” While some of us might take backsliding for granted, it can also be one of our greatest fears as Christians. In today's message, Pastor Tom reflects on this tragic event that can take place in our lives in many shapes and forms. In our study, we learn that one of the biggest dangers of backsliding is just how subtle and slow the process of drifting away from The Lord can be.
Forgiveness can be one of the most challenging obstacles to our growth as disciples of Christ. Whether we're stubborn or we've suffered a great offense, unforgiveness can be likened to a slow and deadly poison. In today's message, Pastor Tom reminds us that it's because we've been forgiven the debt of our sins, we too must forgive others. In our study, we learn that by the power of God's Spirit within us, we have no reason not to be able to forgive others. Is there someone in your life who you've yet to forgive?
When looking at the suffering and sorrows of the world, it can be hard to believe that The Kingdom of God is upon us at times. While God's people have done amazing things since the birth of The Church, God's Kingdom has yet to be fully established. In today's message, Pastor Tom helps us to better understand the meaning of God's Kingdom being both now, but not yet. In our study, we gain a better understanding of our role as disciples and how we play an important role in the here and now.
Each of us are prone to go through seasons where our Bibles collect more dust than they do highlights or underlines. More often than not, a feeling of conviction or condemnation is typically right around the corner. However, in today's message, Pastor Tom encourages us by reminding us of the patient and gracious heart of God. In our study, we learn that by coming to God in petition and prayer, He'll gladly renew our thirst for His Word. Has your thirst for God's Word been compromised?
Perhaps one of the most common hinderances of advancement in our walk as disciples is our own doubt. This of course is one of our adversary's favorite weapons to use against us and has been since the Garden of Eden. In today's message, Pastor Tom teaches us some powerful ways in which we can better guard our hearts from giving in to doubt. In our study, we learn that through prayer and taking in God's Word, we can better tackle some of life's biggest obstacles!
As Pastor Tom continues his teaching series on Abrahams intercession prayer on behalf of Sodom, he'll be exhorting us to have the same kind of merciful heart as Abraham and the Lord. God's desire is that none should perish and that all would come to eternal life. The Bible say's that God is long-suffering and full of mercy and truth! God doesn't even delight in the death of the wicked. You and I don't deserve God's mercy, but He gives it to us in the form of His Son Jesus.
As parents, we are charged just as Abraham was charged, to pass on the faith to our children. Abraham was promised a seed that would bring salvation to the world. So Abraham was diligent to pass down to his children the importance of having faith in the one true God. If you have children, plan to have children, or perhaps you have children within your sphere of influence, God desires you not only to minister to them the truth of the gospel, but to live it out before them.
Have you lost your focus on the big picture? As Pastor Tom continues his teaching on the importance of believers having a transformed heart that God can use, he'll be challenging us to not become entangled in the affairs of this world. Some of the things that may be taking our attention away from God's eternal purposes may not necessarily be bad things, but they may still draw our attention away if our priorities aren't in order. As Christians, we need to continuously stay focused on the eternal over the temporal.
When Satan can't get us to believe the lie that God doesn't exist, he tries to get us to believe that God is distant and not intimately involved with us. Today, Pastor Tom will be reminding us that God loves us unconditionally and desires to be engaged in our day to day activities. It's not a matter of God's desire to be involved in our life and decision making, it's a matter of us letting Him be a part of it. He is the Potter, we are the clay, He wants to mold us and conform us more into His image.
When it comes to following Christ we have to be all in, there is no half way. We might be able to fool other people for a while but we can never fool God. He knows exactly what holds our hearts and attention. So, if Christ isn’t top priority in our lives, we need to stop and confess it and make Him first! And as Pastor Tom reminds us today it’s never to late to find repentance at the feet of Christ. When we’re faithful to confess, He is faithful to forgive. Don’t let things distract you from what’s most important.
How many of us, if we’re honest, want to be part of something great? As believers we can be certain that God has a great plan for our lives. But just like any other relationship that we care about we must take care of our relationship with Christ. And Pastor Tom will remind us that when we’re faithful to God, the more we’ll know Him and the plans that He has for us. Don’t make excuses and allow distractions to keep us from the great things the Lord has for us.
We’re all sinners, but how we respond to our sin is what matters. Today Pastor Tom makes a great point in his message that experiencing forgiveness and repentance isn’t only for our benefit, but for others as we faithfully share our testimony. When we’re healed of our sin then we’re better equipped to help others. But if we’re caught up in it, then we can’t be as effective for Christ and His plan for our lives. God desires for us to die to sin and live for righteousness.
We’re all sinners, but how we respond to our sin is what matters. Today Pastor Tom makes a great point in his message that experiencing forgiveness and repentance isn’t only for our benefit, but for others as we faithfully share our testimony. When we’re healed of our sin then we’re better equipped to help others. But if we’re caught up in it, then we can’t be as effective for Christ and His plan for our lives. God desires for us to die to sin and live for righteousness.
When we’re called to wait on the Lord it can pull us closer to Him and keep us from being so distracted with the things of this world. As Pastor Tom will teach us today, waiting can give us a new perspective on what’s truly important. This can build our faith and relationship with Christ if we put our trust in Him. So, if you’re waiting on the Lord, ask Him what He’s trying to teach you and how He wants to use it for His glory. Everyday is an opportunity to live for Him and share His love with others.
The story of Lazarus is an example of our ways are not God’s ways, but we need to trust in the Lord’s timing. Often times when we’re called to wait it turns out differently then what we would’ve expected. But if we take the time to look back we can see that God’s plan was a good plan. Just like in the story of Lazarus, as Pastor Tom reminds us today, the ultimate purpose in waiting was to see God’s glory and bring people to Christ. So, if you’re waiting on the Lord, look for His glory and trust His plan.
Through the parable today Pastor Paula reminds us that God desires all to come to Him, but will not force anyone to have a relationship with Him. We all have the freedom to make the choice to follow Christ or not. And if we choose to follow Christ there will be a great celebration. God will always receive us when we choose to turn from our sin and follow Him. Jesus took all our sin upon Himself, therefore we don’t have to carry that shame anymore. We are forgiven through the blood of Christ.
The Pharisees had good intentions but they lost focus on what was truly important. They became more focused on obeying the law instead of obeying God. And if others failed to keep the law there was little room for forgiveness. But, as Pastor Paula will teach us today, our heavenly Father does not with hold forgiveness from us when we ask. If you’ve been caught up in sin and are at the end of yourself all you have to do is turn to God and He is there with open arms waiting for your return.
When we’re living in disobedience it not only effects us, but everyone around us. Just like Jonah needed to be rescued from his disobedience, we also need to be rescued. God sent a giant fish to save Jonah and for us He sent His Son. Without God’s intervention in our lives we’re hopeless and dead in our sin. It’s only by the amazing grace and mercy of God that we’ve been saved from our foolish ways. And no matter how you feel it’s never to late for God to save you. He will never give up on you!
Over and over again throughout the Bible we hear about God’s mercy and His righteous judgement. God is a god of mercy, but if we refuse His mercy we’ll be judged as we stand before Him. We may try to turn away from God, but there’s no place we can go where He’s not. Jonah learned this lesson in today’s message from Pastor Tom. Like Jonah we sometimes get caught in the middle of a storm, but God uses those storms to redirect us back to Himself and the plan He has for us.
How often do we feel weak when God asks us to do something? We may even question if God is really speaking to us or doubt our ability. But, Pastor Tom will remind us today that when the Lord calls us to do something He doesn’t want us to do it in our own strength. He wants us to depend on Him. So, stop looking to your own abilities and instead turn your eyes to the Lord. Go to Him and allow Him to fill you with strength through His word. And remember that in your weakness, God is strong.
In today’s message we’ll learn from Pastor Tom that the people of Israel had been oppressed for seven long years until they finally cried out to God for help. Sometimes difficult circumstances are just what we need to make our way back to Christ. When life is going well it’s easy to forget to keep our eyes fixed on the Lord. This can become a downward spiral into sin. So, if you find yourself feeling weak and hopeless, don’t hesitate to call upon the Lord. He is always there even when you don’t acknowledge Him.
Many people wrongly put their trust in things that will not last. They put their hope in their children, their careers, or their paycheck. However, at the end of all things, the only One Who will never fail us is Jesus. In today’s message, Pastor Tom uses Joseph’s story to encourage us to put our hope in the Lord and nothing else. Joseph trusted God even when his world fell apart after being sold as a slave in Egypt and then later when he was falsely accused and put in prison. Joseph did not trust God in vain, for the Lord was proven faithful.
As Pastor Tom continues our series studying the life of Joseph, we will hear about when Joseph is miraculously and serendipitously promoted from prison manager to second in command over all of Egypt. We will learn through Joseph’s perseverance and ultimate triumph that the Lord is sovereign in our lives and has a good plan and purpose for us. God will even use seasons of suffering and trial to prepare us for what lies ahead. When we do not grow weary in doing good like Joseph, the Lord will be reward our faithfulness.
We will, in this life, have many people cross our paths. These people may stay for a while, or may only linger for a brief moment. These people, though, do not come into our lives for no reason! God has a plan for each person on earth, and as Pastor Tom reminds us today, we may have something to do with that plan! We have the opportunity to bless the people He has brought into our lives. We can be Jesus’s hands and feet, and share with everyone His unending love and powerful grace!
Trials will arise in our lives. This is an inevitable fact that no one can escape. When these difficult times arise, we can find our focus narrowed to what is happening and how to survive it. In today’s message, Pastor Tom wants to encourage us to reach out to Jesus in those difficulties! There is a much bigger picture that is still happening, though our world seems to be floundering. Jesus can give us strength to endure, and broaden our perspective to see the good that He is working in our situation!
Sin is a part of the experience we will have in this broken world. No matter how hard we try to achieve God’s standard of perfection, we will fail! The penalty of sin is death, but we don’t have to pay that penalty! We have the incredible privilege of taking our sins and giving them to Jesus, who took on all our sins and died on the cross in our place! Pastor Tom today reminds us that when we accept Jesus’s free gift of Salvation, we are no longer separated from God, nor are we accountable for our sin!
Today’s message is meant to encourage us when we reach a place of difficulty in life! Pastor Tom shares with us the story of Joseph and the trials that he encountered during his time in Egypt, even though he was doing his best to follow God in every way. Joseph chose to remain close to God, though his circumstances would encourage him to do the opposite. When we too face chaos in our lives, we can draw strength from our relationship with God! God promises to be with us and guide us always!
In the midst of a troubled time, it’s difficult to see beyond our own suffering. Pastor Tom reassures us in today’s message that one day we will be beyond that trial! God is always working in our lives, even when we are unaware of His presence. Our time of difficulty will be but a moment in the grand scheme of God’s path for our lives, and He will take that which is evil and turn it around for good! His plan for us is meant to bless us and others, and will have a great impact beyond what we can imagine!
When we encounter trial after trial in life, we can lose our perspective. We don’t seem to have the support or even the presence of God in our lives, and we find ourselves asking if God is really there, and if He is going to help us. Pastor Tom shares with us today that those questions aren’t unusual. However, he also reminds us that God promises to be with us all the time, no matter the circumstance. We can trust that God is working our situation out for a great purpose, to bless us and others!
Sin is part of this fallen world we live in. Every sin, great or small, is one more thing that separates us from our holy and perfect Creator. No matter how good we try to be, we will fall short of the standard of God. God doesn’t want this distance, however. As Pastor Tom reminds us in today’s message, God sent His Son to earth to die for our sins, so that we could have the chance to be with Him in Heaven! Because of Jesus, we can accept this free gift of grace, and no longer be guilty of our sins!
At times in our spiritual walk with Jesus, we can feel inadequate the task that has been asked of us. Especially in those times where we mess up, we can begin to tell ourselves that we were a mistake, that God shouldn’t have picked us even on our best days! Pastor Tom today shares with us that this is a lie! As evidenced through the lives of Biblical characters, God can use even the messiest people to do great things! If He can use them, He can use anyone and everyone to do His work in the world!
Often when we come to the end of our rope, we try to find another solution in our own power. We look to ourselves to fix the problem, many times making everything worse! Pastor Tom has a different option for us today. At those moments when we feel can’t go on, we can turn to God! God has promised to love us and comfort us no matter the circumstance, and has and always will be right by our side. We don’t need to take on the burdens of our life alone; we just need to cling to God!
No matter where we go, God is faithful. No matter how terribly we mess up, God is faithful. God stands by us every moment, every day, in every place. Pastor Tom today asks us to look back on our lives and seek out those places where we know God was faithful to us. Those moments might be times of stress, or times of joy. We will find Him in the lowest points of our lives, and in the highest. No matter what, God has always shown up, though we may not see it at the time. Our God is with us always!
We may already be aware that God is in control of our lives, but have we really stopped to think about what that really means for us? Pastor Tom today shares with us an encouraging message on what a life of trusting God can be! When we allow God to take control of our journey, we suddenly don’t have to worry about where we’ll go or what will happen to us. That kind of faith can bring with it a great amount of relief from stress! It won’t be easy to give up the control, but how freeing it will be when we do!
Today’s message contains some great news for every person who has messed up – God still wants to work in our lives! Pastor Tom shares with us the story of Jacob, the Biblical character who messed up over and over again, yet who God continued to bless and use in a mighty way. Jacob’s failures did not deter God from fulfilling the promises He had made. God has promised great things to us as well, and no matter the failure, God plans to continue loving us and working through us in mighty ways!
In today’s message, Pastor Tom is frank with us about the obstacles that will arise in our faith journey. His intention isn’t to leave us feeling defeated, however! The Bible tells us that though the path we walk as Christians will be difficult, we are not alone! We know that Jesus is walking right beside us, encouraging us, comforting us, and sharing in every triumph and trial. He will never, ever leave us, no matter how hard it gets! We can hold tightly to that promise as we take another step forward!
God promises to wisely guide us in every moment of life. This includes the times when we need it the most – in the midst of life’s most difficult trials! As fallible human beings, we tend to look at our problems and ourselves at those times, trying to figure out how we can make it all better. Pastor Tom encourages us in today’s message to look up to God instead! God will comfort us, guide us, and give us strength every step of each difficulty, and will not leave us when we come to the other side!
Following Jesus is difficult to do when we are looking down at our own feet. Human nature tends to tell us that keeping an eye on where we are going and creating our own path is the way to live, and will get us to the successful end that we each desire. Pastor Tom, however, has a different perspective for us today! If we, in faith, look up to God instead, He promises to take us on a journey that is greater than we could ever imagine. We don’t have to worry about where we are going if we are looking to God!
God promises to wisely guide us in every moment of life. This includes the times when we need it the most – in the midst of life’s most difficult trials! As fallible human beings, we tend to look at our problems and ourselves at those times, trying to figure out how we can make it all better. Pastor Tom encourages us in today’s message to look up to God instead! God will comfort us, guide us, and give us strength every step of each difficulty, and will not leave us when we come to the other side!
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
There will be spiritual battles during the time of “already but not yet” and God has given us tools to use.
Jesus tells how the kingdom has already come but will also come again. He appears to be speaking in riddles at the time. It is only in hindsight that the disciples understand what He means. We are essentially hanging out at the intersection of heaven and earth.
Jesus quotes the prophecies of Isaiah to demonstrate his mission on earth. This did not match the type of Messiah the people were looking for.
Messiah is predicted, but theologians of the time do not realize that Messiah will come twice. They assume that God will work in a straight forward way and that Messiah will end “this present evil age” and usher in the “age to come.” They also believe that this will be a political reign like David, which influences how they receive Jesus when He comes.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area along with our sister church in Cape Coast Ghana, Africa.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area.
Light of Christ church is a fellowship the Lord has placed on this earth to be a Light to the world (Light is always moving with energy outward) so we can be the Lord’s heart, voice, arms and feet in the our community and world to carry out the Great Commission. Light of Christ is part of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ and is reaching people in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin area along with our sister church in Cape Coast Ghana, Africa.
“Living Life in Light of Eternity. Our sermon text is John 2:12-25. Our series is called Symbolism and Prophecy.
Humility Changes My Heart. Our sermon text is Matthew 18:1-14. Our series is called Love Producing Obedience.