Chats with Chaplain Anthony: Recent Episodes
Anthony Goodwin
Welcome to "Chats with Chaplain Anthony". This is a quick and uplifting message from Chaplain Anthony Goodwin out of Austin, TX. Start your day encouraged and find joy for what lies ahead.
Anthony has a decade of ministry experience and has loved the past year of being a certified chaplain for Corporate Chaplains of America along with the United States Army.
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This moment of prayer between Jesus and his Father are a perfect picture of how transparent we should be in our communication with God. He knows every detail of our lives, let's go to Him with an open heart but ready to say, "; not my will, but yours be done."
Luke 22:42 NIV 42 “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”
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Today is a special day because it is "today". There will never be another March 22, 2024. It's a good time to share God's love with other people. Life has a funny way of bearing us under the mundane. Today's Scripture reminds us that we can be deceived by sin and have our hearts hardened towards God. Fight against this urger with prayer and the faithful exhortation of fellow believers.
Hebrews 3:13 ESV 13 But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin
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Traveling the world makes us feel safe because our passport will get us home. Your citizenship while in a foreign land will be respected and honored when you want to return home. Now imagine if we carried ourselves in life as citizens of heaven, rather than our physical nation. Although we've never seen the gates we can still live and claim identity as one of God's own.
Philippians 3:20- ESV 20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.
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The storms of life can be daunting. But when you look out you might see God isn't as concerned or afraid as you are. That's okay. Take heart. He is strong and with you, even when he's going on His walkabout. Ask God to soften your heart daily. No matter the amount of time spent following Him, there is more to see and more to learn.
Mark 6:48-52 ESV
48 He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. Shortly before dawn he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, 49 but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, 50 because they all saw him and were terrified.
Immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” 51 Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened.
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Hoping against hope can sound impossible but that is the goodness of living a live with Christ within us. You have the ability, promise, and assurance to reach for something higher than yourself. I pray you hope against hope today. Surrender to God's love for you today.
Romans 4:18 ESV 18 In hope he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations, as he had been told, “So shall your offspring be.”
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It's hard to not be anxious these days. However, the Bible already knew this. God spoke through Luke, the physician, to remind us what God thinks of us and along with how he cares for all of His creation. Take a baby step to release your anxiety and trust God with the finer details of your life.
Luke 12:22-26 ESV 22 And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. 23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. 24 Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! 25 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? 26 If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest?
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Today is the day to lift someone else up. Look out for your neighbors and friends. Seek new and creative ways to build them up in their faith, resilience, and trust in the Lord Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV 11Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
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Our faith was not created by an entrepreneur during the Industrial Revolution, a thinker of the Renaissance, or any one person of the Greco-Roman time period. Our faith was built upon the words and works of Old Testament prophets and New Testament apostles; Christ himself is the very cornerstone of those two. Today, you're a part of God's dwelling place. Your faith does not exist in a vacuum.
Ephesians 2:19-21 ESV19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord.
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Jesus foretells difficult trials for those who are his followers. But the foretelling is less about the specific things that will happen and more about the opportunities it will afford those who trust Him. Even in the midst of hard seasons and conversations, are we missing a chance to share Christ? Be bold, confident, and assured that God is with you in those rooms and spaces.
Luke 21:10-15 ESV
10 Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name's sake. 13 This will be your opportunity to bear witness. 14 Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer, 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict.
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Time is one of the most precious assets we are afforded. The more we spend it on ourselves, the more selfishly we see the world and want the world to be. Our desires will shift from us to Him as we spend more time with God in word, prayer, song, and fellowship. Delight in Him today.
Psalms 37:4 ESV
4Delight yourself in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
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What is motivating you today? Why do you perform as well or as poorly as you do? Today, consider every task to be for the Lord. The way you lead your family, the way you order your coffee, the way you love someone; consider it your opportunity to serve Jesus and not man. I hope your level of effort rises to the great purpose that you now have.
Colossians 3:23-24 ESV
23Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, 24knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.
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The little changes you make today can greatly impact your devotional life across a decade. Attempt to take one baby step closer to daily communing with Christ. Allow the word of Christ to dwell in your everyday life. Consider adjusting one piece of media intake into a devotional act with God. It will pay off and bring you closer to the Lord.
Colossians 3:16 ESV
16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
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Abound in thanksgiving every day because of what Christ has done. Walk the journey. Enjoy the sights that he is taking you past. Each moment and day is an opportunity to grow and deepen your spiritual foundation in Christ Jesus. Appreciate the moments ahead of you.
Colossians 2:6-7 ESV
6Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.
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Trials will come, but our faith should speak back. Remaining Godly and hopeful may seem impossible but with God nothing is impossible. Have that in every hard season that God is working on you and through you. Even when I failed to see the trials as a joy, I look back and realize God was still leading me through the trials. Now I can look back on those times with a smile and gratitude.
James 1:2-3 ESV
2Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness
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Everyday is an opportunity to see God work in your life. But the first thing we must do is to abide in Him and His Word. He is always speaking and active. We must slow down and listen for what He is doing among us. Then we will begin to see the fruit he is producing in our life. You are the most able person to reach those nearest to you. But first, focus on abiding.
John 15:4-5 ESV
4Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
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If God is worth pursuing in scary moments, let's pursue Him even in mundane moments. Learn to trust God during the quiet times, and we'll be more confident and quicker to trust Him in the harder moments of life. I promise that God listens and cares even when the rest of the world might not.
Psalms 119:76 ESV
76 Let your steadfast love comfort me
according to your promise to your servant.
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Our life is full of hustle and bustle. We strive to do, perform, and achieve. But the Lord sustains. A night's rest is more than the body catching up with all of the doing the day before. Sleep is more than just a preparation for a day to come. The waking and sleeping are sustained by God himself. In 2023, let's learn to thank God for sustaining us another day. It is another opportunity to praise the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Romans 3:5 ESV
5 I lay down and slept;
I woke again, for the Lord sustained me.
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As of recent, my life has encountered real loss and heartache. But even in the face of these difficult seasons, I have an anchored hope because of what I believe Jesus has done for me. This episode's topic was to share the hope I have in Christ. The Gospel is present and ready for you to accept and live in and under.
Romans 10:9-10 ESV
9because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.
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A temporary sacrifice is worth enduring when you know what the end goal is. Consider this for your own personal and professional goals but don't forget the goodness of God you're going to experience in eternity. These minor setbacks today are palatable because you know of the future glory you will see.
Romans 8:18 ESV
18For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.
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Many of our dreams might not be accomplished in our day and that's okay. Have you ever thought about how a passion of yours could be achieved by the next generation? Our planning often stops at 18 minutes or 18 months. We don't often think about the long game but Godes. Consider how this lesson might apply to your life.
1 Kings 8:16-20 ESV
16 ‘Since the day that I brought my people Israel out of Egypt, I chose no city out of all the tribes of Israel in which to build a house, that my name might be there. But I chose David to be over my people Israel.’ 17 Now it was in the heart of David my father to build a house for the name of the Lord, the God of Israel. 18 But the Lord said to David my father, ‘Whereas it was in your heart to build a house for my name, you did well that it was in your heart. 19 Nevertheless, you shall not build the house, but your son who shall be born to you shall build the house for my name.’ 20 Now the Lord has fulfilled his promise that he made. For I have risen in the place of David my father, and sit on the throne of Israel, as the Lord promised, and I have built the house for the name of the Lord, the God of Israel
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Our God is able to empathize with our strongest temptations. This is because he suffered under temptation without ever giving in. For this reason, he knows the greatest strengths of temptation while we give in at lower weights of its pressure. Trust in his strength and ability to help you through your toughest times.
Hebrews 2:18 ESV
18For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
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We all want to be the main character in the story. There is something exciting about getting to be the one (or seventy-two) that God has chosen for a task. It's about us and it's about glory. And if we don't see our life going the same route as the hero-figure; we will feel as though we are not doing God's will. I offer you the idea that God could still be using you as a person of peace. Don't neglect the grace that God extends for us to be one of the seventy-two or one of the places that makes room for them. You're still being used for God's glory, my friend. Trust Him.
Luke 10:1-2, 6 ESV
1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to go. 2 And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.
6 And if a son of peace is there, your peace will rest upon him. But if not, it will return to you.
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You never know how a small act will be taken into God's plan for someone's life. I encourage you to be faithful and trust God's work in the details. Commit your plans to Him and you'll be free to love people as God has equipped you to love them.
Proverbs 16:3-4 ESV
3Commit your work to the Lord,
and your plans will be established.
4The Lord has made everything for its purpose,
even the wicked for the day of trouble.
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It's good to memorize key verses and tenets of the faith but your mastery of God's love ought to be your first ambition. Giving yourself to walk as Christ walked will lead you to know the Truth and have a solid foundation of faith. Commit to loving God first and the intellect and wisdom will follow as gifts from God.
Matthew 22:37-39 ESV
37And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38This is the great and first commandment. 39And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
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For me, I love the very center of a cinnamon roll. It's the sweetest, gooiest, and best part of the delicious treat. But more than that bite, I love my wife and if she wants that piece then I'll give it to her. This is a small picture of what God's love can look like for us. He puts in all of the work and we get the final piece and get to lift our arms in victory after the race. Love God, love your spouse, share your cinnamon roll.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 ESV
4Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
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The New Year has kicked off, and you have already failed your resolution. It's okay. It's time to get back up and pursue the more fantastic future ahead than dwell on the minor setback behind you. Remember that God is holding your hand through this next season.
Join this Bible in a Year plan:
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Psalms 37:23-24 ESV
23The steps of a man are established by the Lord,
when he delights in his way;
24though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong,
for the Lord upholds his hand.
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Evangelism can be easy to approach if you have the correct perspective. It does not have to be a big show with tears every time you share. Instead, see it as an opportunity to share with a friend. Do not force or expect a decision. Simply trust God, share, and have a conversation.
Psalms 96:2 ESV
2Sing to the Lord, bless his name;
tell of his salvation from day to day.
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Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you have a blessed day, hug a loved one, and enjoy your favorite dish. Don't forget to give thanks to God on this day. He has blessed you, is blessing you, and will continue to bless you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV
16Rejoice always, 17pray continually, 18give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
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If you have ever encountered a difficult conversation around your faith, take heart. Your knowledge and imagination cannot see or explain every facet of what God is doing. Your unknown moments are the perfect place for your faith to activate. Allow it to do so with confidence and then be okay to look up things you are unsure of. There are many areas in life where our knowledge can grow while another area will simply require faith to take the lead.
1 Corinthians 2:9-10 ESV
9But, as it is written,
“What no eye has seen, nor ear heard,
nor the heart of man imagined,
what God has prepared for those who love him”—
10these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.
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Every season has a reason (not just Christmas). But are you giving yourself permission to feel the joy, the pain, the loss, the hope? I would challenge you to see how Jesus is still walking with you up the hills and through the valleys.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 ESV
1For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
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As soon as Judas walks out of the room, Jesus drops one of the most important lines for our Christian faith. Imagine the air in that room. How wonderful would it have been to see that moment in history. Today, we reread these words and remind ourselves the importance of living that very simple truth..love one another. It's by that love that the world will know that we are His disciples.
John 13:34-35 ESV
34A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
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That's a big promise, especially during Pumpkin Spice Latte season. Think about how many life changes you make in order to find satisfaction, peace, joy, and fulfillment. Now remember that you have a relationship with the creator of the universe. Your ultimate fulfillment can come straight from Him and through Him. Allow yourself to dwell and meditate on how God's love can quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger. Allow God to do this and you'll reach a new level of peace that any new purchase could never attain.
John 6:35 ESV
35Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believesin me will never be thirsty.
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Are you striving on a daily basis for food, love, acceptance, or purpose? This piece of the Psalms appears to have a stark challenge to the way that you and I live life. God created nature to exist and be not strive and stress. I challenge you to lay down your stress today in order to grab hold of God's provision in your life.
Psalms 104:21 ESV
21The young lions roar for their prey,
seeking their food from God.
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This one is a little different. My family would appreciate your prayers as we walk together through this tough time.
"Highlands (Song of Ascent)" - Hillsong United
Oh, how high would I climb mountains
If the mountains were where You hide
Oh, how far I'd scale the valleys
If You graced the other side
And, oh, how long have I chased rivers
From lowly seas to where they rise
Against the rush of grace descending
From the source of its supply
'Cause in the highlands and the heartache
You're neither more or less inclined
I would search and stop at nothing
You're just not that hard to find
I will praise on the mountain
And I will praise you when the mountain is in my way
You're the summit where my feet are
So I will praise You in the valleys all the same
No less God within the shadows
No less faithful when the night leads me astray
'Cause You're the heaven where my heart is
In the highlands and the heartache all the same
Oh
Oh, how far beneath Your glory
Does Your kindness extend apart
From where Your feet rest on the sunrise
To where You sweep the sinner's past
And oh, how fast would You come running?
If just to shadow me through the night
Trace my steps through all my failure
And walk me out the other side
For who could dare ascend that mountain
That valleyed hill called Calvary
But for the one I call Good Shepherd
Who like a lamb was slain for me
Oh, I will praise You on the mountain (you sing)
I will praise You when the mountains in my way
You're the summit where my feet are
So I will praise you in the valley all the same
No less God within the shadows
And no less faithful when the night leads me astray
'Cause You're the heaven where my heart is
In the highlands and the heartache all the same
Oh, oh, oh (sing it out)
Whatever I walk through
Wherever I am
Your name can move mountains
Wherever I stand
And if ever I walk through
The valley of death
I'll sing through the shadows
My song of ascent
Whatever I walk through
Wherever I am
Your Name can move mountains
Wherever I stand
And if ever I walk through
The valley of death
I'll sing through the shadows
My song of ascent
My song of ascent
Oh, oh, oh (and sing it out)
My song of ascent
Oh, oh, oh
From the gravest of all valley
Come the pasture we call grace
A mighty river flowing upward
From a deep but empty grave
So I will praise You on the mountain
I will praise You when the mountains in my way
You're the summit where my feet are (yes You are)
I will praise you in the valley all the same
No less God within the shadows
No less faithful when the night leads me astray
You're the heaven where my heart is
In the highlands and the heartache all the same
Writers: Benjamin William Hastings and Joel Houston
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Today's podcast should give you a sense of peace and confidence. As a Christian, you did not earn your salvation. If you're unsure of how to attain salvation then I hope this message also gives you some insight into how you can be saved by God and not yourself. And lastly, the good news is that God has created you on purpose and with a purpose.
Ephesians 2:8-10 ESV
8For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
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God is not a hermit with an inapproachable celebrity mentality. He walked as we walked and felt every bit of temptation that life could throw at him. Now his position by the Father gives us access to his mercy, grace, and relationship. Jesus can be trusted because of His leadership to our lives.
Hebrews 4:14-16 ESV
14Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
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Our lives are full of decisions. If we make the right choice when people are living with ulterior motives. But the right thing done in private speaks to our character and integrity. Live for God in public, at church, is easy and assumed. Living for God and honoring Him in private reveals the state of your heart and trust that you truly do have in him. As you do the right things, even when people are not looking, then no one will have a credible bad thing to say about you.
Psalm 119:1-3 ESV
1Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of the Lord!
2Blessed are those who keep his testimonies,
who seek him with their whole heart,
3who also do no wrong,
but walk in his ways!
Read full chapter
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As humans, we are naturally wired to find community. The problem is that when we allow community to stumble upon us it will only affect us to a certain degree intentional community allows us to love and serve others as others are seeking to reciprocate God’s love. Seek these types of fellowships and you will be better equipped to take on life’s difficulties.
Acts 2:42 ESV
2“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.”
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The idea of being pruned in any sense is never a fun thought. But the value and benefit and pruning is for the greater good of yourself and others around you. Every time someone visits the gym or runs the track, they are pushing their body to a limit to see it come back stronger. The same thing can be thought about our spiritual development while following and trusting Jesus. Have hope in the pruning process, check-in on someone else's pruning process, and reflect on what fruit that you yourself are producing.
John 15:1-2 ESV
1“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.s.
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If God has rescued you then you are on the path of growth development. Any new believer is learning new things and implementing new spiritual practices that were not an original instinct. But this path toward's Christ's righteousness is both an already present reality and a journey to make it our own. Philippians 3 reminds us to strive but to do so humbly in order to honor God not ourselves.
Philippians 3:12-14 ESV
12Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
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Loving and honoring people is not so complicated. It just requires us to set aside our desire to be served and the result is others are valued. When we are looking into the interests of others rather than our own, this is when true love and service begin. Seek to glorify Him by serving others.
1 Corinthians 10:23, 31 ESV
23“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.
31So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
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There are a number of different things that we can do to better improve ourselves and those around us. The great thing we could do is live up to the greatest commandment that Jesus speaks of in Matthew 22. Give yourself permission to grow in this area of your life today. It will bless you and others if you hold to them.
Matthew 22:35-40 ESV
35And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to test him. 36“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” 37And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38This is the great and first commandment. 39And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. 40On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.”
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Philippians 4:13 is a verse that is often taken to mean that you can achieve your American Dream through God. However, the core of the verse speaks more to who God is in our abundance and our need. God's strength and sustenance for us is greater than our status or success. Learning to turn, follow, and trust Him in every season of life is key to achieving peace in Him.
Philippians 4:10-13 ESV
10I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
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When I say this, I don't mean to find yourself a follower. I mean for you to look for the person that is being overlooked and forgotten about. Remind them that they are still loved and seen by God. None of us feels like we are the center of God's world when He's constantly doing so many things...but even Jesus wasn't distracted by the crowd. He still saw and valued Levi. Look for your Levi, make an impact in someone's day.
Mark 2:13-14 ESV
13He went out again beside the sea, and all the crowd was coming to him, and he was teaching them. 14And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him.
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At times, we get blinded by our devotion to Christ because we prop up our standards of devotion rather than our spiritual fruit. As Christians, we get known for our ability to downcast the interest and entertainment of others in a way to highlight our devotion to God. But the Bible reminds us that our love for one another is how the world will know us, not our avoidance and demonizing of lifestyle differences. Seek to honor God without puffing yourself up for your own self-righteous attitude.
Colossians 2:20-23 ESV
20 If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— 21 “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” 22 (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? 23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.
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Sometimes we forget that we are simply children seeking to imitate the example of our Father. It's amazing when God gives examples in our life to remind us of the bigger picture of what He's doing in our lives. Look out for the daily lessons that He is teaching you and always remember to imitate His love to those that are around you.
Ephesians 5:1-2 ESV
1Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
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The beauty of life is the many dynamics of those around us. No one has the same exact story but all of us have something to learn from a friend, neighbor, or family member. Allow yourself to get outside of yourself and your reality in order to see someone experiencing and living life differently than yourself. This practice will help you grow closer together and grow closer with God.
Acts 2:42 ESV
42And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers
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In this day, it feels easy to post anything that will give someone a reason to be offended by you. But the Gospel preacher, Paul, reminds us of a more important way to live. It's not about us being right or our advantage. It's about people being in your life so that you might be able to share the love of God with them.
1 Corinthians 10:31-33, 11:1 ESV
31So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 32Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, 33just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.
1 Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.
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When life knocks you back, someone is there to back you up. The moments of darkness are not completely black because there is a light with you. Every time you feel like you have been pushed far enough, remember who is with you at all times. Your story isn't over it's in process.
Micah 7:8 ESV
Rejoice not over me, O my enemy;
when I fall, I shall rise;
when I sit in darkness,
the Lord will be a light to me.
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Being a good person is a hard thing to define. Many will see front-line workers, superheroes, and saints as the only "good" people on earth. But these images of good and selflessness are often only what we see in the public view. Being a good person requires a 24/7 devotion to virtuous ethics and acts. In order to be the same good person in public and in private requires devotion and practice to see it become second nature. For me, I believe we best find this in Jesus. Don't beat yourself up because you messed up. Count it as a lesson to learn from and grow. Give yourself the grace to learn and train yourself to continue to do good.
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 ESV
24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. 25 Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. 26 So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. 27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
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This isn't a masquerade but we are trying to portray someone else when living this life as a Christ-follower. A life that exhibits the virtues and actions in Romans 12 will help other people to see past who we are and onto someone else. This is the hope as Christians so that we can share who Jesus is with people. But even if you don't believe in Him, you cannot deny these acts of service and love because of what they are.
Matthew 11:28-30 ESV
28Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
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This isn't a masquerade but we are trying to portray someone else when living this life as a Christ-follower. A life that exhibits the virtues and actions in Romans 12 will help other people to see past who we are and onto someone else. This is the hope as Christians so that we can share who Jesus is with people. But even if you don't believe in Him, you cannot deny these acts of service and love because of what they are.
Romans 12:9-13 ESV
9Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. 10Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. 11Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 13Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
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Today, I just felt like checking in on you. Every now and then we need to be reminded that the things we feel are okay. Your story isn't over. Please don't give up on the bigger picture. Feel free to make adjustments and pivots but don't walk away. People love you and care about you. If you need someone to talk with, I'm always here.
No particular verse was discussed today but this is one of my favorites that does deal with this sort of encouragement.
Romans 8:28 ESV
28And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
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The starting lines are full of excited partakers. But the finish line is not as populated. Not enough people have the patience or dedication to see a commitment through. Your life has no doubt been full of new and exciting seasons. The end of a thing comes with a much more gratifying and satisfying feeling because you walked through the entire process to the end. Hang in and hang on, you've got this.
Ecclesiastes 7:8 ESV
8Better is the end of a thing than its beginning,
and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.
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We are striving for money, power, and success. It's in every commercial and advertisement across the different media platforms. But the greatest way to live a blessed life is to exhibit the fruit of the Spirit in your everyday. Study these fruits and God will begin to ripen them in your life. Intentionally follow Him today. You got this.
Galatians 5:22-23 ESV
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
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There is a time and a season for just about everything. I'm sure you have experienced a good amount of transition and change in your life. The new outfit once was excited but now you're ready to throw it out. Your old job once had that fresh and exciting energy. Now you've lost a loved one and don't know how you should feel or live going forward. Make space to mourn. Feel the emotion of loss and grief. Take the time to listen and learn during those moments. Then you'll experience growth as you move forward from that heartache.
Ecclesiastes 3:3 ESV
4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
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The world is full of work and hustle. Every advertisement is encouraging you on how you can do more with less time, less effort, and for less money. But we fill our cups to the top without prioritizing some of the most important things. Rest and recovery are a huge part of life that we try to push off for the very end. What if you thought of your rest as a foundational part of your growth? Give yourself the permission and allowance to rest on a regular basis.
Genesis 2:1-3 ESV
1 Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. 2And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done. 3So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation.
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The currency of worry only buys heartache. Your life is one big process that you can either worry and stress over or you can let go and let God work. Everything is playing a role in forming the person that you are going to become. Seek the opportunity to value and get the most out of each day in order to let go of some stress.
Philippians 4:6 ESV
6do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
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Is there a limit on your love? If you require some measure of performance before you can show or serve with love then stop and reflect on what Christ's love has done in your own life. If we are seeking to imitate His life on this earth, then we'll need the help of the Holy Spirit to love an enemy and serve a counterpart in such a way that does not glorify ourselves. This is a hard and challenging task but it is not impossible. Higher your love limit by lowering your expectation of return.
Romans 5:6-8 ESV
6For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— 8but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
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This lesson from Luke 2 is an interesting moment. We see Jesus being an astonishing and talented student while still in his youth. Achieving this type of educational intrigue at the age of 12 is amazing but not the goal I'm asking you to seek for yourself or your children. Instead, take an honest look and assessment as to how earnestly you're seeking wisdom and insight into your faith. Be humble and seek God. I'm praying for you.
Luke 2:42-49 ESV
42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom. 43 And when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, 44 but supposing him to be in the group they went a day's journey, but then they began to search for him among their relatives and acquaintances, 45 and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, searching for him. 46 After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48 And when his parents saw him, they were astonished. And his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been searching for you in great distress.” 49 And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?”
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Do not despise your upbringing or experience with God. Sharing Christ with others is not about you but it's about HIM. Don't see results but simply seek to honor Jesus by being faithful with where you are and what you have. God can use any of it for His glory.
Acts 4:13 ESV
13Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus
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My goal is to help you find ways to faithfully follow Jesus and enjoy life in your everyday moments. Today's verse looks at time in a larger perspective than just your daily devotional life. It's about a larger view of time and perspective of impact. Take account of how your life is being led and ask yourself if it's working towards life for the Kingdom of God because the days are fading. Make your impact. Love people. Keep the Gospel at the forefront of your mind and your day.
Ephesians 5:15-17 ESV
15Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
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Even in the darkest and worrisome of times, we can be reminded of God's presence. Alongside his presence is the fact that his son, Jesus, has overcome the world. This same world that gives troubles and worries has been overcome by our Savior. Take heart. He is with you.
John 16:33 ESV
33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.
Hillsong United: Take Heart Lyrics (bridge only)
All our troubles and all our tears
God our hope He has overcome
All our failure and all our fear
God our love He has overcome
All our heartache and all our pain
God our healer He has overcome
All our burdens and all our shame
God our freedom He has overcome
God our justice God our grace
God our freedom He has overcome
God our refuge God our strength
God is with us He has overcome
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EDITOR NOTE:
The date of the tour was Feb. 26, 2011. The Aftermath tour took place in 2011 but the album itself was released in 2010.
The act of forgiveness is not about forgetting. It's about releasing yourself from the self-inflicting paralyzation that unforgiveness can put on us. Forgiving as Christ has forgiven cannot truly be done on our own. Verse 12 reminds us of a few things we can 'put on' in order to forgive as God has.
Colossians 3:12-13 ESV
12Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 13bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
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I'm not in any form of construction but I think it's important to learn how to build your life upon Chris, the solid rock. Matthew 5, 6, and 7 are full of to-dos as Christians. It's not a list to accomplish in order to succeed and attain salvation but it is words of wisdom for those who are choosing to follow Jesus.
Matthew 7:24-27
24 “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”
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I believe it matters more for you to know who and where God is. Our strength and abilities are very limited but God’s grace is more than enough. Don’t worry about the results of what God is going to do with your life, be more mindful of your attitude about His presence in your life.
Judges 6:12-18 ESV
“And the angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, “The Lord is with you, O mighty man of valor.” And Gideon said to him, “Please, my lord, if the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all his wonderful deeds that our fathers recounted to us, saying, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?’ But now the Lord has forsaken us and given us into the hand of Midian.” And the Lord turned to him and said, “Go in this might of yours and save Israel from the hand of Midian; do not I send you?” And he said to him, “Please, Lord, how can I save Israel? Behold, my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s house.” And the Lord said to him, “But I will be with you, and you shall strike the Midianites as one man.” And he said to him, “If now I have found favor in your eyes, then show me a sign that it is you who speak with me. Please do not depart from here until I come to you and bring out my present and set it before you.” And he said, “I will stay till you return.”” _______________________________________________________________ Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. https://www.instagram.com/anthonykgoodwin https://www.twitter.com/anthonykgoodwin http://www.facebook.com/chaplainanthonykgoodwin
How do you approach God in the middle or just after a tough moment? This Psalm of David allows us to take a different perspective about how we can see God as our protector. His mercy can cover sins but also bring about spiritual and emotional support for your soul. Thank Him and trust Him.
Psalms 18:1-2
I love you, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
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If you're listening to this, you probably still have some sort of faith in God. I'm cheering for you. This Scripture reminds us that the lack of integrity in others does not mean God is less faithful or true. Hold close to God and have a healthy perspective of the flaw and sins in other people, even yourself. Keep faith in God and not in man. We will fail but God never will.
Romans 3:1-4
'Then what advantage has the Jew? Or what is the value of circumcision? Much in every way. To begin with, the Jews were entrusted with the oracles of God. What if some were unfaithful? Does their faithlessness nullify the faithfulness of God? By no means! Let God be true though everyone were a liar, as it is written, “That you may be justified in your words, and prevail when you are judged.” '
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Many frustrations in life are over not having enough. Maybe you're frustrated because of the lack of money, responsibility, or time. These things should not be coveted but they should be well accounted for. Being faithful with what you have is one part stewardship and another part thankful. Use what you have and enjoy what you have.
Luke 16:10
One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.
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The promises of God are many and come to fruition because of Christ's work on the cross and not your own effort. But although we are not working for these promises, much of our life can be waiting upon these promises. Your storm today is not the end of what God is doing. Hold on, be faithful and be patient. I'm waiting alongside of you.
Hebrews 6:11-12
11And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, 12so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
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Maybe you've heard the words, "He must increase, but I must decrease." Do you know who said this? Do you know WHY this was said? Best of all, what does this verse carry over into your own life? My prayer for you is to find areas of your life to slowly shed away your flesh and let Him shine brighter. Take the same attitude that John the Baptist did. Point not to yourself but to the one who is responsible for it all.
John 3:30
He must increase, but I must decrease.
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What does freedom mean to you? A better question is what does freedom mean to God? With this question properly answered then you are able to live an effective and Godly life for the sake of others and not only for yourself. Today, pursue ways to actively love others by serving them. Pray for God's strength and peace in order to accomplish this.
Galatians 5:13
For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
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The unique nature of Jesus is his ability to relate and understand our hurt, emotions, and desires. The only difference is that he didn't allow those passions to overtake his thoughts or actions into sins. This seems like too perfect of a mark to reach on our own and IT IS! But with his help, grace, and mercy we are able to access the very help that we need. He understands you and wants to help you through your worrisome and frustrating times. You are not alone.
Hebrews 4:15-16
15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
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A verse that is often misquoted is James 4:7. The idea of being a strong superhero who can resist the devil is big and exciting. But our strength is not enough on its own. Our years of spiritual practices or built-in safeguards are not the only tools we should be relying on. The first thing we should do is submit to God. Be humble and surrender to Christ first and the rest will follow.
James 4:7-8
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.
Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life.
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A hope that is only for today is a hope to be pitied. God's plan of hope for believers is not merely for a good life. The hope we have goes beyond that and beyond the grave. Listen in as Anthony shares 1 Corinthians 15:14, 19. These two verses communicate the greatness of a hope that Christians have in Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:14, 19
And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain.
If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied.
Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life.
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Today's Chats with Chaplain Anthony is focused on living in harmony with those around us. As Christians, we still tend to find and highlight our differences and frustrations with one another. But God has called us to live differently from those around us. Seek God's strength and understanding with these difficult moments in life. As you do, you'll find yourself authentically following Jesus exactly where you are at.
Ephesians 4:32
Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more of how that can look for you.
https://www.instagram.com/anthonykgoodwin
https://www.twitter.com/anthonykgoodwin
http://www.facebook.com/chaplainanthonykgoodwin