The Simple Truth: Recent Episodes
Pastor Dion Cordova
God cares about you more than you will ever know! In today’s message, Pastor Dion shares with you the love that the Almighty Father has for you. He knew you before you were born. He equipped you with skills, talents, and resources to further His Kingdom. He desires for you to be fruitful in all the endeavors that He calls you to. But Pastor Dion explains, that this also means that sometimes the Lord has to chasten whom He loves. He will have to prune the things in your life that are not honoring Him.
Understand the impact that your choices have on others! Today, Pastor Dion counsels you to pray before every situation. Prayer is what will guide and protect you in your decisions. It’s important to think of the ripple effects that your choices have on others and the outcomes of situations. Pastor Dion encourages you that when you cry out to the Lord for help, He will give it to you. He will not leave you lost and alone in this world. Go to the Lord with all of your cares, needs, and worries.
Are you getting discouraged in well-doing? In today’s message from Pastor Dion, he shares with you the understanding of feeling like a broken record. Maybe you keep extending invites to friends and family to attend your church, and you just feel like it’s going nowhere. Pastor Dion urges you to keep asking and to keep being persistent. You let God handle the hearts, and you stay faithful in invitation. The Bible says not to get weary in well-doing. You will reap a harvest in due season if you don’t give up!
The only way to be saved is through receiving Jesus Christ! As you listen to today’s message from Pastor Dion, he shares with you the important truth that you can’t save anyone in your own power from hell. However, you can share your testimony of what God’s done in your life with others. Pastor Dion explains that it’s the work of the Lord to open hearts. Your job is to share His Good News with as many people as you possibly can while here on Earth. God doesn’t want any to perish but for all to be saved in Jesus!
Jesus came and died to redeem our lives, to fix what was broken, and to reclaim us as His own. The world we live in often tries to tell us that we have the final say on our bodies, spirits, and souls, but that’s not true; God has already claimed them! Today, Pastor Dion will remind you that you’re redeemed in the name of Jesus Christ! So next time you’re tempted to give in to believing that the world and its ideology get to claim power over you, don’t forget that as a follower of Christ, you’re HIS!
No matter what we do, we’re always feeding into our own behaviors and others’ behaviors as well. Whether good or bad, it’s up to us – what we take in, and what we do with it. In today’s message, Pastor Dion will show you how Jesus Himself fed into His disciples, and how He lit a fire in them to go out and light other people’s fires as well! It’s important to ask Jesus to fill you and recharge you with His love, so that you can go out and do the same! It’s not you who ignite fires in His people; it’s Jesus working through you!
One of the best things about Christianity and our good God, in general, is that yes, we do get out what we put in, but we also get what God puts out! Where we lack in ANY area of our lives, God makes up that difference. He makes us whole by just existing in us! In today’s message, Pastor Dion will encourage you not to let that fact cause you to think it’s ok to slack off. YOU still need to constantly be pursuing God and His promises! You need to constantly be trusting Him and seeking His faithfulness!
I’m fairly sure that just about every one of us has prayed for God to come through on something, or give us something…and not every single time has He answered, “Yes.” That can be very discouraging as a follower of Christ. In today’s message, Pastor Dion will teach you that God doesn’t always answer “Yes”. Sometimes, His answers sound more like “Not yet” or just “No.” God works in ways you may not always understand, so His answer to your prayers, whether you like it or not, needs to be trusted wholeheartedly.
We’ve all had that experience of feeling helpless and hopeless, haven’t we? We want to do anything we can to get out of that feeling. It’s normal to want to get away from those feelings as fast as possible, but in today’s message, Pastor Dion will teach you not to run too quickly away from that helpless place. When you linger and wait on the Lord, you give Him the opportunity to speak to you. He will call you by name and lead you out of your hopelessness. Trust in the Good Shepherd. Be still, and wait on Him.
Do you keep your relationship with Jesus on the down low? Do you go to church on Sunday, singing and shouting His name, but during the week, you keep Jesus to yourself? Don’t keep Jesus boxed in. He wants to invade every day of your life. In his message today, Pastor Dion will challenge you to let Jesus take over every part of your life so that you can’t help but let Him be front and center. Don’t hide your love for Him. Don’t worry about what others will think about you. Worry about what Jesus thinks of you.
The words of Jesus are pretty amazing, aren’t they? They challenge us and compel us to live better lives and follow Him, but even more powerful than Jesus’ words are His actions. In today’s message, Pastor Dion will remind you how Jesus preached the gospel with His actions. He showed love, forgiveness and compassion while He was being tortured and killed. There is no more powerful sermon than the one Jesus preached on the cross. Follow Jesus, and live the gospel today.
Amen! What a powerful truth! God forgives even the worst of sinners. On the cross, Jesus was surrounded by the worst of sinners and He prayed for their forgiveness. While He was being tortured and killed unjustly, while He was being sinned against, He prayed for their forgiveness. In his message today, Pastor Dion will encourage you with the amazing truth that you can be forgiven, no matter what you’ve done. It doesn’t matter how far you’ve fallen, or how deep you’ve sunk. Jesus forgives you.
We don’t like interruptions, do we? Maybe we’re in the middle of a good book, and someone interrupts us; we think of it as rude. However, there are times when we should be open to interruption. In his message today, Pastor Dion teaches about how Simon was interrupted during his day in Jerusalem by the cross of Jesus. Jesus is calling you to set aside whatever you’re doing and carry His cross. Maybe you need to set aside sin or distraction. Let yourself be interrupted so you can follow Him.
Have you hitched yourself to the right cart? There’s so many things you can put your trust in instead of God. Like hoping in a career, a political candidate, or even in the love of someone here on earth. The problem is all those things can let you down. In today’s message, Pastor Dion will remind you that only God won’t let you down. He is the only one who is completely trustworthy and faithful. Don’t put those other things above God. Hitch your cart to Jesus alone, and He will carry you. Trust Him.
It’s easy to have respect for Jesus as a teacher or a humanitarian. He sounds so wise, and He showed His love through action. However, we can’t stop at simply admiring Jesus, because He claimed to be more than a prophet or a good person. He claimed to be God. In today’s message, Pastor Dion will challenge you to ask yourself who you think Jesus is. What are you going to do because of your encounter with Jesus? Are you going to just admire Him, or are you going to give your life to Him?
Have you answered that question? Is Jesus the King of your life? It’s the ultimate question that everyone needs to wrestle with and answer. Maybe you grew up in a Christian home and grew up going to church, or maybe you think you’re a Christian because you’re an American. In his message today, Pastor Dion will teach that your heritage or the people you hang out with doesn’t make you a Christian. You can’t rely on anyone else to make the decision. You have to personally make Jesus King of your life.
The New Testament describes Jesus as the “son of David.” But the question arises, how could Jesus be the son of David if David lived approximately 1,000 years before Jesus? The answer is that Christ (the Messiah) was the fulfillment of the prophecy of the seed of David. Today, Pastor Dion will explain that Jesus is the promised Messiah, which means He had to be of the lineage of David. Jesus fulfilled all the prophecies concerning His First Coming, and He’ll fulfill those concerning His Second Coming!
Today, Pastor Dion will be explaining that God put eternity in the hearts of every person. Jesus emphasized that faith in God’s only begotten Son determines a person's eternal destination! For those who repent of their sin and receive Jesus Christ as their Savior, the afterlife will consist of an eternity spent enjoying God. For those who reject Christ, however, the afterlife will be quite different. Jesus describes their destiny as “darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth”.
As Pastor Dion continues his teaching series he’ll be reminding you that God’s power and wisdom are the forces that enable us to believe and be saved. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast”. You can’t take credit for coming to salvation in Christ. All the power and wisdom come from God through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. All credit goes to Him.
Today, Pastor Dion will challenge you to continue in God's grace and not allow legalism to creep into your walk with the Lord. Legalists believe in and demand strict literal adherence to rules and regulations in order to earn salvation. Doctrinally, it’s a position that’s opposed to grace. Those who hold a legalistic position often fail to see the real purpose of the law, especially the purpose of the Old Testament law of Moses, which is to be our “schoolmaster” or “tutor” to bring us to Christ.
Does your past stifle you? Are you trying to turn your life around but can’t find any way to dig yourself out of your mistakes? In today’s message, Pastor Dion illustrates that if you want to be forever changed, let God’s grace wash you white as snow. It's not something you have to work for or deserve; it's a gift freely given because of the blood of Jesus. This grace enables you to confidently approach God, knowing His love for you is unconditional. Believe that Jesus died on the cross—stake your claim in eternity.
What impact does Jesus have on your life? It's incredible how His sacrifice on the cross redeems us and invites us into a deeply personal relationship with Him. Today, Pastor Dion wants you to know that instead of feeling pressured to meet religious standards to earn God's love, rest assured that Jesus has already done everything necessary for you to have an intimate connection with Him. Step into a new chapter full of peace and freedom. Focus on allowing Jesus to dwell in you and guide your life.
Have you ever been ridiculed for your love of God? Today, Pastor Dion reminds us of the story of Mary and her gift to Jesus when she anointed his feet with oil. Mary had experienced the restoration and salvation of Jesus. She went all out and offered Jesus her best. Criticism followed from other religious people. Church attendance one day a week does not draw anyone’s criticism, but worshiping God seven days a week does. Do something out of love for God, so strange, that others notice.
Why do we attend church? It should not be out of duty or obligation. In today’s message, Pastor Dion challenges us to be like the early church whose members had their lives transformed by Jesus. People, whose lives had been filled with anger, anxiety, and rebellion, now come together with a common Savior and a common faith. We come to thank God for salvation. We come to express our gratitude, appreciation, and love. We come to honor Christ and serve Him because of all He has done for us.
Did you ever hear big news, and think it was the most important event in history? In today’s message, Pastor Dion tells us that the biggest news was not Jesus’ ascension into heaven, but that he descended to earth in the first place. Jesus left the glory of heaven to come to a lost, dark, and cursed world to save us. We are the reason for His coming. Just like Zacheus, Jesus knows our names, And He pursues us and seeks to save us. When it comes to salvation, Jesus takes the first step. We are lost and He finds us.
God is the one who initiates our interest in knowing Him. He may use miracles, testimonies, hardships, or whatever He knows will draw us to Him. Today, Pastor Dion reminds us of these truths. He says that before we believed, we were uncomfortable with spiritual things. Sometimes people even have hostility towards churches, pastors, or religion. People are not attracted to God until He stirs up their hearts and minds towards Him. He is the instigator. God will leverage everything He can to draw men to Him.
Can you imagine being in a hurry to face suffering? In today’s message, Pastor Dion reminds us just how much Jesus loves us. On the way to Jerusalem, Jesus told His disciples that they were going there for Him to be betrayed, tortured, crucified, and killed, and yet, Jesus was in a hurry to get there. He did it because he could not wait to provide salvation for mankind. No greater love could ever exist. Jesus was on a mission to get to Jerusalem because he knew his death would provide salvation for you.
Is there anything in your life that is preventing you from hearing God? There’s so much that can distract us in this life. Social media, political news, our jobs, or even the busyness of our own minds. We can complain that we don’t know God’s will for our lives, but are we leaving room to hear Him? In today’s message, Pastor Dion will challenge you to quiet your life so you can hear the voice of Jesus. He wants to speak to you. Turn off all the noise around you, and let God’s voice be heard in your life.
Are you a regular church attendee, or do you think you don’t really need it? Maybe you’ve been hurt by someone at church, so you think you can have a relationship with God on your own. In his message today, Pastor Dion will remind you that church is not a perfect place, but where two or more Christians are gathered, God is there. The church is God’s vessel to expand His Kingdom. It is essential that you have other believers to help you along as you seek to draw closer to God and live for Him.
What are you holding on to? Are you holding onto something in this world or are you holding onto Jesus? It can be so difficult to give up that vice or that thing that we think is bringing us security or happiness. In today’s message, Pastor Dion will challenge you to let go of what you’re holding onto in this world. God has so much life and joy that is waiting for you in Jesus if you would just let go of the things of this world that are getting in the way. Stop holding on to the world and grab hold of Jesus.
Do you have childlike faith? Jesus isn’t asking you to have a childish faith, but a childlike faith. A child accepts without question, but as we grow older, we tend to have a harder time accepting things on faith. In his message today, Pastor Dion will teach that like a child you should simply believe, receive, and enjoy. Jesus tells you to not worry about the simple needs of your life, what you will wear or eat. Set your eyes on following Him above all else, and Jesus will provide for your every need.
All you need to come to God is simple, child-like faith. In today’s message, Pastor Dion will examine the account of the little children coming to Jesus. It’s a tender moment that wouldn’t have happened if the disciples had their way. It seemed like a waste of their Rabbi’s time to talk with these kids - what good could come of it? But, Jesus rebuked His disciples for this thinking - these kids came to Him with hearts that were open and ready to learn and offered a pure example of what our faith should look like.
God knows your heart even better than you do. He knows your every need and desire, and He knows the way your heart has fallen into disrepair or deception. All He asks of us is that we come to Him with simple, child-like faith - like a young child running to their loving father after a fall. As Pastor Dion will explain in today’s message, we don’t have to know or understand how our God will fix us, but when we run to Him for help, we can have confidence that He will make it better.
Does every part of your life honor and glorify God? …Will your death bring Him glory as well? Most of us have some fear of death. For some, it’s debilitating while others give it little thought, but it’s a common problem. As Pastor Dion will encourage us in today’s message, as believers, we don’t need to be afraid. Yes, it may be uncomfortable. It could be sudden and sooner than you’d like, but if you devote yourself to serving God, He’ll use your life and death to bring others to Himself.
How could death be a part of God’s plan? Isn’t it the opposite of what He designed humanity for? As Pastor Dion will explain in today’s message, our God is a Redeemer. He’s all-knowing and wise, and He knows that death and suffering are some of the most impactful things we experience in this world. He doesn’t want or cause those things in our lives, but as a Redeemer, He can take them and turn them into instruments of His will, furthering His Kingdom and drawing us closer to Himself.
How do you get light into a room after a dark night? You open the windows, right? All of us are born into this world with darkness inside. We’re bent on serving self and rejecting the sovereignty of God. We close our hearts to Him because of this nature. As we’ll be reminded in today’s message from Pastor Dion, it’s our choice to open the windows and doors of our hearts to God. Even after salvation, you’ll find spaces in your heart that are dark. Growing in Christ will require opening up fully to the light He brings.
None of us want suffering or pain. You don’t need to go seeking it out - in this broken world, it will find you. In your times of trial, it can be easy to feel bad for yourself and maybe even start to question the goodness of God. As Pastor Dion continues leading us through his study of Scripture’s encounters with Jesus, he’ll remind us that God is not the source of your hardship. But, He wants to walk with you through it and turn it into a tool for His glory as well as your growth and betterment.
There are only two paths that can be taken in this life. The first path is broad and it’s the most traveled by those in the world, and the second is narrow and there are few that go on that path. As Pastor Dion continues his teaching series, he’ll be encouraging you to be a light in this dark world and to help others see that the proper path to take is the one leading to Jesus and eternal life with Him. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life and no one comes to the Father except through Him!
It has been said that the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. Today, Pastor Dion will be reminding you that as a Christian there will be times of persecution and trials here on this Earth and that if you're a genuine follower of Jesus, you’ll still shine as a light even when it gets dark. Jesus Himself told His disciples not to be surprised when the world hates them because it hated Him first.
When was the last time you preached the Gospel to an unbeliever and made disciples? Today, Pastor Dion will be challenging you to obey the Great Commission and to examine yourself to see if you're truly obeying the Words of Jesus. If you're spending all your time building up your own empire on Earth rather than helping further God’s Kingdom, you're living in sin. You're still here for a purpose, and that purpose is to bring people to Jesus by preaching the Gospel and making disciples.
That is so true! Loving God is easy, right? I mean, how hard is it to love someone who is perfect? It’s loving imperfect people that’s difficult. As Pastor Dion teaches you today, Jesus commands us to love everyone. Not just those who think like you, look like you and act like you. If you call yourself a follower of Jesus, then you must also display the character of Jesus. Like the good Samaritan, Jesus took care of you and loved you unconditionally and extravagantly. He calls you to do the same.
Isn’t that so encouraging? I’m sure you’ve often felt similar to how Moses felt when God called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt: “But God! Who am I? I can’t do such a big thing!” And you know what? You’re right! You can’t do such big things on your own! As Pastor Dion teaches you today when God calls you to do His work, He equips you with the most powerful thing so that you can accomplish it: the name of Jesus! With Jesus, nothing is impossible. What is God calling you to do today?
We’ve all messed up. Maybe you’ve messed up so badly that you don’t think you could ever be forgiven. Maybe you think all you deserve is punishment. Today, Pastor Dion shows us the tenderness of Jesus as He encounters a woman caught in a horrific sin. According to the law, she deserves to die. But Jesus stoops down to her level and offers her mercy and forgiveness. If you find yourself in a similar situation, filled with guilt and shame, come just as you are to Jesus. He is compassionate and forgiving.
What’s the thirstiest you’ve ever been? Maybe it was after playing sports in the hot summer sun. Or after you had just eaten a pile of spicy chicken wings. I’m sure the only thing that could satisfy you at that moment was a cup of cold, refreshing water. Today, Pastor Dion teaches that Jesus told His followers that He is the living water! Jesus freely offers an abundance of grace, peace, forgiveness, hope, and new life. Everything else in this world will leave you feeling unfulfilled and thirsty again.
If you ask any superstar athlete the recipe to their success, they would all say that it takes hard work and dedication. They’re constantly practicing and working on their skills. They’re reviewing film sessions and learning from their coaches and mentors. The same is necessary for Christians. As Pastor Dion teaches you today, in order to be ready and effective for God’s work, you need to be filled up with God’s word. You’re in a constant spiritual war, and the enemy is battling for your mind and soul.
No spouse or significant other wants to be one of many. They want to be the one and only. Likewise, Jesus also calls you to an exclusive relationship with Him. Today, Pastor Dion encourages you to become a follower of Jesus, instead of being merely a fan of Him. Following Jesus means that you give up your life in order to gain everlasting life in Jesus. It means you become a committed member of His kingdom instead of just being part of the crowd. Today, choose to get off the sidelines and follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Have you ever been walking through a store, looked at your phone to check something, and walked into a person or display? Or maybe you’ve been in training and started to daydream. Next thing you know, the training’s over, and you have no idea what’s going on. Your inattention in these situations caused you to have some difficult times. What happens when you start to focus less on Jesus? Today, Pastor Dion will illustrate how the absence of attention can not only cause embarrassment but may lead to missed blessings.
Are you a fan of a particular musician or artist? You may be a sports fan, and have a favorite team, but do you follow that team or artist? As a fan, you might see your artist or team playing near you, and if you can, you’ll go. If you’re a follower, you would rearrange your schedule to make sure you get to as many shows or games as possible. When it comes to Jesus, are you a fan or a follower? Today, Pastor Dion points out some key differences between someone who is simply a fan of Jesus and someone who’s a follower.
We’ve all prayed that God would do something big in our lives. It may be that He’d heal a family member or friend, or that He’d allow a promotion, or maybe just give us some answers. We pray, then we wait… silence, there’s no immediate response. Today, Pastor Dion will express that maybe the silence is Jesus calling you to accept Him, not just as your heavenly Father, but as your Lord! You must confirm Jesus’ lordship over your life. Then, you’ll realize the “obstacles” are meant to “affirm your faith”.
Have you ever been a part of something for a long time, and it starts to get harder and harder to keep doing it? Maybe it’s not as fun, or you don’t feel like you have the time or energy to commit to it anymore. It’s easy to slowly fall away from the thing you once were passionate about. As Pastor Dion will show you in today’s message, sometimes you have to stop and remember why you started that thing in the first place. As a Christian, you have to keep your “why” in front of you, or you’ll easily be going through the motions.
The world we live in today is overflowing with evil. This even affects our lives, as Satan is constantly on the lookout for ways to bring us down, whether physically, mentally, or spiritually. But did you know that Satan has only a limited amount of time? Pastor Dion describes in today's message, how Jesus will defeat Satan in His second coming. When Jesus returns, he will capture Satan and his followers, and bring them to justice. The adversary is terrified because he realizes how powerful Jesus, our Saviour, is!
When Lucifer was cast out of heaven, he plotted his vengeance against God by attempting to destroy God's best creation, humans. But do you know how he draws us into his schemes? Pastor Dion explains how Satan deceives us in today's message. The adversary is constantly on the lookout for ways to bring us down. He deceives you by making you want something other than Jesus, whether it's an addiction or other desires. But Jesus will never abandon you. His love will always lead you back to Him.
We want to serve God, but we often have some requirements. We are ready to serve God, but only if we have what is needed, such as talent or financial assistance. But is that really what God wants from us? Pastor Dion demonstrates today, how you can serve God with whatever you have. You may believe that God requires your complete devotion, in order to serve Him. You can, however, serve God with what you do have. You can serve God even at work by being an example of Christ to your coworkers.
When we are chosen to represent our company or college, we feel a great deal of responsibility. We try our hardest to do good for others. But did you know you've been given more responsibilities? In today's message, Pastor Dion explains the great commission. When you accept Jesus as your Saviour and believe in Him, you are commissioned to share the Gospel with people who are unaware of Jesus and help them experience the joy that you have in Him! How can you begin sharing the Gospel with others?
When we receive a gift or purchase something we have wanted for a long time, we often like to tell our friends or family about it. We enjoy talking about the highlights of our lives. Is this however true when it comes to sharing the Gospel? Today, Pastor Dion discusses how Salvation is God's greatest gift to mankind. Jesus has delivered you from the clutches of sin and given you eternal life. Every other joy in this world pales in comparison to the joy of receiving Salvation. How can you share this greatest gift with others?
We have a tendency to think foolishly when making important decisions in our lives. We make a decision based on a plan, but we ignore the possibility that the plan makes no sense at all. We frequently fail to think wisely. But how do you get started making wise decisions? Today, Pastor Dion illustrates how you can begin relying on God to make decisions for you. Because of their faith in Jesus, the two blind men were given sight. You can begin having faith in Jesus today, to bring about positive changes in your life.
We face difficulties on a daily basis, whether we make our own decisions or the enemy plots against us, and brings trials into our lives. When faced with adversity, we have a tendency to make a series of poor decisions, resulting in a jumbled-up life. What can you do in such a situation? Today, Pastor Dion discusses how to remain calm and composed in difficult situations. Trials will continue to come your way, but you can remain calm and elevate your faith in Jesus in those situations, putting your trust in Him!
It might not seem difficult to believe that humans are extremely impatient. When making decisions or planning things on our own, we like to be stubborn. We have a tendency to ignore what others have to say and instead do our own thing. Pastor Dion tells you today, how God uses the difficult path to bring you back to the right path. We even refuse to listen to what God says at times. God brings trials into our lives, to put us on the right path. You can start listening to God right away, and let Him guide you!
We're really messed up creatures. We get caught up in situations and addictions that harm us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. We always end up making a mess for ourselves, no matter what we do. But do you know who can pick you out of your mess? Pastor Dion clarifies in today's message, how Jesus can save you from any difficulty. Satan may bring you trials and bring you down. But no matter how bad you feel, Jesus will always come to your aid, because He loves you more than anyone else!
Have you ever wondered why you continue to face difficulties, after believing in Jesus and receiving salvation? Even with Jesus, you may begin to believe that your life isn't perfect. Is this, however, the case? Pastor Dion explains in today's message, how your life changes after you receive Salvation. Even after you get to know Jesus, you will face difficulties and trials because the enemy is always looking for ways to bring you down. However, you can be confident that Jesus will always protect you!
Is there fruit, in your life, of a heart that has chosen to believe in and follow Jesus? In today’s teaching, Pastor Dion will speak on the change that should take place when making such a radical decision. Jesus said, “Take up your cross, and follow Me.” When you decide to give your life to Jesus, repentance and change should follow. The Lord wants to give you “life” beyond the eternal. He wants to be your sustainer here on earth! Let’s consider if our life reflects one that has been changed by Christ.
There is not a prerequisite for being worthy of the gift of Salvation. Jesus came to save ALL. Today, Pastor Dion will show listeners how Jesus made an effort to connect with people of all backgrounds during His tenure on earth. This example of Christ in the Gospels gives rich hope to us today. No matter your past history, or current state, Jesus died for YOU. What a powerful message worth taking to the world! May this truth inspire us to spread the Gospel to all whom we encounter!
All of creation bows to King Jesus! Today, Pastor Dion will speak to the mighty attributes of God, and how this belief from the centurion in Luke 7, stimulated a passionate word to share with those he encountered. Who do you believe God is? The answer to this simple question can guide how confidently you proclaim Him! Experiencing the Lord in our own private time will grow our knowledge and understanding of who He is. Let’s pursue a greater relationship with Jesus so that we can boldly testify of Him!
Are you boldly proclaiming the love and testimony of Jesus to those in your life? In today’s message, Pastor Dion will encourage listeners that their message of Jesus to the world stimulates faith! It can be easy to downplay our role in expanding the Kingdom, but without messengers like us, the Word of God would not spread! How can you spread the Good News of Jesus more confidently? Our broken world needs to know of the overwhelming, never-ending love of God!
Salvation from our sin is so powerful, but God desires to give us even more! Today, Pastor Dion will teach listeners how the Lord wants to fulfill His people, even after that conversion moment. Some merely view Jesus as “hell insurance,” but He can also be the One who strengthens, supports, and sustains you in everyday life! We can never reach a complete understanding of God. Discovering who He is, and His nature, is a lifelong encounter that only comes through a deep, daily relationship with Him!
What a sweet truth it is that God cares more about our heart, and the direction we are going, than the places we have been. In today’s message, Pastor Dion will show the heart of Jesus towards the “broken” in John chapter five. As Jesus walked through His ministry on earth, He made numerous efforts to seek out the lost, the hurting, and the outcast. No matter the past decisions you have made, or baggage you may be carrying, God still desires a real relationship with you from this point forward!
Have you considered that the joy that you exude can be a good indicator of your relationship with Christ? Throughout the Gospels, the Pharisees were often seen as unpleasant or scowling. Today, Pastor Dion will encourage listeners to make a deeper relationship with Jesus their source of joy! To rely on circumstances or situations to bring joy would be foolish. These things change almost daily, but God and the promises of Scripture remain the same forever. We can find joy in Him!
Did you know that Jesus seeks you out personally? In today’s teaching, Pastor Dion will show listeners how Jesus found Levi the tax collector, in the midst of a crowd. Someone who would have been slandered by the crowd, Jesus went and found him. Perhaps you feel left out, alone, or rejected. Jesus desires a relationship with you. Yes, He came for the whole world, but He was thinking of you when He died on the cross. How inspiring to be on the mind of God, even when we are at our lowest points!
What is there to possibly value more than your eternal standing before God? Today, Pastor Dion will teach listeners that Jesus was Almighty God and that His forgiveness of your sins is worth more than anything. When the paralyzed man received healing, he was also given forgiveness of his sins. There is no greater “feeling of healing” than to know our eternity is secure! Walking in sin is dark and burdensome, but when Jesus sets us free, we can live with more joy and purpose as we represent Him!
How deep is your faith today? Are you actively pursuing it, or is it “just there?” In today’s teaching, Pastor Dion will show listeners how the friends of the paralyzed man in Luke 5, took action! Because of their faith in Jesus, they took radical steps to encounter Him, and as a result, their friend was healed. What area of your life could use a little bit more faith? May we have the courage, boldness, and passion to run after Jesus, trusting in Him, even if the world around us thinks we are crazy!
How comforting it is to know that the God of the universe wants to know us, and care for us, on a personal level! In today’s message, Pastor Dion will look at the story of Jesus and the leper. If anyone had reason to walk “holier than thou,” it was Jesus, but He met everyone from all walks of life with love and grace. Even the man who was “unclean,” Jesus personally sought him out. So don’t be ashamed of your “status,” God still pursues you and desires a personal relationship with you!
Have you only believed in Jesus, but not yet chosen to follow Him with your life? Today, Pastor Dion will teach listeners that there is so much more of Jesus to experience when we follow Him! While the first step in a relationship with Jesus is to believe in Him, He desires something much deeper. As we grow in our walk with Him, and His direction in our life, we become more like Him! In a world that clamors for your attention, choose to follow the One who is the source of life and salvation!
How well do you know Jesus? How well do you think He knows you? You can bet that there’s nothing about you, no detail too small, that He doesn’t know completely. Today Pastor Dion says Jesus wants you to get to know Him the same way. Every detail, no matter how small. He wants you to seek Him and learn everything about HIm. Jesus invites you to look for flaws because there aren’t any. He is perfect and wants you to discover this as you seek Him and deepen in your relationship with Him.
Who can save you from your sin? Only one - Jesus! You may not be comfortable admitting it, but the truth is, everyone is a sinner. Everyone falls short of the Kingdom of God. Today Pastor Dion makes this point clear but also offers hope. Jesus was sent to remove that sin and offer a path to righteousness. Only He can make that promise, and give you freedom from your sin. Once you can admit your sins to God and accept Him as your savior, you will receive His salvation and the freedom that is given to all who believe.
There is always someone or something in our lives that serves as a distraction. The enemy makes every effort to keep us from developing a relationship with God. Pastor Dion explains in today's message, how the enemy tries to put a barrier between you and God. God is constantly looking for ways to reach out to you and guide you, but Satan is looking for the opposite, so he brings a distraction at a crucial moment. But you can rejoice because Jesus is with you and will never let the enemy defeat you.
Have you ever heard an ambulance or fire department siren, warning you that an emergency vehicle is approaching from a distance? Similarly, the Bible warns us of the end times that are approaching for humanity, as God's judgment falls upon us. Pastor Dion clarifies today, how only Jesus can save you from God's wrath. We cannot have a relationship with the Father because we are sinners. When Jesus died on the cross, however, He washed away all of our sins. Jesus is the only one, who can save us from judgment.
We frequently make promises to others. We end up committing to people even though we are not up for the task. Because we are all flawed, we all fail to keep our promises from time to time. But did you know there is someone who always follows through on His commitments? Pastor Dion tells you today, about God's promises to you. Despite the fact that we are unworthy, Jesus has made a certain covenant with us. You can count on Him to keep His promises to you because He loves you more than anyone else!
Pastor Dion made an incredible statement! We frequently find ourselves in situations that are beyond our ability to solve. We try many things and seek help from people we believe can help us, but we often fail to seek God's help. Pastor Dion discusses in today's message, how you can always rely on God. Instead of relying on others in a difficult situation, you can seek God's help and guidance. He created you, and He knows you better than anyone else. All you need to do is make Him your number one priority!
We like to look for things that pique our interest and make us want to achieve or own them. It could even be a particular way of life to which you are addicted. But do you know what happens to your lifestyle when you become a follower of Jesus? Pastor Dion explains in today's message, how your lifestyle changes after you receive Salvation. When you accept Jesus as your Saviour, your entire way of life changes. You start to dislike and avoid certain habits or addictions, that have a negative impact on your life.
Have you ever had thoughts and questions for which you sought answers but never received them? There is always something in our minds that we are unable to share with others. We often knock on the wrong door when looking for answers. Do you know anyone, who can provide you with answers to all of your questions? Pastor Dion tells you in today's message, how God is always looking for ways to reach out to you. God created you and thus knows you from the inside out. He is the answer to all of your problems.
There are many things we can accomplish on our own in life. It could be a career, a family, a business, or even fame. But did you know that there is one place where we as humans cannot possibly ascend without assistance? Today, Pastor Dion reveals the only way to heaven. We are all born with sin. We lack the ability to forgive ourselves. But God provided a way out for us by sending His only son, Jesus, to die on the cross for us, so that our sins can now be forgiven, and we can have eternal life in Jesus!
Everyone has the desire to compare themselves to others. We feel the need for validation that our lives are better and more perfect than others. But is that the truth? Pastor Dion explains today, how to recognize flaws in your life. Your life may appear to be perfect in your eyes, but as you get to know Jesus, you begin to see your true inner self, and how sin has a hold on your life. However, when you accept Jesus as your Saviour and repent of your sins, Jesus takes it all away and restores your life.
Living in this world, that’s full of darkness and difficulty can oftentimes have an effect on your spirit and your faith. Sin is an everpresent, but unwelcome, part of your life. And just like you cleanse your outward self daily, you need to frequently clean up your spirit. Today, Pastor Dion will challenge you to look daily to God’s word to grow and shape you and to purify and cleanse you. God’s word makes you new and gradually rids your heart of the yuck. God’s word makes you more and more like Jesus.
There are so many things today that can cause you to fear and worry. And these feelings can lead to discouragement, doubt, and despair down deep in your soul. This, Pastor Dion explains today, indicates that you’re spiritually dehydrated. You need the restorative power of the Holy Spirit. When you seek the Lord in His word, you gain the right perspective about the world, you grow in hope, and are filled with deep peace. You’re spiritually nurtured and sustained through Jesus, the Living Water. Drink Deep of Him!
In our walk with Christ, one of the most difficult things to do is consistently stay in His Word. No matter how much we desire to grow closer to Him through reading the Bible, there’s always an excuse to avoid it. Today, Pastor Dion explains that if you want to stay true to who you are through Christ, you need to maintain a steady presence in the Bible. Even if you feel experienced in your faith and have been reading the Bible since you were a child, you’ll lose your armor if you don’t stay steadfast in God’s Word.
Often times in our walk with Jesus, we get bogged down and lose sight of what we’re working towards. Today, Pastor Dion wants you to know that if you want to grow in your faith like never before, you need to cut the distractions out of your life. Whether it’s negative relationships, worldly possessions, or doubting God’s truth, you need to let God cut all of it out. The more you’re less serious about your relationship with God, the further away from Him you’ll backslide. Give Him all the control.
In your walk with Christ, have you ever felt weary in standing up to sin? Have you ever felt like the devil is constantly beating you down with no hope of getting back up? In today’s message, Pastor Dion wants you to know that just as Jesus was tempted, we will be relentlessly tempted and the only way to stand strong is through God’s Word. When you’re at your weakest and are ready to give in to sin, turn to Jesus and let His words wash over you, reminding you what’s at stake. Avoid sin through God’s strength.
As Christians, it can be easy to fall out of staying steadfast in the Bible. Whether it’s the pressures of daily life, or focusing too much on the wrong things, when we lose our habit of reading God’s Word—oftentimes we lose it for good. Today, Pastor Dion wants you to know that if you want to experience joy and a renewed strength in your relationship with Christ, then you need to memorize His Word. If you don’t put effort into reading the Bible, you will never experience the closeness that God desires of you.
God’s Word is transformative. It doesn’t leave anyone who encounters it the same. Even those who reject it shift from ignorance to a willful rebellion after hearing the message it brings. But for those who embrace it, it brings new life and freedom from sin and fear. As Pastor Dion will illustrate in today’s message, it has the power to change entire cultures, and it can start with just a heart or two that are open to let the truth it contains fill them and remove the sin that destroys.
What an amazing gift we’ve been given in the Bible. It reveals essential truths that we can’t live without. Sure, you can eat, work, play, sleep, and function as a human, but until you allow this book to infiltrate your heart and reveal the truth of God and His plan of salvation for mankind - you aren’t truly living. As Pastor Dion will remind us in today’s message, this life-giving book was given to us by God to draw us closer to Himself and reveal His work in the past, present, and future.
The Bible is God’s reliable, inerrant Word. It reveals His heart in the story of the world so far, as well as His heart for us right now. It was written by multiple authors over the course of thousands of years, with multiple perspectives, but the Holy Spirit was behind it, inspiring it all along. Skeptics latch on to instances where there seem to be contradictions, but as Pastor Dion will point out, even at times when the story seems to vary between authors, the heart of the message remains firmly intact.
The Word of God has a supernatural capacity to speak into the lives of anyone, no matter their circumstances. It crosses borders and cultural divides as well as language barriers and touches the hearts of everyone that hears it. As such a powerful instrument of God’s will, it’s at the center of many of the enemy’s attacks. As Pastor Dion will point out in today’s message, the world is actively seeking to bring the Bible down and mark it as unreliable, but it’s as steadfast as the God who inspired it.
What is it that love is? Love is many things, but it also isn’t a lot of things. In today’s teaching, Pastor Dion gives you a full scope of the concept of love, in the way Jesus would want you to be. The truth is, you aren’t able to have this type of tenderness without God’s Spirit living inside of you. As you allow God’s love to flow through you, it becomes obvious that this affection overflows to others. It’s a supernatural type of love that can only come from God, and His ability to work in and through you in the process.
Does sharing your journey with Jesus with other people make you nervous or uncertain? It can be scary for sure, but the good news is that you’re not alone! God has given you the Holy Spirit to guide and direct you in your conversations with people regarding your journey with Jesus! How awesome is that?! Today, in his message, Pastor Dion will encourage you to be bold in your interactions with people, you’re not alone, you’re NEVER alone, so go for it! Share the good news with everyone around you!
Are you familiar with the role of the Holy Spirit? Do you know what His job is and how He’s working in your life? The Holy Spirit is ALWAYS with you, He’s your helper, your guide, and your comforter. Today, in his message, Pastor Dion will help you better understand how to work side by side with The Holy Spirit, how to lean into Him, listen, and be guided by Him. You’re not alone in this world. You’ve got a helper by your side every moment of every day! Trust Him, lean into Him for EVERYTHING!
Does your life ever feel so heavy or confusing that you can’t see a way out of it all? The good news for you today is that God loves you so much that He sent His only Son to die for you so that you would have hope and a future! On top of that, He also has given you The Bible so that you would have a manual to live your life by! Today, in his message, Pastor Dion will remind you of this amazing reality, that you’re not on this earth by yourself, God has given you His Word and amazing people to do life with!
How good of a driver are you when no one is on the road? It’s just you and the open highway - and you’re the master, right? What if we through rush hour traffic into the mix? Pastor Dion cautions us today that anyone can be a SUPER Christian when they don’t have to deal with people or a community. They think they are flawless. Yet our faith is proved when we are in the midst of the church community. Is it at work when you are out in the world? Today, allow the Holy Spirit to give you faith in action.
In life, no one likes dwelling in a bad situation. Perhaps you are there for a season but you are believing in a light at the end of the tunnel. Jesus is there to see you through. Pastor Dion emphasizes that Jesus will always turn a negative into a positive for the good of those who love and follow Him. The scriptures also urge us not to keep sinning just because of grace but to strive for God's heart. Don’t take advantage of the love of God but allow God to turn your loss into a win for His heavenly kingdom.
You’ve heard the phrase - ‘what is your gut telling you?’ Because saying, “What is the Holy Spirit telling you,” doesn’t necessarily roll right off the tongue, right? Yet, Pastor Dion reminds us that the Holy Spirit will never lead you outside of truth. When it comes to tough decisions as a Christian, there will be a deep feeling in your soul. If a situation seems like it’s off from the character of Jesus, that’s the Holy Spirit urging you that it is. Today, listen to the Holy Spirit and trust your gut to walk in truth!
In this day and age of media at our fingertips, it seems we have a how-to video on everything. What if you could have the best teacher for your faith and access them 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - TODAY? Pastor Dion encourages us that we have THE BEST helper in the world that guides and inspires our spiritual lives to look more like Jesus. Pastor Dion goes further in urging us that you don’t even have to subscribe to a pricey masterclass to access the Holy Spirit - He is always with us! He is simply the best!
When Joshua lead Israel into the promised land, after crossing the Jordan River, they took stones from the river and made a monument as a reminder of God's faithfulness. Pastor Dion tells us today that it's important to be reminded of God's works often. If we lose sight of who God is, we won't act in faith but in fear. The Holy Spirit reminds us and encourages us to have faith. The same God who helped Israel across the Jordan was the same God who would take down the Jericho wall, and is the same God helping us today!
Everyone, Everywhere, Forever. That means you and I are not exempt from the work of The Spirit, and it also means He is even working on that one person that really gets on our nerves! Pastor Dion will dive deeper into what the work of the Holy Spirit is in today's message, and he'll encourage us to both submit to and join in that mission. God is building His Kingdom in us, and around us. He is bringing people to Himself, redeeming, and refining each of us. What better work can we join than that?
Going to therapy, special programs, and rehab aren't bad things, but when it comes to the root issue of sin in our lives, Jesus truly is our only hope. No matter how much self-effort we put in, we can never save ourselves from sin. We will hear today from Pastor Dion, that it's the Holy Spirit that reveals that sin to us, draws us to Jesus, and frees us from that sticky, entangling sin issue. The Christian faith is not some religious act of pulling ourselves up, it is amazing grace and forgiveness that dwells with us.
What comes to mind when you think of the Holy Spirit? Is it tongues of fire on the day of Pentecost? Or maybe you think of the story of creation when God's Spirit hovered over the waters? Do you think of the Holy Spirit dwelling inside of you and me? Pastor Dion Shares today about the Holy Spirit, who He is, and how we not only have access to Him, but that he dwells in us, and empowers us to do the good work God calls us to. If you've ever wondered about the Holy Spirit's role, stick around for today's episode!
We aren't saved by our works but by Jesus. However, Pastor Dion shares today that our works DO make a difference! Can you imagine if a bride didn't care how she dressed for her wedding? If she didn't shower, or put on clean clothes, brush her hair, or really put any attention into getting ready? What would that say about her affection towards her future husband? If you and the believers around you are the Bride of Christ, what are you doing to prepare for that wedding banquet with the Lord?
For most of us, the majority of our time is focused on taking care of our physical needs and wants. Food, clothing, shelter, health, security, comfort, hobbies... Even our prayer life can get bogged down and center on only those things. Pastor Dion warns us today that we can get off track if that is all we are looking to, and that Satan's trap is baited with all of those things. When the going gets tough, would you be willing to die, or will you bow to the granter of temporary satisfaction?
As a believer in Jesus Christ, you have an ultimate peace that you can rest in which is knowing where you will go when your time on earth comes to an end. In today's message, Pastor Dion will be talking more about this, and also about how the last days will play out. It tells us in the Bible that when we become absent from our bodies, that we will become present with the Lord. There is no better feeling than knowing that one day we will reside with our Father in Heaven.
There's a good chance that at some point in your life, you have prepared for some kind of major event. It may have been a storm coming through or maybe a big change in your life. In today's message, Pastor Dion tells us that in the same way we prepare for those kinds of things, we also need to be prepared for the return of the Lord. We do not know when it will happen; therefore, each and every day we must live in such a way that we are spiritually ready for when Jesus comes back.
All of us have a legal record. Depending on some of the choices we've made in life some of us have clean records, and some of us have records that aren't so clean. But what about God's record of us? In today's message, Pastor Dion will be talking about how Jesus keeps no records of wrongs. In fact, He tells us that if we repent of our sins and ask Him to forgive us that our mistakes and failures are COMPLETELY wiped away and unseen in the eyes of Jesus.
Salvation from Jesus is easily the best and most rewarding gift that one could possibly receive on earth, but where do we go after we receive our salvation? In today's message, Pastor Dion is going to be talking about how things don't just stop after we are saved. Moving forward, we are called to grow and mature as Christians into the faith, and in doing so we become more Christ-like. This is done through community, reading into His word, and deliberate prayer.
Before sending Jesus to the cross, Pontius Pilate offered to release a Hebrew prisoner. The Jewish leaders, set on killing Jesus, called for the release of a murderous insurrectionist named Barabbas instead of the innocent Jesus. In effect, Jesus died in place of Barabbas. But Pastor Dion explains today that Jesus also died in our place. The story of Barabbas mirrors our story. Though we are the ones who earned condemnation through our sins, Jesus took the punishment on Himself so we don’t have to.
Today, Pastor Dion walks us through God’s grace for sinners throughout the story of Scripture. From the beginning – when Adam and Eve first sinned – God provided a substitute for their punishment. God showed mercy on Adam and Eve and killed an animal in their place, even though they were the ones who deserved death. This theme is repeated throughout the Bible, as God constantly rescues and forgives His people. And the ultimate sacrifice took place when Jesus gave His life for us.
Jesus, being God, chose to live as a human and to suffer firsthand the tragedy of living in a world broken by sin. It can be easy to forget the humanity of Jesus, that He really did experience life the same as all of us do. Pastor Dion reminds us today that Jesus faced the same hardships, challenges, and emotions that we face. Yes, He is fully God. But that doesn’t mean His life on earth was any easier. He chose to live like any other human, and as a result, we have confidence that He can relate to us.
At first glance, the New Testament may seem to have very little to do with the Old Testament. But upon further study, it becomes clear that the whole story is about Jesus. This is what Pastor Dion points out today – God has revealed Himself to humanity through Jesus Christ. As He taught His disciples, Jesus made it clear that the Law and the Prophets spoke of Him, and that He was with the Father since the beginning. If we want to know the true God, the Creator of all things, we must look to Jesus.
The Bible describes many attributes of God – we know that He is loving and merciful, and good. But today, Pastor Dion points out the attribute of God that is mentioned more than any other in the Bible – His holiness. And holiness has a couple of meanings; for one, it speaks of God’s separateness – that He is set apart from all others, and is higher. But the word “holy” also speaks to God’s sinlessness. Our God is totally unique in the universe that He created. And unlike us, He is absolutely good and does no sin.
God is the author of all life. Pastor Dion reminds us today of God’s amazing creation of the world. But not only does God create new life, but He also resurrects what was dead. For example, in the Old Testament, God resurrected Sarah’s barren womb and Moses’ lifeless staff. In the New Testament, God demonstrated His resurrection power by raising Jesus back to life! And with Jesus’ resurrection comes the promise that we, too, will one day experience bodily resurrection in a world without sin and death!
As Pastor Dion discusses what God is like today, he reminds us how good and powerful God is. But this raises the question: if God is in control, why do bad things still happen? Pastor Dion acknowledges that we live in a broken world stained by the sin of humans. But he also reminds us that God is with us through all our suffering. While bad things are inevitable on this side of eternity, God will not leave or forsake His children! Furthermore, He will actually take all of those bad things that happen and work them for good!
As Pastor Dion teaches about the attributes of God today, he emphasizes that God is like no other. God is utterly unique, and He alone is in power. The devil is not equal and opposite to God; God is far more powerful than Satan will ever be. Contemplating the absolute greatness and wisdom of God can be frightening. And yet, our God chooses to love us! If we have given our life to Christ, these truths about our God don’t need to scare us. Instead, they can be an encouragement, because our mighty God is good.
The Bible tells us exactly what God's character is like. But God doesn't want us to stop there. He wants us to continually seek Him so that we may have a deep, personal, and intimate relationship with Him. But what does that look like? How can you have such a powerful relationship with an invisible creator? Pastor Dion puts it this way: Today, we must seek God continually. As we pursue Him, He will draw close to us. God is ready to embrace you with open arms, will you accept His embrace?
To deny the existence of God is a matter of rebellion. Coming to the conclusion that God doesn't exist simply doesn't make sense once you begin to consider the complexity of creation. From the interworkings of all living organisms to the endless expanse of space, there is too much going on for a reality without God to even be possible. In today's message, Pastor Dion tackles the question: does God exist? In doing so, he hopes to help you better understand why Christians believe what we believe.
The biggest disease among humanity today is sin. Because of the fall of Eden, we are naturally prone to sin, which, as you can imagine, is not what God wants for our lives. To restate the point Pastor Dion was making, unsaved people are under the control of Satan himself. That's a terrifying thought! If you have asked Jesus into your heart, you have been rescued from the grasp of Satan. Do you have friends or family who doesn't know the Lord today? What can you do to lead them to safety in the kingdom of God?
Our wickedness has separated us from God. There's no way to sugarcoat it. Immediately after the first sin in the Garden of Eden, humanity was destined to be forever plagued by sin. This still holds true today, but through his message, Pastor Dion wants us to know that we have a secret weapon to fight back with. That weapon is Jesus! He was sent to earth by God to die for our sins, and because of His sacrifice, we no longer have to be apart from God. That's fantastic news!
One of the most well-known words that Christians use is fellowship. The Bible contains numerous victories of faith when friends are involved. Before entering Corinth, the apostle Paul needed friends that would encourage him throughout this mission. Today, Pastor Dion answers the question: can you do Christianity alone? The Bible states that one may be defeated, two can defend themselves, but a cord of three strands is not easily broken. You, God, and who could be your third strand today?
Whenever we hear stories of great faith in the Bible, it may be easy for us to label the characters as superheroes. Although, the Apostle Paul was human just like us - with flaws and insecurities. The real superhero is the Holy Spirit. For us, sometimes the excuses are too many to count. Yet, the Bible says there is a great cloud of witnesses cheering us on, as well as the Holy Spirit preparing the way before us. Pastor Dion encourages us today to not let timidity win, but let Christ shine through!
This might be basic, but it has to be emphasized - "God so loved the WORLD!" (not just one specific people group). You can come from any walk of life and still be a Christian. Paul's mission was not only to reach the Jews with the knowledge of Christ's resurrected but also the Gentiles. Pastor Dion shows us in today's scripture that Paul did exactly that in his latest expedition. Jesus is for all people. Look around you - is there someone that doesn't fit the world's mold that could know about Jesus today?
How's your workout routine? Everywhere you look and even around the corner, you'll find a fitness center to work out your body. These public gyms have certain tools to work the specific muscles in your body. Being a part of a church and even a tight-knit group of believers can help you work out your SPIRITUAL muscles. Pastor Dion urges that a faith that is strong is one that constantly seeks out ways to grow in Christ. As you listen, exercise your faith and ask God to show you what areas need work today.
One of Paul's most important challenges was to bring the truth of the gospel to the Jewish people first, then the Gentiles. Paul visited many synagogues in his lifetime and there was no better feeling than the realization that Jesus was truly the Messiah the Jewish people were constantly praying for. Pastor Dion calls it the "aha" moment for the Jewish people when Paul revealed the Old Testament prophecies come to fruition in the life of Jesus. Today, how is God giving you that "aha" moment with Him?
God is always working behind the scenes. Yet sometimes he likes to take center stage for those around to see how powerful He truly is! Pastor Dion reiterates the ministry of Paul and Silas and how one night in jail changed a family's life forever. God is a game-changer! He's in the business of turning lives completely around to know the joy of eternal life. God turns suffering and shackles into salvation. Today, not only wants to do that for you but for those around you that need the life-saving message of a Savior.
No one likes to go through suffering. In his final words to his disciples, Jesus also reminded them they would go through tribulations in His name. However, Pastor Dion offers a new way of thinking when you travel through a season of suffering. What if what you are going through today is for the testimony of another? Could those around you need to see how you praise in the middle of a storm? As it says in scripture, the Holy Spirit is always working in the midst. Are you ready to be used for His glory?
What would be your first reaction when the devil comes against you? Paul and Silas, at the height of their ministry, found themselves chained up in a prison cellar. They could have shouted curses to God. Pastor Dion emphasizes that instead, they raised the roof with PRAISE! There are many reactions to the storms of life that we come up against, but what if our first reaction to the rain clouds were to praise the King over those clouds? Today, it's time for a reset in the middle of our storms.
Have you ever been annoyed with someone? Maybe a close friend or family member? Let’s be honest sometimes we can even get annoyed with people inside the church! In today’s message, Pastor Dion will remind us to direct our frustration toward the source! In this life, we have an adversary who is against us. He will try everything to get us off track and off God! However, We have the assurance from God that Satan doesn’t win in the end, and that God is fighting for us!
One of the hardest things for people to understand when it comes to the Gospel is the fact that we don’t have to earn salvation. Have you ever had a hard time receiving a gift? A lot of people in Jesus’ time were trying to earn their salvation and the thought of having it for free was beyond them. In today’s message, Pastor Dion will share how when we are recipients of God’s grace, it is something that he is proud of and can show off! It is the fact that we can’t do anything ourselves that makes God so much greater!
Some of the signs of having a heart change are the ways in which the Lord changes our behavior. We become softer, and gentler, and display more fruit of the spirit. However, another sure sign that God is changing our hearts is the desire for us to share the truth of Jesus with other people! In Today’s Message, Pastor Dion will be sharing stories of the people who encountered Jesus. They experienced Jesus' transformational love and then went to tell everyone they know about him!
Paul was carrying a lot of momentum on his missionary journey. He was going hard and fast and didn’t want to slow down! However, God introduced him to Timothy, a young man who desired to be grown, mentored, discipled, and strengthened in the Lord. The story of Paul and Timothy’s relationships is a great reminder that we as Christians are not supposed to figure this life out on our own! In today's message, Pastor Dion will be teaching about the heart change Paul had to lead to this relationship!
Do you ever feel like you're on God's back burner because you don't have everything perfectly in line in your life? You'll be relieved to hear that God's not looking for perfection! He's looking for an open heart and a willing spirit to work hard for His glory. Yes, you'll make mistakes along the way. Yes, you'll hurt people along the way, but if you're humble and can admit when you're wrong, God can do big things through you! Today, in his message, Pastor Dion reminds us to keep our eyes focused on God!
Do you ever feel like because you have the title 'Christian' that you automatically behave perfectly, never mess up and will always treat people perfectly? Turns out you still live in a fallen and sinful world, but you've been given the Holy Spirit to help you navigate the difficulties of life on this side of paradise. Today, in his message, Pastor Dion reminds us that we're still sinners just like everyone else on this planet. We're going to make mistakes, but everyday is a new day, and it's a gift from God!
Do you sometimes think the free gift of salvation is too good to be true? That there's got to be a catch somewhere that says you owe something or that you need to be doing more of something or less of something? That's how most things in the world around us work, but that sets being a Christian apart from everything else. It doesn't cost us ANYTHING!!! All God wants is our trust. Today, in his message, Pastor Dion points us to this fantastic, free gift that's there for the taking!
A free gift is truly a fantastic thing to think about, isn't it? Have you ever been given a 100% free gift? How incredible and generous of the giver! A life-changing FREE gift is offered to you and me daily in our broken-down lives full of failure. The free gift of life. Jesus paid for this free gift with His own life so that He could be with you for eternity and save you from a future of torment and separation from Him. Today, Pastor Dion reminds us of this unique reality that we have!
Did you know that all believers have something in common? And no, it is not just that we believe in God. In today’s edition of The Simple Truth, Pastor Dion talks about how all believers have the Holy Spirit. Once we accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior, the Holy Spirit moves in. The Holy Spirit becomes a part of us believers. Because of this, the Lord is always with us. He will always take care of us. When we are in a hard trial, we have the Holy Spirit. Nothing that stands against us will defeat us.
What is the best way to share the Gospel? In today’s edition of The Simple Truth, Pastor Dion talks about how the transformed life of a believer is the best way to share the Gospel. When we accepted Jesus into our lives, we are transformed. We’re now the example of what Christ is. People don’t need to hear the Gospel story to see that our lives have been changed when they see us. When we turn to Christ, people will ask questions about why we act differently, which allows us to share the Gospel.
What happens after you become a believer? You’ve recognized your sin, asked for forgiveness, and then accepted Jesus into life, but now what? In today’s message, Pastor Dion talks about how after we are believers, we become disciples. Believers are those who have accepted Jesus, and disciples are those who are students of Jesus and evangelize, who go out and share God’s goodness. After we believe, we are called to become Disciples of God. We are born again into a believer, but we are made disciples.
What is your natural reaction to being in an uncomfortable situation? Is it to try to find a way out of it? In today’s edition of The Simple Truth, Pastor Dion talks about how the Lord will put us in uncomfortable situations. It is so easy to get comfortable being surrounded by believers, but there will be times when you’re the minority. As we follow Him and spread the Gospel, we will be put into awkward circumstances. God will never put you in a situation you cannot handle, so put your trust in Him, and He will provide.
Have you ever thought about what happens after you accept Jesus? You completed the first steps, confessing your sins and asking for Jesus to be your Savior, but what’s next? In today’s message, Pastor Dion discusses how salvation is more than just accepting Jesus. Your salvation needs to be nurtured throughout your life. You do this by attending church, surrounding yourself with other believers, and spending time in His word. Once you accept Jesus, you need to grow in your relationship with Him.
Has your past ever come back to haunt you? Has your previous sinful nature created a barrier for you to share Christ? In today’s message, Pastor Dion discusses how God changes people’s lives. Jesus’ blood transforms every single person. He takes your old sinful nature and replaces it with something new. If your past has made it difficult to share the gospel, don’t give up. Jesus died for you; He has transformed your life. Take your past and use it in your testimony to show others that God can save anyone.
The world is full of sinful people. How did something so perfectly created by God turn into a sinful world? Have you ever thought about if God is so good, why is there evil in the world? Today Pastor Dion discusses how God can still be a good God with sin in the world. People choose for themselves to not believe in God. God does not condemn sinful people to hell. He came to save the world. Jesus freely gave us an out through His life, death, and resurrection. He desires for us to have a relationship with Him.
Temptations to choose the world over God can be powerful. But have you ever thought about how your relationship with Jesus has transformed your life? In today’s message, Pastor Dion discusses how Barnabas’ life changed when he came to know Jesus. Worldly possessions may temporarily fill your desires, but nothing will fulfill your life like Jesus. Only He can achieve the needs of our lives. Will you be tempted? Absolutely, even Jesus was tempted. Put your eyes on Jesus, and He will satisfy your needs.
You have freedom, future, and promise in Jesus Christ! In today's message from Pastor Dion, he shares with you the importance of keeping your eyes fixed on Jesus. He is the Author and Finisher of your faith. The enemy will always try to discourage you and throw obstacles in your way. He doesn't want the message of salvation going out. But Pastor Dion urges you, to stay focused on Jesus. He will destroy all of the obstacles that Satan tries to put in your way. Keep trusting Jesus.
Does Satan have you behind bars? As you listen to today's message from Pastor Dion, he teaches you about those who have been persecuted for the faith. Satan will always do whatever he can to attack and silence those that are citizens of Heaven. He doesn't want the Gospel Message going throughout the world. So, Pastor Dion explains, that the enemy will do all he can to put you behind bars. Whether that be actual bars, bars of anxiety, or insecurity. Keep shining your light for Jesus and His Gospel.
Do you realize that a servant is no greater than its Master? In today's message from Pastor Dion, he shares with you that if the Son of God was persecuted, why should you expect that as His follower you won't be? Jesus says in His Word, that in this life you will encounter various trials and hardships. However, you're to take heart because Jesus has overcome the world. Pastor Dion encourages you, to hold onto this promise in Jesus. You have complete victory in Him. Keep trusting in Him when you feel persecuted.
What is the goal of the church body? As you listen to today's message from Pastor Dion, he explains to you that the priority of the church body is to be more like Jesus. To have a body of believers united in becoming like Jesus, serving Jesus, and worshiping Jesus. Pastor Dion encourages you, that this is also the goal of every follower of Jesus Christ. “Christians” originally meant “little Christs.” How can you take the opportunity that you have on this earth to become more like Jesus? Would anyone know that you follow Him?
Have you ever thought of sharing the gospel, only to find it too intimidating to try? You wouldn’t be the first! In today’s message, Pastor Dion speaks about the Apostle Paul sharing the gospel with the Gentiles. And, how his God-given ability to do so; inspired the people of Antioch to do the same! God allowed his messengers to do incredible things, even when they doubted him! Moses doubted his deliverance, Abraham doubted his wife, and Mary doubted her pregnancy. If God is with you, why do you doubt him?
In today’s message, Pastor Dion talks about how Peter and the Disciples shared the gospel with some of the most resilient groups of non-believers. At first; the disciples were worried that the people wouldn’t listen to them. But when you think about it; that means that the Disciples were doubting God himself, because He was the one instructing them to share the Word in the first place! It’s easy to be scared of sharing the gospel with people if we think they’ll be angry, but should we believe in people or God?
Crazy to think that an ancient seaport would lead to the entire world hearing about Christianity! There were so many pieces that fell perfectly into place so that the Gospel message would reach the world. In today's message, Pastor Dion teaches about how God perfectly orchestrated the Gospel to reach the Gentiles. The message of Jesus was never meant to stay in Israel instead it was meant to reach the ends of the earth. God loved you so much that he made sure that YOU received his offer of good news.
Ouch! The Jewish hatred for the Gentiles was intense! Gentiles were all of the people who weren't Jewish. In today's message, Pastor Dion teaches about how God carefully orchestrated the Gospel message to reach the Gentiles despite the Jewish opposition. There were many factors that lined up perfectly to make it possible for Gentiles to receive the good news. The Gospel is meant for EVERYONE. Jesus lived, died, and rose again so that anyone who believes in him will have eternal life.
Have you been living in a “bunker of fear”? Do you let your insecurities, worries, and excuses hold you back from partnering with God's kingdom work? In today's message, Pastor Dion teaches from the book of Acts about how Peter was living in a bunker of fear and how Jesus made a way out for him. When Peter stopped living in fear he was able to do amazing work, bringing the message of the kingdom to many people. What fears are holding you back today? Step out in faith, trusting Jesus with them.
Have you been developing a BIG BUT?! Perhaps yours is, “But I am not equipped,” or “But there is someone who can do it better.” In today's message, Pastor Dion explains that these “Buts” develop out of fear and they hold you back from all that God has for you. Today you will hear about the times when the disciple Peter was living out of fear and how Jesus helped him to overcome it. Take an honest look at all of the excuses you have for why you are not moving forward in your faith. Let Jesus help.
Pastor Dion is teaching from the desert in New Mexico, but there are many deserts in life. There are physical deserts, but there are also emotional deserts. Have you ever been there? Where life has lost all its allure and you're just barely making it day by day? Saul spent time in the desert after his dramatic conversion. He used the time to soak up God's word, and he let the word ignite a fire in him that would carry him through the hardest times. If you're in the desert today, soak up God's work and let it ignite you!
Stop a minute and take a look at the road you're on. Can you see where it leads? Is it a place you want to go? Maybe it leads to broken relationships or a broken life. Maybe it leads to addiction. Pastor Dion tells us today that Jesus is still asking the same question he asked Saul on the road to Damascus. He's asking you today, “Why are you fighting me?” Why are you fighting Jesus? The road he has chosen for you leads to wholeness and life. It leads to a life filled with love. Stop fighting him today.
Pastor Dion tells us today that Saul was under new management. The old Saul would kill and imprison Christians, but the new Saul was a new man. He would go on to be beaten and imprisoned himself for following Christ and refusing to be quiet about it. How about you? Are you headed down the wrong path? Is it time for you to turn over management of your life to someone new? Turn to Jesus and give your life to him. He'll take it and make something great—something you would never expect!
Jesus' mission was clear while he was here on the earth. His purpose was to bring hope to the hopeless. To find the sick and heal them. And there was nothing that could ever stand in his way. As Pastor Dion said, he went to the dirty places, the scary places. He went everywhere he needed to go in order to bring life and light to the people who needed it most. Maybe it's time to follow his example. There are dark, dirty, desolate places where people desperately need Jesus. Time to be his feet!
No matter the amount of time that we've been a believer and followers of Christ, it can be easy for us to forget the nature of our salvation. It's not that we decided one day that we'd clean up our act and seek God, but rather that God drew us to Him out of the divine appointment. As Pastor Dion discusses in his message today, God draws us to Him by planting a thirst within us. In his study, you'll learn how this thirst within unites us with God in tandem with the work of The Holy Spirit.
Have you ever thought about what it would be like to witness the birth of The Church front and center? Over a thousand years of Judaism being flipped on its head and the myriad of cultures that believe in multiple gods being told there's One God? In today's message, Pastor Dion reflects on both the great joys and challenges that were rapidly spreading from Jerusalem. In his study, you'll gain a better understanding of how God's plan all along was for the Gospel of Christ to spread far and wide, rather than stay in Israel.
Learn by example. Follow the good ones. Do you agree? The apostles landed in Samaria due to fear of losing their lives. This area was avoided by religious leaders of the day because of its sinful behavior. What happened was the result of a heart on fire for others to know the life-saving gift of Jesus! Joy unspeakable. Lives forever changed. And genuine happiness is found only in the friendship of God. Be like the Samaritan people. Turn completely around and don't walk the path of your previous days.
Today's message is simple. Pastor Dion's explanation of how God's Word spread throughout the world was scary for the apostles at the time, BUT yielded such an amazing outcome! He then outlines several people from the Bible that were up against what looked like really BAD situations. Turned GOOD because that's what God does! Philip was a man who escaped to Samaria with a plan in mind, but it didn't match up with God's. This city was a place that had long ago rejected God's call to come back to Him.
The phrase too good to be true is kind of a downer, isn't it? With that in mind, think of this. There were good things happening in the early church that was true because the disciples were on fire in their quest to share Jesus' love. AND Satan was trying to DESTROY it, be a downer about it if you will. Through deflection and division. Pastor Dion explains today what was happening and not happening within the church. Friends, ALL of us have a purpose in life. We can be a part of something life-saving or life-sucking.
As teachers, there's always something we want students to learn more than anything else. It's no different when Jesus told his friends to love like He does and to share His truth. Satan doesn't like this. AT ALL. He'll use many different methods to try to thwart the good that's happening as Pastor Dion informs us today. Trials. Persecution. Discouragement. What you DO through these kinds of times and situations is what matters the MOST! Will you have the backbone to say what others desperately need to hear?
When you feel the conviction of the Holy Spirit, what do you do with it? Pastor Dion, in his message today, says, that it isn't always fun when the Lord deals with you about your sin. Hebrews Chapter Twelve tells us that the discipline of our Father, isn't pleasant, yet, it will yield the peaceable fruit of righteousness, if we submit to His hand of correction. Keep in mind that God loves you, and EVERYTHING He does is for your good. You prove that you're a child of God when you submit to Him.
Pastor Dion is excited today, about what it means to be born again. Here's the amazing thing about it. Before you were born again, supernaturally, by the power of the Holy Spirit, you were in a different family. You were descended from Adam, and your inheritance was the curse of sin and death. But, because your spirit is revived, you have a different Father. He is God! Yes! And your brother is Jesus. That means your inheritance is the same as Jesus has inherited. In Jesus, YOU WILL NEVER DIE!
God has provided all that we need for our journey of faith - to walk victoriously. But, if you don't do your part, it won't be effective in your life. You need to listen to Pastor Dion, today, as he tells you that you must immerse yourself in Jesus. That means integrating, with the body of Christ, being built up by your brothers and sisters, and being used to build them up. Praying continually, and feeding upon the Word of God. By doing this, the devil loses any advantage, he might have on you.
Salvation is a free gift from God, of that there is no doubt. But, today, Pastor Dion says, get ready. Because there is a price to pay for accepting that free gift. Jesus said you must count the cost. It can cost a lot in your life, in the here and now. But, the reward far outweighs the cost. Yes, some may turn away from you, and mock you. They did that to Jesus, first. It might cost you your prestige, or even your job. Count the cost. Is the reward of everlasting life, worth the cost of losing worldly things?
You can do much to protect yourself from hard situations, even to the point of physically shutting yourself away from the world. But this can’t protect you from your own negative thoughts and anxieties. Today, on the Simple Truth, Pastor Dion examines what Jesus hoped to impart to his followers before returning to His Father. After reminding them of his constant presence, Jesus calmed their spiritual and emotional anxieties by giving them His peace. Only God’s Peace settles souls and provides real rest.
It’s startling that even when surrounded by lots of people, you can feel totally alone: unknown and unprotected. Well, in today’s message, Pastor Dion teaches that after Jesus was resurrected, He intentionally made his presence known to his Disciples. He was reminding them that He would never leave them, that He’s always there. And Jesus, says Pastor Dion, wants you to know the same thing: that no matter what your circumstances or situation, God is near and He cares.
Being grateful changes your perspective and can change your entire life. Mary Magdalene exemplifies this. In today’s edition of The Simple Truth, Pastor Dion shares that when Jesus cast out the demons that possessed her, the entire focus of Mary’s life changed. She was so grateful for what Jesus had done for her that she became a faithful follower. Pastor Dion teaches that Mary always remembered how Jesus had rescued her and she responded in love and service to him and others.
What do you do when you’re sick? You may try your own remedies for a while but when you get really bad, you most likely see a doctor for help. In today’s teaching, Pastor Dion reminds us that Jesus is the doctor for our souls. He didn’t come for the healthy but the sick. To Jesus, it doesn’t matter how bad or good you are, you need His healing work in your life. Pastor Dion teaches that like Nicodemus, the prominent leader, and the thief on the cross, Jesus wants to rescue everyone.
You, like most people, may have some kind of guilty pleasure that you don’t tell many people about because you might be afraid of what others will think. Maybe you’re unsure of what they’ll say or do, maybe you’re just embarrassed. Nicodemus and Joseph could relate. In today’s teaching, Pastor Dion tells us about how, for a time, these 2 members of the Sanhedrin secretly believed that Jesus was the Son of God but were too afraid to openly follow him. At some point, though, they, like you, had to make a stand.
You’ve probably done it: ran around your house frantically cleaning things up before company came over. Why? Because you want to seem put together and responsible. You want people to think well of you. In today’s teaching, Pastor Dion says that you don’t need to do this with God. When Jesus died on the cross, the necessity to follow certain rules and participate in rituals died with Him. What you do or don’t do doesn’t matter. Jesus implores you to come as you are, mess and all, so you can find rest.
Today, Pastor Dion continues in Luke 23 as you study the last hours before Jesus dies on the cross. He reminds you that when the cross comes rumbling into your life you have a choice to make. Like Simon, the thief on the cross, and the Centurian, will you admit that you don’t have it all together, that you’ve made so many mistakes, and ask God to forgive you? Or will you continue to try to make life work on your own terms, experiencing none of the freedom and joy that God offers?
Today, Pastor Dion continues in Luke 23 as you study the last hours before Jesus dies on the cross. He reminds you that when the cross comes rumbling into your life you have a choice to make. Like Simon, the thief on the cross, and the Centurian, will you admit that you don’t have it all together, that you’ve made so many mistakes, and ask God to forgive you? Or will you continue to try to make life work on your own terms, experiencing none of the freedom and joy that God offers?
Do you think it’s possible to love someone while stepping back to let them make choices that will cause them pain or suffering? God does this for you. He has given you the freedom to choose how you want to live and who you want to live for and will step back if you choose not to follow Him. As Pastor Dion teaches today, you can see this unfold with the Jewish leaders. Jesus spoke to them many times about their hypocrisy, pride, and mistreatment of others, but they refused to bend, so Jesus stopped talking.
Can you imagine willingly choosing to undergo tremendous suffering and torture in the place of someone who hated you, your greatest enemy? That is essentially what Jesus did for you. Today on the Simple Truth, Pastor Dion continues unpacking the last days before Jesus went to the cross. As you pick up in Luke 23, Jesus is being framed by the Jewish ruling body for crimes he didn’t commit. Jesus knows fully what is to come, the pain and humiliation he will have to endure but he presses on for your sake.
Imagine you are standing before a judge after being accused of a crime you didn’t commit. The judge, who thinks you are innocent, gives you the opportunity to go free. Of course, you would gratefully accept. But that is not what Jesus did. As Pastor Dion points out in today’s teaching, Jesus had several opportunities to stop what the Jewish leaders were doing to him. But Jesus knew that His death on the cross was the only way to redeem the people he loves, so he chose to stay and give up his life.
When you think back to the hardest thing you’ve ever done, what kept you from giving up? What made you keep going in the face of great difficulty? As you will hear today, Pastor Dion teaches that it was you that kept Jesus going as he prepared to face his death on the cross. Knowing that his sacrifice was the only way for you to have the chance to be right with God motivated Jesus to endure the suffering of his crucifixion. It was worth it to Him because He loves you and wants a relationship with you.
In this modern world, not many people use paper maps to get where they need to, but they still need something to give them direction. In today’s teaching, Pastor Dion implores you to follow God’s direction for your life. He has given you the Bible and the Holy Spirit for direction and inspiration, but you have to choose to listen so that you know God’s will. If you don’t share His vision, you will end up confused and insecure, which will lead to you making poor choices that can mire you in shame and guilt.
Predictable. It might not a word that you would choose to use to describe yourself. However, in today’s teaching from Luke chapter 22, Pastor Dion suggests that being predictable is actually a positive character trait that was modeled by Jesus. He teaches that Jesus was dependable, that people knew what to expect of him and knew what he stood for. Pastor Dion suggests that you should strive to live in the same way, with integrity and transparency, letting your values shape your life.
When life feels hard and overwhelming what do you do? Where do you go to find the resources you need to get through? Do you go to food? The distraction of entertainment? Alcohol? Self-help books? Today, as Pastor Dion continues in Luke, Jesus is in the Garden of Gethsemane, overwhelmed with what he knows is coming. But Jesus knew that he needed to run to God for help because He is the only real source of rescue. It’s only in God that you can find true help and hope.
Sometimes it feels like you just can’t catch a break. It’s one thing after the other and it’s all you can do to just keep going. Well, Jesus experienced this too. In the hours before he was arrested Jesus was overwhelmed with anguish and struggle. In today’s study of Luke 22, Pastor Dion reveals how Jesus was able to make it through that time of despair and temptation- He turned to His Father. Jesus prayed. He begged God for help and God gave Jesus what he needed: strength, hope, and encouragement.
It’s a common thing to cram before a big test or stay up late working to meet a deadline. As you will hear on today’s edition of The Simple Truth, Pastor Dion tells you that Jesus knew the deadline of his death was quickly approaching and he was doing all he could to prepare his disciples for the hardships they would face. Jesus knew they needed reformed hearts and restored lives to be able to endure it all. He called them to be ready for opposition from the Enemy and to humbly serve others.
If you have ever moved, you know the tremendous amount of work it takes to prepare your home in order to make the transition go smoothly. Well, Jesus knew He was moving back to heaven and He wanted to prepare his disciples for what life was going to be like after he left. In today’s message, Pastor Dion shares how Jesus revealed his new plan of salvation in the upper room and then called the disciples to reflect on their inner lives. Pastor Dion encourages you also to give up your hidden struggles so that you can live in freedom with the Lord.
You’ve heard the phrase “hindsight is 20/20.” It’s usually related to the idea that you can see more clearly looking back than you can looking forward. Well, in today’s message, Pastor Dion contends that Jesus can see just as clearly looking forward and will warn you when you are headed down a destructive path. Pastor Dion says that Jesus hopes that these warnings will cause you to reflect on your choices and change your direction, sparing you from suffering and a break in your relationship with Him.
When you were a child, making friends was easy. But as you grow older, you may find that you have to be more intentional about developing your friendships. There are so many obstacles to creating deep, lasting relationships. As Pastor Dion teaches today, Jesus knows this and consistently paves the way to intimacy with Him. He desires to have a deep relationship with you and works to create a place of revelation, reflection, and reformation so that you can grow in your walk with Him.
Remember when you were a kid you could just say “do-over” when you made a mistake and you could try it again? It’s not that easy as an adult. Grownups don’t often get a lot of do-overs and our consequences are usually a bit bigger. Today on The Simple Truth, Pastor Dion tells us that God is going to give the Jews, His chosen people, a do-over, a second chance to choose Him and to be His representatives to the world. They will have the opportunity to fulfill God’s original plan for their lives in relationship with Him.
Have you ever felt unprepared to accomplish the task you’ve been asked to do? Like you just don’t know enough or have the right skills to do what you need to? As Pastor Dion explains in today’s teaching, God had a big plan for the Jews, His chosen people. He wanted them to be His representatives to the World. And God gave them everything they needed to accomplish this. However, Pastor Dion explains, the Jews resented and rejected God’s gift because they wanted to go their own way, follow their own plan.
Being evaluated for your job can be nerve-racking. Well, in today’s edition of The Simple Truth, Pastor Dion walks us through the evaluations by the religious leaders that Jesus underwent. The leaders were trying to catch Jesus saying controversial things that would get him in trouble or even killed. Pastor Dion teaches that not only did Jesus sidestep the leader’s evil intentions by answering with wisdom and authority, but he used the opportunity to declare his divinity as the Messiah.
All throughout the Bible, you can read passages about taking care of those who are weak or marginalized, like orphans or widows. As you will hear in today’s teaching, Pastor Dion describes Jesus’ outrage over the abuse perpetrated by the religious leaders in the temple. The very people who should have been lovingly caring for those coming to the temple were literally robbing them for their own gain. Pastor Dion teaches that God judges those who abuse or take advantage of others.
Being a moral person who cares for those around you and being a good steward of what you’ve been given are very important. But those things will not make you right with God. Today, on The Simple Truth, Pastor Dion reminds you that a relationship with Jesus is the only way to be right with God. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Light. It’s good to be kind and do good things, but Jesus, Pastor Dion says, is the foundation of your salvation. And you decide whether you will accept His gift of grace or not.
You may have heard stories of people who claim to follow God taking advantage of others in different ways. What does God think about this? Does it matter to Him? Well, in today’s teaching, Pastor Dion says that God deeply cares about the injustice in the world and judges those who perpetrate it. He talks about Jesus’ reaction to the blatant injustice occurring in the temple. Jesus was so angry that he forced the merchants from the area, allowing those seeking God the ability to come freely to Him.
Distractions are everywhere. You are surrounded by a million different things that demand your time, attention, and emotion every day. How do these distractions affect your relationship with God? Today, on The Simple Truth, Pastor Dion teaches that Jesus, upon his arrival to Jerusalem, went to the temple again and cleared it out. He exhorts you to be intentional in the ongoing work of keeping your mind and heart clutter-free. If you don’t, you will be distracted and find yourself moving away from God.
How can you fully experience God’s presence in your life? How will deep change happen? In today’s message, Pastor Dion says these things will occur when you lay your life down at the feet of Jesus. Rescue and transformation take place when you choose to give up your grip on the things in your life that, though important, vie for the place God should hold in your heart. Pastor Dion teaches that just as the Jews laid their cloaks before Jesus, you need to surrender your life to Him.
Kindness is a buzzword right now. You find it printed on t-shirts, talked about on social media, and promoted in schools. But kindness is more than just a passing fad. It is part of God’s character. And, as Pastor Dion shares in today’s message, kindness is what draws you to God. Pastor Dion goes on to teach that God then initiates a connection with you and calls you by name. Finally, God creates deep lasting change in your life and gives you the freedom to be a brand new person.
It’s hard to get excited about doing things that don’t interest you. Sometimes you do them out of a sense of obligation or responsibility, but your heart is definitely not in it. Well, God does not want you to feel this way about a relationship with Him. Today, Pastor Dion shares that God makes you curious about Him and draws you to Himself through various people and circumstances. Not only that, but He also initiates a connection with you, erasing any doubt of His desire to be a central part of your life.
Like everyone else, you sometimes have voices in your mind that say you are not good enough, that you shouldn’t expect more, that you’re unlovable. This inner dialogue only serves to keep you far from the truth that you are overwhelmingly valuable to others and to God. Today, Pastor Dion lays out how to combat these voices and reach toward Jesus who wants to rescue you from the lies you believe. Pastor Dion exhorts you to be like the blind man on the road to Jerusalem who cried out for Jesus to heal him.
When you think of the universe and all that’s in it, you may feel small and insignificant. Well, that’s not what Jesus thinks of you. Today, Pastor Dion reminds you that Jesus had you on His mind when he went to Jerusalem. Jesus knew he was going to have to die as a substitute for your sins, but didn’t hesitate because you are worth it. Pastor Dion goes on to contrast two different responses to Jesus’ offer of salvation through grace and faith, revealing that only you decide how you’ll respond.
Everyone has favorites. You probably have a favorite restaurant, activity, and type of music. You may even have people you favor over others. Does God have favorites? Does He treat people differently? Today, in Pastor Dion’s teaching, you will learn that God welcomes everyone with open arms. He does not show favoritism to those who want a relationship with Him. However, God does pour out extra grace on those who serve Him with their hearts and lives by physically and spiritually blessing them.
What makes you right with God? Is it being a good person? Giving generously? Going to church? What can you do to experience God’s blessing? In today’s edition of The Simple Truth, Pastor Dion teaches that the Rich Young Ruler had these same questions. He desired right standing with God but wasn’t sure how to get it, so he went to Jesus for answers. As you’ll hear, Jesus responds that it is grace and faith that makes you right with God, not your performance.
There are always things you would like to change about yourself or your life. Some of these goals are easily attained, but deep, transformational change requires God’s intervention. Today, Pastor Dion teaches that change will happen as you follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit, as you attend and engage in the Church, and as you read and absorb God’s Word. Engaging with these three aspects of your new life with God will help to sustain deep transformational change in your heart and in your life.
It’s normal to feel mired down by the unhealthy habits and patterns in your life and to wonder if things will ever change. As you’ll hear in today’s teaching, Pastor Dion explains that God’s hope for you starts with Salvation, but it doesn’t end there. God wants to build on the foundation of your new life by transforming you into a person more and more like Jesus. Pastor Dion teaches you this change doesn’t instantly happen overnight but is a steady process that will take the rest of your life.
There are times in your life when you will feel hopeless - like things are never going to change. But that’s not true if you have a relationship with God. As Pastor Dion reminds us today, God has a future and a hope in mind for you. This includes a new life that begins when you accept His gift of salvation through His death on the cross. Salvation, as Pastor Dion teaches, is not just for your future, but also removes the guilt and shame of your past choices and changes the reality of your present life.
Parenting is simultaneously one of the greatest privileges and most difficult challenges you can experience. As a parent, you provide for your child’s needs, often at great cost to yourself, because you have a vision for his or her future. Well, you are God’s child. He has provided for you and has a vision for your future. Listen today as Pastor Dion reveals some of that vision, starting with experiencing a new life and a new start through the Salvation that comes through Jesus Christ’s death on the cross.
When you hear stories of Christ's second coming it's easy to be afraid. Pastor Dion declares in his message today to just cry out to your Lord and Savior for peace. At the moment you cry out, God will provide comfort. In fact, you should ask boldly and with confidence knowing that the Lord longs to comfort His children. So don't live in fear, cling to the promise that the Lord hears your every cry and has good plans for your life. With the peace of Christ eagerly anticipate his second coming.
When Jesus declared he was not here to be a conquering King, many people were angry and denied he was the Messiah. Christ's first visit was instead to establish a spiritual kingdom, as Pastor Dion explains in his message today. Without Jesus' first visit, as a suffering Savior, we would have little hope for a relationship with his Father. Christ knew we would long for him to come again, and he will during The Second Coming. Believers around the world have been eagerly waiting for this appointed time. At this time Christ will come to deliver judgment.
Out of the 10 lepers that Jesus cured only, one came back to thank Jesus. This man teaches us to embrace Christ with gratitude. Instead of asking for more, or complaining that the blessing didn't come fast enough, choose appreciation. Today, Pastor Dion shares how gratitude can change your life. When you thank the Lord for all He has given you, you will experience peace, confidence, and assurance. Chose today to stop complaining and instead celebrate all that the Lord has given you.
Pastor Dion will encourage you in his message today that God's word is alive and powerful. As His child, you are called to walk in faithful obedience based on the promises found in Scripture. This can be hard when all you see are hardships and challenges. These are times when God's word is all you have to hang onto. This is when you must walk in faith whether you can see it, feel it, or like it. When you walk by faith and not by sight, God's promises become reality.
You've heard the parable of removing your eye if it's causing you to sin. As Pastor Dion explains today, this is not literal instruction. Your sin is deeper than that of your eyes. Instead consider cutting off your anger, short temper, or greed. These are the traits that don't create a good example for others. How can you let Jesus' light shine if the example you set for your friends is one of jealously? Ask for help, you'll need the power of the Holy Spirit to dissociate from your natural tendencies.
Today Pastor Dion shares with you in his message that a person demonstrating a good example is better than good advice. A Christian needs to ask themselves, who am I becoming? If the answer is not 'like Christ' then you need to make some character changes. Jesus encouraged his disciples to show traits of morality, integrity, mercy, forgiveness, love, and generosity. This can sound like a lot of work. Take heart, God doesn't demand perfection - instead, try to embrace one or two of Jesus' characteristics, and slowly you'll adopt His heart.
The Lord your God doesn't wish for any to perish. He does everything He can to have His children in Heaven with Him. But as Pastor Dion explains in today's study, if you don't accept His son as Lord and Savior, you leave God no choice but to send you to hell. If you chose to live a life of selfish disobedience you will not reap the rewards found in Heaven. Stop living your life for yourself and submit to the Lord's will for your life. Not only is his yoke light but it comes with an eternity of kingdom living.
Are you someone who fights Jesus' instruction and correction with pleas of justification and excesses? In today's study, Pastor Dion exhorts you not to ignore God's conviction. Your heavenly Father wants to change your attitude and behavior to mirror that of His son's heart. When you start to stray from God's plan He reprimands you to guide you back to His path. If you ignore His correction you might find yourself in bigger trouble. If you feel the Holy Spirit trying to correct you, give in and confess your sin.
Pastor Dion will remind you today in his message how easy it is to become greedy with the blessings of this life. God has gifted you with time, talent and money. He gave you these gifts for a reason, so don't try and cheat the Lord out of His investment. If you become greedy and use the Lord's resources for your benefit you will soon lose your peace, contentment, and security. These gifts are on loan from the Lord and you will be held accountable for your actions. Your behavior will indicate how God will bless you in the future, here on earth and in heaven.
God has blessed you with time, talent and treasure. This will look different for every believer, but we all have the same objective. Today, Pastor Dion shares in his message how you should use your resources to win souls and store up treasure in heaven. You will be held accountable for what the master has given you. Don't try to compare your good works with your neighbor because they were blessed differently and will be judged accordingly.
Many of us would probably agree that humbling ourselves in confession and apology to those we've wronged isn't always easy. In some cases, we can even be fearful that the person we've offended will respond in either rejection or retribution. However, as Pastor Dion will teach you in his message today, we as believers have no reason to be fearful when coming before The Father. In his study, you'll learn that rather than anger and wrath, we can be confident that God will respond with love and mercy.
The parable of the prodigal son is perhaps one of the most powerful illustrations of God's love and grace for His own. While many of us would struggle to forgive those who've wronged us to such a degree, God is both willing and quick to forgive. In today's message, Pastor Dion reflects on this supernatural forgiveness that God displays towards those who repent. In his study, you'll be reminded that not only are we forgiven in Christ as believers, but we're justified as though we've never sinned in the first place!
Many of us are rather quick to recognize an insincere apology from someone who's offended or hurt us in some way or another. This of course leads to a compromise in our trust for that person and often creates a barrier in that relationship. As Pastor Dion will teach you in his message today, we as believers are to be sincere in our repentance and sorrow over sin. In his study, you'll be reminded that one of the most important steps of repentance is acknowledging and admitting our guilt in the first place.
Have you ever struggled with patience and grace towards someone who simply refuses to turn from their wayward path? Perhaps you've even written that person off and come to the conclusion that you no longer want anything to do with them. While this is probably more common than we care to admit, Pastor Dion will teach you how our God aggressively seeks the lost. In his study, you'll learn about the many forms of alarms that God uses in order to turn us away from our sin and repent.
As believers and followers of Christ it can be extremely easy for us to become distracted and lose sight of just how amazing the Gospel truly is. Whether we're overwhelmed, experiencing hardship, or flat out suffering, we often struggle with maintaining a healthy perspective. As Pastor Dion will remind you in his message today, our God went through great lengths to bring us into His fold. In his study, you'll be reminded that not only did our God seek each and every one of us out, but He delights and rejoices in doing so.
All too often, you go to church and encounter the Spirit and truth of Jesus, but as soon as you leave, everything you’ve experienced is left there in the sanctuary. There’s a good chance that the next time you even think about Him will be 7 days later as you enter those doors again. As Pastor Dion challenges us in today’s message, it’s time to take Jesus with you. He longs for you to acknowledge and embrace His presence and involvement in your everyday life.