Life Love & You: Recent Episodes
Dr. Deano Graham
Join Dr. Deano Graham as he shares solid Bible teaching, inspirational stories, interviews with special guests, music, and global ministries. For more information, visit us at: globallifealliance.com or iamlifechurch.com.
Meet Presley Puig from southwest Missouri who is releasing her first bluegrass single "Bluegrass Rhymes". You will love her voice, as her refreshing delivery is so easy to enjoy. Find out more by following Presley on social media.
https://www.facebook.com/officialpresleymusic/
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Tim Batts is a singer/songwriter, a broadcasting radio DJ, and hosts his own successful podcast. Join in on our recent conversation which features his latest full-length project "Daddy's Truck", available on all digital streaming platforms.
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History and heritage naturally go hand in hand, and the desire to preserve the former is generally maintained by preserving the latter. Singer, songwriter and musician Marty Falle knows that all too well. His connection to the traditional music of Appalachia was spawned from spending much of his time after graduating from college living in Kentucky, the place where bluegrass was born. Now living on a farm in Eastern Kentucky, he’s thoroughly absorbed the music, culture and influences of that storied region, and in the process, made them his own.
Falle’s producer, Grammy winner Jonathan Yudkin, sums it up succinctly. “Marty seeks stories, history, legends, and paths in creativity… His fresh sound comes from the fact that he is not trying to emulate bluegrass bands of the past or present. Instead, he is creating his songs out of his love of music, unfettered by the influence of other artists. That’s what I enjoy the most about working with him. His songs are always unpredictable and surprising…”
That, then, is the essence of an artist who’s not only impacted by history and heritage, but one who effectively moves those foundations forward as well. He’s an Appalachian original and a dedicated contributor to Americana music in general.
martyfallemusic.com
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2022 SPBGMA International Band Contest Champions
Retro 78’s goal is to revisit and refresh some classic bluegrass music from the 70s and 80s while bringing a high-energy experience to the audience. The band is made up of powerhouse vocals and one of a kind musicianship.
For more information, visit retro78bluegrass.com.
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The Bible is filled with clues to provide us with greater revelation regarding our understanding of His written Word. Together, let's take a closer look at some of these clues.
Exodus 3:11-15, Genesis 1:1-5, Genesis 22:1-2, Genesis 4:6-12
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Olivia Jo is a versatile singer-songwriter whose roots lie in bluegrass and acoustic music, but have expanded into other genres. Her heartfelt lyrics—often derived from personal life experiences—and passionate vocals coincide to create an honest delivery. Olivia Jo’s 2015 country album, “Something Real Good", showcases her diverse songwriting abilities with 10 of her original songs, including the title track “Something Real Good,” a feel-good, bluesy number. In the following years, the artist released a few other country singles after releasing her country album that she wrote as well, continuing to explore the art of songwriting. However, Olivia Jo recently decided to take her career on a different, yet familiar path, where her love for music began.
For more information visit: oliviajomusic.com
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Enjoy our sit-down conversation with multi-instrumentalist Anthony Howell who is currently touring with the Edgar Loudermilk Band playing banjo.
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Highly regarded, as one of Bluegrass music’s most recognizable and finest high lead and tenor vocalist, Larry Stephenson has been headlining festivals and concerts for 30 years. He formed The Larry Stephenson Band in 1989 while living in his home state of Virginia.
Larry’s crystal-clear tenor voice has provided a musical home for some of the finest sidemen in contemporary bluegrass history. Many appearances on the Grand Ole Opry and RFD-TV has made The Larry Stephenson Band a fan favorite all across the US and Canada.
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Enjoy this delightful conversation with long time bluegrass enthusiasts and ambassadors Bill Warren and Pam Warren LIVE at the Evans Media Source, LLC The Palatka Bluegrass Festival.
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Best known as modern-day troubadours who carry the torch for traditional country music, The Malpass Brothers began singing and playing together professionally at a very young age. Alongside their dad, Chris Malpass Sr., the siblings performed at churches all over the southeast, but they continued to hone their traditional sound by working alongside and amongst the legends.
While Taylor finished high school, Chris began honing his songwriting skills, and working with steel guitar legend, Don Helms—an original member of the Drifting Cowboys. A few years later, he found himself on Merle Haggard’s bus, singing and performing for Merle on his 000 Martin guitar. Taylor, in the meantime, played lead guitar in a local band, and upon graduation, flew out to Redding, CA to join his brother as the opening act for Merle Haggard for the next seven years.
For more information visit themalpassbrothers.com
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Greg Blake - Winner of the 2023 IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year AwardJoin us in welcoming Greg Blake to the show today. You will enjoy this intimate look at one of the greatest gifts to the world of bluegrass.
You'll hear it in his voice immediately: the original strain of Appalachian mountain music that lies at the heart of all great modern bluegrass and country.
For more information, visit https://www.gregblakemusic.com
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Band leader and front man Alex MacClead shares with us one of the best kept secrets in the world of bluegrass. Meet Rock Hearts Bluegrass! https://rockheartsbluegrass.com/
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Meet long time industry veteran sing and musician Curtis Vestal (Nashville, TN) during our up-close and personal conversation on today's show.
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Get to know one of today's top music journalists up close during our discussion. Be sure to check out Evan Dickerson's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@edbluegrasstalkshow
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Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass
Cutter & Cash and the Kentucky Grass emerge as a vibrant and captivating young bluegrass ensemble deeply rooted in their West Kentucky origins. Positioned in the heartland of bluegrass music, their passion extends far beyond state borders, earning them national acclaim through performances that span coast to coast. This dynamic duo is more than just the industry's youth; they are consummate professionals, skilled instrumentalists, and captivating vocalists who infuse every performance with infectious enthusiasm.
For more information, visit cutterandcash.com
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Join me for the most enjoyable conversation with Shannon Baker and Jeremiah Gilmer. You will enjoy their new single release "Greater Good".
For more information, visit https://www.jeremiahgilmer.com
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Evans Media Source was founded over 20 years ago by award winning husband and wife Ernie & Debi Evans. Evans Media Source aka EMS was originally opened as a broadcasting company but it wasn't long before their love for music production & performance merged with EMS. Due to the overwhelming demand for the events the Evans duo had built together they soon found themselves full time producing music festivals, concerts and themed cruises. Today EMS owns and operates 11 music festivals, 2 themed cruises and manages 7 music events for other parties from cities, counties and private owners. Their current client list has grown tremendously and keeps Ernie & Debi busy working in 5 different states as well as the Caribbean.
For more information vist https://evansmediasource.com/about/
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In the heart of the Sunshine State, Chad Spikes was born with music in his veins. Born and raised in Tallahassee Florida Chad's early years were infused with the rich tapestry of local music, from rock and roll to the soulful sounds of the blues, the twang of country and the high lonesome melodies of bluegrass that drifted through the air like the scent of orange blossoms. It was in this fertile musical soil that Chad's journey as a performer, singer songwriter began.
From a tender age, live music and sing-alongs were a family affair. Harmonizing and playing guitar along with his aunts, uncles and cousins was his first experience in seeing the love and pure joy emanating in and on the faces of the audience. It was those moments that left a lasting impression of the power of music, setting the stage for his passion of performance. These experiences along with encouragement from family and friends to follow his dream provided Chad with confidence and a work ethic that eventually resulted in many opportunities and accolades. From a young man at the age of twelve until present, Chad has performed in opera roles at Florida State University, shared the stage with national recording acts, composed music for an Emmy-award winning film and has placed his songs in the Will Mclean Music Festival's best new Florida song contest on more than one occasion.
As a now prominent figure in Florida's music scene, his soulful voice and guitar playing continue to enchant his audiences. The respect and recognition in the bluegrass and folk communities is a testament to his authenticity as a person, growth as an artist and his unwavering love for songwriting and his home state.
For more information visit chadspikesmusic.com
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Marty Falle discusses lots of new music, his creative process, the family and business side of the music, and other behind the scene information. For more information, visit martyfallemusic.com.
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Join our discussion with singer/songwriter Latresa Smith of Nashville, TN. You will love her music, hear heart, and her story! For more information, visit Latresa.com.
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Shannon Baker & Sometime Soon is a four piece acoustic band built around the amazing vocals of Shannon Baker. Singing to delighted audiences across North Carolina, she brings songs alive with power, finesse and heartfelt soul. Enjoy this intimate conversation with the super talented Shannon Baker.
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Join the discussion with Chris Davis who has been playing bluegrass music, professionally, for over 25 years with many artists such as Larry Sparks, Alecia Nugent, Junior Sisk, Larry Cordle, The Grascals and currently with Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers. He has also played the Grand Ole Opry with country music's Diamond Rio.
https://officialchrisdavismusic.com/
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Lori started her music career in 1993 and began performing and singing with the group Bluegrass Addiction in 1999. Lori was introduced to bluegrass music by her husband Joe and began playing bass in 1994. After five years of playing and singing at local music festivals and jams, she joined the group and became a driving force behind the band.
Her awards include the 2015 Midwest SPBGMA Bass Fiddle Player and Traditional Female Vocalist of the Year and 2016 Female Vocalist. Her powerhouse vocals mixed with her tone and style on her 1967 Kay Upright bass provides a solid foundation for the band. Lori had a vision for this group and, in 2014, they began taking bluegrass in the Midwest by storm!
Lori is the founder and director for Lori King Productions. Her passion for bluegrass music shows on stage and off.
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Join our transparent and candid conversations with John and Sally Wilbanks. Their story is inspiring, and a huge encouragement to many people who have felt as if failure was final. The Wilbanks declare there is hope, and recovery is possible.
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Join the conversation with country/bluegrass artist Marty Falle, as they discuss songwriting, performing, traveling/touring, etc. Check out Marty's music at martyfallemusic.com.
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Get a sneak peak and listen to Deano's brand new song "The Beauty I See In You", as he interviews Mike Madrid who is a co-writer on the new single released to radio stations.
Release date is November 3rd and will be available on all digital streaming platforms.
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Danny Hensley of Southern Branch Radio features the music of Deano Graham. Music highlighted is from the following projects: "Time Has A Way", "Bluegrass 3:16", and "Grassville".
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Enjoy the stories behind the songs from Deano Graham as interviewed LIVE by radio personality Michelle Lee. You already love the GRASSVILLE record. Now you will find out the rest of the story!
Go take a listen at: deanograham.hearnow.com/grassville
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We all go through the storms of life. No one is exempt from tests and trials in life. It's important to surround yourselves with people who are able to assist us during challenging times. Choose your friends carefully and always consider the end result. You're going to make it!
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Unpacking the mystery of Psalm 37:23 KJV, "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way."
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We all want the blessings of God. Each of us included. But the blessings of God come to us for reasons that perhaps we have never understood. Today, those reasons are unpacked from Genesis 22:15-19 and Hebrews 6:13-15.
We hope you enjoy today's podcast and be sure to share with your friends.
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Where is the "perfect place" for you? The place where all your dreams come true. From the Garden or Eden, to the tabernacle in the wilderness, to Mary the mother of Jesus, and finally the Comforter. God has always ensured that we have the perfect place to meet him in intimacy.
Genesis 3:8-10, Exodus 7:16, Luke 1:26-33, John 14:15-18
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Yesterday is in the past. You made it. You are reminded that if God brought you through all of that... He can sure bring you through whatever you may be facing today in your life.
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As children of the King, we are due a special blessing simply because of who (and whose) we are. But we need to position ourselves properly to receive all that God has for our lives.
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A simple life-changing thought taken from Acts chapter 3, learn how to eliminate the enablers in your life. Those who accommodate you into accepting normalcy when God is desiring greatness for your life. It's those people who minimize your potential in life by keeping you addicted to the mundane.
Don't settle for normal when God has predestined greatness for your life.
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Welcome to Season 3 with Deano Graham!
It's a new season, offering new opportunities, and there's a new name for the podcast.
“The Deano Graham Show”
Episode 1 is a brief recap of events from October 2021 until now.
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Country Gospel artist Mike Wellman joins us in the studio to share his chart topping hit songs.
You can contact Mike Wellman at mikewellmanministries.com.
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It was great to be in the studio with my friend Joseph Reed of Singing News Radio. I hope you enjoy these moments together. Be sure to download their app to listen to great music 24/7.
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It was great to be in the studio with my friend Joseph Reed of Singing News Radio. I hope you enjoy these moments together. Be sure to download their app to listen to great music 24/7.
Support the show (https://cash.app/$DeanoGraham )
Sowing and reaping...
The enemy sees value in your harvest. That is why he chooses to attack you.
Jesus explains to us the war between two worlds that takes place in our lives. It's an interesting revelation that will surely revolutionize your life.
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From Mark chapter 6, we examine why the writer doesn't mention Peter walking on the water, how the storm is designed for our lives, and what God leaves behind for us as a testimony to build our faith in Him. God WILL meet us on the other side of our storm.
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Just a brief episode to bring encouragement to your life. Enjoy the inspirational thoughts and songs.
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Romans 8:28 KJV And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Nothing is just a coincidence. Nothing ever happens by happenstance. You are at the right place, at the right time, with the right people in your life to see your destiny and purpose come to pass.
Join us as we examine the story found in Ruth chapter 1. You will be blessed!
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Ecclesiastes 3:4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
This is an encouraging word to remind you, that after you have suffered a while, cried a while, been empty a while, lonely for a while, confused a while, been in anguish a while, and even tormented a while...
God says, "Enough is enough!"
You may be in a season of hell and high water, but the Spirit is saying, "Enough is enough." You are coming into a release and into a breakthrough.
Psalm 126:2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter and our tongue with singing.
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Bringing everyone up to date on this year's events, and my way too long sabbatical.
Hopefully, you'll hear from me at least on a weekly basis throughout the rest of the year.
Blessings to all!
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On August 22, 1741, George Frideric Handel started composing an oratorio. He would not leave his home for three weeks. In fact, he rarely left his composing chair. Twenty-four days later, Handel emerged from his writing room with a 259-page masterpiece called “Messiah”. The opening act prophetically points to the coming Messiah.
“Messiah” debut as an Easter offering at the Great Music Hall in Dublin, Ireland, on April 13, 1742. The music mesmerized its listeners, but it accomplished so much more than that. It wasn’t just a concert; it was a benefit concert.
That inaugural performance raised £400—$86,000 in today’s dollars! And that £400 was used to free 142 men from debtors’ prison. That is what qualifies Messiah as a double blessing. The first blessing is beautiful music that inspires the soul. The second blessing? Setting 142 captives free!
Blessing others gives encouragement to others to continue to walk with Jesus Christ. Today in prayer, ask the Lord how you can bless others for Christ’s glory.
“Prepare me the kind of tasty food I like and bring it to me to eat, so that I may give you my blessing before I die.” Genesis 27:4
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You fight darkness with light. You fight hatred with love. You fight unkindness with kindness. You don’t let evil overcome you. You overcome evil with good.
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21 NIV).
That’s tough to do. But it gets even tougher: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44 NIV).
Jesus gave us the greatest example of responding in love and praying for enemies. When you follow his example, you’re going to stand out in a world where everyone thinks of themselves first.
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Sometimes...God is wanting to do something "new" and yet we're still stuck in the "old." It's hard at times. To let go. Of what's familiar, and what we know. It seems easier to stay "comfortable," to just keep going with the flow, not to mess anything up. But then "new" happens, and often sends us spiraling, on one big, long loop.
Isaiah 43:18-19 Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."
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When you put your life in his hands, it doesn’t mean you’ll never goof up again. You’ll still make bad decisions. You’ll still mess up. But God can fit it all into his plans.
There is no plan B for your life. God knew all the mistakes you’d make before you were born. He also knew he’d fit those mistakes into his plan.
That means you can relax. You can stop being anxious. You can move into the new year trusting God’s grace is active your life.
Do your best with what God has given you. God will work everything into his plan.
Romans 8:28 “We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose” (GNT).
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How do you want God to use you? What ways can you use your talents in view of eternity? That means spending your time on earth preparing for your time in heaven.
The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 6:20, “Use every part of your body to give glory back to God” (TLB).
Don’t waste your time on what you can’t take with you. Instead, spend your time developing your serving skills and building your character to be more like Jesus.
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Matthew 22:39
And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbouras thyself.
We are called to love others, but you cannot stop there – we are to love others in the same way we love ourselves. Loving our neighbor will not always be easy because our neighbors are imperfect people, as are we. God is the connector that loves through us. *We love because He has first loved us.
“We love because He has first loved us”. 1 John 4:19*
“So I give you a new command: Love each other deeply and fully. Remember the ways that I have loved you, and demonstrate your love for others in those same ways”. John 13:34
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This Christmas give the gift of your time.
Time is your most precious commodity because your time is your life. You only have a certain amount of it. God has already decided the number of days you are going to live. And you’re not going to get any more.
You can always get more money, but you cannot get more time. So, when you give someone your time, you are giving that person a portion of your life that you will never get back. That’s why it’s a priceless gift.
“We must show love through actions that are sincere, not through empty words.”1 John 3:18 (God's Word)
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Do the right thing in everything you do. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that He is our model for integrity and seek to follow Him in all your ways.
"Real integrity stays in place whether the test is adversity or prosperity." - Charles Swindoll
“They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. "Teacher," they said, "we know you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren't swayed by men, because you pay no attention to who they are.” Matthew 22:16Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody’s going to know whether you did it or not.” – Oprah Winfrey
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As Christmas edges ever closer, let us remember the importance of joy. While we celebrate the birth of our Savior, we too await another awakening: the Lord’s second coming. We continue to fight through the pangs and groaning of a world which continually gives birth to sin. But, in this season, let us remember the Incarnation with as much joy as did those first witnesses.
But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11
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The Good News of great joy proclaimed by the angel over 2,000 years ago is still Good News and still a source of everlasting joy.
The angel said: “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:10-12 NIV).
Regardless of the circumstances, regardless of the pandemic, you can still celebrate this Christmas with great joy!
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I think deep down inside, we all long for home.
Jesus went from a heavenly home to a barn filled with animals. All so we could have a home in Heaven. We romanticize the story of His birth in Bethlehem, yet it really was a very cold, damp, unsanitary place for a baby to be born. But that is exactly where the Lord came to us: in a humble manger.
He was born so that we could be born again. Jesus said, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him” (John 14:23 NKJV).
He left His home in Heaven to make a home in our hearts.
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This is a stressful season, and it’s understandable that you’ll feel like acting this way at certain times.
But if you want to plant seeds of peace in your relationships, then you won’t emphasize other people’s mistakes. You’ll let go of your pride and choose to put someone else’s needs above your own. That’s not easy, even when you’re not under stress! But it is a mark of spiritual maturity when you can let something go for the sake of healthy relationships.
“Real wisdom, God’s wisdom . . . is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced” (James 3:17 The Message).
“Kind words bring life, but cruel words crush your spirit” (Proverbs 15:4 GNT).
The words you say make a difference. Learn to let go of things in the past that are causing friction in your current relationships. Speak life to the people you love.
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We may find that when we end up "doing less,” God is then able to “do more,” much more, with our time and energy than we ever could. He's never limited by the restrictions we face every day. He is powerful and able, to work on our behalf, even behind the scenes where we can't see. He can line out our path, ordain our steps, protect us from what we can't see up ahead, and bring blessing and help where we might otherwise face defeat.
That's where real peace is found, and strength for the days ahead. Not in getting it all done. But simply “choosing what it better.”
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33This Christmas season, I encourage you to simply seek Him first.
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“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.”John 10:28 NIVThere have been times in my life when I have said, “God, it’s not convenient to be a follower of Jesus right now. I’d like to let go for a little bit.” God says, “Well, you might want to let go of me, but I’m not letting go of you. You are in my hand, and no one can snatch you out.”You don’t know what your future holds or how many years you’ve got left. You might lose everything, but you are never losing the love of God. The world could go mad, but you have a loving Father who is working things out for good.
You can have all the confidence in the world with the assurance that the One who holds you in his hand is never letting you go.
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Tony Griffin, a renowned Irish athlete studying at Dalhousie University in Halifax, had lost his father to cancer only months prior and was cycling to raise funds for others suffering from this illness. Todd McDonald says of meeting Tony for the first time, “What struck me the most was that he was countering his extreme sadness over the loss of his father by immediately doing something to help others. I remember him telling me the best way he knew how to deal with grief was to find others suffering from something worse and help them out. That resonated with me then, and still does today.”
“God is fair; he will not forget the work you did and the love you showed for him by helping his people. And he will remember that you are still helping them” . Hebrews 6:10 NCVOne of the most significant things you can do with your life is to give it away—to be generous with what you’ve been given, including your money, resources, time, and talent.
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"Whoever is faithful in small matters will be faithful in large ones; whoever is dishonest in small matters will be dishonest in large ones” . Luke 16:10 GNT
It’s common today to hear people say, “What you do in your private life is nobody’s business.” Well, that isn’t really true. What you do in your private life—behind closed doors or out of view of other people—builds and reveals your true character. And God sees it just as clearly as the things you do in public.In fact, the small, unseen things you do are the seeds to God’s public blessing on your life.
Jesus said, “If you have not been faithful with what belongs to someone else, who will give you what belongs to you?” . Luke 16:12 GNT
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The Apostle Paul says kindness is a choice. It is something we can choose to "put on" every day. Kindness is "love in action" -- a practical expression of love. It is visible and active, not just emotional.
Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
The poet Robert Burns said "The kind heart most resembles God."
Proverbs 21:21 says, Be kind and honest and you will live a long life; others will respect you and treat you fairly.
Now, that's a promise to hold on to! Go and kill 'em with kindness.
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One of the most important lessons you can learn is that it is more blessed to give than to receive.
Share with others. Take care of each other. Be generous. Practice empathy.
Of course, it’s a lot easier to be kind when you’re not stressed. It seems like it is easier to practice kindness when you’re wealthy, healthy, and your cup is full. But Jesus didn’t admonish us to be kind when we feel like it.
Nope. Jesus actually admonishes us to practice kindness all the time.
1 John 3:18
My little children, let’s not love in word only, or with the tongue only, but in deed and truth.
Hebrews 13:1-2
Let brotherly love continue. Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for in doing so, some have entertained angels without knowing it.
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“So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” Galatians 6:9 (NLT)
If you want to be a righteous woman or man of God, then you have to learn how to be resilient. That means when you stumble—and it’s guaranteed that you will—you get back up. A lot of factors beyond your control can cause you to fail. But if you get back up, who knows what positive things might happen.
Keep going, and don’t let your failure be final. You never know what God can do through you!
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Partnership: is an arrangement where parties, known as partners, agree to cooperate to advance their mutual interests. The Bible has many examples of partnership.
None of us was intended to be "lone ranger" Christians. Having a church family is a first step to finding the other part of our missing spiritual walk. If something is missing in your following of Jesus, try partnership.
2 Corinthians 6:1
As God’s co-workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain.
Matthew 9:37-38
Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”Jesus really is the perfect partner!
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What the world most needs to see in this modern culture is godly families loving one another, business people working with integrity and frugality, and young men and women who choose moral purity. Simply put, the world needs to be exposed to believers who are obedient.
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8
The strongest gospel message does not come from a pulpit. The most powerful witness for Jesus Christ where you work, where you live, and where you relax is you. Submit to the Holy Spirit's work, and He will produce a great harvest of spiritual fruit in your life.
Filled with compassion, Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!’” Mark 1:41
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It’s my prayer that people around me will be able to see that my hope is in Christ. May I be quick to help and show love to others. May I be a reflection of Christ in all that I say and do. I pray that I am sharp and “ready to run” this great race called life.
Sometimes it’s easy to let our spiritual shoelaces come untied. We become comfortable Christians, and it’s easy for us to get tripped up. I am thankful the Lord can use situations in life to remind me that I need to lace up my spiritual running shoes and be prepared for this sometimes chaotic, but always beautiful life.
So, what condition are your running shoes in?
1 Corinthians 9:24
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.
Hebrews 12:1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,
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Four times in the Christmas story, angels appeared at appointed times to give a message to key individuals who were a part of Jesus' life and birth. And every time, those to whom they appeared were greatly "troubled," "afraid," or even "gripped with fear." And every time the angels said these powerful words, "Do not be afraid..."
Just like these in the Christmas story so many years ago, we’re often people who can easily become fearful, troubled, even gripped with fear. It's a natural human emotion, but God never intends for us to stay stuck there. And His powerful words and message to us is still the same, for He never changes. He says, “Do not fear,” over and over in His Word, reminding us that He is with us. And He made sure it was part of the message given to each of those to whom an angel appeared to announce His Son's birth.
For additional reading: Luke 1:11-33
Luke 2:8-14
Matthew 1:20-21
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Instead of focusing so much on what we don’t have and what didn’t happen, we can be grateful for what we do have. This doesn’t come naturally to me, probably not for you either, and not even for the apostle Paul, who said, “I have learned to be content.” Being content is a learning process.
The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 4:7-8, “Isn’t everything you have and everything you are sheer gifts from God? So what’s the point of all this comparing and competing? You already have all you need” (The Message).
The Bible tells us that we already have more than we need and far more than we deserve. Every good thing in our lives is a gift from God, and it is up to him to decide when and how he blesses us. It’s up to us to choose to be grateful and make the most of what we’ve been given.
As Ecclesiastes 6:9 says, “It is better to be satisfied with what you have than to be always wanting something else” (GNT).
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There are times when life just doesn’t seem like a season for gratitude. Maybe you have a chronic illness. Maybe you’re caring for an elderly parent or a special needs child. Thankfulness for these circumstances - even when each day brings fresh challenges — helps us to find hope and meaning.
Paul writes to the church in Rome, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us." Romans 5:3-5
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Maybe you’re in a hard place right now. Maybe you feel like God has left you on your own, to fend for yourself, or the battle seems too hard. Maybe there’s never enough money left at the end of the month and you can’t figure out how to make things work. No matter what, in it all, be assured that God is with you and He cares.
Choose a heart of gratefulness today. Make a list of all that God has blessed and filled your life with, that it’s been easy to take for granted at times. Trust He knows what concerns you and is at work even now, to bring you through this uncertain season. Thank Him for providing all you need.
Psalms 28:7. The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped; therefore my heart exults, And with my song I shall thank Him.
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Many people in our world desire inner calmness but have no relationship with the Lord. People often seek contentment by trying to improve their appearance, physical fitness, financial situation, or social status—or by abusing substances. But such things can’t bring tranquility of heart or mind. Only a relationship with Jesus leads to true peace.
Romans 5:1-2 NLT
1 Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.2 Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.
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God's love for us and our love and appreciation for Him will drive us to do what is right. It will drive us to obey Him, spend time with Him, get to know Him, and love others more.
As Christians we do the right thing not because it saves us, but because Christ saved us. In everything you do, do it all for God’s glory.
Check out these translations of Ecclesiastes 8:6.
KJV - Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore the misery of man is great upon him.
CSB - For every activity there is a right time and procedure, even though a person's troubles are heavy on him.
CEV - Life is hard, but there is a time and a place for everything,
Good News Translation - There is a right time and a right way to do everything, but we know so little!
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Psalm 119:103-105 NKJV
103 How sweet are Your words to my taste,
Sweeter than honey to my mouth!
104 Through Your precepts I get understanding;
Therefore I hate every false way.
105 Your word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path.
Today's podcast is a practical look at the importance of reading the Bible regularly and applying it to our daily lives.
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Anxiety is an out of control thought pattern. It settles over the mind like a severe weather system, spewing thunderclouds and casting lightning bolts. Life feels like an airplane in a tailspin. It feeds on what-ifs and worst-case scenarios.
Just don't give in to this thought pattern. It's nothing but a sinkhole. Don't catastrophize your way into quicksand. Just take a deep breath and remind yourself of Isaiah 54:17:
No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment, You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from Me, says the Lord.The battle is the Lord's, and YOU WILL WIN!
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The Apostle Paul gave us some of the most inspiring words found in the pages of Scripture: “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God”. Philippians 4:4–6
I love these verses. Paul wasn’t sitting in some ivory tower, spinning up practical theories. He was not lounging on some beach in the Mediterranean, eating a falafel and having an iced tea.
This was a man who was incarcerated, yet he was able to say, “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!”
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Jesus himself addressed it in the Sermon on the Mount:*Therefore do not worry, saying, “What shall we eat?” or “What shall we drink?” or “What shall we wear?”
For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you (Matthew 6:31–33 NKJV*).
Believers should not worry. Jesus is not saying that Christians shouldn’t be concerned about the necessities of life. He is not saying that we shouldn’t think about them or plan for the future.
The Bible encourages us to work hard, to save our money, and so forth, but what Jesus is saying is that we shouldn’t worry about these things. Worry doesn’t make your life longer; it just makes it more miserable.
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Proverbs 6:16-19 NKJV
These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him:
A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood,
A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil,
A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren.
We should pursue the things which God loves, including:
God loves eyes which gaze with humility.
God loves a tongue which speaks truth.
He loves hands which protect the innocent.
God loves a heart which devises good and righteous plans.
He loves feet which run rapidly to goodness.
God loves a trustworthy witness who speaks the truth.
And finally, He loves one who spreads pace among his brothers.
Today's Challenge: Pick one thing that God loves and work to implement more of it into your daily life.
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In John chapter 21 Jesus visited his disciples on the beach and together they shared breakfast. In today's podcast, we learn some valuable insights from this encounter. Sometimes when life gets foggy, and it will... we still need to have enough faith in God to get us through the fog.
Be encouraged today in that we serve a way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper, a light in the darkness. That is who he is. Jesus Christ!
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Enjoy this simple analogy of flying on an airplane and making that eternal flight to see Jesus someday face to face! "I'll fly away" the old song says, and that is going to ring true when we begin to make that flight to glory!
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Life is filled with trouble. It seems as though once you have one problem resolved, three more take its place.
As Job 5:7 says, “People are born for trouble as readily as sparks fly up from a fire” (NLT).
From the moment we come into this life, there are all kinds of troubles. While there are reasons to be troubled, there is a greater reason not to be: We know Jesus.
He said to His disciples, “Trust in God, and trust also in me” (John 14:1 NLT).
There are times in our lives when things happen that we just don’t understand. When I don’t understand something about God, I try to always fall back on what I do understand: I do understand that God loves me, and He will see me through.
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In Psalm 23:4 NKJV, David speaks of how God is with us, even when we go through valleys in our lives: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me” .
I hear the Lord saying, “You see that mountaintop in the distance? The way to that mountaintop is through this valley. You come with Me now through the valley.”
Psalm 23 came from the school of hard knocks, from a man who knew what it was like to need God’s help. We all go through those valleys in life, those hard times. Whatever valley it is, remember this: You are not alone. That is God’s great promise to the believer.
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2 Chronicles 20:15 NIV “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's.
vs. 17 “You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you . . . Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you”
If you run from your enemies—from your problems—those things never will get better. God wants you to face your enemies, while trusting him to deliver you from them.
Whatever you’re fighting today, trust God to win the battle for you.
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Heaven will be greater than anything we've ever imagined! We can take the most wonderful thing we've ever experienced in life, multiply it a million times, and we'll get just a glimpse of what Heaven will be like. And the good news is that it will last forever and ever.
Be encouraged by reading 1 Corinthians 13:12 NLT:
Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely.
Whatever season of life you may be in, whatever you're going through, whatever you do, just keep your focus on Heaven.
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John 14:17-18 NLT He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.f18 No, I will not abandon you as orphans—I will come to you.Sometimes people falsely conclude that when they don’t feel God, He is gone. That He has disappeared. But He is there, even when you don’t feel Him — God is still there.
The Bible tells us in Hebrews, “For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’ ” (Hebrews 13:5).
Be encouraged because God is still with you!
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It's a wonderful reminder that when we go through fiery trials as believers, God doesn’t get distracted and forget about us in the middle of our situation. He doesn’t just leave us there all alone.
The Psalmist David wrote in Psalm 23, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me”
When trouble comes your way, cast it on Him. Spread it out before Him. Call on Him. As the Scripture says, “Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
Things may get a little “toasty” on the outside… Things might get a little tough and ugly on the outside, But rest assured that on the inside. In the middle of things — on the inside where Jesus is… Everything is alright. Everything is still beautiful. He is making all things good for us.
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How do you honor God when you don't understand what's going on in your life? How do you keep your eyes on God when they're full of tears?
You honor God, not by thanking Him for your problems, but by thanking Him in the middle of your problems. You do what Job did:
Job 1:21-22 I came naked from my mother's womb, and I shall have nothing when I die. The Lord gave me everything I had, and they were his to take away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.Whatever is going on in your life today, simply choose to honor God in faith.
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Prayer is always appropriate, in every situation. We should be anxious about nothing, and instead, pray about all things. Plus, it's never too late to pray.
Tonight, we pray for our beautiful nation. May God bless America and keep His hand on us.
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Throughout the Bible, we observe God at work in people's lives. Sometimes He acts in dramatic fashion, as in parting the Red Sea, while at other times it may appear as if He's not taking any action.
Jesus even delayed when Mary and Martha sent word that their brother needed His help. Abraham and Sarah had to wait a long time for God's plan to come to pass. And their impatience caused them to make mistakes by taking matters into their own hands.
Look at Joseph's story as he had to endure pain and prison before God elevated him into a position of power and authority to help his family.
John 5:17
But Jesus answered them, "My Father has been working until now, and I have been working."
Whatever you're facing today, simply remind yourself how God is working on your behalf and He has not forgotten you.
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Finding a way to thank God for the victory in advance is the key to winning life's battles. Thanking Him afterward shows gratitude, but thanking Him in advance shows extreme and crazy faith! It's time to let God fight our battles for us.
2 Chronicles 20:21 NCV
"Then [the king] chose men to be singers to the Lord, to praise him because he is holy and wonderful. As they marched in front of the army, they said, 'Thank the Lord, because his love continues forever.'"
vs. 22 "And at the moment they began to sing and to praise, the Lord caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to begin fighting among themselves, and they destroyed each other!"
You can win your battle without even picking up your weapon. Now, that's my kind of battle!
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A strange sequence of events are found in Job 1:20.
Job stood up, tore his robe in grief, and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground and worshiped.
When life wounds you and you're in grief and despair, one of the best ways to experience healing is through worship. The most important time to worship is when your heart is breaking. Choose to worship God instead of becoming bitter.
Job 36:15-16 (CEV) reminds us "Hard times and trouble are God's way of getting our attention! And at this very moment, God deeply desires to lead you from trouble and to spread your table with your favorite food."
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We find great advice taken from the story of Job. When you're confused, angry, doubting, and wounded, don't turn away from God. Instead, turn toward him because He's the only one who has the power to really comfort you.
Job 12:13 (Message)
True wisdom and real power belong to God; from Him we learn how to live, and also what to live for.
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Jesus drew on a particular backdrop in Matthew 6:26-27 when he said, "Look at the birds... Aren't you far more valuable to the Father than they are? Can all of your worries add a single moment to your life?"
Philippians 4:6-7 Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything.
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Dr. Deano Graham shares a simple reminder that our Father is faithful when life gets frustrating. This episode reveals five attributes of God that make this all possible. God is Omniscient, Omnipotent, Omnipresent, He cannot lie, and God is unchanging.
1 Corinthians 1:9
God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
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