Olive Grove Church Podcast: Recent Episodes
Russ Emanuel, Lead Pastor
Olive Grove Church exists to create connections that change communities. We do this by sharing the Good News, Serving others, and Sowing generously.
Faith is where we show off our weakness by trusting God, who is always strong. So, no matter what you’re facing know that He is holding every situation because He’s also holding you.
It’s in our nature to hold on to things, but mature giving reflects the grace of God. This allows us to show His heart to others. Everything we do starts with the heart, and everyone has something to give. The question is, what are you doing with what you have?
The world has an unrealistic view on the expectations for marriage. But with a foundation centered on God’s grace and truth, marriage can be a canvas, shaping many lives in the flow of love and unity.
The media today tries to tell us how to feel, keeping us in a state of worry and hurry. But God is never in a hurry. His timing is perfect because Grace has a pace of unhurried rhythm. So learn to be content with being still. Slow down and keep it simple.
You’re a product of the work of God, created to do good work. A work He prepared in advance for the achievement of a purpose. Because you can tell people anything, but how you show them the love of Jesus will speak louder.
We can do all the right things, the wrong way, with the wrong motives. But when we are motivated by love, rather than ego and committed to the mission, we can fulfill the purpose God has for us His way.
Our words have the power to create. Good or bad, division or unity, the choice is entirely up to us. And as followers of Jesus, our united mission should be more important than our divided opinions. So what are your words saying to those around you?
We can’t buy into everything we see and hear; if we don’t control what we think, we’ll never control what we do. A renewed mind is an ongoing journey, and if we can believe right, everything else will fall into place.
Change will always happen; it’s the catalyst for growth. But in order to receive what lies ahead we have to be willing to release the old. So stop holding on to what God no longer remembers. It’s time to make room for the new.
The word of God is a steady stream of truth, and when our minds are renewed with His truth, we train our souls to be at rest and realize who we have been made all along.
Transformation of the mind is a process, one set on understanding who we already are in God and abiding in this truth His way. Stop trying to produce in your own strength. Let’s live securely in Him while carrying His love, joy, and peace to others.
The moment you trust in Christ you become a new creation, but true discipleship is rooted in the renewing of our minds. Let God transform you by changing the way you think and it will change the way you live.
We carry the living water thirsty people are looking for, but we don’t have to cram it down their throats. Jesus didn’t condemn or condone sin but extended compassion while confronting it. We should seek to do the same.
We can’t modify others. But we can love them where they are, leading them to the one who can do something about their sin. His perfect love will provide the proof.
Jesus had a heart for people, so we should be helping others become a part of His family. Know that we’re not here just to take up space but to march in what we were made for.
Today’s message, titled Problems and Promises, takes us into 1 Kings and the promise the Lord had for Elijah and the widow woman through all the problems they faced. These same promises He has for us today. God’s provision will show up where you least likely suspect.
Excellence is a mindset; the culture we create within the context of our gifts. So we should be willing to lead and build around what we value, bringing our best to honor God and inspiring others. How you do it matters.
An intentional God lives in us. Therefore, if we live out of who we are in Him, we can be intentional in our association, in our invitation, and in our proclamation.
The light of the world lives in us so we should be conduits that change the culture. Set the change for what you want to see, standing firm in what God has called you to do. You have a part to play.
You don’t have to earn favor, it’s already been provided by Jesus. So let’s focus on things that matter and get out of our feelings, making ourselves available so God can do something through us.
Culture changes but the good news of the Gospel never will. Build your life on God’s word, knowing the truth and believing to live it out.
God is with us, for us, in us. He’s already provided everything we’ll ever need so there’s no need to worry. He’ll never let you do this by yourself.
It’s not over! No matter what you’re going through, no matter the situation or the journey, God’s working it out. Have confidence in Him and know that God hasn’t left you. It’s all good.
You can’t change people but you can pray for them. Even in tough situations we can have joy and encourage others in the Lord. So what are you doing with the time you have where you are?
You are an overcomer, your words have power, and you have the authority to choose life or death. Stop waiting on God to stop what you can speak to.
Life will present trouble, but don’t allow it to cause you to lose heart. God’s stronger than any mistake we could ever make. His righteousness always wins.
If we’re going to operate as kings, we must do so with a kingdom mindset. When we change the way we think, we have a different view of who God is and who we are in Him. So focus on your relationship with Him and everything else will flow from that.
Fear, shame, and guilt have no hold on us. We stand firm in our faith, believing what God says about us. And with power, authority, and dominion we can step out to do that which God called us to do, reign. We’re kings and it’s time we started acting like it.
It’s important to know who you are. You are held in the grip of Grace, part of a royal priesthood and born to reign. You have authority and power to rule over life. You are a king.
You will never out give God, and when you give to Him first, you give to a supply that will never runs dry. So trust and obey God with what you have and receive so much greater thank you could ever think to imagine.
Overcoming sin is not a do it yourself project; Jesus has already done it for you. So don’t make sin your focus. Instead, rest in the finished work of Jesus knowing you have everything you need to overcome.
The very tool the enemy wants to take you out with, God will use to take you through. His Grace is greater than our worst, He loves us relentlessly and is mighty to save. So don't believe the lie, because our Lord is hope for the hopeless.
Many people think they have to do something to get forgiveness, but God's Grace is independent of our actions. He loves us no matter what. We just need to put our faith in action and thank Him for the gift He's already supplied.
Jesus did more than just get us out of trouble, He walked us into a new life. One, not based on rules but on a relationship with Him. So embrace what God is doing inside of you. Live the life Grace empowers you to.
It's ok to feel discouraged but don't start living in it. Set your heart above the line, knowing that whatever your problems are, God is bigger.
We already have victory over the penalty and power of sin, and efforts of our own making to fix the problem only amplify it. But allowing the Holy Spirit within us to confront the issue and provide correction leads us to life and peace.
Grace is personified in Jesus and He's infinite in His goodness, holiness, and love. You can't go too far with those. Put your faith in what Jesus finished at the cross. It's too good to not believe.
You've already been accepted, you don't have to earn anything. All you have to do is believe.
Sometimes we can find ourselves sitting in negative thoughts, allowing the enemy to work in our lives. But we don’t have to bite the bait of a victim mentality because the victory is already ours. God’s grace is sufficient so we don’t have to strive to be perfect. We can rest in the peace of knowing we are children of a loving God and triumphant in Him.
Your position in Christ is greater than your condition in life, but you have to change your beliefs. Align your thoughts with God's word. See you for who you are in Him. Because the truth of the matter is you can live a free and full life, when you know your position I'm Him.
The cross changed everything, separating the old vs the new. Creating a life where we don't have to measure up to the standard of the law but can instead live free in love. Grace has made you a new creation in Him and there is nothing left to be done. It is finished.
God does not condemn us, but He’s totally in love with us. So much so that He paid a debt we couldn’t pay, giving us the gift of righteousness through faith when we believe. It’s not something we have to strive for but a place that we can live from.
Your closeness with God is a fact. It’s not based on feelings or performance. It doesn’t require you to die or climb mountains. You won’t get any closer than you are right now. You just need to trust in what He has already done, allowing God to work through you and Grace to take you through.
Performance and perfection cannot produce freedom. We don't need to work out what God has already worked in. So rest in the finished work of God, knowing that you don't have to worry. It's already taken care of.
Storms will happen, waves will crash, winds will blow, but God will not change. Trust in Him, knowing that what's on the inside of you is greater than any problem you face. No matter what it looks like, you will make it to the other side.
We were promised an abundant life not a problem free life. But just because there are obstacles, doesn't mean we stop. God is still working even in the chaos. So keep walking, keep moving. The promise still stands.
The enemy's game plan is distraction, but don't let your head forfeit the promise God laid on your heart. You can trust Him while you're going through. He's already made a way before you get to the other side.
You’re still here after all you’ve been through. But don’t miss what lies ahead focusing on what’s behind you. Allow God to use what you went through because there’s a purpose to the process. And your past will either become your prison or your platform.
Rejection is unavoidable in life, but holding on to the offense creates deep wounds we carry beneath the surface. Address the wound and allow God to heal you correctly. Because internal injuries not dealt with with will continue to cause you pain, infecting your perspective.
Viewing things through the lens of a wounded heart changes our perspective. But we don’t have to remain victim to sore spots of the past. So, what wounds are you carrying today? Stop allowing pain to control the narrative and allow Jesus to help you get over it.
What are you zooming in on today? Does it line up with what God says about you? We always have a reason to be thankful, even when it doesn’t look or feel like we do. We can choose to be optimistic, having faith that God’s plan is good no matter what.
We choose to be offended through imagination and assumption, and what's in our heart comes out in our actions. It locks us in a prison, draining the love. So forgiveness is not optional, it's essential. Overcome the offense, it's the enemy of your heart.
Your heart is the lens by which you see the world and you hold the key to changing its condition. Think good even when it doesn't look good because what you magnify you get more of.
You can’t expect to see good things when confessing all things bad, so change the way you’re thinking. Imagine the word at work in your life, knowing that what you’ve planted will come to pass even though you can’t see it. Stop placing limitations on what’s within you.
We don't see things as they are, we see things as we are because what's in our heart determines our perspective. So how do you see yourself and does it line up with what God says about you? What's hiding in your heart?
Unnecessary weight can make it difficult to get out of a rut, limiting our perspective and placing us in a posture of defeat. But there is good news, Jesus. His yoke is easy and His burdens are light. So lay down the weight upon you. It's not yours to carry.
Sometimes we find ourselves in a "rut", but whether or not we stay there is our choice. So stop pointing fingers at everyone else and take responsibility for your actions. Your first step out starts there.
When our hope aligns with God's plan, things happen for us. It doesn't matter the circumstances or what they look like. Stay the course, having faith that He will see you through to the promise. Our success is found in knowing and trusting Him.
Success is not measured by appearance, position, or people. True success has everything to do with your heart, and it takes commitment. So when things get in the way, remember the enemy has a plot but God has a plan.
God's timing doesn't always match our desires, but there's progress in the waiting process. When we learn to trust in Him and remain faithful with what He has called us to, we allow success to become something He gives us. It's not what you think it is; it's so much better.
Earthly gifts are temporary and lose value, but the most valuable gift was given on the cross; expressing the greatest love ever received and meeting the greatest need of man. Open the gift; it’s freely given and you don’t have to perform for it.
The cross is God's Christmas tree and on it we received the greatest gift ever given. Jesus became our substitute so that we could be reconciled back to Him and participate in His life, that lives inside of us.
God is with you, for you, and not against you. He gave His gift just for you. Receiving this gift means to accept His son, and the moment you believe your life will change forever.
Align yourself with the promises of God and by faith proclaim His word as He leads you in your God-given purpose, allowing you to win on all levels.
Our God is faithful and He shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory. It's a fundamental truth that will not be changed, altered, or conformed. He'll honor His word.
You have keys to the Kingdom, power and authority over the earth. You no longer magnify your problems because your praise shifts your perspective. You're a king with keys. So don't let your keys be unused.
Regardless of your circumstances, God is still undefeated. He has anointed and appointed you to be a king, so walk in that authority and power, even when conditions aren't perfect, with confidence in God.
Where your treasure goes your passion flows. And when you live in the revelation of His grace, generosity grows in the soil of a grateful heart. So you don't have to try out of obligation, you just need to trust in the grace giving source.
Your stuff will decay and disappear, so don't let it become your focus. God has a plan for your financial freedom, but your belief will determine your behavior. You don't have to settle for the condition you're in.
You have inside of you the power to change your circumstances, but you can’t believe for what you don’t know belongs to you. Get into agreement with what God says about you. God is faithful, you don’t have to worry.
Everything we have God has given to us, including money. He’s trusting us to manage it well and steward it responsibly, but it starts with our heart. So how are you handling what God has chosen you to use? Or have you been conditioned to let money use you?
Hurting people hurt people, but there is a place that provides space for grace. The GAIN ministry is dedicated to serving those who serve others, allowing them to yield their broken pieces so God can begin healing them. At the heart of this ministry are Pastors Chris and Rachel Embler, and this is their story.
The storm will come. But even in the midst of it, when you can't understand and you're asking why, know that God is there. He sees you and will never leave you. Put your trust in Him.
Jesus is the source of our joy and just because you can’t feel it right now, doesn’t mean it has run out. Difficult times can sometimes restrict our flow, placing our focus on possession when it needs to be on position. So what’s stopping your flow? Don’t allow what’s in the back seat to control your position behind the wheel.
It's not a sin to be angry. Jesus got angry, but He did so in a way that honored God while not letting personal feelings dictate His actions. So, it's ok to get angry, but don't let your quest to be right prevent you from being loving.
Just because the waves knock you down, doesn't mean you're defeated. Jesus cares for you and sees what you're going through. Remind yourself of who you are in Christ and know that even when you can't see Him, He's with you. You're gonna make it!
We’re good at reacting when we’re in our feelings, but God’s favor is there even in the struggle. He sees you and He cares more than you’ll ever know. The grace of God crosses lines for you. So rest in the finished work of Jesus. All it takes is one touch.
Delays and disappointments lead us to doubt, even when we know the truth, but God is building while we're in the pruning. Don't quit in the process, because what the enemy meant for evil, God is working for your good.
What you are going through does not change who you are, a child of God. His grace is sufficient no matter the circumstances, so rest in the one who is never weak. He has the power to turn your weakness into a weapon for victory.
God’s love is unchanging, even when we’re uncertain. So don’t let your circumstances define your faith. Your problems will become the platform He uses for you to see His power, protection, and provision at work. God is for you.
History proves that God is always faithful, and what He has done before, He will do again. So don't get distracted in the middle of the storm. Because what the world may say is falling apart, the Lord is saying it's falling in place.
We have one common enemy who wants to divide and distract us from our one mission. But we are a reflection of God's love, and together we can do far greater things for His Kingdom than we ever could apart.
We like to avoid issues because they get messy, but maybe what you're trying to walk around, God is wanting to take you through. We have a responsibility to find a solution to those hard issues. To do that, we need to take a seat, lean into God, listen, and then lead.
You are not alone in your struggles, and you don't have to live a restless life. Have confidence in knowing Jesus has paid it all, and in Him you can find rest. Rest in His promise, rest in His provision, and rest in His peace as you Shelter in Grace.
Jesus was rejected so we wouldn't have to be. He took the punishment we deserved to give us a life we didn't. Now the separation is over, sin is removed, and we can rest in His finished work; knowing that we are accepted. All we need to do is believe.
It's hard work trying to live up to the performance base of religion, but here's the good news. You don't have to! There's nothing left for you to do, He's already done it all. You just need to receive the free gift of righteousness and walk in what is already yours!
Nobody is perfect, but by the grace of God, we don’t have to be. We don’t have to live with rules on rocks when we have a relationship. Righteousness is a gift that is received, not achieved. God just wants you to trust Him.
It’s time we start trusting and stop trying to pay a debt that’s already paid. We don’t need to work to be forgiven, God has already forgiven us. He’s already made up His mind; nothing and no one will change it. So stop beating yourself up, and start resting in the finished work of Jesus.
Your union with Christ is taking place right now and His arms are always open. You can find refuge in this union; comfort in knowing you don't have to strive to get connected because He lives in you. The debt has been paid in full.
We have a responsibility as a church to equip, encourage, and empower believers, but the process will not be easy. However, the same power that raised Jesus to life lives on the inside of us. We were created on purpose for a purpose, and we can make a difference. We can be the solution.
We sometimes get in our own way, stumbling over things in our past when God is trying to push us to our future. But clarity cancels chaos, and when we’re focused on Him and His plan for us, we can navigate through any obstacle along the journey. So know that you’re already fit for the purpose God has for you. You were made for this.
Jesus didn't come so that you could have a mediocre life. He came that you might have an abundantly full one. A life with purpose and through Him, clear cut vision. You were born to make a difference, so what's your next step?
It's easy to tell someone to trust but harder to do. Especially when we're focused on what we can't do instead of what Christ has done. But you are no longer a slave, you are a child of God. Trust in the finished work of Jesus. He's already won.
It’s ok for you to have fear, but not ok for fear to have you because feelings should be indicators not dictators. Remember that God is faithful even when we aren’t, and if He brought you to it, He'll bring you through it.
God is greater than anything you will ever face, but what you believe will impact your behavior. The greatest struggle we deal with is asking "will He actually do it for me?" Yes He will. Don't let doubt and disbelief keep you from the promise of greater!
We all make mistakes, we all miss the mark, but there is good news. He took our guilt and exchanged it with his grace. And grace is greater than any mistakes you have ever made.
We're not exempt from pain, but we don't have to hold on to it. There is good news today, and His name is Jesus. His grace is enough to cover all of your hurt, pain, and shame, and far greater than anything that has ever happened to you.
In the midst of uncertainty, know that God is still able. He has a plan for your life and he will come through with provision and protection. So there's no need to panic, because He's already worked it out.
At times you may feel weary, but know that God will never leave you sitting there. And even when you're not where you're supposed to be, He's working things out for your good. So stand firm and know that He is God, and He's already won the battle.
Did you know that you can change communities? There's something within you that somebody needs. So when you share the good news, serve with compassion, and sow generously, you're setting up links for God to connect to others, and He's not done with you yet.
God gave you a gift that you can offer; something you can do to edify and unify the body. But you must know the vision, so that when you serve, you will do so with purpose and a sense of direction.
Change never happens in a place of comfort, but life change happens where intimacy begins. Because intentional opportunities allow us to connect to God and to other people, as we add value to each other and create connections that change communities.
What God seeks to unite, the enemy schemes to divide. However, where there is a Christ centered foundation, there will be clarity for direction that is driven by His purpose, focused on what He wants for us, and centered on a unified mission.
God will never break His promise. No matter the circumstance, or what it feels like, or even what you see. He is still able, and victory prevails because our God never fails.
We often marvel at the snapshot on the surface of someone's life, not knowing the process it took to get there; comparing what we want to their "relationship goals". But relationships are a journey, not a destination, and the only way to truly be fulfilled is to put Christ at the center of it all.
We all have different roles but the same goal, and when we're standing together, shoulder to shoulder, we find the strength to keep going with an expectant hope for a great future.
Pain can become a prison, but God can take what the enemy meant for evil and turn it into a platform. His empowering grace authorizes and equips us for what He's saved us for. The question is, will you continue through the process or stop in the mess?
Even when we don't know what we're doing, God knows what He's doing. He will take a setback and use it to set you up for so much greater. So don't get stuck in your situation because failure is not your final destination.
Don't allow the situation you're facing to get you stuck. Jesus is greater than any situation you could ever face, and He is faithful to keep you through to the finish where you can experience true freedom in Him.
Don't let your dreams die carrying them on your own. Cast the vision God has given you and allow others to help. Because the dream is not meant to for you alone, but God given dreams serve other people.
Whether or not we love God, He loves us. So much so that he gave His only begotten son; unconditionally with no strings attached so that we may have eternal life. And it starts the moment we believe!
Unforgiveness puts you in a prison, but the mind of forgiveness does not hold what you've done against you. So when the enemy tries to tell you who you're not, remind him of who God says you are.
Pain needs attention and holding on to unforgiveness means you're ignoring the injury. Instead, give yourself time to heal, allowing faith to see you through. Release forgiveness so you can be free to receive what God has for you.
Our sins were forgiven at the cross; no strings attached, no conditions to achieve, only a gift to receive. Now because He has forgiven us, we are free to forgive others, showing love and unwrapping kindness through the greatest gift ever given.
God wants to take you further; stretching you beyond what you think you can do. So put your faith in Him, trusting that He has prepared you for what He has called you to.
What you give has an impact on others and when you give it impacts you, so giving shouldn't be a burden, but should reflect the love God gave you. Because grace gives freely with no strings attached, and we are the same.
Giving is an important part of who we are; paving the way for irrational generosity. Not because we're looking to gain something, but because of what God has already done.
We're good at talking about what we'll do with the things we don't have, but what are you doing with what God has already given you?
Marriage is an intimate union that is not meant to be done alone, and when God is at the center His relationship keeps it all. So have the mindset that you are in this together and with God you'll make it through. His love will keep you in the process and never be separated from you.
We have a responsibility to our families to operate in the titles we've been given; leading and serving by example. So we can't sit and do nothing. Get up in the authority of your title, using your platform to serve God's purpose. It's important and makes a difference in the lives of those around you.
The enemy desires to destroy your family through confusion and chaos, but if you're developing relationships that add depth to your family through honor and honesty, then you will set the tone for a house of harmony.
If we say yes to everything then nothing is important. Give your best yes to your family, building a foundation that establishes boundaries and sets standards. Set the tone for your family so they know and understand there's more freedom within the boundaries than outside the lines.
When what you see doesn't look like what God said don't be discouraged. Your weapon is a melody. Praise protects the plan and purpose God has placed in our hearts. So when the enemy attacks with worry hit him back with worship.
Your circumstances may look big, but our God is bigger. Look beyond what you see with your natural eye and respond in faith with His word. Because regardless of your circumstances, He is still good, and there's life attached to our words when we remember whose we are.
Grace sets the pace for us to be in God's rhythm, creating a relationship that transforms us from the inside out. Live in the rhythm of that relationship, presenting yourself as a living sacrifice, flowing into what He has called you to be.
The more your situation says don't praise, you should get louder. Praise changes circumstances. So open up your mouth and turn your prison into a praise party because you're not bound by what you see, you're bound by what you believe.
Your destiny is not defined by your destination but by the decisions you make. So stop looking at the odds and start seizing opportunities. Because greater is He that's on the inside of you and what He says about you is true.
When God looks at you he doesn't see your sin because grace has a name, Jesus. He turned the world upside down with the gospel and changed the game. So it's no longer about what you do but about what Jesus has already done.
God's love doesn't decrease just because we mess up. His love is not determined by what we do, but by who He is. So don't let your mind condemn you for what He has already forgiven you for. You're not guilty.
We often place our trust in things, forgetting that God is enough. If we plant our faith in Him and allow Him to grow us, we realize he's sufficient enough to provide whatever we need. But how can we expect to grow if we're constantly pulling our seed from the ground and placing it somewhere else?
No matter what you're facing, you're still a child of God. Seek His peace in all that you go through because His plans for you are great, even when the outcome doesn't look good.
The world says you're no good, but God says He can use you; because when He gives a vision it's beyond what the crowd can see. Have faith even when you can't see and praise though you can't see the end.
Every house should have values. Wrapping up the series for The Heart of The House we discuss the core values of Olive Grove Church. Each team Director covers a core value; giving insight into the things that we honor in this house.
You don't have to fight; the victory is already won. But you do need to be present against the enemy. Standing firm in God, praising Him in advance for what He's already done. Fight from a place of victory, you have everything you need to do so.
The role you play is vital to the house of God, but it must be built on a solid foundation. Be planted in the proper position so that you can be prepared to produce. For without Christ what you're building is fake and ultimately faulty.
God does His best work in the dirt, but He can't produce what you don't plant. Don't hold on to what He has called you to sow. Your need is in the seed, and even when you can't see it, know that He's working.
Let us renew and deny ourselves daily, committing to being selfless by pursuing God's purpose instead of our passion. And whatever we do, do it as unto the Lord; never failing to celebrate the current season, because the reward is in the grind.
You will only fulfill your purpose when you're stretched beyond your comfort. This walk with God is not about playing it safe. We have to look beyond ourselves to see the bigger picture because our greatest victories come when we stretch beyond our limits.
The world tells you greatness is all about self, but the Kingdom says greatness is all about service. Using our time, talents, and treasures in whatever capacity we're called, we can make a difference in the Kingdom of God. What are you doing with what God has given you? Be willing to step up and go, even if nobody else will.
We can be bold and speak our minds about things we want, so why can't we do the same for Jesus?Let's stop thinking about ourselves and see the bigger picture because someone close to you needs to hear the good news. Will you step up and tell them?
We can't sit on our hands and expect miracles to fall in our lap. We have to put in work and activate our faith. Stir up the gifts inside of you and believe it even though you can't see it. Get up and get to work.
We owed a debt we could not pay, but God had a plan to redeem us all. And though we don't deserve the gift so freely given, if we receive it through faith and put our trust in Him, we don't have to worry another day because He paid it all. Trust in the finished work of the cross.
Everyone deals with rejection, but it doesn't have to become an infection. Don't let the pain of rejection define who you become. Recognize your pain for what it is and release forgiveness. Allow God to heal your hurt and move on from the situation.
Jesus came to give you a new life, not to remodel your old one, so it's time that we recognize the need for change. Just like the woman at the well, you don't have to go back. You don't have to keep going through the motions looking for satisfaction in the things of the world. Jesus is the living water, and if you drink from His well you will never be thirsty again.
You can do a lot of things, but you can do nothing without Jesus. He is not a side dish; He should be the main course, but don't keep Him to yourself. Share Him with those around you. Give them bread that will sustain them, protect them, provide for them, guide them through this world.
You can't do ministry alone. Each of us has an important part according to the gifts we've been given, but it starts with a relationship. Fill yourself with the word of God and allow Him to show you where you need to be. Seek Him first and then do your part. Don't sit down on what He's given you because together we are better.
Light can penetrate darkness, but darkness cannot penetrate light; unless we let it. The light of God has the power to drive out darkness, and that same power dwells inside of us! Challenge yourselves today and declare that today is the end. Darkness has no hold over you anymore; we are shutting the door.
We live in a society today where everyone wants rapid responses to their problems, but God is saying wait. In the midst of your troubles worship Him and press reset. Remember his faithfulness and allow Him to work in you. Because our God is bigger than our problems and His promise still stands. What He's done before He will do again.
In life there are going to be things that are painful, whether it's physical, mental, or emotional. But God is with you through it all. Through praise we can connect ourselves to Him and decide whether our pain is a platform or a prison. Our pain doesn't scare Him off. God can use something as dark as pain and replace it with a light full of hope!
We all go through storms, but the important thing is how we handle them. Instead of giving up and hanging our heads in defeat, we should listen, write, and wait patiently on the Lord. He will see us through and bring us out on the other side greater than before.
After salvation, our duty is to train ourselves to reign and to create disciples that do the same, but it all starts with our mind. Our Kingdom mentality is extremely important. Because when we understand the Kingdom, we can demonstrate the Kingdom.
Being bold for God will not be comfortable, but it will be worth it; knowing that you have put your trust in Him so that He can help you carry out what He has called you to. Have confidence in the power at work within you to build your faith, build followers, and bear good fruit.
It's important to slow down and enjoy the things that God has blessed us with. We need to remember God is not in a rush, we are. That's why we get anxious, nervous, distracted. When we slow down and spend time with God it's easier for us to discover our purpose instead of popularity, surrender to Him instead of controlling everything, and create discipline. We can learn all of these things by saying our best yes to God.
With discipline comes pain, but we don't have to live with regret. If we choose to put God first, we can achieve anything. And while going through the process may be painful, the peace of knowing we can put our hope in God is something we won't regret.
We all like to be in control, trying to handle everything when "everything" is not ours to handle. But if we let go and let God have His way in our lives, we can begin to live out His promises for us. We can find peace in knowing that when we put our trust in Him, He will lead us in the right direction.
The purpose God has for you has more power than your popularity, but it's up to you to choose. You can't please God and your flesh. Choose to please God rather than people because what He says about you and who He says you are is more important.
One person is not meant to carry the vision alone, but we all must work together to reach those far from God. The gifts you have are not meant to be sat on, and God's expecting a return on His investment. So what are you doing with what God has given you?
No matter where we are, no matter where we go, God is with us! Whether He leads us there or we run the opposite way, He is there. We may not understand the great love He has for us, but we can believe. And through our belief and faith His love for us becomes more clear every day.
There will be storms in our lives, and whether God puts us there or we put ourselves there, one thing is certain. God is with us.
God leads us through the wilderness for a reason. Even the wilderness we take ourselves through, He is faithful there too. What He starts He will finish because he loves us and He is not a quitter. So just know, it's not over. God is with us!
No matter how far from God you go, He's faithful to stay with you. And though He didn't put you in the mess, He wants to help you through it. So set your mind on Him and focus on His goodness. Because your situation may look big, but our God is bigger.
Sometimes God's right place doesn't mean right now, but that's when faith comes in. When we do our part, surround ourselves with the right people, and step out on faith, it creates the right atmosphere for God to step in and do the exponential. So find the right people that put you in the right place and respond the right way. Watch what God does.
We have the opportunity to multiply what God has given us, but we can't see the reward if we're holding back the seed of return. Use what God has given you to do what he has called you to do. Your investment will be rewarded exponentially.
Stop telling God what you don't see, and instead believe the promise He made to you. Plant a seed of faith and refuse to just settle. Because even when you can't see the progress, God is still working during the process.
The type of thoughts we allow ourselves to think determine the amount of peace we have in our lives. So let's practice positive thoughts. Think on those things that are good and surround yourself with people who are doing the same. In this way we can take our thoughts captive and get to a place of perfect peace in God.
Your situation may look bad but your mindset doesn't have to be. Choose to see your situation based on who God is and not the other way around. Fix your focus on God and filter out the negative. No one said it would be easy, but it's not about how it looks, it's all about how you frame it.
Your life is moving in the direction of your strongest thought. If you think on negative things you will get negative things. So pick up the word and learn to rewire your mind, because from your mouth flows life and what you say is what you get.
When it comes to winning the war within your mind, the atmosphere around you has a major affect. If you want your mind to line up with your calling examine the things around you. God didn't call you out of your old lifestyle for you to stay there.
Your life is a seed waiting to be planted, but you can't grow going and not doing. You have to be willing to dig deep, burying yourself in the word of God and taking root in Him in the field He has prepared for you.
God has called us to be fisher of men, but we can't catch what we aren't fishing for. And while the competition is fierce in this battle for souls, our God is greater than the enemy's hold. So throw out your line and let God work. The people around you are waiting to be hooked.
Whatever it is you're going through, it's not yours to worry about. Let go of it and swim towards Jesus because God wants to turn your troubles into triumphs.
The enemy is fishing for you, and he has the perfect bait. If he can get you to listen and look, then he can get you hooked. So what are you looking at; who are you listening to? Remember the choices you make don't just have consequences for you.
You've been hooked by the gift of Jesus, now it's time to cast out your net. Don't worry about what you catch. Just tell your story and let God do the rest.
It's time to get up and be about God's business. Who are you serving? What are you serving? Where are you serving? Are you serving?
God has called us to His glory, to walk out the calling He has for our lives. That means we should be intentional about what we're doing and who we're doing it with. We should labor in love and grow together, working towards the common goal of building the body of Christ.
During this Q&A service, Pastors Russ and Chrissy Emanuel answer questions, imparting what they've learned along this journey about the family.
Life is full of challenges, but we can't give up in the face of conflict. We have to put in work to make it through the storm, and by seeking God first we can make sure we're standing. Put your focus on Him and your foundation will be solid. So when adversity comes your way, you can hustle through the problem.
Have you spent the time to dig your well? How deep is your well? Do you see enough to sustain your own faith for God? If you answered no to all of these questions, it’s time you learn how to begin with your well.
The Lord does not need you to get it together. He will meet you where you are in your mess. He's just waiting for you to come. Give yourself away and be all in. He's waiting right now.
With opportunity comes opposition, and the enemy is always looking for an alley way to distract you with. The world is full of adversaries lying in wait to confuse you, so protect your family; cover your house, and protect your heart with the blood of Jesus. Paint your post outside before the enemy destroys the inside.
There’s a different calling on each family, but the order of things should be the same. God should be number one and everything else will flow in rhythm. Parents set the cadence in your home. Take the time, to make time for your priorities. Set the pace to stay the course on this race.
God is the owner of everything; we steward what he has given us. Parents, God has given you your children to lead, not to hold on to. Train them in the way they should go and they will hit their mark when you release them. Trust the process to let them fly, and watch God use your dedication to lead them to their purpose.
Parents, take aim for your family’s destination, purpose, in God. Keep Him at the center, or your foundation will come falling down. Your perspective on His blessings can burden others’ reach towards the target. Be an example for your children; if you don’t teach your children, then who will?
The Church is a movement, one that became big because of the boldness of people. People who were doing something for the kingdom of God. Something that was extraordinary and beyond their walls of comfort. Because doing the work of the ministry came from who they were. So what about you; who do you belong to and what are you doing to be bold?
Do you know who you are, and whose you are? If not, then how are you planning to find out? The only way to figure out who you are, is to know whose you are. You belong to the Lord our God; the one that provides your identity, while pushing you into your purpose. Now let your destiny be shaped by your decisions, not by your position.
Religion teaches people to modify their behavior without changing their hearts. Now, a relationship with God offers modified behaviors and changed hearts, because His grace is sufficient for all. God does not promote preference over process. Nobody is perfect, we all have problems, but salvation comes by faith and not by the work of man.
When life gets too rough, we want to start giving up. Why not start giving in? Give in to not being comfortable. Not being able to stay where you are in certain situations, because in those moments you are not where God needs you be. He has your purpose already set up for you. When will you realize you’re not immune to the process?
Opposition is certain when we're all in for Jesus. So we cannot be self centered, while trying to be about that life. Let's make up our minds to be bold. We will not be moved, nor will we be silenced, but we will stand on His word and declare His name great in all the earth.
Prayer, it is equivalent to calling someone in order to communicate. Yet, most of us don’t even know how to pick up the phone. Not only do we need to start praying, but we need to start praying bold prayers out loud. Keeping His words to ourselves isn’t going to help grow His Kingdom.
We can't stand still and carry the message of Jesus, because the Church is a movement that requires participation. The mission is calling you to willingly move, not just go through motions. Now go step outside of your comfort zone, and reach beyond the walls.
There are times where unfaithfulness to His word is unintentional. We get carried away with everyday lives and put certain minorities above the main priority. So we blame the one who can make a move in our current situation, believing Jesus doesn’t notice the storms in our lives. If we could only recognize His presence in the mist of it all. He shows up at all times, but are we showing up at the right time?
Just because your situation looks dead, that does not mean it is. The enemy has attacked your mind with thorns of negativity, and wants you to surrender in defeat. Yet Jesus has come to conquer it all just so you can be made whole. What once appeared dead, will rise to life again.
Leadership requires knowing who you are, yet who you are is based on who you come from. And you are a child of God, that will never change! Don't confuse your identity with the roles you are given to fulfill His purpose. Remember that a great leader focuses on the vision and not the position.
If we're going to be successful in our walk with God we need to make sure we're in His presence. Taking the time to pray, read, and fast helps us to grow in our relationship with Him. We should strive to develop daily in obedience, knowing we can't do our own thing, while trying to thrive in God.
Is submitting to God equivalent to surrendering unto Him? The answer is No, surrender goes much deeper into a relationship with God. Yet, both of these are required of us throughout our walk with Christ. Jesus used prayer as his defensive weapon. Which inevitably makes prayer the ultimate submission. Without it during our suffering, or our low place, we cannot voluntarily choose His will over our own.
Sometimes we find ourselves so focused on what God promised us, that we forget the purpose he's given us. When we're faithful and obedient to His plan, everything else will fall into place. But you can't receive what God has for you following Him at a distance. So the question is, do you want to close the gap?
Choices, this is what determines the outcome of our situations. Before we make a decision, comprise our calling to fit the choices we’ve already made, or compare these outcomes to those who seem to have it all, we should check the condition of our hearts. Because those are just distractions that tune out His voice. The question is will you turn Him up, and tune everything else out?
Just as God has a plan for your life, so does the enemy. He's speaking to your weaknesses and planning his attack. But if you're staying in God's word and listening to His voice you can prepare yourself to respond. So how will you counter the tactics of the enemy?
The best way to have voice recognition is repetition. But what are you repetitively listening to? His word, or your own? In order to keep the ability to hear God speak, you have to stay in his word. In doing so, you’ll find that you’re not the only one tuned into Him. But are you surrounding yourself with those that know the voice of God?
God gives seed to the sower, but selfish seeds can never be sown. We find ourselves strapped when we sow into earthly things more than sowing into God's people. But when we put forth the effort to help others with a generous heart, we reap a harvest for God that will never stop producing. So ask yourself: am I looking for a blessing or looking to be a blessing?
Being strapped is not our hold on the world, instead it is the worlds’ leash around us. In order to change our circumstances we have to be willing to take on the challenges we face and embrace the change it brings. If we can’t be good stewards over the small things, then how can we expect God to make us rulers over many? Ask yourself this: do you want to become mentally stretched, or will you be physically strapped?
Even though it appears as if the enemy has won, just remember, the game's not over. However, we can't win just going through the motions. But we can when using His word to guide our emotions.
Just because we are able to seize multiple opportunities, it doesn’t mean we are able to avoid all obstacles. But by choosing to sow into His Kingdom, we are choosing to put God First. In doing that, our doubt and worries fall away. He begins to change the condition of our hearts, because God is The Provider.
God never changes, but His methods that draw us towards The Source do. He calls us to see beyond the drought and draw near The Source. See God has already equipped us to follow through with His strategy. He uses where we are now to prepare us for what’s to come. But are we willing to put Him first, or will we remain in the drought?
Are you busy? Life can be busy, but it can't become so busy it shifts our focus from God. When we don’t make him our first priority minor issues become major problems. And if we stop in the middle of the problem, we'll forget the reason why we even began. So as we begin a new year, let's shift our focus back to Him and plan our schedule inside of His.
God gave us the tools to be fisher of men, but we need to know the hearts of those we're fishing for. When we adjust our techniques to fit each situation, His plan will begin to work for the glory of the kingdom. Just like iron sharpens iron, we should be disciples that sharpen other disciples.
Don't bind yourself within the walls of a grudge. Your calling is too big, and life is too short for you to be living offended. Some say it's too hard to forgive, but you can't afford not to. Let it go!
God won’t let us struggle in the present for labels that we’re given in the past. Just because you’ve done “this”, doesn’t mean you are “that”. Those labels can be lifted, because we have an attainable amount of praise on the inside that needs to be shown on the outside. Soon we will not focus on the labels we are given in the world, but will believe in who we are in Him!
More freedom reigns inside the boundaries. Yet the enemy uses our shame to make us believe that those boundaries are restricting. God reminds us that the boundaries he creates in our lives are not meant to limit our explorations outside, but are meant for us to experience our expectations inside. God will not allow the shame of your past to end His game for your future.
God's love is concerned for the condition of His people; we should be also. There's a treasure within us that's worth more than what we can see on the outside. Carry this treasure to others, and be committed to seeing it through to the promise. Because God wants His greater; not our good enough!
We can never love anyone else if we’ve never experienced the love of God. Learning how to neighbor means learning how to become like Him. His love has never prejudged us, so why do we continue to prejudge others? This life is not about you, it’s about how others can see the love of God in you.
We must remember that we are kings and priests; God has called us to be both. He has given us power and authority, but we must be willing to sacrifice for Him. Because His plan is greater than any of us, yet requires much from all of us.
When we begin learning to serve, it changes how we act on the outside and brings us to become like God on the inside. Even though we feel our service is minute in quantity, God sees it as gigantic in quality. Do not despise small beginnings, start serving somewhere!
Do not let your hustle stop with your failure. Since hustle has already been put inside of you, begin to shape your heart in his presence. How many opportunities have you missed because you’re not hustling with some heart? It is real easy to hustle when you are winning, but will you continue the hustle when you are losing?
You can not receive God's will your way. You have to serve the plan God has for you. It may not be pretty, but the pain has a purpose to get you a promotion, if you follow the process.
What drives our hustle? The calling that God has for our lives inclines us to get to work. Your hustle should push you to become a better you, and empower others in the process. You can’t download purpose, you have to dig purpose out. Continue to seek God with your heart, so you can keep your hustle in check.
What God has for you is already yours. Step into your calling with a heart for Him and action that reflects that. Your appointment has already been scheduled. Will you show up?
We’ve all been crushed up and beaten down by this life. But are we gonna let that hinder us from doing the work of His Kingdom? He takes the good, the bad, and the ugly to shape and mold us to His glory. He’s not interested in where we’ve been, but where we’re going.
If we're going to honor God with our lives we can't just watch from the sidelines. God is waiting on us to make some things happen. So let's get up and go! We're not waiting on a move of God, we are a move of God.
God won't allow us to stay in one place. He reassures us to progress in this walk with Him, but we have to be willing to make room for Him to work in us. This is a repetitious act that He wants us to continue everyday. So make room for the process so your walk with Him can progress.
You're afraid of the mountain in front of you, but you have the power to move it. Operate within that power. Speak to the mountain! Make it move!
Description 9/10/17
Are we willing to submit the plans we have for our lives to God's will? We believe the "shortcuts" that we take will bring us to our future, instead they only end up turning us around. But we will never go in circles when we listen to the Holy Spirit inside. So decide to lean in and listen, right now!
God is speaking to you, but you can't hear above your sin. He never said you wouldn't have trials, but He did promise another would come to comfort you. And in the middle of your storm, regardless of where you are, His spirit is still with you. So while waiting for the storm to pass, worship in His presence. Because His promise still stands, even when you don't hear Him.
Jesus has called us to "Come a little closer" and "Go a little deeper", in return challenging our faith by putting it to work. Yet when we want God to bring us out of the storm, He begins to take us through it instead. Jesus shows us that He will never leave our side, because He has come "just as he was". Leaving us with the question: Which will we allow to become greater? The storm inside us or Him that lives in us?
You've been suffering for a little while, but remember that breakthrough is yours. Press into God's presence, seek Him in prayer, praise Him through your trials. There's power in God's presence! But you can't get there waiting for someone to move you.
Breakthrough is already yours, you just have to walk it out. Walk it out God's way by putting Him first and allowing Him to work in you. In this way, you finish His instructions completely and set the standard for things to come. Trust God in the process and you will see progress.
Before you take a step into breakthrough, while in the process, you have to hear from God first. But in order for him to work in us, we have to take that next step to not just stand in breakthrough, but push through it!
The enemy has placed your problems front and center to keep you distracted. But God has given you a purpose, and He's waiting on you to birth it. Stop making excuses for why you can't, when God gave you evidence that you can. Your break through is already yours, now act like it.
We shouldn't wait until failure happens to get close with God, instead let's be willing to continue through His plan for our lives. The enemy wants us to think our failures are final, in return bringing us down. But God reminds us to take the focus off ourselves, and give it to the one who's bigger than all our problems, Him.
God is able to bring us through any circumstance. But when we don't pray with a belief of its present existence, our faith will never grow. And without faith, it is impossible to please God, or even change according to his vision for our lives. Continue to diligently seek after God to manifest a comeback in your own life.
“I'll do something for you if you do something for me” is the mentality most people have about God today. But God is not looking to make transactions with you, He wants to transform you. You just have to let go of the baggage you're carrying. Bring it to the altar and give it up so you can go up!
God will go silent when we try to work our plan over His purpose. But just because God's not speaking, it does not mean He's not there. You can be compliant but not committed, but if you're going to be committed you have to be in compliance. Therefore we need to become available and make some space to hear a word from God.
God is looking for a personal relationship with you, which requires sacrifice and submission. But you can't get there being unaligned. Stop trying to fix what God wants to change and find your way to the altar so that your life can be altered. Allow Him to change your heart, your head, and your hands so you can do the work He has called you to do.
The desire of the Son, is to please the heart of the Father. We, Sons of God, need to find submission through our significance in success. God doesn't want us to view our success in what we accomplish, but to willingly point the glory of the outcome to Him. When we realize greatness is measured by our willingness to submit to authority, our stage of sonship will begin to elevate.
Parents be good stewards over your children; children be obedient to your parents. The enemy is out to destroy everything the Lord holds dear because your family is valuable to God. And as children of God we should desire to hold together what He has established and let nothing or no man tear it apart.
God has called you to bring others to His table! Yet we are too worried about not having a seat for ourselves, instead of the those who actually need one. Pride does not allow us to relate to who and where new followers are, and in order for us to become one of His disciples we have to willing to get involved. So why are we too worried about not having a seat for ourselves, when we should be finding one for those who need one.
The church is a table where people come to be fed. But just because you're seated doesn't mean you stay in one chair. Push away from the table when you're full and move to the next chair. Because the proof is in the process, but you can't reach others if you're always waiting to be fed.
Believers want to see miracles and ministry is messy. Yet people don't realize that in order to see a miracle you'll have to deal with the mess. If we want to have a seat at His table then we will have to lead and feed each other's needs. But if you don't know how to feed yourself, then how do you expect to reach others?
Sometimes we feel empty, like we've given all we can and have nothing left to give. It may seem all hope is lost and there's no one who cares. Yet little do we know that God has already given us life in and life out. Life that allows Him to pour into you so that you can pour out to others. He desires to have a relationship with you. You just have to let go of your issues and let God take care of the mess.
God is going to bring something together in us that we can't even imagine. It's time to be bold in the battle, because our victory is ensured through the triumph of the battle. God can use anyone, anywhere, at anytime; so why can't He use you? The Lord has already spoken over your life, He's just waiting for you to step into your destiny by allowing Him to work in you. Therefore we have to take root in Him, before we can grow into our prophetic moment. It's time to pursue, it's time to engage, it's time to put your faith into action!
If you want to grow in life it's going to take some action, and every now and again it takes a little correction. But just because we make mistakes doesn’t mean we can't celebrate. Jesus sacrificed His life so that we can celebrate what God has corrected, because God is the God of relationships not rules. And the celebration is not about being perfect, it's about enduring the process.
Philippians 3:13-14 says, “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” We all have goals in life; things we must achieve for the sole purpose of something greater. But we can't achieve those goals if we're not willing to stretch beyond a lie, the lie the enemy wants you to believe, that your Limitations can be used as Intimidation to make you live in your unmet Expectations. Because had Jesus believed the lie, He would not have achieved the goal set forth through resurrection. So keep pressing toward the mark in spite of the enemy's lie. Your goal is up ahead, you just have to be willing to reach for it.
Acts 4:13 says, "When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus." One of the our greatest attributes to attracting people to God, is being real. Being real for Christ attracts those far from God, because we can relate through our struggles. Even though we're only ordinary people, God has called us to complete his extraordinary work! Yet authenticity is a must when laying down your platform in him. It's easy to decipher the difference between a relationship and a religion, because real people reach people. But can others recognize that you've been in the presence of Jesus in your walk of faith?
Acts 3:7-8 says, “Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God.” If you're going to get anything from God you have to be willing to stretch for it. You have to be willing to take the opportunities presented to you and go after the miracle. But you can't lay down on the problem. You have to make a move toward the miracle. You have to get up, go up, and grow up. Now the question is, are you up for it?
Acts 3:2-6 says, "Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them." God leaves his mark when we stretch our faith, because He wants to do something through us. It is easier to watch someone else preform His works, instead of completing the same tasks ourselves. But God is constantly trying to stretch our mindset, and grow his kingdom within us so we can reach others far from God and lead them to live a God-First Life!
1 Corinthians 12:12-13 says, “Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.” God has given to each of us gifts to perform efficiently for the body of Christ, and in order to be efficient we must do things right. We cannot be lazy, complacent, or full of excuses. However, we must have balance in our lives, so that when those who are broken come to us for help, we are able to help them. In this way they reap the benefits of the Church, and receive the gift of life that Christ so freely offers.
1 Timothy 6:17 says, "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment." You will run out of time before you run out of money, so today is the day to stop your hope from migrating from God, because the greatest decision of your life is right around the corner. It's called the planning stage, or the process, in which God is equipping you to handle things later down the road. This helps us remember that God gives us wealth as a resource that will sustain us through survival in this world, but that He is the source from which all things come.
According to society being rich means having a lot of money and striving to gain even more. However, there is a richness on the inside of you that is greater and will far outlive the wealth you gain on the outside. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” You were created for a purpose; to use what God has given you and pour into the lives of others. In this way you should strive to be rich in good deeds and share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world. But what are you doing with the wealth that lives inside of you? Are you using it to make the name of Jesus famous, or are you saving it for yourself while the world remains in debt?
1 Timothy 6:17 says, "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment." God is more concerned with the consistency of our giving rather than the amount of our gift. By remembering that wealth is just a resource, or supplier, we soon realize that wealth will not sustain us. Therefore, when we're connected to the source, i.e. Jesus Christ, He gives us the resources to supply our needs. So when we pre-decide to put our hope in the ultimate source, we activate our faith to receive blessings from the one who richly provides.
Society today will tell you the more money you have the more secure your life will be. However, money is unstable and won't sustain you, but when we fix our focus on God we become rich in Him. 1 Timothy: 6:18-19 says, “Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” We must be willing and able to give of what we have regardless of our trials. We must look at our situations through God instead of seeing God through our situations. And even though it may look hopeless, if we put in God's hands He can do more than we could ever imagine and sustain us for an even greater purpose.
People everyday are desperately trying to become rich in this world, whether it's material or financial reasonings. Yet this desire is fueled by the spirit of comparison, which is a killer for the souls on fire for Christ. In 1 Timothy 6:17 it says, "command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment." Meaning we are all rich in the eyes of God, given to us by his glory! Most rich people today are plagued by the feeling of in-contentment and never finding true happiness, or true joy, but its not what we do, its who we are. That true feeling is in the Lord, who we need to trust in to provide us our riches once promised.
John 16:33 says, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." In your life there will be trials; there will be times when you feel like giving up, but Jesus gave His life so that you may overcome. Take comfort in knowing you are not alone in the Battle, because God has not forgotten you. Yet He has sent His son before you, Jesus Christ, who has already conquered the fight.
Often times we get discouraged because the situation we're in doesn't look how we imagined. But Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." God has not left you alone in your trial. He is preparing you for the seed He is going to plant, but you must be patient in your waiting and faithful in your walk. And although your beginning may be seem like a disaster, your ending is in His hands and it’s full of promise.
Don't give up what you want most in life for something you think you want now. Romans 7:20 says, “Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.” Your thoughts become your words, your words lead to your actions, and your actions become your habits. In order to tame sin there must be something living on the inside of you that is greater than the outside cares of the world. That something is Jesus. We must be disciplined in our walk to choose healthy habits, which will lead to consistency in all aspects of our lives. Is Christ inside of you greater than what you want right now? The choice is yours.
Do your words have life-giving qualities or life-taking qualities?Proverbs 18:21 says, "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." We can choose to produce words that bring life or death, and since what we say really matters, we have to watch the fruit we've been eating from. Life-taking words have the power to not only damage, but to potentially destroy any relationship in our lives. Instead be around life-giving people, who are willing to build others up so they can reach their full potential!
Stinking thinking can lead to dirty living! Now that I have your attention, what are you thinking? The enemy will present you with negative thoughts and believing them may cause you to miss out on God's blessings. Psalm 77:11-12 says, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds." Hope has a name; Jesus. If you want to be used for the glory of God then you must trust in Him and think of his goodness, so you can overcome any obstacle!
Zechariah 4:10 says, " Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin". The house of God was made for those who don't have it all together; allowing him to take the people that are rejected by the world, and inject them into His Kingdom. Now even though the world views us as who we used to be, God sees who we're gonna be in Him, but it only takes a small decision to make a big difference in any situation. In order to make a big difference in any situation, your perspective has to change to put His plan in action. So stop complaining about the difficult situations in life and start thanking God for working through them.
The greatest gift ever given was not wrapped in a box or placed under a tree, but He was wrapped in the love of God and given freely unto man. Romans 5:15 says, “But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God's grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many!” No matter the sin committed, it cannot outdo God's love. For wherever sin abounds, there is grace given in the gift of Jesus Christ out of the overflow of God's love. Allow God's love to overflow through you so others may come to know the goodness of Jesus Christ. Be the gift that keeps on giving.
If we feel like we're receiving under-flow instead of overflow in our lives, then we've allowed the enemy to take a seat at the table the Lord has prepared for us. Psalm 23:5 says, " You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows". People come to Christ when their life enters a state of crisis, but the Zenith of God's love shows up in any difficult circumstance. This makes us worthy of an overflow when our praise dictates our circumtance. So stop projecting the rejection you thought you were receiving and thank Him for His provison, protection, and for Your position in His presence.
At times on the journey of life, our situations may seem like too much to make it through. But on the other side of that burden is a blessing God has just for you. Hebrews 10:23 says, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” Faith always sees the victory, but what's blocking your blessing? You now have access to the presence of God, through the blood of Jesus Christ, so you can make it to the other side. You just have to get there! So whatever the weight you're carrying, lay it at His feet and push towards victory in spite of what you see.
In order for our capacity to grow, we have to be challenged! When was the last time you gave above your capacity? 2 Corinthians 8:5 says, “[Macedonians] And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us.” We need to be willing to be challenged, so we can challenge others. If not, then we will become content, which leads to complacency that destroys our destiny. Instead of saying “I would if I could”, start saying “I can, and I will!” And the only way to challenge the contentment of your condition is to start right where you are with what you've got.
In the middle of your situation, God has not left you. He has His hands on you, and He said He'll see you through. Jeremiah 18:5-6 says, “Then the word of the Lord came to me. He said, ‘Can I not do with you, Israel, as this potter does?’ declares the Lord. ‘Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, Israel.’” Just as the potter molds the pot, God is molding you for His purpose. The question is, what are you going to do with what He's put inside of you? What are you holding in your pot that needs to be poured out? What are you taking in to fulfill your purpose for God? And are you willing to endure the process so that God can be made famous?
God doesn't ask us to do the impossible, that's His job; but He does ask us for our praise. 2 Samuel 6:21 says, "... I will celebrate before the Lord." Our praise must start somewhere because we all have something to praise God for, and He deserves the highest praise because we owe Him so much. Yet it cannot be forced, but freely given unto Him so He knows that the praise He'll receive will be unconditional, unwavering, and unfeigned!
No matter who you are, what you do, or where you're from, disagreements are a guarantee in life. The key, however, is how you choose to respond to them. 1 Corinthians 1:10 says, “I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.” But how do we walk in unity when society projects division? How do we begin to make a change in a world focused on hate? We do it by walking in love; we do it by making the union stronger than the disagreement, and we do it by looking beyond society's projections of the world. If we're going to make a change, we do it by starting with “me”! The “me” God has called you to be.
There are 2 types of people in this world; those that have been hurt, and those that are going to get hurt. The world trains us to hide our hearts with masks that God is trying to remove. Psalm 46:1 reads, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." This verse encourages us to find hope, healing, and comfort in God. Because, there is no way to avoid the hurt, we need to turn to the one that can take it away. God never promised we would not get hurt, but He did promise to NEVER forsake us during the hurting!
It's in our nature to hide our sin, and what's foremost on our minds will manifest itself in our lives. Psalm 139:23-24 says, “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Nobody is exempt from the consequences of sin. The choices you make now will impact those you love later. You can choose to conceal your sin today, or you can choose to confess it and take off the mask. God's love is unfailing and if you trust Him with your issues, He will provide healing like only He can. So what are you hiding in your heart today? What are you hiding behind the mask?
Proverbs 15:31-32 reads, "Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding." Self-deception leads to self-destruction when we wear our masks so long that it becomes normal. The manipulation of the world convinces us that we're always right, rather than being wrong when it comes to our 'best' qualities. When we follow the Steps to Live in Truth we become prepared for God to show us the area in our lives that needs to be unmasked. The longer we view ourselves through a distorted lens, the easier it is to believe a distorted truth, and even easier to believe the mask in the mirror.
Luke 10:33-34 says, “But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him.” Often times we see others in need and pretend we're not aware. We put up a mask to their situation because it requires more than we’re willing to give. But the attitude of your heart reflects the activity of your mind. It is not enough to know to do good, but you must do it as well. And when you experience the love of Jesus, you should willingly extend it to others. So take off your mask! Someone, somewhere needs your help. And just as Jesus stretched out His hand to you, you should go and do likewise.
Get ready to be faithful while being flexible. Genesis 11:31 says, "... and together they set out from Ur of the Chaldeans to go to Canaan. But when they came to Haran, they settled there." Often times we settle for less than the best of what God has for us. But settling lowers our faith in God and keeps us from the process of development. In this process you won't be alone because you have Jesus, and those who notice the change brewing in your life. Typically movement attracts people, and God requires us to draw near to others as we draw near to him. So find the motivation to continue on your journey and encourage others to do the same along the way. And remember that we are not better than one another, but rather Better Together!
Luke 5:18-19 says, “Some men came carrying a paralyzed man on a mat and tried to take him into the house to lay him before Jesus. When they could not find a way to do this because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus.” The world today is trying to fix sin with a band aid from the society, but the only way to truly wash away sin is with the blood of Jesus. God has called you to reach people far from Him. And while getting people to God will not be easy, it's a miracle in the making that IS worth every moment. So remain determined and dedicated to the mission of deliverance, and get people to Jesus by any means necessary.
God has promised rain in your dry season. And although you feel like you're alone, know that God has not left you nor will He forsake you. But during the process of His plan, He is preparing you for a purpose. Galatians 6:9 says, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” We want God to take us out of what He wants to take us through. But just because you haven't seen progress, doesn't mean He's not moving in your situation. Are you willing to stay in position even though you can't see the rain?
As we put forth the effort to work efficiently for Jesus, we become effective in a dying world. Ephesians 4:12 says, "prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up". God knows you don't have it all together, yet he still calls on you because he wants to work through you. God doesn't call on the prepared, he prepares the called. In order to put some effort, towards God's calling for your life, there are some things you've got to leave behind. He wants you to remember who you used to be, and still know the person he's making you become. And that is an unstoppable force for the kingdom of God.
Live life on purpose. God has called you to reach those that are far from Him, even if you don't feel you're qualified. 2 Timothy 1:9 says, “He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time.” Often times we get so caught up in the now, that we can't see His "wow". But God wants to display his glory throughout the whole world, through us. However, if we don't know His purpose for our life, then we can't execute the plan He has for us. No matter the situation, keep your focus on why you do what you do, and He will see you through. Allow HIM to work in YOU so that He can work through YOU.
Life change happens in the context of relationships, and little distractions can become big divisions. However God desires unity. 1 Corinthians 9:19 says, “Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible.” Use what God has given you to complete the mission of his vision; to reach people far from God leading them to experience a God first life. We must be willing to work through any distraction to accomplish our assignment together rather than alone. Because we are better together and teamwork makes His dream work.
Acts 2:46-47 says, “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Your purpose here on earth is greater than you know and it all begins with everyone around you. The relationships you have should be leading others to Jesus and creating disciples. The question is, who are you leading? It's time for you to get behind the mission and uphold the vision. God has called on you to reach those that are far from Him, leading them to a life that is fully devoted to Christ. The mission is multiplication and nothing is impossible because the mission is unstoppable.
Mark 14:35-36 says, “Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him. "Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." The enemy is out to kill, steal, and destroy, and his weapon of choice is fear. But the center and subject of God's will is faith. And in this battle for your soul you can either trust God and go forward or let fear take you backwards. Everyone goes through something in their life, and right now you may be down but you're definitely not out. Press forward in God by your faith and you will remain victorious in the battle zone.
Philippians 1:4-6 says, “In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” The enemy is always looking for a way to make you doubt yourself, and you can't operate in the capacity of your calling if you're not confident. But if you place your faith in Jesus, he will give you the strength you need to carry out His plan for you. So, what is God calling you to do? Do you have confidence in knowing that He will see you through?
John 14:26 says, “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” The moment you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior you were filled with the Holy Spirit. However, sometimes the enemy can make us believe that just because we failed we are not filled. But on this journey called life, the Holy Spirit is your navigation system and will guide you with truth whenever you feel lost. And as you're exposed to what God is trying to do through you, your faith will increase and allow you to grow and operate in your calling.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 says, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” The enemy is working hard everyday to make sure you quit before you fulfill the purpose God has for your life. However, as hard as he's working to deter you, the Holy Spirit is working even harder within you. In your time of trouble the Holy Spirit will comfort you, advocate for you, and challenge you to be better than you ever thought you could be. And as you use what God has deposited in you to live out his purpose for your life, you will gain fulfilment. Fulfillment from knowing you are making things happen for the kingdom of God.
God truly desires to have a relationship with you. So much so that He sent His son Jesus so that your life may be salvaged from a life of sin. However His gift to you did not end there. 2 Corinthians 13:14 says, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” Although Jesus could not stay, God gave you His Holy Spirit, another part of himself, so that you could be connected back to Him. So that the oneness of the Father, The Son, and the Holy Spirit could maintain your relationship even in His absence. Therefore, He lives on the inside of you, but the question is, are you opening yourself up to be filled by Him?
Matthew 28:18-19 says, “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,’.” The world today is all about reaching others when it benefits their best interests. However, we can't reach people far from God if we're too busy serving ourselves. We must selflessly commit ourselves to going out and telling others about Jesus, compelling them to come and find out for themselves what a relationship with Him really means. It won't be easy, nor will it always go as planned, but it's not about us, it's about Jesus. And leading those who are lost closer to Him is what truly matters.
God has a plan for your life. It may not make sense when you're in the middle of going through, but don't give up in the process because you think it's too hard. The process shapes and molds you into who He has called you to be, while growing your faith in Him as you walk into your destiny. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Have the faith to finish what God started in you. Because you are a masterpiece in the making, and you were made for this.
Check out this video after the message to connect with the experience. https://youtu.be/T3KwpmVHRpw
Psalm 39:5 says, “You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.” Timing is everything, and what you do with the time you have matters to the life of those in your family. Life is too short so you should appreciate every second and create memories that will last forever. But more importantly, you should be intentional with your time and how you spend it. So what are you doing with your time? Are you living a meaningful life? Does it reflect your faith in God so that it leads your family toward Jesus? Make decisions that lead your family down the right path. The time is now.
Who you are in Christ is not defined by where you are nor is it defined by the past situations in your life. It is, however, the platform from which your children will shape their own perspective of God. Focusing on the negative sitautions of your past keeps you from having faith in the purpose God has for you and your future. And how you view God in your life will reflect in your actions and lifestyle. While your children may not listen to what you say, they will see and imitate the things that you do. Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” If you don't instill a positive perspective of God into your children, culture will instill the perspective of the world. So what is your perspective of God today? The future of your children begins with it.
A family is made up of different people with different personalities and different perspectives on life which sometimes cause minor disagreements. However, if we're not careful small things can become major conflicts. Colossians 3:13 says, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” The enemy dwells in your differences trying to turn your conflicts into separation. But we have the choice to forgive others as God has forgiven us. We must be willing to practice forgiveness daily so that bitterness does not take root in our hearts. We must extend to others the grace we have experienced through Jesus and love each other despite our differences. Now the question remains; Have you forgiven others as you would have God forgive you?
Romans 8:30 says, “And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.” Not one of us is deserving of the free gift given to us through the crucifixion of Jesus. But because God loves us, He gave us His son so that we may be reconciled back to Him. However, the way you live your life is a choice and while the world is full of sin, it is not an excuse to be led by it. You can choose to live for God. He's already validated your life with the blood of his son Jesus, but the question is will you accept His justification?
God doesn't regard any of us as being greater or lesser than the other and His love for us is the same no matter who or what we are. And just as God makes no difference between His children, you should make no difference between yours. Playing favorites between your children can have a negative impact on your family. It can turn into deception based on selfish motives which can lead to destruction and division. Instead you should affirm your children and appreciate their individuality.God always has a plan and will use their differences for a greater purpose than we know. So speak the truth about their differences in love and create a cycle of honesty that has a positive impact on generations to come.
The world will tell your family that greater things in life are outside of the boundaries you've set, but will fail to mention that one moment of gratification can lead to a lifetime of distress. Don't let the world's influence be the only one your children know. Establish the boundaries of God within your home so that you can protect them from great harm or death. Hebrews 12:11 says, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Use your power of influence to preserve the lives of your children and generations to come so that God's purpose can be fulfilled and they can know the benefits of boundaries.
Your family is valuable to God and He has given you the charge of taking care of them. However, with this responsibility comes accountability, and God is expecting you to show them the right way in which to go. Deuteronomy 11:18-19 says, “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” He expects you to develop the things He has deposited and He will do amazing things with what you invest in. So, what are you doing with what God has given you? Don't let the enemy distract you from your responsibility. Stay focused and God will show himself faithful in the life of your family.
The enemy is always on the job to destroy you and take everything you have away. However, you have an advantage over your enemy; God. 1 Samuel 17:45 says, “David said to the Philistine, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.” The enemy wants to intimidate you with your Goliath, but God wants to prove himself true in your life. Have faith in His word and believe that God will do what He said He will do and that no weapon formed against you shall prosper. So now, what are you going to do about the Goliath in your life?
1 Samuel 17:45 says, ‘David said to the Philistine, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.” The enemy will always attack what God has anointed, but your battles are training ground for what God wants to do in you. However, you can't win the battle with the weapons of the enemy. Your victory depends on your approach, so don't fight the enemy on his terms. Learn to turn away from his accusations and keep your distance from the things he provokes you with. The enemy can't defeat you if he can't reach you. Learn to win with what you have so you don't fight the right battle the wrong way.
1 Corinthians 15:10 says, “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.” God has placed something special on the inside of each of us. It is His desire that we make decisions that help us grow in these gifts. We should embrace who we are, no matter what, and diligently work at developing what He has deposited in us. Life is full of choices and decisions that will eventually make you who you are. Operate in excellence and allow God to shape you so you can connect others to Him. Make the decision to walk out what God has put inside of you.
Have you ever felt like you dont have what it takes to be something or somebody great? Culture wants you to believe that it's your outward appearance that determines who you are. However God says it's all about the inward condition of your heart. You have been appointed by God to operate under the anointing He has for your life. And while the world may not view you as valuable, God does and He wants to use the place you are to help you grow in Him. Colossians: 2:10 says, “and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.” God is the qualifier, and He has already approved you. You have nothing to prove to the world and only Him to please.
Luke 22:61-62 says, “The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: "Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times." And he went outside and wept bitterly.” There will be times in our lives when we don't understand the things that are going on and feel as if we don't deserve the grace of God. But it’s not about how you start the race, it's about how you finish. Christianity is all about progress and no one is exempt from failure. However failure doesn't mean giving up. It means continuing on your journey and exercising your faith despite the fall. And while Jesus never fails He finished his journey strong when He died for our sins. God is a God that forgives, but the only way to finish strong with God is to start with God.
At times we may lose sight of who we are in Christ but it's our choice to make which master we serve. Sometimes we have to look back at our past in order to see that it was God who truly brought us out. We have done nothing to deserve salvation, yet He has saved us anyway. Ephesians 2:4-5 says, “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” So ask yourself, “if it had not been for God, where would I be?”.
In this Q&A service Pastor Russ Emanuel and his wife Chrissy Emanuel answer your questions and explain how to build the framework and foundation for a successful relationship. Cultures idea of a successful relationship is easy and comfortable without any complaints or problems. But a real relationship is not about being easy it's about being committed and standing strong no matter what. Matthew 7:24-25 says, "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.” No one is exempt from a storm, but enduring the storm depends on your foundation. If you put God at the center of it all and apply and practice his word in your life, you'll establish solid groundwork that keeps you better together. So what are you building your relationship on, culture or Christ?
Culture would have you believe that the best mind frame for relationships today is “what's in it for me?” However, a successful relationship is one that follows the blueprint of Christ. Colossians 3:12 says, “Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Replace condemnation with compassion. Build your spouse up to convince them of God's kindness and love and practice humility, gentleness, and patience. Without these qualities we are subject to point the finger instead of lifting a finger to help one another. Don't let what you're doing get in the way of who you're becoming. Embrace what God is wanting to do in your relationship and remember, your input determines your output.
Culture will tell you that in order to be happy you must have someone to be happy with. However, being single is not a weakness and you don't have to be someone's significant other to be significant. Your life is significant to God and He has great plans for you. Searching for the extraordinary but settling for ordinary will lead you to problems. Be patient. Be hungry enough to walk in humility and do the hard work to end up in the place of glory God has for you.
Galatians 6:8 says, “Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.” What are you planting in your relationship? Today's culture likes the concept of marriage but not the commitment. But having a great relationship is not about what you say but about what you sow. If you're committed to what God has called you to it will become a lifestyle. Make the decision to be dedicated to His plan.
In this special service we celebrate the transformation taking place in the lives of others through water baptism. No matter who you are, what you look like or what you’ve done, God wants you to come to Him as you are. The enemy is always working overtime to make you give up and throw in the towel. However we serve a God that is much bigger than any enemy we face. If we let go of our problems and put our faith in Him, we will be victorious and finish stronger than we ever could alone. Have faith to finish the fight. And no matter what don't quit, keep pounding.
John 11:5-6 says, “Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days.” Everyone goes through a dark time in their lives. And often times what we expect from God is not what we experience. But just because your situation appears lifeless doesn't mean it has died. God is always working in the background to prove himself greater. Don't lose sight of His promise because you're focused on the pain. Have hope through the process so you will experience a miracle. He’ll speak life into your situation and prove to you why He is the King of the Comeback.
1 John 2:1 says, “My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.” The enemy will use every tactic he has to block us from receiving what God has for us. He will have you believing that your sin is too dirty and you need to clean yourself up before coming to God. However, we cannot forgive ourselves. But we can come to God with a repentant heart and ask for His forgiveness. He loves us regardless of the mess that we put ourselves in and He has already forgiven us of our sins. So I ask you, what's blocking you from a relationship with God? What's keeping you from finding your flow?
Matthew: 7:21 says, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” God is not looking for fans, he's looking for followers. Society will tell you as long as your outside looks good then your inside doesn't matter. However God is not interested in the external costume you've created but the internal conviction of your heart. You can choose to pretend to have it together or submit to His will so that He can clean you up and put you together. You can choose to be a pretender or a playmaker. The choice is yours.
The Lord cast His seeds upon everyone. Even those who do not know Him because He sees your potential and knows your purpose. He has given you His word so that you may walk out this life with Him and will equip you to stand in the midst of the unknown. However, you must receive His word gladly and accept His son Jesus. Allow his word to penetrate your heart and receive the new life that awaits in Him. He’s waiting for you to make the choice. So the question now is, what kind of receiver are you?
When we face problems in our lives we become uncomfortable and expect God to show up and fix things the moment we call. Sometimes, however, God doesn't show up immediately because He has plans to show us something greater. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” Just when we think there's nothing else to be done, He moves and revives a dead situation, making an old thing like new. God needs the old to die so that He can do a new thing in you. And if you wait patiently on Him and walk in faith, you will witness an outbreak of his glory like never before.
How we end one season of our lives is a direct reflection on how we start the next season God has for us. As we move from 2015 into 2016, we are declaring that this will be a year that flows. Life is better with flow, yet it becomes frustrating when our flow is interrupted. Foreign objects block flow. This year do not allow anything block our flow. Faith helps us to find our flow and obedience keeps the flow flowing. As you enter into this new season we are praying that you find your flow until you experience overflow...Let it Flow, Let it Flow!
Everyone has problems but they shouldn’t be life’s focus. Don't allow them to overtake your life and become bigger than God. Empty yourself out so that God may pour himself in as you pursue His presence. In His presence reflect on His faithfulness and you will gain perspective as you move through the pain. Psalm 62:8 says, “Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” The enemy is always working overtime to distract you from what God has planned for you. However, God is always working behind the scenes to fulfill His purpose for you.
Before you ever gave anything to God He gave His son Jesus for you. Today the world wants blessings but doesn't want to give of themselves. Whether it be your time, talent, or treasure, God wants you to use what He has given you to bring glory to His name. Matthew 6:21 says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” People give to what they value. So ask yourself, what am I valuing the most and giving my life to?
The world today will have you believing that God should find you where you are. However God doesn't exist for us, but we exist to worship Him. Isaiah 55:6 says, “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.” You should seek Him no matter your circumstances and freely lift your hands to give him praise. You must submit your will to His and know that while the situation may not be good, He is working it for your good. Because He lives in your worship it is a weapon against the enemy. Believe that in your praise lies victory because you win with worship.
The foundation of a blessed life is based on obedience to God. You must learn to give what God says give and take what He is trying to give to you. It starts with your heart and believing that God is faithful to what He declares. Be true to who He has called you to be and take what He has given to you and give it to others. Put God first and honor Him in all that you do because the blessed life begins with obedience.
Malachi 3:10 says, “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” Many people believe that the tithe is all about money. However, God isn't after your money, He's after your heart. He wants to know that you trust Him enough to put Him first even in your tough times. He wants to know if He can trust you to be a good steward over what He's already blessed you with. So review your life and renew your mindset. Give God your very best, and walk in faith believing that He has already provided for your every need. He will honor your obedience.
Joshua 24:15 says, “But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Culture will tell you that what the majority is doing is the choice to make. And while the choice to stand for God is not the popular one, it is the powerful one. When you make the choice to stand for God you get to experience victory in Him. So make a decision about what you are going to do today. But know that where you end up in the future will not be by chance but by choice, so choose wisely.
Culture says the best way to live is the way of the world, but God gives you the choice to choose Him. Deuteronomy 28:1-2 says, “If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God.” The decisions you make today greatly affect your destiny. You have a choice. You can choose to be obedient and be blessed or to be disobedient and cursed. The choice is yours.
John 8:32 says, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” It is very important to know who’s truth you are seeking. The enemy is always on the clock and he wants to keep you distracted. He’ll do whatever it takes to keep you from the word of God because in God’s word lies the truth. But we must stand boldly and proclaim the truth about Jesus and walk in the this truth. In doing so we become a new creature in Him and see things in a way that we’ve never seen them before.
Genesis 37 23-24 says, “And it came to pass, when Joseph was come unto his brethren, that they stripped Joseph of his coat, the coat of many colors that was on him; and they took him, and cast him into the pit: and the pit was empty, there was no water in it.” Sometimes we find ourselves in the pit of our struggles wondering why and how we've gotten there. However when you have a desire and a dream to do something greater for God, the enemy will devise a plan to stop you. But you need to remember who you serve and trust that God is working it out for your good. You must believe that where you are is not the end. Your present location is not your final destination and you can come out of the pit.
The enemy wants the situations in your life to look like giants before you. He wants to trick you into believing you're not strong enough to face them. 1 Samuel 17:45 says, "Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied." God has already given you everything you need to fight the battle. His holy spirit within you lifts you above the enemy and will lead you to victory. You just have to step up with an attitude of confidence and speak to your situation with a voice of power through Christ. Your victory will be a testimony to those around you.
Every one has a voice and every one wants to be the voice you're listening to. But are you listening to the voice that really matters? Romans 8:1-2 says, "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." When God is in your situation all things are made new. If you allow Him to be your coach in life He will lead you to greatness. It doesn't matter what you've done or what other people say about you, the presence of God let's us know it's not over. He will clean you up and break the chains that bind you. You just have to choose Him as your coach and listen to His voice.
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” We were all uniquely designed by God to complete an assignment. However, it’s important that we operate in the design in which we were created for. Identifying yourself in Him means creating a relationship with Him and allowing Him to take root in your life. There are many seeds that can be planted in your spirit, but it is His seed that will lead you to a greater purpose. Therefore we must remain committed to the process and consistent in our walk. We must know our position, know our part, and know our purpose in Him. So stick to the plan He has for you and execute it because we were all built for this.
Ephesians 2:8 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” Unlike the television series The Voice, where someone turns their chair around based on a person’s performance, God does not turn His chair based on your performance. God’s chair was already turned for you and it was done so because of His love. The foundation of His love is not based on what you do but on your acceptance of Jesus and putting your faith in Him. So ask yourself, do you want to be on His team, the team of Jesus? And are you listening to the voice that really matters?
When you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, He didn't expect you to keep the good news to yourself. However, He does expect you to expose your relationship with Him to others so that His kingdom may grow. Proverbs 22:6 says, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." So ask yourself, "Do I have the right training to train others? " The people around you, especially your children, are directly affected by how you live your life. And just like Jesus has been multiplied in you, you should in turn multiply Him in others so that His kingdom is multiplied. Allowing Jesus to be your personal trainer and having one on one time with God will help give you a solid foundation for Multiplication Through Training.
God has called each of us to be a fisher of men. Once we have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are responsible for reaching out to those who are still lost.However, we aren't going to connect people with Christ if our approach is not accurate. Colossians 4:6 says, "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one." Kind words help to foster a connection to Christ. With kind words you begin to build a relationship with people that unlocks a door to a life they didn't know before; a God First life. So we should always consider, before we speak, if we have the "Perfect Seasoning".
The pleasant places in our lives are often the least productive. Being comfortable can lead to complacency and once there we view them as bad situations. What if you had the ability to see through bad situations? What if you were able to turn bad situations into a good report?
We can miss out on so much as we are waiting for everything in our lives to be perfect. When you get the place where you have everything you need, your vision is to small. What if you could come to terms with the fact that you can never be ready for what God has planned for you? What if you were able to realize that trusting God more is not you doing more?
Matthew 5:13 says, "You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt has lost its flavor, with what will it be salted? It is then good for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden under the feet of men." We all have situations in our lives that leave a bad taste in our mouths'. These bad situations may leave us with unwarranted anxiety and worry that keeps us from being and doing what God called us to. But Philippians 4:6, says "In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God." Bring a good taste to your bad situation by bringing it to God and then giving thanks to Him for what He's already done. Then you will know peace that surpasses all understanding. So the question now is, Are You Salty?
There are times in our lives when we all feel like giving up. The burdens seem too heavy or the pain too unbearable in this marathon called life. But Pastor Leonard Henry wants you to know, You Can Still Win. The word of God will be your guide and will sustain you when you feel as if all hope is lost. It connects you to a life giving God who can breathe new life into a dead situation. So in the midst of the storm remember God is able to do all things but fail and if you trust in Him and have faith, He will see you through to the finish line.
The enemy's job is to divert your attention away from Christ so that he can sweep in and destroy you. But just like a plant digs its roots and never again willingly moves from the place it's in, so too should we dig our roots deep in Jesus so that we are not uprooted. Colossians 2:6-7 says, "As therefore you received Christ Jesus, the Lord, walk in him, rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith, even as you were taught, abounding in it in thanksgiving." There will always be trials and tribulations but if we stand firm in our faith and trust in His word, He will provide us with everything we need in the place we are.
Everyone is seeking something but not everyone is seeking the presence of God. Exodus 33:7 says, "And Moses took the tabernacle, and pitched it without the camp, afar off from the camp, and called it the Tabernacle of the congregation. And it came to pass, that every one which sought the LORD went out unto the tabernacle of the congregation, which was without the camp." Sometimes we have to separate ourselves from the crowd so that we can get into His presence. When we enter into the house of the Lord, we should come seeking His presence and to worship Him so that He can pour more of Himself into us. What is your purpose when you enter into the house of God? Are you there to seek His face or to watch others worship?
There was a time in our lives when we all were searching for a way to fix our problems in all the wrong places. We were looking for a temporary solution in the place of eternal absolution. But God wants to change your heart and transform you from the inside out. At this special service we celebrate what God is doing in the life of others as they take their next step in Him through water baptism. When you come to know Christ you must be willing to commit to the change, and while it won't be easy the reward is freedom from bondage and new life anchored in Him. So ask yourself, what's stopping you from being committed to Christ? What's stopping you from being Raised to Life?
John 8:31-32 says, "Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed in Him, 'If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free'." Society today would have you believe that you are free because it "says" it is true. And while we are not under the thumb of a human oppressor, we are all still bound by sin. However, when you enter into a relationship with God, He has the power to set you free. If you abide in His word you will come to "know" the only truth that really matters, His truth. When you spend time in his word you will come to know Him and you will truly be set free from the sins that bind you.
Ephesians 6:12-13 says, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand." The Kingdom of God is not a playground, but it is a battlefield where we are at war with the enemy. The battle began the moment you accepted Christ. Every day we must put on every piece of God's armor and be ready for combat. However, being in a uniform doesn't give you the ability to fight. You must put to practice the gear that you have. You do this every day by exercising your faith, reading the word, and walking out His will for you. The environment you're in right now is preparing you for the fight. God has provided you with everything you need to fight the good fight. He's just waiting for you to Suit Up and get ready.
Joshua 24:15 says, "But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.” The world will tell you greatness is based on what you have and how much you have of it. But true greatness lies in what you possess in your heart, mind, and soul. Once you have changed your mind, you must commit to the choice and be all in. Make up your mind. Where do you stand with God and which path are you on? You can choose to serve the world or you can follow the path less traveled and walk with God. The choice is yours.
Hebrews 12:11 says, "No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way." Every day we awake and make choices in our lives. In our mind lies a continuous battle between right and wrong, and while externally we may present ourselves as holy, internally we may be struggling with issues invisible to others. However, we serve a God who loves us enough to correct us when we've lost our way. And because of this, those internal issues do not have to rule our hearts. With God's help we can make a concrete decision to change our minds and let go of our old ways. And although this disciplinary season will not be pleasurable, remember it is always working for your good.
2 Timothy 1:7 says, "For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind." Every day our minds are exposed to the various aspects of the world. What our eyes see and what our ears hear have a very strong effect on the person we are. However we are all equipped with the spirit of self discipline which aids us against the desires of the world. More importantly we need to have a filter on our minds to block out the many negative distractions. Remaining in His word daily and removing yourself from negativity allows God to transform you into a new person for Him. Then you will learn how to remain Disciplined Through Distractions.
1 Timothy 4:7-8 says, "But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come." In this message Minister Ka'Ron Lewis speaks to you about being 'Fit For The Kingdom'. We must exercise in the word of God and remain in His presence so that we may find ourselves 'Fit For The Kingdom'. Sometimes we find ourselves far from God because we are trying to fit into the world. But we should ask ourselves in whatever we are doing or saying, "Is this pleasing to God?". We should reflect the light and love of God so that those who are lost may come to know Him.
In this message Apostle Simon Chabinga explains the 5 Major Reasons Why Jesus Came. Jesus Christ came so that we may be saved and totally delivered. He answers every need so that we might be free from those chains that bind us. He blesses us with divine healing and prosperity and he keeps us from the hands of the enemy. Once we understand and receive Him as our Lord and Savior we must spread the good news about the word and love of God to those who are lost.
Ephesians 4:11-12 says, “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” God wants to use the position you are in to serve other people. In order to reach the people, however, there should be a desire to change lives. This desire requires us to raise up devoted followers of Christ and to release people to do the work of the ministry. Although there will be opposition and the enemy will try to discourage you from the burden of equipping others, have the Faith to Finish. You cannot do this work alone and you should not try carry the weight alone. Teamwork gives you the support you need and equips you so that you are able to equip others to do the work of the Lord.
It is important for us to understand that the words we speak have power. They have the ability to build us up but also tear us down. Proverbs 18:20-21 says, "A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." Whatever situation you're going through God wants you to know you're going to get through it with the power of proclamation, praise, and prayer. But first ask yourself, What kind of fruit are you eating?
In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel talks to you about the struggles of life. Everyone has struggles that come in many different ways and many different situations. More often than not we're struggling to get ahead instead of waiting for God to move. But this message tells you that "The Struggle Is Real" because it has a purpose. It's meant to stretch you and push you beyond your limits so that you become more than what you were. It will strengthen you and give you a stronger foundation to stand on. And more importantly it is a set up that puts you in a position to minister to those who have come out of a similar struggle. Remember God is with you during your struggle and if you're persistent within your struggle he'll turn it into a masterpiece for Him.
Romans 3:23-24 says, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." In this message Pastor Randy Williams speaks to you about Reconciliation and the message God has for you. No one is perfect and we all will make mistakes, but God saw fit that through His son we would be able to come into right standing with Him. God is in Christ Jesus to reconcile us. Once we receive this message, we must live like it is alive in us. Through the receiving of this message God qualifies you to be an ambassador for His kingdom. Take the message you have received and share it with the world.
The love of God can reach out and find those who are lost no matter what, when, or how you got to where you are. In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel talks about The Good, Good Father and His everlasting love for us. God’s love is relentless. He loves us in our mess and even when we turn our backs to Him. God’s love rescues us. He knows the mess we will make before we even make it, but He’ll always save us from ourselves. And lastly, but certainly not least, God’s love brings restoration. No matter how far you stray, which direction you take, or what problems you make He loves you enough to restore you. When you give your life to Him, where you were once dead in your sins, you are now alive in the Father’s love.
Genesis 2:7 says, “And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul,” In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel speaks to you about learning to love the mud. We are all formed of the dust of the ground and like the ground sometimes our lives can resemble a mess. But God wants to turn your mess into mud. If you allow His life giving water to flow upon your life He will do a work in your mess.He will work a miracle in the middle of your mud. He will use you in a great and mighty way. He will love you through the mud. The only question left is….What are you gonna do with your mud today?
We've got something to work with. Work it, don't let it work you! In this message Pastor Vaughn teaches us how to do more with less through the miracle Jesus performed with 5 loaves and 2 fish. In John 6 a little boy on had a little bit, but Jesus transformed it into more than enough.
In this Q&A service Pastor Russ Emanuel and his wife Chrissy Emanuel answer your questions and explain the many callings of a relationship. In a relationship you are called to a commitment with your spouse. You should pour into each other encouragement and positivity and remain faithful throughout the storms. Contentment is a calling. You should stand firm and remain satisfied in your relationship no matter the season. And in a relationship you are called to a covenant; a binding commitment not only with your spouse but also with God. Every relationship must have a connection, and the most important part of that connection should be God. If you are connected to Him first then your connection with your spouse will be that much stronger.
Have you ever wanted something different, but kept doing the same thing? In this message Dr. Randy Simmons challenges us to "Change the Variables." Changing the Variable transforms our circumstances when we trust in the God-Man "Jesus."
In today's world love has become a word that many people use loosely and without any demonstration. In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel tells you that the actions you put behind the word speaks volumes to those you say it to. However, when our actions are based on good intentions they often lead to unmet expectations. Pastor Russ Emanuel gives you three principles to help you put love into action. If you think something good, SAY IT. When you think something special, DO IT. And if you want something different, BE IT. You can start by simply responding to your spouse with "I love you because..."
In every relationship there will be a time of conflict and misunderstanding. However, the most important thing is how you work through your problems. In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel speaks to you about Reconcilable Differences. Often times the root causes of conflict are unmet expectations and self-centeredness. Unhealthy couples will fight towards victory but healthy couples will work towards resolution. Resolving conflict will require practical promises that should be applied to your relationship. You should commit to following: I will respond and not react, I will focus on the good and not the bad, and I will talk and not walk . Applying these practices will help you to become more Christ like and love each other in a way that makes your relationship stronger.
Living below the standard is not God's plan for our life! In this message Pastor Lynn teaches us to live "Above the Normal" through the miracle Jesus performed at a wedding where he turned water into wine!
In the 3rd installment of the Love Song Series Pastor Russ Emanuel speaks to you about God Honoring Sex. This message covers four qualities about God Honoring Sex within the context of a marriage. It tells us that sex starts before the bedroom with the praising of your spouse and a creation of intimacy. It is passionate and should be approached gently to establish trust in the relationship. Sex should also have parameters set that eliminate the possibility of mismanaged passions and prevents you from settling for just anyone. And lastly God Honoring Sex is pure. It is holy and meant to be shared between two people who have entered into a relationship honored by God. If we allow our passion to burn outside the parameter of marriage it becomes destructive and will burn us up. But when God is at the center of our passion we will burn with a true passion for Him and keep the passion for sex contained within the context it was intended for.
Whether single or married there will always be a time when you are pursuing someone or something special in your life. In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel speaks to you about how to pursue a relationship through different seasons. Your winter season, although it may seem cold and harsh, is meant to get you ready for the weight of a relationship. You may also go through a season of infatuation. This season is not real and should have limits to ensure that you don't cross boundaries before you're ready for them. In all seasons, however, you should pursue intimacy. Intimacy in the sense of honesty, trust, and communication. But no matter the season you should always put God first and honor Him in all you do. This sets the building blocks for a faithful attraction and a strong relationship.
In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel speaks to you about Faithful Attraction and four qualities that will help you find a good mate. Many people will search the world looking for love in many places for many reasons. Whatever the platform or the reason, you should always reflect what and who you are looking for. Four qualities to develop and look for in a mate are Godly Character, Growing Trust, Higher Standards, and Consistent Encouragement. These four qualities will help you build a lasting relationship on a strong foundation.
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Often times when faced with problems in our lives we continue to do the same thing expecting a different outcome each time. In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel encourages you to change the patterns in your life that lead to the same non producing results by remaining in His love, reaching for increase, and realizing the results. Remain in God’s love by staying connected to Him and allowing His strength to be your sustaining source. Reach for greater in God by allowing Him to increase as you decrease. And realize that results come with resolve. Continue to stand on His word even when you can’t see the end product. God is unchanging and never failing and He will always do what He has promised.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 says “And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” In this message Pastor Randy Williams speaks to us about Intentional Giving and how it impacts the lives of those who are closest to us. As Outlasters we have the power to influence those who are connected to us on a daily basis. In your own homes your children will watch the way you act and react to the things in your life. Leaving a legacy requires you to sow into their lives a faith that is on fire and a passion for the Lord and His ways. This begins with a Foundation Worth Having built on Jesus Christ and the word he has given you. With this solid foundation comes a belief in a Future Worth Achieving and the realization that it is obtainable with Jesus Christ. Your belief in this future will create a Faith Worth Reproducing that will be passed on to your children and their children and generations to come even after you are gone. Who will be a product of your Outlasting? Give the gift of a legacy that will stand even after you have fallen.
2 Timothy 1:5-6 says, “I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel speaks about Faith on Fire and how your faith can be passed on from generation to generation. As followers of Christ we are called to unleash Christ-centered, biblically anchored, world changers. To do so we must manage what the children of this generation are exposed to. If you expose them to knowing God personally, to the presence and power of church, and to the thrill of being used by God you will prepare them to glorify God in everything they do. Expose your children to experiences that will allow them to know Christ in a more intimate and deeper way. Is your faith in God making a mark on your children?
Psalm 112:6 says, “For the righteous will never be moved; he will be remembered forever.” In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel speaks to us about Leaving A Legacy and becoming an Outlaster. What will the world say about you when you’re gone? The life that we live should be a display of our walk with Christ. Our values, faith, morals, and integrity should stand for what God wants to do through us. Your generosity, compassion, and righteousness should impact others in a way that carries on long after you are gone. Be a generation that takes risk and is not afraid to live your life for the Lord. Be a model for Christ that leads those who are far from Him to experience a God first life.
On the last Sunday of 2014, Pastor Russ Emanuel takes the time to rewind the year and share what God has done for Olive Grove Church. Sometimes in moments of despair or discouragement we forget what God has already done, but this message encourages you to Wake Up The Wonder by writing down the things that God has done for you and reflecting on those things through praise. Praising God through any situation or trouble awakens the wonder of God that is on the inside of you. Reflecting on what He has done in your life allows you to remember just how good He has been and the greatness that is to come. No matter what the year may bring never forget the good things He has done for you and continue to Wake Up The Wonder with praise.
Olive Grove Church would like to thank you for your continued listening and support every week from where you are. We would love to hear how this ministry has impacted your life and invite you to send us a message about your story. God has done amazing things for this ministry in 2014, but we believe Him for so much greater in 2015. We encourage you to take this journey with us in whatever way God would have you to do so and look forward to helping you and others experience a God First Life. Please tune in next week for Rewind Sunday as we recap the year of 2014 and share what God has done for us. We wish you a very Merry Christmas and thank you once again for listening. God bless you.
Often times we are so preoccupied with everyday life that we neglect to stop and pay attention to what is going on around us. We may miss opportunities to be a blessing to others and opportunities to show the love that God has shown to us. In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel encourages you to unwrap the small faith challenges that God has for you. When we unwrap our faith before others, then we unlock the faith within them. When faith touches faith we grow in our faith and help others to do the same. All we need to do is seize the opportunities presented to us and take a single step.
Life will always be full of surprises. Often times those surprises don’t come packaged the way we expect because God reveals them to us in His own way. In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel expresses the importance of Unwrapping Strange Gifts, even though they don’t look like what we want. God knows what He has for you before you ask Him for it, but you must know that if you ask you will receive. It is important to have faith that He will give you the gifts He has promised, even when the package looks weird.
It’s in our nature as humans to believe that we can do everything on our own. We tend to be uncomfortable and unwilling to relinquish control because we fear not being able to decide the outcome of a situation. In this message Pastor Russ Emanuel encourages you to transfer your trust and put your faith in God. Don’t allow fear to dominate your life and keep you in bondage any longer. Have fearless faith in the Lord and His ability to handle any and all of your situations. He has the power to break every chain.
The Lord never said that following Him would be easy, and often times we find ourselves in a tug of war between doing our own thing and waiting on Him. As humans we become impatient while waiting and we let the flesh lead us astray. In this message Preacher Jon T. Locklear encourages you to stand still and have the faith to let God’s will be done in your life. If you follow and trust in the Lord, He will lead, guide, and direct your path. There may be times when you feel as if you’ll never get to where He’s taking you, but just remember His ending for you is greater than the privilege of saying “I Did It My Way”.
In this message Pastor Mitchell Brewington explains to us The Fringe Benefits that come with being a child of God. Just like on our jobs, being a child of God has a great benefits package that you became qualified for when Christ died for our sins. No one is qualified to get into the Kingdom of God by yourself alone, so by faith we begin our application process. When you put your faith in Him you gain the benefit of being justified. Being justified puts you at peace with God and you gain the benefit of access to His grace. His grace restores and renews you and you gain the benefit of hope to endure all things. But most importantly, when you stand on His word and follow His will you gain the gift of eternal life.
Living a God First Life while you’re on the boat of life means that there will always be storms raging. Some you may see coming a mile away and others may catch you completely off guard. In this message Pastor Randy Williams encourages you to stay on the boat and ride out the storm with Jesus. Luke 8:24 says “And they went and woke him, saying, ‘Master, Master, we are perishing!’ And he awoke and rebuked the wind and the raging waves, and they ceased, and there was a calm.” The disciples knew that they alone could not weather the storm and called on Jesus when they needed help. The same should be so for us in our own boat. Jesus should be the number one passenger and the one we call on when the winds start blowing and waves start crashing. Our deck may fill with water and it may seem as if it’s better to jump ship and try to swim, but no matter how strong the winds or heavy the rain remember everything will be alright if we Ride out The Storm With Jesus.
Matthew 6:24 says "No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money." To some people money is the most important part of their life because it gives them security, freedom, and power. However living a God First Life is all about order and puts God in the front seat and money in the back. In this message Pastor Russ explains to us the importance of tithing and understanding the role of money. Tithing is important because it shows our devotion and worship to God by returning to Him that which He has given us. Biblical tithing is bringing the first ten percent of your income to God through your local church. When we love money more than we love God it shows in our giving and our lives. We feel only the need to give what we think we can spare and forget that it is not ours to give to begin with. We place a false security in its promises and come up empty handed in the end. But God says if you trust in Him and do what you are supposed to do, He will do exactly what He told you He would do. He will provide security, freedom, and power that is always guaranteed.
Luke 11:1 says, "Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples." Prayer is a very fundamental part of living a God First Life. It is an open line of communication between us and God that produces results. In order for prayer to be effective it must be personal, persistent, and specific. In this message Pastor Russ teaches us about effective prayer using a clear example of why and how we pray. Why do we pray? We pray because we have a personal relationship with God and to exercise our spiritual authority that we have in Jesus. How do we pray? Praying may seem hard to do, but you have to start somewhere. Start with praise! God lives in our praises and is glorified when we worship Him.
The most valuable asset in all of humanity is your soul. Living a God first life is all about the preservation of your soul and doing so requires two important components in your life; a relationship and removal. You were created in His image for a RELATIONSHIP that shows your desire to be around Him and your willingness to choose Him above all others. This is achieved through worship. True worship of Him allows you to empty yourself of worldly things so that He may pour more of Himself into you. Mark 8:34 says, "Then, calling the crowd to join his disciples he said, 'If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me.'" Choosing to live a God first life requires leaving behind those things that are not like Him or a REMOVAL of those things that are detrimental to your soul. This choice is yours to make, and although a life of sin "looks" full of promise and reward you must ask yourself one question....is anything worth more than your soul?
Problems will always arise in our lives and there will be many times when we wonder "what do I do?" In this message Pastor Russ tells us how to Turn Your Worry Into Worship. Matthew 6:33 tells us, "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." A God-First Life is about order and making sure we live our life with God in charge and not a "me first" attitude. Worshipping in spite of the circumstances redirects our thoughts to a God-First Life. If we establish an identity through a lifestyle of worship problems will no longer hold the power to enslave us and instead of worrying when things come up we will be able to rejoice in knowing God has already worked it out. When order is restored blessings are released.
Often times we find ourselves in a state of discouragement and uncertainty. Our lives may seem as if what God has spoken will not come to pass. In this message Pastor Vaughn Brown Jr. tells us about 5 things that yield from a perplexing place. At times many seasons may look nothing like what God has promised, but continuation in faith will lead to elevation with God. In your moment of confusion remember God has made you a PROMISE He will fulfill. He has given you a PURPOSE that will manifest itself and during your transition He will provide you with PROTECTION. If you continue to PRAISE Him regardless of your circumstances there will be renewed strength and a PROMOTION. Numbers 23:19 tells us that "God is not a man, that He should lie, or a son of man, that He should change His mind." That means whatever He has promised you will come to pass and unlike the people in your life, His promises will never change.
Invitations often lead to many experiences in our lives that create memories to last a lifetime. However, there can be no experience at all if there is no invitation extended. In this message Pastor Russ talks to us about inviting people to "come and see" a life changing experience in the house of God. Using three of the twelve disciples; Simon, Andrew, and Phillip, Pastor Russ shows us how an invitation from Jesus changed their lives forever. After witnessing for themselves a life change experience through Jesus, they each invited another to "come and see". Are you extending this same invitation to others? When we come into a relationship with Christ, we become responsible for inviting others into His house. Often times we will be rejected, but this should not deter us from continuing to extend such a great invitation. We should continue to create an atmosphere that shows our excitement about living for Christ and seek out those who have yet to experience Him. It's as simple as extending your hand and inviting others to "come and see".
Get ready Get ready Get Ready, are you ready? In this message Pastor Randy Williams teaches us how we can prepare and get ready for God's return. Pastor Randy uses Lot and Noah as an example to show us how God prepared them for what they were about to face.
In a culture where society promotes if you believe it that makes it true. In this message Pastor Russ teaches how truth is based on the essence of who God is When we place our trust in the finished work of Jesus Christ it becomes truth to us. When Peter was in prison awaiting a trial based on his belief the church was praying earnestly for him. God heard there prayer and Peter made a miraculous escape through following the angel of the Lord. Our prayers have power and we should pray with confidence! "It's Really True"
Our lives are under construction and God is the master architect. He breaks us down in order to build us backup, don't give up on the project that God wants to perform. "For he has started a great work in you and he will complete it"
Allowing God to become our navigational system through the paths of life moves our mindset from better to greater. Mindlessly plowing in a field everyday was the job Elisha punched the clock to everyday. Living a routine life can become a place of comfort as we build our security walls around this type of lifestyle. But if we are willing to move beyond our comfort zone stepping into the places of destiny. God uses people who are already doing something. Maybe you are performing a task that seems of less significance? God is conspiring to do something greater in your life!
What’s that one area of your life that you are not willing to release? God I am reaching for greater and I will let everything go “except that!” Pride is an issue that we must resolve if we are going to experience the greater purpose God is conspiring behind the scenes to release in our life. In this message Pastor Russ gives practical teaching on how to build true greatness by subtracting self-reliance so that when the pride is stripped away in our life Christ is revealed in us. We all must be willing to experience “The Dip.”
This message by Pastor Russ encourages us to believe God for greater through the story of Elisha, an Old Testament prophet. Elisha ignites an army to prepare, participate, and position them to believe God for rain by digging ditches. This inspirational message challenges us to believe God for greater when it appears we are in the valley of less. Can you dig it?
Do you have this innate desire that God has greater in store for you? This doesn’t mean you are never content, just that you refuse to settle for complacency. The Jordan River represents a test in the life of Elisha as his teacher is no longer with him. We all face Jordan’s in our life where we stand on the banks of our situation wondering how we will we ever get to the other side of our problem. In this message Pastor Russ talks about how to never give up on God when we believe God for a miracle and there appears to be no change in our circumstance.
We all have areas of our life where we have settled for good enough. Areas where good enough has become acceptable, but god hasn’t called us as believers in Jesus to just enough living. We were not created to just survive the world, plodding along in our day-to-day routine waiting for the day we die. We have a deeper existence than that. In part 1 of this series Pastor Russ talks about the “good enough” mentality suffocates the dreams of a greater purpose and the unconventional methods we must use to reach for greater.
Life is a constant cycle of storms. We all face them from time to time. God uses the storm to build our faith in him as we face our fears head on. Olive Grove Church has faced many storms as a young church plant. In this message Pastor Stevie Jacobs teaches on when Jesus came to his disciples walking on the water. Peter stepped out of the boat only to loose focus. This message inspires us through the history of Olive Grove Church & how God has placed in where we are "neither here nor there."
We all face gaps in our lives. The gap of what we expect is not what we experience. it one thing when we let others down or others let us down, but how do we handle these areas when God is in the middle & he does not come through like we expect? When it seems our prayers are falling on deaf ears. When the God who loves us doesn't show up when we hoped? But God operates by a specific purpose, "his ways are not our ways, nor his thoughts ours." In this message Pastor Russ teaches us through the death of Lazarus that God wants to exceed our expectations!
Life is filled with disappointments through relationships where what expect from others is not what we experience. This gap is where our dreams die & our passion fades leading to frustration, damaged relationships, and discouragement. In this message Pastor Russ uses Paul, Barnabas, & Mark to show us how to overcome the expectation gap when other people don't measure up to what we expect.
When we find ourselves in difficult circumstances, often times the answers we need are obstructed by our situation. In this message Pastor Russ will encourage you to consider the source and work with what you have in the house. When we begin use the tools we are equipped with God will multiply his provision allowing us to achieve what appears to be unattainable. What’s in your house that God can use to bring him glory?
We view our lives through a microscope perspective "close-up." Through this lens often times all we see are the failures & ugly areas of our life. Falling victim to this type of perception distorts our vision of how God sees us. God sees the larger scope of our lives and see us as beautiful. In this message Kim teaches from the valley of dry bones with Ezekiel, that even in the dead areas of our life God has the power to make them come to life.
What happens after Easter Sunday. We come to church and celebrate resurrection Sunday, but what happens next? In this message Rev. Julius Simmons teaches us how to move past the resurrection into what God wants to do through our lives. Jesus did not stop after the resurrection he continued to fulfill Gods plan to impact the lives of others through salvation.
The second part of this series was an exciting time in the life of Olive Grove Church as we held our first baptism on the grounds of our current location. Easter weekend is an amazing experience as we celebrate the Jesus being Raised to Life. Olive Grove Church was honored to have seven people take their next steps toward & with Christ through water baptism on this special weekend. We exist to reach people far from God and lead them to experience a God First Life. In this message Pastor Russ teaches on how we might know Christ through three relevant methods "proclamation, examination, and transformation. Do You Know Him?
Olive Grove Church exists to reach people far from God and lead them to experience a God first life. This missional message is accomplished by making sure how we function as the local church ties into the message that Jesus came for "to seek & too save that which was lost." In this two part series entitled Raised to Life Pastor Russ teaches on how the local church helps people to take there next steps toward Christ & with Christ. These steps involve coming to God, Confess to God, & committing to God. The doorway to this life changing experience is through Jesus Christ and then allowing the Holy Spirit to do a work in & through us. Once we allow Jesus to become CEO of our lives we become "Miracles in the Making."
Worship plays a vital role in the life of a christian. God created humanity, his divine masterpiece, created in his own image with a desire for a relationship. Worship is an expression of that intimate relationship that God desires from all of us. In this message Pastor Roy explores the heart of God through worship, while challenging us to engage in the worship experience. "We were created for Worship."
Being "All IN" will challenge us to move from our comfort zones. Change brings resistance, but overcoming the resistance spurs on growth. In this message Pastor Randy teaches from the old testament passage through Ezekiel's vision of crossing a river. There are different levels of the river in this text representing us moving in our lives to moving to being "All IN."
We all have barriers in our lives that restrict us from reaching our full God potential, being "ALL IN." We understand what God promises, but have a difficult time living out those promises due to the barriers we face. "God often places a problem between us and the promise" why? Total dependency on God is the reason, "All IN." In this message Pastor Russ teaches how to break through the barriers that hinder us from becoming "All IN" for God's purpose for our lives through the life of Joshua, the successor to Moses in the Old Testament. We cannot work our plan through God's purpose & expect successful results. It's God's promises, God's plan, and God's purpose are the formula for breaking down barriers in our lives!
Having a place where we can connect with God is vital in building our relationship with him. Our passion for commitment fuels this connection where we are challenged to make a decision whether we are "All IN." Christianity is not a rule based religion, Christianity is about a relationship with Jesus Christ. The worlds view is look at what I have to give up, but on the flip side of that coin look at all you have to gain. In this Message Pastor Russ teaches through the life of the Old Testament Patriarch Jacob about what its like to faced with the challenge to be "All IN." Finding that sweet spot "The Honey Hole" is a place where we are encouraged, empowered, and equipped to be "All IN" for God. Don't ever dig up what you were delivered from!
Choosing not to let go in the midst of adverse situations proves our commitment. The local church is a place where we build our commitment to God & with people. In this message Pastor Russ teaches the significance of having a place where you can meet God. The patriarch Jacob is used to better illustrate the significance of "the place & the person" as we hang on when everything around us is screaming to let go. DON'T LET GO!
In a culture where walking away & starting over becomes the easy way out. We see it in relationships, work place, and in the church. God has a specific plan and a purpose for your life and he is calling you to be "All IN." The life of Jesus is our example as he laid everything on the line for us, that's what it means to be "All IN", fully committed. In this message Pastor Russ challenges us to take a stand for our faith in Christ. Using a passage from the Old Testament through the life of Shammah, an Israelite soldier who resisted the enemy by defending a parcel of land we understand the significance that some things are worth fighting for. Fighting the good fight of faith is about resolve, reasoning, and reward. Are you willing to fight for your pea patch?
Identity crisis is common in an evolving culture where we are consistently changing. Trying to fit in and prove our worth whether in our families, with our friends, at work, or as a student, we all have a sense of belonging. In this message Reverend Eartle teaches on knowing who we are in Christ. Our true identity lyes in knowing who we are through God's lens. "Do You Know Who You Are?
In the game of life there are eternal implications at stake. Christ issued a clarion call for us to get into the game in Matthew Chapter 28 called the great commission. In this message Pastor Russ is teaching on how to get off the bench and into the game. This message is centered around what we call at Olive Grove Church "Super Sunday." Super Bowl weekend is a national pastime in the sports realm, but life is real with eternal destinies at stake. Choosing to roll with team Jesus allows us play on the winning team. This message inspires us to understand we need a game plan, game face, and we are called to become game changers. In sports there are certain plays that change the whole outcome of the game. Its no different in life the decisions we make can change our lives forever. It's "Game Time"
Fellowship is designed by God for us to spend time with him & with others. This fellowship hinges upon the relationship we have with God's son Jesus Christ. In this message Pastor Randy reveals to us the significance of the relationship. Olive Grove Church believes fellowship is a pillar in the Christian faith as we "Love God and Love People." Come join us as we do Life together!
We are all significant in the eyes of God! Every detail of our life matters as we were created to fulfill his specific purpose for our life. in this message Pastor Russ deals with controversial topic of when bad things happen God is working them out for our good. This teaching is centered around the life of Joseph in the Old Testament who faced adversity, yet focused on his purpose. "To live a life of purpose is to live life on purpose." After all EVERY DETAIL MATTERS!
There is a cultural cliche' in our society that says the devil is in the details. In this message Pastor Russ teaches that God is a God of detail. When we overlook small things they become large problems. Every detail of our lives matter and were created in the image of God, because "Every Detail Matters." Praise proclaims the value of God's worth. Every detail of our praise matters and sometimes we just have to break out into "Crazy Praise" that exalts God over our situation. Do you fit the the profile of praise?
Details matter, in a culture where the cliché is often use "the devil is in the details." In this message series Pastor Russ combats this method of thinking by proving that God is in the details. We are significant in the eyes of God & according to his specific purpose. This message helps us to understand the importance of following the blueprint God has for our lives through the life of the Old Testament prophet Moses. God gave Moses specific instructions on how to build the tabernacle in Exodus Chapter 40. This is where we derive the term ED:40 "Every Detail Matters."
In todays culture Image is everything. People shape their value by their appearance and how we are viewed by others. in this message Pastor Russ teaches on the importance in the weighty responsibility of bearing the image of God! This doesn't mean we live a life of perfection, but a life of being committed to the process of consistent transformation through the power of the Holy Spirit. in order for us to remember the reflection a personal and intimate relationship with Jesus is vital.
Love Is the essence of who God is and the bedrock of the Christian faith. God displayed his love towards us through the person of his Son Jesus Christ. In a culture where the word love at times can be used in a hollow context. In this message Pastor Russ teaches from one of the most popular scriptures in the bible John 3:16. God revealed his plan to redeem us from our sins through the person of Jesus Christ as he sent him on "Mission of Love." God is Love!
In life there will always be times when we have to fight, but the most important fight of all is the fight of faith. In this message Pastor Russ speaks about becoming a faith fighter. In order to become a faith fighter you must first determine what faith is and how much you have. Faith is believing what you cannot see and complete confidence that we rely on God and depend on His reliability when we don't know the outcome of our circumstances. It is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. Faith requires the will to endure, work or practice, and a walk or continued belief at all times through any storm. You must also understand who and what you're fighting. The devil will come in all types of disguises ready and willing to take you out. However, if you have practiced your faith, endured until the end, and walked into the storm unknowing of the outcome but sure of your triumph, you will be ready for the test. Matthew 17:20 says 'He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.” We must believe that God is who He says He is and that through Him all things are possible. So if you endure through the storm and believe that your finish will be strong then you will have a strong finish, fight the good fight of faith.
Facing the tension of holding on to things that are not good for us can become a challenge. Whether that thing is a friend, a job, our finances, bitterness, our inability to release forgiveness, or just simply our own selfish motives. In this message Pastor Russ will issue a challenge to release the things in our life that are unhealthy for us. it's impossible to live the right life with the wrong friends, after all "show us your friends and we will show you your future."
Building friendships requires us to move outside of our comfort zone and become involved in the lives of others. Many of us are just one friend away from changing the course of our destiny. In this message Pastor Russ uses the life of Paul, the great writer of over half of the New Testament to demonstrate the significance of being one friend away. Proverbs 13:20 teaches "Walk with the wise and become wise, associate with fools and get in trouble."
In a culture where social media is a valuable tool it has also redefined how people view their friendships. There is a difference between a friend on face-book & someone you spend time with through face to face interaction. In this message Pastor Russ will lay a foundation through a simple proverb "Show me your friends & I will show you your future." Friendships are vital as God created us to be relational beings. It is very easy for us to isolate ourselves and our friendships through social media, but this message challenges us to be people who are "Present" meaning we show up in the context of relationships. We must also be willing to be transparent meaning "We impress people through our strengths, but we connect with people through our weaknesses."
We all have one common problem in our life. Though small in language the word "sin" has major implications on our lives. Sin leaves us feeling dirty, hollow, and empty in our lives. Jesus came to fill that void and remove the sin from our life as a willing laid his life down on an altar called Calvary and cleansed us from the stain of sin. In this message Rev. Eartle uncovers the abundant supply of God's love toward us in the form of grace. Grace is God's unmerited favor on our lives that places us in a right-standing relationship with him through Jesus. Grace defeated sin in an epic showdown that freed us from the sin debt we could not pay...Grace > Sin!
Christ has commissioned us with a responsibility to communicate God's vision for salvation. In this message Pastor Russ challenges us to walk out this vision of salvation through our lives. Matthew 6:33 is the central theme of this message and basis upon why Olive Grove Church exists. To reach people far from God leading them to experience a God First Life! For the local church to be successful we must communicate this vision plan for salvation with clarity. After all seeing is believing!
In the family the table represents a place where relationships are built as we share meals together. In this message Pastor Russ teaches on how Jesus built relationships with others around a table. The table is a place of significance as being the place where vision is cast in the context of relationships. The responsibility of the local church is to build believers and serve seekers. Olive Grove Church exists to reach people far from God leading them to experience a God First Life!
If we are going to carry the vision that God has for us, this vision must also be real in our lives as well. In this message Pastor Randy teaches how we should live in the reality of the vision God has for us. We are responsible for keeping this vision real and for maintaining a clear perspective through a living relationship with Christ. Let's Keep It Real...
Having a clear perspective of where we are going can only be accomplished through vision. Vision plays a vital role in how the Church can reach others for Christ. In this message Pastor Russ teaches the value of vision in regards to the Old Testament proverb "write the vision and make it plain." Olive Grove Church exists to reach people far from God leading them to experience a God First Life! Catching this vision and running with a sense of purpose to tell others requires 20/20 vision.
Before you were ever formed in your mother’s womb God knew who you were. He spoke a word into your life and predestined you to be great. In this message Minister Gail Parker comes to tell you that there is a word out on you. God has set you apart from others and assigned you to a higher calling. The word of the Lord says that His word shall not return empty, which means that whatever He speaks in your life will come to pass. However, when there is a word out on you the devil will try any means necessary to stop that word. He will use your friends and even your family to make you loose focus of who you are. As a child of God you must remember that the devil cannot stop what God has anointed. The enemy is in the business of stealing, killing, and destroying what God has created and you cannot be what everybody else wants you to be or do what everybody else does. When God releases a word into your life there is a purpose. Do you know God’s purpose in your life? What is God saying about you?
Sometimes in life we find ourselves in places we didn’t think we’d be. The decisions we’ve made and the sins of our past have led us to a place away from God. This message encourages us knowing that although it may seem like your world is crumbling around you, KEEP PRESSING. In the book of Judges, Gideon finds himself in an impoverished situation trying to make ends meet in an unconventional manner. In life we all find ourselves there at times asking the question, “God, if you are with me then why….” Why am I without a job, why am I struggling to buy food, why am I not healthy? You must believe that in any situation God still lives. God is our hope in what appears to be hopeless situations. The situation you’re in right now cannot hold you because you serve a God who is bigger and greater than your problems and He’s getting ready to release you. When God crushes our situation often times we find ourselves at our lowest state. This allows us to grow stronger in Him. Picture yourself lying on the bench press of life with the weight of the world pressing you down. Judges 6:12 says “The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, ‘The Lord is with you, you mighty warrior’.” You must know that the Lord is standing over you ready to help you with your load and He will send His Holy Spirit to be your spotter; to encourage you when you need help and give you a push through the rough spots. In the midst of it all he wants you to keep praying, keep believing, keep reading, keep trusting, KEEP PRESSING. He has a future for you that is beyond any you could see for yourself and through The Power of the Press you will come out as you already are, a mighty warrior.
In our Christian walk with God there will constantly be a tug of war between the Spirit and the flesh. The flesh desires to please the world while the Spirit desires to please God. In this message Pastor Russ explains the importance of setting boundaries for our lives. Often times if we're not careful we find ourselves like Lot in the book of Genesis, setting our sights on sin and away from God. However, because He first loved us, God sent his son Jesus to reconcile our sins. He recognized that Satan would try to destroy us using every possible distraction of the world. Pastor Russ shares with us that the word of God should be a boundary for our life, helping us establish a limit and define parameters we aren't willing to cross. Establishing these boundaries keeps us from falling victim to the schemes of Satan and keeps us within the realm of the God zone. Within this zone we find peace, love, joy, and a protection against a culture that lives by the motto "anything goes".
In life you will always find yourself in the beginning, middle, or end of a storm. Just like Peter and the other disciples you are on a proverbial boat with winds raging around you and you may feel as if you are alone and Jesus has left you. However we must trust that in this storm, whether its financial, emotional, physical, or spiritual, He has not left us to drown. Just like Peter you must listen for His voice and when He calls you be ready to step out on love. In this message Pastor Russ tells us to "step out of the boat". Let your love for the Lord guide you and enable you to step out onto the problem leading you to great things for God. He will take you through the storm and use it as a way to reveal himself to you in a deeper facet. The question is.....Will you stay on the boat or walk on the water?
Often times when people think of a dangerous church they think of tongue talkers and pew walkers. Here at Olive Grove Church a dangerous church is considered to be a local group of believers impacting lives that impact the world. In this message Pastor Russ tells us that becoming a dangerous church requires believers to be on the same page, meeting in the same place with the same purpose. A dangerous church must be able to communicate a clear vision to people who are passionate about the promises of God. Along with this vision believers must have a meeting place that allows relationships to be built that are forged with a singleness of heart. In this place we fulfill the purpose, which is to fill the house of God and receive His promise. When we come into His house with this mindset and a passion to encounter, experience, and explore the weight of the Spirit of God we become a dangerous church.