Life Around "The Fire": Recent Episodes
David
This podcast is dedicated to those wanting to experience an alive, real relationship with God and one another as well as some true spiritual growth along The Way. This is for you!
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We compare the months of planning behind King Charles III’s 2026 Washington, DC visit with the far deeper preparation we believe is underway for Jesus Christ’s return. We talk about Holy Spirit refinement, covenant relationship, and what it means to live as a people marked by the Kingdom of God.
• King Charles’ visit as a picture of honor and preparation
• Jesus’ literal return, future rule and reign, and the hope of a restored earth
• evil being exposed as part of clearing the way
• personal refinement, changing desires, and a new appetite for God
• perfect unity and shared life within the body of Christ
• blood covenant through Jesus as relationship rather than religion
• the narrow way that leads to a broad life
if you have any thoughts, questions, concerns, please feel free to drop us a line at lifearoundthefire at gmail.com or type in life around the fire and look us up on the web.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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The world feels louder than it used to, and not in a good way. When you’re surrounded by pressure, cruelty, and nonstop noise, it’s easy to get numb, cynical, or simply tired. We start there, naming the reality of spiritual darkness while also holding onto a bigger claim: God’s Spirit is moving like a rising wave, and we’re meant to meet this moment equipped, not overwhelmed.
From that foundation, we get practical about spiritual warfare and the tools God gives believers. The focus is one weapon that’s often misunderstood or treated like a checkbox: praying in tongues, also called praying in the Spirit. We break down the difference between glossolalia (a devotional prayer language) and xenoglossia (speaking a real language you never learned), then ask the question people rarely say out loud: what does God get out of it? We talk about Spirit-to-Spirit intimacy, “perfect intercession” shaped by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:26-27), and the beauty of surrender when you yield your voice to God in focused worship.
We also lay out the real-life effects many believers experience when they practice extended prayer in tongues: spiritual edification (1 Corinthians 14:4), sharper sensitivity to God’s leading, stronger resistance against discouragement, and a deep sense of peace and rest. If you’ve been craving mental clarity, emotional release, or a way to carry shalom into your home and relationships, this conversation offers a clear path and a bold challenge: one hour a day for 30 days, with your attention fixed on Jesus.
If this helps you, subscribe, share it with a friend who feels worn down, and leave a review so more people can find it. What would you want to change most through a deeper prayer life?
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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Worry can feel like responsibility, but it slowly turns into a vise that squeezes the life out of you. We slow down and listen closely to Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:25–34, where he doesn’t offer a vague pep talk. He gives a direct command, “Do not worry,” and then points to the birds of the air and the lilies of the field as a picture of a Father who sees, knows, and provides. If you’ve been living with anxiety about money, security, or the basics of life, this conversation is meant to reset your inner compass toward trust and peace.
We focus on the line that grips us most: “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” For many of us raised in the United States, “kingdom” can sound distant because we’re trained to think in elections, control, and constant self-management. A kingdom works differently because it has a king. We talk through what it means to seek the King, not just benefits, and how that shift changes your decisions about time, relationships, and what you chase all day.
Then we get practical with three clear steps for Christian living: let go of anxious worry, obey God’s voice, and make God your foundation rather than an afterthought. We also share how you can recognize when you’ve truly found the kingdom of God: there’s a new master, unshakable peace even under pressure, and a changed heart that wants to love and give like Jesus. If you’re ready for a calmer, steadier life rooted in faith, listen now, subscribe, share with a friend who needs peace, and leave a review. And if you want to talk with us, drop us a line at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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Your problem might not be as big as it feels, it might just be too close. We talk about a spiritual perspective shift that took us from staring up at pressure to standing above it, and how that change reshapes what we see, what we say, and what we expect from God when life feels tight.
We share a real moment where financial need looked like it would push everything into the negative, then walk through what happened when we stopped leading from feelings and started leading from dependence. That includes a practical framework for declaring provision and speaking with intention not from random optimism, but from what we believe God is putting on our hearts. If you’ve ever felt boxed in by circumstances, this conversation is built to help you breathe again and regain spiritual clarity.
From there we go deep on praying in tongues as a Spirit-filled practice for everyday Christians and leaders, including glossolalia and xenolalia, and why extended prayer can bring self-edification, intimacy with God, increased spiritual sensitivity, and strength in spiritual warfare. We also explore reported outcomes like peace, stress reduction, emotional release, renewed thinking, and deep rest, while naming the tension many feel in a Western Christianity shaped by what can be measured.
Subscribe for more practical faith you can apply, share this with a friend who feels overwhelmed, and leave a review so more people can find the show. What would change if you prayed from a higher place this week?
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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Unity can sound abstract until you see what it does under pressure. We dig into why Spirit-led unity is one of the most countercultural signs of real Christianity and how it can literally change the atmosphere around us. When God’s internal strength meets the world’s external pressure, something shifts: peace rises, joy steadies, and people can finally see what life with Jesus looks like in the flesh and blood of everyday relationships.
We walk through Paul’s closing words in Philippians 4, where he calls two women in conflict to live in harmony. That moment opens a bigger conversation about how small relational fractures can spread if we ignore them. We connect it to the “little foxes that spoil the vine” and a vivid microchip lab illustration: one tiny contaminant can ruin an entire batch. In community, small offenses, quiet bitterness, or casual criticism can work the same way unless we address the roots early and let God’s presence cleanse what doesn’t belong.
Then we bring it home to the inner life. We talk about forbearance, learning to think kindly about others and ourselves, and why negative self-talk is not harmless. We end with a practical path from anxiety to prayer, thanksgiving, and the peace of God that guards our hearts and minds, helping us fix our eyes on Jesus and stay focused. If this encouraged you, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review, then reply with the “little fox” you’re ready to deal with this week.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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A lot of people don’t walk away from God because they stop believing He exists. They walk away because they believe He’s angry, impossible to please, and ready to punish the moment they mess up. We start with a short story that exposes how easily we misread love as control and protection as deprivation.
We share the moment that grabbed us: three kids sneak into the woods after years of hearing “don’t go without me.” At first it feels like freedom, like their dad has been holding out on them. Then darkness hits, fear spirals, and shame convinces them they should run away rather than go home. On the way back, they see their father holding something that looks like a whip and the dread spikes, until they realize it’s a towel and a washcloth. He isn’t coming to beat them. He’s coming to clean them up.
That’s the spiritual gut-punch. Many of us carry a distorted image of God the Father, assuming He’s always upset, always disappointed, and always keeping score. We challenge that lie with the gospel: God is more loving and wiser than we give Him credit for, and He moves toward us with mercy, cleansing, and freedom through Jesus Christ. We close with a prayer asking God to set the record straight and transform our imagination so we can relate to Him with trust instead of fear.
If this brought something up for you, listen through to the end, then subscribe, share the episode with a friend who needs hope, and leave a review so more people can find it.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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Peace gets talked about like it is a vibe or a temporary break from conflict. We go somewhere deeper. Rabbi Ed Bez joins us to unpack the biblical idea of covenant through the Hebrew word breet, then lands on Ezekiel’s stunning promise: God will cut a covenant of shalom, an everlasting covenant. Shalom is not a greeting and it is not simply “no fighting.” We talk about shalom as wholeness, completeness, and God’s work of putting a scattered life back together.
We also trace how the prophets (Jeremiah 31, Ezekiel 36 and 37, Isaiah 55) point toward the new covenant fulfilled in Jesus Christ. One of the most helpful frameworks Rabbi Bez brings is the legal concept of a codicil: an amendment that supplements and explains an existing will. That lens shifts how we read “law and grace,” because Jesus does not trash God’s earlier covenant promises. He fulfills them by clarifying God’s intent, like when he deepens the commands about murder and adultery to include what happens in the heart and in our words.
From Noah’s rainbow reset to Abraham’s inheritance and legacy to Moses’ call to live clean, we connect biblical covenants to spiritual growth that is practical and personal. If you have been craving a faith that heals instead of fragments, this conversation will give you language, Scripture, and next steps. Subscribe, share this with a friend who loves Bible study, and leave a review so more people can find Life Around The Fire.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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“Law” is one of those words that can instantly shut people down, but what if we’ve been aiming at the wrong target? We sit with Rabbi Ed Bez and open up a covenant-focused way of reading the Bible that refuses the easy split between Old Testament and New Testament. For us, this is about spiritual growth that actually changes relationships, first with God, then with each other, and covenant becomes the thread that ties it all together.
Rabbi Ed shares why the Scriptures are a single, organic unity from Genesis to Revelation, then walks us through the covenant storyline that shapes the entire biblical narrative. We talk about why “testament” can miss the point, why “new covenant” is often better understood as a renewed covenant, and how the covenants God makes across history build a framework for reading the Torah, the Prophets, and the Gospels with clarity instead of confusion.
The heart of the conversation is Matthew 5:17, where Jesus says he does not abolish the Torah and the Prophets but fulfills them. We explore what “fulfill” means in real terms, including Jesus’ perfect obedience and his final sacrifice, and we challenge the common habit of equating law with legalism. Then we land in Jeremiah 31 and Ezekiel 36, where the promise gets intensely practical: God writes his Torah within us, gives a new heart, and empowers obedience through the Holy Spirit, not through flesh-driven striving.
If this stirred questions or brought conviction, we’d love to hear from you. Subscribe for part two, share this with a friend who wrestles with grace and obedience, and leave a review so more people can find the show.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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If you’ve ever longed for the glory of God but quietly wondered what it would demand of you, this conversation goes straight to the heart of it. We sit down with Lonnie Lane for an honest, wide ranging talk about hosting and stewarding the glory of the Lord, and why God’s presence is never meant to be a private experience we protect from the world.
We unpack what it looks like for the Church to move through a transitional season with unity in the body of Christ and the beauty of holiness, while still facing real pressure from darkness. Lonnie shares a personal story from a powerful move of God in Philadelphia where the glory was tangible for months, and how a simple warning exposed a deeper issue: when we keep revival inside the room and forget the lost, we risk losing what we’re celebrating. That story reshapes how we think about Christian revival, responsibility, and the purpose behind God’s presence.
From worship culture to church leadership, we get practical. We talk about worship that points to Him instead of us, why the one man show model limits the body, and how spiritual gifts include more than platform ministry. We also touch Israel and the Church, Jewish believers, and why Scripture should shape our posture without turning it into a war of words. We close with hopeful, grounded stories of Spirit led evangelism in everyday places, because God loves to meet people in normal moments.
Subscribe for more, share this with a friend who’s hungry for God’s presence, and leave a review so more people can find Life Around the Fire. What part of this conversation challenged you most?
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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AI can hand you an answer in seconds, but it cannot teach you how to discern what is holy, what is true, and what is actually from God. We sit down with Lonnie Lane for a prayerful, open-mic conversation that starts with the reality we are all feeling: the nations are shifting, the noise is louder, and believers need a deeper kind of steadiness than information can provide. We also take time to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and reaffirm our support for Israel, asking God to make His faithfulness visible.
From there, the conversation turns personal and practical. We talk about why testimony matters, how “the word of our testimony” strengthens other people, and why peace is often a byproduct of alignment with God’s timing. Lonnie raises a sharp question about discernment in the age of AI, and we unpack what has guided us: learning to talk with God, listening for His voice, and staying rooted in the written Word because God does not contradict Scripture. If you have been searching for Christian discernment, spiritual maturity, and a clear way to test what you hear, this will meet you right where you are.
We also connect ancient Scripture to modern life through Abraham’s call to leave the familiar and follow God into a land he did not know. That leads into what we see changing in the church right now: a growing hunger for John 17 unity, healthier expressions of leadership beyond a one-man model, and a renewed view of holiness as something beautiful instead of legalistic. Part two is coming, and we cannot wait to keep going.
Subscribe so you do not miss what is next, share this with a friend who is asking hard questions, and leave a review to help more people find Life Around the Fire.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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Your faith can feel strong right up until the moment real life demands proof. We start with a clear declaration we’re willing to stand on: God is faithful, and His love never fails. Then we get honest about the place many of us live in, the gap between believing God’s promises and feeling unsure when a new challenge shows up. If you’ve ever thought, “He’s been faithful before, but what about this time,” you’ll feel seen.
We talk about “daily bread” and why trusting God often looks less like a one-time breakthrough and more like choosing dependence day after day. We also draw a bright line around roles: God is God and we’re not. That simple clarity changes how we handle anxiety, prayer, and responsibility, especially when money is tight and the future feels uncertain. We want trust to be practical, not vague, and we name how stretching seasons can surface unbelief so God can refine it.
Then we share a true story of financial provision: a scam drains a shared bank account, the balance drops negative, and a mortgage payment is due with no backup. What happens next is a reminder that God can provide through unexpected relationships in ordinary neighborhoods, right on time. We read Isaiah 60 out loud, leaning into its vision of light in darkness and God’s ability to bring resources in ways that honor Him, and we pray for provision, wisdom, and stewardship without telling God how He must do it.
If you’re searching for Christian encouragement, biblical teaching on financial provision, and a faith lift rooted in Scripture, press play. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs hope, and leave a review, then tell us: where do you need God to come through right now?
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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If you’ve ever wondered whether your faith is strong or just loud, this conversation lands like a mirror. We start by reading all of 1 Corinthians 13 and letting it set the standard: without the love of God, even the most impressive spiritual gifts, sacrifice, and knowledge turn into noise. We slow down on the words we think we already know, patience, kindness, truth, endurance, and ask what agape love looks like when it has to survive real pressure.
From there, we get practical about spiritual maturity through the lens of “putting away childish things.” We draw a sharp line between childish and childlike: childish is petty and reactive, childlike is sincere, curious, and open. We also talk about imagination as an image center God can use, and why a pure, childlike inner life makes room for peace, clarity, and love that doesn’t keep score. Kindness isn’t weakness here; we describe it as strength with authority that can outlast unkindness.
We also zoom out to the world stage, including Israel, rising hostility, and the call for believers to live as one new man in Christ rather than getting swept into hate and division. We close with prayer for transformation, provision, and the ability to steward God’s glory through hard transitions. If you’re hungry for a Christian podcast episode about agape love, spiritual growth, and staying steady in uncertain times, hit play, then subscribe, share, and leave a review, what challenged you most?
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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We talk about why Kingdom leadership flips the usual top-down model and calls us to serve from underneath as we lift people up. We also get practical about spiritual rhythm, showing how rest and play protect leaders from burnout and bring our relationship with God back to life.
• servant leadership as the culture of the Kingdom of God
• a balanced rhythm of work rest worship and play
• how “the shoulds” turn worship into a checklist
• Sabbath as a gift and rest as worship based on Mark 2:27
• learning to rest with God in a replenishing relationship
• why staying guarded in relationships drains us over time
• trusting God as our shield instead of self-defense
• play as a way to release creativity and renew imagination
• balancing privilege with responsibility to avoid entitlement or harshness
• integrity through obedience in small things and keeping our word
If you have any thoughts, questions, concerns, please feel free to drop us a line at life around the fire at gmail.com, or you can type in Life Around the Fire and look us up on the web. We'd love to hear from you.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Send us Fan Mail
Two words can quietly shrink your life: always and never. When we say “it’s always going to be like this” or “I’ll never change,” we turn a passing struggle into a permanent sentence. We pull those words apart and put them where they belong, not on our temporary feelings, but on God’s unchanging character: He is always God, always good, and never anything less than who He is.
From there, we get practical and personal about spiritual growth and surrender. We talk about the moments when God asks us to set aside something familiar so we can receive something better, even when it feels like loss. Think of the simple picture: if you want a dog to drop the hot dog, you offer a steak. That’s often what change feels like in real life, letting go of what’s immediate so we can embrace what’s greater.
We also open Scripture to Numbers 11 and the Israelites’ craving for Egypt’s food while God provides manna. It’s an honest look at cravings, nostalgia, and how easy it is to romanticize an old life while forgetting the bondage that came with it. Along the way, we reflect on addiction recovery, why our bodies make great servants but terrible masters, and how the Holy Spirit empowers us to lead our desires instead of being led by them.
If you’re in a hard season, feeling stuck, or tempted to compromise, let this be a reminder: it’s temporary, and God can use it to bring you into something better. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs hope, and leave a review so more people can find the show.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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God doesn’t need better rumors about Him, He reveals Himself. We lean hard into that conviction as we talk about why Scripture is the bedrock for Life Around The Fire and why the written Word of God still carries power for real life today. We’re not chasing religious noise or nostalgia for another era. We’re watching God move now, and we want our faith to stay anchored, honest, and alive.
We unpack what we mean by awakening, reformation, revival, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, using Ezekiel’s river as a vivid picture of depth that keeps increasing until it overwhelms everything. We also get blunt about the difference between healthy spiritual disciplines and dead religion. The goal isn’t a scripted performance or a checklist. The goal is relationship, intimacy, and a life that makes God recognizable to the people closest to you.
One of the most personal moments is a testimony from our own home: how our daughters once associated Jesus with lifeless church, but over time encountered real faith through consistent witness and the Holy Spirit’s work. We remind you that salvation is the crowning jewel, then we encourage you to stop fearing opinions, yield your gifts, and trust the strength of God within you when pressure hits. We close by praying for courage, power, love, and a sound mind. If this encouraged you, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find the podcast.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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Leadership is under strain, and a lot of what passes for “strong leadership” is really just status, volume, or branding. We go a different direction and talk about Kingdom of God leadership: the kind that carries values, practices, and priorities aligned with Jesus, and that leads people into deeper relationship with the Lord and radical obedience that goes all the way to the root.
One of the most challenging ideas we share is simple and costly: if we want to advance in God’s way, we have to become willing to become “a nobody” again. That means loosening our grip on recognition, privileges, and being seen as the person with the track record, so we can come underneath emerging leaders and lift them higher. We unpack why this is not a demotion but a Kingdom promotion, where servant leadership, humility, and surrender create the space for the next generation to begin where we left off and go further.
We also name some less obvious pitfalls that pull Christian discipleship off course: the “isms and itties.” When liberalism, conservatism, legalism, or other ideological extremes become identity markers, they can quietly replace allegiance to the Kingdom. From there we dig into a sharp distinction between cultural Christianity and true new birth. Jesus did not come to create a watered-down religious label. He announced the Kingdom of God, opened the way to the Father, and invites us into real kingdom citizenship now, marked by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
If you’re hungry for clearer spiritual leadership, deeper transformation, and faith that is more than a label, listen through to the closing prayer. Subscribe, share this with a leader you trust, and leave a review so more people can find the conversation.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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Leadership has a way of bruising you in places no one can see. After nearly five years of podcasting, we slow down to thank everyone who’s been listening around the world and especially those who have been praying, because that support keeps ministry from turning into sheer self-effort. Then we get honest about what many pastors, church leaders, and spiritual leaders learn the hard way: the longer you lead, the more you’ll face moments that sting.
We talk about “sheep bite” the painful reality that hurt can come from the very people you serve. The early honeymoon of leadership can make you feel unstoppable, until criticism, offense, and misunderstanding show up and you realize you were never trained for every relational hit. We share practical leadership advice for handling praise and critique, why you should believe about half of both, and how to stop chasing affirmation from people who can’t reliably carry that weight.
We also dig into emotional health for leaders: why stuffing frustration can turn into depression, how “information creates emotion,” and why venting to the wrong person can feed gossip and chaos. A childhood story about a made-up rumor drives home how fast words can move and how deeply they can affect others. Finally, we look to Jesus under false accusation and what real authority looks like when you refuse to retaliate and choose to endure for the long haul.
If you lead in ministry, serve on a team, or carry responsibility for others, listen and take notes, then subscribe, share this with a leader who needs it, and leave a review that helps more people find the show.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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That jolt of insecurity can land in the middle of an ordinary day and suddenly you feel small, exposed, and “less than.” We’ve both seen how fast that inner voice can drag you back into old measurements and old shame, even after years of growth. So we slow down and name what’s really happening when inferiority and insecurity resurface, especially when life expands and the stakes feel higher.
We define what we mean by a spiritual stronghold or mental stronghold: a deeply ingrained pattern of thinking or behavior rooted in a lie, built over time through wounds, repetition, and emotion until it starts to act like a fortress. We talk through the most common forms, including addictions and coping habits, negative thought loops like anxiety and rejection, relational barriers like bitterness and trust issues, and “natural reasoning” that sounds smart but quietly says, “I will never change.” If you’ve ever wanted freedom but felt stuck in the same mental grooves, you’ll recognize yourself here.
Then we get practical about breaking strongholds and renewing your mind, not as a formula but as a set of principles you can actually use: identify the thought, ask what lie you’re believing, test it against Scripture, reject and evict it, and replace it with truth because your mind won’t stay empty. We also share a personal story of going from drug burnout and a fried brain to real mental clarity through daily Scripture meditation and participation with God’s Word and Spirit. If you feel like you’ve done too much damage, we want you to hear this clearly: there is hope, and your story is not over.
Subscribe for more, share this with someone who’s been fighting their own inner critic, and leave a review so more people can find the conversation. What stronghold are you ready to confront this week?
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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The world can feel like it’s turning up the heat by the day, and a lot of us are carrying that pressure in our minds, families, and faith. We sit with a hard but hopeful idea: heavy times are not new, and living with real expectation for Jesus Christ’s soon return is meant to form us, not frighten us. When we keep that horizon in view, it fuels hunger to know Him now and invites us into deeper unity as the presence of God melts down our defenses and reshapes us from the inside out.
We dig into a simple metaphor with big spiritual punch: lift. Just as an aircraft wing needs resistance to rise, spiritual resistance can become the friction God uses to elevate our perspective. Instead of getting weighed down by conflict, suffering, and adversity, we talk about yielding to the Holy Spirit and discovering an inner-core peace that replaces striving. We also name the danger of relying on externals, especially in Western culture, and why God often uses pressure as a refiner’s fire that teaches us to live from the inside out.
Along the way, we anchor the conversation in key Bible passages for Christian encouragement and spiritual growth: Isaiah 40:31, Colossians 3:1–2, Ephesians 2:6, and 2 Corinthians 4:17–18. We challenge the modern “find yourself” mindset and point to identity in Christ as stable, secure, and Spirit-empowered. Finally, we get candid about the cost of discipleship, Bonhoeffer’s warning about cheap grace, and what it means to pick up the cross daily while trusting God’s timing as perfectly on time.
If this helped you reframe what you’re facing, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs courage, and leave a review so more people can find the show. What’s one pressure point in your life that you want God to turn into lift?
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our website by typing in lifearoundthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
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Pain has a way of making you ask hard questions, and we do not dodge them here. Trevor McMahon joins us again for part two on suffering with purpose, anchored in Philippians 3:10 and the challenging phrase “the fellowship of His sufferings.” We talk honestly about persecution, opposition, and the strange reality that hardship can be evidence you’re walking close to Jesus, not proof you’ve been forgotten.
We dig into what suffering can produce that comfort never will: deeper intimacy with Christ, spiritual maturity, and a faith that has actually been tested. We walk through Scriptures like Psalm 34:18, James 1:2–4, 1 Peter 1:6–7, and Luke 9:23 to show how trials refine the heart, expose what still needs surrender, and build endurance in the valley. Trevor shares why fixing your eyes on Jesus changes how you interpret rejection, slander, and even real-world threats.
We also connect suffering to ministry and hope. God comforts us so we can comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3–4), and what you survive can become someone else’s breakthrough. We zoom out to eternity with Romans 8:18 and 2 Corinthians 4:17, then land on the center of it all: Jesus endured the cross because purpose gave meaning to pain.
If you’re carrying something heavy, let this strengthen your grip on Christ. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs courage, and leave a review so more people can find it.
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Pain has a way of making us ask the same question on repeat: did God leave me here? We sit down with Trevor McMahon to challenge one of the biggest misconceptions in modern Christianity, that suffering automatically means God is displeased or distant. Instead, we open the Bible and face a tougher truth with a stronger hope: the people who walked closest to God often faced the most resistance, and God still worked powerfully through them.
We spend most of our time in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, where Paul describes his “thorn in the flesh.” Trevor breaks down why the text calls it “a messenger of Satan” and makes the case that Paul is talking about persecution and opposition, not a sickness. Using Scripture to interpret Scripture, we trace the Bible’s “thorn” language back to the Old Testament and then forward into Paul’s real-world ministry in Acts, where revival and resistance often arrive together. If you’ve ever felt attacked for following Jesus, this perspective gives you language for what you are experiencing.
From there we talk about God’s response to Paul’s repeated prayer: “My grace is all you need.” The trouble does not instantly disappear, but grace increases, strength rises, and Christ’s power is made perfect in weakness. We connect that to Romans 5, Jesus’ teaching on persecution, and the surprising command to rejoice, not because pain is fun, but because suffering can produce dependence on God, boldness, purity, eternal rewards, and Christlikeness.
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Something is shifting, and we don’t want you to miss the timing. We’re talking prophetic ministry with a simple, clarifying distinction: foretelling points to what’s ahead, while forth telling declares what God is doing right now. That lens keeps the focus where it belongs, on spiritual growth and a living relationship with God that reshapes how we relate to each other.
Our main focus is a prophetic look at June 2026. We’re sensing an increased manifesting of the Kingdom of God, and the “significant punch” lands in the area of deliverance. We explore why deliverance is sometimes an instant breakthrough and sometimes a refining process, and why freedom isn’t just about feeling better but about the removal of evil’s influence so unity can actually form. When “me” becomes “us,” the prayer “deliver us from evil” takes on a different weight and points toward families, churches, and communities being set free together.
We also connect deliverance to holiness, not as rigid rule-keeping, but as the beauty that grows when weeds are pulled and the good can finally thrive. Along the way, we touch spiritual warfare, the pressure that comes against your calling, and the practical encouragement to submit to God, resist the devil, and refuse to quit. We close with prayer and a reminder that we’d love to hear from you.
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You can be faithful and still feel like you are breaking. If you are in a season where the pressure is higher than anything you expected, we are speaking encouragement straight into that place with a message that does not sugarcoat the struggle: God often demonstrates His strength most clearly when we feel weak, stretched, and out of options.
We talk about discipleship as a real-life call into the impossible, where the kingdom of God moves forward by the power of the Holy Spirit, not by our talent or sheer will. Along the way, we get honest about the daily grind of carrying your cross, including those moments when you slip into complaint and negativity. That “whine and cheese party” might feel harmless, but it can quietly block trust, joy, and spiritual growth.
We also look at the cross of Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of strength in weakness, where apparent defeat becomes resurrection power. From there, we connect the Tower of Babel to modern self-reliance and spiritual counterfeits, and we call out anything that becomes an idol between us and God’s love. The charge is clear and practical: do not quit, submit yourself to God, resist the devil, and trust the One who is faithful to bring you through.
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You can have the whole world and still feel empty. We go straight at that lie with a personal story that spans more than 50 years: a teenage encounter with Jesus that changed everything, the painful quiet that followed, and the long detour into a hard and fast life that looked like it would end in ruin. If you’ve ever thought, “I went too far,” or “I wasted my best years,” we want you to hear this clearly: God didn’t leave, and your story is not finished.
We talk about covenant relationship with Jesus as an all of life exchange, not a religious label. That includes the raw honesty of addiction, the weight of shame, and the moment God answers the cry, “I’ve created a monster,” with a shocking promise of purpose. We also share why the cross is not abstract theology to us, but personal love, and why being made clean is possible even after years of destruction.
Then we turn to a practical blueprint for Christian living and discipleship from Ephesians 5:15 to 20: be careful how you live, make the most of every opportunity, refuse drunkenness and debauchery, and be filled with the Holy Spirit with worship, gratitude, and encouragement. If you want freedom that lasts and wisdom for daily decisions, this is a passage to live in. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs hope, and leave a review so more people can find it. What’s one “premature conclusion” you’re ready to lay down?
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Most of us walk into a room quietly asking, “What am I going to get out of this?” We wanted to offer a reset that’s short, direct, and practical: the next time you get together with friends, family, or other believers, plan on being a giver.
We talk about what Christian generosity can actually look like in real life. Yes, sometimes it’s money. Just as often it’s a word of encouragement, a moment of prayer, or the courage to let God use you to strengthen someone through the gifts of the Spirit. The goal isn’t a one-time act. We’re aiming for a lifestyle of giving, not because we have to, but because we get to.
From there, we tie generosity to discipleship and the example of Jesus. God gives, Jesus gives everything, and we’re called into that same pattern of love. We also push back on a shallow “faith equals getting stuff” mindset and name the bondage of scarcity and begging. We want abundance for a reason: so we can be free to give. Even if it starts small, it starts with a decision.
We wrap with a prayer asking God for wisdom to maximize the life and provision He’s entrusted to us, so we can show the world what giving looks like. If this encouraged you, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show.
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Control feels like safety until it starts costing you peace. We sit with one of the most personal challenges in spiritual growth: surrender to God. Not the vague kind that sounds nice on a coffee mug, but the real kind where you hand over your plans, your “rights,” your need to be understood, and your fear of what might happen if you stop managing everything.
We explore why surrender feels unnatural in a culture shaped by rugged individualism, and why Scripture points us toward covenant trust instead. Along the way we bring in Ecclesiastes and the ache many of us carry when achievement still feels empty. We talk about the kingdom of God as a lived reality marked by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit and how that shalom peace pushes back on anxiety, pressure, and lack.
Then we go straight at the obstacle that stops most people cold: the fear of prolonged pain. We unpack Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” from 2 Corinthians 12 and the shockingly honest promise that God’s grace is sufficient and that his power is made perfect in weakness. We also share how surrender in suffering can lead to deeper intimacy with Jesus and to a life that can carry real spiritual authority with unity, love, and endurance.
If you have been asking God to take something away and nothing is moving, this will give you language, hope, and a next step. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs strength, and leave a review with the biggest takeaway you heard.
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If you have ever done all the “right” Christian things and still felt empty, we are going straight at that tension. We talk openly about how easy it is to slip into dead religion: programs, repetition, and spiritual language without the felt reality of God’s presence. Being a decent person is not the finish line, and going through the motions cannot satisfy the hunger for real faith, real hope, and real love rooted in relationship with God.
We also make a vulnerable announcement. We have been building toward a teaching series on King David, the life of David, and the Tabernacle of David, including the prophetic relevance many people connect to 24/7 worship and the soon return of Jesus Christ. But we are not launching it yet. Why? Because we do not want to deliver something that is merely presented. We want it to be birthed, shaped by prayer, humility, discernment, and the accompanying presence of the Lord, not just a well-made outline.
That is where you come in. We ask for intercession, strategic prayer, and a growing base of prayer support so what we share stays alive, God-centered, and strong enough to carry fruit without toppling. We close by praying for intercessors to be raised up and for God’s kingdom to be expressed with power and clarity. If this resonates, subscribe, share the episode with a friend who feels stuck in routine, and leave a review so more listeners can find these conversations.
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You can talk about the Tabernacle of David all day and still miss the point if you only mean music. We sit down with Dr. Bill Hurst for part two and treat David’s story as a blueprint for a worship lifestyle that forms something rare: a heart God calls “perfect.” That’s not a personality type or a stage gift. It’s the fruit of years of honest relationship with God.
We walk through why Amos 9:11 and Acts 15 connect the restoration of David’s tabernacle to God drawing in the Gentiles, and why that restoration includes far more than a worship portion. David teaches us to worship through every kind of season: obscurity, monotony, danger, betrayal, leadership pressure, family conflict, and deep disappointment. We also get painfully practical about sacrifice, including Hebrews 13 and the forgotten “sacrifices” of doing good and communication, the kind that can save a home and mature a church.
From there we lean into mercy, repentance, and the “sure mercies of David,” asking what it looks like to become people who carry God’s character and dispense mercy with authority from the throne of grace. We close with a clear-eyed look at prophetic ministry today: revelation is not the hardest part, interpretation and application are, and God is purifying the prophetic so accuracy does not inflate pride and mixture does not dilute truth.
If this helped you, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find Life Around the Fire. What part of David’s pathway feels most real to you right now?
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We kick off a new series on David with Dr. Bill Hurst, asking why Scripture calls him a man with a perfect heart and what that means for our lives right now. We trace how worship, repentance, and “due order” train us to carry God’s presence personally and as a people.
• defining the tabernacle of David as a lifestyle of relationship with God
• pursuing God’s heart rather than gifts, ministry, or image
• the ark as a picture of the manifest presence of God
• learning from David’s mistake of the right heart but wrong method
• searching Scripture to understand how to steward holy things
• why God may return His presence in an unexpected context
• tabernacle of Moses, tabernacle of David, and Solomon’s temple as transition patterns
• the goal of God dwelling with people and God being all in all
• worship as training to produce the presence with an audience of one
• “due order” and the call for many to carry the presence together
• partial fulfillment versus complete fulfillment in prophecy
If you have any questions, thoughts, concerns, you can feel free to drop us a line at life around the fire at gmail.com. That's life around the fire at gmail.com. Or you can just type in life around the fire and look us up on the web. Stay tuned for part number two.
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When God feels quiet, most of us assume heaven is closed. We take the silence personally, try to push harder, and end up more frustrated than formed. We go a different direction here: God is clear in His communication, and when something feels off, it’s often because our spiritual senses have grown dull. That doesn’t mean you’re hopeless. It means you can get honest about what’s happening inside and start healing.
We unpack a simple image with real bite: spiritual calluses. Like physical calluses formed by repeated friction, the heart can harden through daily compromises, stressful environments that clash with your values, and relationship patterns like the constant need to be right. We also explore the Bible’s language around the “fatty heart,” a picture of spiritual insensitivity that becomes resistant to compassion and truth. One of the most searching angles is how pain avoidance can create an emotional buffer that keeps us from feeling much of anything, including the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
The second half turns practical with clear next steps for Christian discipleship and spiritual growth: repent by changing direction, spend quiet time listening and letting God lavish His love, practice forgiveness that releases real debt, and invite trusted people to pray for you so you can move forward with restored spiritual sensitivity. If you want to hear God clearly, sense His presence, and obey without grinding in your own strength, this conversation will give you language and a path.
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God feels silent right around the moment you need Him to move. That gap between what we pray and what we see can stretch faith to the breaking point, and it can also tempt us to ask the same question Peter heard in the first century: “Where is this coming He has promised?” We sit with that tension honestly and then anchor it in Scripture, because hope needs more than hype when life gets heavy.
We read and reflect on 2 Peter 3, where Peter urges believers toward “wholesome thinking” while scoffers mock the promise of Jesus’ return. The passage reframes delay as mercy: God is not slow, He is patient, not wanting anyone to perish. We talk about how that perspective changes the way we handle pressure, persecution, financial strain, deadlines, and the inner swirl of anxiety, fear, and doubt. We also name a hard truth: feelings are real, but they are not always accurate, which is why God’s written Word becomes a lifeline when you cannot feel His presence.
From there, we lean into what the early church modeled so well: encouragement, exhortation, and steady love inside community. Waiting is not empty time; it can grow obedience, kindness, gentleness, and endurance, shaping us to become more like Jesus while we look forward to God’s promises. If you’re wrestling with God’s timing or feeling worn out by unanswered prayers, come listen, share this with a friend who needs strength, and leave a review so more people can find the show.
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When the world feels like it’s coming apart, what if the deepest issue isn’t politics or headlines, but whether our hearts are ready for God? We talk about prophetic ministry as a mercy, a forewarning that helps us understand the times without getting swallowed by fear. With war escalating in the Middle East and Israel once again at the center of global attention, we explore why Israel is described as “God’s sundial” and how events there can signal larger spiritual realities.
From there we move into a sobering theme: the manifestation of God’s presence comes in waves, and those waves don’t land the same way on everyone. We unpack the line, “the same sun that melts butter hardens clay,” and connect it to the difference between living in relationship with Jesus versus clinging to dead religion or false security. As God reveals His majesty, some people long for His glory, while others experience terror because they feel unprepared to meet Him.
We ground the conversation in Isaiah and Revelation 6, where people hide in caves and among rocks, even crying out for the mountains to fall on them to avoid the face of God. That raises an honest question: if you feel dread about the day of the Lord, could that be a spiritual alarm telling you God wants to deliver and purify something? We close with prayer, pointing to Jesus Christ as our refuge, strong tower, and only real security. Subscribe, share this with a friend who’s wrestling with fear, and leave a review. What part of this stirred questions for you?
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Prophecy can mess with your sense of time. One minute you’re confident you heard God clearly, and the next you’re wondering why nothing has changed. We open with a blunt picture that explains the problem: prophetic insight can be like driving down a freeway at 100 miles an hour while looking through binoculars. You can see the mountain peaks, but you can’t see the long valleys in between, and that gap is where discouragement loves to live.
We turn to 2 Peter 3 for a grounded, Scripture-based reset. Peter names the voice of cynicism and spiritual fatigue, the “where is the promise?” question, then answers it with a bigger view of history and an even bigger view of God. What sounds like delay is often patience, and that patience is not weakness. It is mercy that creates time for repentance, salvation, and real inner change.
From there we get practical about spiritual formation: doubts rising to the surface, the dross being skimmed away, and the difference between holiness powered by grace versus holiness powered by self-effort. We talk about “beholding and becoming,” letting the peace of God guard our hearts, and learning to steward the weighty presence of God without trying to earn what Jesus already paid for. We also touch on unity in the body of Christ and end with prayer and a clear cry of hope: Maranatha, come Lord Jesus.
If this message strengthens you, subscribe, share it with a friend who feels stuck in the waiting, and leave a review. What promise are you still holding on to, and what makes waiting hardest for you?
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Following Jesus sounds inspiring until it costs you something real: approval, comfort, and the sense that everyone is on your side. We start with what we love about Jesus, that He tells us like it is. He doesn’t sell discipleship with a soft pitch and hide the hard parts. He names the conflict up front: if the world hated Him, it will hate His followers too, and sometimes the tension can cut right through a household.
We also walk through a sobering scene from the Gospels (Mark 3 and the parallel passages) where Jesus faces pressure not only from religious authorities but from His own family. With crowds pressing in and accusations swirling, they try to pull Him back, worried about what His ministry is doing to the family name. Jesus answers with a defining question: who is my family? His response re-centers everything on faith, obedience, and doing the will of God, even when it feels lonely.
From there we get painfully practical about people pleasing and fear of man. If you’re called to lead, serve, or simply obey God in a hard moment, you will eventually face the test of disappointing someone. We talk about why people pleasing is bondage, how God may even arrange circumstances that purge it out, and why that refining creates real spiritual growth and kingdom momentum. The goal isn’t becoming harsh; it’s becoming free.
If you’re staring at a decision that won’t be popular, let this be your encouragement to please God first. Listen now, share this with a friend who needs courage, and leave a review so others can find us. What’s one area where you’re choosing obedience over approval right now?
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If your life feels like it’s getting smaller instead of better, you’re not alone and you’re not broken. We talk candidly about spiritual pruning, the kind that feels like being stripped down to nothing, and why we believe God often initiates that refining work right before He entrusts greater weight and responsibility. This is discipleship without the polish: surrender over comfort, God at the center rather than on the shelf, and a faith that learns to lean on Him instead of proving how strong we are on our own.
From there, we connect the personal to the prophetic. We share why Israel matters as a “sundial” for biblical prophecy and why the church should pay attention when major shifts happen in the land. With Ezekiel 38 and 39 as our anchor, we discuss Gog and Magog, the nations described in the text, and the claim that God Himself will make His name known in a way that grabs the attention of the whole world. That perspective reframes the headlines: not as fuel for fear, but as a call to discernment, humility, and readiness to meet Jesus.
We also slow down on the meaning of God’s glory. We describe it as weighty and substantive, not vague or misty, and we ask what has to be removed in us before we can steward that presence well. If you’ve been hearing talk of revival while experiencing weakness, this conversation offers a different lens: refining may be the preparation you’ve been praying for.
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You can be tired of religion and still be headed the wrong way. We sit with a tension most of us feel but rarely name: the craving to live autonomously while claiming faith in a God who says we were purchased and now belong to Him. If you have ever said “I’m done” and meant it, done with empty rules, done with performing, done with trying to earn God’s approval, this conversation is for you.
We open Luke 15 and slow down with the story of the loving father, the prodigal son, and the older brother. One runs hard into reckless living and ends up in a dry land of hunger and regret. The other stays close to home but lives like a slave, keeping score and resenting grace. We talk about why both rebellion and religious striving can create spiritual distance, and how each one quietly blocks peace, dulls our ability to hear God, and pushes us toward burnout.
Then we turn toward the way back: repentance that leads to restoration, covenant relationship instead of self-reliance, and daily dependence on the Holy Spirit. The Father’s heart is not to negotiate your return but to restore your identity and bring you home. If you want spiritual growth that is real, grounded, and relational, press play.
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What if the whisper that says you’re unworthy isn’t yours at all—but a trespasser you can lawfully remove? We share how a simple homegrown show became a global conversation about the manifest presence of God, and why rising light often stirs a backlash from darkness. Through raw personal moments and clear scripture, we break down how accusation works, why fear of death hides beneath so many decisions, and how Jesus’ victory reframes both identity and authority for everyday believers.
We walk through the difference between inspiration and authority, and why covenant language—spoken in the name of Jesus—carries weight that emotions can’t fake. You’ll hear practical, exact words for confronting oppression, what it means to call out trespass, and the reason the kingdom backs believers who echo what the Father has already declared. Rather than chasing trends or copying others, we return to the Bible as our standard and Christ as our model, exploring how to behold him until our speech and steps align with his.
This conversation widens to a hopeful horizon: God is revealing his glory across nations in ways that are tangible, disruptive, and deeply personal. Expect pressure where light advances. Expect lies to target your past and your sense of calling. And expect breakthrough when you stand in your covenant rights as a co-heir with Christ. If you’re tired of feeling pushed around by invisible weight, this is your invitation to stand up, speak with clarity, and watch darkness move.
If this resonates, share it with a friend who needs courage today, subscribe for future episodes, and leave a review with one line about the authority you’re choosing to walk in this week.
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What if one brave, ordinary act from a parent could echo for decades and reshape a child’s view of God? We share a raw, hopeful journey from the chaos of addiction to the slow, steady work of rebuilding trust—with a school bus story that became a lifelong anchor. Along the way, we preview our upcoming deep dive into 1 Samuel and the life of King David, connecting his battles, restorations, and leadership to the spiritual moment we’re all living through right now.
We open our hearts about how alcohol warped communication, turned small moments into wounds, and taught our kids to brace for impact. Then we talk about the turning point: a sober life rooted in Jesus and empowered by the Holy Spirit, where words become clear, boundaries feel safe, and presence replaces performance. A weekend with our oldest son pulls back a treasured memory—dad stepping onto a bus, setting a firm boundary, and offering something children crave more than perfect parents: a secure defender who shows up without mocking their need.
From there we unpack why trust is a survival skill, not a luxury. When parents model protection, consistency, and honest repair, children learn how to rest, how to listen, and how to believe their heavenly Father will meet them with help instead of harm. We explore honor as a practical path that opens channels for wisdom and peace, and we reflect on how recovered relationships can become living parables of grace. The throughline is simple and strong: presence builds safety, safety births trust, and trust makes faith possible.
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What if the church has been running on half power—brilliant in analysis, but dim in the one faculty designed for communion with God? We sit down with Tracy Perez to explore a bold, restorative claim: the Christian life is meant to be led by the heart through a purified imagination. Not fantasy. Not trend-chasing. A scriptural, time-tested way of seeing that turns revelation into embodied practice.
We trace a surprising arc: from the vivid, image-rich pages of scripture to the prayer rhythms of the Desert Fathers, where lectio divina trained believers to picture, pray, and sing the Word until it shaped their inner world. Tracy shares how neuroscience affirms what the saints practiced—mental rehearsal activates the brain as if we lived it—making contemplation a gateway to real transformation. Along the way, Connor’s nonverbal insights challenge our assumptions about attention, language, and spiritual sensitivity, pushing us to ask deeper questions without falling for spectacle.
We also face the “great forgetting.” The Enlightenment’s fixation on what can be measured sidelined the heart’s ways of knowing. Exegesis and hermeneutics matter, but when they eclipse contemplation, faith grows thin. Our aim is integration: keep rigorous study, restore the inner eye, and let the Spirit join head and heart. Expect practical steps—silence, stillness, watchfulness, and imaging scripture—to help you cultivate a steady awareness of God in daily work and prayer. The goal isn’t a novel experience; it’s communion with the Father that renews desire, clarifies discernment, and bears fruit in action.
If this stirs something in you, journey with us. Subscribe, share this conversation with a friend hungry for a deeper life with God, and leave a review to help others find it. Your reflections shape future episodes—send questions and tell us what practice you’ll try this week.
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What if imagination isn’t make-believe but the very way the heart sees God? We welcome Tracy Perez to pull a long thread through Scripture and history, showing how the Hebrew Yetzer (imagination/inclination) and the Greek nous (often translated mind) describe a core capacity of the heart: to behold, to be shaped, and to act. From Eden’s design to the flood and Babel, we track how powerful imagination can bless or break a people, and why Paul prayed that the “eyes of your heart” would be enlightened so we could know hope, inheritance, and power in Christ.
Together we unpack why many of us were trained to distrust imagination and how that loss has thinned our worship, our discipleship, and even our planning. Jesus didn’t hand out sterile definitions; He painted moving scenes—the lilies of the field, seeds in soil—inviting us to picture truth until it forms us. We explore the etymology of “imagination” as image nation: a people of the same origin as the Image, brought forth with Him, and participating with Him. That lens reframes spiritual formation, prayer, and mission: what we repeatedly behold becomes what we quietly become.
We also touch on research suggesting thoughts have shape and weight, adding urgency to the call for a sanctified imagination. Childlike seeing isn’t naivete; it is recovered design. Renewing the nous means curating our inner gaze, praying Scripture with attention, envisioning Christ’s presence in daily life, and refusing images that deform love. The goal isn’t novel experiences—it’s communion with Abba. If you’ve felt tugged to reclaim your inner vision but met resistance, this conversation offers language, theology, and practices to help you behold Jesus and be transformed from glory to glory.
If this resonates, share it with a friend, subscribe for more, and leave a review to help others find the show. What’s one image from Scripture you’ll carry into your week?
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What if the smallest act of kindness could do more than brighten a mood—what if it could carry God’s presence into someone’s hardest hour? We open our hearts and our playbook to share how simple, intentional kindness has become a daily practice, a spiritual posture, and a bridge between communities that might never meet in person. From Jacksonville, Florida to a fellowship near Kisii, Kenya, we’ve discovered that generosity and prayer travel farther together than either could alone.
Our ongoing friendship with Pastor Moses and Rock of Hope is a case study in mutuality: where American resources stretch through Kenya’s economy, and Kenya’s deep, resilient faith strengthens us when we feel thin. We talk frankly about money and integrity in a world flooded with scams, and why transparency, trust, and measurable care are non‑negotiables. We also explore how a cup of coffee, a timely message, or quiet help often speaks louder than a thousand words. Sometimes the Spirit rides on a simple gift; sometimes words of hope are the gift. Wisdom is listening for which is needed now.
We share why we pursue a naturally supernatural life—seeking healing without hype, never faking what God hasn’t done, and never denying what He can do. Kindness becomes formation: loving the people who stretch us, not just the ones who are easy to love. It’s how “spots and wrinkles” are lifted from weary days, how strangers become friends, and how a Church spread across continents becomes one family. If you’re curious about praying, giving, or one day traveling with a team to support the work in Kenya, we’ll be posting updates and practical next steps on our site soon.
Join us, not for a program, but for a posture. Try one intentional kindness today and see what doors God opens. If this resonates, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review—tell us your best idea for a small act of love we can all try this week.
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When church scandals break, the headlines move fast and the hot takes come easy. We wanted to slow down and ask the harder questions: how do we tell the truth without turning justice into a spectacle, and how do we protect people while resisting the mob’s appetite for more? From the televangelist collapses of the 1980s to today’s social media “prophecy,” staged miracles, and platform-driven hype, we pull back the curtain on deception and the subtle ways it thrives when discernment gives way to performance.
We talk candidly about Jesus’ warning to “take heed that no one deceive you,” and why discernment requires both courage and empathy. That means exposing manipulation, false teaching, and spiritual abuse without celebrating anyone’s downfall. We share a raw personal story of being exposed and the damage done when private failure becomes public currency, spreading to people who cannot help and only wound. The result is often a witch-hunt culture where suspicion replaces wisdom and accountability collapses into shaming. Two wrongs don’t make a right, and outrage doesn’t make a church healthy.
So what’s the better path? A ministry of reconciliation aimed at restored relationship, not a rushed return to ministry. We lay out practical principles: keep your head low, guard your tongue, involve the right people, practice discretion without cover-ups, and stay anchored in a culture of honor. Platforms come and go, but relationships are eternal. Truth and mercy can meet when we refuse to pigpile and choose to rebuild trust with patience, boundaries, and real repentance. If you’re longing for a church culture that handles hard things with both clarity and compassion, this conversation will give language, hope, and next steps.
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What if your everyday words are building the world you live in? We dive into the heart as the wellspring of life and trace how thoughts turn into speech that shapes relationships, atmosphere, and even our sense of calling. Starting with the cross, we name the sarx—the fallen nature—crucified with Christ, and we explore what it means to live as new creations who carry the life of Jesus within. From there, we get practical about language: not policing syllables, but yielding our mouths to the Holy Spirit so that what we say aligns with what the Father is saying.
We press into the mystery of glory and relationship. The Father conceives, the Son speaks, the Spirit brings to pass—and that divine pattern becomes a template for how we create with God. We talk about unity forged by presence rather than debate, the intensifying revelation that illuminates what has been hidden, and the way God’s Kingdom grows like seed—quietly, steadily, even while we sleep. Along the way we confront idle talk, self-sabotaging phrases, and the small narratives we reinforce without thinking. In their place, we practice speech rooted in identity: we have the mind of Christ, equal in value though different in function, called to carry righteousness, peace, and joy.
This conversation is both devotional and catalytic. Expect Scripture, honest self-audit, and a call to upgrade your inner dialogue and outer voice. If life and death sit in the power of the tongue, then our daily words are a sacred trust. Join us as we ask the Spirit to cleanse imagination and language, teach us to say what the Father is saying, and prepare us to serve as signs and wonders—people whose lives and words glow with the light of Christ. If this resonates, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs courage today, and leave a review to help more listeners find the show.
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A soaked boat, a silenced storm, and one piercing question: who is this man? We follow that question into a rich journey through the names of Jesus—Advocate, Creator, Lamb of God, Prince of Peace, True Vine—and explore why each name is more than a title. It’s a doorway into His heart and a remedy for ours. Instead of grinding harder to be “better,” we lean into a different way: beholding before behaving, worship before willpower, adoration before action.
Across the conversation, we unpack how specific names interact with real-life needs. Call Him Bread of Life when exhaustion drains your resolve. Trust Him as Rock when the ground shifts. Look to the Good Shepherd when decisions blur, and claim Resurrection and Life where hope runs thin. By praying His names—at home, in small groups, and on Sundays—we invite His character to reshape our habits, soften our conflicts, and deepen our unity. This isn’t spiritual theater; it’s a simple practice that changes rooms and hearts: exalt the name of Jesus and see what happens.
We also share a personal confession: among all these titles, Friend remains a treasure. Friendship with Jesus holds together awe and nearness, keeping reverence warm and intimacy honest. The episode closes with a heartfelt prayer for a groundswell of adoration in our gatherings and quiet hours—less distraction, more devotion, and a fresh draw toward the One who calms storms inside and out. If this resonates, share it with a friend, subscribe for more, and tell us which name of Jesus you’re holding onto this week. Your reflections shape what we explore next, so leave a review or drop us a note and join the chorus.
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While I was on a call with Pastor Moses Onsongo from Rock of Hope Church in Kenya, Africa the Word of the LORD came to me and said to us, "Give IT away!" because God loves to do things together It broght Him joy as He used my body to release His Heart and Word of "Giving"... He is a Giver! Jesus is a Giver. The Father is a Giver. God is a Giver. Jesus gave everything away... Even the Life that was in His Blood shedding IT all while being beaten and tortured to death on the cross for our sins. Then a single, piercing word set the tone for our time together: "Give it away." We talked candidly about receiving from God with gratitude, using what we need with wisdom, and then releasing the overflow so others can thrive. No hype, no hustle—just a clear call to become people known for generosity in everyday life.
We unpack how abundance is designed to move through us, not stop with us. From spiritual insight to practical help—food, clothing, money, time, attention—every good thing we hold can become a lifeline for someone else. We challenge the habit of hoarding and the lure of using religion to get rich, and we lean into a healthier rhythm where open hands lead to open doors. You’ll hear a heartfelt prayer for a fresh desire to give, for joy in generosity, and for courage to live on less so more can be shared. Along the way, we offer simple steps: set a percentage for giving, keep a small “ready-to-give” fund, and ask each day, “Who can I bless?”
If you’ve ever wondered how to build a life that looks like love, this conversation gives you a starting line and a steady path. We believe you cannot outgive God—he keeps supplying as we keep sharing. The goal isn’t to impress; it’s to impact: meet real needs, strengthen real people, and let your reputation be generosity. Listen now, then try one concrete act of giving today and see what doors open next.
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When a nation demands a crown it can see, it often loses a King it can trust. We follow Israel’s push for Saul, the missed opportunity to wait for David, and the hidden mechanics of compromise that feel small until they swallow the tent. Along the way, we name the pressures that lure us—comparison, speed, image—and offer a sharper path: sober patience, formed character, and choices that honor God’s timing over our impulses.
We open up the camel-in-the-tent parable as a living picture of drift, then link it to the very present tension many of us feel: a global standoff, frayed systems, and a rising expectation that God is about to pour out new wine. That promise comes with a condition—new wineskins. We explore what it means to lay down good things that no longer stretch, count the cost before saying yes, and receive authority that fits the season. This is not hype. It is the steady work of becoming people who can carry weight without bursting.
We also talk about practicing spiritual gifts with wisdom, the need for safe formation, and how the kingdom shows itself with clear signs: healing, freedom from oppression, and joy that lasts. The victory of Jesus is secure, but the battle is real; our part is willing surrender and faithful stewardship. If you’ve felt the pull to rush a decision, to mimic what “works,” or to cling to an old structure out of fear, this conversation offers clarity, courage, and a next step.
Listen now, share this with a friend who’s in a crossroads, and leave a review so others can find the show. Subscribe if you want more stories, scripture, and practical ways to trade impulse for God’s timing and carry the new without tearing the old.
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Ever wonder why some leaders break under pressure while others are shaped by it? We open up about hitting bottom, mistaking substitutes for the presence of God, and why honest surrender can reset both the mind and the soul. From Saul’s unraveling to the first steps toward David, the path is sobering and hopeful: consequences teach, grace restores, and real growth comes when relationship outruns performance.
We dig into how our brains actually mature—synaptic pruning, myelination, and the shift from impulse to wise judgment around age twenty-five—and why that matters for spiritual formation. Rather than shaming the past, we show how design and discipleship work together: practice builds pathways, community steadies choices, and the Holy Spirit doesn’t bypass our wiring but brings it to life. This lens reframes leadership struggles, decision-making, and the patience required to move from reaction to discernment.
We also examine why copying “successful” ministry programs often falls flat. Calling is contextual, lanes matter, and unity comes from complementary strengths, not one-size-fits-all strategies. As we pivot from Saul’s warning signs to David’s worshipful resilience, we trace the scarlet thread that points to Jesus—a king who leads through listening, waiting, and love that casts out fear. If you’re hungry for practical wisdom, spiritual depth, and an honest look at how people truly change, you’ll feel seen and strengthened here.
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A crown can look like destiny and still hide a fracture. We open the pages of 1 Samuel and follow Saul from public promise to private unraveling, then map that arc onto our own lives: insecurity dressed up as humility, people-pleasing disguised as wisdom, and impatience sold as leadership. Through vivid moments—an unauthorized sacrifice, edited obedience, frantic counsel from a medium—we explore how slow compromises lead to fast collapses, and how confession, not concealment, marks the road back to freedom.
Across forty years compressed into a few chapters, we track the inner logic of Saul’s choices and the outer fallout on his kingdom. Along the way, we name the modern equivalents: workaholism that numbs, religious performance that tires, shortcuts that sparkle but drain the soul. We contrast those patterns with a different path—trust rooted in relationship with God, rhythms that honor limits and timing, and a willingness to let the Spirit expose roots so the fruit finally changes. The result is a grounded, practical framework: tell the truth, receive correction, choose patient obedience, and build appetites for what brings life.
This conversation blends biblical insight with candid self-reflection, offering clear takeaways for leaders, parents, pastors, and anyone tired of managing an image they can’t sustain. We end with a prayerful call to courage: let God remove what’s in the way, reorder your steps, and restore your desire for what’s good, true, and lasting. If this resonates, share it with someone who needs hope, subscribe for more, and leave a review to help others find the show. What root are you ready to face today?
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A single Hebrew phrase reframed our view of leadership: long of nose, the image of breathing before reacting, patience over impulse. From there, we enter 1 Samuel not as a sprint through headlines but as a twenty-year map of the soul, tracking how Saul rises with promise and then slowly trades anointing for applause. The drift is subtle—unhealed insecurity, people-pleasing, and rushed decisions that look strategic but starve the inner life. We unpack why momentum can outlast presence, how warnings accumulate, and what it means when the Spirit’s covering lifts not in a moment but over years.
We also examine Israel’s demand for a king like the other nations and how that desire still echoes when we copy models that deliver optics without covenant depth. Fear becomes the byproduct of leadership detached from love: anxiety, control, envy, and division. Yet the thread of hope runs strong. Confession restores clarity. Repentance realigns desire. Across communities, rivalry is giving way to cooperation as leaders choose presence over platform and steward unity around God’s word and glory. This is not a seminar in tactics; it’s a return to covenant identity where perfect love casts out fear and obedience outruns approval.
We close with a candid invitation and a prayer: bring your whole self to God—faults, flaws, and all. Ask for a clean heart and a right spirit. Choose the slow formation that keeps you anchored when pressure says hurry. If this conversation stirred something in you, share it with a friend, subscribe for more, and leave a review with one insight you’re taking into your week. Your voice helps others find this space.
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What if the most mature thing you can do right now is weep, listen, and yield? We open the door on a raw, hopeful conversation about growing up in God—where tears mark holy ground, covenant outlasts spiritual highs, and surrender becomes a daily rhythm rather than a dramatic moment. We wrestle with a sobering world, challenge the comfort of old wineskins, and ask how to discern God’s voice without hiding behind nostalgia or national myths.
Lonnie helps us reimagine Jesus’ tone toward the Pharisees—not as a cold rebuke, but as a plea born of heartbreak. That shift changes how we speak to people drifting from faith and how we hold truth with tenderness. We look at the cross through the lens of submission: Christ trusted the Father even when he felt forsaken, modeling a faith that stands when feelings fail. From there, we talk about shared suffering, the pruning that produces fragrance, and the real work of laying down even good distractions so we can live available to God.
The story turns practical and global with our partnership at Rock of Hope in Kenya. From a small home studio, we connect with pastors, widows, and an orphanage, believing the village can blossom in agriculture, finance, and hope as we help host and steward God’s glory. It’s a quiet picture of the Kingdom’s upside-down power—the foolish things confounding the wise, the one lost sheep worth leaving the ninety-nine to find.
If you’re longing for vibrant faith that can hold sorrow and joy, conviction and kindness, this conversation will steady your steps. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs courage today, and leave a review to help others find these stories. Where is God asking you to surrender and grow?
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Hungry work without holy fuel only scorches the wick. We open the new year by digging into the parable of the Ten Virgins and asking a simple, searching question: are we carrying oil or just waving lamps? With Stephen Crews back in the studio for our Covenant Alignment series, we frame this moment in Tevet, a month in the Hebrew calendar known for divine strategy and instruction, and we focus on building an inner life that can bear the weight of our calling.
Together we trace the parable verse by verse, drawing out clear meanings: the lamp as ministry, the oil as intimacy with the Holy Spirit, and the midnight cry as the moment that reveals reality. We talk about why even sincere people grow weary, how delay exposes our foundations, and why the wise prioritize presence before performance. From Mary and Martha to the sober warning of Matthew 7, we keep the spotlight on one theme—knowing Jesus matters more than doing things for Jesus. You can’t borrow oil; you must buy it in the secret place.
We get practical with rhythms that cultivate oil: steady prayer that reframes decisions in God’s presence, fasting that quiets the flesh and clears the static, and Scripture that anchors discernment so we hold tightly to what God is saying and loosely to our first interpretation. We look at Abraham’s long wait to show how perseverance is disciplined fidelity, not mere survival. If burnout has crept in or your lamp feels dim, this conversation offers a path back to intimacy, clarity, and resilient joy.
Subscribe for more on covenant alignment, share this episode with someone who needs fresh oil, and leave a review to help others find the show. Then tell us: what practice will you adopt this week to tend your oil?
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What if the real shift so many feel isn’t about louder headlines, but about a quieter, deeper maturity taking root in people who carry the presence of God? We open the conversation by naming the problem with extremes—prophecy charts on one side, vague spirituality on the other—and make the case for a balanced, Scripture-wide view of the Kingdom. Instead of arguing over timelines, we focus on formation: the Kingdom within becoming visible without through a people who reflect Jesus in character, not just in claims.
From there, we get practical. How do you handle lies and misrepresentation without becoming bitter? We walk through a relational path to identity, where God defines who we are and maturity is measured by Christ’s nature shining through us. We share a framework for spiritual warfare that is sober and simple: bring false words before God, refuse agreement, and keep moving in love. Then we tackle discernment with encounters. Scripture tells us to test the spirits, and we dig into Revelation to show why God welcomes wise caution. A personal story related to David illustrates how to weigh experiences under the authority of Jesus and the witness of the Word.
We also explore the restoration of the tabernacle of David with fresh clarity. David’s tent wasn’t a final destination but a transitional piece in God’s larger architecture, pointing forward to a people formed by covenant mercy, worship, and a heart made whole in relationship. A powerful insight from Hebrews reframes worship as Jesus singing in the midst of the congregation—an atmosphere where pride yields, repentance flows, and authority is laid down like crowns at His feet. By the end, you’ll have a grounded vision for what this Kingdom shift looks like: balanced theology, tested spirituality, resilient identity, and worship where Christ truly leads.
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The holidays can be loud with joy and still leave space where the heart aches. We sit down with Dr. Bill Hurst for a frank, compassionate exploration of the Christmas blues, the weight of complicated memories, and the quiet courage it takes to choose love when celebration feels out of reach. From childhood years in protective care to teachings that labeled Christmas “pagan,” Dr. Bill charts a path many listeners will recognize: confusion, pressure, and an uneasy relationship with a season that’s supposed to be simple. What emerges is a wiser way forward—treating Christmas not as a test of correctness, but as a practical season for love, hospitality, and gentle witness.
Dr. Bill opens the door to his most painful chapter: the loss of his youngest daughter near Christmas. He shares how faith steadied sorrow without erasing it, how hope reframed grief, and why this time of year can still be meaningful when the chair at the table sits empty. We talk about moving from theological fights to relational presence, welcoming single neighbors and elders with no nearby family, and giving gifts that say “you are loved” with no strings attached. Along the way, we return to a core question that changes everything: did we learn to love?
If you’ve ever felt alone in December, this conversation offers warmth without hype and clarity without judgment. We reflect on becoming light by lifting Jesus with our lives, letting the Spirit guide us from knowing about truth to living it, and using the openness of the season to share comfort, courage, and the nearness of God. Join us, then tell a friend who needs a place to breathe. Subscribe, share this episode, and leave a review to help more people find a hopeful way through the holidays.
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What if your anointing is real, but your next step is a mop bucket, not a microphone? We follow David’s path in 1 Samuel 16 to uncover how God forms leaders by placing honor on the heart, not the highlight reel. Samuel arrives ready to choose the obvious heir, and God refuses the obvious. David, the forgotten eighth son, is brought in from the fields—and that quiet moment with oil becomes the beginning of a long, hidden education in wisdom, humility, and courage.
We unpack why “the Lord looks at the heart” isn’t a platitude but a blueprint. David’s passion for wisdom shows up later in Solomon’s counsel: get wisdom, develop good judgment, guard your heart. That pursuit explains how a teenager could run toward a giant. We connect Paul’s “spirit of adoption” to a royal training process—less instant promotion, more long obedience. The Spirit doesn’t just affirm identity; he tutors character. Over years, David learns to serve before he leads, to be faithful in obscurity, and to trust God when only sheep are watching.
Along the way, we challenge modern assumptions about calling and influence. Anointing is not a bypass around servanthood; it is fuel for it. From lions and bears to Goliath, David’s victories flow from dependence, not bravado. We bring this home with practical steps: embrace small beginnings, love one person deeply, serve where you stand, and let the Spirit shape your judgment for the battles ahead. If your heart needs courage, your calling needs clarity, or your hands need a holy task, this conversation will meet you in the field and walk you toward the throne God has in mind.
If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who’s in a waiting season, and leave a review—tell us the “small beginning” you’re committing to this week. Your story might spark someone else’s courage.
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Obedience sounds simple until fear, pressure, and convenience crowd the soul. We sit down with Trevor McMahan to examine why “obedience is better than sacrifice,” how Saul’s half-measures cost him favor, and why David refused to strike a fallen king. Through the story of the Amalekites and the ripple effects into the book of Esther, we unpack the law of sowing and reaping, the difference between gifts and favor, and the quiet wisdom of honoring God’s timing. It’s a timely call to resist outrage culture, stop platforming division, and choose the harder path of unity and prayer.
Trevor shares how divination isn’t just sorcery—it’s trusting any voice over God’s voice. That lens reframes leadership failures, our response to messy churches, and the temptation to weaponize discernment. We explore why leaving an unhealthy environment doesn’t require burning it down, why God can still work through imperfect vessels, and how a heart like David’s protects calling without compromising truth. Expect scripture, context, and a practical, pastoral tone that aims to heal rather than hype.
We also step into the tender ground of suicide—naming the lying voice, rejecting the myth of an unpardonable label, and speaking directly to anyone standing on the edge. Trevor offers a grounded testimony from street outreach and a prayer for freedom, worth, and life. If enemies once held a corner on iron, God held a corner on David; that same hope meets every listener who feels outmatched today. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs courage, and leave a review to help others find a lifeline. Then tell us: where is God inviting you to choose obedience, unity, and hope this week?
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Pressure mounts, the crowd scatters, and a leader reaches for a quick fix. We walk through 1 Samuel 13 and 15 to see why Saul’s hurried sacrifice and partial obedience cost him a kingdom—and what that reveals about the difference between religious activity and loyal trust. The stakes are high: when fear of people sets the agenda, authority withers and communities shrink. When obedience anchors our choices, God’s timing and presence carry the day.
We explore Israel’s shift from God’s direct rule to a human king and how the desire to look like other nations reshaped expectations of power. Saul’s choices feel familiar: act now, manage optics, justify results by calling them “worship.” Samuel’s words cut through the spin: to obey is better than sacrifice. We unpack the sacrificial system as a foreshadowing of Christ, not a tool for crisis management, and we consider how partial obedience—keeping the “best” for ourselves—still breaks trust. In contrast, God is already preparing David, reminding us that He works ahead of the curve, forming hearts that rely on Him rather than on weapons, strategies, or applause.
This conversation offers practical takeaways for pastors, team leads, and anyone navigating pressure: resist the urge to rush outcomes, replace people-pleasing with reverence, and let Scripture serve as your plumb line when vision is foggy. If we traded some noise for listening and acted on what God actually says, we would see more clarity, courage, and fruit that lasts. Join us, reflect on where you’re tempted to settle for almost, and share the episode with someone who needs a steady word. If this helped you, subscribe, leave a review, and tell us how you’re choosing obedience this week.
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A risky climb, a taunt from the hill, and a truth that won’t let go: nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few. We walk through 1 Samuel 13–14 and watch Jonathan move when others stall, not because the odds improve, but because covenant confidence changes how you read the odds. Alongside him stands an unnamed armor bearer whose simple yes—“I am with you heart and soul”—turns faith into action. Their partnership exposes a quiet power the modern world often misses: victories rise from visible leadership and unseen loyalty working as one.
We unpack the landscape of Israel under pressure, the tension between promise and resistance, and the way God uses small teams to shift large battles. Jonathan’s sign is both practical and prophetic; he seeks confirmation, then commits. From there, we explore what this means for our daily choices: when to step forward, how to carry another’s vision without resentment, and why motives matter more than mentions. If you lead, you’ll hear a call to humility, clarity, and gratitude for those who carry the weight with you. If you serve in the shadows, you’ll find language for your courage and a reminder that shared battles mean shared victories.
Woven through the story is a larger hope rooted in Jesus and the new covenant written on our hearts. Faith is not performance; it is participation in what God has promised to do. Whether your current season looks like Jonathan scaling cliffs or like an armor bearer keeping pace, the invitation is the same: act with courage, guard your heart from the lure of applause, and aim your work at God’s glory. If this conversation strengthens your resolve to move with faith—seen or unseen—subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review to help more listeners find it. Then tell us: where is God asking you to climb next?
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The world feels like it’s shifting under our feet, and for good reason: we’ve moved from steam to screens to something even more disruptive—the intelligence age. As AI turns questions into instant answers, we’re asking a deeper one: how do we stay rooted when change is relentless? We walk through the sweep of history, from the industrial and information eras to today’s surge of artificial intelligence, and then zoom in on the spiritual reality beneath the headlines. Knowledge can be fast; wisdom is formed. That gap matters.
We ground this moment in a larger story: God’s covenant faithfulness to Israel and our grafting in through Jesus. When transitions arrive, Scripture and nature agree—decrease often precedes growth. Trees shed leaves. Runners pass batons. Before resurrection, there was a cross and a silent tomb. If you feel stripped back, less capable, or spiritually thin, it may not signal failure. It might be pruning. In that hidden work, God drives the sap to the roots, building strength that will carry future fruit. We draw on Martin Luther’s “A Mighty Fortress” to remind our hearts: from age to age, God remains the same.
We also talk about the role of prophetic voices in times like these—forth-telling what is and foretelling what’s unfolding—so we can cooperate with grace rather than react to noise. Expect practical takeaways: how to name your pruning without shame, practices that deepen roots in a high-speed world, and ways to let technology serve discipleship instead of replace it. If the intelligence age accelerates access, we want to cultivate discernment, courage, and love that endure.
Join us for a steadying conversation about faith, AI, weakness, and hope. If this resonated, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a review to help others find the show. What transition are you walking through right now?
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Peace that holds in the middle of conflict isn’t a myth; it’s the fruit of living near to God. We open up the “secret place” as Scripture presents it—covenant nearness under God’s shelter—and show how this isn’t reserved for spiritual elites. From Psalm 91’s shadow of the Almighty to Jesus’ teaching about praying in the inner room, we connect temple imagery, priesthood, and the finished work of Christ to the way you pray, think, and live today.
Stephen shares a vulnerable story about wrestling with distraction, hearing the Spirit’s gentle correction about unrighteous judgments, and the freedom that followed through repentance. That moment becomes a blueprint: make space, meet God without performance, and let Him reorder what’s out of place. We talk about practical steps—fasting to clear the fog, a notepad to offload thoughts, habits that protect attention, and the simple courage to sit long enough for the mind to grow quiet. Along the way, we revisit Moses in the cleft and David in the tent, tracing a single thread: those who love God find shelter and direction beneath His wings.
If your calling feels complex, we simplify it: know Him and be known by Him. Assignments and purpose flow from there. Use righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit as a living dashboard for alignment, and when they dim, return to the secret place until they brighten. We close with a clear charge: seek first His kingdom, let Jesus take first place, and build disciplined choices that match your spiritual DNA. If this spoke to you, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs rest, and leave a review to help more people find the path to real peace.
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What if real spiritual authority isn’t achieved, but received through surrender? We dig into covenant alignment by tracing the promise to Abraham through its fulfillment in Jesus, then translate theology into practice with a clear, usable framework for daily life. From worship as obedience to the heart change promised in Ezekiel 36, we unpack how the Spirit transforms desire so discipline becomes a pathway, not a prison.
Stephen Crews returns to map six anchors for living under Jesus’ authority: trusting God through shared history, submission by design that honors Christ and appointed leaders, servant leadership that measures greatness by the towel, alignment with Scripture that guards zeal from error, accountable community that heals and refines, and the believer’s authority that flows only when we live under authority. Along the way, we revisit the centurion’s insight into chain of command, why good works are covenant signals rather than image management, and how “sent, not went” protects you from burnout and spiritual backlash.
You’ll hear practical prayer points to restore salt and light, soften hard places, and receive courage to take a step when the staircase is hidden. We press into ask, seek, knock as a lifestyle that enlarges your vision of Jesus—because the Jesus you know is the Jesus you get. If you’re hungry to reconcile faith and obedience, power and humility, mission and covering, this conversation offers clarity and a way forward.
Enjoying the show? Follow, share with a friend, and leave a review to help others find these conversations. Got questions or stories to share? Reach out at life are on the fire at gmail.com—let’s keep the dialogue going.
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When everyday life blurs into routine, it’s easy to chase quick fixes that look strong on the surface. Our conversation traces Israel’s turning point in 1 Samuel 8—when the people asked for a king like the other nations—and unpacks why impatience often taxes the future. We look at the warning God gave through Samuel about the hidden costs of human systems: conscription, taxation, and a creeping loss of freedom. That ancient caution sounds uncomfortably modern, especially when comparison and pressure make shortcuts feel irresistible.
We share why comparison edits reality, why covenant identity beats cultural approval, and how spiritual compromise can blind even sincere people. You’ll hear a practical framework for healthy transitions: name the real problem without forcing the solution, test desires for fear or envy, count long-term costs, and honor God’s timing. We also speak candidly about leadership pressure and people-pleasing—how urgency can push us toward “Saul” solutions while God quietly prepares a “David” in the wings. Along the way, we return to gospel-centered identity: citizens of an eternal kingdom, co-heirs with Christ, empowered by resurrection life to wait well and lead with courage.
If you’re standing at a crossroads—tired of the mundane, tempted by quick wins, or feeling the weight of others’ expectations—this episode offers clarity, biblical insight, and steady hope. Listen to learn how to resist deceptive appearances, embrace wise pacing, and make choices that align with God’s heart. Subscribe, share this with a friend who’s rushing a big decision, and leave a review with the toughest wait you’re facing right now.
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Change doesn’t just test plans; it tests hearts. We walk through the turbulent handoff from judges to monarchy in 1 Samuel and explore why some leaders bless the next season while others cling to control and crumble. Samuel stands in the tension, tasked with anointing a king the people demanded, modeling how to honor the past and obey God without being ruled by public pressure. Saul reveals the cost of pride and people pleasing, choosing his own plans and others’ opinions over God’s command. David offers a counterexample—humility, patience, and trust in God’s timing—showing a path for anyone facing a hard shift.
Across the conversation, we draw out practical lessons for transitions: how to bless new leadership, when to let go of approval, and why obedience beats optics. We talk about preparing for new roles without leaning on borrowed conviction, learning to hear God for yourself when mentors step back. We also dig into spiritual perception—seeing beyond what’s measurable to discern what’s true—so decisions aren’t driven by fear or trend-chasing. If you’ve ever felt torn between doing things the old way to keep peace and doing the right thing to keep faith, this one will steady your hands.
You’ll leave with simple, usable practices: cultivate humility and trust, evaluate choices by obedience rather than applause, and “stay in your lane” by aligning with God’s will instead of comparison. We close with prayer for wisdom and courage, inviting you to keep growing whether you’re starting a new role, handing one off, or standing in the messy middle. If this encouraged you, follow the show, share it with a friend who’s in transition, and leave a quick review to help others find these conversations.
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We open 1 Samuel and trace the scarlet thread of Scripture to a revealing portrait of Saul—a leader anointed by the Spirit, admired by people, and yet undone by fear of man and a restless heart. From the mountain-top moment of prophesying with the prophets to the valley of hiding among the baggage, we explore how a surge of spiritual power differs from the steady work of intimacy with God.
Together we unpack why anointing is functional—given to serve and to meet the needs of others—while relationship is covenantal, forming character that can carry weight. Samuel lays out order and obedience as the rails for blessing, a framework that protects hearts when the spotlight fades. We revisit Saul’s rally against the Ammonites, a stunning victory fueled by the Spirit’s power and righteous anger, and then face the sobering truth that public wins cannot heal private fractures. God still touches the hungry through imperfect vessels, but He cares deeply about who we are becoming when no one is watching.
This conversation leans into practical, heart-level questions: What happens when the power lifts? Where do we go when insecurity speaks louder than calling? How do we move from self-help to surrender, from hype to holiness? We point back to the atmosphere of God’s kingdom—righteousness, peace, and joy—and to a simple, costly path of obedience that invites lasting transformation. If you’re tired of chasing moments and ready to build a life with God that endures, this one will meet you where you are and call you deeper.
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Hunger is rising for a faith that runs deeper than services and schedules. We talk candidly about why programs alone can’t sustain a soul, why so many leaders end up burned out, and how true power flows when character is shaped in God’s presence. Using 1 Samuel as our guide, we slow down to the real pace of formation hidden inside a narrative that spans centuries, not minutes. Those quiet stretches—when nothing seems to happen—are where leaders decide whether to rely on hustle or learn to be carried by the Spirit.
Saul’s story becomes a sober mentor. He tastes the thrill of anointing, prophesies with boldness, and then hides among the baggage because fear still rules his heart. Later, pressed by people scattering and timelines slipping, he takes the sacrifice into his own hands and loses what could have been a lasting legacy. We unpack the gap between gifting and character, the seduction of people-pleasing, and the cost of rushing God’s order. The takeaway is clear: gifts can open doors, but only character—formed in God’s presence—can carry the weight of leadership without breaking.
We share practical ways to build what lasts: prioritize presence over production, welcome private testing before public collapse, practice waiting with prepared action, and measure fruit by transformed lives rather than busy calendars. For pastors, entrepreneurs, team leads, and anyone responsible for others, this is a call back to the Source. Listen for a prayer of healing and restoration for those wounded by burnout or disillusionment, and an invitation to re-enter community with renewed strength.
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A nation on the brink of change, a community under siege, and a leader torn between the fear of people and the fear of God—this conversation journeys through 1 Samuel 10–13 to uncover why character, not charisma, determines the future. We explore Israel’s move from judges to monarchy and why the desire to look like other nations exposed deeper heart issues. When Nahash threatened Jabesh Gilead with humiliation, the crisis revealed the danger of life on the fringe and the power of unity in covenant community.
We trace Saul’s early promise—prophetic signs, the Spirit’s empowering, and a new heart—alongside the cracks that later defined his reign: fear, impatience, disobedience, jealousy, and a habit of prioritizing public opinion over God’s commands. These are not ancient relics; they’re modern leadership pressures. We talk candidly about how gifting can lift you into visibility while undealt-with issues quietly erode trust, and why waiting on God’s timing is not weakness but wisdom. Had Israel waited, they would have aligned with God’s choice of David—a leader after God’s heart—rather than accelerating a solution that mirrored their divided desires.
This episode offers practical counsel for leaders and communities: stay connected to the center of fellowship where character is forged, build rhythms of confession and counsel, measure success by faithfulness not noise, and resist the lure to trade holiness for hype. We close in prayer, asking for a generation of leaders whose private lives are stronger than their platforms and whose power serves love. If this resonates, share it with someone who leads, subscribe for the next deep dive on Saul and David, and leave a review with one insight you’re taking forward. Your voice helps this message reach those who need it most.
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Hungry for a faith that feels alive, guided, and grounded in peace? We dive into covenant alignment as a relationship that reshapes daily life—less striving, more trusting—and learn how seeking first the kingdom reframes every choice, habit, and plan. Instead of chasing clarity, we begin with obedience, stepping when God says step, and discovering that direction often arrives mid-journey. Along the way, we talk about how character outlasts speed, why boundaries protect what we love, and how to build simple rhythms of prayer and Scripture that actually bear fruit over time.
We also open up a needed mindset shift: this walk isn’t a list of can’ts; it’s an invitation to participate in what heaven honors. That includes the Sabbath and the biblical feasts, not as salvation requirements but as relational rhythms that align us with God’s timing. Our Sukkot story brings the point home with a tangible moment of healing and a deeper experience of peace—a reminder that resistance can be an invitation to breakthrough when our will aligns with God’s. If you’ve ever felt like you’re fighting battles you didn’t need to fight, this conversation offers a reset and a way back to the straight and narrow without shame.
You’ll hear practical guidance on self-awareness, choosing better inputs, and avoiding the detours that lead to unnecessary warfare. We reflect on Abraham’s obedience, the prodigal story’s overlooked older brother, and the simple courage it takes to say, “If Your presence doesn’t go with me, I won’t go.” The heart is clear: become a person who is blessed to be a blessing, walking in the works prepared for you with integrity, patience, and joy.
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What if the battles wearing you down aren’t yours to fight—but signals that your life is out of alignment with the covenant you’re already part of? We open a new series with teacher Stephen Crews to explore covenant alignment: a clear, scriptural path from striving to authority, from constant warfare to steady union with God.
We start by defining covenant as a binding oneness—one plus one equals one—and alignment as active agreement with God’s will. Stephen traces the Abrahamic covenant in Genesis 15, where God alone walks the blood path, pledging to fulfill his promises by his faithfulness, not our effort. That scene becomes the root of Christian identity for Jew and Gentile alike, the reason Paul calls us Abraham’s seed and heirs according to promise. Forgetting our roots breeds confusion and fuels replacement theology; remembering them anchors our practices in a story bigger than our timelines. If authority follows agreement, then misalignment often explains the friction we feel: thoughts that contradict truth, habits that dilute devotion, and speech that reduces faith to performance.
From there, we move to Genesis 22 and the sobering clarity of worship as obedience. Abraham says “Here I am,” takes the next step without seeing the full staircase, and trusts God to raise the promise if needed. That’s avodah—worship as service, surrender, and work offered to God. The thread runs to Jesus in John 13: knowing his identity and destiny, he takes the towel and serves on the way to the cross. Real authority flows from yielded identity, not noise. The question becomes practical: are we fighting battles that alignment could resolve?
We close with simple, tested ways to realign: calibrate your inner world with Scripture, speak what God speaks, prune distractions that steal attention, and order time around presence and faithfulness. Let the blood of Jesus define your boundary and belonging. Seek first the kingdom and his righteousness, then take the next faithful step. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs clarity in the fight, and leave a review to help others find the series. What area of your life will you realign this week?
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A ruthless demand to “gouge the right eye” sounds like distant history, but the siege of Jabesh Gilead reveals something uncomfortably current: the enemy still bargains for small concessions that cost us our sight in the battles that matter. We walk through 1 Samuel 11, unpack who Nahash the Ammonite was, and explain why the right eye carried military, social, and spiritual weight in the ancient Near East. That lens opens up a larger theme—Israel’s recurring loop of revelation, drift, oppression, and rescue—and why so many of us feel trapped in the same pattern today.
From there, we zoom out to the promise Jeremiah foresaw and Jesus fulfilled: a new covenant written on hearts, not just on stone. Forgiveness is the doorway, but indwelling life is the house. We talk candidly about addiction, the futility of white-knuckled willpower, and the moment surrender stops being defeat and becomes transfer of power. The Holy Spirit doesn’t just come upon us for a moment; he lives within, teaching us to wait for power rather than rush into treaties with temptation.
You’ll hear practical, grounded steps to break cycles: ask for time the way Jabesh did, wait for help instead of grabbing the first escape, and choose the pace of peace over the hurry of fear. Prayer, simple obedience, quiet trust, and grateful worship become daily weapons, not religious chores. Refuse the “just one eye” deals. Keep your sight, keep your depth perception, and keep your future. Greater is the One within you than the pressure around you, and the same power that raised Jesus now strengthens your next choice.
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Editors note: David refered to Nahash as being a Philistine King. He was an Ammonite Ruler, not a Philistine King. Pressure makes bad deals look reasonable. We slow down to a pace of peace and turn two vivid stories—Jabesh-Gilead under siege in 1 Samuel 11 and Samson’s collapse in Judges 16—like a diamond, catching fresh angles on compromise, courage, and restoration. Nahash’s demand to gouge the right eye wasn’t only cruelty; it was strategy to erase vision and disable resistance. The elders’ unexpected move—asking for seven days—shows how time, community, and clear heads can keep us from signing away what we can’t afford to lose. Across the valley, Samson’s strength doesn’t vanish in a moment; it leaks through repeated choices until one sentence gives everything away. Then comes the chilling line: he did not know the Lord had left him. And yet, even in captivity, hair begins to grow.
We talk plainly about how choices and words set momentum. Your speech either builds a future or mortgages it. Your pace either makes room for wisdom or hands the pen to panic. Reading scripture with a hermeneutic eye—what it meant then and how it lands now—we surface practical tactics for spiritual warfare that don’t rely on bluster: buy time before binding decisions, get your people around you, refuse relief that demands permanent harm, and practice truth-telling even when it costs. We also name hope where it’s hardest to see. Restoration rarely explodes; it accumulates. Disciplines return. Discernment sharpens. The hand of God steadies those who turn back, and sometimes the final chapters accomplish more than the early victories ever did.
If you’re feeling besieged or ashamed, this conversation offers a map: delay the treaty, call for help, guard your words, and trust that what feels lost can grow again. Listen, share it with someone who needs courage today, and if it helped you, follow the show, leave a review, and tell us where you’re choosing peace over pressure.
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What if the real contest in your life isn’t busyness or burnout, but worship—what you give your attention to, and who gets to shape your desires? We open Scripture to 1 Samuel 11 and Judges 16 and trace how Israel’s story reveals the quiet currents that steer a soul: subtle influences, cultural pressure, and the unseen powers that promise fullness but leave us empty. From Samson’s slow drift to a people galvanized by God’s Spirit, we unpack how allegiance gets formed in tiny choices, and how those choices either cloud the heart or clear the way for courage, clarity, and peace.
We talk about being grafted into Israel’s promises through Jesus, why collective worship hosts God’s presence, and how the Holy Spirit fills without taking life while other spirits take without truly giving. Along the way, we confront modern materialism, name the lure of counterfeit comforts, and explain why attention is the gateway to affection and allegiance. If you’ve felt far from God, too compromised to turn back, or trapped by patterns that started as coping and morphed into control, this conversation offers a practical path home: repentance as reorientation, habits that aim your gaze at God, and community that keeps your compass true.
You’ll leave with language and tools to guard your attention, anchor your identity, and discern influence that leads to life. We also share a heartfelt prayer for those ready to realign and receive the fullness only Jesus gives. If this speaks to you, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs hope, and leave a review so others can find the message. Then tell us: where is your attention leading you today?
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What if the warning you’re tempted to ignore is actually an act of mercy? We walk through 1 Samuel 10 and the moment Israel traded a theocracy for a visible king, only to find Saul hiding among the baggage on coronation day. The picture is vivid and painfully familiar: when comparison drives our choices, we crown the wrong kings and pay for it later. From Baal’s seductive promises to the modern pull of envy and entitlement, we unpack how desire, image, and insecurity collide—and why God’s red lights are gifts, not obstacles.
As we trace the story, we explore the deeper issue beneath the politics: a heart that longs to be like everyone else. Saul’s reluctance and Israel’s momentum expose the cost of ignoring obvious signs, yet the thread of grace remains unbroken. We confront the lie of being “too far gone” with the good news that the blood of Jesus doesn’t just cover sin—it removes it. That shift from mere forgiveness to remission reframes failure, restores dignity, and opens the path back to wisdom. Through honest reflection and a grounded, hopeful prayer, we point to a better King who gives himself for his people and teaches us to stop at the next red light before harm multiplies.
If you’ve barreled through boundaries, felt the sting of comparison, or wondered whether you can truly start over, this conversation meets you where you are. We share personal testimony, practical insight, and a call to weigh the unseen costs of our choices. Listen for a fresh vision of leadership, holiness, and the freedom that comes from fixing your eyes on Jesus rather than the crowd. If this resonates, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs hope today, and leave a review to help others find the show.
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Attention builds identity. That’s the heartbeat of our conversation with Stephen Crews as we explore what it really means to “behold and become.” We start with Psalm 27:4—one thing, one focus, one desire—and trace how a lifestyle of beholding Jesus forms habits of mind and heart that outlast hype and hurry. Stephen shares concrete rhythms for silence, Scripture, and prayer, including a simple image for quieting mental noise: let the day’s thoughts pass like groceries on a belt until the line clears and you can listen. The goal isn’t chasing experiences; it’s cultivating relationship—steady, honest, and deeply transformative.
From there, we dig into grace as power, not permission. Drawing on 2 Corinthians 12 and Titus 2, we unpack how grace meets us in weakness, trains our desires, and enables real change. Sanctification becomes a partnership: God works in us as we align daily choices to His presence. We talk fruit of the Spirit as the public evidence of private abiding—love, patience, and self-control that others can “pick” in real life, especially under pressure. Along the way, we get practical about boundaries, fasting, and the slow work of renewing the mind so Scripture moves from page to personal encounter.
We end with a call to apprenticeship: become like the Teacher by living with Him, adopting His practices, and staying resilient when you stumble. If attention is destiny, this is how to aim yours: guard your quiet, keep your focus, and let grace do what effort alone never could. If this resonates, share it with someone who’s hungry for a steady way forward, subscribe for more conversations like this, and leave a review to help others find the podcast.
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What if your home life felt lighter, your marriage steadier, and your faith more alive—not by doing more, but by aligning your time with God’s? Stephen Crews joins us to trace a humble, hopeful path from the family dinner table to covenant alignment, sharing how Sabbath and the biblical feasts became the backbone of his spiritual growth, marriage, and parenting. His story moves from a loving childhood and long hours on the basketball court to an unexpected conversion and a marriage defined by extreme ownership, patient leadership, and simple, steady practices that invite the presence of God.
We dig into why attention shapes identity—beholding and becoming—and how small decisions compound into a life of peace. Stephen explains how honoring the Lord’s calendar isn’t about legalism; it’s about relationship and rhythm. He describes eight years of observing the feasts and the surprising ways God has met him, including a last-hour answer at Passover that still anchors his confidence. We talk about leading at home by example, learning prayer from a spouse, and why a weekly Sabbath can quiet the noise, strengthen unity, and make room for genuine rest. If the times feel darker, this conversation offers a bright, practical map: realignment over hustle, presence over performance, and a household faith that actually works.
If this resonates, share it with a friend who’s craving a saner pace, subscribe for more conversations like this, and leave a review to help others find the show. What’s one rhythm you’ll try this week—Sabbath rest, a shared meal, or your first feast?
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Have you ever wondered if God cares about the small details of your life? Those seemingly random events that feel inconsequential might actually be divine appointments orchestrated with purpose.
In our journey through 1 Samuel 9, we witness the fascinating story of how lost donkeys became the catalyst for Israel's monarchy. Saul, from the tribe of Benjamin, reluctantly embarks on a search for his father's missing animals that leads him directly to Samuel the prophet. What appears to be a frustrating errand transforms into a life-altering encounter when Samuel reveals God's plan to make Saul king over Israel. Most remarkably, Samuel already knows about the donkeys without being told – demonstrating God's intimate involvement in even the most mundane aspects of our lives.
This narrative challenges us to reconsider what we dismiss as coincidence. Those misplaced keys that made you late, that unexpected detour, or that chance meeting – could these be "God-incidents" rather than coincidences? The story also highlights the critical importance of humility in leadership. Saul begins his journey with appropriate humility, questioning his worthiness for such an important role. As we explore later chapters, we'll discover how departing from this humble posture ultimately became his downfall, teaching us that "if you had walked up the way you walked down, you would have walked down the way you walked up."
Join us around the fire as we unpack these timeless truths and discover how God weaves the ordinary threads of our lives into His extraordinary tapestry. Whether you're feeling lost in life's details or searching for purpose in seemingly random events, this episode offers fresh perspective on how God might be working behind the scenes. Subscribe now and share your thoughts with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com!
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Our goal in life is to walk in the balance of righteosness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. However, there are timees when we find ourselves drifting off course and we need to make corrections.
Irael was in that very place when we find them in 1 Samuel chapter 8. Samuel "The Seer" and one of The Judges of Israel was old and his sons weren't following in the footsteps of their faither. Their character was not like that of Samuel's.
It was coming to a time when Samuel would soon die and his sons would take over the leadership in Israel. The people could see the problem and the solution they recommended was for them to "have a king rule over them like the other nations had" (instead of God being their King).
They were gong to overcompensate for a legimate problem by choosing an extreme alternative situation. This would cause the pendulum of Israel to go into a completely different and further trajectory.
We are all tempted to do the same thing thing. Individually and as collectives as God's Ecclesia, The Body of Christ on a local church level. We choose the model of "the world system" around us as the source of our provision while tacking God's name on as though it was some sort of choice on a menu or a Figure being alloted a portion of our structured time fitting into His 15 minutes (like it or not not). Even if His Presence is absent we still claim "It's so nice to be in His Presnce"... Simply as a means to justify our using His name over our doors or the cross around our neck.
This is meant to be a corrective word calling us back into a place where God is Head of our lives and our gatherings are typified by His undeniable Glory and Power... The Kingdom of God being at hand!
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Trevor McMahan returns for part two of his illuminating exploration of 1 Samuel 8, where Israel's fateful decision to demand a king reveals profound spiritual lessons for today's believers.
McMahan masterfully decodes the spiritual significance behind Israel's request to "be like the nations around us," unveiling how this seemingly simple desire represents a failure to overcome the spirit of covetousness. Drawing from Genesis 15, he identifies ten spiritual "tribes" every believer must conquer – from fabricated accusations and religious traditions to fear of failure and victim mentality. These aren't merely ancient challenges; they're the very battles we face in our modern spiritual journeys.
What makes this teaching particularly powerful is McMahan's revelation about God's timing. Israel wasn't wrong to want a king – God had actually promised them one through David's lineage, which was already being established. Their failure was in rushing ahead of divine timing, settling for Saul instead of waiting for God's perfect kairos moment to raise up David. "When God orchestrates things and sets things into His place, into His timing, He has set the provision for the vision," McMahan explains, offering hope to listeners navigating their own seasons of waiting.
The message culminates in a liberating truth: believers don't need earthly authorities to rule over them because they already have access to the greatest King – Jesus Christ. By keeping our eyes fixed on Him rather than coveting what others have, we position ourselves to overcome every spiritual battle with divine assistance.
Have you been rushing ahead of God's timing or comparing yourself to others? This episode might be exactly what you need to realign with divine purpose. Reach out to us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com with your thoughts and questions as you apply these timeless principles to your spiritual walk.
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The journey from brokenness to purpose unfolds dramatically in this heart-stirring conversation with Trevor McMahan, who shares how Christ transformed him from a homeless drug addict to a devoted family man with a burning passion for God's Word.
Trevor takes us deep into 1 Samuel 8, revealing a profound parallel between Samuel and Eli—two men who failed their families despite their spiritual prominence. The sobering truth emerges that Samuel, having witnessed the devastating consequences of Eli's parental neglect, tragically repeated the same mistake with his own sons. This powerful insight challenges us to examine where our priorities truly lie. Are we so consumed with work, ministry, or personal pursuits that we're neglecting our most sacred calling?
Drawing from Genesis 18:17-19, Trevor unpacks why God chose Abraham—because he would teach his children justice and righteousness, the very foundation of God's throne. With remarkable clarity, he connects the justice rendered through Christ's sacrifice to our responsibility as parents and believers. His own family practice of creating a "family altar" offers practical wisdom for those seeking to establish God's presence in their homes. By gathering weekly for worship, recording prayer requests, and celebrating answered prayers, even his youngest children have developed unshakable confidence that God hears and responds.
Perhaps most compelling is Trevor's fresh perspective on Proverbs 22:6. More than general religious instruction, he encourages parents to seek divine revelation about each child's unique purpose and calling. "Before God ever fashioned you in your mother's womb, He sat down and wrote a book about you," Trevor reminds us, challenging listeners to partner with God in discovering and nurturing their children's divine design. What might change in your family if you began actively seeking God's blueprint for each child's life? Join this transformative conversation and discover how to break generational patterns while establishing a legacy of faith that will endure for generations.
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Have you ever wondered what happens when God's glory collides with careless curiosity? Or why spiritual breakthroughs often trigger immediate opposition? This compelling journey through 1 Samuel 6-7 unveils ancient patterns that still define our spiritual lives today.
The narrative begins with a remarkable scene: the Ark of the Covenant, captured by the Philistines, makes its way back to Israel on an ox cart, coming to rest in "the field of Joshua" beside a large rock. These aren't random details but profound symbolism pointing to Christ as our foundation. Yet celebration quickly turns to mourning when seventy men die after looking inside the Ark—a stark reminder that approaching holy things demands reverence, not casual curiosity.
Then comes perhaps the most haunting line of the passage: "It was a long time, twenty years in all, that the ark remained at Kiriath Jearim." Twenty years of spiritual stagnation summarized in a single sentence. How many of us live in similar prolonged spiritual droughts? Samuel's solution cuts to the heart: "If you are returning to the Lord with all your hearts, rid yourself of foreign gods." His call for complete repentance—eliminating competing loyalties and idols—created the perfect conditions for divine intervention. When Israel confessed and offered sacrifice, God thundered from heaven against their enemies.
This ancient story reveals a timeless pattern: genuine repentance positions us for supernatural breakthrough. What idols might be preventing God's thunder in your life? What would change if you returned to Him with your whole heart? The glory that defeated Israel's enemies is still available today for those willing to abandon lesser gods and embrace the power of authentic faith in the One, True, God!
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Are you holding onto something inferior simply because it's familiar? The story of the Philistines and the Ark of the Covenant reveals our human tendency to seek workarounds rather than embrace transformation.
When the Philistines captured the Ark of the Covenant, they placed it as a trophy in their god Dagon's temple. But God wouldn't share His glory with demons. The statue of Dagon mysteriously toppled, and plagues of tumors and rats struck the Philistines' land. After seven months, desperate for relief, they crafted golden tumors and rats as offerings rather than changing their ways. This ancient account mirrors our modern resistance to surrendering control to God.
The Philistines' fertility cult culture prioritized sexual prowess and agricultural abundance—precisely what God's judgment targeted. This reveals a profound truth: "The same sun that melts butter hardens clay." God's presence brings liberty to those who receive it but has a hardening effect on those who reject it. We often cling to harmful patterns out of pride or familiarity, trying to appease God through religious acts rather than relationship.
Jesus stands at the center of God's invitation to transformation. He offers not religion but relationship—not appeasement but freedom. He took our guilt, fear, and shame upon Himself at the cross so we could experience the newness of life. What God offers is infinitely greater than what we possess, though it costs us the illusion of self-determination.
Ready to exchange inferior ways for God's best? Stop making "golden tumors" and embrace the life-changing relationship Jesus offers. Connect with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com to continue the conversation.
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Have you ever felt like God was absent in your darkest moments? The ancient story of the Ark of the Covenant's capture reveals a powerful truth that transforms how we view seemingly hopeless situations.
When Israel's most sacred object was seized by their enemies, it appeared to be a devastating defeat. But behind the visible circumstances, an invisible battle was unfolding. As we explore 1 Samuel 5, we discover what happens when the symbol of God's presence enters enemy territory. The Philistines proudly displayed their trophy in their god Dagon's temple, but woke to find their massive stone idol mysteriously toppled, face-down before the Ark, its head and hands broken off. Meanwhile, painful afflictions spread through their cities wherever the Ark traveled.
This fascinating narrative illustrates how God works in dimensions beyond our sight. Just as gravity remains invisible yet undeniably powerful, spiritual realities operate around us constantly. The story foreshadows Jesus himself, who would later appear defeated in death only to rise victorious, making a public spectacle of the enemy's presumed triumph.
What appears as defeat on the surface often masks God's greater purposes. When circumstances seem to contradict God's promises, remember that multiple dimensions are at play. The Philistines had an opportunity to recognize the true God's power and repent, but instead tried to distance themselves from His presence – a mistake we often repeat when confronted with truth that challenges our comfortable idols.
Where in your life might God be working in ways you cannot yet see? Join us as we unpack this remarkable story and discover how to recognize God's hidden hand in our most challenging circumstances. Connect with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com to share your thoughts or questions!
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The tension between individualism and true Christian community lies at the heart of our spiritual journey. While society champions personal rights and self-focus—particularly in American culture—the divine invitation calls us toward something profoundly different: a Christ-centered existence that naturally flows outward in genuine care for others.
When Jesus occupies the central position in our lives, everything else finds its proper place. This isn't merely a nice spiritual concept but the fundamental design for human flourishing. Through His Spirit, Christ accomplishes what we could never achieve on our own—transformation that reaches beyond ourselves into authentic community. Rather than settling for surface-level interactions, we're challenged to engage meaningfully with each other's spiritual journeys without awkward disclaimers or nervous qualifications that often reveal our discomfort with genuine connection.
The perfect model for this community already exists in the Trinity—Father, Son, and Spirit existing in perfect harmony, "absolutely committed to one another, equal in value, differing in function." As we navigate this current season of growing spiritual awareness and momentum, we face twin dangers that threaten authentic community: apathy and self-centeredness. The path forward requires placing God at the center and, from that foundation, demonstrating true love and unity with one another. Join us as we explore how to resist cultural individualism and embrace the transformative power of Christ-centered community. Have questions or thoughts? Connect with us at Life Around the Fire—we'd love to hear from you.
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The consequences of our actions echo through generations—nowhere is this more evident than in the sobering account from 1 Samuel 4 explored in this episode. When Israel treated the Ark of God as a magical talisman rather than a holy vessel, they faced devastating defeat at the hands of the Philistines.
This fascinating journey through ancient Israel reveals what happens when God's people embrace privilege without responsibility. The story unfolds dramatically—30,000 Israelite soldiers slain, the Ark of God captured, and the deaths of Eli and his corrupt sons. Perhaps most poignant is the birth of a child named Ichabod ("the glory has departed") as his mother dies in childbirth, overwhelmed by the national catastrophe. This name captures the spiritual reality: God's protective presence had withdrawn from a people who had turned their backs on Him.
The narrative provides powerful lessons on leadership through Eli's tragic example. Despite his position as high priest, he failed to discipline his corrupt sons who abused their sacred office. As we discuss, "What we do in moderation, our children will do in excess." This serves as a stark reminder that leadership positions—especially spiritual ones—carry greater responsibility and accountability. True leadership in God's kingdom isn't a vocation to satisfy our ego; it's a divine calling requiring faithful stewardship.
These stories from Scripture aren't merely historical accounts—they're multifaceted revelations containing wisdom for today. The hand of God doesn't withdraw suddenly but "lifts off ever so slowly," giving opportunities for repentance before consequences arrive. We invite you to dive deeper into these ancient yet timeless narratives and discover what God wants to unveil to you personally through them. Connect with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com to continue the conversation.
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Stories have power. The biblical narratives found in 1 Samuel aren't merely historical accounts—they're divine revelations that speak across millennia directly into our lives today. These ancient tales reveal not just what happened, but what happens in every generation when we either embrace or reject God's wisdom.
Samuel's story begins with miraculous birth and unfolds against a backdrop of dysfunction. Raised first in a polygamous household with inherent tensions, then handed over to serve in a temple overseen by a weak high priest and his corrupt sons, Samuel's journey demonstrates how God works through imperfect circumstances. Despite this challenging environment, Samuel became one of Israel's greatest prophets because "God hears" (the very meaning of his name).
Chapter 4 marks a pivotal moment when Israel faces devastating military defeat. After losing 4,000 soldiers to the Philistines, the elders make a fatal error—treating the Ark of the Covenant as a good-luck charm rather than respecting it as the symbol of God's presence. The result? A catastrophic loss of 30,000 more soldiers, the capture of the Ark, and the fulfillment of prophecy through the deaths of Eli's corrupt sons. All because a father "failed to restrain" his children from dishonoring God.
This painful lesson echoes through the centuries: when we fail to train our children properly, we risk creating entitled individuals who reject authority and responsibility. "If we fail to train our children, we will become their slaves." The balance between responsibility and privilege must be carefully maintained—too much responsibility without privilege breeds resentment, while too much privilege without responsibility cultivates entitlement.
The good news? We can break destructive cycles. God has equipped us through His Spirit to raise children who become spiritual giants. Our goal should be to serve as "catapults, not anchors," launching the next generation further than we've gone. Every parent has the opportunity to establish a higher starting platform for their children in matters of faith and character.
Are you raising entitled children or empowered ones? Are you a leader whose personal life strengthens or undermines your public influence? Let's learn from Eli's mistakes and embrace God's design for family and leadership. Email us at LifeAroundTheFire@gmail.com to continue the conversation about raising a generation that will go further than we ever dreamed possible.
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When life's dysfunction threatens to overwhelm us, we need the powerful reminder that God is greater. This deeply personal message explores how our heavenly Father exceeds any brokenness we face, whether in mental health struggles, addictions, family trauma, or relational difficulties.
Through the remarkable story of Samuel, we witness divine intervention in profoundly dysfunctional circumstances. Born to Hannah in a tension-filled polygamous household, then handed at age three to an elderly priest whose sons were stealing offerings and engaging in sexual immorality, Samuel's upbringing was far from ideal. Yet God spoke directly to this young boy, calling him to become one of Israel's greatest prophets and judges despite his surroundings. The powerful lesson? Your dysfunction is not bigger than God.
The host vulnerably shares his own journey of creating dysfunction through wounded bitterness that led to unbelief, immorality, and substance abuse. His testimony reveals how these choices impacted his family—particularly his sons—with tragic consequences. Yet even in this deeply painful story, God's redemptive power shines through. "He has forgiven me much and because of that he's placed his love in my heart and I can now love much."
This message offers genuine hope for anyone trapped in dysfunction or suffering its consequences. God doesn't just rescue us from difficult situations—He transforms them into platforms for ministry to others experiencing similar struggles. The journey through brokenness becomes preparation for purpose. Most importantly, relationship with God brings freedom from guilt, fear and shame that no circumstance can diminish. Your greatest wounds may become your greatest ministry. What dysfunction are you ready to overcome?
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Have you ever wondered if God still speaks today? Samuel's story reveals how divine calling works even in the most dysfunctional environments.
Samuel's very name—meaning "God hears"—carries profound significance. While we often encounter people who barely listen to us, God genuinely attends to our prayers with perfect understanding. But in this exploration of 1 Samuel 3, we discover something equally important: how we can learn to hear God's voice in return.
Young Samuel served in the temple during a spiritually barren time when "the word of the Lord was rare." Three times he mistook God's voice for Eli's, running to the aging priest before finally learning to respond with the transformative words, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening." What makes this encounter remarkable is its context—Eli's household was riddled with corruption. His sons abused their priestly positions as thieves, gluttons, and sexual deviants, while Eli failed to discipline them properly. Yet God bypassed this dysfunction to speak directly to Samuel, who would become one of Israel's greatest prophets.
This narrative offers profound hope for anyone who has experienced family dysfunction or difficult circumstances. God doesn't excuse negative environments, but He isn't limited by them either. Samuel's journey from confusion to clarity demonstrates that discerning God's voice is a learned skill that develops through relationship. Even if you've never clearly heard God speak, this story invites you to position yourself where His presence dwells and adopt a posture of receptivity that could change everything.
Whether you're struggling with your past, questioning your calling, or simply wanting to deepen your spiritual connection, Samuel's story reminds us that God can speak powerfully through imperfect circumstances. Listen to discover how you might recognize the divine whisper that's been calling your name all along. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement that God is bigger than their broken beginnings.
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Have you ever found yourself treating sacred things a little too casually? The story of Eli from 1 Samuel 2 delivers a powerful wake-up call about the dangers of spiritual complacency and the consequences that follow when we honor others above God.
This episode dives deep into the prophecy delivered to Eli by an unnamed "man of God" – a stern warning about how the high priest had failed in his sacred duties by allowing his sons to abuse their positions and by personally benefiting from the offerings meant for God. The text reveals that Eli had grown physically fat from these offerings, a powerful symbol of his spiritual complacency. God's message is clear and direct: "Those who honor me I will honor, but those who despise me will be disdained."
The consequences outlined in this prophecy are severe – Eli's family line would be cut short, with no old men in future generations, and his sons would die on the same day as a sign of divine judgment. This ancient story speaks directly to modern believers about the danger of over-familiarity breeding contempt in our spiritual lives. When we become too comfortable with sacred responsibilities, we risk crossing boundaries that carry significant consequences.
One of the most profound insights comes from the nameless prophet himself – a reminder that authentic ministry isn't about building personal platforms or recognition. As we explore this challenging passage, we're invited to examine our own hearts: Are we treating God's things with proper reverence? Are we honoring human relationships above divine commands? Where have we become too cavalier about sacred responsibilities? Join us as we wrestle with these questions and discover how this ancient warning speaks with fresh relevance to believers today. Email us your thoughts at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com or visit our website to continue the conversation.
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What would it feel like to live in a world completely free from evil? Jesus offers us precisely this—a kingdom characterized by the total absence of evil and filled instead with righteousness, peace, and joy. This reality stands in stark contrast to the corrupt priesthood we encounter in 1 Samuel 2.
As we explore the story of Eli and his wicked sons, we discover a sobering picture of religious leadership gone wrong. These priests exploited their sacred positions for personal gain, treating holy offerings with contempt and creating a spiritually oppressive atmosphere. Their self-serving approach reveals what happens when leaders forget their true calling to serve rather than be served.
Yet even in this corrupt environment, young Samuel was being raised—a powerful reminder that God's Word remains pure even when delivered through spiritually compromised vessels. Like seed that stays clean despite contact with death, divine truth maintains its potency regardless of who delivers it.
The contrast couldn't be more striking: while Eli's sons schemed for personal advantage, Jesus demonstrated true leadership by washing his disciples' feet. One approach creates division and heaviness; the other fosters an atmosphere where love can flourish freely. This difference matters profoundly in our churches and communities today.
For those in leadership positions, this serves as a sobering warning against exploitation and self-interest. For those under corrupt spiritual authority, it raises important questions about when to confront, when to remain quietly faithful, and when departure might become necessary. Whatever your situation, remember that we're all called to citizenship in a kingdom where evil has no place—and living as representatives of that reality changes everything around us.
Join us in exploring how to create atmospheres free from evil that attract others through authentic love. Your journey toward holy living doesn't depend on perfect circumstances but on connection to a perfect God.
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The waiting periods of our lives often feel endless, but Hannah's story reveals the profound purpose hidden within these seasons. For years, Hannah endured the pain of barrenness while facing cruel taunts from her husband's other wife who had many children. Her worth seemed diminished in a culture that valued women primarily for childbearing, yet this extended season of waiting was preparing the way for something extraordinary.
When God finally answered Hannah's fervent prayers, she bore Samuel—not just any son, but one of Israel's greatest prophets who would later anoint David as king, establishing the lineage through which Jesus would eventually come. What appeared as barren ground became the fertile soil from which God's redemptive plan would advance.
Hannah's powerful prayer recorded in 1 Samuel 2 provides a striking revelation about God's character. "Those who are full hire themselves out for food, but those who are hungry hunger no more. She who is barren has born seven children, but she who has had many sons pines away." Her words proclaim God as the great reverser of circumstances—the one who fundamentally transforms situations, raising the poor to sit with princes and exalting the humble while bringing down the proud.
This transformation isn't limited to Hannah's ancient story. The same God who opened her womb offers spiritual rebirth to us today. We are designed to host His glory, to carry His divine life within us, becoming citizens of His kingdom when we simply believe. Just as Samuel's life foreshadowed Christ, our lives can reflect Jesus to a world desperate for genuine hope.
Whatever barren situation you're facing today—whether relational, financial, spiritual, or emotional—remember that with God, nothing remains permanently barren. Your current waiting period might be the very preparation ground for something far greater than you can imagine. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement during their season of waiting, and subscribe to receive more insights from God's transformative word.
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What does it mean to truly give everything to God? Hannah's profound story of faith, patience, and sacrifice reveals timeless truths about divine timing and intimate relationship with our Creator.
The seemingly empty waiting periods of our lives often precede our greatest purpose. Hannah endured years of barrenness while watching her husband's second wife bear multiple children. Yet her single son Samuel would eventually impact an entire nation as prophet, judge, and kingmaker. While Peninnah's children served their immediate family, Hannah's son served generations.
This powerful narrative illuminates how God operates outside our limited timeline. Reading 1 Samuel takes merely hours, yet encompasses a century of history. Similarly, what feels like endless waiting to us may be God's perfect preparation. Hannah's answered prayer came through intimacy, not mechanical religious obligation, highlighting God's desire for relationship rather than transaction.
Perhaps most remarkable is Hannah's faithfulness to her vow. After finally receiving her heart's desire, she could have clung to Samuel, using him to validate her worth in a culture that stigmatized barrenness. Instead, she honored her promise, giving him to serve in the temple—even though that religious system had become corrupted under Eli and his sons. She entrusted Samuel to God, not merely to an institution.
The text reveals that even as a young child, Samuel "worshiped the Lord there," testifying to Hannah's profound spiritual influence during his formative years. This reminds us of the sacred calling of mothers and maternal figures who shape children's spiritual foundations through nurture, love, and example.
Ultimately, this story challenges us to examine our own hearts. Is our faith transactional or relational? Are we giving God everything or merely performing religious duties? As one listener observed: "All God wants is everything—that's all." True worship means complete surrender born from intimate relationship. Samuel's life demonstrates this perfectly: conceived in intimacy, raised in love, and dedicated in faithfulness.
What might God be preparing in your waiting season? What promises have you made that need fulfilling? Where is He calling you to deeper intimacy and complete surrender?
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Ever felt like you're praying without results while others mock your struggles? Hannah's story from 1 Samuel reveals profound truth about those seasons when nothing seems to happen despite our deepest prayers.
The journey begins with Hannah, a woman desperately longing for a child while enduring cruel taunts from her husband's other wife who had many children. Year after year, Hannah's prayers seemed to go unanswered, leading to such deep grief she couldn't eat. Yet this apparent divine silence wasn't rejection—it was preparation for something extraordinary.
What makes this narrative particularly significant is that Hannah's husband Elkanah came from a priestly lineage responsible for physically carrying the Ark of the Covenant—a 400-pound gold-covered chest representing God's glory. This teaches us something profound: there are no shortcuts to carrying spiritual weight. When Hannah finally poured out her soul at the temple, her prayers were so intense that Eli the priest mistook her for being drunk. Our deepest intercessions often appear strange to others because they transcend conventional expression.
Hannah's breakthrough wasn't just about having a child—it was about birthing Samuel, the prophet who would transform Israel during a critical transition period. The timing had to be perfect, and the depth of her intercession matched the significance of what God would accomplish through her son. Your current barren season may feel endless, but it might be preparing you to birth something of remarkable significance. The question isn't whether God hears you, but whether you can trust His perfect timing while carrying the weight of His glory through the waiting.
Looking for more spiritual insights? Visit lifeonthefire.com or email your thoughts to lifeonthefire@gmail.com. We'd love to hear how Hannah's story connects with your journey.
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Editor's note The time span for the material in 1 Samuel is closer to 100 years. In the podcast 150 years was used as a time marker. That would entail both 1 and 2 Samuel. Woopsi... LoL ... but we caught it before you did... LoL.
Stories have power. They captivate our imagination, preserve our history, and shape our understanding in ways nothing else can. In this deep dive into the book of 1 Samuel, we explore the rich tapestry of narratives that chronicle Israel's pivotal transition from being governed by prophets and judges to being ruled by kings.
What prompted Israel to demand a king "like the other nations"? And how did God use this seemingly misguided desire to unfold His perfect plan through history? The establishment of David's kingdom wasn't just a historical footnote—it laid the groundwork for Jesus Christ, the ultimate King who will one day return to rule on David's throne and bring an end to all evil. We're witnessing the restoration of the tabernacle of David in our time, with God's presence and power manifesting on earth in unprecedented ways as we approach Christ's return.
We also tackle questions about biblical authorship, exploring how 1 Samuel—which spans approximately 100 years—came together through a divinely guided process involving eyewitness accounts, meticulous oral tradition, various written sources, and the Holy Spirit's inspiration. Through personal stories about Finnish storytelling traditions, we see how ancient cultures preserved their histories with remarkable accuracy before committing them to writing. The collaborative nature of Scripture's development doesn't diminish its authority—rather, it demonstrates God's sovereign hand working through human processes to reveal Jesus, the scarlet thread woven throughout all biblical narrative.
Whether you're a longtime Bible reader or just beginning to explore Scripture, this episode will deepen your appreciation for how God preserves His truth and reveals His Son through stories that have endured for millennia. Join us around the fire as we discover Jesus in the pages of 1 Samuel and prepare our hearts for His coming kingdom. Have questions or thoughts? Connect with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com.
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The pendulum between Lion and Lamb imagery has swung dramatically throughout church history, with profound implications for our spiritual lives. Tracy opens up about a revelation that challenged his own approach to spiritual authority, sharing how the early church primarily identified with Christ as the sacrificial Lamb rather than the conquering Lion.
This conversation delves into how our cultural preferences have shaped Christian spirituality, often gravitating toward power, conquest, and warfare language while undervaluing surrender, gentleness, and vulnerability. Tracy and David reflect on their own experiences in the charismatic movement, recalling the profound spiritual encounters they had with the "Father's heart" movement in the mid-1980s—experiences characterized not by forceful declarations but by gentle, tender intimacy that carried extraordinary power.
The most profound insight emerges through their discussion of Paul's thorn in the flesh. Rather than seeing obstacles as things to overcome through aggressive spiritual warfare, they suggest a more transformative approach: understanding that God's grace—His effectual power—works most perfectly when we surrender our striving. For those facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, the message is liberating: your breakthrough may come not through fighting harder but through surrendering deeper.
This episode offers a timely correction to imbalanced spirituality, inviting listeners to rediscover the mysticism of the early church where relationship trumped religious performance. As Tracy concludes with a powerful prayer, he reminds us that "fire falls on the sacrifice, not on the altar"—a fitting metaphor for a spirituality where our surrendered lives become the conduit for God's most powerful work. Ready to experience the authority that comes through intimacy? This conversation might just transform your approach to spiritual challenges.
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What happens when our worship emphasizes the conquering Lion but neglects the sacrificial Lamb? Tracy Perez joins us to share a profound vision that challenged his understanding of Christology and worship practice.
The conversation begins with Tracy describing an extraordinary spiritual experience where he witnessed three snarling wolves attempting to break through ancient wooden doors, while inside stood a blood-covered lamb that would ultimately destroy them. This vision launched him into a deeper exploration of how we've potentially created an unbalanced view of Christ in contemporary worship culture.
Through scriptural examination, Tracy points out that the "Lion of the Tribe of Judah" appears only once in Scripture—in Revelation 5—where interestingly, the Lion immediately reveals the Lamb who was slain. Meanwhile, lamb imagery permeates the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. He shares fascinating historical research showing how the early church emphasized sacrificial lamb imagery for its first three centuries, with the lion imagery only becoming dominant during the age of Constantine and later during the Crusades.
The discussion delves into how music and art shape theology, challenging listeners to consider whether our worship practices reflect a balanced understanding of Christ's nature. Tracy vulnerably shares how this revelation required personal repentance and a shift in his own thinking, despite his deep roots in the worship movement. His powerful statement—"If the roaring lion doesn't reveal the lamb, we may be revealing the wrong lion"—offers a thought-provoking challenge to worship leaders, pastors, and believers everywhere.
Whether you're involved in worship ministry or simply seeking a deeper understanding of Christ's nature, this conversation will challenge you to reconsider how we perceive and present Jesus in our contemporary Christian experience. Join us for this reverent yet revolutionary conversation about restoring balance to our Christology.
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Something significant is on the horizon. Before returning to our 1 Samuel study, I'm making an unusual request that speaks to the gravity of what's coming. Tracy Perez will soon deliver what I genuinely believe is a powerful, prophetic word with international implications—a message that spans continents and carries divine weight.
This isn't just another guest speaker or teaching. We're witnessing the beginning of a sovereign move of God unfolding in unprecedented ways. But here's the reality we face: powerful revelations encounter spiritual resistance. Malevolent forces actively work to hinder messages like these from reaching their full potential. That's where you—our global listening family spanning 1,300 cities across 109 nations—come in.
Your prayers create pathways for divine revelation. When we pray, we're not just performing a religious exercise; we're engaging in spiritual warfare that establishes conditions for God's kingdom to manifest "on earth as it is in heaven." Many breakthroughs remain dormant until people commit to pray them through. As we stand together—whether you're listening from Singapore, Kenya, Canada, Europe, or anywhere between—we're creating spiritual infrastructure that supports this message breaking through boundaries.
I'm asking you to pray specifically for clarity and anointing, for angelic assistance in spiritual warfare, and for hearts to be prepared to receive this word. Together, we're paving the way for revelation that brings not just information but transformation. Join us in this kingdom endeavor and watch what happens when we unite our faith across geographical boundaries for a purpose greater than ourselves. Reach out anytime at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com or visit our website to connect further with our community.
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Dive into the ancient wisdom of 1 Samuel as we unpack the remarkable journey of David, Israel's greatest king before Christ. What makes this shepherd boy's story so compelling isn't just his victory over Goliath, but how he navigated the treacherous waters of jealousy and opposition from King Saul.
The heart of this exploration centers on a profound revelation: having God's favor doesn't guarantee an easy path. Despite being anointed by God himself, David faced deadly persecution from the religious establishment. His story dismantles the modern misconception that faith should shield us from hardship. Sometimes our greatest challenges come precisely because God's hand is on our lives, not because we've done something wrong.
David's secret weapon wasn't physical strength or strategic brilliance—it was his unwavering heart for God. While Saul sought public approval and self-preservation, David remained fixed on pleasing the Lord. This fundamental difference in heart orientation made all the difference. Even when religious jealousy threatened to derail his calling, David kept his focus upward, seeing his circumstances from heaven's perspective rather than being consumed by earthly drama.
For anyone facing opposition while pursuing their God-given purpose, David's example offers powerful encouragement. Keep pressing forward with consistency and persistence. Don't become entangled in the swirl of criticism or sabotage. Remember that seasons change—what feels permanent today will eventually give way to new realities. Your responsibility is simply to remain faithful, knowing that your identity as God's beloved is secure regardless of current circumstances.
What opposition are you facing in your spiritual journey? How might seeing it from God's perspective change your response? Share your thoughts with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com or visit our website to explore more biblical wisdom for contemporary challenges.
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Ever found yourself wide awake at 4:30 AM, mind racing with problems that seem unsolvable? That's exactly where I found myself recently—depressed, worried, and unable to find rest as my thoughts spiraled around a situation that felt increasingly hopeless.
What happened next changed everything. Rather than continuing to toss and turn, I got up and had a heart-to-heart conversation with God. Not a formal prayer, but an honest relationship moment where I simply admitted, "I am depressed and I just really need your help." His response was immediate and transformative: "You're looking at the wrong thing."
This episode explores the powerful shift that happens when we lift our gaze from immediate problems to a higher perspective. I share how God invited me to think on things that are "above"—pure, lovely, and truly worthwhile—not to ignore my concerns, but to place them in proper context. We discuss the profound difference between trying to control circumstances through our own efforts (which leads to a form of spiritual bondage) versus operating from being "seated with Christ in heavenly places."
The liberation that comes from this perspective shift is real and immediate. Depression lifts, clarity emerges, and we begin to see beyond our narrow focus to the broader purposes God has for us. If you're struggling with overwhelming thoughts, feeling stuck in negative patterns, or simply needing a fresh outlook on difficult circumstances, this message offers practical spiritual wisdom for rising above and allowing God's glory to transform your situation from the inside out.
Reach out to us at liferonthefire@gmail.com with your thoughts, questions, or to share how this message impacted you. We'd love to hear your story of perspective transformation!
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What happens when your feelings and God's commands seem to pull you in opposite directions?
The wild horses of our emotions—sometimes beautiful, sometimes destructive—need a steady rider to guide them. Without this guidance, we make decisions we later regret, especially when hungry, angry, lonely, or tired. That's why Jesus' words in John 13-17 offer such profound wisdom: "If you love me, obey my commands."
This seemingly simple statement reveals a profound truth about authentic spirituality. Love and obedience aren't opposing forces but natural companions. When we genuinely love someone, our actions align with what matters to them—not from obligation but from relationship. God's commands to love Him and our neighbors become not burdens but opportunities to express our transformed hearts.
I learned this lesson through my four-year-old son and a hostile neighbor. Despite my careful attempts at friendship, this woman across the street responded only with contempt. Then my young son, innocent and unaware of adult complexities, simply walked over and started a conversation. His childlike approach melted her defenses instantly. Sometimes the most profound spiritual truths are demonstrated through the simplest actions.
The beautiful paradox is that while we don't base our decisions solely on feelings, our obedience ultimately transforms our emotional landscape. As we live aligned with God's commands, empowered by His Spirit rather than our limited abilities, our feelings begin to follow. We experience the joy, peace and love that come not from chasing emotions but from walking in divine truth.
Have you experienced this transformation? How might your relationships change if you approached difficult people with childlike simplicity rather than sophisticated strategies? Join us in exploring how love and obedience create the framework for a truly fulfilling spiritual journey.
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Pressure isn't comfortable, but could it be exactly what we need? This eye-opening exploration reveals the surprising purpose behind life's squeeze.
When pressure comes, our natural response is to fight or withdraw. Yet what if these moments of intense discomfort are actually divine invitations to transformation? Just as a goldsmith uses fire to bring impurities to the surface of precious metal, God's refining presence in our lives often manifests as pressure that reveals what's truly inside us.
The wisdom shared here turns our understanding of difficulty upside down. "When pressure comes, it's not a sign that you've done something wrong. Sometimes it's a sign that you've been doing things right." This perspective shift changes everything. Rather than resisting pressure, we can practice thanksgiving in the midst of it—a response that doesn't necessarily remove the pressure but profoundly changes how we experience it.
Drawing from biblical examples like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego praising God in the fiery furnace, and wisdom from Corrie ten Boom who encouraged believers to "don't wrestle, nestle" when facing trials, this message provides practical guidance for navigating life's pressure points. The ultimate goal isn't comfort but Christlikeness—becoming purified through the very fire we might instinctively avoid.
Ready to transform your relationship with pressure? Listen now and discover how life's most uncomfortable moments might be preparing you for your greatest growth. Then share your experience with us at liferonthefire@gmail.com—we'd love to hear how this message resonates with your journey.
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Presence before programs. This simple but profound truth stands at the heart of genuine relationship with God, yet so often we reverse the order. We frantically build spiritual structures hoping God will eventually show up and bless them, when all along He's been waiting for us to simply sit at His feet.
The Father has gone to extraordinary lengths to remove anything that might separate us from His love. Sin and death, those seemingly insurmountable barriers, were overcome not through brute force but through the paradoxical power of the Lamb's gentleness and sacrifice. This demonstrates a kingdom principle that challenges our conventional thinking: true strength often manifests through meekness, and victory comes through surrender rather than aggression. The Lamb overcame the beast not by mirroring its violence, but by embodying love.
Like Mary who chose the "better part" while Martha busied herself with preparations, we're invited to prioritize divine presence over religious performance. God isn't impressed by our spiritual productivity or ministerial credentials. He's after relationship—genuine communion where His presence and our presence converge. From this intimate connection flows authentic kingdom advancement, not manufactured church growth. When we align with this divine order—seeking His face before launching our initiatives—we discover the wisdom, strength and supernatural ability to participate in what He's already doing rather than asking Him to bless what we've already planned. Have you been building programs hoping God will endorse them, or have you been sitting at His feet, allowing Him to direct your path? The invitation remains open: cast down your crowns, lay aside your agendas, and rediscover the joy of simply being with Him.
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Are you stuck in a cycle of merely existing from day to day? That "same stuff, different day" lifestyle leaves many of us feeling empty and unfulfilled, living for weekends that provide only temporary escape. But there's a profound difference between just getting by and becoming an overcomer.
My own journey transformed when God's Spirit revealed Jesus to me in a powerful way. That divine encounter showed me the weight of my condition and offered genuine forgiveness—not something I manufactured through self-improvement, but a cleansing that came from outside myself. This revelation planted the seed of God's very nature within me, beginning a process of growth that continues today.
The promise in Revelation 2:7 speaks directly to this transformation: "To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat of the tree of life which is in the paradise of God." This promise isn't for those who merely participate in life; it's specifically for overcomers. Through years of ministry across 107 countries and over 1,300 cities worldwide, I've discovered five essential keys that unlock this overcomer lifestyle: diligently pray, faithfully obey, quietly trust, patiently observe, and thankfully worship. In an age where the average adult attention span has dwindled to just 6-8 seconds, these spiritual disciplines become even more crucial.
Forgiveness forms the foundation of this journey—both receiving God's forgiveness and extending it to others. When we embrace these principles, our lives develop a richness and depth that goes beyond existence into purpose. We become part of something that would be doomed to failure unless God is in it. Ready to move beyond just getting by? The overcomer's path awaits.
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The Kingdom of God stands as a reality more profound than religious practice—it's an entirely new realm with its own culture, values, and priorities. This exploration of kingdom living cuts straight to the heart of spiritual maturity: what does it mean to "grow up before we grow old"?
Creation itself is groaning for the maturing of God's people. When we express our maturity in Christ, we don't just show the world who Jesus was historically, but who He is now—seated at the Father's right hand with eyes of flaming fire, preparing to unite heaven and earth. This maturity requires understanding that Jesus didn't come to establish a new religion or polish up our old nature. That old self was nailed to the cross. Instead, He made us entirely new creations and citizens of an eternal kingdom.
The difference between religion and kingdom is critical. Many places bearing Christian names function more like spiritual cemeteries than living sanctuaries. True kingdom living begins with prioritizing God's kingdom above everything else, seeking His righteousness (being absolutely good, absolutely true, and filled with love), and focusing on spiritual matters instead of problems. Kingdom priorities also include rejecting scarcity mindsets to embrace abundant living, fostering unity within authentic community, and becoming kingdom makers who embody these values in daily life.
This spiritual transformation happens progressively as we follow the Holy Spirit's guidance. Though the church appears divided today, God's presence will ultimately bring supernatural unity beyond human efforts. As we align ourselves with kingdom priorities, we fulfill our calling as "peacemakers"—atmosphere changers who advance God's kingdom not through religious activity but through genuine relationship with the King Himself. What would your life look like if you truly sought His kingdom first?
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Trapped between thinking too highly of yourself and not highly enough? You're not alone. This profound spiritual tension affects how we function within God's Kingdom and impacts everyone around us.
The Apostle Paul's instruction to think of ourselves "with sober judgment" (Romans 12:3) provides a crucial navigational tool for believers. When our self-perception becomes inflated, we develop entitled attitudes that use people and love things. Conversely, when we undervalue ourselves, we shirk God-given responsibilities that could benefit others, causing a different kind of harm. Both extremes damage the body of Christ and hinder Kingdom advancement.
Looking at biblical meditation—not as Eastern mysticism but as the purposeful rumination on truth like a cow chewing its cud—helps us develop this balanced self-perception. The Kingdom of God values interdependence, recognizing that visible ministries (like hands) and invisible ones (like hearts) are equally essential. The shipbuilding metaphor illustrates this beautifully: the less-glamorous "helps" ministries function like iron bands holding wooden ships together—without them, the vessel can't float.
Most powerfully, acknowledging our need for others isn't weakness but meekness—strength under control. Like a trained war horse that protects rather than tramples its fallen rider, meekness channels power through submission. As we navigate the spiritual battles of our time (comparable to the bloody period between D-Day and V-E Day in WWII), this balanced self-understanding becomes crucial to our effectiveness in God's advancing Kingdom.
What might change in your relationships and ministry if you embraced this "sober judgment" about yourself? Reach out to us at lifeonthefire@gmail.com—we'd love to hear your thoughts and questions as you process these kingdom principles.
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Editor's note: David gave a Scripture referrence in point #4 concerning "Patience & Endurance". He said it was found in 1 Corinthians 3:4-8 and it should be 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.... woopsi... hey, at least we caught it... LoL The Kingdom of God stands as the central teaching of Jesus's ministry—a revolutionary concept that transforms how we understand our purpose on Earth. This episode unpacks the profound truth that Earth was created to be a physical demonstration of God's heavenly rule, where His will would be done "on earth as it is in heaven."
What does it mean to live as citizens of God's kingdom? Just as fish swim in water without realizing their environment, we often navigate our daily lives unaware of the cultural frameworks shaping our existence. The kingdom has its own distinct culture with specific values, practices, and priorities that often challenge worldly systems. When we surrender completely to God, we discover we've been empowered to live in ways impossible through human strength alone—as one guest colorfully puts it, "It would be easier for a fish to yodel than for us to live the Christian life without God's power."
We explore four essential kingdom practices: seeking God's will through complete surrender, engaging in service and mission (because "it's easier to steer a moving vehicle than a parked car"), cultivating trust and dependence that invites supernatural provision, and developing patience and endurance that reflect Christ's character. These practices don't just change our behavior—they transform our identity as we become living demonstrations of heaven's reality in everyday situations.
Whether you're a seasoned believer or curious about what kingdom living actually looks like in practice, this episode offers both theological depth and practical wisdom for experiencing the fullness of life Jesus promised. Ready to move beyond mere church attendance to authentic kingdom citizenship? Listen now and discover how your life can become a colony of heaven on Earth.
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Ever wondered what makes the Kingdom of God so different from earthly systems and cultures? This eye-opening exploration dives deep into the core values that define God's Kingdom - a kingdom not waiting in some distant future, but active and available right now.
At the heart of Kingdom culture lies love - not as a fleeting emotion but as the highest value that Jesus himself emphasized when asked about the greatest commandment. This foundation supports other vital Kingdom values: humility that leads to true service, righteousness and justice that reflect God's throne, and the faith that makes everything else possible. When we grasp these values, we begin to see how radically they challenge our modern cultural assumptions.
What would your life look like if you fully embraced forgiveness and reconciliation as daily practices? How might you become what Jesus called a "peacemaker" - someone who literally changes atmospheres from chaos to calm? The Kingdom offers a quality of joy unrelated to circumstances, integrity that frees us from deception's web, and a peace that transforms environments. These aren't just nice religious concepts but practical, powerful realities that can revolutionize how we live.
The most remarkable aspect of Kingdom culture isn't that it's complicated - it's that it's accessible. As we follow Jesus, we naturally begin embodying these values, not through striving but through his life working through us. This isn't about religious rule-following but about a living relationship that transforms us from the inside out.
Ready to experience more of God's Kingdom in your daily life? This episode is your invitation to move beyond merely hearing about God to actually knowing Him and seeing His Kingdom manifest through your life. Connect with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com and join the conversation about bringing Kingdom values into every corner of our world.
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Have you ever considered what makes the Bible truly different from any other book? Beyond just sacred text, it stands as a unique collection of 66 books written across centuries that somehow speaks with remarkable relevance to our modern lives.
This episode dives deep into the transformative message of 2 Peter 1:3-11, where we discover the pathway to spiritual maturity outlined by one of Jesus' closest disciples. Peter, writing to severely persecuted believers, offers timeless wisdom about growing in faith before we grow old. His prescription for spiritual growth remains as powerful today as when first penned 2,000 years ago.
At the heart of Peter's message, we uncover two essential Kingdom qualities that function as keys not only to spiritual maturity but to success in every area of life: persistence and consistency. Like plowing a field before planting, these virtues aren't glamorous, but they're absolutely necessary for harvest. We explore how persistence carries us through seasons without visible results and how consistency in character reflects God's own nature.
Whether you're building a business, leading in ministry, raising a family, or simply trying to grow in your faith journey, these twin principles unlock doors that talent alone cannot open. You don't need to be the most brilliant or gifted person—persistent, consistent effort will ultimately outperform sporadic excellence.
Ready to discover how ancient wisdom can transform your modern life? Join us as we unpack practical insights that will encourage you to keep going when you're tempted to quit, right before your breakthrough might come. Subscribe now and let's grow together in faith and purpose!
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Standing at the intersection of prophecy and fulfillment, we're witnessing a divine unfolding unlike anything previously experienced. The revelation of God's presence across nations isn't some distant promise—it's happening right now, and your active participation matters more than you might realize.
Prophetic voices throughout history have glimpsed what we're now experiencing, though they often misjudged the timing. It's like driving 100mph wearing binoculars—everything seems closer than it actually is. The beautiful reality? Those weren't false prophecies; they were early glimpses into God's masterful plan that required patience to fully manifest. Now we're seeing their fulfillment in real-time.
This spiritual season demands a critical balance between power and responsibility. When power lacks accountability, abuse follows—we've seen this play out disastrously across institutions worldwide. God models perfect balance, wielding ultimate authority with perfect wisdom and grace. As His presence intensifies, He's teaching us this same equilibrium—how to steward spiritual authority responsibly.
The Western tendency toward individualism poses a particular challenge in this season. We too easily justify personal agendas by claiming "God told me," without submitting to community discernment. True spiritual maturity means finding your specific lane in God's plan while remaining accountable to others. Like a master artist working from background to foreground, God's redemptive plan was established before creation itself. The picture grows clearer not because God is improvising but because we're approaching the foreground of His eternal masterpiece.
Ready to discover your strategic role in this divine unfolding? Connect with us at lifearoundthefire.com or email lifearoundthefire@gmail.com. Your part in this story matters more than you know.
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Jesus' seven last statements on the cross reveal a profound depth of love and purpose that transcends the horrific torture he endured. Spoken from a place of unimaginable physical agony—after being falsely accused, mercilessly beaten with rods, whipped nearly to death, and hung on a Roman torture device—these words carry extraordinary weight precisely because of where and how they were uttered.
The final statement, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit," showcases a trust and surrender that defies human logic. After declaring "It is finished," ***Jesus placed his very being into the safest (yet physically unseen) hands possible—those of his Heavenly Father. This profound act of trust followed his temporary experience of separation when he took on humanity's sin, making his return to unity with the Father all the more significant.
Many struggle with the concept of "Father" because of painful earthly experiences. Fathers who abandoned, abused, or failed their children have created distorted images of fatherhood that affect how we relate to God. Jesus came specifically to demonstrate who the Father truly is—not harsh, angry or difficult to please, but loving, protective and good. When Philip asked to see the Father, Jesus responded with surprise: "Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father." Their relationship was so intimate that, as Jesus described, "you couldn't really see where one stopped and the other started."
The security Jesus felt in committing his spirit to the Father is the same security he offers us. We live between D-Day (Christ's victory on the cross) and V-E Day (the final consummation of all things), and though battles continue, the ultimate victory is secure. Jesus invites us to come home to the Father, to break free from misconceptions about God that have kept us distant, and to find our true security in the Father's hands.***
Ready to experience the security that comes from relationship with your heavenly Father? Join us as we explore how Jesus' final words can transform your understanding of God and invite you into a deeper connection with the One who calls you home.
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What exactly did Jesus mean when He declared "It is finished" from the cross? This powerful statement—Tetelestai in Greek—wasn't merely announcing the end of His suffering, but proclaiming the complete fulfillment of His redemptive mission and the establishment of a revolutionary new covenant.
Explore how Jesus, though fully God, chose to experience human life completely dependent on the Holy Spirit, modeling for us the supernatural self-control that's available to every believer. Even in the midst of excruciating torture and mockery, Christ maintained perfect control of His thoughts and words—not through His divine nature, but through the same Holy Spirit power available to us today.
The declaration "Tetelestai" carried significant meaning in its historical context. Used in ancient times to mark business documents as "paid in full," Jesus was announcing that our debt of sin had been completely satisfied—past, present, and future. This wasn't a partial payment or temporary covering, but the complete annihilation of sin's power and penalty in the lives of those who believe.
This transformative truth establishes the foundation for a completely new way of living. Unlike the old covenant based on external laws, the new covenant writes God's law on our hearts, replacing our stony hearts with hearts of flesh. This isn't about trying harder to follow religious rules but experiencing an internal transformation where God's own life empowers us from within.
Are you still trying to please God through your own efforts, or have you embraced the empowering presence of His Spirit? The difference between religion and relationship with Christ is like night and day—one demands continuous striving with uncertain results, while the other offers secure salvation and supernatural empowerment to live as Jesus lived.
To connect with us and continue this conversation, reach out at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com or visit lifearoundthefire on the web. Experience the freedom of knowing your debt is paid in full!
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The mathematical impossibility speaks volumes. Between 300-400 prophetic statements about the Messiah, all fulfilled by one man. The odds? One in a quintillion – a number so vast it transcends comprehension. This statistical miracle forms just one pillar of evidence supporting Jesus' divinity and unique role in human history.
As we continue our exploration of Christ's seven statements from the cross, we arrive at His fifth utterance: "I thirst." Far more than a physical complaint, these two words represent the fulfillment of yet another ancient prophecy from Psalm 69:21. When Roman soldiers offered Jesus a sponge soaked in vinegar, they unwittingly played their part in God's redemptive plan established centuries before.
This seemingly simple statement carries profound theological weight. Jesus thirsted physically, yes – but He also thirsted spiritually as He drank from the cup of God's judgment, a cup He alone could bear. In the weakest possible human condition, Christ defeated the powers of darkness, taking upon Himself the full outpouring of divine wrath meant for humanity. This divine exchange forms the heart of covenant relationship: Jesus taking our brokenness so we could receive His righteousness, accepting rejection so we could experience acceptance.
The implications transform everything. We no longer face God's wrath because Jesus absorbed it completely. He didn't just cover our sins – He obliterated them, casting them "as far as the east is from the west." Through faith in Christ, we become citizens of God's kingdom with access to His authority and power. As we grow in obedience, our faith increases, allowing us to walk in greater spiritual strength and confidence.
Have you fully embraced what Jesus accomplished when He said "I thirst"? Join us as we unpack the extraordinary meaning behind these two simple words and discover how they reveal God's heart to rescue, redeem and restore relationship with you.
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The words of a dying man reveal his true character. When that man is Jesus Christ, those words become a profound testament to divine love and purpose that continues to transform lives two thousand years later.
Hanging on a cross after enduring false accusations, mockery, and brutal torture, Jesus didn't respond with anger or despair. Instead, his seven statements revealed a mind still completely focused on his mission—bringing redemption to humanity. "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" were his first recorded words, demonstrating extraordinary compassion even for those driving nails through his flesh.
This episode explores how Jesus wasn't a victim of circumstance but made a deliberate choice to go to the cross "before creation was ever created." His decision wasn't motivated by some mystical obligation but by pure love—a desire to bridge the separation between humanity and God. We examine how Jesus' words to the thief beside him show salvation requires nothing but recognition of who Jesus is, while his care for Mary reveals the establishment of a new spiritual family transcending blood relations.
Most poignantly, we unpack Jesus' cry of "My God, why have you forsaken me?"—the moment when he who knew perfect communion with the Father experienced our separation, bearing the weight of humanity's sin. This wasn't merely suffering; it was the culmination of a divine strategy to defeat the powers of darkness and create a new reality where we can walk in freedom.
What decisions are shaping your life today? Like Jesus, you're not where you are by accident but through countless choices. His sacrifice invites us into a relationship that transforms our decision-making and empowers us to live with divine purpose. Join us in exploring how the words spoken from the cross continue to create new life and possibility within us today.
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What would you say if you were being tortured to death? Most of us would lash out in anger, complain about the injustice, or simply cry in agony. Yet when Jesus hung on the cross—falsely accused, brutally beaten, and experiencing the most horrific form of execution known to humanity—his words revealed something extraordinary about God's heart.
The statements Jesus made from the cross weren't complaints or accusations, but expressions of care for others. He asked forgiveness for his executioners, promised paradise to a dying thief, and ensured his widowed mother would be cared for after his death. These weren't the words of a defeated victim but of someone accomplishing exactly what he came to do—revealing God's love in the most powerful way imaginable.
This teaching explores how Jesus's pain revealed his true character and demonstrates what genuine relationship with God looks like. Far from creating another religion of sterile rituals and moral platitudes, Jesus died to establish a Kingdom filled with transformative relationships characterized by the same selfless love he displayed on the cross. His divine life now grows within believers, enabling us to care for one another as he cared for us. Whether you're experiencing painful transitions or wondering what makes Christianity different from mere religion, this message offers a compelling glimpse into the heart of God revealed at Calvary. The cross wasn't just about what Jesus did—it was about who he is and who he's inviting us to become.
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Where do you find Jesus? Not where you might expect. The second statement Jesus made from the cross—"Today you will be with me in paradise"—reveals something profound about God's character and kingdom values.
While hanging between two thieves, Jesus demonstrated that He's unashamed to associate with society's outcasts. Rather than seeking the company of the powerful or influential, He chose to spend His final hours with condemned criminals. This reveals the upside-down nature of God's kingdom, where the first become last, the weak are strong, and the poor are rich.
Many of us struggle to enter difficult spaces or connect with those in desperate situations. We worry about what to say or how we'll be perceived. But when born again, we receive new spiritual eyes that see value where the world sees none. Jesus shows that a single soul is worth everything to God—so valuable that if that thief had been the only person who would ever believe, Christ would have endured the cross for him alone.
We're experiencing an unprecedented spiritual awakening across the earth, more than revival—a sovereign demonstration of God that's intensifying. He's calling believers not to comfort but to challenging places: prisons, homeless shelters, areas of exploitation and poverty. Why? Because that's where Jesus already is. If you want to experience His presence and glory, go where others won't go.
The Lord has no problem attracting crowds, but making disciples involves a refining process that makes us moldable for His purposes in uncommon places. His love doesn't overlook anyone, focusing not just on multitudes but on individuals. When we realize we're personally seen by Christ, it's overwhelming. He's setting the record straight about who He is—not through talk but by showing Himself to a world in desperate need.
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"Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." These powerful words from Jesus on the cross reveal a profound truth about our human condition - sin numbs us to reality. We create narratives that normalize harmful behaviors, justifying them with the false belief that "everyone does it." Yet this deception leaves us spiritually insensitive, like leprosy patients who injure themselves without feeling pain.
The crucifixion scene presents a striking picture: religious leaders and Roman soldiers mocking the very One dying for their salvation, completely unaware of what they were doing. This spiritual blindness wasn't random but actively fueled by what scripture metaphorically calls "the bulls of Bashan" - demonic influences that surrounded Jesus at Calvary. Today, similar spiritual forces continue influencing human thinking, making discernment critical for believers.
Jesus offers us more than forgiveness - He provides complete freedom from sin's numbing grip. When He tells us to "go and sin no more," He's not imposing an impossible standard but declaring our liberation from sin's cyclical prison. His sacrifice empowers us to walk in genuine holiness. Additionally, when we practice forgiveness toward others, we break destructive patterns that would otherwise make us resemble the very things we resent. Unforgiveness doesn't punish others; it enslaves us. Through Christ's example and power, we can experience true freedom - not just from punishment for sin, but from sin's dominion in our lives.
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What comes out of your mouth when life hits you hardest?
We all have those moments—busted knuckles on an engine block, an unexpected shock, or devastating news—when our words reveal what's truly inside us. This raw, authentic episode explores the power of our speech during painful transitions by examining the most profound transition in history: Jesus on the cross.
Beginning with a disarmingly honest story about cursing after a repair-gone-wrong, we journey through the process of spiritual transformation that happens in every believer's life. Those moments when our words surprise even ourselves reveal the ongoing sanctification process as God patiently works to purify us from the inside out. Like knuckles against a hot engine, life's challenges expose what's truly within us.
The focal point becomes the seven statements Jesus made while experiencing the ultimate painful transition—crucifixion. From "Father, forgive them" to "It is finished," each utterance reveals a supernatural response to injustice, pain, and abandonment. These weren't just poetic last words; they were demonstrations of the creative power our speech carries, even in our darkest moments. Modern science confirms what Scripture has always taught—our words can literally alter our physical reality down to the DNA level.
Whether you're going through a personal crucible or simply want to harness the transformative power of faith-filled speech, this episode offers practical insight from history's defining moment. Join us as we begin a seven-part journey through Jesus' final words and discover how they can revolutionize your response to life's painful transitions.
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Transitions shape our lives, yet they often leave us feeling disoriented and uncertain. What if I told you that Jesus himself navigated every type of life transition—and did so flawlessly? This revelation might just transform how you view your current season of change.
The Gospel of Luke offers us an extraordinary helicopter view of Jesus' transitional journey, from his humble birth to his glorious resurrection and eventual return. Far from appearing suddenly as a fully-formed Messiah, Jesus experienced the full spectrum of human transitions. Did you know his first blood wasn't shed at the cross but at his circumcision when he was just eight days old? Or that between ages 8-12, he relocated multiple times, understanding firsthand what it means to be "the new kid"? At twelve, he astonished temple scholars with his wisdom, yet honored his parents by returning home rather than demanding recognition.
Most surprising might be the eighteen years Jesus spent as a craftsman—working with his hands as a carpenter and stonemason in the family business—before transitioning into his public ministry at thirty. Think about that: eighteen years of routine daily work before his calling was activated! If you're feeling stuck in a job or wondering if your potential will ever be realized, take heart. Sometimes being "a nobody" allows us to develop the character and skills we'll need for our ultimate purpose. Jesus himself demonstrated that transitions take time, require patience, and often involve seasons where growth happens invisibly, below the surface.
Whether you're facing career changes, relationship shifts, identity evolution, or spiritual growth, Jesus provides not just an example but a companion who understands every step. His life proves that our transitions aren't random detours—they're essential pathways to becoming who we're meant to be. Come explore how Jesus' journey through change can illuminate your own path and transform your perspective on life's inevitable transitions. The gold is just beneath the surface, waiting for you to discover it.
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The church's last forty years have been marked by recurring earthquakes of scandal and moral failure. What began with sex scandals in the Catholic Church and televangelist implosions in the 1980s has continued through today with similar issues on smaller scales. But what if these painful revelations aren't simply tragedies to be mourned but necessary purification to be embraced?
Drawing from personal experience as a young pastor devastated by these scandals, I explore how God has been systematically purging impurities that prevent His authentic power from flowing through His people. The persistent issues of financial impropriety, moral compromise, and power abuse (what some call "the gold, the girls, and the glory") reveal deeper heart conditions that religiosity alone cannot address. True transformation requires more than polished behavior or doctrinal precision—it demands purity of heart manifested in how we treat one another.
Jesus's act of washing His disciples' feet in John 13 provides the perfect framework for understanding God's current work in the church. Even knowing Judas would betray Him that night, Jesus included him in this symbolic purification. When Peter protested, Jesus made a profound statement: "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me," followed by a mysterious observation that not everyone present was truly clean. This wasn't about external religious purity but heart transformation that changes how we think about and speak to each other. The disciples had witnessed three years of Jesus's teaching and miracles yet still competed with one another instead of serving in love. God is removing these same impurities today so His church can experience the unity Jesus prayed for in John 17—not uniformity of style but unity of heart comparable to the perfect harmony within the Trinity. This purification isn't punishment but preparation for greater glory and authentic kingdom power. Ready for clean hearts and servant hands? God is calling us upward so His glory can come down.
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Ever wondered why some divine promises seem perpetually stuck on "pending" status? That uncomfortable feeling of restlessness when God's timeline doesn't match yours isn't just frustrating—it might actually be disconnecting you from the very breakthroughs you're waiting for.
This episode explores the profound connection between patience and spiritual power. Using the analogy of a power switch, we discover how impatience can effectively cut us off from experiencing God's provision—not because the power isn't available, but because we've disconnected ourselves through frustration and unbelief. With insights from Galatians 6:9, we learn that perseverance isn't just passive waiting but an active stance of courage that keeps us connected to divine possibilities.
What makes Noah's story so remarkable wasn't just the scale of his construction project, but his willingness to remain connected to God's instructions despite never having seen rain. His experience illustrates how we function as citizens of God's Kingdom while navigating the constraints of time and space. Our temporal existence creates the perfect environment for developing patience—a virtue that can only be cultivated in the gap between promise and fulfillment. Whether you're waiting for answers, breakthrough, or resolution, this message offers practical wisdom on maintaining your spiritual connection during seasons of apparent delay. The good news? The Holy Spirit produces patience as fruit in our lives, enabling us to stay plugged in until God's appointed time arrives.
Ready to transform your relationship with waiting? Listen now and discover how patience might be the missing key to unlocking God's promises in your life. Have thoughts or questions? We'd love to hear from you at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com!
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Have you ever noticed that pivotal moment when something long-discussed finally becomes reality? That threshold where anticipation transforms into present experience? This profound transition lies at the heart of our spiritual journey today.
Drawing from four decades of officiating weddings, I've witnessed countless couples cross this threshold—their expressions revealing everything from wonder to apprehension as theoretical commitment becomes lived reality. This same dynamic is unfolding spiritually on a global scale right now. The divine manifestation prophesied for generations isn't approaching—it has begun. We're standing in the early currents of God's unprecedented movement on Earth.
Many miss divine moments because they arrive differently than expected. When Jesus came as Messiah, religious experts overlooked him because he didn't match their preconceived notions. God is utterly original—not a duplicate of past movements—and His originality often confounds expectations. Consider the Last Supper where Jesus said, "With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer." This wasn't mere preparation but the fulfillment of prophecy—the moment when the new covenant was established through His blood.
What does this mean for us? We must develop spiritual discernment that transcends our expectations. The question isn't whether God is moving but whether we can recognize His movement. Will we be like those who missed the Messiah because He came differently than imagined? Or will we embrace God's present reality with open hearts? The water isn't over our heads yet, but it's rising. The time for preparation has given way to participation in what God is doing now.
Connect with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com or visit our website to share your thoughts on recognizing God's movement in this prophetic season. How are you experiencing His presence in ways you hadn't anticipated?
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True relationship with God involves intimate knowledge that goes beyond religious activity, illustrated through the powerful metaphor of a spouse's embrace and the Hebrew concept of "yada."
• Experiencing the difference between a physical embrace and the heart-to-heart connection that happens during intimate moments
• Jesus' warning in Matthew 7:21-23 about those who performed religious acts but whom He "never knew"
• The Hebrew word "yada" carries deeper meaning than intellectual knowledge—it implies intimate relationship
• Religious activities without heart connection are like "hugging a board"
• God desires relationship over religion, though systematic good works have their place
• Our heavenly Father enjoys working alongside us, even through our mistakes
• Unlike some earthly fathers, God delights in being with us during mundane moments
• The blood of Jesus continually cleanses our "temple" so the Holy Spirit can fully dwell within us
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A desperate request from an exhausted spiritual leader forms the foundation of this deeply moving exploration of what it truly means to minister to one another. When an elderly statesman approached his associate with tears in his eyes pleading "preach to me," it revealed a profound truth: even the most seasoned leaders hunger for others to speak God's word into their lives.
This episode unpacks the transformative power of availability over ability. The associate had no prepared message, no clever insights ready to share—just an empty vessel willing to be used. From this emptiness flowed a flood of inspiration that brought healing to a weary soul. It's a powerful reminder that God doesn't require our expertise so much as our willingness to be conduits of His presence.
We explore how our words function as containers of either life or death, and how believers are called to be atmosphere-changers who transform environments with the peace of God's kingdom. This authority doesn't come from credentials or titles but from living in submission to God's authority. True leadership emerges not from diplomas but from active, obedient living that causes others to follow.
The episode challenges us to move beyond religious performance toward authentic relationship—being honest enough to admit when we're spiritually hungry and courageous enough to minister from our emptiness. For those who've abandoned their calling or felt inadequate for the task, there's a resurgence happening as God calls His people out of shadowy places of disappointment into fresh purpose and power. Your greatest qualification might not be what you know, but your willingness to be available when someone needs you to speak life into their situation.
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Have you ever stopped to consider what worship truly means beyond our religious traditions? Worship isn't simply singing songs or going through motions—it's giving everything you have (your body, mind, and spirit) to someone you consider greater than yourself. It's willingly surrendering your own rights to fulfill the desires of another.
When we examine the confrontation between Jesus and Satan in the wilderness, we discover something profound. Satan didn't merely want Jesus to perform religious activities; he wanted Jesus to give himself completely over in adoration. Jesus responded with clarity: worship belongs to God alone. Later, in his conversation with a Samaritan woman, Jesus revealed that true worshipers connect with God "in spirit and in truth"—not through empty ritual but through genuine devotion.
One of the most revolutionary insights about worship is that we honor God by enjoying what He's created. Whether that's delighting in relationships, appreciating nature, or receiving His gifts with gratitude, our enjoyment brings pleasure to God's heart. This perspective transforms worship from obligation into joyful connection. When we gather in authentic worship—whether four people or four thousand—the atmosphere changes as God's glory becomes manifest among us.
The culture of God's Kingdom is built on worship, and as believers, we're called to live as worshipers in every aspect of life. Our thoughts, words, and actions all express our devotion. Worship isn't something we do; it's who we are. Take time today to consider where your deepest devotion lies, and allow the Holy Spirit to realign your heart toward the only One truly worthy of worship.
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Have you ever met someone and immediately disliked them without clear reason? This raw honesty opens our exploration into gossip – not the harmless chatter we often dismiss it as, but a destructive force that tears through communities like a silent toxin.
Drawing from Rick Renner's powerful teaching, we unpack what scripture really says about gossip. The biblical term translated as "corrupt communication" comes from the Greek word phaulos – literally describing something rotten and maggot-filled. This visceral imagery helps us understand why gossip grieves the Holy Spirit and why scripture places it alongside serious offenses like wrath, strife, and arrogance.
Gossip thrives in whispers and secretive corners. It's talking about others' business, spreading unverified information, and speaking with false authority about matters that don't concern us. The damage extends far beyond momentary drama – gossip destroys reputations, creates division, erodes trust, and can trigger anxiety, depression, and isolation in its targets. In workplaces and church communities, it poisons morale, stifles innovation, and makes healing from past mistakes nearly impossible.
Breaking free requires courage. When someone approaches with "information" about another person, we can decline to participate, suggest asking the person directly, or gently explain why gossip is harmful. These small acts of resistance help create an alternative culture – one of honor and genuine care for others' dignity.
Imagine communities transformed by encouraging words instead of whispered criticisms. Such environments become magnetic, drawing people curious about what makes them different. That's our opportunity to share the true good news of Jesus Christ rather than the false "news" of gossip.
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What happens when an LSD-using, rock-and-roll lifestyle collides with a genuine encounter with Jesus Christ? This raw, powerful testimony traces one man's journey from religious duty to spiritual reality, revealing the transformative power of walking in the Spirit.
Born during the baby boomer generation and spiritually reborn during the Jesus movement at age 13, the speaker candidly shares his wandering years through drugs and darkness. His turning point arrives at age 21 during the charismatic renewal—a dramatic shift from going through religious motions to experiencing genuine spiritual empowerment.
The revelation that changed everything? "There's a difference between just reading the Bible and having the Author read it with you." This perspective transformed Scripture from a dead religious text into a living message, beginning a forty-year journey of continual spiritual discovery. Drawing from Galatians 5-6, the teaching explores the stark contrast between works of the flesh and fruit of the Spirit, offering practical insight on maintaining spiritual vitality without burning out.
Walking in the Spirit isn't mystical or unattainable—it's practical cooperation with God's presence that produces supernatural results. The balanced rhythm of work, rest, worship, and play creates sustainable spiritual growth that avoids the common pitfalls of weariness and disillusionment. As we persevere in this Spirit-led journey, we participate in God's ultimate purpose: His kingdom covering the earth "as the waters cover the sea."
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What happens when you step outside time's constraints and enter God's eternal now? It's a radical shift in perspective that transforms everything about how we experience faith, relationship, and life itself.
For many believers, spiritual life becomes fragmented across time - we're either haunted by past failures, anxiously anticipating future challenges, or caught in a strange limbo between the two. This scatters our attention and dilutes our capacity for authentic connection. But what if the kingdom of God operates on a different timeline altogether? What if eternity isn't just waiting for us at the end of our lives but is available as a present reality?
Through powerful scripture passages and the compelling metaphor of an elephant trained to believe it's still chained when it's actually free, we explore how Christ liberates us from time's tyranny. Just as adult elephants remain tethered by invisible chains from their youth, many believers continue living within past limitations even after salvation has broken those bonds. The revelation is both simple and profound: salvation covers us completely while also addressing specific areas of bondage.
The implications are life-changing. When we truly grasp that "what time is it in God's kingdom?" has only one answer - NOW - we begin experiencing the abundant life Jesus promised. We discover that eternal life isn't just about duration but about a quality of existence available today. Relationships deepen, anxiety diminishes, and we become living testimonies to Christ's liberating power.
Ready to break free from yesterday's chains and tomorrow's worries? Join us as we explore what it means to fully inhabit God's eternal now. Connect with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com or visit our website for more resources to fuel your spiritual journey.
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Something is stirring in the hearts of believers across the world. A divine hunger, planted by God Himself, calling us beyond the comfortable confines of what many have accepted as the Christian life.
Have you felt it? That nagging sense that there must be more to following Jesus than simply being good until you die and go to heaven? You're not alone, and you're not crazy. The stirring you feel is the voice of God calling you deeper into His kingdom reality—not just as a future hope, but as a present experience.
For too long, many Christians have lived like trained elephants with invisible chains. As baby elephants, they were limited by real restraints until they stopped trying to break free. Even when the chains were removed, leaving only a bracelet, they remained bound by the memory of limitation. This powerful metaphor reflects how many believers have accepted artificial boundaries on God's power working through them. The good news? Those limitations are lies. The prison doors are open.
The Book of Acts wasn't the conclusion of God's kingdom expression—it was just the beginning. What makes Christianity vibrant and attractive isn't our list of "don'ts" but the supernatural life of God actively flowing through us. That's what draws people to Jesus: believers who function with confidence in God's power, demonstrating His love through signs, wonders, and authentic community.
This unfolding of kingdom power requires something often missing in church culture: the freedom to try, fail, and grow. Like any product development, spiritual growth happens through "research and development"—spaces where we can explore the gifts of the Spirit without fear of criticism when our attempts aren't perfect. It's easier to steer a moving car than a parked one.
If you're hungry for more, know that God is positioning you to connect with others who share this same passion. The cry within you comes from Him, and He will satisfy it. Ready to break free from religious routine and step into the empowering grace that makes the Christian life the most engaging adventure possible? Let's journey together into the unfolding kingdom.
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Freedom begins when accusations fall silent. In this powerful exploration of Jesus' encounter with the woman caught in adultery, we uncover a profound demonstration of "binding and loosing" that goes far beyond religious formulas or magical thinking.
What happens when we witness Jesus confronted with a woman trapped by shame, facing death under religious law? Rather than simply pronouncing forgiveness, Jesus first creates space by silencing her accusers. This tactical move—binding the voices of condemnation before speaking freedom—reveals the true nature of spiritual authority. Jesus doesn't just say the right words; he takes decisive action that transforms the entire situation.
Drawing from this remarkable story in John 8, we discover how binding and loosing represents our privilege and responsibility as believers. The kingdom breaks into reality not through empty declarations but through the powerful combination of words and works. Like ironing a wrinkled shirt requires both identifying the problem and taking out the iron, spiritual transformation demands both declaration and demonstration.
As we examine how Jesus quieted the condemning voices before speaking freedom to the woman, we find a paradigm for our own spiritual authority. The accusations that drive destructive behaviors must first be silenced so people can hear the liberating voice saying, "Go and sin no more." This isn't a burden but an empowering reality—you're now free not to sin.
Ready to move beyond formulas to experience the true power of Heaven manifesting on Earth? Let this message reshape how you understand your role in making God's invisible Kingdom visible. Share your thoughts or questions with us at lifeonthefire@gmail.com or visit our website at lifeonthefire.com.
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Have you ever felt utterly alone in a crowded room? That's exactly what happened one night in 1980 when, surrounded by party-goers in my own home, I realized a devastating truth: once what I provided was gone, these people would leave. This moment of clarity became the backdrop for a life-changing spiritual encounter.
The voice cut through my emptiness with three simple words: "I love you." Something about it was unmistakable – Jesus Christ was speaking directly to my heart. While everyone around me wanted to take something, He wanted to give something. While my relationships were transactional, His love was transformational. This stark contrast illuminated the deception I had been living in – what I thought was freedom was actually bondage, what looked beautiful was ultimately destructive.
This personal testimony opens our eyes to a profound spiritual truth: there's a fundamental difference between pursuing relationships, substances, or experiences to fill our emptiness versus allowing Jesus to occupy the central place in our lives. When we make Him central – not ourselves, not others, not our careers – spiritual doors open that nothing else can unlock. The deepest human longing to be loved and to love can only be genuinely fulfilled through Christ, who demonstrated the ultimate expression of love by laying down His life. As the Holy Spirit continues working across nations, He's clearing away clouds of delusion to give us clearer glimpses of our magnificent Savior.
Ready to experience God's love at a level you've never known before? It's waiting for you – not in religion, but in relationship. Contact us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com to continue the conversation about moving from eternal religion to eternal life.
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The spiritual language barrier is real. While many of us are witnessing an unprecedented global movement of God's presence, our specialized vocabulary often leaves newcomers confused and isolated. This isn't about waiting for revival—we're already experiencing the early stages of perhaps the most significant demonstration of God's presence since Christ walked among us.
Through candid conversation and a healthy dose of self-awareness, we explore how "Christianese" terms like "hedge of protection," "washed in the blood," and even seemingly innocuous phrases like "I've been praying for you" can sound utterly foreign to those outside our faith circles. Rather than creating barriers with our language, we're called to build bridges that allow everyone to participate in what God is doing across nations and communities worldwide.
This episode marks four years of podcast ministry that has grown from a small vision in Jacksonville, Florida to reaching thousands across more than 70 countries. With this expanding influence comes responsibility—to communicate clearly, inclusively, and without the defensive posture that often characterizes religious discourse. By examining our speech patterns with humor rather than shame, we can become more effective in sharing authentic relationship with God during these desperate times. Join us in learning how to translate our deepest spiritual truths into language that invites rather than excludes, all while participating in this remarkable global awakening.
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The diversity of human perception isn't something to fear but essential to God's design for spiritual growth and authentic community. True unity isn't found in uniformity of thought but in relationship with God and one another through Christ's presence as our central focal point.
• Relationship with God transforms us from merely existing to participating in His unfolding kingdom with purpose
• Western Christians often value hard data over spiritual perception, creating tension for prophetically gifted people
• Creating environments where we "catch people doing something right" fosters spaces where new insights can develop
• An increasing awareness of spiritual portals—places where heaven and earth interact—is emerging among believers
• Jesus demonstrated the importance of these spiritual access points at Caesarea Philippi
• Those sensing prophetic insights about kingdom portals should bring these directly to Jesus before sharing widely
• God is preparing believers across nations to function within these spiritual dynamics in His perfect timing
I love you. If you have any thoughts, questions, concerns, please feel free to drop us a line at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com, or you can type in Life Around the Fire and look us up on the web.
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What do hot dog eating contests have to do with your spiritual life? More than you might think. When contestants gorge themselves on nutritionally deficient food, they mirror how many of us settle for spiritual fast food when God has prepared a heavenly feast.
Many of us live with "hot dog spirituality" – focusing our attention on immediate concerns, earthly problems, and temporary distractions. We've become so accustomed to this way of thinking that we don't realize there's something infinitely better available. The good news? God is actively working across nations to capture our attention and shift our focus from the temporal to the eternal.
For believers, we aren't just going to be seated with Christ in heavenly places someday – we are currently seated there (Ephesians 2:6). This isn't theological abstraction but an invitation to experiential reality. Our speech reveals where our true focus lies, as what we contemplate most flows from our mouths. Through the Holy Spirit's power, we can change direction, shifting from earthly preoccupations to heavenly perspectives.
Sometimes the most challenging transition isn't from bad to good, but from good to better. We're being invited to function as conduits of God's word, vessels through which heaven touches earth. Jesus didn't establish another religion; He came to transform us into His likeness and incorporate us into His body.
Ready to drop the spiritual hot dog and feast at God's banqueting table? Connect with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com and join the journey upward into the fullness God has prepared for those who love Him.
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Have you ever considered that your spiritual journey wasn't something you initiated? That perhaps God was pursuing you long before you even recognized it? This profound reality forms the foundation of our exploration into what lies beyond the basic gospel message.
The cross—that ancient instrument of torture and humiliation—serves as more than just a symbol of sacrifice. It represents the divine paradox where absolute weakness becomes the birthplace of ultimate power. Jesus, in his most vulnerable state—bloodied, mocked, and dying—defeated death itself. But this victory was never meant to be the end of the story.
Many Christians stop at the cross, content with salvation but missing the fullness of what follows. Resurrection life. Ascension authority. The privilege of functioning as citizens of God's Kingdom with real spiritual power and purpose. Throughout the New Testament, particularly in Paul's epistles, we find detailed instructions for living in this elevated reality—not someday in heaven, but right now in our everyday lives.
God is progressively unfolding His plan across nations and within our hearts. What was once mysterious is becoming clear. We're being invited to mature beyond spiritual milk to meat, beyond religious rituals to relationship, beyond cross to crown. This generation has access to one of history's greatest displays of God's presence and glory, if we'll only recognize and step into it.
Ready to discover what it means to be seated with Christ in heavenly places? To make declarations that transform reality? To grow up before you grow old? Let's journey together beyond the cross into the fullness of Kingdom life and authority.
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The crucifixion of Jesus Christ represents much more than a religious symbol or historical event—it stands as the central pillar of God's kingdom. Through powerful teaching and an extensive reading from Colossians 2-3, we explore how the cross fundamentally transforms our relationship with God through blood covenant.
When we place our faith in Christ's sacrifice, something extraordinary happens: God takes our old sinful nature that was in rebellion against Him and gives us His divine life in return. Our old self with its practices isn't just improved—it's literally "nailed to the cross." This divine exchange isn't about following religious rules but experiencing a complete renewal of our nature.
The love demonstrated at Calvary proves stronger than death itself. Jesus wasn't defeated at the cross; He triumphantly made "a public spectacle" of the powers of darkness even in His seemingly weakest moment. This victory wasn't just to secure our afterlife but to empower us as kingdom citizens right now. We're called to "colonize planet Earth with the kingdom" through supernatural demonstrations of God's power until Christ's return.
Most profoundly, we discover that the cross enables us to live "upright" instead of "upside down." No longer bound by patterns leading to death, we can embrace God's kingdom culture and walk in resurrection power. Has God been drawing you toward Himself? The divine life that conquered death is available to you today—you don't need to wait for heaven to experience the supernatural reality of God's kingdom.
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The moment you realize God's justice isn't slow—it's thorough. This profound spiritual journey explores the paradoxical power of Christ's crucifixion through personal testimony and theological reflection.
From Hitler to Saddam Hussein, history shows us that bringing high-ranking officials to justice requires meticulous process. Similarly, Satan—the highest-ranking criminal who attempted to usurp divine authority—is subject to God's thorough judgment. The wheels of divine justice may appear to turn slowly, but they "grind exceedingly fine," ensuring complete and perfect judgment.
The cross stands at the center of human history as the ultimate crossroads. Like Paul writing to the Corinthians, we must sometimes set aside our complexity and return to this fundamental truth: Jesus Christ and Him crucified. Through captivating personal testimony, we journey from a five-year-old child's first encounter with a crucifixion image to a transformative basement experience at thirteen, where Christ's presence became palpably real. This raw account reveals how spiritual understanding often begins with simple questions, lies dormant for years, then erupts in unexpected moments of divine encounter.
What makes Christ's sacrifice so transformative? He accomplishes what we cannot. He bridges gaps we don't even recognize exist. He changes our trajectory completely, instilling within believers a spiritual compass that continuously reorients us toward Him despite our struggles. Through the cross, Jesus takes our sin and gives us His divine life—a profound exchange that creates overcomers who can stand against the powers of darkness. Have you experienced this personal transformation? We'd love to hear your story at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com.
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The Cross of Christ stands at the central crossroads of all human history—a singular moment that forever altered the relationship between God and humanity. Yet how do we adequately express the depth and significance of what happened during those hours of suffering and sacrifice?
This message delves into the heart of God's kingdom by examining its most pivotal moment: the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Like "a Coke bottle full of pennies all wanting to spill out at once," there's an overwhelming fullness to this truth that defies simple explanation. The Roman cross—designed as a mechanism of torture and public humiliation—became God's chosen instrument to demonstrate the limitless extent of divine love.
What compelled Jesus to endure such suffering? Scripture tells us it was "for the joy set before him"—not merely the joy of returning to His heavenly position, but the profound anticipation of sharing His divine life with us throughout eternity. When Jesus looked at humanity, He saw beings worth dying for, worth suffering for, worth creating a path to relationship with, regardless of the personal cost.
The crucifixion represents far more than a historical event to be commemorated. It serves as the divine solution to humanity's fundamental problem: the condition of sin that brings death and rebellion against God. Through Christ's sacrifice, we witness the ultimate covenant exchange—our sin becoming His, His divine life becoming ours. No human effort could break these chains; only the blood of Jesus could liberate us from the compulsions and destructive patterns that damage our lives and relationships.
Following Christ means journeying to the cross, through the cross, and beyond—into resurrection life and our true identity seated with Him in heavenly places. What appeared as defeat to human eyes was actually the seed of unstoppable kingdom power. Three days after what seemed like failure, resurrection revealed the greatest victory in cosmic history.
Have you experienced this transformation from citizen of death to citizen of God's kingdom? Are you living in the freedom Christ purchased at such tremendous cost? This message invites you to look into the passionate eyes of Jesus and hear Him say, "I love you. I did this for you."
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Divine timing marks significant moments where heaven's reality breaks into earth's limitations. Throughout history, when Jesus declared "the hour has come," everything changed—and now another such moment has arrived.
This transformative revelation explores how God's kingdom operates in the eternal now while still interfacing with our time-space reality. When we enter covenant relationship with Jesus, we experience a divine exchange where our past, present, and future become His, while His life, nature, and kingdom citizenship become ours. This isn't about improving our old self but embracing an entirely new identity and way of functioning as kingdom citizens.
What makes this urgently relevant is the recognition that we've entered a season where encounters with Jesus are increasing in frequency and intensity. These divine meetings reveal dimensions of Christ beyond what many have previously experienced—transforming not just individuals but entire communities. Most striking is how these manifestations often bypass traditional religious structures, with God's presence filling warehouses as easily as cathedrals.
The spiritual hunger awakening in believers represents a divinely-implanted desire—not something to fear but to nurture. As walls of non-essential doctrines come down, a united people emerge, made ready through yielding to the very presence that purifies. Whether you're experiencing this divine outpouring or searching for it, this message will fan the flames of holy anticipation for what God is doing right now.
Join us as we explore what it means to participate in this unprecedented manifestation of God's glory—not tomorrow, not someday, but in this eternal now moment where the kingdom breaks through.
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"Wherever faith is present, the impossible is doable." This powerful truth serves as the foundation for our exploration of authentic kingdom living and the systematic dismantling of religious idols that hinder our spiritual growth.
Over the years, God has been revealing how certain mindsets and systems—sacred cows—need toppling in our lives to make way for true kingdom citizenship. For many believers, these include the drug culture mentality, seeker-sensitive corporate religion, and the "I'm done with church" attitude. Each represents a way of thinking that ultimately proves inferior to God's design for His people.
The seeker-sensitive church model particularly warrants examination. Despite appearing evangelistic, it often morphs into compromise—leadership resembling corporate America more than biblical principles, focus on metrics over maturity, and personality cults overshadowing Jesus himself. What appears successful on the surface—large gatherings, polished presentations, and sophisticated programs—frequently masks spiritual emptiness and burnout. This democratic approach (majority rules) contradicts God's kingdom, which operates as a theocracy (God rules).
Equally problematic is the reaction many have had to religious systems—complete withdrawal. Being "done" with organized religion might feel righteous, but attempting to follow Christ in isolation constitutes rebellion. We simply cannot do this alone. God is pouring His loving-kindness into hearts, replacing caustic attitudes toward the body of Christ with genuine love for His people.
The encouraging reality is that this transformation is happening globally. God is systematically reshaping His church—sometimes through willing cooperation as people recognize the need for change; other times through messier processes. The kingdom of God isn't disorganized chaos but an organism with organization—like a human body with its skeleton covered by life, flexibility, and relationship.
Have you experienced God toppling sacred cows in your life? We'd love to hear your story. Reach out to us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com or visit lifearoundthefire on the web.
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Step into the transformative world of God's kingdom in our latest episode, where we explore the profound impact it can have on your life today. We invite you to see the kingdom not just as a distant reality, but as an active, present state of being that shapes our daily interactions and choices. Throughout the episode, we discuss the struggles many face when trying to comprehend what it truly means to belong to this divine kingdom and the necessity of adjusting our perspectives to align with God's vision.
As we break down key concepts, we delve into the powerful imagery of the Holy Spirit as a tuning fork—guiding us to find harmony within the divine symphony of God's creation. This connection emphasizes the importance of being in tune with our purpose and participating actively in the unfolding narrative of faith in our lives.
Our conversation also prioritizes the theme of relationship over religion, showcasing how a genuine connection to God inspires a heartfelt, lived experience far beyond following a checklist of rules. We highlight the depth of belonging that accompanies being a citizen of His kingdom, celebrating the love, grace, and community that transform how we relate to ourselves and those around us.
Join us as we challenge you to embrace your identity within this kingdom and discover the richness that awaits. This episode is not just a discussion; it's a call to action. We encourage you to tune into the divine symphony, explore your unique role, and reflect on how you can live out this transformative reality today. Subscribe to our podcast for more insightful discussions and share your thoughts with us—we'd love to hear from you!
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Amid the lush embrace of northern Minnesota's woods, a deep and reflective conversation unfolds about the relationship between nature and our spiritual journey. The latest episode takes listeners on a personal journey through the host's early memories of learning the art of seeing from his father during quiet, slow walks in the wilderness. Connecting those lessons to our understanding of the Kingdom of God, we explore how the pace of life influences our ability to genuinely perceive our surroundings, both earthly and heavenly.
Throughout the episode, we discuss the profound significance of truly knowing God over mere religious performance, making a powerful case for intimacy with the divine. By diving into thought-provoking Scripture passages, we encourage listeners to rethink the nature of their spiritual encounters. Through engaging anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, you'll discover that being still, as highlighted in Psalm 46:10, is not just a suggestion but a vital practice for spiritual awakening.
The episode brings insights into how long-term bonds shape our identity, highlighting the beautiful convergence of a life well-lived in relationship with God. By the end, you'll feel encouraged to step outside, to slow down, and to allow nature to reveal deeper truths about yourself and your faith.
Join us for this inspiring journey toward understanding and connecting with the Kingdom of God—it's a conversation meant to spark curiosity, reflection, and engagement. Don't forget to subscribe, share with friends, and leave your thoughts—we'd love to hear how you experience God and His Kingdom in your everyday life!
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What if an ancient book could illuminate the complexities of modern life? Join us as we explore a spiritual journey that begins with the accidental discovery of "the Books". This episode promises to reveal the timeless relevance of the Bible, not just as a historical text, but as a living guide full of wisdom and insight that speaks to our deepest human experiences. We delve into the significance of sharing these divine truths with others and how such a spiritual transformation can influence our everyday lives.
As we turn our focus to the kingdom of God, we unravel the mysteries surrounding its spiritual reign and manifestation on Earth amidst turmoil and change. A prophecy hints at an upcoming financial upheaval that could transform global dynamics, much like the biblical events that unfolded in a single day. By drawing parallels to stories such as the siege of Samaria, we underscore the power of faith and God's intervention during times of adversity, reminding us that His kingdom will ultimately prevail.
Finally, we uncover a tale of mercy and redemption through the story of four lepers who learn the profound importance of sharing blessings. Their journey from self-preservation to community care highlights the theme of inviting others into God's kingdom, even in the face of doubt and skepticism. As we anticipate a financial shift towards the righteous, the conversation centers on trusting Jesus to provide for our needs and relying on His promises and justice. Join us as we stand together in faith and love, praying for the revelation of God's glory across the nations.
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Discover the reality and the realm of God's rule and reign as we embark on a compelling exploration. Through the lens of the Gospel of Luke, chapter 22, and other synoptic gospels, we unravel the pivotal moments leading up to Jesus' crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. This episode bridges personal reflection with instructional insight, showcasing how the Kingdom of God is accessible through belief and covenant relationship with Jesus. Join us as we uncover the essence of Jesus' ministry and His unwavering commitment to elevating those society often overlooks.
Experience the tension and devotion that surrounded Jesus in His final days as we navigate the pages of Mark chapter 14. We highlight the striking contrast between a woman's act of worship through anointing Jesus with costly oil and Judas Iscariot's impending betrayal. This narrative not only emphasizes Jesus' sacrifice but also serves as a testament to the transformative power of true faith. We take a closer look at how Jesus challenged religious leaders and societal norms, steadfastly prioritizing relationships and spiritual depth over superficial customs.
Gain insights on living authentically by freeing yourself from the constraints of others' opinions. Inspired by Jesus' life, we explore the importance of aligning with God's kingdom and relying on divine guidance rather than human approval. As we fix our eyes on Jesus, we invite you to experience God's love and presence in your own life. We conclude with a heartfelt prayer and invite you to connect with us, fostering a community grounded in faith and mutual support. Let us navigate the complexities of life together, as we strive for authenticity and spiritual depth.
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The episode powerfully examines the themes of betrayal and redemption through the lens of Jesus’ interactions with Judas and the significance of the Last Supper. It invites listeners to explore the discomfort of exposure and the hope of confession while hinting at impending societal shifts that call for reliance on God's eternal promises.
• Insights into the Kingdom of God and its transformative nature
• The conspiracy of religious leaders against Jesus
• A reflection on Judas Iscariot's betrayal
• The significance of the Passover and the Last Supper
• The discomfort of exposure and the importance of confession
• Prophetic insights on the possibility of economic and societal shifts
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Can you experience the Kingdom of God while living in the here and now? Join us on "Life Around the Fire" as we unpack the profound connection between relationships, spiritual growth, and our divine reality. Discover the unique metaphor of transparencies that reveals how this heavenly kingdom is not just a future promise but a present reality illuminated through spiritual insight. We promise you'll gain a fresh perspective on how to align your daily life with the Kingdom's principles, recognizing your place in this divine realm. Our conversation is designed to ignite moments of insight and transformation, guiding you to weave newfound understanding into your everyday interactions.
We also reflect on the transformative power of the Last Supper, exploring its deep spiritual significance in today's context. Imagine the scene with the apostles at the Passover meal, where Jesus' act of sharing bread and wine symbolized a new covenant filled with profound love and sacrifice. We emphasize the vital importance of approaching communion with sincerity and awareness of its sacred meaning. As we examine the interplay of divine timing and societal shifts, you'll be encouraged to stay present and focused on the teachings of Jesus. Embrace the spiritual rebirth and eternal covenant established through Christ's love, as we invite you to journey with us into this sacred exploration.
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Have you ever felt trapped in the confines of empty traditions, longing for a more authentic experience of faith? Join me as I share my personal journey from religious routine to genuine spiritual expression, inspired by the powerful teachings of the Gospel of Luke. Our latest episode explores the tension between religion and the Kingdom of God, where I candidly discuss my struggle to create content that remains true to my spiritual convictions. We'll explore how building meaningful relationships with God and each other can transform our lives, as opposed to relying solely on conventional church structures.
This episode also shines a spotlight on the demonstration of God's Kingdom, emphasizing the importance of balancing teachings with living out those principles in real life. We reflect on how early Christian focus has shifted and advocate for a revival rooted in love and power, rather than outdated legalistic practices. As we journey together, you'll hear my heartfelt declaration of blessings, inviting all listeners to engage in a dialogue that fosters growth and understanding. Whether you're a lifelong believer or new to exploring faith, this episode promises a refreshing perspective on living out the promises of the covenant with genuine passion.
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Our latest podcast episode dives deep into how God is presently unfolding His kingdom, inviting us to experience new dimensions of love, healing, and faith. We explore the dynamic relationship between the "already" and the "not yet," offering messages of hope for listeners actively seeking transformation in their lives.
• Embracing childlike faith and exploration
• Understanding the concepts of already and not yet in faith
• Real-life testimonies of hope and healing
• The importance of communication in love and relationships
• Reformation and renewal in the modern faith landscape
• Inviting listeners to experience God’s active presence in their lives
• Understanding the power of love and prayer in making an impact
If you have any thoughts, questions, or concerns, please feel free to drop us a line at lifearoundthefire at gmail.com, or look us up on the web. We would love to hear from you.
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What does it mean to truly persevere in love, especially within the kingdom of God? Join in as we uncover the transformative power of faith and consistency in embodying God's divine nature. Through the lens of 2 Peter, chapter 1, we explore how Jesus' trials and sufferings serve as a model of the persistent, unconditional love we are called to exhibit. We confront the internal struggle of enduring criticism and gossip while striving to love others unconditionally, and consider how consistent actions define our identity as Christians. By embracing prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we focus our thoughts on Jesus, allowing us to become more like Him and align with a higher standard of life.
As we journey through this episode, we highlight the challenges and responsibilities of leadership in God's kingdom, emphasizing the necessity of surrendering control to God's kingship to fulfill our assignments with divine authority. The discussion also touches on the significance of persistent love as the true motivating force of God's kingdom, reminding us that love is more than a fleeting emotion—it is a deliberate, ongoing action. Wrapping up, I share exciting updates about the podcast, inviting listeners to stay connected and share their thoughts as we continue on this path of spiritual growth. Your support means the world, and I encourage you to reach out with your insights and inquiries.
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The episode explores the transformative impact of love in the context of God’s Kingdom, emphasizing that this divine love is foundational to spiritual growth. David shares personal reflections and modern adaptations of the hymn "Amazing Love" to connect listeners with the timeless essence of God's love.
• Exploring the central theme of love as God's kingdom's essence
• Understanding the transition from the invisible to the visible world
• Personal reflections on the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice
• The role of prayer in focusing on spiritual growth
• Encouraging listeners to experience and share God’s love
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Discover the transformative power of love over politics and power as we explore the profound essence of the kingdom of God. What if the foundation of an eternal kingdom isn't authority or might, but rather an unyielding This episode emphasizes the driving force of love within the kingdom of God and the importance of understanding God's presence, even in quiet times. We discuss the parable of the growing seed as a metaphor for spiritual growth and rest, encouraging listeners to trust in God's unseen work during periods of silence.
• Exploring the role of love in the kingdom of God
• Addressing feelings of absence and distance from God
• Understanding the parable of the growing seed
• Emphasizing the importance of trust during quiet moments
• The significance of rest in spiritual growth
• Encouraging community engagement and shared experiences
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What if the secret to truly understanding the power of God's Kingdom lies not just in what Jesus taught, but in how He lived? This episode of Life Around the Fire takes you on a spiritual odyssey, revealing profound insights into the Kingdom of God and the unwavering love that defines it. I share my journey of admiration and commitment to Jesus, as well as the transformative power of becoming a citizen of this divine realm. By exploring the essence of God's Kingdom, we uncover a culture nurtured by infinite goodness and unconditional love—a stark contrast to the information overload of our daily lives. This isn't just about theology; it's an invitation to experience a deeper connection with Jesus through personal stories and spiritual wisdom.
Get ready to witness the Kingdom's true nature as we delve into Jesus's life and how His actions made the invisible visible through the Holy Spirit. Empowered by the same Spirit that raised Him from the dead, we believers are called to demonstrate God's love and authority on earth. Discover the gentle yet powerful essence of operating from love, faith, and authority as we dissect 1 Corinthians 13 and stories from the Gospels. Concluding with a heartfelt prayer, we express gratitude and hope that even one soul may be touched by the message shared. You're invited to join the conversation, fostering a community that truly understands the importance of connection in our spiritual journeys.
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Discover the transformative journey into the Kingdom of God, where we unravel what it means to embrace a theocracy in a world so accustomed to democracy. Imagine shedding the layers of our earthly cultures to unlock a realm of spiritual growth and rebirth. With stories from a mission trip to Czechoslovakia during a significant historical moment, we explore the ethos of kingdom living and reflect on the guiding role of the Holy Spirit. This episode challenges our understanding of freedom and discipleship, inviting you to become more than just an observer of divine principles.
We dive deep into the essence of love, inspired by biblical narratives that teach us about patience and selflessness. Marvel at how Jesus' acts of healing in Capernaum illuminate a love that celebrates others' victories without envy. We encourage you to live out this divine love, putting others first and finding joy in their successes. As we express gratitude and dedication through prayer, listeners are warmly invited to connect and share their insights, continuing our collective journey in the light and love of God's Kingdom. Blessings abound as we conclude with a heartfelt farewell, urging all to carry this love into their daily lives.
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This episode explores the transformative and unconditional love of God as a central tenet of the Kingdom of God. Through biblical stories and personal reflection, we discuss how love empowers us to forgive, overcome fear, and build genuine relationships.
• Introduction to the episode's theme of spiritual growth centered on God's love
• Understanding the Kingdom of God as a realm governed by love and kindness
• Discussing how love is the ultimate power over fear and punishment
• Prayer for focus and clarity in understanding God's love
• Analyzing the story of the woman caught in adultery and its lessons on kindness
• Emphasizing forgiveness as a key principle in living out God's love
• Reflecting on Peter's redemption and the liberation from sins
• Conclusion with a call to embody and demonstrate God's love in our lives
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Amidst the chaos of a world in constant transition, have you ever wondered what it truly means to be aligned with the kingdom of God? Step into a realm where spiritual growth transforms your very being. This episode of Life Around the Fire invites you into a conversation that challenges the way we navigate life's changes by aligning our thoughts and actions with divine principles. We journey through the teachings of Jesus, highlighting the transformative power of spiritual rebirth through faith and how it grants us a profound relationship with God as our Father. Personal stories of spiritual pruning illuminate the path towards shedding worldly comforts to reveal a character closer to Jesus'.
Imagine embracing persecution not as a burden, but as a peculiar blessing in your spiritual journey. As we explore this paradox, I share past experiences of cultural prejudice that resonate with the kingdom lifestyle’s contrast to worldly norms. This episode reassures you with the promise of heavenly rewards for enduring trials, drawing inspiration from biblical figures who faced similar challenges. Being part of God's ecclesia means living out our faith with boldness and love, even when misunderstood by the world around us.
Through the teachings of Jesus, we are reminded that love is the essence of discipleship. Discover how staying true to these teachings empowers us to maintain our purpose as the "salt of the earth". Reflect on the profound call to love our enemies, praying for those who oppose us, as genuine rewards arise from loving beyond our immediate circles. As we conclude, we extend a heartfelt invitation for you to connect with our community. Share your thoughts, questions, or personal journeys with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com. We're eager to hear from you and continue fostering a vibrant community dedicated to spiritual growth. God bless you, and until next time, adios amigos!
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A Note From The Editor: In the podcast a mistake was made on the Scripture referrence David used. He said it was Matthew 2:16-4:11. It's actually Matthew 3:16-4:11. Woopsi... LoL!!!
This episode delves into the motivations that drive our actions—whether we do things to get something or because we already have it. We explore the nature of faith as a conduit for God's kingdom, illustrated by Jesus' temptations and how His identity shapes our spiritual growth.
• Understanding the distinction in motivation: to get vs. because we have
• The power of prayer and focusing on Jesus
• Quotes about faith that inspire action
• The mission of manifesting God's kingdom on Earth
• Lessons learned from the temptations of Jesus
• The importance of love over proving one's identity
• Encouragement to live from abundance and trust in God
If you have any thoughts, questions, or concerns, please feel free to drop us a line at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com, or type in lifearoundthefire and look us up on the web. We would love to hear from you!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
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Shalom to you and your home.
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We explore the profound implications of living in God's kingdom and how it contrasts with the cultural values we often hold. The episode emphasizes authenticity over popularity, the importance of understanding kingdom dynamics, and our first loyalty to God.
• Exploring spiritual growth as a relationship with God
• The Kingdom of God and its relevance today
• The dangers of hypocrisy in spiritual communities
• The influence of cultural frameworks on our faith
• How to navigate our loyalty between heaven and earth
• Understanding our identity as citizens of the kingdom
• Emphasizing authenticity over the need for approval
• The call to question teachings and practices contrary to the kingdom
• Recognizing God's kingdom is at hand, not deferred
• A commitment to prayer and seeking God's heart
Feel free to contact us with any thoughts or questions at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com, or visit us online for more resources and insights.
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What if our desire for approval is silently sabotaging our spiritual growth? Join me, David Huotari, as we unravel the profound teachings of Jesus on the Kingdom of God, focusing on the deep-seated issues of hypocrisy and the yearning for recognition. Through the lens of Luke 12, we confront the façade of piety and the Pharisees' influence, contrasting it with the authentic demonstration of God's kingdom by Jesus. Together, we explore the transformative power of spiritual purity and the importance of aligning our inner faith with our outward expressions, steering clear of leaven-like corruption that can spoil genuine intentions.
This episode is a heartfelt journey where prayer becomes a powerful tool for kingdom manifestation. As we navigate through issues of hypocrisy and unforgiveness, we invite the Holy Spirit to guide us towards real, relational discussions that glorify God above all. Our focus is on building a community centered on spiritual growth, not personal glory. We warmly encourage you to share your insights or questions with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com, ensuring that our journey together extends beyond this episode. God bless, and until we meet again, adios amigos.
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This episode focuses on understanding our citizenship in the Kingdom of God and the importance of relationships and unity within it. We explore the power of Jesus’s teachings, attention to detail in spiritual practices, and the call to live out these principles in everyday life.
• Exploring the Kingdom of God as an accessible realm
• Importance of being born again into the kingdom
• Relationship with God and others as the core of kingdom living
• Attention to detail in spiritual growth and practice
• The transformative power of unity within the body of Christ
• Encouragement to pursue deeper engagement with God's kingdom
• Reflection on meticulousness shaping our spiritual lives
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What if the key to unlocking spiritual growth lies in transforming our hearts and minds to embrace the Kingdom of God here and now? Join me on this enlightening episode of Life Around the Fire as we explore this profound question through the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. We'll dive into the transformative message that the Kingdom of God is at hand, urging us to rethink our lives and deepen our spiritual journey. With insights from my recent studies of Luke and John, I shed light on Luke's meticulous approach to documenting the life and teachings of Jesus, revealing the orderly and purposeful unfolding of God's Kingdom.
Unity and collective effort are at the heart of manifesting God's purpose on earth, and this episode examines how true unity reflects the very nature of God. Drawing inspiration from biblical figures like Luke, we discuss the importance of moving beyond superficial connections to foster genuine relationships that embody oneness and harmony. Through heartfelt prayer, we'll seek the strength and courage to confront challenges that hinder our spiritual growth, committing ourselves to actively participate in God's mission. I invite you to engage with our community by sharing your thoughts and questions, as we strive together to see God's Kingdom manifest on earth as it is in heaven.
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Shalom to you and your home.
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What if the Kingdom of God isn't only a future hope but a present reality you can actively engage with today? Join me, David Huotari, as we explore this intriguing concept and more in our latest episode. Together, we'll embark on a spiritual journey through the Gospels, contemplating Jesus and His Kingdom amidst the noise of modern life. We'll start by reflecting on the opening verse of Genesis to understand the eternal nature of God's Kingdom, challenging the notion that our life in this divine realm begins only after death.
This episode doesn't just stop at reflection; it calls you to action. Discover how the creation narrative parallels the transformative power of God's light, not just in the universe but within your own life. We'll discuss the Gospel of John's portrayal of Jesus as the Living Word and consider the privileges and responsibilities we hold as citizens of this divine realm. Finally, with love and passion, we'll explore how to spread God's Kingdom through love and connection, inviting you to engage with this divine culture that truly transforms lives. Tune in and embrace your role within God's Kingdom, learning and living its values today.
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Shalom to you and your home.
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What if embracing the culture of God's Kingdom could completely transform your spiritual journey and relationships? Join us as we unpack the profound significance of living under God's Kingship and contrast it with familiar political systems like Republics, Democracies, and Dictatorships. This exploration reveals that God's Kingdom is more than just a promise for the afterlife—it's an active and dynamic way to live right now. We’ll reflect on Jesus' teachings in the Gospels and discover how they consistently center on this powerful theme, inviting us to become citizens of the ultimate kingdom.
Our conversation also takes a practical turn as we discuss the art of maintaining balance through work, rest, worship, and play. Find out how intentional time management can enrich your spiritual well-being and strengthen relationships. Navigate with us through the challenges of existing in both the natural and spiritual realms, where even amidst battles, the forces of darkness are losing ground. With a spirit of gratitude and a plea for divine revelation, we encourage you to anticipate a powerful manifestation of God’s presence in your life. Join us as we align our lives with God’s Kingdom and invite clarity and guidance on this meaningful journey.
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Shalom to you and your home.
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Unlock the depths of Kingdom culture and spiritual growth with our special guest, Dr. Bill, a revered mentor with a remarkable Apostolic gifting. Dr. Bill brings a fresh perspective on understanding the essence of Kingdom life through a Scriptural lens. Our conversation dives into the crucial role of the king in shaping culture and the importance of educating children within this framework. We also explore how forgiveness and breaking generational cycles can transform lives, guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ. With Dr. Bill's structured approach to Bible study, we aim to uncover the profound implications of scriptural words in Jesus' life and prepare to venture into the broader aspects of Kingdom living, including cuisine.
Embark on a spiritual journey as we explore the richness of spiritual peace and joy, elements that define our Kingdom inheritance. Anchored in Romans 8:6 and Colossians 3:15, we discuss how a peaceful mindset can transform the spiritual atmosphere around us. We delve into the joyous union with the Lord, drawing from Nehemiah 8:10 and 1 Corinthians 6:17, and examine how love, joy, and peace form the bedrock of Kingdom values. Dr. Bill sheds light on overcoming life's challenges, emphasizing the foundational love for God and others as we seek spiritual growth and transformation. Join us to learn more about embracing God's grace in our journey, and connect with our community for further resources and support.
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Join us in a transformative journey as Dr. Bill guides us through the profound nuances of Kingdom culture, distinguishing it from traditional church norms. Unlock the mysteries of how God’s Kingdom is first established within us before it manifests externally. We dive into the realm of becoming kings and priests, discussing the critical path from being called to chosen, and finally faithful. This exploration is not just about faith but about evolving into a mature spiritual being, capable of embodying true kingdom values beyond conventional religious boundaries.
In another enlightening segment, we dissect the powerful dynamics of grace and long-suffering, pivotal attributes of Kingdom culture. Learn how grace is both the subtle influence of God on our hearts and its tangible expression in our lives. Through captivating stories, like those of Corrie Ten Boom, we'll illuminate the significance of divine timing and preparation. Embrace the essential qualities of mercy, truth, and goodness, while recognizing the serious implications of rejecting God's kingdom. Engage with our community, share your insights, and reflect on how these teachings resonate in your life by connecting with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com.
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Discover the profound journey of spiritual growth with our insightful guest, Tracy Perez, a gifted teacher with extensive pastoral, prophetic, and apostolic experience. Tracy guides us through the fascinating concepts of "Olam" and "Eon," representing eternity and ancient wisdom, and how they bridge the realms of the physical and spiritual. Together, we explore the delicate harmony between science and spirituality as key to achieving a holistic understanding of life. Our conversation highlights the divine connection that flows through scripture, likened to the sound of many waters, and challenges listeners to appreciate the sacred balance between ancient traditions and contemporary faith practices.
Imagine a world where anxiety and gratitude cannot coexist—this intriguing notion is central to our exploration of spiritual teachings and historical practices that promote peace. By reflecting on the wisdom of the Desert Fathers and Celtic saints, we delve into the transformative power of quiet solitude in nature as a pathway to divine consciousness. Tracy and I discuss the possibility of a new reformation within the body of Christ, one that honors ancient ways while embracing the transformative teachings of Jesus. Through powerful biblical examples, we invite you to consider a broader, more profound connection with the divine that transcends the material world.
Finally, we share personal stories of those who have embraced faith amidst challenges like severe autism, discovering peace and unique spiritual sensitivities in the process. Inspired by the teachings of the early church and St. Augustine, we emphasize the power of living in the present and trusting in faith to achieve rest and fulfillment. As we conclude, we invite you to embrace your potential as world changers, aligning with spiritual principles to impact global transformation. We express our gratitude for your journey with us, encouraging you to share your experiences as we collectively seek spiritual growth and peace.
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Tracy Perez joins us with an apostolic anointing that's truly inspiring. Together, we embark on an exploration of the spiritual and natural realms, challenging the misconception that these realms are separate. Tracy shares captivating stories, including those of his son Connor's spiritual experiences, to reveal how these dimensions intersect, urging us to rethink how spiritual truths integrate into our daily lives.
The conversation continues by reflecting on the Mount of Transfiguration as a profound example of realm overlap, where Jesus, Elijah, and Moses coexist in light. Through this, and other biblical stories like Jesus walking through walls or on water, we highlight the true permeability between realms. With the Hebrew word "olam," we unlock concepts of ancient and eternal truths, connecting these themes to the idea of ancient paths from Jeremiah 6:16, inviting a deeper understanding of accessing spiritual realities.
Finally, we explore the hidden presence of "olam" and its New Testament counterpart "eon," unraveling their meanings and implications for both current spiritual life and eternal existence. These discussions paint a picture of God's presence as both a mystery to embrace and a reality to live by. As we prepare for the journey ahead, we're eager for listeners to share their thoughts and questions, encouraging engagement through lifearoundthefire@gmail.com. Exciting revelations await!
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Discover the transformative power of aligning with God's Kingdom culture and how it can redefine your life. Imagine a world where your words resonate with divine purpose, shaping not only your reality but also those around you. This episode promises to illuminate the profound differences between a kingdom and a democracy, unraveling how the sovereign rule of God himself infuses every aspect of life with righteousness, peace, and spiritual order. Through spiritual rebirth, we are invited to let go of worldly habits and embrace a life that mirrors the supreme culture of God's Kingdom.
Listen as we explore the exhilarating journey from receiving to giving, where the power of spoken words becomes a vibrant channel for manifesting God's will. Envision your words infused with faith, vibrating with divine power to transform your life and bring heaven closer to Earth. We'll reflect on the joyous purpose found in serving others, emphasizing the incredible authority that faith holds, as illustrated by the healing words of Jesus in Luke 7:10. Our conversation aims to inspire a community of servant leaders who prioritize servant leadership over self-serving tendencies.
We close by encouraging you to fine-tune your spiritual communication, becoming an effective conduit for God's Kingdom. Through intentional prayer and listening for divine guidance, you'll learn to speak words of healing and change, impacting situations both near and far. Join us in fostering a community grounded in mutual support and spiritual growth, where we embrace our roles as servants and speakers of faith. Feel free to reach out, share your thoughts, and be part of this transformative journey, as we invite you to connect and grow together.
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What if the values and teachings of Jesus could transform not just your life, but the world around you? Join us as we explore the profound possibilities of living out the kingdom of God on Earth. In this episode of Life Around the Fire, we focus on spiritual growth, inspired by Jesus' call to manifest God's kingdom here and now. We eagerly anticipate insights from our esteemed guest, Tracy Perez, who will guide us in making the invisible realm of God's kingdom visible in our daily lives. Discover how embodying God's values and practices can lead to a profound transformation in your spiritual journey, as we delve into the historical mandate to extend God's dominion and function as His kingdom's colony on Earth.
Experience the awe-inspiring power of God's love, a love that surpasses even the most profound human connections. We'll discuss the immediacy of God’s presence and how we can actively participate in the unfolding of His kingdom. Through scripture and personal experiences, we are called to open our hearts with child-like curiosity, ready to embrace new spiritual awakenings. Whether through scripture or shared stories, this episode encourages you to reflect God's power in every aspect of your life and engage with our growing community. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect and share your thoughts with us at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com.
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What if knowing about Jesus isn't enough? Join us on an intimate journey from skepticism to an encounter with the divine, as we uncover how truly knowing Jesus can transform your life. In this episode, we unravel the layers of His identity, exploring the significance of His many titles, including the Prince of Peace from Isaiah 9:6. Discover how embracing His peace can bring order and calmness to our chaotic lives, and learn how centering your life on Jesus through prayer and reflection can help you live as a citizen of His kingdom, manifesting His peace in your everyday actions.
Dive into the profound dual nature of Jesus as both the Son of David and the Son of God, a cornerstone of faith and salvation. Through biblical teachings, we emphasize the transformative power of Christ's love and wisdom, inviting you to connect and grow in community. Listen as we celebrate the life-changing guidance of Jesus, the wonderful counselor who leads us towards spiritual growth and accountability. As we embrace His love, wisdom, and unity, we encourage you to share your insights and continue spreading God's love in the world.
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Shalom to you and your home.
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Letting go of preconceived notions regarding this current Wave of God's Presence and demonstration of His Kingdom is a wise thing to do.
I know it can be challenging.
Being nostalgic of how things once were can often be skewed by our selective memories and romantic idiosyncracies.
Things are going to be and look different because the plan and purpose of God is unfolding with an emphasis on the "ing".
This Part 2 of our Introduction emphasizes that very point.
So, unbuckle your seat belts and get ready for a radical change of mind and a change of ways... things are developing more and more as we speak... Kingdom Come!
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Shalom to you and your home.
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Bob Dylan sang the absolute truth when he cried out, "You're gonna have to serve somebody... well, it might be the devil or it might be the Lord... but, you're gonna have to serve somebody."
Who we allow to be our God/god will determine our focus and our abilty to behold and become.
We become like the object of our affections/attention.... Beholding and becoming.
We are empowered to behold by the Source/source beholding us.
We are the ones who allow the relationship to exist.
Who do we all to behold us?
When we are in relationship with God and receive His loving embrace we are empowered to behold Him more and more and live as citizens in His Kingdom.
Jesus is the Way/Door and Holy Spirit is here to teach us how to walk like Him.
Over the next several episodes we are going to be looking at the culture of God's Kingdom and what it means to be citizens born-again spiritually intio it.
Things are escalating concerning the Wave of God's Presence on planet Earth.
Get ready, get ready!!!
Editororial Note: David made a faux pas. He used the phrase Magna Carta but called it Magna Carter.. woopsi... LoL!
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Shalom to you and your home.
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We have the opportunity to change the way things happen on planet Earth.
The Way is though the Life of Jesus.
It's much more than a cute slogan.
It's the very Word of God, The Creator of the Universe.
Jesus is Central to all of Life.
It happens as the result of us being born-again spiritually.
We become one of His Ambassadors and we can literally impact our world with the Kingdom of God and it's culture.
The knowledge of the glory of the LORD will cover the Earth just as the waters cover the Sea.
We get to be part of that.
Being A Peacemaker is the type of people we are designed to be.
Let's take a deeper look into that very thing in this podcast episode.
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Shalom to you and your home.
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In the beginning "The Big Bang" was the Explosive Sound of God's Word.
Love caused creation to "Explode" onto ther scene.
Unity was at creations core.
Peace was the atmosphere of the Universe.
Jesus is the Word.
Jesus is Peace.
Jesus is Unity.
Jesus is Love.
Jesus is The Great I Am.
One more time... Let's talk about Jesus!
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Shalom to you and your home.
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If the outer appearance of our life looks good but inside we are crumbling we need a transformation of the inner man... who we really are as a spirit.
Jesus came to deliver us from the bondage to our old self-centered nature.
Jesus cuts us free from carrying around the dead, rotting corpse of our fallen nature.
He delivers us from the inside out
That's what this episode is all about.
Let go of the old and enjoy the new life found in Christ...
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Shalom to you and your home.
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I was in a busy hotel lobby attending a conference once when sudenly I realized I needed to find a restroom very quickly.
So, in my haste, I notices a sign that said "Restrooms" ...I darted into the first door I found.
The only thing was that it didn't look like any other men's room I had ever been in before.
It had mirrors with different types of lighting and a couple of lounge chairs and no urinals.
I went in the wrong door.
Instead of the men's room I went into the ladies room.
Wrong door.
In life we have all taken som wrong "doors" that have led us into wrong places.
Jesus is "The Door' and He leads us in the True Way.
This podcast episode is all about "Jesus, The Door"!
The invitation is to come inside and see!
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Shalom to you and your home.
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If I focus too much of my attention on other people or myself I find that life becomes more and more filled with frustrations.
Feeling out of sorts seems to get more and more prevelant.
My attitude becomes more and more negative.
Beholding and Becoming is a powerful principle of life.
We become like what or who we focus the majority of our time on.
We want and need to see miore of Jesus!!!
Jesus being Central... He's my Focus.
We have committed these next few podcast episodes on primarily Jesus... Who He is, what He's done and doing as well as what He will be doing.
Jesus in the morning, Jesus at noon-time, Jesus in the evening... Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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When people hear your name mentioned what is their immediate thought concerning who you are.
Who you are in their eyes might not match who you think you are.
Does it matter to you what people think about you?
Is what they think true?
We've been led by Holy spirit to highlightiJesus Christ in these current podcast episodes.
He wants us to have a fresh vision of Who He really is (was and is to come).
He is in the process of setting the record straight because alot has been said about Him and not all of it is true.
So, grab a snack and sit down and enjoy yourself while we declare the greatness of His name!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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It's so easy to slip into the mindset of pop culture and make living on Earth all about us as individuals
Individual rights seem to take center stage.
However in the end it's like two ticks trying to suck blood from each other... It's empty and leads only to death.
The core or center of anything determines its quality.
The True/Abolute Core/Center of Life is meant to be Jesus Christ/Yeshua HaMashich.
We can then draw from Him.
He gives us His Eternal Life.
For the next several episodes we are going to extol the name, attributes, and presence of Jesus and the high honor it is to be called to follow him in a living and real realtionship.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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This episode is loaded with high octane material.
It is considered by some to be rather unnerving.
Regardless, it is something that needs to be spoken and we're going to speak it out loud and on purpose.
It's past the time for us to think about growing up and truly serving the LORD.
This whole thing called LIFE is all about Him abiding in love with His people.
He doesn't want us settling for second best.
He wants us to have the very best and that is Him.
He is center stage.
Get ready to have your hair blown back... You've been advised.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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We've all been children at one point.
Many of us have gone through some of lifes significant changes.
There comes a time when we grow up.
Some people fight the process and wind up looking pathetic like an off-putting joke.
However there are others who yield to the process and become fullyh mature.
We are emphasizing that on a spiritual level in this episode.
So, grab a snack, listen up, and see what happens next.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
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It has been said that a "Word in Season is like Aples of God in Settings of Silver".
Some words just need to be written.
I read an old letter the other day and in it I found some of those Words of Gold... written in an old letter to someone else grant it not to me first.
Yet, the words have changed my life.
I'm goin to be sharing a few of them in the next few podcast episodes.
I hope that do to you what they're doing to me.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Subscriber-only episode
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One day you think God is a million miles awy.
Then God pulls the spirutal curtain back and blows you away with how close He is and has been the whole time.
God is surprising individuals, churches, office buildings, state capitols, nations, and entire continents as He begins to pull back the spiritual curtain one more time.
This time is the biggest surprise yet.
Get ready.
I mean it... Get ready.
Because ready or not here He comes!!!
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
To know about someone is one thing.
To meet them is a whole other thing.
That is so absolutely true regarding God.
That's why He is pulling back the curtain between the spiritual world and the physical world and giving us a greater glimpse of Who He really is and what He's really like.
Get ready because it's happening whether we believe it or not or even like it or not.
He is going to show us more of Who He really is before He comes back.
He's doing this because He loves us.
He doesn't want us settling for second best!
He is returning in the flesh just like he was resurrected from the dead.
He's alive and He is coming back in the flesh to set up His 1,000 year reign.
After that... The End!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
We have a large backyard with a creek running through it... It's our "Urban Meadow".
Our bedroom,/studio/office overlooks the backyard's natural beauty
But, we also have a large window with full length curtains that we draw for privacy and it also helps keep the hot and bright sun from heating up our living space.
However, we like to pull back the curtains from time to time and let the outside and inside become one (even though they were previously seperated and we couldn't see the outside activity).
In God's plan He is pulling back the curtain that seperates the spiritual world from the physical world because it's within the scope of His purposes to do so at this point in history.
We'll be looking at that along with a few other things related to God opening Himself up in the next few podcast episodes.
So, enjoy and stay tuned...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
People who know me know that I don't like to be late or stuck in traffic.
I like to be on time and I don't like waiting or not moving if I'm in control.
Enter God.
His timing does not always match our expectations of how and when things should happen.
After all, we meet in a building on Sundays at a particular time with His Name or cause above the door and we expect Him to show up on time and be there while we're there and leave when we lock up and go home.
He doesn't do things in that order.
So, we've begun to seriously follow Him and his leading... His timing.
Let's take a look at the conclusion of this mini-series on the Ways and the Waves of God and capture a few insiights we can apply to our lives as He continues to reveal more and more of His Presence and Kingdom to us and through us.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Letting go of things we have control over makes some people very uncomfortable.
Fortunately God cares more about developing our character than He does in appeasing our comforts.
It's been said there are even times in which, "God will afflict the comfortable while He comforts the afflicted."
Being filled with God involves letting go of us controlling every aspect of our lives and the lives of those around us.
God wants us to have Spirit-empowered self-control.
Being drunk or high is a cheap substitute for being filled with God.
Getting drunk or high is from the outside in.
God fills us from the inside out!
God doesn't settle for second best and He doesn't want us to either.
My goal is to be continuallycontrolled by and filled with Holy Spirit.
I encourage you to make it yours, too.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Saying something is from God when it's just a man-made show is far too prevelant these days.
I think it's better to say, "Things have been rather quiet in my world lately."
Instead of just making something up in order to keep some type of following impressed with us.
I want people to be impressed with Jesus!
The reason this is such a brief podcast episode is because God has been rather quiet for a few days recently in my world.
Before Holy Spirit really got a hold of me I would to try to make things happen because, after all, that's how things are built aren't they?
Not the Kingdom of God.
So, I will be relatively quiet for as long as things are quiet in my world.
When that changes you will know the reason is God and not religion.
I hope that is as refreshing to you as it is to me.
Shalom to you and your home!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Relationships are at the core of what God has, is, and will be developing.
God is the Creator of this whole world of relationships.
No wonder He spends so much time dealing with it.
The first half of His 10 commandments involve our relationship with Him while the second half address our relatioships with one another.
The 2 greatest points wrapped up in His written Law can be summed up this way: Love God with your whole heart and love your neighbor like yourself.
So, we have devoted another episode to this whole aspect of relationships as they pertain to our ability to participate (or not) in this WAVE of GOD!!!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Is it "wine" or "whine"?
Which one is it?
It's all in how you say it and hear it.
That's communication 101.
Relationships...
Relationships are a mixed can of nuts.
When relationships are good there's nothing like them.
When relationships aren't there's nothing like them.
Relationships are at the core of eternity!
Relationships are vital.
Let's take another look at this part of God magnifying His Presence.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
If you've wondered whether or not you will ever erxperience the powerful things of God and His Kingdom like you've heard other people talk about but it's not happened or happening in your life or where you live...
GET READY, GET READY TO COME UP AND START LIVING OUT YOUR NEW IDENTITY AND PURPOSE IN CHRIST.
The answer is, YES!!!
The TIME is NOW!
Because "NOW" is the TIME of the KINGDOM OF GOD!!!
GOD DWELLS IN THE NOW.
NOW IS ETERNAL.
God qualifies you because He Chose you for LIVE with HIM FOREVER.
YESHUA qualified you at the cross, resurrection, ascension, and HIS soon return.
You are His because He wants you to be His.
HE LOVES YOU.
Don't tell Him you are useless when you're not.
You have an identity and purpose.
Let's live it out together!!!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
The "Basic" aspects of relationship with anyone (especially God) are good and very essential.
However, getting beyond the basics is where things start gettting even more intersting.
I love the basics about life with my wife.
But, I really love it when we get deeper and more involved with each other and life together.
The same goes for relationship with God.
So, this is where we are going to be parked for awhile... Moving into the deeper relationship water... Getting beyond the
Kingdom basics... Life in the Here and Now.
Kingdom Come!!!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Identity refers to our understanding of who we are.
Purpose refers to our understanding of our role in contributing meaningfully to our families, communities, and society.
The Way of seeing these things radicallychanges when our relationship with God and His Kingdom/Realm become our highest priority.
It is God gives Who ultimately gives us our understanding of who we are and reveals to us how to live when He (not self, sin, or someone else) is the Center of our Life.It's time to start living Life via a Higher Realm... The Kingdom/Realm of God!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
You are going to be filled with God's Spirit and His power is going to flow to you and through you.
Get ready, Get ready...
Come on up!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Get ready, get ready!
It's time to "Come on up" and function in our true identity and the dunamis of our being immersed in the Holy Spirit.
We are using "Ephesus" as our first example of what happens when a group of people get "baptized" in the Holy Spirit.
The correlation to the world we live in today will be very interesting and life transforming if we let them.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Have you ever found yourself just being negative about everything?
I have.
I was there for about a week just a couple of days ago.
The last thing on my mind was God's Kingdom.
His plans and purposes were right there with His Kingdom... not on my list of thinking about things.
Earth and all of it's negative ways were occupying my mind.
I felt lousy and my attitude was either following or it was leading my feelings.
I couldn't really tell the difference.
Until...
In the deep quiet recessess of my heart I, more quiet than silence I heard God ask me, "Are you thankful you're not a stumbling drunk today?"
There was truth... I actually was thankful for being free from the bodage of alcoholism.
I began giving thanks... OUT LOUD.
In that pit of negativity I began to give thanks... OUT LOUD!
The atmosphere began to change along with my mood, thinking, and feelings.
In this episode we're going to be looking at the power of GIVING THANKS OUT LOUD!!!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Sometimes even good things can be messy...
The breath of a newborn baby... Childbirth
A barn full of healthy oxen... Ox droppings.
Glorious demonstrative waves of God's Presence and Kingdom... Demons shrieking out, people weeping uncontrollably, laughing, trembling, falling into trances, speaking in tongues, swooning under God's power, etc.
Folks, get ready for things to take on a whole new appearance for awhile... God's Presence and Glory tend to create quite a stir.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Trying harder using our own limited ability to do good and live right is more than exhausting ... It's empty, meaningless, and in the end it leaves a peron hopeless and without having any real relationship God and others.
Being empowered by God's Spirit life to live His Way as citizens of His Kingdom is a life growing in love, joy, peace, patience, faithfulness, and self-control (not mere self-help).
Letting go of the hot dog called our old self and past way of living and instead laying hold of the T-bone steak of a Spirit-filled life is a no brainer!
Yet, there are times when even a good change seems daunting because it is unfamiliar.
Holding onto the inferior just because it's familiar is nothing less than bondage in the end.
God has called us to be free from our past way of living and allow Him to escort us up to function in a higher realm... a higher way of doing things.
Things look different the higher one gets.
God wants us to begin functioning in His Kingdom realm before we die.
We are sharing some of how to see the cords cut that hold us down that are attached to an old way of living.... actually an inferior way of living.
God wants the best for us because He is worthy of the best!
He has designed us to be consumed by and demonstrate the best.
Yeshua HaMashiach ... Jesus our Messiah is THE BEST!!!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Have you ever been hurt by someone so deeply that you vowed you would never trust anyone like that ever again?
I have.
I had also forgotten all about it until one day I noticed a pattern in my life that was problematic involving intimacy in relationships.
I had developed some type of calloused or abscessed area around some of my thoughts and emotions.
Itwas creating a negative impact on my behavior im many of my adult relationships.
I needed heavy amounts of drugs and alcohol in order to allow myself to be open and affectionate.
However, that complicated matters due to the lack of boundaries and impaired judgement in sexual activity.
I was either too hot or too cold when it came to my style of communication.
The same filtered into my clumsy attempts and failures at developing a relationship wit a Higher Power.
It all stemmed from an undealt with inner vow that I made in my youth.
The affect of the unforgiveness created a a desensitized area of my life.
I lacked the abilty to feel.
It wasn't until that inner vow was dealt with and forgiveness was given that I became free to experience God's forgiveness and His love.
His love was there... I just could accept it or feel it.
Inner vows might seem rather childish or harmless on the surface.
Undealt with, they can produce years worth of relationship issues with God and with one another.
God helps us experience freedom from the negative affects of inner vows, lack of trust, and unforgiveness.
Let's let the Helper help us!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Letting go of things that hold us down involves embracing trust.
Trust is at the core of living above our circumstances.
Circumstances aren't able to control us when we place our trust in the ability of God to demonstrate His Kingdom to us and through us providing the necessary power to change our environment... the very atmosphere in which we live is transformed into the ethos of the Kingdom of Heaven.
The plan and purpose of God for Earth and Heaven is a relational thing.
Trust is central to all healthy, loving relationships.
Without trust there is no love.
Love never fails.
Trust is very important for us to express to God and to one another as we grow together in love.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Growing up spiritually involves us learning how to live as citizens of the Highest Realm by allowing ourselves to place our trust in God and follow Jesus up above our circumstances and become aquainted with the ways of God's Kingdom Realm of Heaven.
We don't need to wait for some future date or after we die to live life from the Realm of His Kingdom and limit ourselves to the emperical realm of life on Earth.
We are going to be exploring some of the things that enable us and also hinder us from "Co-operating" with God and the Way He does things in his Heavenly Realm.
This is where the privilege and responsibilty benefits of growing up and maturing come into play!
Boring is for boredom... Real living and authentic liveliness is found in the Kingdom of God!
Come on up and let His Glory come on down!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Far too many years I was caught up in living in only one realm... The Physical Realm.
Not only is it limiting to ones potential to only live in the Physical Realm... It's not even the Highest Realm available for us to live in.
The Highest Realm possible to live in both now and in the future is the Realm known as The Kingdom of God or The Kingdom of Heaven.
also, for too many years I have allowed myself to be governed by the opinions of other people.
I was, in many respects, a people pleaser with an painfully awkward inferiority complex.
Several months ago I thought I heard the LORD say to me, "Come on up and I will cause my Glory come on down."
I didn't want to say or do much about what I thought I heard because I really didn't trust God or myself enough to act on it... The fear of man choked it out of me.
As my "go to excuse" for doing nothing I would typically say I am a man concerned with "balance."
And I am.
However, I have used the word "balance" as an excuse to do nothing at all that might cause people to think less of me.
Thank God for the reality of His "sanctification" process!
He doesn't leave us stuck in our past.
God has sanctified me.
He has freed me up from the crippling fear of man and a horrible inferiority complex.
I will be expressing in the next few podcast episodes some of the ways God is leading me to "Come on up" and actually do things together with Him.
His desire is to do the same with you... Uniquely in relationship with Him.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
If following Jesus only meant that I was going to clean up my thought life and some of the words that came out of my mouth this whole thing would be a pretty shallow religion, at best.
However, we're not talking about a religion.
This is about relationship with God, each other, and as functioning citizens of His ever expanding Kingdom!
Jesus didn't call us into a "self-help" program.
He called us to become citizens of a dynamic, eternal Kingdom that involves functioning with Him as Co-Operators using His amazing power and authority throughout eternity... Starting now!
I have recently made a commitment to God to start "swinging for the fences".
I want to hit some grand slam home runs.
I will be a risk-taker.
I will walk in radical faith, hope, and love!
I've lived in the shallow end of life.
I might make some mistakes but I will make them in an attempt at being obedient to His high calling and His Word!
It's time to venture out into the the deeper levels of living according to His good pleasure!
Come on up, so his Glory can come on down!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
I believe many of us have been taught not to see in the realm of the spirit.
Our ability to envision things is stunted because of this in many areas.
Seeing things like God sees them is part of what transpires when we are born-again.
We are given the ability to begin "seeing/perceiving" the activity in the Kingdom of Heaven.
God wants us to be able to see things with Him!This episode is an encouragement for you to let go of fear, guilt, shame, and unbelief and enter into the calling and freedom to see visions and dream dreams that are from Him concerning some of the things He wants us to do now!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
All of us have at least once or twice needed to lean back and take a long, slow, nose full of air just to calm down.
Love knows how to breathe in deeply through the nose in order to excercise patience.
Love is patient.
Love is enduring and long-suffering.
Love doesn't just impatiently tolerate things.
Love has long nostrils.
It can take in deep a breath and keep things in perspective while waiting for results to change positively in the future.
We are called to be people with long nostrils... LoL.
Let's take a closer look at what this is all about...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
God's Presence is the basis for all true fellowship and unity.
That's what this podcast episode is all about...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
The cicada is an insect that lies dormant for 17 years and when the time comes for them to emerge, they come out en masse.
Timing...
The Presence of God can seem non-exstant for many years and suddendly when the time is right He reveals Himself in a very significant Way.
Timing...
We are living in a time in which God is revealing Himself (again) in a very significant Way.
Timing...
How we respond to this revelation will determine how we go about living our lives throughout eternity!
This episode is devoted to the "timing" of Gods ways and waves.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Perfect love casts out all fear.
Perfect trust casts out all unbelief.
We can't be full of unbelief and anxiety and love and trust at the same time.
We are the ones who choose.
There's a realm that is greater than the realm of fear and unbelief... It's the realom of God's Kingdom.
He is teaching us how to walk in His Kingdom just like He walks in His Kingdom.
We are on a journey of growing up in the areas of love and trust.
Beholding and becoming ... More and more like God!
Support the Show.
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Funny thing... I like things that are natural ... I love nature ... I love little children ... I love good times with friends and family.
However, I have this hunger to experience and be involved in more... the supernatural.
I'm not alone.
So, under the guidance of Holy Spirit we're going to be devoing the next 3 episodes, including this one to the mysterious ways of God and our involvement in them both individually and as groups of people.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Trust is foundational to all things.
Without trust, there is no love.
Without trust there really is no reason to do anything.
Even sitting on a chair requires trust.
God trusts Himself... that's where it starts.
Trust is in the very air/ethos of God's kingdom.
It's one of his "Ways".
Trust is also intrinsic to worship.
When Satan tried tempting Jesus to worship him he was really saying, "Trust me more than your Father and I'll gladly give all of this world and its riches to you."
We are looking into the "Way" of trust in this episode... Come on up and see!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Experiencing the freedom and joy of being free from the heavy weight of living a life of discouragement is nothing less than divine.
Providing someone with the positive motivation and attitude of having the true courage to do something they thought was just wishfull thinking is divine as well.
Encouragement is actually an attribute/way of God... God, by nature, is encouraging.
We live in a world that is often filled with people trying to cut one another down.
The Kingdom of God is not like that.
Through relationship with God and His Life in us we can be a people of encourement... giving courage to one another to continue to pursue the vision in our hearts.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
This episode offers a brief update involving an accident our host, David Huotari, expeinced a couple of months ago.
What started out a simple sore knee turned into a 3 1/2 hour major plastic surgery that was done to repair his knee.
The good news is He's feeling better and back in the studio.
The even better news is the stuff God taught him while he was "out of commission" for the past two months.
So, without further delay... Come and get it!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
This episode will provide you with an introduction into a very significant aspect of spiritual growth.
After awhile we need to not only understand but put into practice things that are more than just looking at how things once were or how they might be someday.
The Kingdom of God is now and it is at hand.
We are called to function as citizens of that Kingdom in more than ethical ways.
We are called to demonstrate the supernatural dynamics of the Life of God in a natural, tangible way and supernatural way.
We are called to live out what we know.
The meat is in the doing!
Fath without works is dead.
People who are filled with the love of God, consumed by His Spirit will do exploits in the here and now as well as throughout eternity.
We are going to grow up, take risks, and do what we have been talkning about.
God will be glorified as we are united in what we do and acknowledge that we are vessels and He is the Source.
However, as vessels, we are involved in doing things beyond our previous comfort zone (and I'm not talking about programmed evangelism).
Acts of the Kingdom being lived out as we undrstand and exhibit the ways of the LORD as His waves of glory continue to crash upon us.
These are the days!!!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
There's nothing fancy about this podcast episode.
In fact, it's rather simple and sincere (childlike).
Things that make our heavenly Father smile when we try learning His ways aren't necessarily polished and prestine.
It's like a clothesline production put on in the backyard while the grown ups watch as kids express themselves without a lot of bells and whistles.
God loves it when we try learning new things and ways concerning Him and His Kingdom.
That's what's going on in this episode as we recorded an attempt to call 120 people from around the world to take a few minutes and out loud and on purpose declare the greatness of our God and our loving devotion to Him at 2:00pm EST on May 20, 2024.
When we do things like this , especially together, unique and powerful things take place (even if it's on a shoestring budget).
Sometimes things happen right away.
Other times down it's the road when we least exoect it.
Either Way, God is so good and His love endures forever!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Out loud and on purpose.
There's something powerful about what we say out loud and how we say it that has a transforming influence in the world that we live in.
Our spoken words are messengers of either life or death.
We have been given the ability, in many cases way more than we may think concerning a very powerful thing at the very tip of our tongues.
With that revelation in mind we are calling for a 120 people, filled with the Spirit of God, to declare together at 2:00pm EST, today, May 20, 2024 the greatness of the LORD out loud and on purpuse.
God is One and His love endures forever!
Let the knowledge of the glory of the LORD cover the Earth just as the waters cover the Sea!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
The story of the boy who cried, "Wolf" is a classic tale of not saying things just for the sake of trying to get attention.
Eventually people stop believing you.
The same can take place concerning things pertaining to God and His Kingdom and what's happening on the Earth.
We can become harderned to hear things because we don't want to be suckers or fools again and again.
However, the danger in becoming too hardened is that we can miss the call to experience the real thing.
Like the story in the boy who cried, "Wolf!"
God is doing something unique right now and He wants us to be part of it collectively not just as individulas.
Let the past be the past and be available to experience the present.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Money, Realtionships, and Power/Control are the trifecta of lifes great challenges.
We'll be looking at those three things and how the play into us "Gowing up before we grow old."
As we mature in these three key areas of life our collective ability to function as one and live in unity escalates us into higher dimensions of living.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
One day it's sunny and the next day it's snowing.
That's how it was growing up in Minnesota.
One day Berlin was one city and the next day it was two (East Berlin & West Berlin).
That's what it as like growing up in Germany.
One day Jesus left planet Earth alive and ten days later Holy Spirit comes here in His name.
That's what life is like on this planet.
Changes take place on this planet.
We are in a big one right now.
Get ready, get ready ...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
I want to know more about God, how He works, and how He moves.
I want to know the ways and culture of His Kingdom.
I want to experience those things together with other people who think and feel the same way.
Those statements are being said by more people now than at any other time in world history.
What does that mean?
I believe it means God is going to give to those who have those desires in their hearts exactly what they're asking for.
That wave is a wave of God and it is a Tsunami, rapidly coming upon our planet Earth.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
This is a very timely and important announcement!
A major shift has taken place in the Spirit realm.
We are going to be seeing major demonstrations of God's very Presence in the Earth accompanied by the power of His Kingdom and His Glory in an ever increasing Way beginning in the next few days, leading into the next several weeks, months, and years.
He is calling us to join together and seek His Face in lieu of the new phase of Kingdom events we are being introduced to.
We're asking for a total of 120 people to join in unison with us at 2:00pm EST on May 20, 2024 to call out to God declaring "We want Him above anything else to consume our lives for His glory and manifest His Presence to us and through us regardless the cost. We are His living sacrifices!"
Hear more details in this and the following 4 podcast episodes.
Selah...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Wouldn't it be great if everything that made up our secret thoughtlife were broadcast?
Are you kidding?
That would start WWIII.
However, if we have the mind of Christ it would be "Kingdom Come"!
GOD HAS BEEN , IS, AND WILL CONTINUE TO REFINE OUR THOUGHTLIFE.
OUR HEART IS THE WELLSPRING OF LIFE.
IT'S ONE OF THE KEY COMPONENTS IN US BECOMING ONE.
HOW WE THINK ABOUT ONE ANOTHER IN OUR MINDS MATTERS.
This podcast episode is an encouregement in allowing the Spirit of God to elevate the way we see one another.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
We've all had the experience of being involved in an uncomfortable setting where people are upset with each other.
It's awkward and unfulfilling to say the least.
How about what it feels like to be in a group of people who actually like one another and see eye to eye.
Their's a unique sense that if we could bottle that feeling and sell it we would make billions.
God wants us to live in a loving unity.
He's most comfortable in that setting.
God has set standards for living life as citizens in His Kingdom.
One of those standards is for us to love one another and grow up in the ways of focus and unity.
We are going to be parked on relational unity with God and with one another for a little while.
So, kick back and relax.
Get ready to experience newer and higher ways of living as citizens of the Kingdom of God.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
There's something special that takes place when a group of musicians hits a groove and becomes, for lack of a better word, one.
They don't even need to use words.
They can simply feel and know where things are going and progressing musically.
The same type of thing, but on an even highere level and greater power and deeper influence, takes place when a group of people mature in the very stature and nature of Christ.
They collectively behold (focus) on Him and become (unity) like Him.
A group of mature magnifying glasses (if you will) focused in on Yeshua/Jesus and collectively magnify His name in all the Earth and becoming like Him... Doing the Stuff.
Also, learning new things can be enjoyable if we have a child-like, humble heart willing to admit we have been wrong or we just don't know it all and have it right all of the time.
Learning how to do things with our Heavenly Father in the realm of His Kingdom is also going to be a focal point for us going forward.
Come on up (together) and see what's happening in the Kingdom of Heaven.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
After spending 23 days in the hospital undergoing treatment for a knee injury I have walked away with some refreshing insights into living life in the Kingdom of God.
We'll get back to our previous series after this podcast episode.
I hope you enjoy this glimpse into how the realm of Kingdom living operates.
Shalom to you and your home.
Support the Show.
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Have you ever experienced the "joy" of a slip/trip and fall?
I have.
Just recently...
I had an accident (slip/trip and fall) and landed with all my weight on my TKR (total knee replacement).
Boom!!!
Fortunately nothing broke and no hardware was damaged.
However, I have a very swollen knee and a severely bruised ego.
I will be out of commission for the next few days.
However, We're providing a brief intro in this episode on our next topic: "Focus: Collectively Beholding And Becoming More And More Like Yeshua/Jesus."
Let's keep one another in prayer as we continue on this journey of collectively becoming more and more like Him in all aspects of our lives.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Let's be truthful about the lives we live and the experiences we have in living them.
Being truthful and original is the meaning of holiness.
God is full of Truth and He is Uniquely Origonal.
He is Holy.
In fact, one of His names is, "Holy".
"Hallowed/Holy be Thy Name."
"Holy, Holy, Holy, is the LORD God Almighty."
We are able to be holy/truthful/original like Him because of the blood of Jesus.
Free from being a phony, liar, or pretender.
We can now be holy because His blood makes us holy.
The Holy Presence of God is what I want to see manifest in my life and in the life of the gatherings I'm a part of.
Doing things and trying to make them feel or sound like God has never been an interest of mine.
Like sex, religion can be a big seeler.
I'm not interested in buying or marketing either of those things.
I'm interested in real/holy intimacy.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
I need to be reminded periodically that I can sound critical when I get impatient.
Folks, I realize that I have begun to sound a bit critical on some of the previous podcast episodes.
I apologize for that and ask for your forgiveness.
I was wrong to let impatience and frustration with much of modern day organized evangelicalism and the "religious right (and left)" world get the best of me.
My focus needs to remain on the heart of our Father.
His Kingdom has and is going to come and the things that are pleasing to Him have and will be done in the Earth as it is in Heaven.
Yeshua/Jesus prayed for it, other have prayed for it and we are praying for it to come to pass.
God has, is, and will completely answer those prayers.
In the meantime, I need to grow in patient endurance and long-suffering.
Two very important components of Agape/Love.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
The intentional pursuit of God and the fullness of His Presence is a deep passion of mine.
I want to experience and know Him in every way and on every level possible.
I want to host His glory and see His Name glorified throughout the Earth.
I'm hanging out with other people who want the same thing.
This is the part of our journey so far ...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Fear, not hate, is the opposite of love.
Hatred comes out of fear.
The same goes for envy, strife, pride, adultery, murder, stealing, etc.
How much of what God has provided for us to experience has been held back by us being afraid ... not so much the fear of God, but, the fear of man?
We are going to be addressing that issue along with a few other germain ideas in this episode.
So, tune in, turn on, and drop on by ...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
There are a few times in each generation when a Rhema Word given by God comes with an international impact and anointing.
What you will be listening to in this podcast episode is one of those Rhema Words.
Our guest, Tracy Perez, has been given the green light by God to unpack some things that are very relevant and necessary to be heard and recieved.
You will want to listen and find out exactly what is meant by that statement.
We are living at a time in world history when major shifts (political, economic, cultural, and spiritual) are taking place across the nations.
We are in the midst of a reformation.
God is in the process of doing some things that no human being has ever to experienced or witnessed.
"Get ready, get ready", says the LORD of Hosts.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
What if all of the things you secretly and openly thought about became visible and came to pass?
What would that world look like?
Everything Yeshua/Jesus secretly and openly thought about is becoming visible and will come to pass?
What is that world ultimately going to look like?
We have the opportunity of being in covenant with Him now and participate in seeing what's on His heart develope into the desires that are on our hearts as well.
Becoming unified with others in the way Yeshua/Jesus envisioned is part of what is happening in an ever increasing way across the nations.
Loving our enemies and praying for them is part of us becoming one with Father as He is one with the Father ... only God's Love and Life can accomplish something like that throughout the nations.
However, it's happening as we speak!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Loving on the level God loves requires something more than self-effort.
Being good is different than being like God.
We are called into living life from a new anf higher realm ... the Kingdom of God.
Jesus taught and still teaches His followers to walk like He walks and in so doing love like He loves.
God's love is eternal and is the highest charactweriatic and quality of His Life.
Let's let Him teach us how He is acccomplishing and establishing His love in those of us who are born-again into His Kingdom Life.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
You are in store for some paradigm shifting insights.
God has ways of finding us and restoring us regardless of how lost we are or how far we have fallen.
God also has dimensions of His Presence, places, and depths of His love that he is interested in providing to us.
However, we have certain limitations.
He has actually placed them there as ways for us to grow and gauge our level of relationship with Him and with each other.
We have those certain limitations but we have the capacity to grow.
How we grow and what we grow into is important.
He wants us to expand our capacity to experience Him and His love.
He is zealous for us and deeply in love with you and me.
He wants the best for us and He is the Best.
He doesn't want us settling for second best.
In these next several episodes we are going to be looking at how He has designed certain ways for us to grow in experiencing His love and His Presence/Glory in the process of us becoming one with him and with each other.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Being a group of good, hardworking people is a good thing.
But God has not called us to just be good and to work hard.
He has called us to be like Himself... the same way Yeshua/Jesus lived and modeled that Life for us.
The only way walk in that and to be united in that, demonstrating that quality of Life is to be in a covenant relationship with Him and with one another.
It's more than us trying to be hardworking, good people.
In Him we are new species... a new breed... a new creation.
Beyond self-help.
Beyond collective-soul groups, cults, or covens.
Covenant people ... The Body of Christ.
That's the focus of this podcast series.
This is what nature itself has been groaning to see.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
God answeres prayer.
God has been , is, and will completely answer the prayer Jesus/Yeshua prayed as John recorded it in chapter 17 of his Gospel.
We are living in the day and the hour in which there is an escalation of spiritual activity going on concerning that prayer.
The Body of Christ around the nations is being called upon and given revelation how to experience true unity like Jesus/Yeshua prayed for.
It will take place.
Once it is complete He will be coming back to Earth and "set up shop" for a thousand years.
After that ... The End of the old heavens and old earth and on with the New Heavens and New Earth.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
This wraps up our series on Neuroplasticity and how that affects our relationship with God and with each another.
The basis behind everything we do here at "Life Around The Fire" is found in relationship (with God and with each another).
The changes that take place as a result of how we think have significant impact on how we relate in all aspects of our life.
In this episode we leave you with some healthy and helpful things to "think" about.
Shalom to you and your home!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Who really takes the time to think about their thoughts?
Don't they all just seem to happen without thinking too hard to have any of them?
However, our thoughts are very powerful things.
They affect the way we live our lives.
What are we doing about controlling our thought life?
What can we be doing about improving our thought life?
Why bother to care, unless...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Sometimes our thoughts can run wild.
There are times if people could hear my thoughts it would would more than likely be problematic.
Our thoughts carry quite a bit of power regarding how we feel and what we do.
We are addressing that area of our life in this podcast series.
In this episode we will be emphasizing one of the primary ways we can capture and change our thoughts.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
It's not size of the dog that's in the fight that matter most.
It the size of the fight that's in the dog that really counts.
Kaye Beyer is a widow who is (older than 30).
She is as active in the Kingdom of God as any 30 year old man I know.
She is a currently a missionary that had been in over 90 countries during her past 45 years touching lives for Jesus..
You will be inspired and challenged to here her share.
Go and make disciples.
The "meat" of God's Word is in the way we live it out and do the stuff. concerning his Kindom.
The "meat is in the street"
This testimony is all about the glory of God being revealed in the streets
His glory enmpowers us to be His witnesses.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Our thoughts are things we rarely stop and think about.
They seem to just happen.
However, our thoughts are very important and play a significant role in how we act and feel.
The affect all aspects of our reality.
We have been given the ability to change our minds and in so doing change our ways.
In doing these things we in many aspects actually change our environment and how we live.
We will be looking into more of that in this episode.
So, come on in ...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Wayne Gretzky, one of hockey's greatest of all times said about his key to greatness, "Skate to where the puck is going to be, not to where it has been."
Sometimes it takes a new way of looking at things in order to make the changes necessary to get to next level in life.
That's what we'll be looking at in this podcast episode.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
It's an old cliche but it's true ... "The Church belongs to Yesdhu'a/Jesus and He want's it back!"
The LORD recently told me, "I'm tired of looking in on gatherings where I'm unrecognizable, unwelcome, and uncomfordable while the people in charge use my Name on their business ledger and marquis."Change is happening as we speak.
We get to be part of it!!!
Let's take a look at how some of this is unfolding ...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Dr Caroline Leaf in her book, "Who Switched Off My Brain?"writes, "Thoughts can be redigned when they are consciously captured."
In 2 Corinthians 10:5 (The Message) Paul writes, "We use powerful tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ."It requires a radical transformation and co-operation in the retooling process of becoming a collectively heralthy, maturing Ecclessia... United Body of Christ!
God is doing it and it shall be done in the Earth as it is in Heaven.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
There is more to being united than being in agreement with each other.
True unity is both supernatural and natural.
We need them both in order to experience the Truth.
The first part is the supernatural then the co-operation from us in the natural comes next.
The process of neuroplasticity and our minds being transformed along with our brains becoming detoxified and new pathways of thought established is amazing.
We invite you to look into some of these things with us as we explore them in this episode.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
How we see each other is a very important aspect to how we treat one another.
Becoming truly joined together can often sound more appealing than the actual process involved in seeing that become a reality.
Divorces, organizational divisions, and social chaos are just a few examples of what takes place when the process of growth is aborted and people become disillusioned.
We are looking at the neuroplasticity involved in our spiritual growth into becoming One New Man under the Headship of Yeshu'a Hamasiach/Jesus the Messiah.
Come along for the journey ... It's well worth your time!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
It's good to be back from a much needed break.
I love it when I don't need a vacation from taking a vacation!
It was a "Staycation"... one of the best kind.
I got renewed by spending a lot of time with my wife, children (grown) and hanging out in my woodshop (not the woodshed) playing with some of my new big boy toys.
However, we are back looking into the whole aspect of Neuroplasticvity, God, a Spirit-Filled, Renewed Mind and how these things factor into us becoming United in God's Glorious Presence in the same Way God is One Right Now.
Let's take a look at where we are and where we'll be heading...
Onward and Upward!!!
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Sometimes the format around here is "there is no format."
We can't put God in a box much the same as we can't contain the wind in a box.
God doen't need to fit into any mold we might want to put Him in for the purpose of our need for secutity and control.
Of course having an order to things can be refreshing and important.
However, there are other times where "going with the flow" concerning our relationship with God and with one another is equally refreshing and important.
This episode is a taste of one of our afternoons with the Ruach Hakodesh and one of our friends, David Martin.
We hope that something in the things we captured on audio will find their way into your "gizmo" ... your heart/spirit and provide you with a sense of God's Life and Love.
The "Wind" of God is blowing and we are going along for the ride.
Hoist your sails and catch His Wind moving across the nations...
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Far too many people feel stuck in the rut of daily life.
The pressures of the cultures we live in can at times drain us from the dynamic, creative, joy of living.
We have the abilty designed within us to change problems linked to being caught in the sameold, same old problems and turn our thoughts into a solutions.
Neuroplasticity is a realty that provides a source of real encouragement to those of us willing to take the time to apply ourselves to the processes of change.
That's a sifnificant part of what we are focusing in on in this podcast series.
The other aspect is how this affects us as groups of people both large and small.
The abilty to experience healthy relationships with one another... without being phony or religious.
We hope this will be a source of encouragement to you as you continue to grow up before you grow old.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Years ago "science" taught us that our brains formed our minds. Our minds, in turn, formed our thoughts and our thoughts formed our perceptions and feelings which made up our reality.
However, research has now shown that our brains, without the life found in the blood, contain no personality... nothing more than gelatinous, powerless, computers.
The power of the brain is the life that is found in the blood.
Our brains don't have personality without the power of life.
They can be programmed and reprogrammed, changed, many times over depending on the condition of the soul/mind.
The power needed to turn the computer on is found in the soul.
The condition of the soul is based upon the type and quality of the inner core/spirit which provides the quality behind the juice/soul/mind which provides the type of dynamic power to begin the process of programming and exhibiting persona to the brain which is the control center for the rest of the body.
The process of these unique life forms that have undergone a Divine Impartation of God's Eternal Life into their born-again spirit is the focus of this podcast series.
Becoming One New Man (a collective number of people made up from every tongue, tribe, and nation) is an accomplishment that can only be produced by the power of God's very own Spirit.
Our part in co-operating with God in this process is known as santification or divine neuroplasticity.
This is Part 4 ...
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Shalom to you and your home.
Two farmers were standing at the barbed wire fence seperating their property. The younger farmer looked at the older farmers beautiful farmland with its bailed hay fields and corn crops and said "God sure has been good to you. Look at all that beautiful land." The oldtimer smiled with a stem of hayseed coming out from the corner of his mouth and looked the young man square in the eyes and said, "You should have seen it when it was just His."
The moral of the story is: God is all powerful and the Earth is His and His creation. But we have a part to play in developing what we are privileged to be responsible for.
God will be God and He will do what is He said He will do.
We are His creation and it's our privilege and responsibilty to do our part.
We don't want to try and reverse the roles.
We don't play God and try to do His part and expect Him to do our part.
This applies to us renewing our minds (neuroplasticity).
It takes both external (God) and internal (self-discipline) stimuli to develop the highest level of change in our experiences of life.
That's the focus of this episode.
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
We are all capable of being changed and helping one another experience changes in life.
Change is important but not always easy or even welcomed.
We are all mostly creatures of habit.
Routine and dependabilty provide a type of security and peace for us.
However, some habits are not healthy.
Some habits (routines) are not only time bandits they are harmful and deadly.
Neuroplasticity is the ability we have been created with in order for us to change in those areas.
Some of our perceptions of reality can actually produce prejudice, division, and even violence among ourselves as humans.
The magnified manifest presence of God is the biggest way that we become subject to major neuroplasticity (among other things).
We are going to be unpacking this important aspect of our lives as we continue to focus upon us growing up before we grow old.
Stay tuned and see where this whole thing winds up!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
If you thought Part 1 was good...
You going to hear more ... except deeper!
Mark this down: You Are Going To Be Hearing About This Topic On Headline News Across The Nations In The Very Near Future.
We are living close to the end of this Age.
The Day of Redemption is drawing near.
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Shalom to you and your home.
Keep your eyes and ears open.
This seemingly obscure topic of people becoming One New Man In Christ is going to become one of the hottest topics on planet Earth very soon.
This is a true sign of the soon approaching Day of the LORD.
This is Part 1 of a Special Edition 2 Part Series.
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
What does neuroplasticity have anything to do with God?
What does God have to do with neuroplasticity?
Who does God think He is?
What is neuroplasticity?
What does any of this have to do with Divine/God-Like Unity and His Presence?
Finally, who cares?
We plan on address ingand answering those questions along with a few others in this series we've entitled: God's Purposes Behind Neuroplasticity ... Hosting His Magnified, Manifest Presence.Bon Apetit!
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
The same One Who said, "Let there be light" and then light appeared.
Is the same One Who said, "Let them be one, even as We are one".
That One is none other than Yeshu'a/Jesus.
Becoming a mature person involves becoming mature in a group of people.
The development of a mature, collective One new Man is one of the major items being addressed on planet Earth as we speak.
It's been our emphasis for the past several episodes.
In this episode we will begin wrapping up the topic of "Growing Up Before We Grow Old".
It's amazing to be alive at this point in time and to to be a part of His Story!
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Being secure and confident in our relationship with God enables us to be accepting and encouraging of all different types of people that make up the Body of Christ.
The Presence and Love of God create true unity.
Becoming a mature, united community of believers is a powerful demonstration of God and His Kingdom in the Earth.
Kingdom Come!
Will of God, be done!
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
One of the best things that many of us who have been part of the "Christian Production" of Yeshu'a/Jesus that has been sold and distributed throughout a huge potion of the World is to admit that much of it has been nothing more than our human energy creating emotional manipulation, using lights, misty smoke machines, and hypnotic speech calling it the "Presence of the LORD".
No wonder there's so much division, hypocrisy, slander, gossip, sex scandals, and thievery.
We've called some"thing" "God" that isn't God.
We need a fresh revelation and visitation of our real Heavenly Father in our midst.
The glory of Yeshu'a being manifest in our gatherings by none other than God, The Ruach Hakodesh.
God is the only One (His Glory/Presence) that transforms us into being One as He, God, is One.
This is actually happening in many of us as individulas.
However, His presence is going to become longer, deeper, wider, higher, and more powerful in groups of people than at any other time in world history.
This is far beyond "hopeful'.
This is a fact!
"
GOOD NEWS" ... We can change our minds and change the way we've been doing things (that's what the word "REPENT" means) "THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS AT HAND!"
Nothing can stand in the way of our Abba/Father revealing His love for us and to us.
The love that is securely found in Christ Jesus/Yeshua Hamashiach ... The Head of His Body (the Ecclesia/Called Out Ones/The Church).
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Shalom to you and your home.
Neuroplasticity, Prayer, Meditation, Scriptures, and the Presence/Glory of God.
What do all these have in common?
How are they relevant to us maturing spiritually and becoming united as One New Man in Christ?
Come and see ...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Doing things from a higher realm... The Kingdom of God.
That is what it truly means when we "pray" to God.
We do things froma higher (Kingdom of God) realm on God's frequency.
The Holy Spirit acts upon things in accordance with the Father's heart, The Name of Yeshu'a/Jesus, and our prayers and declarations... in Earth as it is in Heaven.
For example: "Let there be light ... then there was light."
United prayer is like muliplying magnifying glasses into one big magnifier.
Let's learn how to do things from a higher realm using the frequency of God.
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
What we think, what we say, and what we do impact not only our individual lives but the lives of those around us.
What and who we are joined to matters greatly.
What causes you to be joined together with other people, places, and powers?
What in the world does me praying have anything to do with how you live your life or how we live together?
It's absolutely true that prayer goes on all the time whether we call it "prayer' or not.
It's really how we pray and who we pray to that matters most.
We're going to be unpacking this issue of prayer for the next few episodes.
So, stay tuned and hopefully we'll all grow up even more in this vital area of community life.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Unity can take on the culture provided for by the power of human beings, demonic entities, or God.
It's often easier to believe a lie that we've heard a thousand times than it is to believe the truth we've only heard once.
We can become conditioned to living a sub-standard lifestyle because we can't believe that there's anything better or different for us.
God is revealing His Life giving, Light bearing Truth to us concerning how we can live in unity with Him and with one another.
Living in the Light of God's Truth is the highest of form of Life and Love that is available.
Why settle for for second best when God has provided the best for us?
The action it takes ion our behalf is in us believing how He has provided that relationship Life eternally for us.
The rest will unfold...
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
What we think about and what comes out of our mouths concerning God and one other carries a lot of weight (both good and bad).
International wars all begin with thoughts and words.
Peace and love both begin with thoughts and words.
Creation began with Thought and Word.
What will happen when the only thoughts and words we have and share with one another originate from the life of God within us?
We are going to find out ...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
I think it would be an amazing sociological experiment to have our thoughtlife broadcast outloud for 72 hours.
It would be another eyeopening experience to hear God's ThoughtLife broadcast outloud for 72 hours.
What would it be like if our thoughtlife lined up with God's thoughtlife?
I think that's what was going on with Yeshu'a/Jesus & God, The Father.
I believe that's wheatwe're headed into.
Stay tuned for more!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
We are inviting God to transform us, by His Spirit, into being a uniquely united Kingdom of men, women, and children who love and follow Yeshu'a Hamashiach/Jesus the Messiah!
It takes God to perform the type of unity He desires to dwell together in us and with us.
How is that going to take place?
That's what we're parked on for the next several episode.
So, Bon Apetit and Bon Voyage.
To God be all glory, honor, and power!
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Developing and maturing into being a divinely empowered COMMUNITY (common unity) of men, women, and children who know, love, and follow Yeshua/Jesus is a supernatural sign of God's existence, love, power, and the magnificent glory of His Presence.
It's going to be our focus in this podcast for the next several episodes.
BECOMING UNITED AS GOD MAKES US INTO ONE ... PERFECTLY UNITED IN HIM AND WITH HIM AS HE IS IN US AND WITH US!
BO YESHU'A BO ... COME KINGDOM COME!
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
It's one thing to be mature as an individual and grow up before I grow old.
It's another thing to develop into being one as a husband and wife.
It's yet another thing to grow up as a family, a community, a country, a nation, or ulitimately a Kingdom.
An Eternal Kingdom under the Eternal King of kings and LORD ot lords, Yeshu'a HaMashiach ... The Kingdom of God, our Heavenly Father!
That's where we are headed ... and it require supernatural Life to accomplish it.
It will be done ... In Earth as it is in Heaven.
Why?
It is the will of God.
It's His good news and His good pleasure.
Yeshu'a prayed for it and it will come to pass.
In fact, I can feel the fusion heat right now ... Praise God!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Because of what Yeshua/Jesus accomplished for us we no longer need to fight to get victory over life's problems.
We can now fight the good and different fight because we have victory from evil and in light of that, we now have victory over life's snares and difficulties.
We have been given the same power that raised the dead body of Yeshua/Jesus up from the grave ... resurrection Power/Life/Glory.
We'll be hearing a lot more about"Glory" coming up in the next several podcast episodes.
But, for now, "Growing Up Before We Grow Old" (Part ...LoL).
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
God has provided for us a way of Life that is extemely powerful and full of love.
We are held back from living His Way of Life by getting sidetracked with regrets, disclaimers, excuses, and/or procrastinations.
Being frre from those things opens up a lot of space that can be filled with faith.
Faith is the conductor and conduit through which God manifests and releases the glory of his power and love... the Life of his Presence!
We're going to be looking into the ways in which we can activate and walk in the resurrection power of the Life of Christ within those of us who believe.
Stay tuned ... We may have problems but God has solutions!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
We're taking a brief detour from part 2 of our series on Ephesian chapter 3.
Sometimes it's important for us to let other people know that we are going through a hard time ... even if you're a leader.
In fact, if you're a leader it's more important for you to model how to listen to a person who is saying they are struggling as well as at times telling those around you that you're having a hard time.
The Church is meant to be a community of people that serve as a spiritual training center, spirutal hospital, and spiritual army (to name a few).
This is a public service reminder that it's okay, even healthy, to let people know when you are not doing or feeling well.
Growing up together ... connected in love.
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
"What if"?
"But ..."!
"If only ..."
"I'm not trying to say ..."
"I don't want you to think ..."
" I can't speak for them but I ..."
Regrets and diclaimers ...
How much free space would I have in my inner life if I got rid of regrets and disclaimers.
For those of us who are born-again ... recipients of new Life in Christ ... the nature and mind of Christ ... I have some great news.
You have been set free from needing to live a life filled with regret and making disclaimers.
We'rer gpimng to look at how that is made possible in your life in these next 2 podcast episodes..
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Life is not lived in a sterile environment.
The Scriptures weren't written in a sterile, ivory , tower.
Life is lived in the "real world".
The Scriptures were written in the "real world".
Supernatural Life can be expressed through us right now, really.
Let's be real people with real supernatural life and power flowing through us into a "real world" that really needs to expeience a real relationship with a real, loving God!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Realizing we have a new access to new ways of doing things because of being transformed through the new birth into citizenship of God's Kingdom can take a while for it to actually sink in.
The reality that I am a new creation by the Life transformation that transpired as I entered into covenant with Yeshu'a is divine and mind expanding.
Like we said, it takes a while for it to really sink in.
Some of us have actually been taught that the power of miracles, signs, and wonders is dead and gone.
Or, we've that we need to wait until we die and "Go to heaven" when we can utilize the power of God's Life in us.
And some of us have been clueless over the whole thing.
Well that's going to be changing as we continue to allow God to be God to us and through us and stop putting limitations on things simply because of our old belief systems.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Discovering the spiritual power found in our identity in Christ is an amazing reality to embrace.
Living a sub-standard exhistance and calling it normal is so often a far cry from who were really are designed to become even more.
Many of us have lived in the dark or have been held down for various reasons as it pertains to knowing and living in the power of resurrection life now.
Even the foretaste of what is coming exceeds our abilty to explain with the words we have.
That's why the only language that often suffices is only found speaking in glossolalia (aka tongues).
We are endued with power and possess great riches right now.
WThe fact is w are in training for eternity.
Eternity starts now!
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
An Evangelist someone who proclaims news.
An Evangelist is not a "Super Christian" or "Celebrity Spokesman"
An Evangelist is also someone who brings the Truth and the Good News of God and His Kingdom.
"Sister" Sheila will be presenting why and how that is necessary and relevant to the world which we live in today.
Part 2 of this 2 part series involves several stories concerning God' s dynamic power He displays and how He saves and transfoms lives when people turn from their sinful lifestyles unto Him, the Author and Perfecter of Divine Love and Forgiveness.
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Power Evangelism ... Once you've acknowledged that miracles, signs, and wonders are still some of the ways God demonstates the reality of Who He is, then evangelism without that type of power is like pushing a car on ones own energy vs it being super-powered with an energy source that is able to cause your vehicle to perform far beyond the limitations of your own human strength.
Yes, God can get things done without us.
God can and has used a donkey to talk on His behalf.
He has used a stick that was poked in the water causing an axe head to float.
But is that what He really wants to use to manifest His Kingdom?
No!
He wants to use us as naturally, supernatural people of His Kingdom.
He wants to use us to capture the atention of others so that they can experience a born-again relationship with God.
He wants us to function in His power just like Jesus did.
Jesus is still doing it... through the Ecclesia ... The Church ... His Body of believers on Earth.
"Sister" Shiela covers a topic we all need to hear ... It's called: Power Evangelism.
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Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
(Editors note: Tracy inadvertantly used the phrase "grace gifts" as found in Romans 12 ... He wanted y'all to know that he made a mistake in using that phrase in the context of Ephesians 4 ... woopsi, you can all lay down your stones now, he's not a false teacher or prophet ... LoL).
Who am I and where did I come from.
Every "Prophet" has that question to answer.
Tracy Peez, a man who functions as a bona fide Prophet of God is in the house and his topic is on The role of a Prophet in the Body of Christ/The Church.
Let's hear what he has to say in this last out of 2episodes.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
(Editors note: Tracy inadvertantly used the phrase "grace gifts" as found in Romans 12 ... He wanted y'all to know that he made a mistake in using that phrase in the context of Ephesians 4 ... woopsi, you can all lay down your stones now, he's not a false teacher or prophet ... LoL).
Who am I and where did I come from.
Every "Prophet" has that question to answer.
Tracy Peez, a man who functions as a bona fide Prophet of God is in the house and his topic is on The role of a Prophet in the Body of Christ/The Church.
Let's hear what he has to say in this 1st out of 2episodes.
Support the show
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
I love the fact that one of the truest signs of spiritual maturity is no longer having the need to be recognized or getting upset if someone else got more attention and credit for a job you did.
Being spiritually mature as a community of Christians involves each of us daily crucifying our need to be an independent, rugged, individualist.
We don't need Supermen or Lone Rangers.
We are all called to grow up as one seeing Jesus/Yeshu'a exalted as One Head of His Body ... the Ecclessia ... the holy ones ... the Church.
In this episode we're going to look at a man we know litle about except He was gifted by God, born-again of God's Spirit, follower of Jesus, and a good friend who loved to encourage people ... Tychicus.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Holding unforgiveness and bitterness in our hearts is a lethal combination across the board ... relationships suffer, health is affected, spiritual life withers, mental well-being deteriorates, families seprate, and communities war against each other , etc.
Forgiveness brings about "sozo"; total healing in all the areas mentioned above.
Dr Bill opens up with some personal and scriptural examples of being forgiven and forgiving.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
The word/name "Teacher" dials up a variety of images for many of us ranging from Kindergarden - PhD.
What is a "Teacher" as defined in Scripture?
Why do we need one/them?
Dr Bill Hurst is a great person and prime example to have in the studio to help us unpack the title and function of Teacher as it pertains to us growing up before we grow old.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
If a picture is worth a thousand words how many words is a story worth?
There's something refreshing about hearing unsripted interviews being conducted by a skillful interviewer and a uniquely gifted interviewee (sometimes leaving that person feeling awkward and a bit shy ... that's what makes it "real"and "relatable").
Life rarely comes with a script.
Also, just because a person has the microphone doesn't make them flawless.
We like to keep things on the level around here ... you'll even find moments of that in this interview.
The "imperfections" allow all of us to understand everyone is a Work In Process And Progress".
You're going to love the candor, humor, and heart of worship that comes through in this interview and Jessica's story.
Shalom to you and your home.
Support the show
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Everyone has a story to tell about their life.
Some folks are good at drawing that story out.
Lonnie Lane is one of those people.
She has years of experience in teaching, writing, and interviewing people from around the world.
She's good at what she does.
She took me, your garden variety guy, and drew things out of me that actually carry some meaning and are fun to listen to.
So, grab a snack and a beverage or keep on driving your car (or whatever else you're doing) and enjoy an open book look at someone elses life ... you just might find something meaningful in listening to it that you can apply to your own life.
Also, let's open up and share ourselves with one another.
It's a great way to pass the time.
Selah ...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
This is Part II of PastorJohn Trask letting himself be"unmasked" ...
An Interview With A Pastor, John Trask ...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
I love sincerity.
I don't have any appetite for hypocrisy ... even though I've been a hypocrite.
I just got tired of having two minds/ways of living ... one mind was for what I wanted people to see and the other mind was for how I really was as a person when no one elsle was around.
There's something about "being real" that is both freeing and refreshing.
Pastors are notorious for keading double lives. ... hypocrites.
Not all motivation behind that is nefarious.
Nonetheless, the fact remains that we reproduce after our own kind.
If the "Church is full of hypocrites" then "Houston, we have a problem."
John Trask, was and is a Pastor.
He holds the office of Pastor.
However, he has gone through a metamorphisis in that whole area.
These next 2 episodes are going to be more experiential oprn talk with some practical demonstration as to what a Pastor is and isn't.
It's more than academics ... and I love me some academia!
It's an exposition of how life really is and it can become.
I encourage you to take a few moments and listen in as we contnue our look at "Growing Up before we grow old."
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
You're familiar with hearing the term, "Apostle".
What is the meaning, function, and value of an "Apostle"?
Who really cares and why should we?
Find out.
Is this going to be religious or some wild-eyed emotional fluff?
The answer is, No.
Is it going to be informative, inspirational, and applicable?
Yes.
Come on in and check this episode out and decide for yourself?
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
H.A.L.T.
Hungry (and bored)
Angry (and bored)
Lonely (and bored)
Tired (and bored)
STOP/HALT
Don't try to go on with your day if you are in H.A.L.T. mode.
STOP/HALT
If you're not filling up the empty spaces in your day with The Light and Life of God the only other alternative is sin and death.
There is no vacuum.
Something or someone will fill the void.
Nature abhors a vacuum .. it will be filled.
Thunder is the filling of a void created by the intenseemergy of lightning ... the sound of a void being filled.
Children of God are Children of Light.
Light and Life filled with Love ... there is no void.
That's what this podcast episode is all about...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Learning to have true, intimate, and eternal relationships with God and with one another is at the core of the all covenants God has ever cut with mankind.
The New Covenant/Testament in the blood and body of Jesus is the crowning expression of God's desire to live in love and peaceful harmony with us eternally and for us to enjoy that same love and unity with one another.
We are called and chosen to be joined as one eternally.
However, we still live in this age of time and space where evil is arouind us and trying to seperate us from God and one another.
How we understand and address that is vital.
Knowing what the real problem is and who's the real enemy is the only way to both protect us and overcome in those battles.
That's where we're at in this podcast and in this episode.
So, shalom to you and your home and selah as you listen to this episode...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
To walk strong and live in the love of God is not only a nice thought it's the best way to both live and be.
In Him we live and move a have our being.
Being made aware of all of the things that are available to us is a necessary understanding and practice that when demonstrated in wisdom helps us look corporately at hard situations and learn how to resolve them together.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Insecurity along with feelings of rejection and uncertainty create an air around a person that seems to invite the very things they're afraid of.
Getting left out and overlooked with those sickening feelings of self-doubt will suck the countenance of life right off a person's face.
Intimidation and unworthiness creep only to catch in your throat while you are talking or singing.
Living life off balance and on your heels feels more like mere existing rather than really living.
There is another way and it's not just through endless self-help programs and therapy sessions.
Those can be helpful options and perhaps useful to a degree.
However, the core of real help is not in self improvement.
It's actually in dying to the self-centered life and living a life focused on the love of Yeshu'a/Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit He has for you.
Stay tuned and catch the wave of The Helper.
He's calling out for you to come on in and ride the Wave of His Presence and power.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Wouldn't it be strange if one of the sweaty, work handkerchiefs taken from the Apostle Paul that were later placed upon a sick person who got healed could talk?
What would be even more bizarre is if that same talking handkerchief said, "Did you see how I healed that person with my supernatural powers?"
I realize how simplistic that sounds.
That's exactly why I wrote it.
It would be bizarre for ny person to think and say the same... "Look what I did; supernaturally."
The only way life functions best is when God is central in all ways and in all things.
The centrality and supremacy of Christ is for mature believers to meditate on and embrace in times of intimate worship of God.
It's when we recognize, experience, and agree upon the fact that it is by Him, through Him, and for Him that all things exist that our lives develop and mature as we take on our fullest meaning and purpose into living eternally together being one with Him.
He is the reason that the sweaty, work handkerchief can being used as a healing agent just like it is for anything or anyone else.
He alone is highly favored and mightily exalted to the Highest High!!!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
When do we get to do "the stuff" ,,, a guy once asked an old "church member"?
The old member asked, "What stuff"?
"You know, raise the dead, heal the sick, cast out demons ... you know, the stuff Jesus did", the "unchurched" young guy said.
"Oh, we don't believe in doing that anymore. We just study about it and sing some songs about Him", the old timer said.
"And I gave up doing drugs for this? , replied the young man.
You get the point.
Doing Church or having another One Man Show (in the name of Jesus) we watch produces spiritually immature people.
Watching the one man show (in the name of Jesus) is like watching someone else eat and saying you're full or doing more church stuff is like eating the cereal box and saying that it's just fine Ithink i'll have some more.
Thank God He has more in store for us both Now and after we die than just watching someone else eat or saying that the cereal box tastes just fine.
This episode is devoted to us "being" individuals as well as a collective group of people that are growing into Christ-likeness and actually "being" equipped to be doing what He did and is doing right now!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
There are several things that prophetic ministry provides:
1) Speaks the mind of God
2) Discerns the times and seasons
3) Provides warnings from God
4) Speaks on current stuations or state of affairs
5) Points people to the truth
We're providing a current example of that in this podcast episode.
Selah
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
With everything going on around us it's easy to ask, "What in the world is God up to these days?"
I would never venture to totally answer that question.
My pat-grade isn't that high.
However, I do know that one of His top priorities is developing/maturing and uniting/unifying the Ecclesia/Church.
The Father is busy preparing a Bride for His Son.
We, who are the Ecclesia, are the Bride of Christ.
Jesus prayed that we would be one as He and the Father are one.
God will answer His prayer.
One of the main things God is doing these days is growing us up before we grow old!
He is maturing us from the inside out (by His Spirit).
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Some things concerning us having healthy relationships can be a real mystery.
Men understanding women and women understand men.
Parents understanding children and children understanding parents.
Emloyers understanding employees and employees understanding employers.
I think that is a good starting place to explore some of the mysteries and the mystery solving of relationships among us Earthlings.
In this episode "Robert" is going to open up and share some of the helpful insights and truths he has discovered while attending the Higher Educational Institute Known As "THE SCHOOL OF HARD KNOCKS" in hopes that it will help us solve some of the mysteryies we have found in these relationships!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
As a kid do you remember getting a "side ache" while you were running for a long time or playing real hard?
Did you stop running or playing?
Sometimes I would.
Until ...
Until, one day I kept just decided to keep on running and the side ache went away and then I got my second wind and Icould keep on running for miles (if I wanted to).
The same type of thing happens in life when we get older ... just in different ways.
We get uncomfotable with certain spiritual disciplines because we get a "side ache" we call it quits.
It's called shot-termitus
It's most common among quitters.
The result of this condition is they remain in a stunted state of existance ... Until
Until the remedy for cure is taken by moving beyond the pain and the temptation to quit.
The pain goes away and the personal and corporate growth ensues.
The benefits far outweigh the pain.
We'll be taking time over the next few episodes to cover the spiritual growth quality we will simply call, "Until".
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
I once saw a strong, grown, man publicly sob because he just couldn't find the words to adequately express what heaven looked and smelled like when he expereinced it after a near-death encounter with God.
I wasn't transported to any heavenly realm but God did come and visit me during the course of the past 2 days and nights in a very unique Way.
I have scarcely slept a wink (and I love me my sleep time ... LoL).
I must admit that I am constrained by the love of Christ and compelled by His Presence to share with you what He has so clearly and heavily placed in my heart.
Simply and profoundly, Selah.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
In a letter that the Apostle Paul wrote to a Church in Corinth in chapter 2:1-5 he reminds these folks of something that was very important for them to recall at that time and it is very important and relevant for us to hear and recall some of those very types and things today.
The Rhema of Gods Message from the Ruach Hakodesh is as follows:
"My brothers and sisters, when I first came to proclaim to you the secrets of God, I refused to come as an expert, trying to impress you with my eloquent speech and lofty wisdom. For while I was with you I was determined to be consumed with one topic - Jesus, the crucified Messiah. I stood before you feeling inadequate, filled with reverence for God, and trembling under the sense of the importance of my words. The message I preached and how I preached it was not an attempt to sway you with persuasive argunements but to prove to you the almighty power of God's Holy Spirit. For God intended that your faith not be established on man's wisdom but by trusting in His almighty power."
When you listen to this podcast episode keep those words and that Message in the forefront of your mind.
Our Guest Speaker/Teacher, Tracy Perez, is going to present to us things that will cause us to grow spiritully from the inside out ... growing up before we get too old.
God has something unique to say to you in this Message ...
So, let's give Him the floor so that He can share His heart within our hearts and minds.
Shalom and Selah...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
I've had the privilege of sitting under some of the best teaching from the most gifted and intelligent teachers in the world.
I've listened to God speak through some men and women that made me wonder if they were aliens because their minds and hearts were so full of Truth.
Dr. Ed Bez, who just so happens to be my Rabbi here in Jacksonville, Fl at Zerah Avraham is our guest speaker, live in the studio today is one of those type of folks..
He ranks in my top 5 of all time teachers (Biblical and Non-Biblical Included).
You are in for a real treat.
Get your shoes on and get ready to apply what you learn in this episode so that we can grow up spiritually before we grow old.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Have you ever seen someone who has wasted great opportunities to succeed in life only to settle for something oer someone that was second best?
Maybe you have settled for second best?
Are you living to regret it.
We are dealing with a heavy topic in this podcast episode involving sexual immorality, lust, and greed.
This introduction will make more sense once you listen to the entire episode.
Until then ... Buckle up.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
How can a little seed from a tree eventually crack open a massive, glacial rock?
How can a little bit of yeast make a whole batch of dough rise like a mountain?
The Kingdom of God is just like that in the Earth.
It grows and we don't always know how or even when ... but it does and it is!
God is causing His Kingdom and it's growth and development known in a strong Way once again in the Earth.
We are living in very apocoplytic moments.
This whole "thing" is going to be wrapping up very soon.
When?
Who knows.
All I know is that God's Kingdom is being established and I'm going to learn how to live in it ... right now.
I'm not going to wait until I die before I start living!!!
Stay tuned and find out how we're called to be LIVING once we've been born-again with ETERNAL LIFE.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
What does an entire culture/community of givers look like?
There are no needs.
No negative competition or greed.
No lust or envy.
No strife or war.
Eternal life and love.
All of ones defenses are down and we are free to be ourselves.
That what Christian maturity in the Kingdom of God looks like!
Let's be grace-filled, generous givers of our time, energy, and money to God and to one another in the love of Christ as we are empowered by the very Holy Spirit ... God Himself!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
It's one thing to be smart.
It's another thing to be wise.
It's one thing to say you love someone.
It's another thing to actually love someone.
It's one thing to be individually Christ-like and mature.
It's another thing to be a community that is Christ-like and mature.
Guess what this podcast episode is about?
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
We are parked on the character qualities of spiritual maturity.
Gace-filled, generosity in the giving of our time, energy, and money is the one we're looking at again in this episode.
We will be emphasing the quality of God's Kingdom culture concerning grace-filled generosity one last time in our next episode.
Next on the menu we're going to take a look the privilege and responsiblity of becoming mature in our thought life as well as what comes out of our mouths.
Also, stay tuned for our special guest speakers, John Trask and also Tracy Perez coming up in the near future.
Both are mature and spitually gifted men.
John is coming back by popular demand whererasTracy is coming for the first time carrying a Word from the LORD involving dunamis and exuosia!
You're in for a real treat.
Shalom to you and your home.
Bo Yeshu'a Bo!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
It's no coincidence that the word "miserable" has the word "miser" attached to it.
Who is more enjoyable to be around, a miser or someone who is humble and generous?
Which is more powerful, greed or grace-filled generosity?
Which Kingdom is full of Life, the Kingdom of God or the kingdom of darkness?
Who is the father of greed and destruction?
Who is the Father of grace-filled giving and Life?
If you had only one choice what would you choose Greed or Generosity?
This episode highlights the character quality of grace-filled generosity.
Stay tuned extravagant giving is captivating.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Always expecting a hand-out from others is the basis of having a poverty mentality and a poor culture.
The Kingdom of God operates on the opposite premise.
We, as citizens, have our hands out giving things generously from a grace-filled heart.
You tell me which is the more powerful culture and mentality to live in?
Growing up spiritually involves us giviung our love offerings to God (time, energy, and money) and our love gifts to one another (time, energy, and money).
We operate out of the understanding that God is a God of abundance.
He has no lack in Him nor in His Kingdom.
His seed never needs to beg for bread.
We, as citizen of that Kingdom don't need for people to ask for help before we provide it graciously and generously to them.
We are quick to give.
Mature people love giving.
It means we get to give more because more is added to us.
We can never out give God!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Becoming one with and being filled with "Graceful Generosity" is where we are heading as we follow Yeshu'a/Jesus in this path of becoming more and more like Him.
Greed is not good.
Greed kills.
Garaceful Generosity is the opposite of greed.
The culture of God's Kingdom is full of Graceful Generosity.
It's packed with abundant, supernatural, love and power!
Greed is weak and inferior to life of Graceful Generosity.
Stay tuned for more ...
Support the show
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
There's an old saying that goes something like this: "It doesn't matter how high you can jump but how good you can walk when you land."
Spiritual experiences are awesome and very important.
However, life is daily and how one lives their life over the long haul is as equally if not more important.
That's what is being addressed in this podcast along with uncovering a real snare that can trip us up as we walk through life: greed.
We need to encourage one another to beware of becoming greedy.
Greed is not good.
Greed kills.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
The old transistor radios had a dial that was used to tune into different radio stations.
Each station had different frequencies they used to transmit their radio waves.
It required the listener to"tune into" the frequency of the particular radio station in order to hear what music was being played.
It's much the same when it comes to us being able to tune into and transmit "levels", "frequencies", or "vibrations" from our inner lives.
We attract and align ourselves to those things that we "frequent" in our thoughts, will, and emotions.
The Kingdom of God has a frquency that is only accessed via Jesusus Christ and the cleansing power of His blood for the forgiveness of our sins (which disrupt the frequency).
We need to be born-again (cleansed from sin) by the Spirit of God living in us in order to gain access and citizenship in the Kingdom of God.
The Kingdom of God operates in the Most High frequency... The Best of the best.
Everything else is "second best" which is actually a fancy word for the world of the dead.
We are focused on Jesus and His Kingdom in this podcast episode.
We invite you to "Tune in"!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
If you were born a fish you would swin underwater and do fishy things.
That would be your culture.
If you are born a human you would breath the air and live above the water and do things that are human.
That would be your culture.
If you were born-again into the Kingdom of God you would be a new breed and do things like God while living in human flesh.
That's where we are in this podcast series.
Things are going to continue to get very interesting so take off your seat buckles and get ready to fly!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Being beaten over the head by a book is an abusive act if not a criminal one.
Yet, people get beaten over the head by men and women who do so with their mouths using the Bible.
The abusive, harsh, legalistic words that come from the very mouths that are entrusted to speak the truth is absolutely wrong.
Our hearts go out to anyone who has ever been spiritually abused.
You are not crazy and you're not alone.
We say all of that because we are entering into a portion of the Bible that has been misused for centuries and is still being handled like a billy club.
Ephesian chapters 5 & 6 contain some of the best insights to living that have ever been written.
No wonder they have been twisted to hurt people.
The Devil wants to keep people in bondage.
He will even try misusing the very Word of Life in order to do so.
We are going to pull the mask off the religious pride of evil and set the hearts and minds of men, women, and children around the world... In the mighty name of Yeshua Hamasiach/Jesus Christ our LORD!
Love never fails.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
There are over 25 different diet plans to choose from and each one claims to be "THE ONE".
There are well over 500 different television cable channels to choose from these days.
There are more than 45,000 different Christian denominations to pick from in todays world.
The point being: There's a lot of competition for our attention and it's becoming more and more challenging to maintain focus.
Yet, we become like the very thing we focus our attention on the most.
Beholding and becoming.
Part of spiritual maturity involves us being able to maintain focus... focus on Jesus Christ.
Focus takes time, energy, and money = commitment.
Being commited to developing and growing inrelationship.
Relationship with God and relationships with one another.
We're going to take a few minutes and focus our attention in on Jesus and His Kingdom in Ephesians 4:17-32.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
The word "HOPE" can and oftn does does carry with it many meanings and ideas about life and how things happen.
Saying, "I hope I don't get some morphed strain of Covid-19" is different than saying, "My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness".
In this podcast episode you will both hear and feel what Jesus (and mary) have to say about God and His definition of "HOPE"!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
We become like what/Who we behold.
The frequency of how we vibrate and send out our signals is determined by what we dwell on and allow to dwell within us
The people, places, and things we impact and attract are determined in a great degree by the signals/vibrations caused by both what we dwell on and what/Who dwells in the core of who we are as people living out our daily lives.
Above all else, guard your heart. It's the wellspring of life.
The things that a person dwells on and allows to dwell in their heart determines who they are and what/Who they attract (and repel).
We both give and receive signals that will eventually manifest into things that come and go in and out of our lives in varying shapes and sizes.
This is as orthodoxy and orthopraxy as it God Himself.
These are some of the very things, along with the rejection of miracles, signs, and wonders for today's Church culture that the Western Hemisphere, Evangelical Religious Right Teachers have been squelching from being experienced as part of Normal Christ-like daily living.
God is Soverieignly making Himself and His Truth known in a growing Way throughout the nations.
Praise God!!!
Enough phony, bologna, weak, limp -wristed, watered down, dead religious talk about God and what they think He's like.
He is not asking permission to make Himself known, setting the record straight.
He's just doing it!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
It's quite amazing to me how one continent can have some many cultures within it.
Each country has its own unique and definite look and "feel" to it.
The same goes for the way the Kingdom of God looks and feels.
Becoming a mature, functioning citizen of this Kingdom is what these next few episodes are all about.
I'm thankful we have a Written and Spiritual Guide in how to best learn and live in the culture of the Kingdom of God.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
It's one thing to read about relationships.
It's another thing to experience one by being in it with a real person.
The same thing applies to God.
It's one thing to know about Him.
It's another thing to be in close relationship with Him in a real way.
Jesus is the One and only Way Who makes being in relationship with God possible.
Know Jesus
Know relationship with God
No Jesus
No relationship with God.
Growing beyond knowing about into truly knowing is the basis of all relationships.
Growing up in relationship with God then with one another is what we're all about here at Life Around The Fire Ministries Int'l.
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
Knowledge of and by itself is good, but too much of it tends to produce a snobbish undercurrent of superiority and arrogance.
Words and works... We need both.
Works alone tend to produce a hyped, sensensaionalist, shallow, and ignorant type of lifestyle.
Works and words... We need both.
In the Western Hemispher of Planet Earth we need more works of the Kingdom.
In the more remote areas of civilization on Planet Earth we could use more of the solid grounding affect good teaching of the Word has on a person's life.
I'm a citizen of God's Kingdom who lives in the Westrn Hemisphere and my head of knowledge is the size of a watrmelom and my body looks like a stick figure.
I repent... I'm changing my mind and I'm changing my ways...
God is the Boss and I'm the one saying Yes, LORD (not the other way around)!
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
It's okay to have high powered racing engines and be an expert on how they work.
However, if all you do is study the engine, look at it, and every once in awhile take it out and slowly drive it around the block a few times and then put it back in the garage without really driving it for all it's worth... whata drag...what fun is that?
Same thing goes for someone who knows a lot about God and His written Word but never actually experiences the power of God's Kingdom and really gets excited about His Presence being among us!
Well, were taking the car out and blowing out some carbon because "DAD" said that it was A OKAY with HIM!
We'll see you back in Ephesians chapter 4 in a little while.
BUT FIRST......
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
We'll be picking up on our tour through Ephesians very soon as it pertains to an outline provided for us concerning spiritually mature behavior.
The outline is: Being born-again, imagers of God living in us, what God does looks like as He reveals Himself to us and through us?
Who do the people who really know me see when we get together?
Do they mainly meet just a lot of me or do they first and foremost see Jesus in me and through how I walk out my daily life?
This episode serve as a segue to the second half of the euation found written in the letter that Paul wrote while awaiting trial under house arrest in Rome.
The first half is on how to find one's true identity... in Jesus Christ and relationship with Him.
The second half is: What does spiritual maturity really look like in one's daily life?
This segue episode is an important component in the Masterpiece God is creating.
Support the show
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
I am pleased to announce: "The Day of The Super Star Minstry Is Over."
No more Mavericks or Lone Rangers need apply!
You are officially "Dinasours"... creatures from a different era.
These are the days of the Body of Christ giving honor to THE HEAD... Yeshua Hamashiach/Jesus Christ !
He is front and center.
He has made God, The Father known.
He loves us completely because of our LORD making us clean, by His very own, sinless, blood shed for our Salvation!
He has risen from from the dead and has ascended to the Highest Place where we are seated together in Him and with Him.
We are His Amassadors, Bride, Sons & Daughters of God, The Called & Chosen... But, HE IS GOD and HE IS KING!!!
He has united us in His Name...
We are grown up before we grew old!
He said so!!!
Amen...
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Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Feel free to check out our wesite by typing in lifearounsthefire.com or Life Around The Fire ... We think you'll find some beneficial stuff to look at and apply to your life.
Shalom to you and your home.
People say that a picture is worth a thousand words.
And they are absolutely right!
However, a true story about an authentic transformation of a man from the inside out... That is pricelss.
Jon Trask is one of the coolest guys I have met in the past 30 years.
He has a resume that would blow you away.
But, that's not what he is sharing in this podcast episode.
In fact, John is a true example of what God is doing all across the nations right now.
He's dismantling the one man show, superstar, spiritual giant production and simplifying things so that Jesus Christ is the One being exaclted and He, Alone, is truly worthy of all our praise.
God is doing exactly what He said He was going to do through John.
He is using common man in uncommon ways... Just like Jesus with His first disciples, they were common men.
With all that being said, we have been assured that you will receive a true touch from God as you hear what comes through John's heart.
Please pardon any sound variances, background noises,dogs barking, etc.. We are a home grown studio that is operating out of our home office and it gets "campy" around here sometimes... Just keeping it "REAL"!
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
There are some things that will not happen unless we do something.
Only receiving things and having our minds focused on being needy is more than a bad habbit and poor social hygene... It's infectious and can spread rapidly though entire communities which contributes to us doing nothing.
Nothing changes if we do nothing.
Having a poverty mentality can become a cultural norm in which people learn to live in it like fish learn to living in nuclear toxic water.
Always being or feeling needy is a by product being of an oppressed person living in a whole group of other oppressed people.
The way to break it is by finding our true identity in relationship with Jesus and growing up out of that mindset into His mindset.
You and I are not bound to neediness if we are bound to Christ.
Walking in and talking in that new creation identity is important for all of us to remember to both be and do.
It's easy to forget what we look like if we don't put into practice who we really are.
This podcast is all about the place of peace in the practice of giving instead of living while wearing the identity of being a victim of always being needy.
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Being transformed and empowered from the inside out, by the very Life of God that dwells in a person, by the dynamite power of the Holy Spirit Who creates them into being born-again, alive spiritually...
That is vastly different from being a person doubling down into nothing more than an exhausted pool of failure, trying hard on their own strength and efforts to be a good, religious person yet in the end only experiencing in their inner core existence nothing more than the same sick feeling of sin and death that keeps them seperated from experiencing relationship with God's Love and His Life !
We are focusing our attention on "BECOMING "mature spiritually which involves us actually CO-OPERATING with the HOLY SPIRIT while we are living out the walk we've been learning and talking about... Walking the talk... Doing Kingdom stuff... Just like Jesus did and is still doing today!
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Being in an environment that is filled with confidence, peace, security, comfort, strength, wisdom, and forgiveness, all wraped up in true, unconditional love is almost unheard of these days.
Yet, that's the type of people Jesus has called us to be and to keep becoming more and more mature until...
Until He returns back to Earth to manifest His Kingdom in a very dynamic and everlasting way in the Earth as it is in Heaven.
In this episode we are going to be looking into the things that God has provided for us... the needed power to live out the words of truth that we have been receiving.
No longer can we be content to only consume more and more information, like only drinking more and more milk.
We are called to be both hearers and doers of the the word and the works of our Heavenly Father and His Kingdom... Eating solid food... The meat is in the street... Doing the Stuff!
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
God has never told us to "DO" holy.
He said, "BE" holy, because He is holy.
DOING and BEING are two seperate things.
We will never DO holy things without first BEING made holy (from the inside out not the efforts of us on the outside trying to change the inside by doubling down and trying harder to be good).
Holiness does as holiness is.
Also, it's impossible for anyone to just "join the Church" or join the Kingdom of God.
It's impossible...
It's impossible to DO Christianity on our own power.
But, once we are born-again into the Eternal Life of God, His Eternal Life starts growing up inside of us by the power of the Holy Spirit, Who as a result of being supernaturally born-again lives and dwells within us, as pictured in the layout of The Tabernacle given to Moses and the childern of Israel while they were in The Wilderness (getting Egypt out of them not just them getting out of Egypt).
Come on in and find out what this is all about... Becoming spiritually mature.
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Blaming our existance on being a product of our environment keeps us in a place of weakness and in bondage to the control of others.
Self-help, self-positive talk, and positive thinking using only our own willpower will never be enough to actually sustain our lives through the long haul of daily life and all that goes along with it.
We need to have a more substantial and Life-giving Scorece in the core of our existance here on planet Earth.
Enter Jesus... Yeshua... The Messiah!
He is the only One capable of providing for us True Life that is capable of growing and developing into being an atmosphere/world changer.
We can then become one who has the power to mature and in so doing impact the world in a positive way through the Power of God's Life given to us as we are born-again... Becoming Spiritually alive.
This podcast episode is devoted to being a source of encouragement as you pursue the path of becoming mature from the inside out!
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Who we are and what we're doing when noone is watching actually proves the integrity of our words.
God is God whether or not everyone is ignoring Him or you have a true relationship with Him... He's always been, is, and will be God.
Who are you and are you the same regardless of who is with you or if you are all alone and by yourself?
Who are you?
If you're confused... ask God... He'll show you and help you become that person.
We're going to be spending the next few episodes on the areas of life that reveal things we get to do as we mature in our identity in Christ... who we really are and who we really are becoming... regardless of who's watching!
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Religious control freaks are going to hate this podcast episode.
Folks who are expeiencing fresh power, significant anointing, and the magnified Presence of Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God to you and through you are going to love this and eat IT up!
So, let go of your stering wheel and get out of the drivers seat of your life.
Jesus is in charge of this vehicle and He calls IT, " Eternal Life"!
We're going to be growing up spiritually, making some mistakes while we learn to do the stuff that Jesus did and is still doing , but doing even more of IT, to us and through us because He is now doing it by the power of The Holy Spirit who possesses us and dwells within us!
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Risky business and tipping over sacred cows.
Sounds like my kind of living these days.
This podcast started out pretty safe and quite vanilla flavored a couple of years ago.
Man, have things grown and changed.
We are actually growing up.
In the process of growing up spiritually and experientially it's beginning to draw attention because it makes some people who like to be in a religious type of control rather nervous.
Some people want to believe that our job on the Earth is behave and be good and one day we'll die and get go to heaven.
That's a pretty safe appraoch at preaching and teaching about a gospel of the Kingdom of God and Jesus Christ that has cost many people their very their lives.
If all they did was behave and do good things who would try to kill them for that.
But, if they walked in supernatural power and spoke words filled with supernatural life it just might ruffle some feathers.
Even though it's not our intent nor our objective to be radical and at controversial podcast crew.
Nonetheless, we are, and at times, we will be considered radical, contreversial and maybe even crazy.
In essence we, like Jesus, are throwing down the gauntlet and saying, "Not even death, nor the threat of it, is going to prevent us from going all the through into being One New Man, One Unified Body of Christ."
We will follow Him throughout Eternity wherever and however He leads us.
We are His Beloved Bride who is a Ruling, Reigning, Blood Bought, Beauty without any Blemeshes... Ah-main and Amen!
Bo Yeshua Bo!!!
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
You know how sometimes you get the feeling that you need to hear something, say something, or do something?
This is one of those times.
I heard something, I need to do something, by saying something to you.
You came TO a place in your life that you kind of knew was potentially going to be a rasky thing to do but you went ahead and did it anyway without asking God what was going on.
You went ahead and got yourself INTO that place... pretty deep.
The battle on the inside and the outside have been quite intense at times.
Now what?
It's not, now what, but, now WHO?
Jesus is the WHO to help you with the what and pull you THROUGH.
The end of the battle is near and Jesus has come to help pull you THROUGH.
You need to FOLLOW HIM... He the NEEDLE that will pull you (the thread) THROUGH.
Funny thing, God has actually orchestrated the whole thing (even though you thought it was all just you).
TO, INTO, & THROUGH!
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Co-operating with another Life Form?
What is that all about?
It's about us becoming spiritually mature people.
Becoming more and more like Jesus Christ/Yeshu'a Hamashiach.
Becoming like Jesus involves us co-operating with God, The Holy Spirit or Holy Spirit (as He often likes to be referred to as Being... Holy Spirit... I am not the David Huotari... I am David Huotari... He is Holy Spirit).
Fish can't yoddle.
It would take them becoming another species.
Human being can't be Christ-like.
It takes us becoming another species.
We need to be born-again spiritually supernatural in order to be Christ-like.
Just like a fish would need to be born-again into being human in order to yoddle.
Maturing involves us co-operating with Holy Spirit.
He teaches us what our identity and destiny are in Christ, The Holy and Anointed One.
We behold Him to Become like Him.
We get to do the things that He does as we learn how to co-operation with Holy Spirit Who makes His home in us and teaches us all things pertaining to life and god-likeness (godliness)!
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Editor's Note: 2 corrections: 1) The Scriptures in Ephesians David said we would be focuseing on and reading were meant to stated as Epheians 1:15 - 2:10, not 1:14 - 2:10, 2) Also, David said TPC for the Passion Translatation. Instead, it's The Passion Translation TPT. (Whoever loves correction, loves knowledge. Pr 12:1). Selah
By the time I turned 16 years old I couldn't wait to DRIVE my own car!
I had READ about them all of my life (up to that point in time).
I wanted to do more than only READ about driving a car.
It was time for me to grow up and DRIVE my own car.
Reading about Jesus is meant to be an absolutely an ongoing powerful encounter with God.
And it can be.
Especially when we start to DO the things Jesus said we would DO in His Name.
DOINGand Reading.
Words and WORKS.
DOING actually is a natural process of growing up and becoming mature.
Much like actually DRIVING.
PRACTICING AND DOING GO HAND IN HAND (even making mistakes are part of growing up)!
We don't WORK for SALVATION but we most certainly DO STUFF in order to GROW UP and become MATURE!
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
The Word and The Works...
Jesus both spoke about and demonstrated the reality of God's Eternal Kingdom Realm being here, in our midst, on Planet Earth, in conjunction with the physical realm of time and space that we experience with our natural senses.
Being a mature, whole person involves us being able to see, hear, say, and do a variety of things physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually... Be whole and holy!
Spiritual maturity is a naturally supernatural reality and process that is wonderfully designed to take place with all of us who are born-again.
Unfortunately many of us have been stifled and at times stunted in our spiritual development for a variety of reason.
We're not going to be spending much time focusing on the problems and the reasons why that is the case.
Our eyes are fixed on The Solution... The Words and the Works of Jesus... Yeshu'a Hamashiach! We are set on seeking FIRST The Kingdom of God and His Righteousness knowing that everything else will fall into place.
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
What you hear in these next podcast episodes will either cause something inside of you to have a hunger for more of God in your life and becoming able to express His love through your life or this will sound like nothing more than foolish gibberish.
For others, this will not only be like a breath of fresh air but it will serve as another sign of the times in which God is revealing to us more and more of His Kingdom and His Glory while increasing the awareness of His Presence all around the world.
Jesus Christ/Yeshua Hamashiach is returning to Planet Earth rather soon and He is returning to embrace a unified Body and Bride that is fully mature.
This series of podcast episodes are all about growing up spiritually... What that means, what that looks like, how it happens, and what our part is in becoming "Mature in our identity with Him and in Him."
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
I was having dinner with some friends a few years ago when Lucy, the wife of Carl, one of the folks at the table spoke up and said, "May I tell you something and I hope you don't take it the wrong way?"
Not my favorite type of question to be sure, but I said, "Sure."
She said, "It's been my observation for some time that there are a lot of grown men walking around but deep inside they are insecure little boys."
I was pinned to my chair by her astute observation and poignant, yet keenlyaccurate, comment.
She was absolutely right.
Now, of course, the same can be said concerning grown women who are walking around like insecure little girls.
Inner maturity is often a rare commodity.
Immaturity amongst adults is a Smorgasbord.
The apostle Paul is recorded in 1 Corinthian 4:15 as saying, "For though you might have 10,000 instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers".
Fathering is meant to indicating being a mature man.
Just like Mothering is meant to be a place for mature women.
Growing up before we grow old is a real challenge in cultures that worship "YOUTH".
The cult of youth worship is the undoing of spiritual maturity.
We are going to be focusing our attention on the solution to the problem of rampant immaturity.
However, we do need to pull the covers off of the problem and expose it's pathetic nakedness and inadequacies.
That will be what we minor on.
The World we are living in is crying out to be Fathered and Mothered by spiritually mature men and women.
Our major focus will be on the Solution... Jesus Christ/Yeshu'a Hamashiach!
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
There's a difference between working twice as hard by doing something for God than allowing God To Be God and to do something to you, in you, and THEN through you.
David Wilkerson once said that God told him while he was praying one day, "David, I would rather win over all of you than you win all the world for Me."
God loves us and want us to grow up and mature.
But, He wants to show us the right way to Abide in Him and allow Him to Father us before we go out and try to do things om our own power.
God loves us and wants to include us in what He's doing.
Maturity is learning how to practice more by consciously walking with the awareness of His Presence and His Purposes.
That's where we are headed in these next 17 episodes (following this one) taken from all 155 verses and 6 chapters of the Book of Ephesians.
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
To picture a burly, bearded, grown, man sitting on the floor pouting while sucking his thumb, like a baby is an uncomfotable and rather disgusing word picture.
Yet, far too often, that is the way of spiritual life for many people.
Stuck on drinking milk, like a baby, even though it's far more important to be eating things (like meat) that make you stronger and capable of growing up.
There is"spiritual milk" and there is also "spiritual meat" (teaching and living that is more than just rehearsing the elementary basics of spiritual life and living).
Growing upI could hardly wait to get my own car, money, and place to live and become an active adult in my small town of Hibbing, Mn... USA!
How much more so concerning growing up as citizens of the Kingdom of God!!!
I want to grow up before I grow old.
We will be teaching and following Yeshua/Jesus into a lifestyle of functioning, mature citizen of His Kingdom as we move forward.
Loving Yeshua/Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Editor's note: David mistakingly said there were 673 verses in the Gospel of Mark. There are actually 678 verses in the English translation of the Gospel of Mark... Woopsi (LoL)
He came to reveal what God, our heavenly Father, is actually like.
He came to reveal what the Kingdom of Heaven is really like.
He shed His bloold so that we could be free from the condition of death and sinfulness.
He came to give us His Life, eternally.
He estabilished relationship with us to God, our Father, and made us into His children as citizens of His Kingdom.
He leads us and guides us by the Holy Spirit giving us His power.
He's coming back soon to wrap things up.
That's what happens when Jesus came, still comes, and is coming back soon to both be and do.
Praise God!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Jesus Christ/Yeshua Hamashiach continues to reveal to us that He is alive and will be alive forever.
He once told a couple a men at Capernaum to "Come and see" when they asked Him where He lived.
He showed them his home.
He is saying the samething to us today except His home now and for eternity is in another realm in the Kingdom of God.
He is saying, "Come and see... Follow Me."
That also our purpose in life is to invite people to "Come and see the Living King Jesus".
Many things happened and are still happening when Jesus comes on the scene.
But, the major truth beyond all others is that He makes Himself known because He loves us and wants relationship with people like you and me throughout eternity .
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Jesus is a pradigm shifter.
Jesus if spiritually attuned and capable of "Taking It To The Streets"!
Jesus paved the way out of situations that can easily and quickly drain us like krytonite is to Superman... We on our own simply become weak and we give up.
Jesus never fails and He is right on time!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
When Jesus showed up and still showing up, He demonstrates the love of our Heavenly Father and the Power of His Kingdom.
He came and still comes to cut covenant with us and to offer us a true, living relationship and literallybeing on good terms with THE MOST HIGH GOD!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
God keeps very unique business hours.
He shows up for work at rather unusual times (often).
Whether I believe in God or not does not prevent Him from being Himself... God.
Jesus is not a "poser nor an imposter"!
He accepts being overlooked because He can see "The Bigger Picture" and doesn't let rejection get under His skin.
Lastly, Jesus willingly to took the sentence and the punishment for the crimes you and I committed... the result of those that sins were headed straight for us.
Jesus loves you, that's why He shows you and that's exactly what happens when He did, does, and will do for things to you and through you!
He is a Blood Covenant God Who makes and keeps His relationship promises to you, with you, and for you.
He deserve all the respect, reverance and awe we give to Him.
Because Jesus is God, The Son!!!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Timing is everything!
There are several major Time Keepers... Atomic Clock, IERS, Doomsday Clock, USNO, and GPS.
God, Who is eternal, actually keeps a Calendar for the realm of time and space that He created where now we live in and His is THE MOST PRECISE TIME MEASUREMENT OF ALL!
Jesus teaches us how to navigate through this realm of time and space with perfect patience, compassion and perfect timing.
He understands the challenges that often take place... feeling out of control, being rejected, experiencing physical and verbal abuse, public humiliation, and giving up and being disobediant to God walking away from Him.
He experienced the same type of situations yet He remained "sin free" and now helps us get through them.
JESUS is right on TIME!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Doubling down and working harder using just our own strength and resolve doesn't always get the job done.
Sometimes we literally need the help of God.
That's where Blood Covenant relationship with Jesus comes in.
Jesus is God... God, The Son.
His desire is toi give us the Life and Power that He has.
That Life and Power can accomplish anything... all things.
Our part in that Blood Covenant relationship is to give Him our lives in exchange for His... A Divine Experience and Exchange.
When Jesus shows up, He shows up to cut a Blood Covenant relationship together with Him!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Relationships and timing are two vital components of life.
When relationships are good... Life seems good.
When relationships are bad... Life seems hard.
When our timing is right... things are quite alright.
When our timing seems off... things do feel quite awkward.
Prophetic ministry actually plays a very important role in how we navigate through life... Relationships and Timing.
Jesus is very Prophetic!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Sometimes I pinch myself to make sure I'm not dreaming or making things up in my head.
God is coming on the scene and revealing Himself in ways that I have never witnessed before in my lifetime.
Entire nations are changing overnight.
The President of Uganda publicly repenting for the way his own peopole have been sold into slavery by their very own kinsmen.
Ukraine using Russian bombs againgst Russia.
A few other major, prophetic, and eye opening events that will be unfolding shortly are being covered in this episode.
God is giving us a glimpse into what He is going to be doing for the next several months across the nations to help get our attention.
It's not God's desire that anyone would perish but that we all would come into relationship with Him as born-again citizens of His Kingdom.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
When you throw a rock into a pack of dogs, the first one to yelps is the one who got hit.
The same type of thing can happen with people.
If someone gives a word of correction to a group of people the one who got offended makes the loudest noise.
Whenever Jesus shows up He has a way of bringing issues that need to be brought to the surface up to the surface so that they can be exposed and dealt.
I'm thankful He has corrected me.
Periodically we all need correction.
Let's receive the correction Jesus provides.
The person who loves wisdom, loves correction.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
We've all had, and some of us may still have, some rather hard questions for God about your life and/or life in general.
Jesus is accustomed to addressing hard questions.
He's not intimidated by any of them.
In fact, He actually addresses them with a heart of love.
God literally answers your questions.
If you ask Him and allow Him to give you spiritual eyes and ears to see and hear His answers He will.
They may not be the answers you want to hear.
But they are good, truthful, and reliable.
Often they are even better than what we may have anticipated.
What happens when Jesus shows up?
He answers our hard questions with a heart filled with love for us!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
If could make just one request and you knew that it would come to pass, what would it be?
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
The All Mighty, Knowing, Loving GOD/YAWEH/YEHOVAH/YESHUA HAMASHIACH/RUACH HAKODESH Has Chosen Us To Be His Hands.
He Makes Our Hands Clean And Pure By Washing Them In The Covenant Blood Of Jesus... If We Allow Him To Do So His Way!
What Have You Been Doing With Your Hands And Have You Allowed God To Make Them Clean?
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
We thank God for the inroads we see in delivering men, women, and children from the bondage and horror of human trafficking and the sex slave industry.
It was approximately 1 1/2 years ago we shared an entire episode on the need for prayer in this area (We will re-broadcast that episode for all of you later today).
God is answering our prayers.
The movie, "Sound of Freedom", is but one of the many things that is being used to help deliver people from evil!
Praise God!
This episode is devoted to encouraging all of us to "get our lives in order" because of the significant things that God is doing and is going to continue doing (even more) on planet Earth over the course of the next several years.
You are alive by divine desisign.
You are supposed to be here right now because God has a plan and purpose for your life.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Jesus teaches us how to love and serve God and people while using things instead of using God and people to love and serve more things.
A recipe is only as good as it's ingredients.
Truth is True is long as it's Truth.
Cookies are only as tasty as their true recipe.
The True Recipe is experienced in the Taste!
Jesus plus or Jesus minus isn't the True Jesus!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
The same sun that melts butter hardens clay.
The Jesus that made a woman with her adulterous, checkered past walk away full of joy and freedom in her heart is the same Jesus that caused the religious scholars and Pharisees to seethe with jealousy and murder toward Him in their hearts.
Jesus has a unique Way of showing up right on time even if it seems early or sometimes late to us.
His presence affects us all in different ways.
Also, timing, and Who shows up on Whose Calendar of Events is being used, is everything.
We Are Now Living In Kingdom Of God Standard Time...
Allow Jesus to soften your heart.
Bo Yeshua Bo!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
THIS IS A PIVOTAL EPISODE.
THINGS HAVE SHIFTED FROM WHERE THEY HAVE BEEN AND WE ARE NOW MOVING INTO A HIGHER LEVEL OF REVELATION.
MOVING FORWARD WE WILL BE EMPHASIZING THE PROPHETIC, PRECISE, AND PERFECTLY LOVING TIMING OF GOD AND OUR PURPOSES IN HIS PLAN FOR PLANET EARTH AND HIS KINGDOM, POWER, AND GLORY HERE AND AS IT FULLY IS IN HEAVEN.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Kronos Time & Kairos Time
Faith In God & Faith Of God
Being Born Under Torah & Being Born Again To Obey Torah
The Already & The Not Yet
Reality & REALITY
Here & NOW
Timing & Empowerment
Exposing & Recalibrating
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
We are living in an Amazing Kronos that is about to give birth to a Kairos of God that all of creation has been growning to experience.
Kronos = A period of time
Kairos = A specific moment in time.
Yeshua/Jesus was a born at a Kairos moment in a Kronos of time.
Jesus was born at the exact moment in a set time that God had Sovereignly planned.
Just like today...
GOD'S TIMING IS SO SOVEREIGNLY PRECISE AND PROPHETICALLY ACCURATE THAT ALL OTHER TIME PIECES/HEARTS NEED TO BE SET TO HIS.
Galatians 4:4 is a central point for an upcoming series concerning the timing of God and where we are in relation to the literal soon return of Yeshua Hamashiach... King Jesus our LORD and Savior!!!
He will return at the exact right time just like He was born at the exact right time which had been determined by God before He created the Earth.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
When God sets us free from a way of life that had us enslaved He then takes the enslaved ways of that life out of us.
This podcast episode is a brief overview of how we, at Life Around "The Fire", got to where we are today.
We hope it will encourage you in your relationship (first and foremost) with God and in your relationships with one another.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
The world that we live in can be incedibly beautiful as well as it being a major pain to contend with these days.
Life, alone, can literally throw our timing off.
Or, we can get stuck in the mode of putting our heads down and just work, work, work (or play, play, play).
It's important for all of us to have a rythm to life: Work, Rest, Worship, & Play.
Whether we're out of sync, unbalanced or simply insensitive... we all need to recalibrate.
Getting back in step with Jesus, God's perfect timing is the only Way to really Live.
Becoming balanced in life... not lopsided or out of time is where it's at for all of us.
We, at Life Around "The Fire", are going to be doing that very thing.
We're going to be taking 10 days off to recalibrate.
When we get back we'll pick up from where we left off.
In the meantime, God bless you, Adios Amigos and enjoy some "Recalibrating"!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
It doesn't matter how old or young you are, you've doubted something about God at least once in your life.
I have said and done some hurtful things in my times of doubt and discouragement.
I've accused God of being mean, cruel, and neglectful.
I've cursed His name out loud in my pain and anger.
I've doubted His very existance and denied ever knowing anything about Him.
All of that has never prevented God from consistantly Being God.
Never once did He say, "David, I think it's time that you take everything over for awhile."
His ways and His timing are perfectly God's Very Own ... even when I haven't like it that way.
At leasat one person listening (that's always our purpose) is actually going to hear God speak to you in this simple, down-to-earth podcast episode.
Blessings on you...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Sometimes miracles can be those things that both did and didn't happen.
Like, "I can't find my stupid car keys."
Then, you finally found them 10 minutes later.
As you turned on your car and tuned into your favorite radio station, you heard the terrible news...
"The Great Bridge Collapse.
Had you found them 10 minutes earlier you would have been involved in that major catastophe.
God's timing is no joke... It's very real (precisely on time).
Now, concerning Jesus, and "His showing up"; If only 8 of the 365 foretold prophecies and specifics concerning the Messiah were to be fulfilled by one man the odds would be about 1 in 10,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 (Octillion).
Jesus fulfilled all of the 8 needed to make Him on Octillionaire ... plus 357 more perfectly on time (making Him a Nonillionaire [30 zero's] x THERE ARE NO ODDS).
The timing of God is precise and Jesus is the real Messiah, He is alive, and He is returning very soon!
The timing of God in your life is no less amazing.
It's reality is worth getting tuned into.
Let's not live like an ignorant, hard-hearted, proud-minded, fool.
Let's live a purposeful and meaningful Life in step with the timing of God's plan.
Let's get a fresh visitation from Jesus by asking Him to "Come on over"... He has, He does, and He will.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
There are times when we've all fallen short of finishing what we started.
I've done it at least once when I've tried repairing my automobiles.
Also, even though I don't really like it, hard times happen in each of our lives; at least once.
There are important truths found in the Life of Jesus that are helpful for us all who are dealing with or at least know what we're talking about concerning facing very challenging, and difficult times in life.
The good news is we don't have to face hard times on our strength alone.
Jesus loves us, understands us, and wants the type of relationship in which he is invited to help us overcome past failures and current difficulties together with Him.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Timing is everything.
If the "timing" of our car is off the car doesn't function properly.
The same goes for our lives.
Living our lives according to our own agenda is like driving a car that isn't "on time".
Our timing is off.
God keeps perfect time.
When Jesus shows up... He is right on time!
When we follow Him, we're in perfect timing.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Have you ever been stuck in a job you are good at but are not challenged to grow or develop into anything or anyone different?
It known as, "Jellyfishing".
The SSDD lifestyle.
Jesus calls us from those places into a whole new way of living life.
It's known as being born-again as a citizen of the Kingdom of God!
Jesus now says, "Flollow me, and I will make you..."
If He needs to reign us in a little that's easier than trying to motivate a boat anchor to swim.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
What's another word for being preoccupied with becoming and staying financially wealthy?
Greed.
Gorden Gekko, in 1987, said, "Greed, for lack of a better word, is good."
Many culture's including our very own actually elevate the need for greed.
Often, people who aren't wealthy (and greedy) are sneered at and joked about as being suckers and simpletons.
People try to hide or disguise greed in order to keep their secret to wealth well hidden from the "uninitiated.".
Some people are so wrapped up in the culture of wealth they don't know any other way.
I believe the latter is true of the rich, young, ruler we are looking at in this episode.
He was "happily wealthy" (only some of the time).
There's more going on in this story than mets the eye.
Let's open it up and unpack some of the treasures...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
I've had a fantasy view of life if everyone in it would have just done what I imagined most everything would have been great.
The fantasy I invented and believed would have been the best reality for me and others to live in.
If only everyone (including God) would have just seen things my way.
But then...
But then you showed up.
But then a real "idiot" showed up.
But then my past showsedup.
But then God showed up.
What happens when Jesus shows up?
What happens when Life actualy shows up and reveals to us all of His Reality?
If truth can be stranger than fiction (and it often is), then Reality is, by far, better than fantasy!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
If you have experienced or know someone who has experienced serious relationship issues, this is a pretty good podcast episode to tune into.
To say that everything is just "Fine" even though it's far from being "Fine", is like us saying we that love the new clothes the emporer is wearing, even though he's naked.
To finally get real help begins by us admitting that we have a real problem.
Then, and only then, will we be given the power by God to change and stop trying to merely look good and convince others that everything is just "Fine".
It's exhausting and a poor example for our children for us to keep living a life of fantasy.
Reality is hard at times but it is also so much more enjoyable to live in than for us to live a life of lies and fantasies.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Entrapment, Intimidation, Misconceptions, Divorce, Adultery, & Children.
These are just a few of the exciting and uplifting topics we will be looking at in this podcast episode.
In fact, this might be a good time to simply skip this episode and wait until episode 21.
For those of you who are brave enough to look at some of this stuff we're convinced the TRUTH makes us all FREE.
The people whom JESUS/YESHUA sets FREE, are FREE INDEED!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
When I was a young child I used to think that we all basically thought the same way and saw the world the same way.
Then life began revealing more of itself to me.
The truth and reality of differences began taking place in my mind.
It didn't take too, long to see and understand that we are all really different with only a few similarities.
At first it was troubling until I hit puberty and discovered the opposite sex.
Viva la difference!
I was glad to be different.
I didn't want to be a girl because I liked the difference(s).
That's a difference between sexes.
You get the point.
In this episode we're talking about differences regarding life experiences concerning our relationship with God.
There's only One Way to experience a realationship with God and it's through placing our faith in Jesus Christ.
However, there are many types of experiences that lead us up to the actual divine exchange of life in covenant with Him.
We no longer need to develop our own standards for life or experiencing relationship with God.
We put an end to all petty insecurities, competetitions, jealouslies, pride and prejudices.
We are one together in the One and only True God!
He is the One to Whom we will measure ourselves by throughout eternity.
Our personal and comunity relationship is our On-Going Experience with the Eternal Life of God!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Perhaps the most important podcast episode published by us to date!
What Happens when Jesus shows up?
Bondages and addictions are broken and removed.
Demonic powers and strongholds are defeated, bound and removed.
Miracles of various healings take place.
Children are blessed.
Blind eyes are healed and people can clearly see.
Deaf ears are unstopped and people can clearly hear.
Diseases of the skin are cleansed and people are made whole.
Lame and crippled limbs are healed and people can actually use them.
The dead are raised back to life.
EVEN POOR PEOPLE (MEN, WOMEN, AND CHILDREN) RECEIVE A SUPURB EDUCATION FROM THE MASTER TEACHER HIMSELF!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
When we actually take God at His Word and do what He says He will literally fulfill all of His promises to us.
We function at our highest level when we receive the power of God to do what was previously impossible to accomplish on our own strength.
Amazing... we are created to walk in the power of the resurrection from the dead... at least a part of it, right now.
It's a foretaste of more to come... and it's a lot!
We are called to be united so that we can share in it together... one man/woman ministries are like the dinasoars from another era... dead and extinct.
It's time for the united BODY of CHRIST to be empowered so the WE can be His witnesses... even to the ends of the Earth!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
What do you do around people who are religious "know-it-alls"?
How does a person handle a chaotic setting?
How can you help a person with a debilitating affliction?
Jesus is the best person to ask if you have questions about why and how He does stuff.
Jesus loves the little children...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
We are living in a time when world events are becoming more intense... much like the labor pains a woman feels just before finally giving birth to her new born child.
The thing about life is it feels so so daily and yet at the same time so amazingly real.
The way many of us understand some things about God are going to be experiencing a radical shift and a total life tranforming encounter with God as Who He is, not just Who someone else said He was.
God is setting the record straight.
His Love and His Life far exceed our wildest imaginations... He wants us to really see Who He is and what He's really like.
That's what this Big Deal is all about... Jesus being revealed to us by the power of the Holy Spirit.
This is not just "about" Him... This "IS" HIM being demonstrated to us by God the Holy Spirit.
Keep your ears and your eyes wide open!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
This is an hour in world history in which all of us who are alive will be witnessing the greatest display of God's Glory to have ever touched this planet.
The return of Yeshua Hamashiach/Jesus Christ is very near.
The great and terrible day of the LORD is at hand.
Bo Yeshua Bo!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
*** Editor's Note: There are varying viewpoints concerning which Mountain Jesus was Transfigured on. We are still doing our homework on that matter in our studies of Scripture. So, please... "Eat the meat and spit out the bones" when it comes to certain aspects of interpretation. We are all learners... Thank you... Bo Yeshua Bo!
SSDD... Jellyfishing... Que, Sera, Sera... Whatever... It's all just in the hands of fate...
Purposeless living is empty (at best).
Intentional living is where we find real life.
Following Jesus is an intentional, daily, act of willfully choosing to do something more than just talk about doing something.
To follow Jesus is to find out what happens when Jesus shows up.
Intentional vs Whatever...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Who does Jesus think He is?
He's got some nerve telling me I need to lay down my life and follow Him in order for me to truly find life!
Just Who does He think He is?
Who do you think you are?
Really, just who do you think you are?
The only way to truly find out is by finding your real identity which is securely held in the Heart of Jesus.
So, follow Him and you will find your life.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
It can be challenging, but, don't assume anything and by no means take the bait of "the what if's"!
We are all different and assimilate things differently.
We need God's Heart, Mind, and Word in us so that we can navigate through the various pitfalls in life just like Jesus did in the Way He went about reveling things.
He has called and chosen us to both be like Him and to do the things that He did now just like He did them then.
Assume nothing and get rid of the what if's!
Get Wisdom, Understanding, Knowledge, and Love!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Crowds of people are both interesting and at times unpredictable.
It takes a very secure and confident person to manage a crowd.
Without true authority and power managing a crowd of people can be like trying to coral a herd of cats.
Jesus knows how to handle any type of crowd.
For the record, crowds were never the litmus test of success in the mind of Christ.
His heart was focused on the Father's love and the majesty of His Kingdom being demonstrated in the Earth as it is in Heaven.
Jesus measures success differently than how we typically measure it.
Let's take another look at what happens when Jesus shows up and how He measures success...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Growing up as "Finn-Lander" in Hibbing, Mn. back in the 50's, 60's & 70's was uncomfortable to say the least.
It was predudice envitonment.
It was ethnically and racially a highly prejudice community... even though it was 99 percent Caucasian (and I am Caucasian).
People can come up with the most bizarre reason to be prejudice and divisive.
However, Jesus cut's through the barriers by bringing into the picture His forgiveness, His power, and His love.
He sees beyond the points of division and implaments a solution.
His LIFE is THE KEY SOLUTION TO ALL DIVISIONS!
It's the LIFE of Jesus that makes all the difference.
He demonstrates His abilities to confront hot topics and bring about true SHALOM/PEACE!
He sets the record straight and bring things back into their intended purpose order.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
If it wasn't for God being God I wouldn't believe in God.
People can make God look like Somebody He isn't.
They try to make God into Who and What they imagine Him to be like.
It's like giving someone the wrong directions to the destination they need to get to.
They get even more lost and desperate by taking those directions.
Enter Jesus... Praise God.
He comes to set the record straight and give us the One Right Direction... Himself!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
What happens when the party is over?
I remember one time after a two week party I had thrown.
The let down after everyone left was totally depressing.
I was broke, hungover, and in trouble.
What happens after we have one of those really great times with God?
How do we live out the remainder of life once the initial party is over?
Let's take a look at some options for us to consider.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
God gives us Himself when we invite Him into our lives.
We give Him all of who we are.
He, with us, become the internal strength necessary not only to withstand but to overcome any and all of life's external presures!
We can "make shalom" the atmosphere both in us and around us as we live life together with God and in loving unity with one another.
We don't have to try to double down and work harder at being good on our own.
We don't have to throw the towel in and try to fill ourselves up with sinful alternatives.
We can walk through the pressures of life together with Jesus because He has overcome the world!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Having pupose and clarity in life creates an atmosphere of confidence in and around us.
Uncertainty and lack of focus tend to lead to insecurity.
Having insecurity is like bleeding in the water that is surrounded by sharks.
There are people who prey upon insecure people.
They get a sense of power and control from using and abusing insecure people.
If you want to stop being used and abused the confidence that comes from following Jesus is like shark repellant.
Relationship with Jesus is the beginning point of being free from the complications produced by uncertainty and lack of focus in life.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Rejection and jealousy go hand in hand.
Jealous people are prone to reject others out of fear of being upstaged.
No matter how you slice it, the cuts of rejection still have the potential of hurting us inside.
Rejection isn't lethal... It just feels like it sometimes.
Jesus was and still is familiar with rejection.
Satan is jealous of Jesus.
Just because Jesus is God the Son risen from the dead doesn't mean His feelings are still dead.... they rose from the dead with Him!
God feels things.
However, He knows how to navigate through things that we get hung up on.
He hurts... He just knows how to handle His hurt.
He can teach us to do the same... If we let Him!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Even to this day there are times when I feel lost in a crowd.
Crowds can take on a personality of their own and it's easy to get lost in it.
Jesus understands that very thing.
He places high value on you as an individual.
He understands your value not because you are your mother's child or a member of a group.
He loves you because of how He sees you for who you really are.
He sees you in relationship with Him for eternity!
Not like some fat, naked, baby with little wings and a small golden harp sitting on a cloud around an old man with a long white beard while lightning bolts are coming out of his mouth ready to fry people He doesn't like.
But, you having a real, loving relationship with Him, a loving God,
He both forgave your sins and He set you free to love Him and others who are also in relationship with Him!.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
We're back...
Our caveat, "Betrayal", was an eye opening experience.
Check out the previous podcast episodes to help bring you up to speed if you've been away for a minute...
We're moving forward, once again, in our look at walking with Jesus through the Gospel of Mark.
One element of this walk is to have wisdom.
One facet of wisdom is: "The ability to state the obvious."
Jesus obviously did and still does things that are different than how you and I are accustomed to doing things.
However, God is God and He is free to be God as long as He chooses (LoL).
We're goiung to find out a bit more concerning what our Heavenly Father is like by looking at and studying how His Son, Yeshua, "worked the Family business."
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Some people are addicted to drugs/alcohol.
I was one of them.
Some folks are addicted to being a manipulator and when necessary a betrayer.
I, too, was one of them.
Some folks are addicted to the identity of being a victim.
Guilty!
Does it matter to know that you are not alone in your struggles in life.
Yes!
We all do more crazy stuff when we think we are a lost cause or the only one with this type of issue.
You are not alone.
Jesus is with you and wants you to be in deep relationship with Him and follow Him!
He will lead you and guide you out of the Valley of the Shadow of Death.
You, too, can fear no evil because you are loved by Jesus and He is your Savior!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Nobody needed to tell me I needed help.
It didn't take too much intellect to see that I was a mess.
What do I do with all my mess?
Now that was a whole different animal.
It takes true Wisdom to provide real solutions that actually work.
That's exactly when and where Jesus enters the scene...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
*An editorial note : We want to make a correction in a name reference used half-way through the episode. It was initially given as the the correct name, "Esaua". A few minutes later another name was used in the same Old Testament story. But instead saying "Esaua"the name "Enoch" was used. "Esau" is the correct name in the Old Testament reference. We apolgize for the woopsi. T
BTW, thanks for the gracious way that you provide a prayer covering for us. We love you... Bo Yeshua Bo
I have wasted so much of my time trying to figure out why really bad things happen to me.
The question itself has caused me to be like a dog chaing it's tail or a monkey chasing the weasel.
Lengthy cycles of wasted energy and time... things just swirling around in my head.
Afraid to forgive and afraid to let go of the hurt.
I grew rather accustomed to letting hurt and anger be my protectors.
Until...
Until the love of Jesus Christ really broke through.
His love broke through my hard exterior and offered me real help, freedom, and a new, healthy way of Living...
That's some of the stuff found in this episode.
Take your seat buckles off and let go of the steering wheel cuz we're going for a ride!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
It takes being able to see and IDENTIFY a problem to KNOW that it exists.
Knowledge.
Knowledge is important.
But, knowing is not enough at times.
It's a whole other thing to know what to do about it.
Where do I go and what do I do if I've been betrayed?
Where do I go and what do I do if I'm the betrayer?
WISDOM is the supreme aquisition in this situation.
Wisdom.
Wisdom is knowing where your destination and the insight involving the best way how to take ACTION and to ultimately get to the destination.
We need wisdom in knowing how to deal with betrayal.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
What's the worst thing you've ever done?
Would you call that thing "sinful":
If was stealing a piece of candy?
If was getting drunk?
If was telling a lie?
If was betraying someone?
All sin is sin.
It's not all that everything is the same.
But, taken to it's full expression all sin develops or progresses into this condition known as death.
The wages of sin is death.
Jesus paid the price for sin to be eradicated/removed from our lives if we ask him and place our trust in Him.
Betrayal is a sin that can be both forgiven and made whole in a ne Way.
The first thing in order though is to activate the process of being made whole/healed and it is through "Forgiveness".
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
There's nothing like a good old fashioned betrayal to seperate the men from the boys.
All kidding aside, betrayal is not only painful it is an ever present reality that we all face, faced, or will face at least once in our lifetime.
What is it and what do we do about it.
That's really what these next two podcast episodes are devoted to.
It's a very relevant issue in the world we live in.
Thank You God for giving us Eyes to see and Ears to hear...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Have you ever really betrayed anyone?
I have.
I betrayed a friend of mine publicly once because I secretly wanted to be viewed as someone who knew how to lead people better than he did.
I embarrassed him publicly in front of his congregation.
I know... what a creep!
However, I thought I was actually doing the will of God.
It's amazing how deceived and deceptive we can all be.
What is the remedy for that type of behavior?
That issue of betrayal (both betraying and being betrayed) will be the topic of this episode as well as the next two episodes.
The reason is because it's an issue that isn't easy to address and it's going to take some time to unpack it.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
The definition of overthinking things is not easy for me to provide because I am a recovering overthinker, so I can't quite describe it all, yet.
I have been a overthinkeraholic.
I hate it whein I get caught doing it.
Except.
Except when God shines His Light on me and I see what I am doing.
He is so amazing in how He does stuff.
If it doesn't have love in it , it's not from God.
Jesus is the only One that can help us overthinkers.
Thank God for Jesus I'm now in His recovery unit.
Now, let's see what this episode is all about.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
What happens when 3 men, who are close friends, get together who haven't seen each other in over 5 years?
Trouble?
It all depends on your definition of trouble.
You will find out the answer to that question when you listen to what we (the 3 friends) have to say in this podcast episode.
I think it will be a pleasant surprise.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
What do people say about you behind your back?
Do you want top know?
Does it frighten you to know or find out?
Jesus has a track record of what happens when He shows up and what people have to say about it.
I'm impressed with not only hopw things took place but also how He handled each situation differently.
The formula is... THERE IS NO FORMULA!
THERE'S ONLY JESUS!
HE IS MORE THAN JUST ENOUGH.
HE IS TOTALLY FULFILLING!!!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Who is the I AM?
What is the I AM?
Is there really an I AM?
We're about to find out, again!
Read with us, together, the answers to those quesations and more as we look a bit more deep into the Gospel of Mark which can be found in the Bible's recording of the New Testament/Covenant.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
You can't give away what you don't have.
You can only fake it for so long before you're eventually found out to be a phony.
Leadership is more than being gifted.
Most of true leadership involves character.
Character is developed by training and practice.
Leadership is not a way for insecurity people to feel important.
Leadership involves being willing to eat last, stay up later, pray more, fast more often, take and handle criticism, and face real persecution so that others have a visual example of what the Life of Jesus looks like in the skin of someone else.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
We are living in times of historic proportions.
We are in the earliest of days concerning God making tHis Glory and the Mighty, Loving, Power of His Kingdom more eveident on Earth than even during the Exodus of Israel out of Egypt.
Israel is going to be taking center stage globaly more and more and so is the Glory of the LORD.
Satan is being lured in, just like he was in the Garden of Eden.
It was a trap set for Lucifer.
He took the bait.
He couldn't ever resist trying to harm Israel because of the shed blood of the Messiah's sinless blood..
Well, this time is no different, except...
Except we are extremely close to "The End".
Whatever happens to and through Israel is very important to watch.
The figs on the fig tree are almost ripe and ready to be picked for the pleasure of the King in the Kingdom of God!
Isael is the fig tree!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
It's still hard for me to comprehend the fact that an entire German Nation came under the control of a "vibe (vibration)" when Adolf Hitler became their despot/leader.
Hitler had a certain "vibe" to him.
God has a "Vibe" to Him.
Leaders who are equipped by God, "vibe" like God.
Jesus was and is the Perfect Example.
Leaders are equipped by God to "vibe/lead" like Jesus.
Follow me AS I FOLLOW CHRIST!
Vibe with me as I vibe like Christ.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Have you ever worked for a really aweful 'Boss"?
Have you ever been a really aweful "Boss?"
What does a true leader/boss look like?
What does a true leader/boss look like when things get turned upside down?
To be a good leader one must first be a good follower.
What leadership style are you leading with and sitting under right now?
Is it healthy?
Why, or why not...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
One day I heard God speak to my heart in a Way only a loving Father could, He said, "I want you to prach to me. I love it when you preach and teach about Me and My Kingdom... I want to hear you preach My Word back to Me."
I was taken a back for a moment.
God wanted to hear me preach.
Of course He could hear me.
He is Omniscient, Omnipresent, and Omnipotent.
Yet, He said He wanted me to hear me preach to Him.
That puts a whole different spin on serving Him.
He is the Center of all things.
Unto Him be ALL honor, glory, power, adoration, worship, praise, and love.
People are not the main purpose or recipients of what we do; the First Fruits of ministry belong to the LORD.
God is the Center!.
He loves us because He likes us and that's why He is using us to lead.
Serving Him is not something we do to get His approval.
We serve Him and others because we are approved by Him because of the shed blood of His Son.
We can serve with a thankful heart because we have been saved from sin and death into the joy of eternal life with Him and one another.
So, those of us who are leaders, we can do so with a thankful heart... God wants to see you lead just like He did through Jesus Christ.
The Father approved of His Son and He approves of you being in Him!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Being a leader involves pereiodically dealing with conflicts and uprisings.
Divisions and disputes, even in the midst of revival, can brew and boil over during the course of time.
True leaders will be part of the solution by not runnung from the conflict but addressing it head on.
Being angry is different than ruling by anger.
Some people use the tyranical method of excercising anger to intimidate and control people.
Good leaders allow themselves to feel anger but rely upon the Word of the LORD to come to them and through them.
It's identifying with the people and with God that makes for a great leader.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Without a clear vision or purpose in life we all are like jellyfish (at best).
We drift around (at best).
When we have a clear purpose or vision we actually accomplish great things.
We perish, in many respects, without a vision.
It's ssdd for sure
Monday Back To Work Blues Day, Wednesday Hump Day, And Happy Friday WhileLiving For The Weekend Routine Gets Old And Expensive Real Quick.
Life is either real short or real long, depending on the mood your in.
Leaders are not meant to be just foremans, bosses, or CEO/Owners.
Leaders are designed to lead and teach by example.
Part of that example is to live out the plans and purposes of God... His Vision for planet Earth.
This is a call to all who are and to those who are becoming leaders... Make sure you have the Vision and the Word of the LORD!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
There is a way that seems like it is the right way to live but in the end it's proving itself to be destructive.
Most of us have done at least a few things on our own power and have tried to give God credit for doing it.
It always fall short of creating His Glory.
God's glory is the enviroment that God creates and inhabits.
God is LIGHT.
In Him is no darknessd.
Prayer releases God to move on our behalf because He wants us tyo grow up and be mature leaders.
We are the ones who calls into action.
I love the way God reveals His Kingdom and His heart of Loveto His leaders.
He told us that He does that so that in turn we can visually model and help others become living hosts of the Glory of the Lord.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
You are in for a treat.
If you've never heard Jay Slife, share, teach or preach you will not be the same.
God uses this man.
God is God.
Jay is Jay.
Jay doesn't try to be God.
Stuff happens when God is on the scene...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
To have authority we need to be under authority.
Jesus taught us that in His Word.
God is our Ultimate Authority!
However, He sets up structures that help us operated in the power of His Kingdom with some sense of order and responsibility.
Jay Slife, an under-shepherd of Jesus, provides that under the umbrella of Free Indded Ministries.
We, in this podcast crew, answer to someone who is in a place of authority in our lives.
So, if anyoneone has a problem with us, you can go straight to Jay!!!
I'm sure you all know what we mean.
We love Jay and look forward to hearing and receiving more from our heavenly Father as He uses His young man, Jay...
This is Part II of II in a series we have entitled: LORDSHIP, STEWARDSHIP, AND RELATIONSHIP.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Good leaders follow Jesus.
Did you knpw that information creates emotion?
Do you have a backbone given to you by God?
What kind of leader are you?
Good leaders follow Jesus.
Jesus didn't eliminate The Law of God.
Jesus came to fulfill and illuminate The Law of God.
He never broke or breaks The Law of God.
By following Him, we don't break The Law of God.
He doesn't steal, murder, lie, covet, commit adultery, etc. so, if we follow Him, we don't steal, murder, lie, covet, commit adultery, etc.
In following Him we too live a Holy Life.
Good leaders follow Jesus.
Poor leaders follow the world, the flesh, and the devil.
What kind of leader are you?
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Looks can be deceiving.
For reasons I will never know some people have the romantacized view that being a leader is an impressive thing to be.
Being a true leader, a servant leader is anything but impressive.
It will cost you your life, all of it.
True leadership is not a choice, it's a call that God chooses to give.
True leadership is not us getting it by going to college and getting a degree (and I enjoyall levels of schooling and higher education).
Leadership is not for the faint of heart.
If you can do anything else... do it!
Except, if you're called to lead there's nothing else you want to do... even though it hurts.
We need leadership because it sets a standard to follow.
If it's in the mud, then most of the people will be in the mud, too.
The opposite is true... Praise God.
Let us be like Jesus (and Ezra) and allow ourselves to truly identify with those we are called to lead.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
I, OFTEN, have to shake my head when I hear someone say, "It must be nice being a leader. You get to do all that cool stuff. I wish I was a leader."
NO YOU DON'T!!!
Being a leader is like volunteering to be ugly.
Please, don't get me wrong.
There are aspects of leadership that have great rewards and privileges.
However, they are far and few between the everyday goings on in life.
Now, being a "spiritual leader" is much more exciting.
I'm being facetious.
There is nothing glamorous about being any type of leadership role (even that of being a dictator/emporer).
Remember, we're talking about leading people like you around.
BTW, what type of person are you as a follower?
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
We aren't called to "attend" Jesus like He is some kind of sporting event that we attend so that we can say we really "know" the game.
He calls us to "follow" Him.
We get to know Him as we follow Him.
"Attending" an event, even a Church event, is not equivilant to following Jesus.
Good news, God is emptying the bleachers.
Following Jesus is not a spectator sport!
These are not "war games".
These are live bullets.
People actually get hurt and killed while "doing the stuff" by following Jesus.
"Work" is a God-thing... that makes it a good thing.
Being empowered to work in the Kingdom of God is a huge part of the reason why we are alive.
God wants to use you and me... not just look at us while we watch more things and want more and more of the things that steal life from us.
No wonder such a huge portion of "The Church" needs to be revived...
Well, He is reviving His people, again... Bo Yeshua Bo, Praise the LORD!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Have you ever been going through a hard time and the person you're telling out of nowhere began to "should" on you?
What do I mean by "should" on you?
"You "SHOULD" go over to that person and tell them that you have never liked anything about them and they can take their critical attitude and shove it."
I had someone should on me up one side and kept shoulding on me all the way down my backside and onto the floor.
It was a real "SHOULD STORM"!
Let's stop "SHOULDING" on one another.
There's a better way.
I didn't say easier.
I said better.
Listen up...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
This podcast episode is unlike most other episides.
It's definitely not "Your Father's Oldsmobile."
It's got some rather high octane praying going on inside these four walls.
If that's new to you it was new to me once.
New is good as long as God is in it.
Pray for the Shalom/Peace of Jeru (city of) Salem (shalom/peace... Jerusalem = City of Peace.
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.
Freedom from bonage (sex slavery) in Thailand.
Pray for Kenya, Africa to be wise in it's use of the new fertile and fruitful land/soil it will be receiving from Abba/God... both in the physical and in the spiritual.
Pray for North America to remain being a refuge for those who are in need of a new beginning... Faith, Hope, and Love.
Pray for the believers in Russia, the Ukraine, and the Arab/Persian believers as well.
War is on the way... It can't be stopped.
God is going to reveal His Mighty Right Arm and deliver Israel from the jaws of it's enemies.
Let God arise and let His enemies be scattered.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Doubling down while working harder and harder under your own power with all of the promises that you will do better next time spoken and on your mind and still you find yourself falling short of obtaining what you think you need should be getting really old by now.
Having anxiety attacks and taking Xanax to deal with your stress while still feeling the pressures mounting and it is about to drive you insane is not the best of plans.
Real life has real issues.
What do you do when someone doesn't approve of what you're doing and they make threats about how they are going to shut you down?
What do you do when you fall flat on your face while you roll around in the bondage of your past way of living?
Real lie has real issues.
Where is God in all of this rubble?
Perhaps something in this podcast episode will help you or someone you know receive help from God...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
W.O.R.K. is more than a four-letter word.
I remember the first time I received financial support for doing work I loved to do.
I loved it so much I was doing it for free.
Someone once told me, "Do something that you are good at and you love to do and do it.
Do it for free because you're going be doing it anyway, because you love doing it.
Do it so well that someone would be willing to pay you to do it."
It happened
If that should happen to you, graciously accept the support because it provides an opportunity for God to be glorified, your practical needs to be met, and the other person receiving a blessing for giving unto the LORD.
W.O.R.K. is more than a four-letter word.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
It is so tempting to "take the bait" when distrations keep coming my way; especially when I'm in a hurry to get somewhere.
It's easy to "take the bait" when an unexpected expense comes my way when your bak account is running low.
"Taking the bait" can feel rather of exhilarating when taking that first hit of LSD-25.
"Being caught stealing a car after I "took the bait" cost me time in jail, loss of employment, and relationship tension involving that was part of a break up.
"To takethe bait" or "To not take the bait."
That is the question as well as the common concern we all face.
In this episode we will address that along with a couple of other key points in our look at what Jesus has to say about life in the year 2023.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
The feeling of making someone happy just by them seeing your face again is a beautiful thing.
Having someone say, "I thought he'd never leave", is a real empty feeling once you know that it was said about you personally.
Being considered to be faithful to take on a huge responsibilty is actually a very enliving feeling and empowering experience.
Being found untrustworthy leaves a person feeling ashamed and self-defensive.
Thank God for the Life and example of Jesus Christ!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Satan hates God because he can't be God.
The two were once united.
But, Lucifer was found to have become filled with pride.
His dissent and fall caused the first "split".
Pride is a monster dressed up like a successfgul person.
Living in pride is literally a lower, inferior form of existance that is even lower than living a beggars existance.
Pride is the epitome of the entitled generation.
Pride and division go hand in hand.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
What have you heard God say to you recently?
Have you ever said, "I've never not heard a thing?"
Join the Church (if you want to).
Are you one who's said, "Yes, I have and He told me (fill in the blanks)."
Relationships can be faked.
Real realtionships can't be faked.
The process of us maturing into healthy people (body, soul, and spirit) is what this episode is mostly about (relationships being highlighted).
We hope you get something beneficial that you can take and apply from this episode.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
After Jesus said on the cross as He was dying, "It is finished."
He literally meant PAID IN FULL.
All of our insane behavior and self-absorbed thinking,.
The stuff that some people saw as well as the stuff going on inside of our minds.
The things that seperated us from relationship with God.
He took the full blow, the total release of how God the Father felt about sin fell upon the sin that seperates us from Him so it wouldn't fall on us.
Punishment and judgement fell upon Jesus so that we could be clensed by the Blood of Jesus that He shed in order to set us free to live the quality of Life that is Life giving... not life imploding!
Sound the shofar.
Jesus died and 3 days later He literally rose from the dead to live forever.
He proved that he made a way to the other side of the stuff that kept us in bondage.
He is doing something about that now...
Listen up, for those of you who took part in this time of prayer and fasting... Thank you and may God richly reward you both here and at the time of your full inheritance.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
How do I deal with all of negativity I'm experiencing as a result of following Jesus and living a new life and no longer doing the harmful things I used to do to myself and others?
Open up, clean out and tune in with your spiritual ears for some answers...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Sometimes living in denial seems like the right thing to do when things are really bad.
Part of denial is petending it's not as bad as it really is.
Once you do assess the damages and own up to them, where do you start in the process of restoration?
These are very real, everyday concerns that are being faced by men, women, and children all over the world.
What are we going to do about it?
God knows and He is worthy of all of praise and worship for providing us with His answer.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
The ability to make clear, potentially unpopular decisions is part of maturity and leadership.... It's part of growing up in life. on Earth.
To clearly and confidently let our "YES", mean "YES".
In the same way let our "No", mean "No".
Being clear and direct can be a real challenge for some of us.
We need the confidence that comes from having a strong "backbone".
Who we trust in and hang out with helps in the weakening or the strengthening of our hope/backbone.
It is also an area that sometimes requires some difficult situations where communication may not be received nicely.
Some people love conflict.
I don't care for it.
However, I would rather deal with the shame and not the pain(kind of like a good old fart... lol).
Some folks will try to shame us into being afraid.
The crippling pain of fear is no joke.
Next time conflict or compromise arises and knocks on your door let the Holy Spirit answer it with you and fill your mouth with the Truth!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
It's important for you and I to understand the times we're living in.
Wanting something to be like it used to be is hard to let go of sometimes.
Getting a present that we aren't totally pleased with because we wanted it to be bigger, like the last swimming pool isn't an uncommon feeling.
However, we need to let go of our expectations, initial impressions, and feelings of disappointment.
Let go of all those things and embrace the change.
Things, even though they are different, are going to be better than before.
In many respects, that's a snapshot of some of our lives today.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
I used to wonder why my mother would get so happy to give things to people.
Things that were valuable like her Time, Energy, and Money.
I secretly thought she was rather naive and gullible at times.
However, she always had an extra $500.00 (in cash) tucked away.
All this on the mega salary of a Nurse's Aide in a Nursing Home in Hibbing, Mn.
Giving...
What in the world does giving have anything to do with us spritually growing in our relationship with God and our relationships with one another?
What does giving have to do with God revealing Himself to us in a big way again on planet Earth?
Hopefully, you will get some more clues found in this podcast episode.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Have you ever tried to control diarrhea by using sheer willpower?
It's impossible!!!
Are there things you are saying or doing that keep damaging your life and your relationship with others no matter how hard you try to get things under control?
If yes, listen up...
We're not going to be talking about diarrhea but about oppression, enslavement, and addiction along with an initial plan surrounding solutions and not just problems.
The labels for these various types of problems are all quite synonymous.
We're not going to focus too much on symantics in this episode.
If we can't take care of the problems using conventional methods of counseling, therapy, or behavior modification, what then?
Then perhaps things are rooted in a spiritual cause.
Good news, there is more than just informative information that's avialable. There's the power of God's Kingdom enforced by The Holy Spirit which leads us into places of salvation (not just a once-and-done thing) that is available!
That's what we're talking about!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
To all of you who have once served God and been used by Him and you have fallen into some pretty heavy duty stuff .
If you've said to yourself some things like, "I'm pretty sure I'm damaged goods and I have disqualified myself from every being used by Him for His glory ever again."
Take a minute and listen to this message of Hope!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
I used to drink up to a quart of vodka a day, smoked a ton of weed, taken a lot of LSD-25 and at times some magic mushrooms along with heroin, pain killers and benzoids just to top things off.
I eventually became what is commonly referred to as a "burn-out".
The same type of thing happened to me while I served as a pastor of a local congregation of believers in Jesus because by working very hard and doing a bunch of busy stuff mostly on my own abilities and strength when I developed a case of being "burned out".
Then the relationship I was in got real sour and we both ended up "burning" each other (so to speak)... We each got "burnt"
I must have been a glutton for punishment.
Nope, I was just trying to achieve or reach "the impossible" on my own power.
I found out I'm not alone.
Alone or in the company of others I still felt like a second class citizen.
Burned out and damaged goods.
Funny thing... God gives His hope to taking and making use of"burned stones" to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem... Read Nehemiah 4.
What's up with that?
He is willing, ready, and able to impart fresh hope, His hope into our life today, right now!
Hope gives us the strength and vision to be patient while waiting for the promise to arrive.
Hope is actually a very powerful thing.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
I used to think that hope was kind of like wishful thinking or some consolation prize for those who didn't win "The Real Prize".
"I sure hope that money comes today."
"Well, I know you didn't win the game. But, we can hope that next time things will be better.."
Hope is much more powerful than that.
In fact, the word "Hope" in the ancient Hebrew language is probably the best, most accurate definition of "Hope"
The word for hope is "tiqvati" and it means "to have very certain and strong confidence in something not yet seen to become visible and real."
To be very certain in something and having strong confodence in the provision being made real to you by God even though it is still invisible.
Hope isn't believing in chance or hoping for good luck.
Hope is living in strong certainty and bold confidence in God Being our Source of all good things that are currently still invisible yet to be manifest to us by Him
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Once I got my bearings and I new I was lost I found that I this voice inside of me that was tuned into a different frequency and I heard myself calling for help.
Within a moment I was rescued by a stranger I felt like I had known all of my life.
It was Jesus.
He began showing me many things about how I got lost and how we were going to get out and what I needed to do to help.
He was going to do it.
I needed to obey what he told me to do with Him.
One of the things was for me to embrace a new identity.
An identity of love.
I did.
WOW!!!
Things looked completely different.
That's what this series entails.
Jesus saving us and Holy Spirit transforming us...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
History started to become more interesting after I turned 25 years old.
Prior to age 25 my frontol lobe hadn't beome fully adult/formed yet.
Previous to that development I basically just did stuff without thinking it through before I went ahead and just did it.
Now I can think before I act (most of the time).
Once again, previous to that development I basically just did stuff.
On one hand that's good.
On the other hand, if I let the pendulum swing too far the other way, I could get caught up in navel gazing.
Navel gazing is like peeling an onion.
There's nothing of anyreal benefit by doing the excercise.
It actually just killing time.
It's empty in the middle and it just makes a person look busy doing something.
I've been known to know how to kill time.
I can get busy doing nothing worthwhile (or even good stuff) in a heartbeat.
Keeping our eyes on the priorities God has placed in front of us is vital for us to live in if we are going to prosper and have good success.
That's what this episode is all about... Keeping an eye on God's prorities and doing those things first!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
If we need to know "Why" before we trust and obey God we will be standing still all of our lives.
Understanding can wait... Obedience can't.
Trust and Obey...
Worship and Obey...
Trust God.
Worship God.
Obey God.
Fast and Pray.
Pray in Tongues.
Pray in tongues as often as you can.
See what what happens when you trust, worship , and obey God while you fast and pray in tongues a lot (as often as yoiu can)!
Then drop us a line at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
What does God say about you when He talks to some of the other "sons of God"?
What do the demons say about you when your name is mentioned?
Is this stuff even real?
I used to fast and pray.
I'm don't care about helping set the captives free anymore.
Who am I?
Who is God?
What's this all about?
What difference does it make if I fast and pray?
Why get worked up over stuff?
Just go for a bike ride and smoke a blunt or sit by the water and soak up some suds..
Sound familiar?
We are called and chosen to be in the midst of the stuff that God loves doing... not throwing in the towel and going back for a roll in the mud of useless existence.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Praying In glossasia (worshipping God in an unlearned and unknown tongue/language) while including an even deeper level of intimacy, hunger, and devotion by fasting from food is a very powerful and necessary way for us to be involved in the things that God enjoys doing.
Often times fasting is an unplanned event.
We get so involved and caught up in something or someone that we actually forget to eat or drink.
There can alos be times wher fasting is planned... like a date night with your spouse and/or your best friend.
Fasting is best expressed in the context of relationship.
Exchanging one hunger for another.
The late (and great) John Wimber coined this one: "How do you spell LOVE? The answer, T.I.M.E.?"
Fasting buys us T.I.M.E.
Fasting as we pray or worship is a sign of passionate love.
We discover more and more of His identity as well as more and more of our own as we share the intimate closeness of perfect love.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Amnesia is a wild phenomana.
To not recall who we are is hard to comprehend on one hand.
On the other hand I kind of get it.
I don't always have a firm grip as to my real identity and how God really sees me.
Who am I?
Who am I in His eyes?
Does it even matter?
Yes, it does.
Huge... It's a very big deal.
Who we really are impacts all of our decision making.
It affects the who, what, when, where, why, and how of life.
Prayer and fasting are two rather unusual aspects in our relationship with God (in which our true identity is both found and secure).
In fact, it's an often misunderstood and neglected part of a healthy relationship with God.
But, we are going to be doing something about that...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Mountain peaks also contain plateaus and valleys.
Prophetic vision is often compared to looking at the mountain peaks and reporting what is seen about them while the plateaus and valleys aren't mentioned.
The plateaus and valleys all represent time and space.
The mountain peaks illustrate experiences and conditions.
Periodically things can get a bit confusing.
Thank God for His other means of communication.
Prophetic stuff is important but it is what it is: one piece of the puzzle... the puzzle is the mosaic of life.
Prophetic ministry is kind of like driving really fast in your car while wearing binoculars.
Everything seems closer and faster.
We are going to slow things down a bit and catch our breath and breathe in the goodness of our God and His provisions for awhile!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Most of us are well aquainted with road signs.
100 miles to New York City.
200 kilometers to Helsinki.
Exit 204A,
The road signs let us know what's going on.
The Miracles, Signs, and Wonders of God and His Kingdom are much the same.
We are in a time when the signs indicate that God is about to do something quite amazing, in His Soveriegn Calendar Way.
The sign of: One heart, One mind, One soul... One New Man is developing clearer and clearer!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
If someone would have told me a few years ago that the first key component in establishing the culture of nation would be "worship" I would have laughed and said that financial currency would be higher on the priority list of things to establish.
However, that's why I am not God.
Apparently "worship" is the #1 cornerstone of the culture we find in the Kingdom of God.
There is no higher priority ahead of worshipping THE LORD.
We are going to find out why and how that is relevant to the world we live in right now!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
We recently bought a house and literally, as "blind luck" would have it, 6 months after we bought it we had already made 50k in equity.
We didn't know the market all that well.
However, those who understood the times/market saw the balloon coming.
They understood the times and as a result they really made out well as property brokers.
Understanding the times is important for a variety of important reasons.
We will be looking at the spiritual climate and ramifications in the next few podcast episodes.
So, please stay tuned and study up on the Book of Ezra, The Book of Nehemiah, and The Letter to the Philippians.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
We've all had a bad song stuck in our head.
We've all, also, more than likely had an obsessivie thought or two that seem to get stuck in our brains.
Losing focus on the good things that are in our lives is all part of living life on Earth.
It's definitely not a perfect place to live, yet!
In the meantime we have a struggle, at times, to maintain focus that is a healthy one.
In many respects we find ourselves becoming like that person or those things we are giving our attention to.
What or who is occupying the majority of your time.
Look at your lifestyle and you will see exactly who and what you pay the most attention to and talk about.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
If I can't trust you, believe you or have confidence in the typr of love we talk about sharing we really don't have what is called a healthy relationship with each other (or anyone else, really).
Trusting in what someone says and who they arre is a foundational building block for having real, healthy relationships.
I'm learning to trust my heavenly Father more and more.
I had a great earthly father.
I just didn't know him that well growing up because he was very busy providing for our family of 7... me being #7.
I'm not alone.
Many of us at this point in world history are like a fatherless type of people wandering around not knowing exactly what to do or what to think regarding what this whole Earth experience is all about and meant to be.
Many of our fathers are in jail, prison, strung out, drunk, chasing after whores, wasting a lot of money, workaholics, etc...
It can be a real challenge and change for many of us to trust a Father-figure.
Well, God is not a Fathe-figure.
God is The Father.
Men are designed to be a Father-figure.
The Father hasn't failed the Father-figures have dropped the ball leaving The True Father looking rather undesirable to relate to these days.
God, The Father, is in the process, again, of setting the record straight.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
This episode is full of dunamis/dynamite and some important insight along with some understanding, and application...
God is emptying the bleachers and He's called us all onto the field.
He ius going to use us!
He wants to and He will.
He is God.
He is good.
God is love.
Beloved, let us love one another, becuase love, is from God!
Ready or not, here He comes...
Love never Fails!
Love wins!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Even though we all know, for the most part, that people are just people.
I know someone who is now passed and is safe and very satisfied Living Eternal Life with Yeshua/Jesus on the other side.
However, while alive on the Earth, they were terrified, by and large, of people.
Folks would encourage her but to no avail.
She was very concerned and controlled by the opinions of other people.
She was terrified of criticism, rejection, and conflict.
Well, that's the devil's wheelhouse.
Life on planet Earth in it's current condition is going to involve conflict.
Conflict on a variety of levels... Mentally, spiritually, physically, and emotionally.
Power encounters are spiritual conflicts being waged in a type of fight or warfare.
We need to be equipped enough to be able to join in the fight and be part of the battle's victory!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
One day after using a power blower to clean off my carport I noticed I was filthy with dirt, dust, twigs, leaves and other scraps.
I was "a mess".
All because I used a power blower.
The Kingdom of God is somewhat like a power blower in the sense that it does a supernatural job but it kicks up somne dust and other trash as it's cleaning the area and we can get messy.
Things, at time. are going to get spiritually, socially, and even politically messy in the process of spiritual activity.
How are we going to handle it?
I'm believing for the best but at the same time I'm also preparing for the mess.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
When the lights are turned low even a messy room can look clean on the surface.
Turn on the lights and you find a different story.
The same can be said of things spiritually.
The powers of darkness do not like being seen in the light because it reveals what they really look like and who they are.
Satan loves himself, he loves lies, he loves to steal, kill and destry things.
He doesn't admit to any flaws.
Having his weaknesses and limitations revealed is madening to him.
The same goes for his minions.
They can't handle the Presence of the LORD.
They all are arrogant and thin skinned.
By His mercy and lovingkindness God is causing a deliverance from evil and it's oppressive powers in our lives and communities to continue to take and cause extremely painful damage.
Because of that: Massive awakenings are ensuing.
Along with that comes a fair amount of ox dung... a churches getting messy with people learning and making mistakes.
Things just might look a little wild for a few years before the work is done in our areas.
However, the necessary work will be well done by God!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Growing up on a small farm outside of a small mining town in Northern Minnesota (Hibbing) my brother-in-law had a bee farm for making honey located on an acre or two in the back, far 20.
I thought it was a pretty cool set-up.
But, I kept my distance.
One day I saw him (Jerry, my brother-in-law) with a device that looked like a glorified watering can.
Except it had smoke coming out of it instead of water.
Jerry told me that it drove the angry bees away and put the others to sleep so that he could harvest the honey without getting stung.
I asked if I could smell the smoke and look into one of the boxes that housed the beehive.
I did and it smelled like burning/smoking woodchips... I liked it.
Funny how I liked it but the bees didn't like it at all.
It's like the Presence of our heavenly Father.
I love it but, demons can't stand it.
We are going to be taking the next 5 episodes to highlight the reality of oppressive powers being broken and removed from people's lives as a result of God intensifying His love toward us and what we can do as we experience this reality becoming more and more the new normal!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Change...
Things change...
I change...
You change...
You would think we have all grown accustomed to and maybe even love change.
Or not...
A Big Change Is Upon Us.
And getting bigger...
What are we going to do about it?
This introduction will lead us into a 5 part series on "The Kingdom, The Power, And The Glory Of God".
Hold on (or let go), because Jesus is behind the wheel and we are all going for a ride!!!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
This life we live is quite a journey.
It's nothing like I thought it was going to be.
Some of it is way better and more robust with love and happiness than I could muster on my own.
It's also been harder than I imagined it was going to be at times.
This podcast episode is a summary and an introduction all wrapped in one.
It's kind of like life.
You've got to get into it to really experience all of what God intends it to be!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Relationship is where it, begins, grows, and grows, and keeps on growing!
Relationship with God.
Relationships with one another.
That what this momentum is all about...
Relationship!
Blood Covenant Relationship!!!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Some people love eating liver and onions.
I'm not one of them.
Liver and onions is not my faorite meal to "Super-size".
Demonization is like that also, for me.
It's important and healthy to address.
I just don't care for it.
However, I'm going to do my best (with God's help) to take a basic look at the reality of "Power Encounters".
This will be soon be followed up with a more in-depth look at how these things are interacting in the world we live in today...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
God, our heavenly Father loves us.
Satan, the prince of the power of the air, hates us.
We live in a dual reality.
The Kingdom of God will overcome all opposition.
However, the battles are real and they take on different shapes and sizes.
Be wise, not fearful!
Be faithful, not easily sidetracked!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Allowing in and letting go...
Sounds easy enough unless you are talking about removing porcupine quills.
Now we're looking at things a little more carefully.
That's basically a look at one's interior life/soul after experiencing any form of abuse.
Don't touch me as we hold onto the past pain with a fear-stricken deathgrip holding onto it in our minds.
Rehearsing it.
Trying just about anything and everything to get the pain and the memory to stop!
The variables to those issues are far too many to try to tackle in one podcast episode.
But, we can point you to the True and Only Way with the Right Direction...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Why can't I get my mind to be quiet?
What if I don't feel close to God?
I have a hard time trusting.
All of these things are common concerns with a common cause.
Good news... there's a supernatural solution available and provided for us by none other than, Jesus..
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Jesus said, "I saw Satan fall like lightning."
He was giving His disciples His synopsis of their tour throughout Israel, "Doing the Kingdom Stuff."
Well, there's a whole lot of shaking going on right now in the heavenlies.
For all of you who have been praying with us over the past couple of years... "THANK YOU!!!"
There are some powerful testimonies we are about to hearing regarding the divine intervention of God on the human slave and sex trafficking industry.
Let God arise and His enemies be scattered.
Calling all prayer warriors... Keep it up!!!
Don't stop now.
A major blow has been leveled onto the powers of darkness.
We are going to be seeing thousands upon thousands of young people getting set free from that industry!
The future is now!
The best is yet to come!!!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
If 12 people followed you around (literally), full time, 24 hours a day , 365 days a year, for 3 1/2 years what would they look like after 3 1/2 years?
Would they be full of worry and have a judgemnental attitude?
Would they look like God, our heavenly Father (like Jesus/Yeshua revealed to us)?
What is going on inside of us is also going on outside of us!
What is going on outside of you... what's your world like?
Praise God, for some of us it's a true time of revival and awakening to a new and powerfully fresh revelation of God in our Life.
For others, it's SSDD<<< The "Momentum Killer"!
God has already made His choice as to how He is going Live, LIFE for eternity!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
What is "A Brood of Vipers"?
How does salt lose it's saltiness?
What is religion anyway?
Is God a religion?
Is religion the same as relationship?
Why are there so many different denominations in Christianity?
Is Christianity a religion the same as Budhism is a religion?
Did God create religious denominations?
No wonder people get confused and quit looking for real, life-long relationships with God and with one other.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Redemption and lift.
Seeing entire communities change.
What does a real spiritual awakening look like in an entire community of people?
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Persecution isn't the end of the world... it just feels like it sometimes.
People want you to succeed... only so much.
People can be incredibly kind.
People can do some creepy things.
How we handle success and power says a lot about our character.
Are you a person who blesses othger people or are you a person who persecutes other people?
What type of person are you?
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
It's funny what takes place when a person gets a promotion.
Some people celebrate our success.
Other people don't like it.
Why?
That's what this podcast episode is all about.
Except we're not just limited to talking about how other people react to our promotion as it relates to LIFE in the Kingdom of God.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Which came first, the chicken or the egg?
Does it really matter?
In our expereince we've found out that some things matter and some things don't.
Not too profound.
However, knowing the difference is important.
That's what we come in.
We're here pointing out how things really are and some of the things that really matter.
So, kick back, listen, learn, and see what fits.
Then eat the meat, spit out the bones and put the good stuff to good use!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Who in their right mind would call persecution a blessing?
Have you ever really been persecuted?
Persecuted for doing what's right?
It seems backwards and upside down.
That's the nature of the Kingdom of God.
God doesn't do things the same way we do.
His ways are higher than ours.
In the next 12 episodes we are going to be looking at some rather paradoxical, but important things pertaining to our life and lifestyle as citizens of the Kingdom of God.
So, take off your seat belts, kick back for a minute and let's see where God is taking us...
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Have you ever been plagued with a thought or a song you can't get out of your head?
How about a case of hiccups you can't shake.
Or, you can't stop sneezing or yawning.
We all get "stuck" on things are we just can't seem to shake some of the others.
Fear, guilt, and shame can be like that.
We might intellectually understand that God has forgiven us.
However, sometimes there's a residual battle that goes on and it needs to be addressed.
The New Covenant in the Blood of Jesus Christ does that very thing.
God can deliver us from the torment of an oppressed mind!
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
The age old problem of the "have's" and the "have not's" is solved in the New "Cut" Covenant made in the shed Blood of Jesus (all of it... unto death).
People have been fighting over this issue of inequality for as long as there has been time.
The rich keep getting richer and the poor keep getting poorer... except in the New Covenant community.
Those of us who walk in this New Covenant never have to take a seat in the back of the bus again.
We have all been given access to God through the shed blood of Jesus Christ.
He has cut a New Covenant with powerful promises within it.
Being free from the tyranny of being the evil oppressor and being free from being under evil oppression is over... if we know what has been made available to us.
Loving Jesus, Loving people... Come as you are and you will be loved!
Have you ever noticed that there are times in life that are kind of like lining up dominoes?
You knock over one and it creates a chain reaction.
Spiritual life is also like that at times.
Something needs to happen in order for the end result to be accomplished with all of the dominoes involved.
Being pure in heart creates a domino affect throughout our entire lives
I'd rather hear someone say that "things are kind of hard right now" when that's the way things are "right now". Verses hearing them say, "everything is fine" when they aren't "fine" right now.
I've hit a place in this podcast where things are at a stand still for the moment.
I/we stand here waiting on the LORD for His next word for us regarding this podcast series and how He wants it to move forward.
I/we won't put together podcast episodes from our own heads and slap God's name on it.
If it doesn't come from Him, I/we stop and wait until.
Until when?
Yes, until when... when God gives me/us something alive and real to share.
That way, you know the stuff that came before this and the stuff that will come after this have come from God.
Sound like a deal?
Good.
Until whenever... soon I hope!
Without any question, this is the most important episode in this entire series (so far)!
I've thought the "Fat Lady" was getting ready to sing "The Last Song" over my life more than once.
She hasn't, yet!
I can now say, "Thank You God."
I wasn't saying that a few years ago.
It's amazing to me to see the things that God has and is using to bring you and me closer to Him.
T love ando become like Him.
To love and truly be one with us, His people.
However, a lot of the process stuff is pretty personal and can be embarrassing to admit because of it's content.
The fact is we are all a Work In Major Process (WIMP)
WIMPS are called and chosen by God to function in His Kingdom.
Life in His Kingdom invovles us (WIMPS) being available to be used in the area of miracles, signs, and wonders of God.
All of us, WIMPS, have a purpose during and after our process.
Being thick skinned and cold blooded is a major source of inspiration and motivation for a large segment of the population on planet Earth.
I have embraced and lived that way of doing things and called it "really living" life out on my terms.
Where did it lead me?
Beyond being unfulfilled.
I was in bondage to a way of degradation and death.
I couldn't help being the way I was at that time.
It took Jesus to set me free.
He did.
Free indeed!
Now, tender mercies and a pure heart.
The polar opposite of being thick skinned and cold blooded.
The love that a mother (and father) feel toward their, hopoed for and already loved unborn child ia so tender and pure.
The child has done nothing yet to earn or work for that love.
They are just, simply, and deeply loved.
Then come sleepless nights, messy diapers, teething, lying. and the terrible two's.
It's love... just not "tender" love like it was when the baby was still in the womb.
It hadn't done anything wrong, yet and until...
God will be teaching us a lot about excercising "tender" mercy.
Lovingkindness, like it was before everything got crazy.
For those of us who are born again this is a lifetime calling and challenge.
It can be hard at times but it is so worth the growing pains!
A picture is worth a thousand words.
Sometimes a word is worth a thousand pictures.
Take the word "Meek" for example.
How many different ways are there to describe "Meek" or "Meekness"
Stay tuned... you might be both surprised and very fortunate (blessed) to find out.
"Get it all out."
Have you ever really cried real and hard while grieving and mourning?
It's exhausting!
It's exhausting but necessary.
Without mourning we are unhealthy.
We need to get out what is inside so that we don't implode.
It's important to mourn.
"I'm lost and I can't find my way home."
If you've ever been really lost, whether in a city or in the woods, you know the feeling.
The sinking feeling in your stomach.
The sense of panic and fear that wants to suck the air out of your lungs.
The sense of desperation that engulfs your thoughts.
The same goes for us spiritually.
However, unlike being lost in a city or the woods, it's good news when we realize that spiritually we're lost.
Because, the only way we can become aware of our lostness is by the Holy Spirit showing us our true condition.
Then he reveals to us "The Way" home.
It's through walking with Jesus all the Way.
Funny thing what else follows Jesus around; Miracles, signs, and wonders.
They did then and they still do now.
By following Him we get to be part of the demonstration of God's Kingdom on Earth as it is in Heaven.
But it all starts by realizing that we can't save ourselves; we're lost and can't even find our own way home.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Timing Is Everything
Timing is Everything
Timing is everything
timing is everything
I'm quite sure you are a lot like me when it comes to "Getting used to things".
I used to get excited by lifting 200 lbs.
At first it was a big deal.
Now, it's not quite as impressive.
The same can be true regarding the entire sinless life, death, resurrection, and ascension of a man by the name of, Jesus.
That whole picture, of and by itself, is some paradigm shifting, worldview rearranging material.
However, many of us have heard that story so many times we have almost become immune to it's potententcy.
We serve a miraculous King (for those of us who are new creations in Christ).
He is our Greatest example of God's miraclous power, His sign and His wonder... Jesus Christ!
There's a song ELO sings and part of the lyrics go, "I can't get it out of my head".
That song is about a mythical experience with a woman in a vision.
In this episode we are talking about having something "stuck" in our mind's where we just keep thinking about God and His Kingdom.
It's not an obsession.
It's actually something that "hurts so good".
We can't and don't want to stop turning things over and over in our mind.
God says that He will satisfy the longing of those who "mourn".
They/we will be comforted by what we cry out for.
More of Him and His miraculous ways with mighty signs and wonders of His majesty.!
Knowing the source or "head" of a river is important in order to best appreciate where the water originates.
Miracles, signs, and wonders all have an origin.
The one's that come from God originate from Him.
We get to be part of the action.
We are not the source or the "head" of any those amazing things.
We are totally dependant upon God to release them to flow to us and through us.
We are all on a journey as to how we fit into the world history picture of our involvement in the supernatural acts of God.
I have to admit that at least 75 percent (In most of the Wesetern Hemisphere) of what we have called "Miracles, Signs, and Wonders" have been either slick marketing tools, cheap parlor tricks, blatant deception, slight of hand movement or misguided, good intentions.
That has left many of us (myself included) rather sketical and/or jaded.
All of that being said, that still doesn't negate their historical, current or future reality of God being God.
God demonstrates His "Godness"!
God is God.
He didn't, doesn't and won't need my/our approval of or permission for Him being God.
God is not me.
I am not God.
I serve God.
Praise God.
Miracles, Signs and Wonders will transpire because God has chosen to do things that way.
His will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven!
His Kingdom come!!!
True, godly unity is way better than mere uniformity or unnamity.
True unity often takes time along with a willingness to change.
Ironically unhealthy, worldly unity involves the same things.
It's a matter of whether we choose Eternal Life or Eternal Death.
I choose LIFE.
The Life that Jesus provides... Eternal Life.
I am willing to go through whatever changes are necessary in order for God to feel comfortable in my heart making it whole and holy.
Then my heart can join your heart with a clean surface for God to use as He fuses us into being One Body!
Earth is a unique experience.
It's nothing like I thought it would be.
It's way more real!
It's rather effortless at times for me to remember the hurts other people have inflicted upon me.
It's also ironic how quickly I can forget things that are important, eternal, and impacting insights to live by.
I used to think my mixed up thinking was due to my previous, excessive, "partying" lifestyle.
Some of it is.
I now believe a lot of it was and is actually spiritual warfare.
Some type of external attempt trying hard to prevent the Kingdom of God from happening to me and through me.
Short-term memory loss along with a twisted ability to dwell on the negative can be, at times. attributed to malevolent spiritual beings interacting with the world we live in.
Fortunately, God is the "Supreme Leader and the True Victor"!
His will, will be done and His Kingdom will come on Earth as it is in Heaven.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen!
Praise God that "unity" is part of His will for us and His Kingdom Lifestyle!
Sometimes feeling squezzed or feeling like life is a pressure cooker can lead a person to think that they've done something wron.
That's not always the case.
Sometimes it's because we're doing things correctly.
Sometimes we go through certain things because something more important is being developed that we can't see at the moment.
Take unity for example.
Some types of unity only take place as a result of us being "prepared" for it.
Some of the preparation can feel hard... because it is.
Be encouraged.
It is not in vain if true unity is the end result.
God commands His blessing of His quality of Life to be in the midst of a united people.
His Presence makes all the pain worthwhile!
The statement, "Something good will come out of this." doesn't really do to much for me when I'm going through a "swamp life" experience.
I know it's said with good intentions.
It still just doesn't cut it for me.
I need to see proof for myself sometimes.
Well, that's what this podcast episode is all about.
Saddle up and let's go for a ride...
Coal Dust.
A person doesn't have to do anything nefarious to get coal dust on them if they work in a coal mine.
Just by working in it you get dirty.
The same goes with living on planet Earth.
Sin is all around us, like coal dust.
Ugly disharmony and senseless divisions are no different than murder (if you get right down to it).
We need to see a people who aren't covered in coal dust.
We need to see and be a people who love Jesus our Messiah and are truly united in Him.
We need unity, not political uniformity.
Some celebrities will attend "the opening of an envelope" just to be seen.
Some people will cause divisions just to be involved in a "good fight" over who's right.Being right sometimes is only in a person's proud head.
Pride is typically at the core of most all divisions that people create.
Who's more "right" than the other person.
At the expense of what?
Our children?
Our relationships?
What?
Enough!
the change needs to start with me.
And it has.
How about you?
Come on in, the water's fine!
It's amzing how much being encouraged from someone can really make a difference.
Encouragement is good.
I love it!
We get to provide needed courage to someone via a word of "encouragement".
"Encourage" means: "To gove courage".
Let's be risk takers and be willing to express a word of encouragement from God through us to someone else.
Give it a try and see what happens.
I like where I was born in Minnesota.
I like where I grew up.
I like where I live in Florida.
I like being 63 years old.
I like the USA
I love being born-again.
I love my new citizenship in the Kingdom of God (it's my first priority).
I love having the divine nature and eternal life of God (Right Now)!
Please take a moment and pray with me concerning 2 things that affect all of us wherever we live.
Let's be part of the solution instead of just pointing out the problems or doing nothing them at all.
Sometimes it's not only enjoyable it's commanded by God or it's an extemely intense desire within us to just be wide-open!
Wide-open meaning: being able to express yourself freely without any reservations, concerns or inhibitions - being filled with God not drunk with alcohol!
I say, "YES"!!!
However, being the person who can be either too guarded or too free with information about themselves and others can and will attract con-people and sharks (predators).
We need to be wise and wide-open.
That's what this podcast is all about...
It's obvious that we are in very troubled times.
Praise the LORD!
Halleilujah!!!
Shout for joy unto the Lord.
He is good.
His mercy is everlasting and His love endures forever!
It means, Jesus is coming back very soon.
Maranatha, Praise our King and our God!
We must pray and keep praying.
God has commanded us tp pray.
He has not given us a good idea to think about.
Prayer is perhaps our most powerful means of communication we have.
Please, take a few minutes, listen to this episode and pray with me.
What we pray for will take place if we trust, believe and obey our Lord Jesus Christ.
It takes the Presence of God to accomplish only what God can do.
It's amazing that He has chosen us to do it .
He does it to us and through us.
That includes true, unity.
Unity, not uniformity.
Unity, not a peaces treaty.
Unity, not a contract.
Unity, God's definition and way of unity.
The harvest of lives needs to see a healthy community of believers.
Community = Common Unity = Co Unity = Co Operate
"Doing the stuff" can often seem mundane and quite practical.
Like gladly helping out your fellow believer by periodically, happily, watching their children for a few hours, so they can get some rest (or whatever).
No charge and without bragging about it to others.
Changing the oil for a single mom.
Free, with no strings attached.
Opening the car door for your wife.
Naturally and consistantly especially when noone else is looking.
Paying for your fellow believers lunch.
Just for fun and provide a big tip when you leave.
You get the point.
God doesn't need us to advertise His love.
He wants us to demonstrate His love in everything we do.
Especially to others in the family of God!
So that the world may see for themselves the love of God in motion and say "I want and need what you have."
Unity, not uniformity, is the call of God for us to live in and live by.
He loves unity... true unity.
Pseudo-unity is a farce.
Man-made, manufactured attempts at unity eventually lead to oppression and uniformity.
Fake unity always ends up with (again) an even greater divide between the haves and the have nots.
Love, God's love is at the core of all, true unity.
The only true way unity thrives is with a focus that is placed on God.
We need to practice living unity out in a radicalyl (core), intentional way.
That is the path we are on in this podcast.
The only way to getting better at "doing the stuff" is to start practicing obedience and actually begin "doing the stuff" because Jesus "did the stuff".
Imitate Jesus.
What if I make a mistake?
You will.
Many times.
Just go back and ask the Teacher (Jesus) why it didn't work.
Be kind, humble and loving to all people.
Minister to everyone who comes to you or who God points out to you.
Don't come across as a obnoxious, "know it all".
Be confident, not arrogant.
Be prepared and don't procrastinate.
Be ready for the times where you can no longer contain the magnificent Presence of the LORD.
Be prepared for Jesus to perform the things only God can express through the impact of His Kingdom to you and through you on Earth as it is in Heaven.
Removing the negative influence of the fear of people/man is best done by the love of God crowding it out from the inside out.
Perfect love (God's love) casts out all fear.
To be fearful of others is proven to be a spiritual snare that is designed to choke God's life giving Word and Kingdom out of us.
God saves us from being ensnared by fear.
Learning to live without ungodly fear is a process worth pursuing.
Be encouraged.
Be a real, risk taker/faith walker!
A mob mentality can be rather intoxicating.
Riots often take on a life larger than one individual.
Crowd courage is an old trick that is still being used today.
The true, resurrection Life of God is no joke, no ploy, no gimmick or trick.
The Kingdom of Heaven does not move forward because of violence, politics or personality hype!
It is God's Kingdom governed by God and demonstrated by His Spirit in and through us.
There is a huge, eternal difference!
If we wait until we know everything for sure... without a doubt, before we do anything risky; we won't do anything.
To walk in faith is to be a risk taker.
I'd rather make a mistake trying to be obedient than doi nothing because I'm afraid of doing something wrong!
God will resurrect unto Himself everything and everyone that belongs to Him.
If it's His, it will be resurrected to Eternal Life. If not... it has another outcome and it isn't Eternal Life.
If the purpose or vision that has died in your life is from God, it had to die (for many reasons) and then be resurrected (at various times throughout our life).
It takes a deep trust and a vibrant, living, loving relationship with God in order to trust Him with resurrecting something precious to us that died... not a fake death.
A real death and a real resurrection.
We get to experience a downpayment of that eternal inhertence now.
Praise God!
God is not a phony and He isn't into producing fakes or knock offs.
God is an Original... in fact He is "The Original".
There are times in our lives when we will experience the reality of starting all over, again.
This episode is designed to help provide some insight for you if that is what is taking place in your life right now.
Sometimes starting over is exicting and enjoyable. Other times, starting over is very hard and challenging. How we approach transitions in life is important. This episode begins a 3 part series on "Change". I know for sure that this information will benefit at least 1 person.
This is for everyone who has or has ever had a problem that just won't go away. If so, you just might find a solution in this episode!
Things are changing so fast around us it makes my head spin.
Some changes are for the better.
While others are...
Somne of us have been just about spiritually dead.
Things are changing.
Take a listen to this word of hope!
"What I need is a change... I can't stand this place. The people here drive me nuts. I hate my boss!"
Thoughts and words like that are all over the place regarding a variety of different situations ranging from vocations to relationships.
Changing locations or relationships never solves a problem.
The only way to solve the problem is to deal with it.
Only you and God can truly change the way you do things.
He will, if we ask Him.
It doesn't take wisdom to point out a problem.
It takes wisdom to live out a solution to a problem.
Wisdom is one of the supreme aquisitions in Life.
Be more than just samat, be wise.
True, healthy wisdom first comes from God.
Timing is everything.
Don't fool yourself.
Helping other people requires wisdom and timing.
It's one thing to say, "I'm sorry I stole your rake." It's quite another thing to say, "I'm sorry I stole your rake. I'd like to buy you a nice leaf blower and a rake." Making things right sometimes involves more than just words... it takes some other type of action. That's what this podcast is all about... Making things right one another (with God first, of course).
It can be devastating to have to say to someone, "I fell flat on my face, again."
Anyone who has ever or is struglling with addiction knows the shame, guilt and fear that go along with that nemesis.
How many times?
To many times to count.
I have often felt like the boy who cried wolf.
Dozens, if not more, of starts and stops.
Get up, fall down.
Thank God there actually is a way of true and lasting freedom.
It found in relationship.
Relationship with God!
Find out more...
Have you ever been the person who refused to call a problem a problem.?
Maybe you've called it a difference of opinion.
Or, maybe you've said, I'm not the one with the problem, you're the one with the problem.
Or, last but not least, maybe you've said, I wish people would just get off my back!
We've all heard the "Denial is not the river (Nile) that runs through Egypt."
In this episode we are addressing the solution to living in denial.
So that we can actually experience true freedom from the things that have kept us bound to destruction.
Too many years of my life were spent on me plucking the fruit and leaves off of my tree of addictions in hopes that they wouldn't grow back. But, they did, every time. Until... I got to the root and invited God to help me kill it. He did, I did and the some fruit is actually, now dead and a couple areas of the remaining ones are dying. Those that have died are not coming back (and it's been long enough for me and those close to me to notice). So, I'm here (it's by choice and not for money) to share not only my story but to help provide some help.
Have you ever been presented with something and later found out that you didn't get the whole picture when it was first presented to you... like a house that was a money pit? Well that happens all the time with spiritual things/life. This episode will hopefully provide you with a clear understanding about what following the Leadship and Life of Jesus Christ is all about. This is with you in mind...
You can always tell who your Lord/Boss/Leader is and who you are following by the lifestyle you are living and the actions/fruit/character it produces.
You can't get an apple from a thornbush or an orange from a tumbleweed.
Who is your Lord?
Look around and see what you are producing.
Hopefully you like what you see.
If you don't, I'm here to tell you that you can change, just not all on your own.
I remember one of the first times I said, "Praise the Lord" out loud and I meant it... I was nervous and a little bit shy. I loved Him. But, I had seen alot of people, what I classified as phonies, running around and making serving God look dumb. I didn't want to be lumped into their group.
Now I know that just because someone made saying that look kind of creepy didn't negate the reality and the wonder of His Lordship. is supreme.. not just "The Man Upstairs"... He is: LORD/BOSS/MASTER/KING/RULER OVER ALL/MAJESTY!
Who's the big boss at where you work? What's he/she like? How often do you meet privately with them? What do they like to do? Do they like you as a person? What's your retirement plan and is your boss involved in any future plans? Do you want them to be? Are we done with these questions, yet?
We are done asking except for these two: 1) What if Jesus Christ were literally the Big Boss over you and your entire crew, even the competition?
The truth is, He is!
2) How will that affect the way you live your daily life?
"Finally", the man said to me, "You stopped beating aroundthe bush. Yes, I'd love to help you set up those chairs." You get the picture. We all need to have things made real clear to us at times. It's not always comfortable but neither is weeding the garden. This podcast series is going to cause some folks to stop listening to us. That's not our desired intent but it is a reality we knew about when we started. However, I wouldn't be able to sleep at nights or look at myself in the mirror if I didn't share these truths with you. Without any further delay: The Lordship Of Jesus Christ!
I have never actually seen someone use a stick and start beating around a box elder bush unless they were on drugs. Then, I've seen things way crazier things than that one.
Come to find out "beating around the bush" is term for an old English hunting method of beating a bush to drive out the game that was being hunted. Well, apparently there were better methods of getting the job done... a more direct approach. So we now have the term "beating around the bush." That's kind of like what this episode is about, maybe. So, come on in and see if you can make any sense of what's being served up...
I'm sure we've all experienced the anticipation of doing something fun. My mom, worked hard as a Nurses Aid in a Nursing Home for well over 25 years of her adult life. Somehow, every summer, she would begin unveiling a 2 week vacation that she had saved and planned for all year. It was going to be a real, good time. Once I knew about it I started counting the days. I wanted to experience the life on the road again. I wanted to experience all the change I could handle.This podcast episode concludes this 3 part series on how the timing and details of some of God's plans create an environment of signifucant change in our lives. It's how we respond to it that will make a huge difference in how we live life.
Can you remember being a kid and thinking that you didn't have to grow old... we could stop aging whenever we wanted? I did. Once in awhile things were so cool and so much fun I never wanted it to end. Well, that was then and this is now. Change is a reality of life. How I handle change will actually determine the quality and condition of all my relationships. What type of person am I am I like to be in relationship with? What source am I allowing to create change in my life?
"Change"... love it, hate it or try to leave it alone. No matter what, it's gonna happen. It's what we do about it that matters. It would be horrible if we couldn't change, though. We need change. Whether we love it, hate it or try to leave it alone it will periodically affect each one of us.
We can all use a good, healthy slice of encouragement. Well, here's some more, hot out of the oven...
The old, "Are you gonna fish or just cut bait?" question is presented to each of us at different times in our lives. How we answer that "question" often affects how we will live our lives for many days, weeks, months, even years to follow. Like most of you, I am a true, blue, washed in the blood of Jesus, bona fide filled with and led by the Spirit of God person. My deep love, devotion and worship are freely given to my heavenly Father. What about you?
One thing Jesus never did when telling a story was to "pull their leg". You know, tell them "a whopper", "pull the wool overe their eyes", or do the old "just kidding" move. He knew how and when to laugh, cry, get angry, etc. He never tried to trick someone into doing something. He came to express what our heavenly Father is really like... visibly, as a grown man, old enogh to be your Father if you were a kid. This episode is for all people who simply want to know God and grow in a real relationship with Him.
We don't need a formal education to tell our story. If we hold a Doctorate we can tell our story. People love hearing a good story. Stories are powerful ways to communicate all kinds of meaningful and enjoyable things. Let's tell the truth and tell our stories!
This episode is the last of a series on doing a helicopter overview of life. So, climb on and let's take this bird for a ride...
One morning you go to start your car and it won't turn over. You get a jump start and let it run for a couple of minutes to charge up but your car runs out of gas. That is pretty extreme on one hand. On the other hand it makes for a great illustration regarding life on Earth... it can be, is and will be like this until Jesus returns. ..Earth is a drain on all of us. Earth, the broken, brutal, dog-eat-dog world we live in drains us mentally, spiritually, emotionally, physically, finanacially, etc. We don't stay full. We need to keep getting a re-supply or we will eventually run dry. Many of us know that feeling, spiritually far too, well. This episode is designed to help provide a couple of reminders or new insights on how to get and stay filled up or "refilled".
Stop, Listen, & Obey... Sounds pretty straight forward. It is. This is some good, healthy foundational aspects of living a fruitful, Spirit-filled Life. I encourage you to do a brief review of a couple of areas of life that are beneficial to revisit every now and then. Take care and enjoy the helicopter ride!
Being a Worry Wart is a rather awkward moniker to have. But, many of us wear it quite often. I, for one, got sick of carring that albatross around my neck. How about you? This episode gives a qiuck look at a sure remedy for worrying. I highly recommend you tune in and turn somneone you love on to this episode...
What happens when you run out of your own abilities, time and options? We live in a world that, by nature, is a drain on our minds, emotions, bodies and spirits. We can get drained by doing absolutelty nothing except waking up and working like normal. It's like living in a coal mine. We get coal dust on us just by being in the mine. We can get drained just by living in a broken, dying, hurting and lost world. We need to be able to hold onto something and get filled with New Life over and over again. Otherwise we walk around weak and anemic spiritually and emotionally. This episode visits some "how to's" on this whole thing of being filled with the Spirit of God and walking in His strength and power.
Have you ever run out of gas or had a battery get low and die on you? I'm sure you know what I'm talking about. The same can be true of us spiritually. We run out of gas or get drained by the sheer fact that we live in a world that has that affect on us. How does one go about getting refilled up or recharged? We provide a couple of tipson that very thing in this episode. So, do your thing while you enjoy this episode...,
Walk straight and fly right... The things we get to do now are so much, more meaningful than the things we don't do anymore. However, that's not to say that getting rid of old ways of doing things is always comfortable or without some backlash. The small price we pay for eliminating things so that our lives align with God and be filled with His Life and His Spirit is miniscule in comparrison to the type of Life He leads and provides us to live in and to live out..
God's peace, the type of peace that He has, is available to us. God's peace that is imparted to us who are in Christ is stronger/greater than any external pressure/storm that comes our way. How that is activated is a great tool to have in today's world. I literally don't (or at least I try real hard to remember) leave home without it...
When you think about it, we all have a variety of ways we speak without saying a word out loud. A nod, a smile, making a face at a baby, our presence, our moods, etc. God is a Being that has the same abilities and more... other than audible communication. In fact, it seems like most of the things in life are non-verbal boith with us and with God. It's just that we live in a noisy, cluttered, broken world. It not only can be, it is a challenge to quiet things down in the culture that we live in. Regardless, if we want to grow and develop in our relationship with God and one another we need to be able to dial things down, find a quiet place and do a fair amount of listening to what seems like nothing but internal voice noise... until it stops. Then the Holy Spirit oif God can begin to communicate to us in His God-unique ways. Let's see what this episode has in it about that stuff...
What we do today may not be seen or fully developed for years. It takes time. Sometimes we forget about the fact that what we say and do is like planting seeds. They/it grows. We can also forget that we have intentionally "planted/sown" something good in life and only to find out that years later it has developed into something absolutely amazing. Sowing into the future. Take a few minutes and find out if this episode has a nugget or two of truth in it for you to live by, today...
There is no right side or wrong side to getting out of bed. The fact of the matter is, we all have challenges in life that we don't like and they can come our way and stay. How they impact us or we impact them is up to me and you. God has already decided on how to handle things and has offered to us His solution. So, what's it going to be? Is it going to be just a bad day? Or does it have the potential of becoming a bad day that leads to a bad week, that leads to a bad month, year, decade, 1/2 century... lifetime? If your interested in exploring some options with a solution perhaps you might find some of that for you in this episode...
It's an amazing place, that space between our temples/ears. I have accomplished a lot of stuff without ever leaving my couch, or so I imagined. I have had fights, made the winning goal, flew around the world in an old abandon car... all in my head. Our thought life is something worth looking into for another few minutes. Let's see what's on the menu for this episode...
We could go on for days, weeks, lifetimes for that matter, addressing this thing we call, "Anger". This episode is much like telling yourself stuff you already know but might have neglected to live out or have forgotten. Regardless, this is a brief rundown of how anger impacts our lives on a relational level. I hope it scratches an itch for you or helps you, and those who relate to you, out in some way...
It's amazing the various types and containers spiritual growth in our lives comes in. I, personally, never would have chosen or imagined "Thanksgiving" as being one of the big ones. It's huge! I invite you to kick back and review a couple of things in life along with me and the rest of the other folks "around the house".
It is an incredible blessing and honor to be able to serve all/anyone of you. You are a treasure first to God and then to me, as well. I take it to heart when it comes to putting together this simple but, clear channel of communication. Thank God. Thank you for tuning in and please share this podcast with someone else who might benefit from the goodies found inside. God bless you and I love you...
We all need a reminder about something whether it's to pick something up from the store or to tell somebody about something important. We all need to be reminded in life. This episode is kind of like a spiritual reminder about some pretty important stuff. So, grab a beverage and enjoy another episode of Life Around "The Fire".
We grow spiritually by telling others our story. What's your story? Someone both wants and needs you to share your story with them. ask God to help you put together a story of how you got to where you are today. If you can't think of one you are in for a treat... if you can you are in for a treeat... I guess we're all in for a treat... That's what this episode is all about...
It's pretty amazing to think how the diffculties and hardships that I have previously experienced are now part of the true story of the loving, powerful intervention and deliverance God in his goodness has given to me. He has done what I was incapable of doing... setting me free from destructive forces that were stronger than me. Praise God! That's what this episode is all about... beauty from ashes!
The thing about life is... It's so. it's so, daily. Living for the next event or living for the weekend can lead to burnout real quick. What we do with the other 364 days out of the year make today very a important day. The key to living a healthy growing spiritual life, throughout our life, is found in the Word/Heart of God. I hope you will find a healthy dose of that Truth in this episode...
The internal and external devastation, pain and brokeness a person encounters in life has one distinct, common feeling: I don't think I can take "it" anymore. If you know about this personally or know someone who is experiencing the pain of being broken hearted and let down in life please take this or share this episode in hopes that it will provide a little (or a lot) of help.
Not, too, long ago I became rather surprised and a little upset to hear how much noise I was allowing to go on inside of my head. It kind of felt and sounded like rush hour in New York City. I knew I needed to get a grip and do something about that. This podcast episode gives you a peak at how I'm going about that these days...
Have you ever heard something you've heard a hundred times before but ten there was that one time when it all came together and you really understood what you'd heard before but didn't really understand? I think that some of that kind of stuff is going on in this episode. You tell me...
What we say and what we see is what we get... it's a matter of how well and how much do of it!
It's hard for a full, grown, well-educated adult to look dignified being on roller skates for the first time (ever). I remember my "baptism" on wheels at the age of 12. I stood up on my roller skates and proceeded to gyrate all over the place only to ultimately fall down hard on my rear end. That's a little bit like experiencing some "changes" in our way of looking at things. If it's new and different it can feel a bit undignified and awkward. This episode assures you that you are not alone if you have ever felt awkward in the face of a "paradigm shift".
Have you ever been sure that your idea was the best idea out of a group of other ideas? I have. I have been correct several times in my life regarding things like that one (I'm now 63 years old) . I've also been wrong... even though I thought...
This episode takes a look at how that sometimes shakes out spritually in our lives.
In this podcast episode we are taking time to review and comment on how some things are transpiring and developing spiritually in North America 2022. I hope this proves to be insightful and practical when it comes to living out your daily life.
What if EVERYTHING Jesus Christ ever said, did or is saying and doing is absolutely TRUE for yesterday, today and forever? Why is that even remotely relevant for me to know now? I offer a simple way to find out. ASK HIM!
"Play it like you mean it and can actually feel it." These were wise words given to me by one of my best music teachers, ever.. .Art Hill. I was one of his students and players in The Hibbing High School (Award Winning) Marching Band! Bob Dylan (I was the 2nd) was one of my heroes and my claim to fame was to be like him... except, I played the Tuba. Yup, I was that guy with the big, white bell, looking, loud, low sounding thing. Well, I played the tuba like I meant it and felt it and I became good. The Psalms in the Bible are meant to be expressed with excellance and spoken out like we mean them and feel them. So, grap your instruments and let's do it!!!
What we do, whether we like it or not, affects everyone around us and more! Also, we reproduce after our own kind. So, how many more of you would you like running around? Have you ever been grabbed by someone who is being electrocuted? answers to those questions and more on todays podcast episode. Enjoy...
Jesus wants us to be informed about the Kingdom of God. He wouldn't have spent so much time expressing it's words and works to us if IT weren't of the utmost importance both as a warning and as being full of Good News for living LIFE!
I've seen far too, many people drive good people away, good people getting driven into the ground by trying to do and be too, much for others and some who do nothing at all. Don't fool yourself... you and I can't drive people to doing more, do it all ourselves or just can't sit by and do nothing. So...
Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired sounds rather clicheish to me. Finding yourself in a real, deep world of hurt when you were actually just trying to have a good time is a real gear grinder in life. We all face it. What do we do about it? You just might find an answer or two just for you in this episode...
Enquiring minds want to know: What "farming method" and "seed company" am I using for my spiritual life garden? Let's take a look...
Our words, along with all of our other actions, carry a lot of power. Who needs a gun when you have our tongue? Who needs an explosive when you have a penis or vagina? You get the point. Now, let's get our "poop in a group" and see the LIFE/WORD/KINGDOM of GOD planted, grown and harvested in the world we live in and the WORLD of GOD to come!
We've all had at least one of those moments when you just "knew" you needed to see, say, hear or do something. That's what's going on with this episode. I got up at 4:00 AM EST becuause God wanted me to see, say, hear and do something for just for someone... you. Yes, I not only believe in things like that, I know that they are a factual truth. You are in for a treat...
There's an old saying about staying true to your values, practices and priorities in life.. It is: "Dance with the one who brung you"! If worshipping and obeying the One, True God brings about spiritual growth and freedom in your life...
I remember thinking as a kid that I could stop growing and choose a point in time when I could stay just like I was forever. Things change! Sometimes for the better. Sometimes, not so much. On the other hand, I remember as a kid wondering once, when I had a horrible case of the flu, if I would ever feel good again. Things change! That's what this episode is all about; that "point in time" when the beginning meets the end. Things change!
If I were God this whole thing would have been over with a long time ago. That's why I'm not God. And, that's why you aren't either... or at least not mine.
This episode contains within it what is known as "prophetic insight".
It's a glimpse into the spiritual realm that God is allowing me to see.
The primary purpose is so that I can say something beneficial to you pertaining to some of the amazing things that you might not be able to see quite yet... but, very, very soon.
All I can say is, "Let go and let God."
The statement: "Man looks at the outward appearances while God looks at the heart" is true. I was recently asking God about something I didn't understand about Him. He lovingly and simply said to me that at times we see things differently. Neither you nor I have the final say so when it comes to how things turn out on any given day. The sooner we understand that we are not the ones in control of things the better off we all will be. Our best, highest, most meaningful place to be is in the worship of God, Most High and obedience to His Word, His Will and His Way...
We are designed to be able to both receive and give love. Love that is expressed by us to God is what is known as worship. Worshipping God is our highest and most powerful purpose in life. Worship is a living expression of our loving, sacrificial devotion to God, The obedience to God that follows our worshipping of Him leads to being empowered by His Spirit to do great and mighty things... even if we are afraid at first!
Sometimes the truth/answer is so simple we miss it... sometimes we forget. Hopefully this episode will give you something to consider. This is true whether you run into some difficulties or some incredibly good turn of events or victories come your way. It's foundational to truly living life...
Every once in awhile it's good to hear an encouraging word concerning someone we love and respect. We hear plenty from the other side of the coin. This is my word of encouragement about someone I both dearly love and can now respect.. me!
When it comes to certain things in life what a parent does in moderation, their children will do in excess. The sexual promiscuity (worship of sex) that has crept its way into the church in the western hemisphere has reached its limit. That goup of peoole who brought it in was quietly while others tolerated as a moderate thing have long, since died. However, what they introduced didn't stay moderate, it grew. It grew through our childern and their children until...
Worship is the most powerful, important and eternal thing we can and will ever do.
False worship is more vile, heinouse and gross than any other thing we can ever do.
It is more blashemous than adultery, stealing, lying, murdering, raping, incest, etc.
Worship is our highest priority...
While I was in an in-house, Drug/Alcohol Rehab Program at Baptist Hospital, Downtown Jacksonville, FL. I had a delirium tremens hallucination of a woman who was gazing at a poem that was engraved in a mesmerizing, highly polished, black, onyx, obelisk, rotating on a circular, wooden, lathe-turned, stand surrounded by faint, changing, rainbow-colored, lighting.
She was worshipping the person who was seducing her; adoring him while was he deceiving her.
Enlivened by the feelings of being appreciated, valued, complimented, and understood by someone… Communication ensued and gradually developed into a more involved relationship.
This is the core of the culture in Israel. It has crept into the Church in the Western hemisphere... the worship of false/other gods.
Words carry power. Who, what, when, where, why and how all come into play when considering the impact of our conversations and our actions come into play. It's those things that motivate us to get up and out of bed each day. Your motivations for living life are: ...
This episode contains material that is a prelude to a very important series of events that will be taking place soon on an international scale with a worldwide impact. It's an important, preperatory step necessary in order for the Hand and the Word of the LORD to accomplish Him (re)establishing worship through us on Earth as it is in Heaven. It's my priviledge and responsibility to provide this episode for you today. I will be announcing a call to be a member of 300 people who (for a brief period) will purposefully set apart a set time of 15 minutes on 7 different occasions to offer up prayer and worship to the LORD. Stay tune up and tuned in...
It's not always what is spoken, but how it's said and who said it that makes the biggest difference. Who is the source of the spirtual information of our spiritual lives? How is it being delivered to us? Enquiring minds want to know...
Do you hear God speaking to you? Have you ever heard God speak to you? Do you want God to speak to you so that you can hear Him? There are some things in this episode that could be quite useful to you should you find yourself wanting to "hear" from the LORD at any time in the near future...
Have you ever caught yourself talking over somebody? You're so focused on what it is that's going on in your own head that you cant really hear what the other person is saying so you kind of talk right over them? Have you ever had that happen to you? If you haven't, it will. When it does try to remember what you heard in this episode...
This episode contains some material that might be offensive... We love you so that's why we're giving you a heads up and keeping you in the loop...
If you like true stories that are meaningful, apllicable and interesting... you're going to love this 6 part series on the life of Gideon (taken from Judges 6 - 12). Bon Apetit'...
It's a sin to bore people with the Gospel of the Kingdom of God... I gurantee you will not be bored listening to these podcast episodes. God has woken me up and He has been in the process of "waking up" all of His Body of Believers from around the world for the past several decades to function, advancing His Kingdom while worshipping Him and loving one another as One! That's what we're all about here...
It's funny, in an ironic kind of way, how history has a way of repeating itself. Perhaps I'm just old enogh now to begin really seeing/realizing how true that is. We're going to look back into the life of a Biblical character world history knows as Gideon (Jerubbaal/Jerobaal). We are going to see some unnerving and undeniable similarities to our current Western Hemisphere culture and that of the Babylonians/Amorites. FYI... Things are going to get a little dicey...
Have you ever had that feeling in your gut that God can see things in your life that you can't see or don't want to look at and He isn't going to let a situation rest until it's completely taken care of... even if it takes the rest of our lives? If so, you're in for a treat. If you don't know what I'm taliking about you're in for a treat... just not quite yet (pay attention anyway).
It's amazing what we do for the approval of people! It's eqally amazing to see that we never, really get the approval we were looking for. There must be more to life than being preoccupied with what "they' think...
Have you ever been in a real, honest to goodness brawl and come out on the losing end of it? Not only that, but the reason you lost was your fault to begin with. Did you learn anything good from it? Take a look with me and see if you can identify with at least one point in this episode...
It's not always easy being truthful when lying seems like a constant option (and it is). Why be truthful if it creates pain when you can lie and help prevent the pain from happening? This podcast episode contains some personal material that is beneficial but, it carries a pretty big punch... Beware, truth be told...
If you were to describe what "the truth" looked like today, how would you describe it? With that in mind, let's see what this episode has to say about it...
Like nature, we abhor a vacuum. If you take something away you have to fill the empty space back up or another way will be found to fill it if you don't. Life is not lived in a vacuum. What we put into that empty space once something is removed is a very important ingredient. That's what this podcast episode is all about. Part I of III...
Why have you ever lied? Who taught you how to lie? What is a lie? I'm about done with this whole lying thing! Really... this is last last episode (for now) on the topic of "Lies". I'm sure it will be beneficial in several ways. So, get it while it's hot...
Now that was a "real good lie"! Is there such a thing as "a good lie"? Does, "He Was A Good And Faithful Liar" make for a good epithet? White lies? Big lies? Little lies? Whoppers? Fish Stories? Lies... Guess what this podcast episode is about for today and tomorrow? Yup, lies. Nope, they'll mostly be on the TRUTH...
Have you ever been fooled, tricked,cricized, lied to, caught up in an argument, bamboozeld, hood-winked, had the wool pulled over you eyes, or something like that? Ihave; big time!
Once, a friend of mine got so bamboozeld that while it was happeneing to him another gang membe stole/pick-pocketed his wallet without him realizing it until we were several blocks away from them.
You'll get the correlation as you listen to the podcast episode....
Everything in life is not always "good, great or fine"! Sometimes life hurts, is negative, diappointing or dull. If you never know what it feels like to be operating on a lower freuency you never know it when it's really like to function on a higher one. If it's never bad what does that say about the rest of us? Also, it's important to be able to let others know how you feel. It allows someone the opportunity to help. We all need to be real enough to say to God and one another that we need help and for us to be available to be useful in helping those in a place of need. That's what this episode is all about...
Love is the Key Element to the stuff that makes up the Presence of the LORD! IT'S the Way that we respond to His Love, His Presence that ultimately determine the condition and location of our lives eternally. Please, read those statements again.
Who we are, what we do, how we do it, where we do it and when we decide what we're going to do about the unbridled Presence of God is very practical and meaningful pertaining to all aspects of Life, now and forever... starting now...
John Fitzenbert wasa a dog trainer and he wrote a helpful book. One of his points has become a very popular 1 liner (internet homework). This episode is filled with some lines of communication that have stayed with me for a long time. Some of them are rather light and others are kind of impacting in a heavier, deeper way. I hope you enjoy unpacking some of the goodies we have for you today...
Have you ever cleaned up a room only to come back in an hour or less and find it cluttered and messy? How can a tree that produces bad fruit get chopped down only to grow back and eventually produce more of that nasty fruit? How is that spiritually applicable to our lives? I'm glad you asked. Stay tuned and you'll find out...
We are all surrounded by countless distractions every day... each of them vying for our attention. Why? In this podcast episode we are going to address one of the major ones that most of us deal with or have dealt with in life.
Some things take a bit of time getting used to while other things seem to fit comfortably, just like your favorite pair of old shoes. The same goes with "dwelling/living together" with someone and picking out new appliances or other household furnishings. It can take some getting used to or it fits right in. for you This podcast episode is all about God making Himself at home, dwelling/living with/in us. So, while you're listening make yourself right at home...
It's an awesome privilege for me, "the Dad," to introduce his Son, one of our new, regular, special podcast guests: Aaron Huotari. Aaron is going to share part of his "story" with us today. I know that you will be both inspired and encouraged. So, without any further delay...
We've all had a case of "the blues" every now and then. I don't think anybody relishes those times at all. For some of us, the reality of an even different type of depression or despondency is a periodic or can possibly be a constant thing. In the deepest, most dificult aspects of depression we can, at times, face the notion of "suicide". We will be looking at this topic, "suicide" because of it's current growth in numbers in the taking of human lives. We need to be available and open about how we can and will address this if/when it happens to us. That's one of the reasons why this podcast exists... to help!
Has saying and/or living out saying the word "No" ever been a problem for you? Has the inability to say "No" ever created a real negative set of circumstances for you? Has the ability to say and mean saying the word "No" ever been wise and beneficialfor you? That's the kind of stuff addressed in this podcast episode. I/we know it will benefit you in many ways. So, here we go...
I'm glad I can actually feel someone loving me. Their presence lets me know that they are there with me. I can feel it... I know it. The same goes with God (and then some). It is wise for us (as best as we can) to prepare to meet God now. One day, regardless of our condition in life when it intially happens to us, we will meet God. In this episode we cover some important preparatory things pertaining to us being prepared to experience more and more of God's presence until we are resurrected from the dead and then we get IT all... The Presence Of The LORD!
Literally, while I was having a conversation with (praying to) God, He told me that He wanted me to specifically highlight this portion of His Word, 1 John 1:5-2:2 and dig out some nuggets of applicable truth for the world we live in today. He said that there were a few people who would be listening to this podcast who really needed to hear this and they would greatly benefit from it. So, here it is...
Have you ever met someone who always needs to look good, get other peoples approval and be correct? Maybe you are one of those folks and wonder why you just can't seem to connect with God or other people. Maybe you are a human being listening to this and that's not your style, but you still need a little "tune up" in the old relationship department. This episode is designed with you in mind. Take a minute and perhaps something here will be of interest and benefit...
What makes me gravitate to certain things? Why do certain things just seem to find me? This podcast episode throws some light onto those type of questions. It's a precursor to more unveiling of the presence of the LORD> If you've never heard of anything like this, Hold On, you're in for a paradigm shift/life changing event! If you have been schooled in The University of Transformation in Life, then enjoy some healthy review. I hope this episode is food for your soul!
Real friends are very valuable and hard to come by. The man on the interview (Dale) and I have been good, real friends for over 30 years. That's almost unheard of in today's culture. 30 days is a long time sometimes. Take a listen and see what happens!
Have you ever run out of gas in your car? Well, you're not alone. Have you ever run out of words trying to describe something? You're not alone. Even at our best attempts with a full tank of words regarding God we run out of words. But, just like in cars and gas or other things that run out it doesn't stop us from trying. Even though the Majesty of God is way beyond our paygrade of fully describing Him He loves that we try... Let's keep trying and growing in our attempts at expressing our worship and praise to Him!
Our lives and how we live them is found in our values, practices and priorities. If you truly know me you know what I value, what I practice/do and what my priorites are. This episode is an introduction into a series stemming from experiencing the manifest and magnified presence of the Lord.
Most of us have busy lives (at least at times we do). Time can be a precious commodity. We do our best in this episode to review and inform those listening what the main purpose is for this podcast. You will determine if that matches your heart and if it's worth your time. I hope you determine it is and you stick around for awhile...
If you thought you've seen and heard it all when the COVID-19 thing hit you're not even close. That's some of the negative stuff. The good stuff, the glory of God's presence is going to be magnified all over the Earth like never before. God is eternal, His presence is beyond description, His glory outshines all other lights throughout creation. We're talking about God!
Bachman Turner Overdrive sang a song about "You ain't seen nothin' yet,B B B Baby. You just ain't seen nothin' yet." Our Heavenly Father could be singing that same type of song right now! We are in for a life changing encounter with THE ONE AND ONLY...
Transformation resulting from God and His Written Word impacting us is more real and Life giving than any magic or other spiritual power anyone or anything else can produce. This podcast episode is devoted to encouraging all of us to give The Written And Proven Word Of God an elevated and functional place in our lives.
We are all a W.I.P. (Work In Process). Some of us have come a long way from where we used to be when it comes to our mindsets and lifestyles. Others of us are just getting started. While still others of us who are getting moving, again. This podcast episode is devoted to one of the key components to having a Spirit-filled mind/heart. So, here we go...
Jesus Christ said that "He would not leave us orphaned." What does He mean? He means that He makes the Way for having relationship/adoption with our Heavenly Father... He makes IT possible by having the Holy Spirit (the Spirit of Adoption) indwell us and open our eyes and ears (minds) to see and hear the activity of His Kingdom. He also opens up for us The Written Word Of God. The written word of God is a key component in our being able to have a renewed mind and is the primary focus of these next 3 podcast episodes..
We all send out unseen "vibes" or signals. We carry a presence about whether we thinks we do or not. What's it going to be???
Creating new and improved thought processes with the help of the Holy Spirit is the crux of this podcast episode. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to give your faith a good workout!
We can't put the toothpaste back in the tube once it's out. There are times we wouyld all like a "do over". H.A.L.T. is an acronym used to help us STOP what we're doing and ask for some HELP. HALT stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely and/or Tired. We need to stop what we're doing and ask God for help if/when we find ourselves in prolonged times of being Hungry, Angry, Lonely and/or Tired so we don't make unhealthy decisions.
It's not having a little dirt on our hands that makes us or the food we eat unclean. If the words that come out of our mouths are unclean it doesn't matter how many times we wash our hands before we eat; we and our "insides" are unclean. Let's put an end to unclean communication. Let's not "go sipping" on dirty water. Let's have a fountain of pure Life/Water flowing out of our lives!
Have you ever asked yourself, "How did I get in this situation, again?" Hopefully if that's you or you know someone like that this podcast episode will be beneficial.
In one of the comdeies by Bud Abbot and Lou Costello we find Costello unable to stop dancing whenever he heard a certain type of music being played... he couldn't help himself! He would be dancing, crying and screaming, "Stop the music!" Well that can be a lot like us at times... we just can't seem to stop obsessing about something and it's got us in a negative , unhealthy cycle of existence. We will be tackling these types of issues in these next 3 epidodes... stay tuned!
Nobody really relishes the notion of receiving bad news. In fact, I, personally, would rather be physically hit hard in the stomach and get it over with than to receive bad news or negative information from someones mouth. Fact are facts; facts are stubbborn things. Bad news is a fact of life. How we deal with it affects all of what we say, think, feel and do. Having "the mind of Christ" available to us is more than a religious saying. IT's authentic... IT's real. We will be taking the next few podcast episodes to unpack this whole are so that we can get equipped and gather a few helpful things for our toolbelts of Kingdom Life.
Trust is an incredible dynamic to have in any healthy, growing relationship. When trust is broken it is vital to have it restored if there is a snowballs chance left in saving it from complete disaster. Trust can be restored... it just takes hard work but, it can be restored. You have to determine it is worth the work necessary. So, ask God and He'll show you how to go about it if you mean it... this podcast episode will help get you started.
We are at the tail end of this series on The 9 Gifts of the Holy Spirit as listed in I Corinthians 12:1-11/ We have wrapped this up with some of the How's and the How To's of all this stuff. Learning it is one thing... Being , Doing it and Living it out are all different and important aspect to embracing the mind of Christ and being an active member of His unique, mysterious Body... The Church!
There are times when it's not what you say that counts as much as how you say it. Then, there are times when it's both... This is one of those times. so, keep your ears open to not only what you hear... but how you hear it... or both what and how something you hear is said in this podcast or in the rest of your life, for that matter! Anyway, please pay close attention...
We are gonna do this thing... We're getting ready to take this "stuff" on the road. We are headed to the Mpls/St. Paul area August 26 - 27, 2022 (North/Mid-West, USA) for a "Kingdom Come" get together. This episode has a brief, basic prayer outline in it... with more, specific information about the actual event coming down the road. So, sta tuned... If you want to give your time, energy or money to it drop usa line at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com We would live hearing from you.
This whole aspect of Life in the Kingdom of God used to sometime bother and intimidate me. I was caught up in tryingto please the people who were skeptics. Man, is that a poor paying job with no benefits! I would rather focus my attention on helping equip those who are hungry to learn and want to "Do The Stuff"> That's what this podcast is all about... Doing The Stuff...
Thank God for Being God! Thank God for His Love, Life, Righteousness, Joy and Peace... His Kingdom. Thank God for the Gifts that He provides to build His Church (us) up from ground zero. It's amazing that we get to receive "Inspiration"from His Spirit today!
God uses common folks like us to do uncommon things. The Word of Wisdom, The Word of Knowledge, and The Discerning of Spirits are 3 amazing, supernatural gifts that the Holy Spirit has given to us to use for the purpose of helping one another and helping advance the Kingdom of God on Earth (as it is in Heaven). This podcast shows us How to begin and what to look for when the Holy Spirit wants to use one of us for the Glory of God and the good of us all.
Yup, we're taking this thing "on the road" moved along by the love of our Heavenly Father, the exalted name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ The Son and the power of the Holy Spirit! August 26-27, 2022 located in the Mpls/St. Paul area. It will be a Friday night (home meeting) and an all day Saturday Love Feast Celebration Time... an outdoor mini festival. Is that not cool, or what! So, make your plans, pray and keep tuning in for more information.
Here we go... "The meat is in the street"... shoe leather Christianity 101! Let's get busy and "Do the Stuff"!!!
Living life in a "daily" way can be both good and bad. Good if it is purposeful... Bad if it is SSDD (Boring/Mundane/Empty). This podcast is part of a vision with purpose. We are involved in a co-mission. Life now has vison/purpose. I hope you will be inspired and helped by some of the encouragement found in this episode.
Check yourself before you wreck yourself... It's good to review things (even if you're not in trouble). In fact, that's probably the best time to review things... when things are going along just fine. If you are in a tough spot, perhaps this might help.
There are some things in life that are important for us to review... just ask any good business owner. These next 2 podcast are "reviews". They are designed to help us take a look back to help us remember why and where we are going with this whole thing. So, kick back and enjoy a few insightful reminders and refreshers...
There have been times in my life when I have been guilty of "over thinking" or "complicating" things. This has, more often than not, left me frozen in my tracks afraid to take any type of risk. I simply didn't like the "unknown"... the stuff I couldn't control. I've also been guilty of turning some of the spiritual elements of Eternal Life into fables or "myth busting" opportunities. This, too, has been a rather empty, angry pursuit. There is a unique balance to living Eternal Life... It takes some risks and mistakes in order for us to actually live IT instead of just talking about IT or watching other people attempt to live IT while we crique their efferts. We attempt to addres those things in this podcast...
We are delving into and applying some TRUTH to our relationship with God and our relationships with one another. Prayer and Fasting, Spiritual Gifts and our Relationship with the Written Word of God are three of those treasure chest items we are opening up and finding out how to apply them to our everyday lives. The thing about life is: It's so daily! Daily living is meant to be living LIFE with a real purpose. It's much different than SSDD! Walking in relationship with the Spirit of God, Him leading the WAY is far from boring... It's A REAL LIFE/REAL LIVING/REAL LIFE GIVING DEAL. Are you IN or are you OUT???
The "Mind" of Christ is developed in us as the Holy Spirit leads us through the process. Some things/ changes seemingly happen overnight while other developments take more time. Having a discipline of prayer and fasting in our lives greatly enhances the Holy Spirit's development of the mind of Christ in us and our usage in the Kingdom of God.
This will probably turn out to be one of the better podcasts we have published. I am hopefully at the tail end of this crazy COVID-19 thing. The worsrt sypmton I got from it was a case of "COVID-19 Brain/Head". My thoughts have been all over the place. I hope something in this Pot Porri/Stew/Trail Mix of a podcast will be benficial. If nothing else it will be good for a couple of laughs. Grab a snack, relax and listen up, Pilgrim.
You are in for a real treat. Ben Swanson is a guy I classify as The Real Deal. The man walks quietly but carries a big stick! He is one of the Directors of a ministry called Young Life. Their main focus is to establish a network of young adults in High School and College Campuses around the world who live out the Gospel of Jesus Christ and His Kingdom. I encourage you to take the next few minutes and let the Holy Spirit speak to you as Ben shares his heart. If you have any questions as to how you might be able to get involved in what Ben is doing or you want to support him in prayer or financial giving please drop us a line at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com We will make sure to give you the information you need.
One word with a whole lot of meaning and power in it... The "F" Word..."Forgiveness"! This podcast is centered in on the absolute importance of it... perhaps now more than ever. Who are we trying to kid... It's always been and while we are still alive in the realm of time and space it will always be a vital link for us to experience the true meaning of LIFE!
Popeye once said, "I've had all I can stands and I can't stands no more"! I know we all get there for different reasons at different times at least once in awhile. It's nice to know you're not alone and it's good to know that we can do something that can seem rather unconventional but nonetheless effective and real. Tune in and find out!
In this episode we will look at two phrases: "Come And See" and "I Don't Know (Yet)". It has taken me years of extensive, formal training and fedrearl funding to finally feel capable of truly saying, teaching , and meaning, these words. I hope you appreciate the extensive, exegetical, hermeneutical and theological prowess involved in the synthesis of this etimylogical treatise.
These three words, "Come and See"as recorded in the Gospel of John have changed the course of history. Using these words Jesus invited a small group of men to come and see where he was living at the time. One of those men, Andrew, used some of those words and told his brother Simon to come with him and meet the Messiah. Another one of the men, Phillip, told another guy, Nathanel to "come and see", Jesus (the Messiah). So, "Come and see" are three powerful word! I can even say those words. As you listen to our interview with one of the Southpoint Community Church of Jacksonville, Florida's Pastors... Ryan Austin the Holy Spirit is actually going to reveal Jesus to you. Those are big words. They are backed up with big faith in a much, much Bigger God! "Come And See "! His desire is to not only reveal himself to us, He wants to walk with us daily as we follow Him growing and developing into His likeness as citizens of His Kingdom!
It never ceases to amaze me how God takes my darkest failures and turns them into something useful. Stuff that I would be ashamed to admit, God transforms into something that actually helps another person. I no longer care what others might say about my past. God has taken what was intended for evil and has turned it around and is actually using it to provide something good for others to receive His love and forgiveness!That is true for all of us who are in relationship with Him... It's amazing what enables and qualifies us to give the love and comfort of God to others.
It's amazing to think that the actual "Eternal Life" of God lives in those of us who are born again by His Spirit. It's also amazing that the world around us can see it and some deeply want to know and experience that free gift of Eternal Life. We are vessels and messengers who can present the Kingdom of God and express His nature/will through us on Earth as it is in Heaven. WOW!!! We get to be part of the most powerful movement on this planet. I am 100 percent sold out and on board. Come on... Let's let the Eternal Light/Life shine so that others would see God and glorify Him!
All of us reach mental, physcal, emotional and spirtitual "roadblocks" throughout orife. Plkaces that are ipossible to get beyod on our own. Habits, activities, oppressions, hurts etc. can stand in the way of us moving foward. It is most certainly true in our relationsip with God and others. We need help to move forawrd... We need to be "transformed". Enter the Holy Spirit... Our hope is that through the ncouragement and insights shared in this podcast you will find the way to open up, ask God for help and watch Him move with you in getting past the "roadblock.
I was up all night, last night, being swept up in prayer by the Holy Spirit. It was a unique, effortless time of intercession... more like God praying through me vs. me praying to God. It was mostly centered in on a new "harvest" of men, women and children that will be entering into a new relationship with Him and becoming citizens of His Kingdom... Good News. I also understood that He is awakening some of us to be "workers" in this harvest. So, let's keep our eyes and ears open to what the Holy Spirit is doing to us, around us and through us.
I have recently bn meditating on how the nature and ways of God and His Kingdom are radically different than many of our Western/European, Eastern/Asian, Island, Australian, African or Indian cultural ways (different views and paradigms... paradoxical). God told the prophet Isaiah that His (God's) ways were/are not mankinds ways and His thoughts were/are higher than man's thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). This episode is devoted to some examples of those facts... In fact, it is Good News... it's at the very heart of God!
We are designed uniquely by God. We are equal in value but we differ in function. In our human bodies the nose can't say to the mouth, "I don't need you". For those of us born again supernaturally by the Holy Spirit applying to our lives the cleansing power of Jesus' blood and Jesus ushereing us into the presence of the Father, we are made whole as God's children and citizens of His eternal Kingdom. We are part of "The Body of Christ"! So, we each have a part to play in becoming mature, full grown members of His Boy. This podcast is an encouragement for us to grow where we are planted... to stay in our own lane... become the best Body memeber we can by the power of the Holy Spirit Who dwells within us.. making us more and more like Jesus hrist individually and collectively.
I recently caught myself saying, "Down the road when things are a lit better I look forward to doing this new work." It was a pretty normal conversation I had with myself and at times with other people. Then, another thought came to me as I noticed how God had miraculously opened up a situation in my life that no human being could accomplish without His involvement. I said, "Wow!, that's so crazy awesome!" while I was saying those things to myself the Holy Spirit gently, clearly and firmly said, "David, that's normal. That's how I have always wanted our relationship to be. That's my original design for everyone." The old future is not always out there and God wants to make us normal by having the vision become the new now. That's naturally supernatural at it's finest folks. We are in the best, most natural relationship we could ever imagine... I'm talking about a real, healthy, relationship with God (our Father, Savior, and Holy Spirit). Our relationship with God and our future is now! The "invisible" becoming "visible".
There is a healthy balance we are able to achieve and walk in with the help of the Holy Spirit. Part of that balance involves "privilege and responsibilty". If we have (or provide) too much pivilege without a balance of responsibilty we can become (or create) spoiled, entitled people. If we have (or demand) too much responsibilty without a balance of privilege we become (or create) people who can be judgemental, harsh, demanding and bitter. This podcast is all about asking God to help us be people with a healthy, growing balance of privilege and responsibility. So, kick back, drive, do the dishes, etc and lend your hearts and minds to some "good stuff".
We all have or at least had "stuff" happen to us or things we have done to ourselves and others that have produced problems. Some big (major) ones and others, seemingly small or insignificant. Over time they produce the quivilent of a spiritual, mental emotional and physical clog/jam. The real complications that often result from this is both varied and complex. This podcast is devoted to helping provide some sutions to those problems. So, grab something to drink, kick back for awhile and check this out. It just might be what you need to hear in order to get started or to keep on with the process of removing some of the inner "junk" from your life.
This is a special word for men and women who have once help (or are holding) positins of leadership. These might be in areas of the church, the community, politics, entertainment, etc. Being a leader makes a person very visible... both the good things and the bad. Sometimes the bad overtakes the good and as a result things begin to deteriorate. It might be a moral/sexual failure, an alcohol/drug problem, gambling, lying, the list goes on and on. You get the point. You have or are going to be a "fallen" leader. What is going to happen to you now? Hopefully, you will find some hope and encouragement in this podcast today. It is done specifically with you in mind.
As many of us know, we are in the early stages of a massive, worldwide "reviving" of the slumbering Body (Church) of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This is much more than a week, month or even a year of super charged meetings. This is a true movement, manifestation of the Kingdom of God in our midst. He (God) is, once again, waking us up and helping us become "normal", not subnormal. This podcast is meant to be both a reminder and a source of encouragement to those listening.
In the Gospel of Like chapter 24 Jesus tells his disciples that the Father was going to clothe them in power by The Holy Spirit in order to successfully be a people who both demontrate and speak of His Kingdom, His glory and His invitation (salvation) to have relationship with Him through the things that Jesus Christ accomplished in His life, death, resurrection and ascencion. I am sharing my story as part of The Story in hopes that it will inspire, equip and draw people into a real and deeper relationship with God! This is Part 2 of 2 in this series. I hope it is a source of "salvation" for you. Feel free to drop us a line at lifearoundthefire@gmail.com