Church in the Valley - Ontario Ranch Campus: Recent Episodes
Church in the Valley
Our attempts to tame life and make it conform to our will are futile. Life is uncertain and full of surprises. Some of the surprises are good and others are painful. God's people in the Old Testament were no stranger to uncertainty. They were enslaved by Egypt and then captured by Babylon. The guide for prayer in Psalm 46 reminds us that God is our refuge and strength. This message will point us to God as our refuge in the midst of the uncertain life we live.
The world is full of distractions that promise to make our life better in some way. The problem with distractions is that they only satisfy for a short time. And the Bible gives us a much different picture of a blessed life. Psalms 1:1-6 describes the blessed man as one who keeps the right perspective and practice.
The world is full of distractions that promise to make our life better in some way. The problem with distractions is that they only satisfy for a short time. And the Bible gives us a much different picture of a blessed life. Psalms 1:1-6 describes the blessed man as one who keeps the right perspective and practice.
Biblical Fellowship is God's people living life together. Actually supporting one another to live out our faith in a manner that honors the Lord.
Biblical Fellowship is God's people living life together. Actually supporting one another to live out our faith in a manner that honors the Lord.
Helping others by introducing the belief in God's gift of salvation helps people find meaning in the promise of eternal life.
Helping others by introducing the belief in God's gift of salvation helps people find meaning in the promise of eternal life.
Because we have been purified by the truth and brought into God's household, we are called to love one another sincerely, earnestly, and from the heart.
Jesus invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him. Rather than living in self-sufficiency, we are invited to Jesus and find rest. He is inviting us to come alongside Him and He will help to bear our burdens.
Jesus invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him. Rather than living in self-sufficiency, we are invited to Jesus and find rest. He is inviting us to come alongside Him and He will help to bear our burdens.
This Sermon is about whether we are the one who has been wronged or the one who has sinned against another, failing to confess and address these sins can damage our relationships. When we do not seek reconciliation through God's gift of forgiveness, relational walls begin to form between us and the other person.
This Sermon is about whether we are the one who has been wronged or the one who has sinned against another, failing to confess and address these sins can damage our relationships. When we do not seek reconciliation through God's gift of forgiveness, relational walls begin to form between us and the other person.
One of the ways we can grow together into a healthy, balanced and unified Body, is to Confess Our Sins to One Another as it says to do in James 5:16. "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working." (James 5:16, ESV)
One of the ways we can grow together into a healthy, balanced and unified Body, is to Confess Our Sins to One Another as it says to do in James 5:16. "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working." (James 5:16, ESV)
This Sermon talks about what God wants us to ideally do with the EXTRA He has given us today. What is found in the Bible is that God's concern is for our hearts. God is concerned with our heart because when our heart belongs to Him then we will do His purposes in the world which ultimately will bring blessing into our life.
This Sermon talks about what God wants us to ideally do with the EXTRA He has given us today. What is found in the Bible is that God's concern is for our hearts. God is concerned with our heart because when our heart belongs to Him then we will do His purposes in the world which ultimately will bring blessing into our life.
Finances impact most decisions that we make. And we are doing this series to help us all climb the ladder towards peace in the area of finances that will impact the majority of our life. A ladder is used as an illustration throughout this series from a book called "The Generosity Ladder by Nelson Searcy."
Finances impact most decisions that we make. And we are doing this series to help us all climb the ladder towards peace in the area of finances that will impact the majority of our life. A ladder is used as an illustration throughout this series from a book called "The Generosity Ladder by Nelson Searcy."
Generosity - The quality of giving freely of your time, money, and energy. This Sermon will focus on the aspects of being generous financially.
Generosity - The quality of giving freely of your time, money, and energy. This Sermon will focus on the aspects of being generous financially.
t have money to do anything, much less find something that gives us rest. And sometimes religious activity gets to feel like a burden. The next thing you know, your legs feel like they are 200 pounds each and it is difficult to keep moving forward. There are some red letters in the Bible that speak to those who are in need of some rest.
t have money to do anything, much less find something that gives us rest. And sometimes religious activity gets to feel like a burden. The next thing you know, your legs feel like they are 200 pounds each and it is difficult to keep moving forward. There are some red letters in the Bible that speak to those who are in need of some rest.
The Red-Letter Bible has only been around since 1899 but seeing the words Jesus spoke while on earth in red, leaves a profound impact on the reader. This message will introduce the series and the new covenant talked about in Luke 22:20. Additionally, we will focus on Jesus's death, burial, and resurrection on the cross and the impact of Jesus' statement on his way to die on the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34)
The Red-Letter Bible has only been around since 1899 but seeing the words Jesus spoke while on earth in red, leaves a profound impact on the reader. This message will introduce the series and the new covenant talked about in Luke 22:20. Additionally, we will focus on Jesus's death, burial, and resurrection on the cross and the impact of Jesus' statement on his way to die on the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34)
This Sermon will look at the battle to stay rooted and to stay strong. It will unpack the spiritual armor as well as give some big picture perspective about the spiritual realm. The goal is to help see there is a spiritual reality as well as begin to see the tools God gives us to fight against the enemy's tactics.
This Sermon will look at the battle to stay rooted and to stay strong. It will unpack the spiritual armor as well as give some big picture perspective about the spiritual realm. The goal is to help see there is a spiritual reality as well as begin to see the tools God gives us to fight against the enemy's tactics.
This sermon will focus on how God gives us instruction to help us relate in key relationships (marriage, parenting, and work). The natural tendency in our hearts, and reinforced in culture, is to do what we want, when we want. However, God's design is to team together and play specific roles in the key relationships God has given us.
This sermon will focus on how God gives us instruction to help us relate in key relationships (marriage, parenting, and work). The natural tendency in our hearts, and reinforced in culture, is to do what we want, when we want. However, God's design is to team together and play specific roles in the key relationships God has given us.
s love than getting into sin. Sin keeps us in darkness while holiness brings the light. As we move toward holiness we can walk exactly and understand the will of God.
s love than getting into sin. Sin keeps us in darkness while holiness brings the light. As we move toward holiness we can walk exactly and understand the will of God.
We now come to the point in the book of Ephesians where we can focus on what we should do with the reality of life in Christ. God is doing something special in the church and we get to be a part of this movement.
We now come to the point in the book of Ephesians where we can focus on what we should do with the reality of life in Christ. God is doing something special in the church and we get to be a part of this movement.
God's plan since the beginning of times was to save the world. The covenant and promise to Abraham (Genesis 12) is fulfilled through Christ. This is our purpose in the church. To take the grace, peace, hope Paul describes in Ephesians 1-2 and share that with the world.
God's plan since the beginning of times was to save the world. The covenant and promise to Abraham (Genesis 12) is fulfilled through Christ. This is our purpose in the church. To take the grace, peace, hope Paul describes in Ephesians 1-2 and share that with the world.
We live in a divided world. This division exists in our hearts, our families, our neighborhoods and our church. This sermon will focus on how Christ gives us peace and an escape from the hostility that comes from division.
We live in a divided world. This division exists in our hearts, our families, our neighborhoods and our church. This sermon will focus on how Christ gives us peace and an escape from the hostility that comes from division.
We all long for purpose, but without Christ and His free gift of grace, we cannot overcome our sin or sense of direction. This sermon will focus on how to experience grace and extend grace so we can fulfill God's purpose in our lives.
We all long for purpose, but without Christ and His free gift of grace, we cannot overcome our sin or sense of direction. This sermon will focus on how to experience grace and extend grace so we can fulfill God's purpose in our lives.
When we root ourselves to this world, our plans, the future, we are left choked out without an anchor and real substance. This takes away our hope because the things of this world change and pass away. However, God, through Christ has given us another option. To root ourselves back to our Maker where life and purpose can be found.
When we root ourselves to this world, our plans, the future, we are left choked out without an anchor and real substance. This takes away our hope because the things of this world change and pass away. However, God, through Christ has given us another option. To root ourselves back to our Maker where life and purpose can be found.
There are consequences to unforgiveness, and it is important for us to understand the consequences of unforgiveness so that we see the importance of forgiving others freely.
There are consequences to unforgiveness, and it is important for us to understand the consequences of unforgiveness so that we see the importance of forgiving others freely.
The forgiveness of sins is at the heart of the gospel of Jesus Christ and biblical community. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." God sent his only son to die on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins. He forgave us when we didn't deserve it. And that should fuel God's people to be a people that forgive one another freely. We don't forgive people because they deserve it. We forgive people out of a deep gratitude for how much God has forgiven us.
The forgiveness of sins is at the heart of the gospel of Jesus Christ and biblical community. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." God sent his only son to die on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins. He forgave us when we didn't deserve it. And that should fuel God's people to be a people that forgive one another freely. We don't forgive people because they deserve it. We forgive people out of a deep gratitude for how much God has forgiven us.
Prayer is talking to God and listening to him. And he wants us to do that all the time. He wants us to spend our day coming back to him over and over again in prayer like how we invest in other relationships. And this constant prayer is a lifeline to God's people and it molds us into people who are hopeful towards the future.
Prayer is talking to God and listening to him. And he wants us to do that all the time. He wants us to spend our day coming back to him over and over again in prayer like how we invest in other relationships. And this constant prayer is a lifeline to God's people and it molds us into people who are hopeful towards the future.
Hope is a distinguishing mark of a genuine Christ Follower. There is a confident expectation for the future that springs out of the person who has fully surrendered their life to Christ.
Hope is a distinguishing mark of a genuine Christ Follower. There is a confident expectation for the future that springs out of the person who has fully surrendered their life to Christ.
Like Simeon, we're called to recognize Jesus as our personal fulfillment of promise. In a world of waiting, His arrival brings peace that dismisses our deepest fears.
Like Simeon, we're called to recognize Jesus as our personal fulfillment of promise. In a world of waiting, His arrival brings peace that dismisses our deepest fears.
Mary's encounter with God transforms vague thoughts into personal reality, sparking a song that pours from a heart bursting with emotion.
Mary's encounter with God transforms vague thoughts into personal reality, sparking a song that pours from a heart bursting with emotion.
The focus is on The Angel's Song that they sang to the shepherds who were out in the field after Jesus' birth. We are going to see how this song encourages us to make room for Christ the King in our lives and how that guides us towards PEACE that seems like it is always slipping out of our hands.
The focus is on The Angel's Song that they sang to the shepherds who were out in the field after Jesus' birth. We are going to see how this song encourages us to make room for Christ the King in our lives and how that guides us towards PEACE that seems like it is always slipping out of our hands.
Zechariah's Song gives an important perspective on Jesus' birth and God's plan through it.
Zechariah's Song gives an important perspective on Jesus' birth and God's plan through it.
Christian Self-Control: The obedience of our thoughts, emotions, and desires to a will that is fully submitted to Christ.
Christian Self-Control: The obedience of our thoughts, emotions, and desires to a will that is fully submitted to Christ.
We want to be people of wisdom who are able to look at the situations we face in life and pick the right course of action. Wisdom: The ability to see life from God's angle and make sound decisions in life.
We want to be people of wisdom who are able to look at the situations we face in life and pick the right course of action. Wisdom: The ability to see life from God's angle and make sound decisions in life.
We want to look at how we can have work habits that lead to success. And the first thing that helps us to find success is understanding work the way it is talked about in Proverbs.
We want to look at how we can have work habits that lead to success. And the first thing that helps us to find success is understanding work the way it is talked about in Proverbs.
Words matter a lot. The good news is God can help control your tongue. Follow Christ, learn the ways of the Lord. Practice by obeying His commands, and it will grow within you.
Words matter a lot. The good news is God can help control your tongue. Follow Christ, learn the ways of the Lord. Practice by obeying His commands, and it will grow within you.
A proverb can be described as a brief statement that offers a pithy but powerful observation.-Jim George, The Bare Bones Bible Handbook
A proverb can be described as a brief statement that offers a pithy but powerful observation.-Jim George, The Bare Bones Bible Handbook
Christians are a part of God's army in this Spiritual War. We have each other. God has given us a brotherhood or sisterhood of soldiers that are experiencing the same types of suffering from the enemy. The same types of attacks.
Christians are a part of God's army in this Spiritual War. We have each other. God has given us a brotherhood or sisterhood of soldiers that are experiencing the same types of suffering from the enemy. The same types of attacks.
The enemy wants to prowl around and destroy us. But, we don't have to be easy pray. We submit to God and resist the enemy. When the enemies attacks come we can rebuke him. We employ godly strategies for our life instead of worldly.
The enemy wants to prowl around and destroy us. But, we don't have to be easy pray. We submit to God and resist the enemy. When the enemies attacks come we can rebuke him. We employ godly strategies for our life instead of worldly.
God gives us the resources for victory in the war within. It comes down to whether we are going to feed the flesh or the spirit more.
God gives us the resources for victory in the war within. It comes down to whether we are going to feed the flesh or the spirit more.
We are going to look at how to recognize how to ready the enemy's attacks against us and respond appropriately so that we can be successful.
We are going to look at how to recognize how to ready the enemy's attacks against us and respond appropriately so that we can be successful.
To gain a clear understanding of the spiritual war going on around us and how we can have victory in the battle.
To gain a clear understanding of the spiritual war going on around us and how we can have victory in the battle.
Fasting is meant to be done from the HEART and we get examples from the NEW and OLD Testament for when God's people have fasted in the past. We can use those examples to spark ideas for how to fast in the future...
Fasting is meant to be done from the HEART and we get examples from the NEW and OLD Testament for when God's people have fasted in the past. We can use those examples to spark ideas for how to fast in the future...
God takes us through a process to become more like him. This Sermon takes a look at what confession is, why it is important, and how to practice confession.
God takes us through a process to become more like him. This Sermon takes a look at what confession is, why it is important, and how to practice confession.
A Forge is where the blacksmith purifies and shapes His steel into something stronger and useful towards His purpose. That's a perfect analogy to the Christian life. God is the blacksmith, His people are the steel, and He purifies and shapes us through the fiery trials we face so that we become straighter and more useful to Him for His purposes. Our part is to stay in the fire and respond to His hammer. Today's message talks about the hammer. It's Study...
A Forge is where the blacksmith purifies and shapes His steel into something stronger and useful towards His purpose. That's a perfect analogy to the Christian life. God is the blacksmith, His people are the steel, and He purifies and shapes us through the fiery trials we face so that we become straighter and more useful to Him for His purposes. Our part is to stay in the fire and respond to His hammer. Today's message talks about the hammer. It's Study...
Jesus Christ encourages HABITUAL prayer to exercise faith in God. (Luke 18:1-8). We are going to look at a parable that Jesus told that encourages a tenacious prayer life. Parables were stories Jesus told to illustrate points. They were not easy to understand but Jesus used them to highlight some principles in his kingdom.
Jesus Christ encourages HABITUAL prayer to exercise faith in God. (Luke 18:1-8). We are going to look at a parable that Jesus told that encourages a tenacious prayer life. Parables were stories Jesus told to illustrate points. They were not easy to understand but Jesus used them to highlight some principles in his kingdom.
The Christian life is meant to be an active intentional process like we see in a forging process. Where we take intentional actions to move towards becoming like Christ and God forms us into who He has made us to be.
The Christian life is meant to be an active intentional process like we see in a forging process. Where we take intentional actions to move towards becoming like Christ and God forms us into who He has made us to be.
The name Immanuel, meaning "God with Us," signifies the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence through Jesus Christ. Through Immanuel, believers experience the fullness of God's character in a tangible, relational way, as Jesus lives out and completes the promises revealed through God's names.
The name Immanuel, meaning "God with Us," signifies the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence through Jesus Christ. Through Immanuel, believers experience the fullness of God's character in a tangible, relational way, as Jesus lives out and completes the promises revealed through God's names.
El Shaddai, meaning "God Almighty" or "the All-Sufficient One," highlights God's limitless power and ability to supply all needs. Christians are encouraged to trust in the almighty nature of El Shaddai, who is more than able to meet every need and fulfill His promises.
El Shaddai, meaning "God Almighty" or "the All-Sufficient One," highlights God's limitless power and ability to supply all needs. Christians are encouraged to trust in the almighty nature of El Shaddai, who is more than able to meet every need and fulfill His promises.
s life illustrates how God is both a mighty warrior who fights for His people and a compassionate shepherd who walks closely with them through every challenge.
s life illustrates how God is both a mighty warrior who fights for His people and a compassionate shepherd who walks closely with them through every challenge.
The name "Jehovah Jireh" translates into "The Lord Will Provide." This name is found in the story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22, where God provides a ram as a substitute sacrifice, demonstrating His provision in a moment of ultimate need and obedience. God's provision is often linked to our trust and obedience, and while God may not always provide how or when we expect, He is always faithful to meet our needs according to His divine plan. Believers are encouraged to trust God as their provider in all circumstances, knowing that He sees and supplies beyond what we can anticipate.
The name "Jehovah Jireh" translates into "The Lord Will Provide." This name is found in the story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22, where God provides a ram as a substitute sacrifice, demonstrating His provision in a moment of ultimate need and obedience. God's provision is often linked to our trust and obedience, and while God may not always provide how or when we expect, He is always faithful to meet our needs according to His divine plan. Believers are encouraged to trust God as their provider in all circumstances, knowing that He sees and supplies beyond what we can anticipate.
El Elyon, "God Most High," is a name that highlights God's supreme sovereignty and ultimate authority over all creation. This name signifies that nothing happens outside of God's control and that He reigns above every power, circumstance, and human authority. God brings peace and confidence, especially when life feels chaotic or uncertain. Believers can rest in the assurance that the Most High God is actively involved in their lives, orchestrating all things for His glory and their good.
God reveals many of his names to us so that we might gain a new perspective on who He is. One name by itself cannot fully represent God's majesty and power. One name cannot fully tell us all we need to know about this person that we call "God." Often when God revealed a new aspect of his character to his people, he often did so by revealing a new name.
God reveals many of his names to us so that we might gain a new perspective on who He is. One name by itself cannot fully represent God's majesty and power. One name cannot fully tell us all we need to know about this person that we call "God." Often when God revealed a new aspect of his character to his people, he often did so by revealing a new name.
We are A Shining City on a Hill. Everyone sees, everyone is watching. Praise your Father in heaven. There is no God like our God.
We are A Shining City on a Hill. Everyone sees, everyone is watching. Praise your Father in heaven. There is no God like our God.
Ebed-Melech risked it all to obey God in a deadly siege - his faith won God's promise. In your storms, live by faith, not fear - God will deliver you too.
Jethro's wise counsel, born from love and trust, blessed Moses and Israel - God uses our experience to guide others when we earn the right to speak through faithful care.
The Canaanite Woman's relentless faith in Jesus - despite apparent rejection - teaches us to persist in prayer, trusting His goodness over our misconceptions.
The Canaanite Woman's relentless faith in Jesus - despite apparent rejection - teaches us to persist in prayer, trusting His goodness over our misconceptions.
Phinehas' passion for God's glory purified Israel - let's take steps to clear out the unholy and live fully for the Lord.
Bezalel's story reveals how God pours gifts into us, sharpens them through effort, and uses them to serve others - just as He did for Israel's worship.
Bezalel's story reveals how God pours gifts into us, sharpens them through effort, and uses them to serve others - just as He did for Israel's worship.
Abigail becomes a living case study of what to do when we find ourselves in the storms of emotional sabotage.
Abigail becomes a living case study of what to do when we find ourselves in the storms of emotional sabotage.
This message will look at our need for a Savior and the good news that Jesus sacrificed himself to be the Savior we need.
This message will look at our need for a Savior and the good news that Jesus sacrificed himself to be the Savior we need.
In Matthew 16:13-16, Jesus asks Simon Peter "But who do you say that I am?" This question has major implications for everyone on earth. If we answer that Jesus is the Christ like Simon Peter, then our eternity is secure with God in heaven and our life is spent following after Jesus. Learning to obey his commands. But if one answers that Jesus is not the Christ then they remain in bondage to sin. This message will look at how we can answer this question with confidence that Jesus is the Messiah (Christ in the Greek).
In Matthew 16:13-16, Jesus asks Simon Peter "But who do you say that I am?" This question has major implications for everyone on earth. If we answer that Jesus is the Christ like Simon Peter, then our eternity is secure with God in heaven and our life is spent following after Jesus. Learning to obey his commands. But if one answers that Jesus is not the Christ then they remain in bondage to sin. This message will look at how we can answer this question with confidence that Jesus is the Messiah (Christ in the Greek).
This Sermon talks about giving people a sense of the heartbeat of Church in the Valley, the foundation of our church from the beginning, and the mission the Lord has given us that animates us to do what we do.
This Sermon talks about giving people a sense of the heartbeat of Church in the Valley, the foundation of our church from the beginning, and the mission the Lord has given us that animates us to do what we do.
This Sermon is aimed to help people see that the safest place to be is in the center of the will of God.
This Sermon is aimed to help people see that the safest place to be is in the center of the will of God.
This Sermon talks about the importance of considering God in all that we do and keeping our desires under control.
This Sermon talks about the importance of considering God in all that we do and keeping our desires under control.
The purpose of this Sermon is to show the dangers of pride and help you see that God is the Most High God whom gets all the glory.
The purpose of this Sermon is to show the dangers of pride and help you see that God is the Most High God whom gets all the glory.
In this Sermon we will learn how to prepare for the heat (metaphorically) to be tuned up in life. The fires of life can burn us and do a lot of damage. Or, it can purify our faith in God. That is God's purpose for the fire. He wants to purify us so that we come out on the other side of the fire with more strength, courage, and purity.
Life is full of mystery and we can get fascinated or stuck in it. In this Sermon we'll learn how to seek God's help in the mysteries and determine how to move forward when we hit something we don't understand.
Life is full of mystery and we can get fascinated or stuck in it. In this Sermon we'll learn how to seek God's help in the mysteries and determine how to move forward when we hit something we don't understand.
God is always FAITHFUL to His people. In this sermon we will learn how to be FAITHFUL to Him.
God is always FAITHFUL to His people. In this sermon we will learn how to be FAITHFUL to Him.
Generosity is a lifestyle, not an event. God's ways are different than ours, in this sermon we will learn how that is good for us.
Generosity is a lifestyle, not an event. God's ways are different than ours, in this sermon we will learn how that is good for us.
It is important to wisely manage current resources and plan for the future through the Biblical principles of budgeting, saving, and getting out of debt, all while prioritizing God, personal growth, and financial stability. Pastor Thad offers a practical plan to take incremental steps to become debt-free, so that we can honor God and steward our finances with wisdom and responsibility.
It is important to wisely manage current resources and plan for the future through the Biblical principles of budgeting, saving, and getting out of debt, all while prioritizing God, personal growth, and financial stability. Pastor Thad offers a practical plan to take incremental steps to become debt-free, so that we can honor God and steward our finances with wisdom and responsibility.
Set your heart on being fruitful for the LORD, your hands to being faithful with what He gives you, and you will see the blessing of God on your life.
Set your heart on being fruitful for the LORD, your hands to being faithful with what He gives you, and you will see the blessing of God on your life.
Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Psalm 107:1 (ESV)
God sent His Son to earth with the intention that he would die on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins. So, we lean into the anticipation of the season and rejoice that the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everylasting Father, and Prince of Peace came into the world and is still here with God's people today.
We can face opposition from our spiritual enemy and also from those who come against us. When opposition rises up - God wants to build courage into us in a new way. The good news is that while we may not fully know what opposition we face - God does and He will protect us. He will lead us in His power of the Holy Spirit and His Word.
We can face opposition from our spiritual enemy and also from those who come against us. When opposition rises up - God wants to build courage into us in a new way. The good news is that while we may not fully know what opposition we face - God does and He will protect us. He will lead us in His power of the Holy Spirit and His Word.
God sent His only Son to our world so that we can find redemption and Hope. God initiated, provided, and sacrificed for us.
Fear provides an opportunity for faith and for us to experience God come through in new ways.
Fear provides an opportunity for faith and for us to experience God come through in new ways.
This sermon will look at how we can experience hope - even when things are not what we want or anticipate. When things seem impossible for us - God can do the impossible. This may not be a miracle or the super natural - but it could be we find greater hope in knowing we stayed the course - even when it doesn't make sense. Outcome is God's responsibility. Obedience is yours.
This sermon will look at how we can experience hope - even when things are not what we want or anticipate. When things seem impossible for us - God can do the impossible. This may not be a miracle or the super natural - but it could be we find greater hope in knowing we stayed the course - even when it doesn't make sense. Outcome is God's responsibility. Obedience is yours.
We are to be thankful always and this expresses the mature mindset that... Everything belongs to God. People depend on God for everything. He continually takes care of his followers.
We are to be thankful always and this expresses the mature mindset that... Everything belongs to God. People depend on God for everything. He continually takes care of his followers.
Faith gives us the ability to consider it joy when facing trials because God has a purpose for the painful circumstance.
Faith gives us the ability to consider it joy when facing trials because God has a purpose for the painful circumstance.
The next essentials in decision making are learning how to listen to God's voice. It is easy for us to pick up this block and run with it to decide what we are going to do. However, that could lead to some foolish decisions. This block - Prayer and Prompting - Listening to God's voice - comes last because we want to make sure that it is built on the foundation of God's general will and searching out his specific will in our current decision.
The next essentials in decision making are learning how to listen to God's voice. It is easy for us to pick up this block and run with it to decide what we are going to do. However, that could lead to some foolish decisions. This block - Prayer and Prompting - Listening to God's voice - comes last because we want to make sure that it is built on the foundation of God's general will and searching out his specific will in our current decision.
Searching for God's specific will is the next step after learning to do His general will. This involves asking for wise counsel on specific decisions and seeking to get a neutral heart before God.
Searching for God's specific will is the next step after learning to do His general will. This involves asking for wise counsel on specific decisions and seeking to get a neutral heart before God.
God's general will is lined out for us in scripture and we get to know God's will and ways through experience. This experience requires faith, integrity, and obedience. God's will and ways become clear to us as we choose to live God's way over and over again.
God's general will is lined out for us in scripture and we get to know God's will and ways through experience. This experience requires faith, integrity, and obedience. God's will and ways become clear to us as we choose to live God's way over and over again.
Good decisions flow out of a heart of wisdom. A heart of wisdom will do what is righteous towards God, just towards people, and prudent towards a goal. A heart set on wisdom will then consider the building block of God's guidance as they make decisions.
God has a growing family (Eph. 2:19) - His teams accept one another and keep on growing by adding to their number. The church does that by welcoming guests (Rom. 15:7) and continuing to add them into the church (Acts 5:14).
A legendary team stays "sharp" in the way they approach things. Sharp: alert competence and clear understanding shown in a resourceful, enthusiastic way. An important aspect of being "sharp" is that we do the best we can with our resources. This means that we don't compare but focus on what we can do to take care of our responsibilities (Gal. 6:4-5; 2 Cor. 10:12). Then, we let our light shine and give God the glory (Matt. 5:16). The team can accomplish being sharp when they focus on doing everything for the glory of God (1 Cor. 10:31).
A legendary team stays "sharp" in the way they approach things. Sharp: alert competence and clear understanding shown in a resourceful, enthusiastic way. An important aspect of being "sharp" is that we do the best we can with our resources. This means that we don't compare but focus on what we can do to take care of our responsibilities (Gal. 6:4-5; 2 Cor. 10:12). Then, we let our light shine and give God the glory (Matt. 5:16). The team can accomplish being sharp when they focus on doing everything for the glory of God (1 Cor. 10:31).
A legendary team and its members are proactive - they have a "can do" attitude and take initiative to do right and accomplish God's purpose. Choosing a proactive posture buys up the opportunity (Gal. 6:10) and trusts that we can do anything through Christ (Phil. 4:13).
A legendary team and its members are proactive - they have a "can do" attitude and take initiative to do right and accomplish God's purpose. Choosing a proactive posture buys up the opportunity (Gal. 6:10) and trusts that we can do anything through Christ (Phil. 4:13).
At CIV, we value a godly cohesion (cohesion: to stick together tightly). A legendary team chooses to be loyal and trust one another which builds unity and brings results to glorify God.
At CIV, we value a godly cohesion (cohesion: to stick together tightly). A legendary team chooses to be loyal and trust one another which builds unity and brings results to glorify God.
The mission God has for the church requires teamwork. God distributes different talents, abilities, and gifts to His followers. These gifts are meant to complement one another to accomplish the Great Commission in the local church.
The mission God has for the church requires teamwork. God distributes different talents, abilities, and gifts to His followers. These gifts are meant to complement one another to accomplish the Great Commission in the local church.
This week we are going to look at why we have an unshakeable hope and optimism about the future and how we should act accordingly.
This week we are going to look at why we have an unshakeable hope and optimism about the future and how we should act accordingly.
Christ calls us to be salt and light, people of maturity, stable for our families and church.
God is sovereign over all, including the prosperity of the wicked and the reality of injustice. His promise of ultimate judgment provides a foundation for rest and hope amidst persecution and wrongdoing. Believers are called to respond to injustice with faith and courage, confronting evil with the assurance of God's righteous plans.
God is sovereign over all, including the prosperity of the wicked and the reality of injustice. His promise of ultimate judgment provides a foundation for rest and hope amidst persecution and wrongdoing. Believers are called to respond to injustice with faith and courage, confronting evil with the assurance of God's righteous plans.
Since our God reigns over America, since God is in control and since He is not giving us more than we can handle we can focus on our stewardship here in this nation and with this government we have.
Since our God reigns over America, since God is in control and since He is not giving us more than we can handle we can focus on our stewardship here in this nation and with this government we have.
Biblical self-control is mastery over one's desires and passions. When you look at self-control throughout the Bible you find it specifically relating to mastering one's appetite or alcohol consumption, or sexual impulses, or just general mastery over the desires and passions that are contrary to God's ways.
Gentleness is a tender, compassionate approach toward other's weaknesses and limitations. In this message we learn to ask God to help practice gentleness in D.O.U.G.H.
True faith, often misunderstood, is rooted in biblical teachings from original Greek and Hebrew concepts. It acknowledges God as the creator of reality, beyond its constraints. Despite the enemy's deceptions, faith empowered by the Holy Spirit aligns believers with God's true reality. Trials and temptations serve to test and strengthen this faith, guiding believers away from worldly distortions.
God is the standard of morality. Without Him, true morality has no foundation. Can you be "Good without God"? In this sermon we learn that goodness and morality are defined by God, making morality an objective truth. As an objective truth, we cannot define morality and goodness however we want.
God is the standard of morality. Without Him, true morality has no foundation. Can you be "Good without God"? In this sermon we learn that goodness and morality are defined by God, making morality an objective truth. As an objective truth, we cannot define morality and goodness however we want.
This sermon is on the relationship between the 5th commandment and Patriotism, or LOVE or DEVOTION for one's nation, people, and heritage.
God's kindness to us is the example for how we ought to treat others. And His kindness is meant to lead His people to live life His way. And the kindness that we show to others is meant to do the same.
Patience means to be in a state of emotional calm in the face of provocation or misfortune without complaint or irritation. This message talks about unpacking this definition and what it means for our own lives.
Patience means to be in a state of emotional calm in the face of provocation or misfortune without complaint or irritation. This message talks about unpacking this definition and what it means for our own lives.
Patience means to be in a state of emotional calm in the face of provocation or misfortune without complaint or irritation. This message talks about unpacking this definition and what it means for our own lives.
True peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). This peace is a deep sense of contentment and assurance that comes from trusting in God.
True peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). This peace is a deep sense of contentment and assurance that comes from trusting in God.
True peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). This peace is a deep sense of contentment and assurance that comes from trusting in God.
Joy should be a hallmark of Christ followers in the good times and the bad. Amidst suffering, Christ followers can experience joy that those who don't know Christ won't.
Today we talk about , "How do we grow to be more loving?" The answer is we study the law of God, and we study the commands of God. We love His commands because they reveal what is good and we want to do good for God and others.
Fruit is developed from a seed in the ground. The seed is buried and then is transformed into a plant. Once the plant grows to maturity fruit is the natural byproduct. Fruit is never grown overnight. In the same way the fruit of our lives is not developed overnight. It is planted then cultivated and grown over a period of time. All of us develop fruit from the choices we make in life. The question is what kind of fruit are you producing? If your life was like a piece of fruit and was peeled, would the fruit be sweet or sour?
Fruit is developed from a seed in the ground. The seed is buried and then is transformed into a plant. Once the plant grows to maturity fruit is the natural byproduct. Fruit is never grown overnight. In the same way the fruit of our lives is not developed overnight. It is planted then cultivated and grown over a period of time. All of us develop fruit from the choices we make in life. The question is what kind of fruit are you producing? If your life was like a piece of fruit and was peeled, would the fruit be sweet or sour?
The message aims to show that children are a gift from God, and they need both parents to thrive. God will help those who don't have both parents at home; the church is where you find help for parenting, uncles, aunts, sisters, and brothers.
To show the value of friendships in God's plan for life. Contrasting how men and women form friendships to create understanding among men and women.
This message will show that God's purpose for marriage is companionship and loyalty. His design is to be faithful to one wife through the years to have someone you can trust. God also has a solution for single men and women; He has made church a family.
To show the reality of gender-based on Scripture and lead people to realize the error of culture going against God's design.
To show the reality of gender-based on Scripture and lead people to realize the error of culture going against God's design.
To show the progression of how human beings pervert the gift of sex. Also, how to get right with God.
To show the progression of how human beings pervert the gift of sex. Also, how to get right with God.
We celebrate the resurrection today! God has given eternal life to all who believe and receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. The message aims to share the gospel and will also walk through some of the evidence for the resurrection.
We celebrate the resurrection today! God has given eternal life to all who believe and receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. The message aims to share the gospel and will also walk through some of the evidence for the resurrection.
The goal is to show biblically that God has called each of us to do everything we can to keep the peace and protect the fellowship He has given us through the Holy Spirit.
The goal is to show biblically that God has called each of us to do everything we can to keep the peace and protect the fellowship He has given us through the Holy Spirit.
Explains how God having called out a people for Himself (Evangelism) wants them to become like Him in His love, generosity, and blessedness. We repay God, and we pay it forward to others. We must take initiative with one another, as brothers and sisters, not to gain but to give, trusting God with the outcome.
Explains how God having called out a people for Himself (Evangelism) wants them to become like Him in His love, generosity, and blessedness. We repay God, and we pay it forward to others. We must take initiative with one another, as brothers and sisters, not to gain but to give, trusting God with the outcome.
We learn from the scriptures how God took initiative to bless us in Christ. He loved us first. He moved towards us first. In the same way we are called to enter into partnership with Him by taking initiative with others who are lost.
We learn from the scriptures how God took initiative to bless us in Christ. He loved us first. He moved towards us first. In the same way we are called to enter into partnership with Him by taking initiative with others who are lost.
To help parents realize that God's power is available to them for parenting. They can rely on Him for both power and wisdom.
To help parents realize that God's power is available to them for parenting. They can rely on Him for both power and wisdom.
To help parents realize that discipline is good for their kids and we need to be consistent with it.
To help parents realize that discipline is good for their kids and we need to be consistent with it.
Parents are commanded to instruct their children in God's commands, making His commands the center of their conversation with their kids (Deuteronomy 6:4-9). The goal of parents' instruction is to give them a framework for understanding and interpreting life experiences so they can develop the right behavior habits.
Parents are commanded to instruct their children in God's commands, making His commands the center of their conversation with their kids (Deuteronomy 6:4-9). The goal of parents' instruction is to give them a framework for understanding and interpreting life experiences so they can develop the right behavior habits.
To show parents how kindness opens children up to instruction and helps them be open to correction.
To show parents how kindness opens children up to instruction and helps them be open to correction.
Parent's would go to the Bible to discover how to parent their children, and rely on God's wisdom for raising them.
Parent's would go to the Bible to discover how to parent their children, and rely on God's wisdom for raising them.
God uses pivotal circumstances to grow our faith. Sometimes these circumstances can be positive (new work opportunity, growing family, etc.), but many times God uses trouble and pain to grow our faith and reliance on Him. Pivotal circumstances test our faith, but from that blessing comes (James 1).
God uses pivotal circumstances to grow our faith. Sometimes these circumstances can be positive (new work opportunity, growing family, etc.), but many times God uses trouble and pain to grow our faith and reliance on Him. Pivotal circumstances test our faith, but from that blessing comes (James 1).
Christianity is a personal decision but not private. God had made life to be done in a community of His people. It is in the community that we grow spiritually because God uses the church to refine us in different ways. Two ways are Personal Ministry and Providential Relationships.
Christianity is a personal decision but not private. God had made life to be done in a community of His people. It is in the community that we grow spiritually because God uses the church to refine us in different ways. Two ways are Personal Ministry and Providential Relationships.
People set goals for all areas of their life around the 1st of the year. And the goals we set will determine the steps we take to accomplish those goals. So, what spiritual growth goals should we take? We can set out to learn more about God. That is a good goal but 1 Corinthians 8:1 warns us that knowledge can puff us up to be arrogant. In this message we will look at what it means to be spiritually mature?
People set goals for all areas of their life around the 1st of the year. And the goals we set will determine the steps we take to accomplish those goals. So, what spiritual growth goals should we take? We can set out to learn more about God. That is a good goal but 1 Corinthians 8:1 warns us that knowledge can puff us up to be arrogant. In this message we will look at what it means to be spiritually mature?
That God would teach us to number our days so that we may gain a heart of wisdom in 2024.
Simeon and Anna were just faces in the crowd like all of us here. They were not celebrities of their time. Many of us forget about their story in the Bible. It is easy for us to feel like these Biblical characters. We can feel forgotten or insignificant. A person's value is not tied to their celebrity or what they can produce in life. The value of people is found in the fact that... God knows us. God is with us. God created us.
Simeon and Anna were just faces in the crowd like all of us here. They were not celebrities of their time. Many of us forget about their story in the Bible. It is easy for us to feel like these Biblical characters. We can feel forgotten or insignificant. A person's value is not tied to their celebrity or what they can produce in life. The value of people is found in the fact that... God knows us. God is with us. God created us.
To highlight Jesus as the consolation of Israel and how he is the consolation for his followers today.
To highlight Jesus as the consolation of Israel and how he is the consolation for his followers today.
We are not only saved by grace, but continue to walk in, grow in and live by the grace of God now and forevermore. Grace doesn’t end after we become Christians. This grace is received by faith in the word and promises of God, not by our merits. We respond in gratitude, joy, and hope for the future.
We are not only saved by grace, but continue to walk in, grow in and live by the grace of God now and forevermore. Grace doesn’t end after we become Christians. This grace is received by faith in the word and promises of God, not by our merits. We respond in gratitude, joy, and hope for the future.
The goal is to distinguish our true guilt before God (apart from Christ) from the guilt and condemnation the world, our hearts, and the enemy heaps upon us (vague, undefined, and unpardonable). The goal is to learn how to walk in the freedom we have in Christ. To be free from guilt, shame, and condemnation, we must start with our guilt before God, not our opinions, sentiments, and our culture. Only by being forgiven by God for sins named by God can we find justification and strength to refuse the malevolent voices of condemnation all around us.
The goal is to distinguish our true guilt before God (apart from Christ) from the guilt and condemnation the world, our hearts, and the enemy heaps upon us (vague, undefined, and unpardonable). The goal is to learn how to walk in the freedom we have in Christ. To be free from guilt, shame, and condemnation, we must start with our guilt before God, not our opinions, sentiments, and our culture. Only by being forgiven by God for sins named by God can we find justification and strength to refuse the malevolent voices of condemnation all around us.
God wants us to pray for others because He cares for us. The church prayed for Peter while he was in prison, and God answered their prayer dramatically. Many were gathered in the house of Mary, where Peter went after the Lord released Him from prison. All the while, the word of God increased and multiplied.
God wants us to pray for others because He cares for us. The church prayed for Peter while he was in prison, and God answered their prayer dramatically. Many were gathered in the house of Mary, where Peter went after the Lord released Him from prison. All the while, the word of God increased and multiplied.
When the church has opportunities, we should expect opposition. This was the case for the very first church. But the apostles were bold in their proclamation of the gospel. The first believers courageously declared the gospel despite being jailed, beatings, and the jealousy of the Pharisees. They rejoiced that they were counted worthy of being treated shamefully on behalf of the name of Jesus.
When the church has opportunities, we should expect opposition. This was the case for the very first church. But the apostles were bold in their proclamation of the gospel. The first believers courageously declared the gospel despite being jailed, beatings, and the jealousy of the Pharisees. They rejoiced that they were counted worthy of being treated shamefully on behalf of the name of Jesus.
We must return to the basics of living out our faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. In the book of Acts, we see Jesus working through a tiny, ordinary group of followers who, despite much opposition, shared their living hope which sparked a worldwide movement that God wants to continue through us.
We must return to the basics of living out our faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. In the book of Acts, we see Jesus working through a tiny, ordinary group of followers who, despite much opposition, shared their living hope which sparked a worldwide movement that God wants to continue through us.
Patience means steadfast despite opposition, provocation, difficulty or adversity. Patience allows you to make the most of suffering and it increases your reputation among men. It avoids judgment by God if you don’t grumble. After the suffering, if you follow the Lord through it, He restores your soul.
Patience means steadfast despite opposition, provocation, difficulty or adversity. Patience allows you to make the most of suffering and it increases your reputation among men. It avoids judgment by God if you don’t grumble. After the suffering, if you follow the Lord through it, He restores your soul.
Teachable: able and willing to be taught. The blessing of being teachable is that they are a lamp for your path, a light that guides you, and the corrections of discipline are the way to “life.” Teachability is the only legitimate shortcut in life. When you learn from others or accept correction from them, it cements your relationship with them. You have an advantage at work because you are willing to learn from others. You don’t need to recreate the wheel. In money matters, you can learn from their mistakes and good practices. When you suffer, you can learn from others, so you don’t repeat the same mistakes.
Teachable: able and willing to be taught. The blessing of being teachable is that they are a lamp for your path, a light that guides you, and the corrections of discipline are the way to “life.” Teachability is the only legitimate shortcut in life. When you learn from others or accept correction from them, it cements your relationship with them. You have an advantage at work because you are willing to learn from others. You don’t need to recreate the wheel. In money matters, you can learn from their mistakes and good practices. When you suffer, you can learn from others, so you don’t repeat the same mistakes.
When you humble yourself, God has promised to exalt you. Humility involves rejecting a sense of superiority, but instead choosing before God to take the attitude of a dependent and sinful creature and worship, fear, trust and obey him. When you choose humility, you can enjoy relationships with others for the long term because you make it easy for people to relate to you. You focus your words on others, to speak about what benefits them. Correction is easier to hear from you because you are humble. You make it a joy for the leaders over you.
When you humble yourself, God has promised to exalt you. Humility involves rejecting a sense of superiority, but instead choosing before God to take the attitude of a dependent and sinful creature and worship, fear, trust and obey him. When you choose humility, you can enjoy relationships with others for the long term because you make it easy for people to relate to you. You focus your words on others, to speak about what benefits them. Correction is easier to hear from you because you are humble. You make it a joy for the leaders over you.
Trust in the Lord: counting on God to keep his word. The person who trusts the Lord and has confidence in Him will flourish in this life.
Trust in the Lord: counting on God to keep his word. The person who trusts the Lord and has confidence in Him will flourish in this life.
FEAR: reverential awe (fear God). AWE: an emotion variously combining dread, veneration, and wonder that is inspired by authority or by the sacred or sublime (Merriam-Webster). Fear of the Lord: taking God seriously enough to obey him and stay within the boundaries that He set.
FEAR: reverential awe (fear God). AWE: an emotion variously combining dread, veneration, and wonder that is inspired by authority or by the sacred or sublime (Merriam-Webster). Fear of the Lord: taking God seriously enough to obey him and stay within the boundaries that He set.
Clarity and Conviction. Compassion without Compromise. *Faithfulness without Fear or Fighting.
In this sermon we will show how the 5th commandment is to be obeyed. Our aim is to motivate everyone to show honor to their father and mothers and show respect to their elders.
The aim of this sermon is to compare the new orthodoxies (Right Thinking) being jammed down our throats, with God's Word and consider the fruit of each. We will show how God's commandments obeyed in faith produce wonderful things, but false doctrines lead to injustice.
In this sermon we will contrast the false prophets, priests, and corrupt kings with the One true prophet, priest and king Jesus Christ as well as knock down the stronghold: the Myth of the "Elites".
The focus will be on naming the 2 primary rival gods worshipped in America today, and understanding how they are worshipped. We will demolish the second stronghold that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, the secular/sacred divide. We'll show how idolatry leads to slavery, by showing how Selfie worship leads to Beast worship. Finally, we will learn how to put Selfie to death by carrying our cross daily.
We live in chaotic times; What is going on? What's causing this? Where are things headed? In this message we will learn how to protect our church and thrive in a crooked and depraved generation.
We classify a number of psalms as royal, in that they concern either God as King, or the human king. For our purposes, we will only consider a psalm royal on that basis if the content indicates that the king is the speaker. We should point out that hymns, laments and other psalms may also be categorized as royal, so this type is a rather overlapping category.
Many psalms look back to the past, particularly to the great acts of God's redemption. They acclaim God's enduring love by remembering his creation of the world, his redemption at the exodus, and his establishing them in the land of promise.
Laments are songs of disorientation, sung by those who are in distress. Laments do not just express the distress of the person who suffers, but also begins to minister to that person my moving them towards a more positive attitude towards God and life.
A few psalms contain divine oracles, and often these psalms are called prophetic, on the assumption that a prophet connected with the sacred centre uttered the oracle on behalf of God. Thus, rather than prayers to God, like the majority of psalms, or even exhortations to the congregation on behalf of the worship leader, God is the speaker of most of these psalms.
Psalms of confidence are recognized primarily by the psalmist's expression of trust in God even in the face of opposition.
Thanksgiving songs are similar to hymns in their joyous expression, but they cite an earlier lament that God has answered. Westermann famously spoke of thanksgiving as narrative psalms of praise, as opposed to descriptive psalms of praise, in which 'the deliverance from danger is recounted'. Thus, with Thanksgiving, we complete the cycle with a song of orientation.
Many psalms share language, concepts and concerns of wisdom literature (Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Songs of Songs). When such similarities pervade a psalm, we classify it as a wisdom psalm.
Hymns are songs of joy, intended for those occasions when life is going well. The composer of a hymn and those who sing it are happy with God, their fellow worshippers and themselves.
Psalms means to make music or to sing praise. It is also a prayerbook for God's people.
Trust in the Lord and fear of the Lord are the beginning of wisdom. In the Old Testament the fear of the Lord was the attitude that brought protection, wisdom (Proverbs 9:10) and many other blessings. In the New Testament, receiving Christ as Savior and Lord is how we begin to fear God. Whoever chooses to walk with Jesus Christ has found the key to life and success (as opposed to destruction and failure). Ounce yield to Christ as Lord, we must dig in and begin obeying the Scripture (John 8:31-32) to stay on the path to freedom.
The Nabal fool is a predator. If given the choice between a win-win or win-lose situation, they will choose win-lose every time. They prey on unsuspecting people. It is important to us to live in the reality that Predators exist. In this message we will answer the following questions about the Predatory Way fool...1. What is the Predatory Way (Nabal) Fool?2. What do we do if we are this type of fool?3. How do I relate to this type of fool at home, or at church, or at work?
The Nabal fool is a predator. If given the choice between a win-win or win-lose situation, they will choose win-lose every time. They prey on unsuspecting people. It is important to us to live in the reality that Predators exist. In this message we will answer the following questions about the Predatory Way fool...1. What is the Predatory Way (Nabal) Fool?2. What do we do if we are this type of fool?3. How do I relate to this type of fool at home, or at church, or at work?
The Halal fool is dangerous. They are arrogant in their push to gain status in a group. And they don't want the status to serve the group. They want the status to serve their desire for glory. In this message we will answer the following questions about the Glory Way fool... 1.) What is the Glory Way (Halal) Fool? 2.) What do we do if we are this type of fool?
The Halal fool is dangerous. They are arrogant in their push to gain status in a group. And they don't want the status to serve the group. They want the status to serve their desire for glory. In this message we will answer the following questions about the Glory Way fool... 1.) What is the Glory Way (Halal) Fool? 2.) What do we do if we are this type of fool?
An extreme version of the stubbornly self centered person is the Cakal. This person has a reckless lifestyle. The Fun way fool needs to yield to Christ and learn to yield to the "control" of the Holy Spirit.
An extreme version of the stubbornly self centered person is the Cakal. This person has a reckless lifestyle. The Fun way fool needs to yield to Christ and learn to yield to the "control" of the Holy Spirit.
There are 5 profiles of fools that emerge from studying the Hebrew words that are translated to fool in English. The second profile we are looking at is the My Way Fool. The My Way Fool (E'viyl in Hebrew) is committed to selfishness ('ivveleth) uses control to get what they want.
There are 5 profiles of fools that emerge from studying the Hebrew words that are translated to fool in English. The second profile we are looking at is the My Way Fool. The My Way Fool (E'viyl in Hebrew) is committed to selfishness ('ivveleth) uses control to get what they want.
The first profile we are looking at is the Easy Way fool. The Easy Way Fool (Keciyl in Hebrew) is committed to selfishness ('ivveleth) in order to do the least amount of work as possible.
The first profile we are looking at is the Easy Way fool. The Easy Way Fool (Keciyl in Hebrew) is committed to selfishness ('ivveleth) in order to do the least amount of work as possible.
Introduce that our hearts are SAD (selfish, arrogant and damaged). Present the story from Creation to Christ along with past and present ways that the world says the cross of Christ is folly. Then, introduce the fools that we will look at in this series.
Habakkuk recounted the faithfulness of God to the people of God. In this message, the aim is to encourage you to develop your personal history of God's powerful presence in your life so you can take joy in the salvation of God. Hence, as not being dependent on circumstances for joy and inner peace.
To be encouraged to not jump to the wrong conclusions about what God is doing in history and our own lives. Trust Him and rely on His Word to sort it out. Live by faith, and not like the people in the world around you.
Encouragement to go directly to God and ask Him questions. Also, to learn how the law of God is the basis of a stable society and be encouraged to live based on God's Word.
Motivated by gratitude for God's amazing grace, and to learn how to honor God in relationships by putting brothers and sisters first.
To get motivated by gratitude for God's amazing grace, and to learn how to honor God with the first and best of our days and weeks.
Having been motivated by gratitude for His amazing grace, to learn and respond by giving God the first and best of our money.
To learn how amazing God's grace is towards us that the gratitude overflows into a desire to give God everything and honor Him however He wishes.
To learn about what's valid and invalid enjoyments. Also to be aware of the excessive and unlawful pursuits of delight. Physical lust can destroy your life, so be vigilant and keep your hearts clean. To evaluate what and where you find deepest enjoyment in.
To see the nature and damage of sadness. How we get it, get struck and how to get out in faith. To get motivated to take one to apply the message in faith this week.
To learn the nature and damage of fear, the blessing of faith (Fear/Trust of the Lord), and how to stop being triggered by fear through growing in faith.
To learn the nature and damage of uncontrolled anger, the blessing of patience, and how to move from being enslaved by the former to being characterized by the later.
To understand the cause - and - effect relationship between emotions, actions, and consequences that I may not perceive.
Jesus is the Prince of Peace. He desires peace for us in our inner being and relationships. He has the peace that we need. We can have shalom in our lives as we live in line with the Bible's instructions for peace.
This message will look at fathers in the Bible and what that means for the child to be called the Everlasting Father.
The Mighty God can be trusted. He will provide the strength we need to face any situation as we learn to lean on his strength.
Christ followers have a relationship with the Wonderful Counselor. Jesus Christ will guide us in extraordinary wisdom as we learn to walk with him.
To motivate people to do the will of God in each situation in life by showing how it is and an advantage to do His will. Also, show aspects of the spiritual war that makes it difficult to do the will of God in this life.
To provide perspective and help for dealing with failure. To motivate people on how to deal with failure God's way by showing the advantages of doing so.
To motivate the 50's and 60's not to get bogged down in the cares and worries of life but to pick up speed to the finish by showing the alternatives.
To encourage the crew in their 40's to endure by showing how God solidifies character among other things (show what they are) and revealing the dangers of the decade in hope that they do not cave into the regret or self-pity.
To encourage the crew in their 40's to endure by showing how God solidifies character among other things (show what they are) and revealing the dangers of the decade in hope that they do not cave into the regret or self-pity.
To motivate the 20's to get training, and the 30's to build carefully in line with God's Word. To provide the perspective that if you fail to get training, building is much more difficult.
To motivate the 20's to get training, and the 30's to build carefully in line with God's Word. To provide the perspective that if you fail to get training, building is much more difficult.
To learn as parents, how to help our kids have a good life and motivate them to walk with God. Also, to introduce our kids to Him and His ways and to see the advantages of a good relationship with our kids.
To learn as parents, how to help our kids have a good life and motivate them to walk with God. Also, to introduce our kids to Him and His ways and to see the advantages of a good relationship with our kids.
To learn as parents, how to help our kids have a good life and motivate them to walk with God. Also, to introduce our kids to Him and His ways and to see the advantages of a good relationship with our kids.
To learn as parents, how to help our kids have a good life and motivate them to walk with God. Also, to introduce our kids to Him and His ways and to see the advantages of a good relationship with our kids.
To motivate and want to live in line with the realities that God weaves into the fabric of life so that you accept reality to your advantage. To help understand the dynamics of each situation you face and focus on what God is doing in it to grown you.
To motivate and want to live in line with the realities that God weaves into the fabric of life so that you accept reality to your advantage. To help understand the dynamics of each situation you face and focus on what God is doing in it to grown you.
To motivate and want to live in line with the realities that God weaves into the fabric of life so that you accept reality to your advantage. To help understand the dynamics of each situation you face and focus on what God is doing in it to grown you.
To motivate and want to live in line with the realities that God weaves into the fabric of life so that you accept reality to your advantage. To help understand the dynamics of each situation you face and focus on what God is doing in it to grown you.
To motivate and adopt God's perspective on life by stepping back and looking at what the Scripture says about the flow of life.
To motivate and adopt God's perspective on life by stepping back and looking at what the Scripture says about the flow of life.
The Spirit produces the fruit in our life that gives us the life that inherits the kingdom of God and meets our deepest needs on earth.
The Spirit produces the fruit in our life that gives us the life that inherits the kingdom of God and meets our deepest needs on earth.
The Spirit produces the fruit in our life that gives us the life that inherits the kingdom of God and meets our deepest needs on earth.
The Spirit produces the fruit in our life that gives us the life that inherits the kingdom of God and meets our deepest needs on earth.
The way to conquer the flesh is to yield to the Spirit's leadership and experience the freedom that comes from living life God's way.
The way to conquer the flesh is to yield to the Spirit's leadership and experience the freedom that comes from living life God's way.
The way to conquer the flesh is to yield to the Spirit's leadership and experience the freedom that comes from living life God's way.
The way to conquer the flesh is to yield to the Spirit's leadership and experience the freedom that comes from living life God's way.
Jesus said "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you." The context of this verse is that Jesus revealed to the disciples that his time with them is short.
Learn from the story of Nehemiah how to trust God in times of both opportunity and opposition, building while battling.
Learn from the story of Nehemiah how to trust God in times of both opportunity and opposition, building while battling.
Christ followers are to give up their own desires and submit to God's desires for their lives.
Everywhere the Christian gospel spread in the first century experienced undeniable life change, even amidst the threat of persecution
Everywhere the Christian gospel spread in the first century experienced undeniable life change, even amidst the threat of persecution
Compassion comes at a cost, but if you have the ultimate things decided, you can take the risk.
Compassion comes at a cost, but if you have the ultimate things decided, you can take the risk.
The disciples of Jesus believed they had convincing proof that Jesus had risen from the dead and this proof led them to devote their lives to spreading the Christian message.
The disciples of Jesus believed they had convincing proof that Jesus had risen from the dead and this proof led them to devote their lives to spreading the Christian message.
Christ-followers are encouraged to invest and invite their friends and family to get around God's people in order to introduce them to their Savior.
Christ-followers are encouraged to invest and invite their friends and family to get around God's people in order to introduce them to their Savior.
We carry the treasure of the gospel, to display God's power as we demonstrate the changes God makes in our lives.
We carry the treasure of the gospel, to display God's power as we demonstrate the changes God makes in our lives.
Christ-followers are instructed to be humble in their suffering and let God lift their burden in His perfect time.
Christ-followers are instructed to be humble in their suffering and let God lift their burden in His perfect time.
The Bible has many warnings about the dangers of debt. God cares about your financial situation!
The Bible has many warnings about the dangers of debt. God cares about your financial situation!
Folly blocks the development of wisdom in our lives, but when we seek for wisdom diligently, it generates fabulous advantages in life.
Folly blocks the development of wisdom in our lives, but when we seek for wisdom diligently, it generates fabulous advantages in life.
Wisdom requires we have the right assumptions about God and His ways, and have a heart that is willing to trust and obey Him.
Wisdom requires we have the right assumptions about God and His ways, and have a heart that is willing to trust and obey Him.
We can be like Jesus, the Dove, who displayed for us an emotional life that is a perfect harmony of hope, peace, joy and sorrow.
We can be like Jesus, the Dove, who displayed for us an emotional life that is a perfect harmony of hope, peace, joy and sorrow.
Because we belong to the Lord Jesus, it is right to obey and honor our parents as Jesus did.
Because we belong to the Lord Jesus, it is right to obey and honor our parents as Jesus did.
Jesus Christ is the Lion, the Lamb, and the Dove. He became like us, so that we could become like Him.
Jesus Christ is the Lion, the Lamb, and the Dove. He became like us, so that we could become like Him.
Having the courage to obey God over man, and to live out convictions from the Lord regardless of what man might think.
Having the courage to obey God over man, and to live out convictions from the Lord regardless of what man might think.
God is consistent in His power throughout the Bible and wants us to lean into His power in everyday life.
God is consistent in His power throughout the Bible and wants us to lean into His power in everyday life.
We can trust and find courage in the fact that God will use any situation in your life for His purpose.
We can trust and find courage in the fact that God will use any situation in your life for His purpose.
Helping non-Christians understand what it takes to gain the salvation Jesus brings and spur already Christians to be good soil for growth to maturity.
Helping non-Christians understand what it takes to gain the salvation Jesus brings and spur already Christians to be good soil for growth to maturity.
Members of a healthy family carry their own load and also work for the common good of other family members.
Members of a healthy family carry their own load and also work for the common good of other family members.
In a healthy family, its members can be themselves in an environment of love, appreciation and mutual respect.
In a healthy family, its members can be themselves in an environment of love, appreciation and mutual respect.
Though we inevitable become tired, weary and lose sight of our great reward, we're to keep our eye on the prize and remember the promises of the Lord on the day He returns.
Though we inevitable become tired, weary and lose sight of our great reward, we're to keep our eye on the prize and remember the promises of the Lord on the day He returns.
In an age where it seems like everything is crumbling around us, we are instructed to fear God rather than men, and set our hearts and lives to pleasing Him.
In an age where it seems like everything is crumbling around us, we are instructed to fear God rather than men, and set our hearts and lives to pleasing Him.
As Christ followers, we must make sure that our decisions fit the frame of God's will in our lives.
As Christ followers, we must make sure that our decisions fit the frame of God's will in our lives.
Seeking to know and do the will of God should be the #1 priority in a Christian's life.
Seeking to know and do the will of God should be the #1 priority in a Christian's life.
It is imperative to spend time with God daily in His word, so that He can speak to us and train us in the ways of righteousness.
It is imperative to spend time with God daily in His word, so that He can speak to us and train us in the ways of righteousness.
Prayer is an essential aspect of the Christian walk because God wants us to continually be in His presence.
Prayer is an essential aspect of the Christian walk because God wants us to continually be in His presence.
To gain victory over our real opponent, the Devil, we must learn to cooperate with the Lord by using the armor He has provided for victory.
To gain victory over our real opponent, the Devil, we must learn to cooperate with the Lord by using the armor He has provided for victory.
To have an enjoyable and effective family life, we must work through conflict and communicate clearly to one another.
To have an enjoyable and effective family life, we must work through conflict and communicate clearly to one another.
Christ-followers persevere by drawing near to God, remembering God's faithfulness and encouraging one another.
Christ-followers persevere by drawing near to God, remembering God's faithfulness and encouraging one another.
Like the shepherds, Christ-followers should acknowledge the identity of Jesus and begin to share who He is with those around us.
Like the shepherds, Christ-followers should acknowledge the identity of Jesus and begin to share who He is with those around us.
When we're seeking God's will, we need to be like Mary, who moved from measured questioning, to acceptance, to faith.
When we're seeking God's will, we need to be like Mary, who moved from measured questioning, to acceptance, to faith.
The ultimate life hack is to walk with Jesus and work with Him as we handle the various aspects of our lives.
The ultimate life hack is to walk with Jesus and work with Him as we handle the various aspects of our lives.
Choosing humility is a real advantage in life because it allows God to forgive and help.
Choosing humility is a real advantage in life because it allows God to forgive and help.
The Lord can be completely trusted to guide us to the most direct path in life, but we need to make the choice to trust and follow.
The Lord can be completely trusted to guide us to the most direct path in life, but we need to make the choice to trust and follow.
Some people believe that many roads lead to God, however, Jesus made it clear that He is the only way to God.
Some people believe that many roads lead to God, however, Jesus made it clear that He is the only way to God.
A Christian's credibility can be put on the line when they are legalistic, hypocritical, judgmental or intolerant. Jesus denounced all of these things.
A Christian's credibility can be put on the line when they are legalistic, hypocritical, judgmental or intolerant. Jesus denounced all of these things.
Evil and Suffering exist in our world, but God stepped in to clear a path to make things right again.
Evil and Suffering exist in our world, but God stepped in to clear a path to make things right again.
God's values are upside down from the world's system. We can 3-D print a new life by undergoing a Kingdom shift.
God's values are upside down from the world's system. We can 3-D print a new life by undergoing a Kingdom shift.
The church is a multifaceted jewel God uses to accomplish His purposes in the world today.
The church is a multifaceted jewel God uses to accomplish His purposes in the world today.
What matters the most are the attitudes of our heart and mind, not appearances and achievements.
What matters the most are the attitudes of our heart and mind, not appearances and achievements.
When I don't know what to do with my responsibilities, I can ask God for wisdom and help and he will give it when I trust and obey.
When I don't know what to do with my responsibilities, I can ask God for wisdom and help and he will give it when I trust and obey.
Without Christ, we have a deficit we cannot escape, but with Christ, our sins are forgiven and the spiritual debt is cancelled.
Without Christ, we have a deficit we cannot escape, but with Christ, our sins are forgiven and the spiritual debt is cancelled.
Extremes in church life can be damaging. See how two churches in the first century tried to navigate the tension between legalism and liberty.
Extremes in church life can be damaging. See how two churches in the first century tried to navigate the tension between legalism and liberty.
God wants to lead us to discover real treasure as we move financially from struggling, to stable, to surrender, to sacrifice.
God wants to lead us to discover real treasure as we move financially from struggling, to stable, to surrender, to sacrifice.
To accomplish our vision for 2020, we should be diligently praying for our neighbors, meeting them, inviting them to worship, and loving them in practical ways that build trust.
To accomplish our vision for 2020, we should be diligently praying for our neighbors, meeting them, inviting them to worship, and loving them in practical ways that build trust.
In the midst of the commercialization and cultural currents at Christmas, Christ-followers must focus on the centrality of Jesus in the way we celebrate His birth.
In the midst of the commercialization and cultural currents at Christmas, Christ-followers must focus on the centrality of Jesus in the way we celebrate His birth.
To experience the life God has for us, we must build habits that please God and feed streams of joy into our lives.
To experience the life God has for us, we must build habits that please God and feed streams of joy into our lives.
We can receive peace and security when we enter God's Kingdom and choose to make Jesus the King of our hearts.
We can receive peace and security when we enter God's Kingdom and choose to make Jesus the King of our hearts.
Escaping compromising decisions requires that we are diligent, and that we don't put ourselves in compromising situations. If we give into compromise, we need to be quick to confess it instead of covering it up.
Escaping compromising decisions requires that we are diligent, and that we don't put ourselves in compromising situations. If we give into compromise, we need to be quick to confess it instead of covering it up.
Making good decisions in life requires you to reject the counsel of fools and, in humility, seek the counsel of the wise.
Making good decisions in life requires you to reject the counsel of fools and, in humility, seek the counsel of the wise.
We grow as in our walks with Christ and others when we attend worship service, serve on a team, connect in a group or at an event, and plug into environments to learn.
We grow as in our walks with Christ and others when we attend worship service, serve on a team, connect in a group or at an event, and plug into environments to learn.
If we engage with God and His people in various places, we end up receiving more than we give.
If we engage with God and His people in various places, we end up receiving more than we give.
The atmosphere at Church in the Valley is created by the values we share. These include the importance of people, Scripture, acting with Integrity, keeping our mission as our primary focus, and equipping our members for service.
The atmosphere at Church in the Valley is created by the values we share. These include the importance of people, Scripture, acting with Integrity, keeping our mission as our primary focus, and equipping our members for service.
The mission of Church in the Valley is inviting our neighbors to discover Christ through His life changing community.
The mission of Church in the Valley is inviting our neighbors to discover Christ through His life changing community.
We can battle the enemy's lies daily by turning to God in prayer, reading the Bible daily, memorizing God's Word, and spending time with God's people.
We can battle the enemy's lies daily by turning to God in prayer, reading the Bible daily, memorizing God's Word, and spending time with God's people.
God promises to reward those who seek Him with meaningful work, unity in marriage, children that rise and call them blessed, and peace in uncertain health situations.
We can battle the enemy thought "I'm The Only One" by reminding ourselves that God is with us, that others have suffered the way we have suffered, and by connecting with God and others in the church.
We can battle the enemy thought "I'm The Only One" by reminding ourselves that God is with us, that others have suffered the way we have suffered, and by connecting with God and others in the church.
We can battle the enemy thought "It's Not Fair" by refusing to be the judge or the executioner, and choosing to put our case in God's hands.
We can battle the enemy thought "It's Not Fair" by refusing to be the judge or the executioner, and choosing to put our case in God's hands.
We can battle the enemy thought "It's Not What I Want" by recognizing that God is in control, setting our hearts and minds on surrendering to God's will over our own, and taking wise, decisive action to do what we know to do right now.
We can battle the enemy thought "It's Not What I Want" by recognizing that God is in control, setting our hearts and minds on surrendering to God's will over our own, and taking wise, decisive action to do what we know to do right now.
When it seems like life is too hard, we can win the battle by telling ourselves the truth, deciding to obey God's will no matter what, and taking action.
When it seems like life is too hard, we can win the battle by telling ourselves the truth, deciding to obey God's will no matter what, and taking action.
Victory over the enemy's schemes comes when we see as God sees, want what God wants, and do what God says.
Victory over the enemy's schemes comes when we see as God sees, want what God wants, and do what God says.
Compromise is in us, and circumstances bring it out. Freedom from compromise is given when you immerse yourself in the resources of God's Spirit.
Compromise is in us, and circumstances bring it out. Freedom from compromise is given when you immerse yourself in the resources of God's Spirit.
Regular or radical change prevents irrelevance. Stay relevant by letting God renew your mind.
Regular or radical change prevents irrelevance. Stay relevant by letting God renew your mind.
Worldly success leaves people feeling empty. Jesus invites us to live a life of greater joy.
Worldly success leaves people feeling empty. Jesus invites us to live a life of greater joy.
Loneliness is a cultural epidemic but God offers a lasting solution to our disconnection.
Loneliness is a cultural epidemic but God offers a lasting solution to our disconnection.
Jesus leads us to overcome cynicism by forgiving our past and giving us hope for this life and beyond.
Jesus leads us to overcome cynicism by forgiving our past and giving us hope for this life and beyond.
A Christ-follower is an ambassador, a representative of Heaven, to the world around them and its culture.
A Christ-follower is an ambassador, a representative of Heaven, to the world around them and its culture.
A Christ follower is instructed to place consideration high above personal preference in the way they relate to others.
A Christ follower is instructed to place consideration high above personal preference in the way they relate to others.
It's tempting to put our hope in formulas for life, but Jesus is the source of our life and our only hope.
It's tempting to put our hope in formulas for life, but Jesus is the source of our life and our only hope.
God wants us to do all we can to make the gospel attractive to those in our immediate and extended family.
God wants us to do all we can to make the gospel attractive to those in our immediate and extended family.
Jesus commands us to love our neighbors. He wants us to be on the lookout for needs we can meet in our neighborhoods.
Jesus commands us to love our neighbors. He wants us to be on the lookout for needs we can meet in our neighborhoods.
We show love to God by growing in our friendship with Him, obeying His commands, working in ministry to extend His Kingdom, and loving the people around us.
We show love to God by growing in our friendship with Him, obeying His commands, working in ministry to extend His Kingdom, and loving the people around us.
God made me to seek after Him and find Him. When I find the God who made me, my life begins to come together, and He gives me a reason to live.
Displays of teamwork are gifted players helping with what’s needed, costly involvement where people give and sacrifice, great players and coaches, and a shift from spectator to player.
Displays of teamwork are gifted players helping with what’s needed, costly involvement where people give and sacrifice, great players and coaches, and a shift from spectator to player.
Seeking peace is uncommon in our culture, but it is what pleases God and brings His blessing.
Seeking peace is uncommon in our culture, but it is what pleases God and brings His blessing.
The way we handle someone else’s stewardship has an impact on our own lives and either brings God’s blessing or judgment to it.
The way we handle someone else’s stewardship has an impact on our own lives and either brings God’s blessing or judgment to it.
It’s the little details in our short game where life really comes together. We don’t always see how everything is connecting, but the small assignments and responsibilities are setting up the future.
It’s the little details in our short game where life really comes together. We don’t always see how everything is connecting, but the small assignments and responsibilities are setting up the future.
Our family life has a very powerful influence on who we are and how we approach life. We need the power to keep moving toward the ideal!
Our family life has a very powerful influence on who we are and how we approach life. We need the power to keep moving toward the ideal!
If we don’t expect trouble, we tend to have a counterproductive response to it. If we expect it and teach our kids how God uses it to train and build us up, we learn to respond to it well.
If we don’t expect trouble, we tend to have a counterproductive response to it. If we expect it and teach our kids how God uses it to train and build us up, we learn to respond to it well.
Unmet expectations are relationship killers and killjoys. We must deal with unmet expectations daily in order to find the joy God desires for us.
Unmet expectations are relationship killers and killjoys. We must deal with unmet expectations daily in order to find the joy God desires for us.
The best relationships grow when everyone involved is “other centered” and resists being self-centered.
The best relationships grow when everyone involved is “other centered” and resists being self-centered.
We will compare God’s ideal with the problems in families today and discover how God wants to help us grow toward the ideal.
We will compare God’s ideal with the problems in families today and discover how God wants to help us grow toward the ideal.
God's love knows no limitations. Jesus crossed all barriers reaching out to outcasts. Because of Jesus, we can offer living water to those who are empty.
God's love knows no limitations. Jesus crossed all barriers reaching out to outcasts. Because of Jesus, we can offer living water to those who are empty.
God uses people to travel the message of Jesus into their circles of family and friends.
God uses people to travel the message of Jesus into their circles of family and friends.
We have a story to tell - if you never set out on the adventure, it's the same old story.
We have a story to tell - if you never set out on the adventure, it's the same old story.
God is always accounting for the talents He gives us to determine if we get more or less.
God is always accounting for the talents He gives us to determine if we get more or less.
We don't transform our life, God does! This can also be a source of Hope and frustration for us as Christ followers.
We don't transform our life, God does! This can also be a source of Hope and frustration for us as Christ followers.
Following Christ is a process of tearing down our old life and rebuilding our new one according to Christ's instructions.
Following Christ is a process of tearing down our old life and rebuilding our new one according to Christ's instructions.
It's futile to try and store up enough resources so that you don't have to rely on God.
It's futile to try and store up enough resources so that you don't have to rely on God.
Unity is rare, but if we can be unified and work well together, the church is unstoppable.
Unity is rare, but if we can be unified and work well together, the church is unstoppable.
Most of our prayers are tied to requests for us or for those we love. What if we began to pray more about what we could do for God?
Most of our prayers are tied to requests for us or for those we love. What if we began to pray more about what we could do for God?
In prayer, we often make two big mistakes...our prayers are too small, or our prayers are too general. What if our prayer was strengthened with God’s power?
In prayer, we often make two big mistakes...our prayers are too small, or our prayers are too general. What if our prayer was strengthened with God’s power?
We are to live lives of brokenness where we are fully dependent on God. We’d much rather keep it all together so that we can look impressive, but you can help and connect with people through your weaknesses.
We are to live lives of brokenness where we are fully dependent on God. We’d much rather keep it all together so that we can look impressive, but you can help and connect with people through your weaknesses.
A dangerous prayer takes courage to pray it, because when you pray it, He’ll show you some things about yourself that you’re not real proud of, but he provides grace and mercy to help us move forward in a new way.
A dangerous prayer takes courage to pray it, because when you pray it, He’ll show you some things about yourself that you’re not real proud of, but he provides grace and mercy to help us move forward in a new way.
Though there are many positive things about Social Media, but if we’re not careful, the heavy intake of this form of media and relating can breed discontentment, comparison and begin to drive a wedge in our relationships.
Though there are many positive things about Social Media, but if we’re not careful, the heavy intake of this form of media and relating can breed discontentment, comparison and begin to drive a wedge in our relationships.
We all want a good reputation and to have a positive influence on those around us…but what we find in Scripture is that our reputation and our circle of influence is protected and assigned to us by God Himself.
We all want a good reputation and to have a positive influence on those around us…but what we find in Scripture is that our reputation and our circle of influence is protected and assigned to us by God Himself.
Encouragement to keep taking steps of faith to grow and seek the Lord—even into new territory and out of comfort zones. By faith we can go and do what God asks of us—but by fear we shrink back.
Encouragement to keep taking steps of faith to grow and seek the Lord—even into new territory and out of comfort zones. By faith we can go and do what God asks of us—but by fear we shrink back.
There are many times in life when we need to stay and endure what we’re facing in life—especially when it would be easier to go. Trusting God under pressure would enrichen the story God wants to tell through us.
There are many times in life when we need to stay and endure what we’re facing in life—especially when it would be easier to go. Trusting God under pressure would enrichen the story God wants to tell through us.
For us to live the new story that a new life with Jesus brings—we have to recognize choices we make that create real obstacles for us, and also to stop certain ways of thinking and patterns that keep derailing our progress in life.
For us to live the new story that a new life with Jesus brings—we have to recognize choices we make that create real obstacles for us, and also to stop certain ways of thinking and patterns that keep derailing our progress in life.
My identity in Christ shapes the way I handle leadership. If I handle leadership from God’s angle, I choose humility that shows up in the way I shepherd the people under me
My identity in Christ shapes the way I handle leadership. If I handle leadership from God’s angle, I choose humility that shows up in the way I shepherd the people under me
If we identify with Christ, we may suffer for it, but our response is an opportunity to share our faith and apply it at the same time.
If we identify with Christ, we may suffer for it, but our response is an opportunity to share our faith and apply it at the same time.
My number one concern in the way I relate to authority is God’s reputation. If I stay under the umbrella of authority by obeying government (unless opposed to God’s law) and at work, I do well and God’s purpose is accomplished.
My number one concern in the way I relate to authority is God’s reputation. If I stay under the umbrella of authority by obeying government (unless opposed to God’s law) and at work, I do well and God’s purpose is accomplished.
As we come to Christ, we are being built into a spiritual house. This changes the entire purpose and focus of my life – taking it off of me and aiming to please God by the way I live
As we come to Christ, we are being built into a spiritual house. This changes the entire purpose and focus of my life – taking it off of me and aiming to please God by the way I live
The truth of my identity in Christ should prepare my mind for action, to respond to the challenges to my faith that arise in this life.
The truth of my identity in Christ should prepare my mind for action, to respond to the challenges to my faith that arise in this life.
Peter gives the church members a new way of viewing themselves, they are “elect exiles." This understanding of our identity in Christ is crucial for handling any pressure and persecution we experience and continue to move forward to fulfill God’s purpose in the different arenas of life.
Peter gives the church members a new way of viewing themselves, they are “elect exiles." This understanding of our identity in Christ is crucial for handling any pressure and persecution we experience and continue to move forward to fulfill God’s purpose in the different arenas of life.
Peter gives the church members a new way of viewing themselves, as “elect exiles", to understand our identity in Christ is crucial for handling any pressure and persecution we experience and to move forward to fulfill God’s purpose in the different arenas of life.
Peter gives the church members a new way of viewing themselves, as “elect exiles", to understand our identity in Christ is crucial for handling any pressure and persecution we experience and to move forward to fulfill God’s purpose in the different arenas of life.
Rapid numerical growth was a phenomenon of the early church. As more people got involved and committed, the ministry expanded.
Rapid numerical growth was a phenomenon of the early church. As more people got involved and committed, the ministry expanded.
For people to stick in our church, they need relationships and responsibilities to feel connected and a part of the mission.
For people to stick in our church, they need relationships and responsibilities to feel connected and a part of the mission.
We aren’t content if we are a Christ follower until we connect, because connecting and contributing is part of God's plan.
We aren’t content if we are a Christ follower until we connect, because connecting and contributing is part of God's plan.
We can be gracious to others because we have been freed from sin and guilt by Jesus’ life and death on the cross and Christmas is a time of gracious generosity because of God’s grace given to us in His Son.
We can be gracious to others because we have been freed from sin and guilt by Jesus’ life and death on the cross and Christmas is a time of gracious generosity because of God’s grace given to us in His Son.
We will see God’s heart for people and trace the roots of joy to His promises to draw on His joy so they can trade their gloom and anguish for joy.
We will see God’s heart for people and trace the roots of joy to His promises to draw on His joy so they can trade their gloom and anguish for joy.
Team colors point to a team and an identity. What visible thing identifies us as members of God's team?
Team colors point to a team and an identity. What visible thing identifies us as members of God's team?
Those who have decided to follow Jesus and be on God's team, gives us a glimpse of what God values and of the great parade to come.
Those who have decided to follow Jesus and be on God's team, gives us a glimpse of what God values and of the great parade to come.
There is power in gathering together. When we team together, life get's more real and God is more involved.
There is power in gathering together. When we team together, life get's more real and God is more involved.
The mission of God is too great for us to accomplish by ourselves. In order to be a part of something greater than yourself you need to push past the “me first” approach to life.
The mission of God is too great for us to accomplish by ourselves. In order to be a part of something greater than yourself you need to push past the “me first” approach to life.
We have been created not just to take up space, consume resources and pass time. There is an important role for us to play in what God is doing in this world. The work of God advances not as individuals do good deeds but as they team together to do God’s work.
We have been created not just to take up space, consume resources and pass time. There is an important role for us to play in what God is doing in this world. The work of God advances not as individuals do good deeds but as they team together to do God’s work.
It can be difficult to keep building your life around God’s priorities. We look all around and it seems like God’s path to success is so different from the world’s path to success. We’re tempted to step outside of God’s boundaries, push ahead so that we don’t miss out on the good stuff.
It can be difficult to keep building your life around God’s priorities. We look all around and it seems like God’s path to success is so different from the world’s path to success. We’re tempted to step outside of God’s boundaries, push ahead so that we don’t miss out on the good stuff.
Illnesses (in us or those close to us) present a situation that raises uncertainty to a whole new level. We can have peace even in sickness if we humble ourselves before the Lord and keep looking to Him to sustain us.
Illnesses (in us or those close to us) present a situation that raises uncertainty to a whole new level. We can have peace even in sickness if we humble ourselves before the Lord and keep looking to Him to sustain us.
So much of life day to day is unpredictable for us. Our perspective from where we are standing has limitations that bring emotional responses and these responses threaten to rob us of the joy of life today.
So much of life day to day is unpredictable for us. Our perspective from where we are standing has limitations that bring emotional responses and these responses threaten to rob us of the joy of life today.
The intimidation of the world and our enemies can create fear and keep us from seeking God. Psalm 3 helps us remember that God is sovereignly ruling even where this is opposition.
The intimidation of the world and our enemies can create fear and keep us from seeking God. Psalm 3 helps us remember that God is sovereignly ruling even where this is opposition.
Our location and circumstances do not have to be perfect for growth. The distractions are all around us and the growing conditions almost always appear less than perfect.
Our location and circumstances do not have to be perfect for growth. The distractions are all around us and the growing conditions almost always appear less than perfect.
Church in the Valley celebrates 30 years, moving forward together to accomplish the mission!
God loves His people despite their sins and faults. God is faithful despite our unfaithfulness. We ought to view and treat people the way God does. Obedience to God (great commandment) and love for people (great commission) is fuel for the mission.
God loves His people despite their sins and faults. God is faithful despite our unfaithfulness. We ought to view and treat people the way God does. Obedience to God (great commandment) and love for people (great commission) is fuel for the mission.
We are to build up God's kingdom instead of seeking comfort by chasing and building up our own dream home or life. Instead, prioritize the eternal above the perishable.
We are to build up God's kingdom instead of seeking comfort by chasing and building up our own dream home or life. Instead, prioritize the eternal above the perishable.
The mission requires resources/ God has already provided the resources necessary, but they’re under the stewardship of His people. God “built-in” the necessity for His followers to sacrifice, trust, and obey Him.
The mission requires resources/ God has already provided the resources necessary, but they’re under the stewardship of His people. God “built-in” the necessity for His followers to sacrifice, trust, and obey Him.
Our role in the mission is to be faithful, even if things looks bleak. Faith is the mark of a good soldier.
Our role in the mission is to be faithful, even if things looks bleak. Faith is the mark of a good soldier.
God’s love is equally spread, and His heart equally broken when people are lost. He cares about the entire world, even people far from Him.
God’s love is equally spread, and His heart equally broken when people are lost. He cares about the entire world, even people far from Him.
Focusing on the "How?" can become a Trojan horse for doubting God's goodness and power and ability to direct our steps so we don't do the first thing because we can't see how it's all going to end.
Focusing on the "How?" can become a Trojan horse for doubting God's goodness and power and ability to direct our steps so we don't do the first thing because we can't see how it's all going to end.
As we live this new life, we are constantly facing forks in the road where God is calling us into deeper waters with him in faith. It is only natural that we ask the question, "What if I trust and obey him and it doesn't work out?
As we live this new life, we are constantly facing forks in the road where God is calling us into deeper waters with him in faith. It is only natural that we ask the question, "What if I trust and obey him and it doesn't work out?
When we face forks in the road, to trust and obey God or continue in the ways of life we've grown familiar with, we have all sorts of "What About" questions that fill our minds.
When we face forks in the road, to trust and obey God or continue in the ways of life we've grown familiar with, we have all sorts of "What About" questions that fill our minds.
We will focus on how long-term faithfulness and consistent courage in the face of opposition is the key to lasting impact.
We will focus on how long-term faithfulness and consistent courage in the face of opposition is the key to lasting impact.
Comparison and envy robs us of being able to enjoy God’s goodness in the lives of others—while at the same time not being able to see God’s goodness in our own. Comparison is the death of contentment and leads to much frustration in life.
Comparison and envy robs us of being able to enjoy God’s goodness in the lives of others—while at the same time not being able to see God’s goodness in our own. Comparison is the death of contentment and leads to much frustration in life.
We face tremendous pressure in life to be Wonder-Woman or Wonder-man—but we’re not super heroes and end up burning out on the pressure we experience from without and within.
We face tremendous pressure in life to be Wonder-Woman or Wonder-man—but we’re not super heroes and end up burning out on the pressure we experience from without and within.
God has designed men to thrive when they exercise the courage to fight for the right things and show strength by bearing their responsibility well.
God has designed men to thrive when they exercise the courage to fight for the right things and show strength by bearing their responsibility well.
God doesn’t want His people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it – he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions.
God doesn’t want His people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it – he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions.
Peter was a man so passionate for the lost, that he literally walked right into harm’s way just to reach the next person. God and others warned him that he would face tremendous opposition, but he would not respond by altering course.
Peter was a man so passionate for the lost, that he literally walked right into harm’s way just to reach the next person. God and others warned him that he would face tremendous opposition, but he would not respond by altering course.
Moses, though he felt under qualified for the task (Exodus 3-4), played a major role as a key figure in God’s plan in history. Not a perfect leader, but determined to keep focused on moving God’s people towards God’s promises.
Moses, though he felt under qualified for the task (Exodus 3-4), played a major role as a key figure in God’s plan in history. Not a perfect leader, but determined to keep focused on moving God’s people towards God’s promises.
Sarah was a woman who by our standards would have ample reason to fear. Fear is a normal human emotion that can come upon us (alerts us to danger). What we do with fear or sudden fear can set a direction for our life.
Sarah was a woman who by our standards would have ample reason to fear. Fear is a normal human emotion that can come upon us (alerts us to danger). What we do with fear or sudden fear can set a direction for our life.
As we embrace correction (last week) God can continue to train us as we seek Him and we can grow in wisdom over the long haul as we rely on His resources.
As we embrace correction (last week) God can continue to train us as we seek Him and we can grow in wisdom over the long haul as we rely on His resources.
For wisdom to stick over the long haul we need to learn how to embrace correction (which is why we need humility and fear of the Lord). Wisdom’s approach in developing us comes with correction first, then principles and reasons follow.
For wisdom to stick over the long haul we need to learn how to embrace correction (which is why we need humility and fear of the Lord). Wisdom’s approach in developing us comes with correction first, then principles and reasons follow.
To improve and grow in life we need wisdom. When we’ve experienced aspects of life unravelling, we need wisdom to see things differently. Wisdom allows us to see, consider, and learn from life and our circumstances
To improve and grow in life we need wisdom. When we’ve experienced aspects of life unravelling, we need wisdom to see things differently. Wisdom allows us to see, consider, and learn from life and our circumstances
We can tend to live with the same problems plaguing us our entire lives. To truly change means we cannot just change our circumstances—we need to change our heart and what/who we live for.
We can tend to live with the same problems plaguing us our entire lives. To truly change means we cannot just change our circumstances—we need to change our heart and what/who we live for.
Sometimes conflict and injustice comes into our lives and we didn’t directly provoke it. Whenever injustice occurs, it’s natural to desire retaliation, but when we pursue our own retaliation it reveals a heart that doesn’t trust in the Lord’s ultimate rescue.
Sometimes conflict and injustice comes into our lives and we didn’t directly provoke it. Whenever injustice occurs, it’s natural to desire retaliation, but when we pursue our own retaliation it reveals a heart that doesn’t trust in the Lord’s ultimate rescue.
Most of the time when quarrels and conflict arise we look for someone to blame, but James makes it clear that conflict with others is often rooted in our own blocked goals and desires.
Most of the time when quarrels and conflict arise we look for someone to blame, but James makes it clear that conflict with others is often rooted in our own blocked goals and desires.
All of us struggle with controlling our speech. Every time we open our mouth we are revealing to others something about us. What we say gives us away!
All of us struggle with controlling our speech. Every time we open our mouth we are revealing to others something about us. What we say gives us away!
One of the major pressure points we face is learning to be people of action. Often we hear from God on something specific in our life, but we simply put it into our “interesting information” box. Over time without application, change doesn’t come.
One of the major pressure points we face is learning to be people of action. Often we hear from God on something specific in our life, but we simply put it into our “interesting information” box. Over time without application, change doesn’t come.
We often don’t realize the deadly process that is taking place when we are being tempted. Temptation (enticing our desires) often wears a mask, so we often mistake it as harmless.
We often don’t realize the deadly process that is taking place when we are being tempted. Temptation (enticing our desires) often wears a mask, so we often mistake it as harmless.
People will last forever but the trouble they’re experiencing right now will not, and it is accomplishing a purpose with an eternal dimension.
People will last forever but the trouble they’re experiencing right now will not, and it is accomplishing a purpose with an eternal dimension.
Christ followers are commanded not to set their hope on the uncertainty of riches but on God.
Christ followers are commanded not to set their hope on the uncertainty of riches but on God.
Since people live forever, our accomplishments on earth find their place of importance compared to the privilege of knowing Christ and doing His work on earth.
Since people live forever, our accomplishments on earth find their place of importance compared to the privilege of knowing Christ and doing His work on earth.
It’s important to realize the way we choose to build our lives will be judged by the Lord. Since we are made to live forever, how should that weigh into our decision-making matrix, and how does it impact my life’s direction and the investment of my time, treasure and talent?
It’s important to realize the way we choose to build our lives will be judged by the Lord. Since we are made to live forever, how should that weigh into our decision-making matrix, and how does it impact my life’s direction and the investment of my time, treasure and talent?
As we relate to our family, friends, co-workers, neighbors and acquaintances…we must keep in mind that people are not “throw-aways”, they last forever.
As we relate to our family, friends, co-workers, neighbors and acquaintances…we must keep in mind that people are not “throw-aways”, they last forever.
The most important decision we make in this life is whether we will accept Christ and follow Him as Lord. Everything else we do is shaped by this choice. The Bible shows us that we will spend forever with God in heaven or separated from Him in hell – this is the backdrop of our lives.
The most important decision we make in this life is whether we will accept Christ and follow Him as Lord. Everything else we do is shaped by this choice. The Bible shows us that we will spend forever with God in heaven or separated from Him in hell – this is the backdrop of our lives.
Nehemiah gives us a vision of how we could change, grow and rebuild the walls that have fallen apart in our lives.
Nehemiah gives us a vision of how we could change, grow and rebuild the walls that have fallen apart in our lives.
The Christmas story presents many aspects of uncertainty as Jesus’ birth was predicted and as He was born.
The Christmas story presents many aspects of uncertainty as Jesus’ birth was predicted and as He was born.
Comparison is a trap that can limit our contentment and at Christmastime it’s easy to get caught in the undertow of wishing you were in someone else’s shoes or compare where you are to where you wish you were.
Comparison is a trap that can limit our contentment and at Christmastime it’s easy to get caught in the undertow of wishing you were in someone else’s shoes or compare where you are to where you wish you were.
Demands tend to increase exponentially during the Holidays. We can become overwhelmed by the demands of expectations, pressures, and people. If we’re not careful, the demands can take away from the joy of the moment.
Demands tend to increase exponentially during the Holidays. We can become overwhelmed by the demands of expectations, pressures, and people. If we’re not careful, the demands can take away from the joy of the moment.
Small towns take on identifying characteristics – some are friendly and hospitable to one another and outsiders and some are not. Love and hospitality are key marks of a Kingdom community.
Small towns take on identifying characteristics – some are friendly and hospitable to one another and outsiders and some are not. Love and hospitality are key marks of a Kingdom community.
Relationships are easily fragmented in communities. Feuds develop that last for decades in small towns. When there is conflict in the church, we must respond in the right way so we can experience and show the world how to handle it God’s way.
Relationships are easily fragmented in communities. Feuds develop that last for decades in small towns. When there is conflict in the church, we must respond in the right way so we can experience and show the world how to handle it God’s way.
The heroes of the town shape the ideals of the community and help to form a community mindset of what’s most important. In the church, the leaders are to be held to a strict standard of character, followers are to focus on making it a joy for their leaders, and godly cooperation helps the community fulfill its purpose.
The heroes of the town shape the ideals of the community and help to form a community mindset of what’s most important. In the church, the leaders are to be held to a strict standard of character, followers are to focus on making it a joy for their leaders, and godly cooperation helps the community fulfill its purpose.
God intends for Christ followers to get connected, to stay connected and use their energy and abilities for the common good. There are many churches to choose from in a given area so we must take initiative to connect to a local church, stay connected and then work for the common good of the church’s people and mission.
God intends for Christ followers to get connected, to stay connected and use their energy and abilities for the common good. There are many churches to choose from in a given area so we must take initiative to connect to a local church, stay connected and then work for the common good of the church’s people and mission.
A community is made up of people who live within its borders and a common identity develops from growing up in it and being a part of the life of the small town. In the church community, we’re born into the family/community when we are “born again” in Jesus. We have a common identity in Him and live within the boundaries He sets for life.
A community is made up of people who live within its borders and a common identity develops from growing up in it and being a part of the life of the small town. In the church community, we’re born into the family/community when we are “born again” in Jesus. We have a common identity in Him and live within the boundaries He sets for life.
The need and desire community is connected to the way God made us. He made us in His image. He is a relational God, He experiences community within His own being (in the trinity), and he made us to live in community.
The need and desire community is connected to the way God made us. He made us in His image. He is a relational God, He experiences community within His own being (in the trinity), and he made us to live in community.
It would seem that if we just had a little more money, our problems in life would be solved. Our current financial situation rarely seems to be enough, so we are often tempted to scan for more.
It would seem that if we just had a little more money, our problems in life would be solved. Our current financial situation rarely seems to be enough, so we are often tempted to scan for more.
Mundane responsibilities year after year seem to threaten the sweet life. Joy comes as a gift when we set our hearts to please God as we faithfully pursue our responsibilitie
Mundane responsibilities year after year seem to threaten the sweet life. Joy comes as a gift when we set our hearts to please God as we faithfully pursue our responsibilitie
We all would love to experience a life of peace and harmony, but nothing destroys our happiness as quickly as relational conflict. When conflict erupts, we have two choices. We can either be robbed of our joy or do the hard work of making peace.
We all would love to experience a life of peace and harmony, but nothing destroys our happiness as quickly as relational conflict. When conflict erupts, we have two choices. We can either be robbed of our joy or do the hard work of making peace.
The cultural American Dream involves achieving a higher and higher level status and importance. The way to get ahead seems like it should come through pushing our way through the crowd or stepping on others along the way, but Choosing humility brings God’s blessing and exalting.
The cultural American Dream involves achieving a higher and higher level status and importance. The way to get ahead seems like it should come through pushing our way through the crowd or stepping on others along the way, but Choosing humility brings God’s blessing and exalting.
Being a part of God’s mission to help people come to know Christ is the most fulfilling thing we can be a part of…Everything else we give ourselves to is too small. God’s desire is to bring His salvation to the ends of the world.
Being a part of God’s mission to help people come to know Christ is the most fulfilling thing we can be a part of…Everything else we give ourselves to is too small. God’s desire is to bring His salvation to the ends of the world.
Telling others about Christ is the focal point of the church. This is what being a missionary is all about. However, we are not meant to be a Lone Ranger missionary. God wants us to team together to tell, bring, and show Christ’s love to those around us.
Telling others about Christ is the focal point of the church. This is what being a missionary is all about. However, we are not meant to be a Lone Ranger missionary. God wants us to team together to tell, bring, and show Christ’s love to those around us.
We tend to think in “us” and “them” categories in life and this can distance ourselves from people who are not like us. The same distance can exist with Christians. However, to be effective in evangelism we must learn from Jesus who bridged the distance with people and spent time with “them.”
We tend to think in “us” and “them” categories in life and this can distance ourselves from people who are not like us. The same distance can exist with Christians. However, to be effective in evangelism we must learn from Jesus who bridged the distance with people and spent time with “them.”
Everyday Missionaries carry secrets the world needs to know. We carry the secret things of God. Christians cannot keep these secrets to ourselves—we must be faithful to tell them to others because God has entrusted these secrets to all who follow Him.
Everyday Missionaries carry secrets the world needs to know. We carry the secret things of God. Christians cannot keep these secrets to ourselves—we must be faithful to tell them to others because God has entrusted these secrets to all who follow Him.
We'll show the value of serving from God’s perspective and how the most important in His Kingdom are servants.
We'll show the value of serving from God’s perspective and how the most important in His Kingdom are servants.
Our tithe is a percentage that represents the whole of our wealth (and life). When we give a portion of our income, we acknowledge God’s rightful place in our lives.
Our tithe is a percentage that represents the whole of our wealth (and life). When we give a portion of our income, we acknowledge God’s rightful place in our lives.
The Word of God is both a “level” and “compass” for our lives. When we gauge our words and actions by Scripture, we can bring them in line to be straight (or level) and pleasing to God and also points to true north orienting us to God’s will as we face daily conversations and challenges.
The Word of God is both a “level” and “compass” for our lives. When we gauge our words and actions by Scripture, we can bring them in line to be straight (or level) and pleasing to God and also points to true north orienting us to God’s will as we face daily conversations and challenges.
When we worship God, we give Him the honor that is due Him as our Maker and the one who died for us. We come together in worship to recognize His rightful place in our lives.
When we worship God, we give Him the honor that is due Him as our Maker and the one who died for us. We come together in worship to recognize His rightful place in our lives.
When unfaithfulness exists in relationships, trust erodes and relationships die. Love and Faithfulness are the keys to rebuild trust.
When unfaithfulness exists in relationships, trust erodes and relationships die. Love and Faithfulness are the keys to rebuild trust.
Jealousy and Rivalry flow out of a deep rooted selfishness to get our own way. When we see an advantage that another has—or may get—we resent that they have it (Jealousy) and rival against them to get what they get (Selfish Ambition). We need the Lord's help for our attitudes and actions to change.
Jealousy and Rivalry flow out of a deep rooted selfishness to get our own way. When we see an advantage that another has—or may get—we resent that they have it (Jealousy) and rival against them to get what they get (Selfish Ambition). We need the Lord's help for our attitudes and actions to change.
Using others to meet my own needs appears in movies a lot and in this continuation of the story of Tarzan, we find him being manipulated to accomplish the goals of the authority over him but is lead by lies and deception.
Using others to meet my own needs appears in movies a lot and in this continuation of the story of Tarzan, we find him being manipulated to accomplish the goals of the authority over him but is lead by lies and deception.
Poor communication is a major factor in most conflict. When it’s time to listen we may talk and when it’s time to encourage we may want to instruct. The Bible actually provides a helpful guide for communication. Our words should edify/build up according to one’s need.
Poor communication is a major factor in most conflict. When it’s time to listen we may talk and when it’s time to encourage we may want to instruct. The Bible actually provides a helpful guide for communication. Our words should edify/build up according to one’s need.
The characters both professionally and personally keep everyone in the dark about who they are out of self-preservation. This is actually a struggle we all deal with. If we don’t watch out, this can lead to isolation and not being known which goes against how God made us since he made us for community.
The characters both professionally and personally keep everyone in the dark about who they are out of self-preservation. This is actually a struggle we all deal with. If we don’t watch out, this can lead to isolation and not being known which goes against how God made us since he made us for community.
A major relationship killer is pride. When we refuse to ask forgiveness when we’ve blown it or grant forgiveness when someone has wronged us—major cracks begin to appear and widen in any relationship.
A major relationship killer is pride. When we refuse to ask forgiveness when we’ve blown it or grant forgiveness when someone has wronged us—major cracks begin to appear and widen in any relationship.
God doesn’t want His people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it – he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions.
God doesn’t want His people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it – he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions.
Followers of Jesus can look forward to spending an eternity with Him. God also wants us to experience the joy of walking with Him in this life by faithfully fixing our eyes on Jesus, keeping a firm grip on our identity in Christ, staying on the right path, and intently listening to God's voice.
Followers of Jesus can look forward to spending an eternity with Him. God also wants us to experience the joy of walking with Him in this life by faithfully fixing our eyes on Jesus, keeping a firm grip on our identity in Christ, staying on the right path, and intently listening to God's voice.
In the future, God will wrap up the story of the earth as we know it. He will deal with the problems that have plagued mankind. The curses will be reversed and we see God setting up a future with His people.
In the future, God will wrap up the story of the earth as we know it. He will deal with the problems that have plagued mankind. The curses will be reversed and we see God setting up a future with His people.
When God’s people were floundering in sin and lacking reliable leadership, God Himself stepped into human history. The climax of Jesus' life was when he willingly suffered and died to pay for mankind’s rebellion.
When God’s people were floundering in sin and lacking reliable leadership, God Himself stepped into human history. The climax of Jesus' life was when he willingly suffered and died to pay for mankind’s rebellion.
Leadership is something we see wired into creation. Good leadership provides protection and God blesses and can guide through it. God raised up different kinds of leaders over groups of people who played a role(s) for a season.
Leadership is something we see wired into creation. Good leadership provides protection and God blesses and can guide through it. God raised up different kinds of leaders over groups of people who played a role(s) for a season.
Throughout the Bible, we see that we are in a fight (Cosmic War – Ephesians 6). We are always facing opposition (Flesh, World, Devil) and if we will battle effectively as He directs, He gives the victory.
Throughout the Bible, we see that we are in a fight (Cosmic War – Ephesians 6). We are always facing opposition (Flesh, World, Devil) and if we will battle effectively as He directs, He gives the victory.
We see throughout the stories in Genesis that God can be depended on to rescue His people.
We see throughout the stories in Genesis that God can be depended on to rescue His people.
The first family moves on and multiplies as God had commanded. Sin shows up right away in the next generation, and has been a problem ever since.
The first family moves on and multiplies as God had commanded. Sin shows up right away in the next generation, and has been a problem ever since.
Everything in the story takes a major turn with the introduction of a villain and human rebellion. Despite the boundaries, relationship and provisions, the first man and woman decided to rebel from God resulting in severe consequences. Surprisingly we are reminded here that even when things fall apart, God’s love and perfect plan prevails.
Everything in the story takes a major turn with the introduction of a villain and human rebellion. Despite the boundaries, relationship and provisions, the first man and woman decided to rebel from God resulting in severe consequences. Surprisingly we are reminded here that even when things fall apart, God’s love and perfect plan prevails.
In the beginning of this story, we see the eternal uncreated God create an inhabitable planet prepared for His prized creation. They were flesh and blood living beings who would bear His image before creation. God related to them and gave a mandate set direction for the focus of their lives
In the beginning of this story, we see the eternal uncreated God create an inhabitable planet prepared for His prized creation. They were flesh and blood living beings who would bear His image before creation. God related to them and gave a mandate set direction for the focus of their lives
Life today is uncertain which can breed fear and anxiety. Join us for perspective, principles, and practical tools to help us manage our fears and help others to do the same.
Life today is uncertain which can breed fear and anxiety. Join us for perspective, principles, and practical tools to help us manage our fears and help others to do the same.
The day of the resurrection, Jesus appears veiled before two men walking along a road. They were discussing all of the events that had recently been unfolding. This same God who they encountered on the road has a story that resonates in our hearts as we hear and personally identify with His great story.
The day of the resurrection, Jesus appears veiled before two men walking along a road. They were discussing all of the events that had recently been unfolding. This same God who they encountered on the road has a story that resonates in our hearts as we hear and personally identify with His great story.
The privilege of voting brings the responsibility to use the power of our vote for good. In addition to the vote, individual Christians and their church communities are needed to be the “moral compass” for our society and should aim to persuade others of the reasonableness of the truth and avoid being pushy or obnoxious.
The privilege of voting brings the responsibility to use the power of our vote for good. In addition to the vote, individual Christians and their church communities are needed to be the “moral compass” for our society and should aim to persuade others of the reasonableness of the truth and avoid being pushy or obnoxious.
Christians need to understand the vital connection between absolute truth and the health of our society, then act to influence government to play the role God assigned and to do His will.
Christians need to understand the vital connection between absolute truth and the health of our society, then act to influence government to play the role God assigned and to do His will.
An election year brings promises from politicians to fix the problems of our society. If not careful, believers can feel like getting the right person in office is our hope for a better life. As Christ followers, we have only one hope, God Himself.
An election year brings promises from politicians to fix the problems of our society. If not careful, believers can feel like getting the right person in office is our hope for a better life. As Christ followers, we have only one hope, God Himself.
The core of productivity is to know the highest priority for each day and situation and choose to put it first.
The core of productivity is to know the highest priority for each day and situation and choose to put it first.
Character is the key component in choosing what’s best and doing God’s will versus our own. Good fruit in life flows from having the kind of character that keeps choosing God’s will to bless others.
Character is the key component in choosing what’s best and doing God’s will versus our own. Good fruit in life flows from having the kind of character that keeps choosing God’s will to bless others.
The way to peace without having everything under control, when there are all kinds of loose ends, the to do list is growing to gargantuan size, when interruptions abound, is to keep going to God in prayer.
The way to peace without having everything under control, when there are all kinds of loose ends, the to do list is growing to gargantuan size, when interruptions abound, is to keep going to God in prayer.
The only way to be truly productive is to realize we don’t have to be productive. Embracing the truth that God accept us apart from good works is the precise thing that motivates me to excel in good works.
The only way to be truly productive is to realize we don’t have to be productive. Embracing the truth that God accept us apart from good works is the precise thing that motivates me to excel in good works.
Jesus made it clear that God’s will is to love others (including enemies, those we don’t agree with, strangers, and all). You make the most of time by loving your neighbor, the person in your path right now.
Jesus made it clear that God’s will is to love others (including enemies, those we don’t agree with, strangers, and all). You make the most of time by loving your neighbor, the person in your path right now.
The core purpose of our lives is to do good for others to the glory of God. Good works should be a part of our everyday lives as we aim to fulfill the Great Mandate, the Great Commandment and the Great Commission.
The core purpose of our lives is to do good for others to the glory of God. Good works should be a part of our everyday lives as we aim to fulfill the Great Mandate, the Great Commandment and the Great Commission.
God made us to make progress in life toward the right things. He wants to help us be productive by bearing the right kind of fruit as we handle our stewardships.
God made us to make progress in life toward the right things. He wants to help us be productive by bearing the right kind of fruit as we handle our stewardships.
Fret, worry and anxiousness cripples us. They stop us in our tracks to borrow trouble from the future. It's easy to fall into worry at the beginning of the year as we look into the unknown of 2016. So, how can we deal with worry?
Fret, worry and anxiousness cripples us. They stop us in our tracks to borrow trouble from the future. It's easy to fall into worry at the beginning of the year as we look into the unknown of 2016. So, how can we deal with worry?
The end of the year can either be exciting and fun as you look back on all that you have been able to accomplish or grow in over the past year or it can also be a time of regret as you look at some of the missed opportunities or times you blew it in the last year.
The end of the year can either be exciting and fun as you look back on all that you have been able to accomplish or grow in over the past year or it can also be a time of regret as you look at some of the missed opportunities or times you blew it in the last year.
Scripture emphasizes the importance of giving and how generosity brings grace and blessing. Yet, all of us must start being generous for us to experience the blessing that comes.
Scripture emphasizes the importance of giving and how generosity brings grace and blessing. Yet, all of us must start being generous for us to experience the blessing that comes.
Most of us are rich by the world’s standard. We all have extra of something—cars, clothes, food, etc. The key is what we do with the extra and what we’ve been given. No matter our situation we can be generous by looking at the extra’s we have differently.
Most of us are rich by the world’s standard. We all have extra of something—cars, clothes, food, etc. The key is what we do with the extra and what we’ve been given. No matter our situation we can be generous by looking at the extra’s we have differently.
God sets the pace in generosity. We did not invent generosity—God did. That is who He is. He is generous as Creator as He gave things for our enjoyment and He was ultimately generous in the sending of His son, Jesus, which represents gracious generosity which provides real hope.
God sets the pace in generosity. We did not invent generosity—God did. That is who He is. He is generous as Creator as He gave things for our enjoyment and He was ultimately generous in the sending of His son, Jesus, which represents gracious generosity which provides real hope.
Thanksgiving in Scripture flows out of recognizing all God has done for us. Much of our perspective of God is linked to how we view Him. How we see God is crucial for the way we relate to Him and how serious we take Him.
Thanksgiving in Scripture flows out of recognizing all God has done for us. Much of our perspective of God is linked to how we view Him. How we see God is crucial for the way we relate to Him and how serious we take Him.
We all set a course in life, and what we do when things go wrong speaks volumes about our life’s focus. Paul's story is an amazing example of how to zero in on what’s most important and endure despite difficulties.
We all set a course in life, and what we do when things go wrong speaks volumes about our life’s focus. Paul's story is an amazing example of how to zero in on what’s most important and endure despite difficulties.
We all set a course in life, and what we do when things go wrong speaks volumes about our life’s focus. Paul's story is an amazing example of how to zero in on what’s most important and endure despite difficulties.
Where we turn when we need help and guidance is critical, and we’re often tempted to rely too heavily on ourselves or other people, but merely human power and insight are insufficient. It's forming daily habits of going to God’s Word & Prayer and therefore tapping into spiritual resources that truly change us.
Where we turn when we need help and guidance is critical, and we’re often tempted to rely too heavily on ourselves or other people, but merely human power and insight are insufficient. It's forming daily habits of going to God’s Word & Prayer and therefore tapping into spiritual resources that truly change us.
Some people in life sound like a broken record. They always cycle around to the same subjects (whether sports, movies, current events, their faith). Paul was committed to preaching the good news of Jesus to as many people as he could.
Some people in life sound like a broken record. They always cycle around to the same subjects (whether sports, movies, current events, their faith). Paul was committed to preaching the good news of Jesus to as many people as he could.
The conversion of Paul sounds more like a shocking news story! How does a hate filled murderer who caused terror among the early Christian church become the instrument that God would use to evangelize people seemingly out of reach? Paul’s story is the greatest example that there isn’t a person too far gone.
The conversion of Paul sounds more like a shocking news story! How does a hate filled murderer who caused terror among the early Christian church become the instrument that God would use to evangelize people seemingly out of reach? Paul’s story is the greatest example that there isn’t a person too far gone.
Many times we ask ourselves “What was I thinking?” when we have made poor decisions, but often times we don’t actually take the time to answer that question. It would be helpful to help answer some of what drives people to make poor decisions again and again
Many times we ask ourselves “What was I thinking?” when we have made poor decisions, but often times we don’t actually take the time to answer that question. It would be helpful to help answer some of what drives people to make poor decisions again and again
This is aimed at how to begin again in our main responsibilities God has given us. Whenever we have failed at work (and other major responsibilities) we tend to become discouraged, want to give up, lose confidence and move hesitantly toward the things God wants us to take care of.
This is aimed at how to begin again in our main responsibilities God has given us. Whenever we have failed at work (and other major responsibilities) we tend to become discouraged, want to give up, lose confidence and move hesitantly toward the things God wants us to take care of.
Many times people ignore their finances as they restart life. Yet, finances is an area of life that can enslave us and many of us experience great anxiety as we look at our bank accounts and the debts we have.
Many times people ignore their finances as they restart life. Yet, finances is an area of life that can enslave us and many of us experience great anxiety as we look at our bank accounts and the debts we have.
Rebuilding trust is key for broken relationships to be made whole again. Trust can be easily broken but can take years to rebuild. Yielding to Christ gives us the power as we re-grow trust with others through love and faithfulness.
Rebuilding trust is key for broken relationships to be made whole again. Trust can be easily broken but can take years to rebuild. Yielding to Christ gives us the power as we re-grow trust with others through love and faithfulness.
We all have decisions we’ve made and experiences that we regret. Key point to connect from last week--A relationship with Christ ensures we have hope despite our past.
We all have decisions we’ve made and experiences that we regret. Key point to connect from last week--A relationship with Christ ensures we have hope despite our past.
All of us experience problems and frustration in life. The starting point is to admit we need help and as we admit our sin we can actually experience restoration—not the condemnation we so fear.
All of us experience problems and frustration in life. The starting point is to admit we need help and as we admit our sin we can actually experience restoration—not the condemnation we so fear.
Joshua shows how living to serve God is the priority that unfolds God’s blessing through the years and allows us to build a legacy for future generations.
Joshua shows how living to serve God is the priority that unfolds God’s blessing through the years and allows us to build a legacy for future generations.
Often in this world, to make progress and to do the good God has given us to do requires strength and courage in the face of adversity. Jesus and the apostles show us how to bear responsibility to accomplish God’s goals without giving into the fear of man.
Often in this world, to make progress and to do the good God has given us to do requires strength and courage in the face of adversity. Jesus and the apostles show us how to bear responsibility to accomplish God’s goals without giving into the fear of man.
Jesus gives us a compelling vision for the mission of the church. As we participate with the church community to reach others for Christ, we are raiders going behind enemy lines to bring people out of hell and into eternal life.
Jesus gives us a compelling vision for the mission of the church. As we participate with the church community to reach others for Christ, we are raiders going behind enemy lines to bring people out of hell and into eternal life.
Jesus leads us to get past being a burden to others and motivates with a vision that compels us to give our resources to others and His cause.
Jesus leads us to get past being a burden to others and motivates with a vision that compels us to give our resources to others and His cause.
Paul makes a statement of his overall goal in life – “that I may know Christ and the power of His resurrection” and then he takes personal ownership of that goal. In the entire passage, he lays out a template of what is required to accomplish the vision God has for us.
Paul makes a statement of his overall goal in life – “that I may know Christ and the power of His resurrection” and then he takes personal ownership of that goal. In the entire passage, he lays out a template of what is required to accomplish the vision God has for us.
To encourage the 50’s – 60’s+ to keep relying on God and use their influence and wisdom to invest in and train the younger generations.
To encourage the 50’s – 60’s+ to keep relying on God and use their influence and wisdom to invest in and train the younger generations.
Encourage the 40’s to bear up under the intense pressure that comes in mid life. Keeping a resolute and upbeat focus on God can be quite a challenge in these difficult years where stress is high and resources are lean.
Encourage the 40’s to bear up under the intense pressure that comes in mid life. Keeping a resolute and upbeat focus on God can be quite a challenge in these difficult years where stress is high and resources are lean.
To encourage people to focus on steady and careful obedience. There is a right way to develop leadership and influence; to be faithful with your current responsibilities and stewardships. The future will grow out of what you are building in the present. Build carefully on the perspective given in the Bible.
To encourage people to focus on steady and careful obedience. There is a right way to develop leadership and influence; to be faithful with your current responsibilities and stewardships. The future will grow out of what you are building in the present. Build carefully on the perspective given in the Bible.
The underlying idea is “why can’t TED have what he wants!?” The premise is “Legalize Ted” and the idea is Ted shouldn’t be discriminated against.
The underlying idea is “why can’t TED have what he wants!?” The premise is “Legalize Ted” and the idea is Ted shouldn’t be discriminated against.
The idea of survival and individualism is the major theme. The premise of “survival” is not entirely bad, but in Terminator, there is no God. Survival is completely dependent on human ability to fight and out maneuver “Artificial Intelligence.”
The idea of survival and individualism is the major theme. The premise of “survival” is not entirely bad, but in Terminator, there is no God. Survival is completely dependent on human ability to fight and out maneuver “Artificial Intelligence.”
The movie seems to be focusing on the tension in the emotions between joy and sadness, yet the overarching theme behind this is how to navigate your emotions/heart (or at least what impacts your heart). "Follow Your Heart" is really a pull to trust in your feelings, gut, intuition, conscience.
The movie seems to be focusing on the tension in the emotions between joy and sadness, yet the overarching theme behind this is how to navigate your emotions/heart (or at least what impacts your heart). "Follow Your Heart" is really a pull to trust in your feelings, gut, intuition, conscience.
“Follow Your Dream” appears in many movies. It shows up in the form of not giving up and pursuing your dreams and passions no matter what. Problem is that not every dream is worth following and some dreams may not fit us.
“Follow Your Dream” appears in many movies. It shows up in the form of not giving up and pursuing your dreams and passions no matter what. Problem is that not every dream is worth following and some dreams may not fit us.
The whole Entourage enterprise hinges on this group of men who stick together as they discover fame and fortune together. Their general approach they have to each decision is how much fun, fame, pleasure can be gained by each choice.
The whole Entourage enterprise hinges on this group of men who stick together as they discover fame and fortune together. Their general approach they have to each decision is how much fun, fame, pleasure can be gained by each choice.
God doesn’t want His people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it – he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions.
God doesn’t want His people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it – he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions.
What does the Bible say about getting promoted? The key to getting promoted is humility. It is completely backwards from our culture. think we need to promote ourselves so we don’t get passed over for the promotion at work.
What does the Bible say about getting promoted? The key to getting promoted is humility. It is completely backwards from our culture. think we need to promote ourselves so we don’t get passed over for the promotion at work.
This message will focus on the motive behind who we work for. The motive behind our service is the reward and punishment that we receive from the Lord.
This message will focus on the motive behind who we work for. The motive behind our service is the reward and punishment that we receive from the Lord.
There is a way to go about our work that brings success and blessing from God. One of the principles that you find in scripture that comes up over and over again is “working wholeheartedly.” Working wholeheartedly means to heartily work with kindness and good will.
There is a way to go about our work that brings success and blessing from God. One of the principles that you find in scripture that comes up over and over again is “working wholeheartedly.” Working wholeheartedly means to heartily work with kindness and good will.
What is work? Work is not just a job or career. Work is the responsibilities that we have on our plate. having the right perspective on what work is sets us up for success.
What is work? Work is not just a job or career. Work is the responsibilities that we have on our plate. having the right perspective on what work is sets us up for success.
When people suffer hardships or see the horrible things that evil people do, they question the goodness of God. In this message we will show how a God who created the universe and allows evil can be good.
When people suffer hardships or see the horrible things that evil people do, they question the goodness of God. In this message we will show how a God who created the universe and allows evil can be good.
To many, the Bible is confusing and irrelevant. The Bible claims to be God’s word to us, why should I trust its claim? We will provide solid reasons to believe that the Bible is God’s Word and how taking it seriously is a real advantage in life.
To many, the Bible is confusing and irrelevant. The Bible claims to be God’s word to us, why should I trust its claim? We will provide solid reasons to believe that the Bible is God’s Word and how taking it seriously is a real advantage in life.
Christians seem so narrow minded, like they have it all figured out. Why are they so arrogant in this way? Jesus Himself claimed to be the “only way” to God, this leaves Christians or anyone else the option of completely accepting or rejecting Him.
Christians seem so narrow minded, like they have it all figured out. Why are they so arrogant in this way? Jesus Himself claimed to be the “only way” to God, this leaves Christians or anyone else the option of completely accepting or rejecting Him.
In this message, we will show why Jesus and Christianity are different than the other religious teachers and religions in the world.
In this message, we will show why Jesus and Christianity are different than the other religious teachers and religions in the world.
The most dangerous of the fools are the Halal and Nabal. These two fools can bring tremendous damage to people and organizations. We all should be aware of our tendency to desire praise and ability to inflict harm on others.
The most dangerous of the fools are the Halal and Nabal. These two fools can bring tremendous damage to people and organizations. We all should be aware of our tendency to desire praise and ability to inflict harm on others.
The CONTROL fool is driven from a heart of stubborn self centeredness. When we use control or anger to manipulate, we will FRUSTRATE others and eventually drive people far from us.
The CONTROL fool is driven from a heart of stubborn self centeredness. When we use control or anger to manipulate, we will FRUSTRATE others and eventually drive people far from us.
A life of ease doesn’t deliver the magic! This fool is constantly disappointed but never clues into the consequences; instead they scan the horizon for another BIG IDEA.
A life of ease doesn’t deliver the magic! This fool is constantly disappointed but never clues into the consequences; instead they scan the horizon for another BIG IDEA.
Our heart guides our approach to life and relationships. Our hearts are SAD: They contain selfishness, arrogance and damage. From these heart problems we choose strategies that create tremendous trouble in our lives
Our heart guides our approach to life and relationships. Our hearts are SAD: They contain selfishness, arrogance and damage. From these heart problems we choose strategies that create tremendous trouble in our lives
POWER cuts across many stewardships. If we seek power or influence ahead of the right procedure and timing for gaining it, the strategies we use to get it can bring us down.
POWER cuts across many stewardships. If we seek power or influence ahead of the right procedure and timing for gaining it, the strategies we use to get it can bring us down.
SEX is a gift from God to be celebrated. We must be careful to keep sex inside God’s boundaries because violating them directly impacts our family life both present and future.
SEX is a gift from God to be celebrated. We must be careful to keep sex inside God’s boundaries because violating them directly impacts our family life both present and future.
Money is a stewardship that impacts many areas of our lives. God wants us to use it for His purposes and enjoy it. Its purpose is provide for our needs and the needs of our family. It is also meant to be used to help others, to buy wisdom and bring enjoyment.
Money is a stewardship that impacts many areas of our lives. God wants us to use it for His purposes and enjoy it. Its purpose is provide for our needs and the needs of our family. It is also meant to be used to help others, to buy wisdom and bring enjoyment.
What’s the key to hanging in there with God for a lifetime? With so many who bail and check out from following Christ, what can we do remain “Convinced” until our last breath? Faith is the key—both trusting in Him and fearing Him to remain loyal no matter the cost.
What’s the key to hanging in there with God for a lifetime? With so many who bail and check out from following Christ, what can we do remain “Convinced” until our last breath? Faith is the key—both trusting in Him and fearing Him to remain loyal no matter the cost.
The goal of this message is to show how the Bible is a guide and how specific convictions help you make real progress as you walk with Holy Spirit. Maturity means living out of what is true and continuing to learn over a lifetime.
The goal of this message is to show how the Bible is a guide and how specific convictions help you make real progress as you walk with Holy Spirit. Maturity means living out of what is true and continuing to learn over a lifetime.
Becoming convinced of the right things means you have to know God and continually walk with Him over time no matter what you face. Walking with God is a learning experience and it’s something you have to fight for and devote time to. It’s not a formula but a relationship with the living God.
Becoming convinced of the right things means you have to know God and continually walk with Him over time no matter what you face. Walking with God is a learning experience and it’s something you have to fight for and devote time to. It’s not a formula but a relationship with the living God.
We are all convinced people. Everyone lives their life based on the things of which they have become convinced. Everyone, also, has real outcomes that result from the way they choose to live their life.
We are all convinced people. Everyone lives their life based on the things of which they have become convinced. Everyone, also, has real outcomes that result from the way they choose to live their life.
At the end of each year we naturally take a look back at what we have accomplished. As we take time to look back we need to continually choose contentment versus comparison.
At the end of each year we naturally take a look back at what we have accomplished. As we take time to look back we need to continually choose contentment versus comparison.
Talk is cheap, we are called to act out our faith in real life experiences. There is power in having an embodied experience where we step into action and live out our faith in tangible ways.
Talk is cheap, we are called to act out our faith in real life experiences. There is power in having an embodied experience where we step into action and live out our faith in tangible ways.
The world views “stepping down” (being forced or pressured) as a failure, but humility is the path that pleases God and fulfills His purposes.
The world views “stepping down” (being forced or pressured) as a failure, but humility is the path that pleases God and fulfills His purposes.
As opposed to turning or running away from our muddy and messy world, Jesus stepped in…. How can I step in? Rather than…moving away from problems, to comfort. God himself became personally involved in our situation in Jesus
As opposed to turning or running away from our muddy and messy world, Jesus stepped in…. How can I step in? Rather than…moving away from problems, to comfort. God himself became personally involved in our situation in Jesus
Webster describes Esprit De Corps as “feelings of loyalty, enthusiasm, and devotion to a group among people who are members of the group.” Our Esprit De Corp helps define the kind of team we will be and makes teaming up together worthwhile and effective over the long-haul.
Webster describes Esprit De Corps as “feelings of loyalty, enthusiasm, and devotion to a group among people who are members of the group.” Our Esprit De Corp helps define the kind of team we will be and makes teaming up together worthwhile and effective over the long-haul.
The personal and project values direct how we approach life and work, as we work toward the mission in our personal lives and church life. Specifically…Project values direct how we approach our work together. Personal values tell how we should approach the challenges of life.
The personal and project values direct how we approach life and work, as we work toward the mission in our personal lives and church life. Specifically…Project values direct how we approach our work together. Personal values tell how we should approach the challenges of life.
Treating each other a certain way is crucial to accomplishing the mission. When we love another—people will know we are His disciples.
Treating each other a certain way is crucial to accomplishing the mission. When we love another—people will know we are His disciples.
In this message the goal is to walk through the mission we have been given… OUR MISSION: To know, love and glorify God and be used by Him to help unchurched people become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ and to help create churches and other ministries that do the same. In short—To Love God and Love Others.
In this message the goal is to walk through the mission we have been given… OUR MISSION: To know, love and glorify God and be used by Him to help unchurched people become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ and to help create churches and other ministries that do the same. In short—To Love God and Love Others.
The fact that death is the destiny of every man brings the meaning of life into focus. Evaluating the ultimate outcome of all of our pursuits and efforts to find meaning without God help us to draw the right conclusion and give ourselves to the things that really matter.
The fact that death is the destiny of every man brings the meaning of life into focus. Evaluating the ultimate outcome of all of our pursuits and efforts to find meaning without God help us to draw the right conclusion and give ourselves to the things that really matter.
My religious habits themselves and what I do for God will bring meaning to my life. It’s a trap to start promising God that I will do something for Him to attempt to change His mind about what is best for me.
My religious habits themselves and what I do for God will bring meaning to my life. It’s a trap to start promising God that I will do something for Him to attempt to change His mind about what is best for me.
To power up on others does not bring satisfaction and leaves a person empty. Money seems to be the answer to solving my problems and allowing me to live the life I want, but it leaves us empty as well. Riches do not create the kind of life we really want.
To power up on others does not bring satisfaction and leaves a person empty. Money seems to be the answer to solving my problems and allowing me to live the life I want, but it leaves us empty as well. Riches do not create the kind of life we really want.
Our work can easily become our world and dictate the shape of the other areas of our life. Solomon shows us why this is not true and also why it’s important to enjoy your work.
Our work can easily become our world and dictate the shape of the other areas of our life. Solomon shows us why this is not true and also why it’s important to enjoy your work.
When we’re doing what we have to do (fulfilling my responsibilities), we often think: “If I could only do what my heart desires I would be happy.” Solomon testifies to the reality that fulfilling my desires is not the path to ultimate happiness.
When we’re doing what we have to do (fulfilling my responsibilities), we often think: “If I could only do what my heart desires I would be happy.” Solomon testifies to the reality that fulfilling my desires is not the path to ultimate happiness.
We’re uncomfortable with uncertainty and facing problems and decisions where we can’t get our mind and heart around all the issues. We tend to look for the latest discovery that will help us live a great life and unlock the keys to life so we never again have to deal with pain and uncertainty.
We’re uncomfortable with uncertainty and facing problems and decisions where we can’t get our mind and heart around all the issues. We tend to look for the latest discovery that will help us live a great life and unlock the keys to life so we never again have to deal with pain and uncertainty.
At one point, Solomon turned away from God and things didn’t end well. He is asking and trying to answer the question “WHAT IS THE POINT OF LIVING?" And he tries to find meaning (the “point” of living) without God.
At one point, Solomon turned away from God and things didn’t end well. He is asking and trying to answer the question “WHAT IS THE POINT OF LIVING?" And he tries to find meaning (the “point” of living) without God.
If you like to run with the crowd, kingdom living will challenge that desire. If you decide to follow Christ, don’t expect to run with the crowd. A decision to follow Christ is a decision to go against the crowd. Our lives are filled with decisions, some important while others unimportant. The most critical of all is our decision about Jesus Christ and His kingdom which determines our eternal destiny.
If you like to run with the crowd, kingdom living will challenge that desire. If you decide to follow Christ, don’t expect to run with the crowd. A decision to follow Christ is a decision to go against the crowd. Our lives are filled with decisions, some important while others unimportant. The most critical of all is our decision about Jesus Christ and His kingdom which determines our eternal destiny.
If we’re not careful, our minds can become consumed with worry and anxiety over all of our problems, future decisions or unsettled challenges. God has given us the top priority (Kingdom First), which guides our focus, and He has also provided a strategy for how to deal with the worries of tomorrow.
If we’re not careful, our minds can become consumed with worry and anxiety over all of our problems, future decisions or unsettled challenges. God has given us the top priority (Kingdom First), which guides our focus, and He has also provided a strategy for how to deal with the worries of tomorrow.
Our use of God’s resources is an expression of His rule over our lives. The grip of greed and materialism is strong and the only way to break free is to continually grow in generosity.
Our use of God’s resources is an expression of His rule over our lives. The grip of greed and materialism is strong and the only way to break free is to continually grow in generosity.
God to provide, He’s a good Father, who gives good gifts and guidance to His children. Jesus commands us to “ask, seek, knock” and promises that the Father hears and is concerned.
God to provide, He’s a good Father, who gives good gifts and guidance to His children. Jesus commands us to “ask, seek, knock” and promises that the Father hears and is concerned.
How we see ourselves really matters! Our identity shapes much of our outlook and activity. When we look in the mirror, who do we see? When others see us or interact with us, what impact is made? God has called us salt and light, and the world desperately needs us to encounter this part of our identity.
How we see ourselves really matters! Our identity shapes much of our outlook and activity. When we look in the mirror, who do we see? When others see us or interact with us, what impact is made? God has called us salt and light, and the world desperately needs us to encounter this part of our identity.
Can you imagine if people were trustworthy and could be counted on to straighten out the damage they do to others? Our ability to relate long term is critical since we live so much out in platoons of people.
Can you imagine if people were trustworthy and could be counted on to straighten out the damage they do to others? Our ability to relate long term is critical since we live so much out in platoons of people.
Since God has given leadership to specific people of His choosing in each arena, a good follower accepts this and works under the leader to help him/her to accomplish God’s purpose.
Since God has given leadership to specific people of His choosing in each arena, a good follower accepts this and works under the leader to help him/her to accomplish God’s purpose.
A godly leader uses their authority and influence in a way that blesses their followers as they direct them to accomplish the mission.
A godly leader uses their authority and influence in a way that blesses their followers as they direct them to accomplish the mission.
God gives authority to whomever He chooses (1 Chronicles 29:11-12). It is through this authority that He chooses to work to accomplish His purpose in the arenas of life (government, church, home, other institutions). He works through authority and not around it.
God gives authority to whomever He chooses (1 Chronicles 29:11-12). It is through this authority that He chooses to work to accomplish His purpose in the arenas of life (government, church, home, other institutions). He works through authority and not around it.
The Plant of the Apes genre is built on the premise that humans will be overtaken by apes and evolution ultimately wins. While many movies can devalue humanity for a variety of reasons, when you dig into the Scriptures, humans have a unique role on the earth that no other animal has. We are made in the image of God and because of this we have a purpose and destiny that provides hope despite our shortcomings.
The Plant of the Apes genre is built on the premise that humans will be overtaken by apes and evolution ultimately wins. While many movies can devalue humanity for a variety of reasons, when you dig into the Scriptures, humans have a unique role on the earth that no other animal has. We are made in the image of God and because of this we have a purpose and destiny that provides hope despite our shortcomings.
Whenever we face trouble or pressure that is beyond us—we have to choose where we place our trust and dependence. We can choose to depend on ourselves (in effort and/or understanding) or we can choose to remember that our hope and help comes from God.
Whenever we face trouble or pressure that is beyond us—we have to choose where we place our trust and dependence. We can choose to depend on ourselves (in effort and/or understanding) or we can choose to remember that our hope and help comes from God.
Unity and Cohesion are key for any unit/team to get anything accomplished. Any high performance team must have cohesion to function effectively. Without unity, plans fail and relationships deteriorate.
Unity and Cohesion are key for any unit/team to get anything accomplished. Any high performance team must have cohesion to function effectively. Without unity, plans fail and relationships deteriorate.
We don’t get do-overs in life, but we can choose a key characteristic that allows us to learn from whatever we face: Teachability.
We don’t get do-overs in life, but we can choose a key characteristic that allows us to learn from whatever we face: Teachability.
When we have experienced hurt and/or betrayal, our attitude and response can shape the future of our life, for better or worse. If we choose revenge, we go down a dangerous path where we distance ourselves from God and others. Bitterness causes real damage that can derail one’s life.
When we have experienced hurt and/or betrayal, our attitude and response can shape the future of our life, for better or worse. If we choose revenge, we go down a dangerous path where we distance ourselves from God and others. Bitterness causes real damage that can derail one’s life.
God doesn’t want his people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it – he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions.
God doesn’t want his people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it – he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions.
Men don’t just appear in our society. There is a maturing process that develops a man and shapes his perspective and approach to life. Boys need heroes and models who will help guide them, coach them, provide experiences that will challenge them, and ultimately call them forward as men.
Men don’t just appear in our society. There is a maturing process that develops a man and shapes his perspective and approach to life. Boys need heroes and models who will help guide them, coach them, provide experiences that will challenge them, and ultimately call them forward as men.
The first family was given a focus (aka: The Great Mandate) and within this came the opportunity to have a generational impact. The Great Mandate sets the agenda for family life and involves taking dominion and multiplying.
The first family was given a focus (aka: The Great Mandate) and within this came the opportunity to have a generational impact. The Great Mandate sets the agenda for family life and involves taking dominion and multiplying.
In a world where everyone is “entitled” to doing whatever makes them “happy,” the Scriptures presents a different role that people can have with one another as they decide to be God’s instrument for change to occur.
In a world where everyone is “entitled” to doing whatever makes them “happy,” the Scriptures presents a different role that people can have with one another as they decide to be God’s instrument for change to occur.
To truly change, we must choose faith and repentance to begin the new spiritual life God has for us. However, to continue to grow and overcome the challenges and obstacles of life, faith and repentance are still vital for our spiritual formation.
To truly change, we must choose faith and repentance to begin the new spiritual life God has for us. However, to continue to grow and overcome the challenges and obstacles of life, faith and repentance are still vital for our spiritual formation.
We all long for change because humanity is broken and our current situation is lacking the kind of life God intended for us (because of the Fall and sin is real). However, the gospel is truly good news because, through Jesus, we can experience redemption and the power to change.
We all long for change because humanity is broken and our current situation is lacking the kind of life God intended for us (because of the Fall and sin is real). However, the gospel is truly good news because, through Jesus, we can experience redemption and the power to change.
He wants us to learn how to draw the truths and principles for living out of the Bible. One of God’s purposes for the Bible is that we learn how to hear what God is saying to us and draw His instruction for our lives out of it.
He wants us to learn how to draw the truths and principles for living out of the Bible. One of God’s purposes for the Bible is that we learn how to hear what God is saying to us and draw His instruction for our lives out of it.
God made us to know, love and serve Him. He is our rightful ruler and He chooses to rule over our lives through the truth and wisdom of His Word, the Bible. God’s word is the “instrument of Christ’s Lordship over His followers” – so every idea about God, thought, action and word should be measured, tested and corrected by the Bible.
God made us to know, love and serve Him. He is our rightful ruler and He chooses to rule over our lives through the truth and wisdom of His Word, the Bible. God’s word is the “instrument of Christ’s Lordship over His followers” – so every idea about God, thought, action and word should be measured, tested and corrected by the Bible.
One of the major mental blocks to getting into the Bible is the myth that it is difficult to understand and must be interpreted by “experts”. It’s the privilege of Christ followers to get into the word of God and hear God speak directly to them.
One of the major mental blocks to getting into the Bible is the myth that it is difficult to understand and must be interpreted by “experts”. It’s the privilege of Christ followers to get into the word of God and hear God speak directly to them.
Nobody would know the truth about God or be able to relate to Him in a personal way if He didn’t choose to make Himself known. The Bible is the record of God’s self-disclosure – through it we come to know God and can learn His ways. This means we should make it a priority to get into it and understand it.
Nobody would know the truth about God or be able to relate to Him in a personal way if He didn’t choose to make Himself known. The Bible is the record of God’s self-disclosure – through it we come to know God and can learn His ways. This means we should make it a priority to get into it and understand it.
In a culture, streams of thought develop and define what the people in that culture consider normal. People are pulled by this current of thought to adopt the perspectives and values of the society at large. We must learn to respond wisely to the "informal" settings in which the mainstream flows.
In a culture, streams of thought develop and define what the people in that culture consider normal. People are pulled by this current of thought to adopt the perspectives and values of the society at large. We must learn to respond wisely to the "informal" settings in which the mainstream flows.
There is an ongoing conversation in our culture (and every culture – both formally and informally) about what lifestyles and practices are acceptable and normal. Defining normal is important because the collective understanding of right & wrong/good & bad has a powerful impact on the way the people in that culture live
There is an ongoing conversation in our culture (and every culture – both formally and informally) about what lifestyles and practices are acceptable and normal. Defining normal is important because the collective understanding of right & wrong/good & bad has a powerful impact on the way the people in that culture live
Are you feeling alone? Are you frightened by what you see? Can’t see? Did you know that God is everywhere at once. His omnipresence doesn’t mean that He is spread so thin that He has lost His grip on being God, He’s not spread thin. In fact, all of Him is fully present in all the world, certainly in our lives.
Are you feeling alone? Are you frightened by what you see? Can’t see? Did you know that God is everywhere at once. His omnipresence doesn’t mean that He is spread so thin that He has lost His grip on being God, He’s not spread thin. In fact, all of Him is fully present in all the world, certainly in our lives.
Many times the future and the unknown are aspects of life which cause much concern and fear. However, if God knows everything and is never surprised by anything, how can this help us as we approach the unknown? We can face the future with confidence because God will guide us out of His unlimited knowledge.
Many times the future and the unknown are aspects of life which cause much concern and fear. However, if God knows everything and is never surprised by anything, how can this help us as we approach the unknown? We can face the future with confidence because God will guide us out of His unlimited knowledge.
Our loving God is one of unlimited and great power and we can see God’s power in creation but God also wants us to experience His power in a personal way
Our loving God is one of unlimited and great power and we can see God’s power in creation but God also wants us to experience His power in a personal way
God’s perfect and constant love brings a comfort and security that can only be found in Him, and knowing this truth can release us to really love and experience love even when people let us down.
God’s perfect and constant love brings a comfort and security that can only be found in Him, and knowing this truth can release us to really love and experience love even when people let us down.
God grows our faith in trouble as we decide we will cooperate with Him in the midst of the hardship. When we do cooperate with Him, God Directs and Corrects us which greatly strengthens our faith is the midst of trouble.
God grows our faith in trouble as we decide we will cooperate with Him in the midst of the hardship. When we do cooperate with Him, God Directs and Corrects us which greatly strengthens our faith is the midst of trouble.
Opportunities to serve provide key ways for our faith to be stretched as we move out of our comfort zone to meet the needs of others.
Opportunities to serve provide key ways for our faith to be stretched as we move out of our comfort zone to meet the needs of others.
Doing what the Bible says is a sure way for faith to grow. When we’re challenged with teaching that calls us to action, our faith is stretched as we determine whether we are going to take following Jesus serious enough to actually do what He says.
Doing what the Bible says is a sure way for faith to grow. When we’re challenged with teaching that calls us to action, our faith is stretched as we determine whether we are going to take following Jesus serious enough to actually do what He says.
This message will look at how to grow in faith by earnestly seeking Him and committing to the essential ingredients that grow our faith.
This message will look at how to grow in faith by earnestly seeking Him and committing to the essential ingredients that grow our faith.
I can do all things through Christ who gives me the strength. Can that be true? Yes. You learn this through experience. When you set your mind to do God’s will and then God gives you both the power and resources to do it.
I can do all things through Christ who gives me the strength. Can that be true? Yes. You learn this through experience. When you set your mind to do God’s will and then God gives you both the power and resources to do it.
God says the man who does the will of God will live forever. Can that be true? Jesus’ resurrection is evidence of the reality of this statement. There is plenty of evidence that the world is passing away. Since this is true, we should set our minds to understand and do the will of God.
God says the man who does the will of God will live forever. Can that be true? Jesus’ resurrection is evidence of the reality of this statement. There is plenty of evidence that the world is passing away. Since this is true, we should set our minds to understand and do the will of God.
Grace is bigger than all of our sin, regardless of what we’ve done, how far we’ve strayed, grace is greater!
Grace is bigger than all of our sin, regardless of what we’ve done, how far we’ve strayed, grace is greater!
In the New Testament, grace is personified in Jesus, but it didn’t begin with Jesus. Stories of grace are seen throughout the Bible, beginning with creation and the first man and woman.
In the New Testament, grace is personified in Jesus, but it didn’t begin with Jesus. Stories of grace are seen throughout the Bible, beginning with creation and the first man and woman.
Helpful principles and strategies with our finances can only take us so far. We need to keep our heart in check since our heart drives what we do, which means having the right perspective and values as we manage God’s resources so we make choices that please Him
Helpful principles and strategies with our finances can only take us so far. We need to keep our heart in check since our heart drives what we do, which means having the right perspective and values as we manage God’s resources so we make choices that please Him
The way we ultimately honor God with our finances is through giving. Jesus Himself reminds us that giving leads to a more blessed life. Giving is a way of taking the focus off the money we make and putting it back where it belongs, with an open hand, for God to take and use since we cannot take anything with us.
The way we ultimately honor God with our finances is through giving. Jesus Himself reminds us that giving leads to a more blessed life. Giving is a way of taking the focus off the money we make and putting it back where it belongs, with an open hand, for God to take and use since we cannot take anything with us.
As a manager—we need to determine the areas in our finances that we need to manage more closely in order to please God and leverage the resources God has given us. We all need God’s wisdom to do this effectively.
As a manager—we need to determine the areas in our finances that we need to manage more closely in order to please God and leverage the resources God has given us. We all need God’s wisdom to do this effectively.
Our view of money is greatly determined by whether we see ourselves as money managers or money owners. This message will look at how our perspective of money greatly determines its power over us.
Our view of money is greatly determined by whether we see ourselves as money managers or money owners. This message will look at how our perspective of money greatly determines its power over us.
One of the major strategies of our enemy, Satan, is to create a feeling of isolation and alone. Often, if we feel like we are the only ones who are doing the right thing or concerned about doing right then we lose heart and we stop trying to make progress.
One of the major strategies of our enemy, Satan, is to create a feeling of isolation and alone. Often, if we feel like we are the only ones who are doing the right thing or concerned about doing right then we lose heart and we stop trying to make progress.
When something in life seems unfair, our native reflex is often to grumble, complain and blame others (family, friends or authority) or “life” itself for stalling our progress. The only thing you can control in a given scenario is your response to the circumstances.
When something in life seems unfair, our native reflex is often to grumble, complain and blame others (family, friends or authority) or “life” itself for stalling our progress. The only thing you can control in a given scenario is your response to the circumstances.
When circumstances create a situation where we need to do something we don’t want to do – we’re tempted to shrink back and stubbornly refuse to do what’s necessary to work through the problem and make progress toward our goal. When this happens, those who depend on us to come through pay a price for our selfishness.
When circumstances create a situation where we need to do something we don’t want to do – we’re tempted to shrink back and stubbornly refuse to do what’s necessary to work through the problem and make progress toward our goal. When this happens, those who depend on us to come through pay a price for our selfishness.
When we think “I’m too tired” to handle my responsibilities, we relax our grip and by doing so we miss opportunities and leave weak spots in our stewardships that hinder progress and create damage. In these moments, we must learn to tap into the strength that God will provide to accomplish His will. **Due to a technical difficulty the first minute of this recording is missing. We apologize for the inconvenience.
When we think “I’m too tired” to handle my responsibilities, we relax our grip and by doing so we miss opportunities and leave weak spots in our stewardships that hinder progress and create damage. In these moments, we must learn to tap into the strength that God will provide to accomplish His will. **Due to a technical difficulty the first minute of this recording is missing. We apologize for the inconvenience.
“It’s too hard” is a common thought pattern that causes people to lose heart and quit trying to make progress in personal growth, relating or good goals. Sometimes we get surprised to discover that something we are aiming to do is harder than we expected. This is when the attack comes.
“It’s too hard” is a common thought pattern that causes people to lose heart and quit trying to make progress in personal growth, relating or good goals. Sometimes we get surprised to discover that something we are aiming to do is harder than we expected. This is when the attack comes.
In this series, we are going to identify the enemy thoughts and learn how to apply them as we face the challenges of our everyday circumstances. Here are 5 common lies that defeat us over and over that we need to fight on a daily basis… • “It’s too hard” • “I’m too tired” • “It’s not what I want” • “It’s not fair” • “I’m the only one”
In this series, we are going to identify the enemy thoughts and learn how to apply them as we face the challenges of our everyday circumstances. Here are 5 common lies that defeat us over and over that we need to fight on a daily basis… • “It’s too hard” • “I’m too tired” • “It’s not what I want” • “It’s not fair” • “I’m the only one”
The Heart Attitudes are the framework for growing people and relationships. They are the boundaries inside of which relationships blossom along with our character.
The Heart Attitudes are the framework for growing people and relationships. They are the boundaries inside of which relationships blossom along with our character.
People are made to contribute to something bigger than ourselves. If we decide to hold back and not engage and contribute to the group (church community or family, etc.), then we “shrivel”. What happens is that our lives and our self get smaller.
People are made to contribute to something bigger than ourselves. If we decide to hold back and not engage and contribute to the group (church community or family, etc.), then we “shrivel”. What happens is that our lives and our self get smaller.
We either leave a trail of hurt and pain as we go through life or healing and joy. To a great degree, the 4 essentials will determine which we experience. We need to be accepted and belong – humility and forgiveness help us to give and experience acceptance and belonging.
We either leave a trail of hurt and pain as we go through life or healing and joy. To a great degree, the 4 essentials will determine which we experience. We need to be accepted and belong – humility and forgiveness help us to give and experience acceptance and belonging.
essential trust factors in family relationships and friendships are love and integrity (faithfulness). They are the building blocks of relationships that flourish and benefit all. As Christ followers, we are commanded to imitate God in love and faithfulness. And God, through His Spirit, will work in us to grow these essential qualities.
essential trust factors in family relationships and friendships are love and integrity (faithfulness). They are the building blocks of relationships that flourish and benefit all. As Christ followers, we are commanded to imitate God in love and faithfulness. And God, through His Spirit, will work in us to grow these essential qualities.
Human efforts at character development always fall short. We need God’s help. This is why self-help seminars, books and methods are ineffective. We must rely on God to make us the people He wants us to be so we can enjoy life and bless others in relationships.
Human efforts at character development always fall short. We need God’s help. This is why self-help seminars, books and methods are ineffective. We must rely on God to make us the people He wants us to be so we can enjoy life and bless others in relationships.
Learning how to follow His agenda is my life long focus…(When our agendas clash, I have to make a decision...abandon or follow).
Learning how to follow His agenda is my life long focus…(When our agendas clash, I have to make a decision...abandon or follow).
Our primary assignment given to us by Jesus is to help others commit to follow Him, wherever He may lead.
Our primary assignment given to us by Jesus is to help others commit to follow Him, wherever He may lead.
The core of getting even is resentment. Revenge and resentment cause all sorts of problems in relationships with others. Walk through “injustice gap” and show how to give yourself to something bigger than getting even.
The core of getting even is resentment. Revenge and resentment cause all sorts of problems in relationships with others. Walk through “injustice gap” and show how to give yourself to something bigger than getting even.
How do we deal with the masks we put on to hide who we are? How do we move from a secret life (or being unknown) to living an honest and open life with those around us?
How do we deal with the masks we put on to hide who we are? How do we move from a secret life (or being unknown) to living an honest and open life with those around us?
We have the hope and cure for the sin infection in all of us--Jesus Christ. This is why we take risks to make Him known.
We have the hope and cure for the sin infection in all of us--Jesus Christ. This is why we take risks to make Him known.
Moving from comparison/jealousy to work together, and competing vs cooperating. Life goes better when we team together.
Moving from comparison/jealousy to work together, and competing vs cooperating. Life goes better when we team together.
Box office wisdom must match God's Word to be real. It's important to read and evaluate the movies we see and filter the ideas you collect throught the truths in the Bible.
Box office wisdom must match God's Word to be real. It's important to read and evaluate the movies we see and filter the ideas you collect throught the truths in the Bible.
Faulty communication habits create frustration and pain in our family circles. If our words are motivate by a desire to please ourselves and get what we want our “circle” is going to be a miserable, discouraging, defeating place to live. Gracious speech that aims to build others up creates a family atmosphere that fosters encouragement and growth.
Faulty communication habits create frustration and pain in our family circles. If our words are motivate by a desire to please ourselves and get what we want our “circle” is going to be a miserable, discouraging, defeating place to live. Gracious speech that aims to build others up creates a family atmosphere that fosters encouragement and growth.
God has given us various stewardships in life. He wants us to be faithful to handle them in a way that honors Him and there are boundaries to my stewardships – my stewardships are my responsibility before God and yours are yours, etc. The purpose of the family is to prepare and grow children into adulthood who carry the weight of their responsibilities well. Serious problems and dysfunction develops when I… • Break through the proper boundaries in family relationships and… o Obligate my family to come through for me and help me with my problems or stewardships (obligation kills relationships short-circuits gratitude = I’m not grateful for what’s expected) o Step into rescue my family when they are working through their problems and challenges • Act as if my extended family is obligated to do what I want them to
Everybody should be expected to carry their load as they are able– especially adults. The goal with our children is to prepare them to carry their responsibilities. • Each of us has a circle of responsibility (things I’m responsible for in a given situation) and a circle of concern (things that are outside of my responsibility but that concern me) • I take God’s place in the life of my family when I consistent step in and play God by handling what concerns me but is not my responsibility • A key is to do what I need to do with my circle of responsibility and pray over my circle of concerns.
God has given us various stewardships in life. He wants us to be faithful to handle them in a way that honors Him and there are boundaries to my stewardships – my stewardships are my responsibility before God and yours are yours, etc. The purpose of the family is to prepare and grow children into adulthood who carry the weight of their responsibilities well. Serious problems and dysfunction develops when I… • Break through the proper boundaries in family relationships and… o Obligate my family to come through for me and help me with my problems or stewardships (obligation kills relationships short-circuits gratitude = I’m not grateful for what’s expected) o Step into rescue my family when they are working through their problems and challenges • Act as if my extended family is obligated to do what I want them to
Everybody should be expected to carry their load as they are able– especially adults. The goal with our children is to prepare them to carry their responsibilities. • Each of us has a circle of responsibility (things I’m responsible for in a given situation) and a circle of concern (things that are outside of my responsibility but that concern me) • I take God’s place in the life of my family when I consistent step in and play God by handling what concerns me but is not my responsibility • A key is to do what I need to do with my circle of responsibility and pray over my circle of concerns.
If we are not careful, we look to our family to meet our deepest needs – this is something only God can do. When we expect our family to come through for us and meet our needs, we drain the joy out of our family circle. We have deep needs for security and significance – these were meant to be met by God, not our family (or anyone else). Learning to deal with expectations in faith (not demanding is key to having healthy, growing family relationships. My circle gets is filled with un-pleasantries when I… • Use others to meet my needs without considering them • Intend to draw my resources for living from them, not from God • Expect too much out of my spouse or children or siblings. Demanding that… o They make us feel okay about ourselves (if they criticize, then BOOM!) o Pump us up and feel important (and they don’t think much about us at all)
Genuine faith helps me to give my expectations to God as something I desire and focus on refreshing others.
If we are not careful, we look to our family to meet our deepest needs – this is something only God can do. When we expect our family to come through for us and meet our needs, we drain the joy out of our family circle. We have deep needs for security and significance – these were meant to be met by God, not our family (or anyone else). Learning to deal with expectations in faith (not demanding is key to having healthy, growing family relationships. My circle gets is filled with un-pleasantries when I… • Use others to meet my needs without considering them • Intend to draw my resources for living from them, not from God • Expect too much out of my spouse or children or siblings. Demanding that… o They make us feel okay about ourselves (if they criticize, then BOOM!) o Pump us up and feel important (and they don’t think much about us at all)
Genuine faith helps me to give my expectations to God as something I desire and focus on refreshing others.
A follower of Christ has an overriding objective in every decision they make: to bring glory to God. It’s right for people to bring God glory because He made us. When we do bring Him honor, we really hum inside and out (life has meaning). Christ followers have already decided to live for His glory and this is at the heart of our reason for living. Which brings us to the final question: The right question to ask: What would be most honoring to God? This is a key question to ask if we want to live for more than just the mundane, if we want to really feel God’s pleasure in the way we live everyday.
A follower of Christ has an overriding objective in every decision they make: to bring glory to God. It’s right for people to bring God glory because He made us. When we do bring Him honor, we really hum inside and out (life has meaning). Christ followers have already decided to live for His glory and this is at the heart of our reason for living. Which brings us to the final question: The right question to ask: What would be most honoring to God? This is a key question to ask if we want to live for more than just the mundane, if we want to really feel God’s pleasure in the way we live everyday.
Many times, inner turmoil is connected to a decision we are facing. This can be a warning signal that we need to slow down and make sure that the choice we are about to make lines up with God’s will that He has already revealed in His Word. The right question to ask: Is there a tension I need to pay attention to? (Andy Stanley) Is there a moral or ethical dilemma (something inside, like a gut check) that is causing you to hesitate because it doesn’t seem like the right way to go? If so, the wrong choice may break through a guardrail that is found in Scripture to protect us from unnecessary pain and trouble. There is much guidance and protection found as we obey what we know to be God’s will in Scripture (Psalm 119:105; 119:168)
Many times, inner turmoil is connected to a decision we are facing. This can be a warning signal that we need to slow down and make sure that the choice we are about to make lines up with God’s will that He has already revealed in His Word. The right question to ask: Is there a tension I need to pay attention to? (Andy Stanley) Is there a moral or ethical dilemma (something inside, like a gut check) that is causing you to hesitate because it doesn’t seem like the right way to go? If so, the wrong choice may break through a guardrail that is found in Scripture to protect us from unnecessary pain and trouble. There is much guidance and protection found as we obey what we know to be God’s will in Scripture (Psalm 119:105; 119:168)
Every decision you make becomes a part of your story. Over and again, we are faced with a choice between something that looks like it will bring immediate satisfaction (or is expedient) or in taking the long road that we know to be God’s will trusting Him to work out His purpose for us. The right question to ask: What story do I want to tell? In the story of Joseph, we see a man who chose to do what is right before God in faith rather than do in the moment what would seemingly give Him a personal advantage (Genesis 39:8-10; 40-41). Faith is always a core part of making good decisions – He will never guide us in a way that eliminates our need to exercise faith (Hebrews 11:6)
Every decision you make becomes a part of your story. Over and again, we are faced with a choice between something that looks like it will bring immediate satisfaction (or is expedient) or in taking the long road that we know to be God’s will trusting Him to work out His purpose for us. The right question to ask: What story do I want to tell? In the story of Joseph, we see a man who chose to do what is right before God in faith rather than do in the moment what would seemingly give Him a personal advantage (Genesis 39:8-10; 40-41). Faith is always a core part of making good decisions – He will never guide us in a way that eliminates our need to exercise faith (Hebrews 11:6)
When we are faced with a decision that surprises us (positive or negative), a difficult but crucial thing is to discover what’s real underneath all of the swirling thoughts and emotions. The right question to ask is: Am I being completely honest with myself? We are constantly in danger of self-deception (Jeremiah 17:9) and must do whatever it takes to get the facts (Proverbs 18:13) and refuse to rely on our own insight (Proverbs 3:5-7).
When we are faced with a decision that surprises us (positive or negative), a difficult but crucial thing is to discover what’s real underneath all of the swirling thoughts and emotions. The right question to ask is: Am I being completely honest with myself? We are constantly in danger of self-deception (Jeremiah 17:9) and must do whatever it takes to get the facts (Proverbs 18:13) and refuse to rely on our own insight (Proverbs 3:5-7).
Jesus came to give His life as a ransom for many, this was His purpose for living (Mark 10:45). When He faced the reality of the price He would pay on the cross, He surrendered to God’s will. By His example, He showed us what to do when we face hard choices in life. He asked the right question and surrendered to God’s will. The right question to ask: How does this fit into my purpose for living? On this Easter Sunday, we will celebrate the resurrection. The resurrection is a historical event that can be investigated and proves that Jesus has the power to fulfill His purpose to ransom us. The resurrection also proves that He has the power to help us fulfill our purpose for living if we will surrender to God’s will.
Jesus came to give His life as a ransom for many, this was His purpose for living (Mark 10:45). When He faced the reality of the price He would pay on the cross, He surrendered to God’s will. By His example, He showed us what to do when we face hard choices in life. He asked the right question and surrendered to God’s will. The right question to ask: How does this fit into my purpose for living? On this Easter Sunday, we will celebrate the resurrection. The resurrection is a historical event that can be investigated and proves that Jesus has the power to fulfill His purpose to ransom us. The resurrection also proves that He has the power to help us fulfill our purpose for living if we will surrender to God’s will.
Genuine friendships and family relationships thrive when the truth is spoken in an atmosphere of love. This message will provide a practical guide for speaking the truth in an atmosphere of love.
Genuine friendships and family relationships thrive when the truth is spoken in an atmosphere of love. This message will provide a practical guide for speaking the truth in an atmosphere of love.
Love does not keep a record of wrongs but learns to let go of offenses and be patient with others. Learn how to choose genuine forgiveness.
Love does not keep a record of wrongs but learns to let go of offenses and be patient with others. Learn how to choose genuine forgiveness.
Big Idea: Love is not rude but chooses to show respect and honor to others. We will uncover the key signs that indicate you are showing respect for those around you.
Big Idea: Love is not rude but chooses to show respect and honor to others. We will uncover the key signs that indicate you are showing respect for those around you.
Humility is a state of mind that expresses itself in our words and deeds. Learn how this underrated quality is a key to loving others in practical ways.
Humility is a state of mind that expresses itself in our words and deeds. Learn how this underrated quality is a key to loving others in practical ways.
Envy is resenting God’s goodness to others and ignoring God’s goodness to me. In this message, we will look at how to get past resentment to love the people around you.
Envy is resenting God’s goodness to others and ignoring God’s goodness to me. In this message, we will look at how to get past resentment to love the people around you.
If I don’t live a life of love, nothing I say, know, believe, give or accomplish will matter. God wants us to live a life of love and will show us how to if we trust Him.
If I don’t live a life of love, nothing I say, know, believe, give or accomplish will matter. God wants us to live a life of love and will show us how to if we trust Him.
Faith is the gateway for God’s power to work through our lives – to accomplish His work in us and through us.
Faith is the gateway for God’s power to work through our lives – to accomplish His work in us and through us.
To follow Jesus means that we will serve our friends and family and invite them to follow Christ with us.
To follow Jesus means that we will serve our friends and family and invite them to follow Christ with us.
In Jesus’ Kingdom, those who serve are the greatest and those who take last place are first. To follow Jesus, I must humbly accept my role in the Kingdom and allow God to establish my rank as He sees fit.
In Jesus’ Kingdom, those who serve are the greatest and those who take last place are first. To follow Jesus, I must humbly accept my role in the Kingdom and allow God to establish my rank as He sees fit.
Jesus’ way to live is upside down from our values and approach. In faith, we must choose to keep “losing our lives” to find the life we really want. To follow Jesus I must embrace His values and ways.
Jesus’ way to live is upside down from our values and approach. In faith, we must choose to keep “losing our lives” to find the life we really want. To follow Jesus I must embrace His values and ways.
Following Jesus means that I choose over and over again to do the will of God over what I want to do (from the heart). This is the key to the best life filled with purpose, meaning and God’s blessing.
Following Jesus means that I choose over and over again to do the will of God over what I want to do (from the heart). This is the key to the best life filled with purpose, meaning and God’s blessing.
Following Jesus means that we follow the King. It's crucial to understand how you enter His Kingdom - we must seek to enter and when we do, the Father allows us to enter. We continue to follow in the same way we enter. (In this message, I will also talk about the significance of the Lord's Supper.)
Following Jesus means that we follow the King. It's crucial to understand how you enter His Kingdom - we must seek to enter and when we do, the Father allows us to enter. We continue to follow in the same way we enter. (In this message, I will also talk about the significance of the Lord's Supper.)
Jesus’ birth is proof that God keeps His promises that He gave us through the prophets. In this message we will trace the promises given and the fulfillment in Christ that reinforces our faith and worship during the Christmas season.
Jesus’ birth is proof that God keeps His promises that He gave us through the prophets. In this message we will trace the promises given and the fulfillment in Christ that reinforces our faith and worship during the Christmas season.
Jesus shows us the importance staying on the path His word shows us (Psalm 119:105) to know the truth that brings freedom. The word of God shows us the path to freedom from sin and the habits that enslave us. It is the key to overcoming temptation (Matthew 4:4-11) and gaining victory over the enemy (Ephesians 6:17).
Jesus shows us the importance staying on the path His word shows us (Psalm 119:105) to know the truth that brings freedom. The word of God shows us the path to freedom from sin and the habits that enslave us. It is the key to overcoming temptation (Matthew 4:4-11) and gaining victory over the enemy (Ephesians 6:17).
Church leaders are commanded to devote themselves to the word of God (all Christians should as well – Acts 2:42). Maturity in the church is measured by those who have “trained themselves by practice” to do life God’s way. We can trust men and women who obey God and His Word above their own opinions and desires.
Church leaders are commanded to devote themselves to the word of God (all Christians should as well – Acts 2:42). Maturity in the church is measured by those who have “trained themselves by practice” to do life God’s way. We can trust men and women who obey God and His Word above their own opinions and desires.
There are solid reasons to put our confidence in the integrity of the Bible. In this message, we will look at the reasons we can trust the Bible as is and the importance of letting the Bible judge us, not putting ourselves above it and twisting it in any way.
There are solid reasons to put our confidence in the integrity of the Bible. In this message, we will look at the reasons we can trust the Bible as is and the importance of letting the Bible judge us, not putting ourselves above it and twisting it in any way.
Jesus tells us that His words provide the only solid foundation for living. If we build our life on His words, we cannot be shaken by the storms of life and will experience the blessing of God.
Jesus tells us that His words provide the only solid foundation for living. If we build our life on His words, we cannot be shaken by the storms of life and will experience the blessing of God.
When trouble strikes, our attitude will determine whether it tears us down or builds us up. Learn the benefit of focusing your mind in the face of trouble by putting your hope in God. If we work through trouble with a joyful attitude it can be a real advantage for all involved.
When trouble strikes, our attitude will determine whether it tears us down or builds us up. Learn the benefit of focusing your mind in the face of trouble by putting your hope in God. If we work through trouble with a joyful attitude it can be a real advantage for all involved.
Taking a faith approach to our work is crucial to a productive life. Concerns and worry in the midst of stress can paralyze us if we don't take control of our thoughts. Without faith, we end up sputtering toward our goal.
Taking a faith approach to our work is crucial to a productive life. Concerns and worry in the midst of stress can paralyze us if we don't take control of our thoughts. Without faith, we end up sputtering toward our goal.
Our relationships have a major impact on our lives and the joy factor in them. Conflict happens, and the way I think as I work though it, brings joy or sadness.
Our relationships have a major impact on our lives and the joy factor in them. Conflict happens, and the way I think as I work though it, brings joy or sadness.
Many times, the thoughts of our self that we replay in our minds over and over take us down. An accurate view of God’s thoughts toward us and an accurate view of ourselves can lead to self-respect and joy.
Many times, the thoughts of our self that we replay in our minds over and over take us down. An accurate view of God’s thoughts toward us and an accurate view of ourselves can lead to self-respect and joy.
God makes it clear in His Word, the Bible, that we have control of our thoughts and emotions. Whatever we choose to dwell on in our heart determines the joy factor in our lives and the direction of our words and actions.
God makes it clear in His Word, the Bible, that we have control of our thoughts and emotions. Whatever we choose to dwell on in our heart determines the joy factor in our lives and the direction of our words and actions.
God makes it clear in His Word, the Bible, that we have control of our thoughts and emotions. Whatever we choose to dwell on in our heart determines the joy factor in our lives and the direction of our words and actions.
There are clear rewards and added value when we choose to be committed to living life in a church community. • We are consistently reminded of godly character and attitudes which have a high value (Colossians 3:16-17; 1 Timothy 4:7-8). • We find examples with good life outcomes to imitate (Examples of those commended in NT; Hebrews 13:7). • We multiply our effectiveness in key areas of life (family life; work; ministry, etc.) as we live life together (Ephesians 4:16)
There are clear rewards and added value when we choose to be committed to living life in a church community. • We are consistently reminded of godly character and attitudes which have a high value (Colossians 3:16-17; 1 Timothy 4:7-8). • We find examples with good life outcomes to imitate (Examples of those commended in NT; Hebrews 13:7). • We multiply our effectiveness in key areas of life (family life; work; ministry, etc.) as we live life together (Ephesians 4:16)
There are many so called reasons to isolate yourself from others due to pain, pride or a wrong perspective. In this message, you will learn to identify the barriers to fellowship and the key attitudes to choose to maintain it.
There are many so called reasons to isolate yourself from others due to pain, pride or a wrong perspective. In this message, you will learn to identify the barriers to fellowship and the key attitudes to choose to maintain it.
God made us with a deep need to be connected in fellowship with others. Understand how God made us for fellowship and how joys are multiplied when we walk through life together.
God made us with a deep need to be connected in fellowship with others. Understand how God made us for fellowship and how joys are multiplied when we walk through life together.
To get traction in anything, one must know their assignment--their goal. This message will look at how to make an impact by acting wisely and living exactly in all arenas of life.
To get traction in anything, one must know their assignment--their goal. This message will look at how to make an impact by acting wisely and living exactly in all arenas of life.
Life goes better when we team-up with others. This message will identify the keys to teamwork and how God works through His team to accomplish His purposes and will.
Life goes better when we team-up with others. This message will identify the keys to teamwork and how God works through His team to accomplish His purposes and will.
Find out what it takes to live "above the mooing herd" to a higher standard of life. This message will unfold how our identity in Christ means we live by a different standard than the cultural norms around us. This message will identify how when we live life God's way, our moral compass, reference group, and ultimately our vision for life is changed dramatically.
Find out what it takes to live "above the mooing herd" to a higher standard of life. This message will unfold how our identity in Christ means we live by a different standard than the cultural norms around us. This message will identify how when we live life God's way, our moral compass, reference group, and ultimately our vision for life is changed dramatically.
Discover the first steps in living past yourself in order to see the big picture of life. The focus of this message will look at how to focus first on God's Kingdom instead of trying to build our own--and how to persevere in this pursuit.
We all have to give our lives to something, but what do we do that really counts? We will be hearing from key men in the church as they share what their heart races for and key Scriptures that keep them on track.
We all have to give our lives to something, but what do we do that really counts? We will be hearing from key men in the church as they share what their heart races for and key Scriptures that keep them on track.
We all have to give our lives to something, but what do we do that really counts? Hear from key men in the church as they share what their heart races for and key Scriptures that keep them on track.
We all have to give our lives to something, but what do we do that really counts? Hear from key men in the church as they share what their heart races for and key Scriptures that keep them on track.
We find meaning in our lives by giving ourselves to God and others out of love that imitates Jesus' sacrifice for us.
We find meaning in our lives by giving ourselves to God and others out of love that imitates Jesus' sacrifice for us.
Jesus wants His followers to grow up in their thinking and behavior. This message will identify the barriers to spiritual maturity in our culture (wrong thinking and values) and show how to grow to maturity in Christ
Jesus wants His followers to grow up in their thinking and behavior. This message will identify the barriers to spiritual maturity in our culture (wrong thinking and values) and show how to grow to maturity in Christ
In this message compare and contrast the normal approach to self-esteem (which is to discover what people value, compare yourself and then try to gain honor amoung people by having what is valued) with the Bible's approach. In contrast, a believers' destiny grows out of God's rich love for us.
In this message compare and contrast the normal approach to self-esteem (which is to discover what people value, compare yourself and then try to gain honor amoung people by having what is valued) with the Bible's approach. In contrast, a believers' destiny grows out of God's rich love for us.
Our rebellious choices have brought trouble into the world, so life is full of difficulty. Courage, action and perseverance is required to overcome the chaos, but contrary to the movie, we can't do it all by our own resources, we need outside help.
Our rebellious choices have brought trouble into the world, so life is full of difficulty. Courage, action and perseverance is required to overcome the chaos, but contrary to the movie, we can't do it all by our own resources, we need outside help.
We should live today with the end in mind and order our priorities to reflect what will last forever. This message considers how to create a buck list that reflects God's values.
We should live today with the end in mind and order our priorities to reflect what will last forever. This message considers how to create a buck list that reflects God's values.
A father who sets a godly example and instills discipline in an atmosphere of encouragement sets their children up for success in the face of adversity.
A father who sets a godly example and instills discipline in an atmosphere of encouragement sets their children up for success in the face of adversity.
Jealousy ruins relationships and robs us of joy. Learn how God gives what we need to overcome it.
Jealousy ruins relationships and robs us of joy. Learn how God gives what we need to overcome it.
Themes in movies track the main issues we're dealing with in our culture. Good movies resonate with what we're going through in our world and in our lives. Real good movies resonate with us. God doesn't want his people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it - he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions.
Themes in movies track the main issues we're dealing with in our culture. Good movies resonate with what we're going through in our world and in our lives. Real good movies resonate with us. God doesn't want his people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it - he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions.
This message looks at two major categories of speech - arrogant words and angry words. This message will focus on where harmful words come from and how to delete foolish talk and replace with wise words/responses that bless others.
This message looks at two major categories of speech - arrogant words and angry words. This message will focus on where harmful words come from and how to delete foolish talk and replace with wise words/responses that bless others.
The tongue, when left unchecked, can do great harm or can bring amazing benefits when brought under control. We will spend some time looking at how our words shape our future and how they impact others. The key to this message focuses on how to harness the tongue and use its power rightly.
The tongue, when left unchecked, can do great harm or can bring amazing benefits when brought under control. We will spend some time looking at how our words shape our future and how they impact others. The key to this message focuses on how to harness the tongue and use its power rightly.
Effective parenting is built on the right foundation. The Bible teaches about family and makes a practical difference in parenting.
Effective parenting is built on the right foundation. The Bible teaches about family and makes a practical difference in parenting.
When we allow resentment and bitterness to remain, we are "separated for the life of God". Life in the Spirit (we connect to the life of God through Him), grows the good fruit in our character and relationships.
When we allow resentment and bitterness to remain, we are "separated for the life of God". Life in the Spirit (we connect to the life of God through Him), grows the good fruit in our character and relationships.
Living with bitterness and conflict carries with it a high cost for relationships and personal well being. Learn to monitor the flow of bitterness in your life to overcome it. Discover the indicators of total forgiveness.
Living with bitterness and conflict carries with it a high cost for relationships and personal well being. Learn to monitor the flow of bitterness in your life to overcome it. Discover the indicators of total forgiveness.
Peace emerges when we learn to dwell on the good and refuse to dwell on resentful and revengeful thoughts. By making a decision to forgive, we have the potential of moving forward to experience emotional forgiveness and restoration.
Peace emerges when we learn to dwell on the good and refuse to dwell on resentful and revengeful thoughts. By making a decision to forgive, we have the potential of moving forward to experience emotional forgiveness and restoration.
Through His teaching and example, Jesus has shown us the importance of forgiveness - both receiving it and relaying it to others. He closes the gap between God the Father and us - and shows us how to close the "injustice gap" between ourselves and others.
Through His teaching and example, Jesus has shown us the importance of forgiveness - both receiving it and relaying it to others. He closes the gap between God the Father and us - and shows us how to close the "injustice gap" between ourselves and others.
The Holy Spirit is the presence of God brought to bear on an individual's life. He provides the POWER to understand God's will and the POWER to act on it. His power flows through us as we walk in step with Him in daily life.
The Holy Spirit is the presence of God brought to bear on an individual's life. He provides the POWER to understand God's will and the POWER to act on it. His power flows through us as we walk in step with Him in daily life.
The Son is the member of the Trinity who carries out the plan of the Father. His role was to carry out the rescue mission to redeem fallen humanity, and we find out that He never stops working for us (He saved us and defends us when we sin in the present.) He is both the Pioneer of our faith and the Defender of it.
The Son is the member of the Trinity who carries out the plan of the Father. His role was to carry out the rescue mission to redeem fallen humanity, and we find out that He never stops working for us (He saved us and defends us when we sin in the present.) He is both the Pioneer of our faith and the Defender of it.
God the Father has a plan and He is watching over the details of our lives, weaving them into His plan. Though we often erect idols in our lives (relationships, possessions, position)...the Father watches for true worship. The Father is close but He will not force His will on us, but instead he creates choices that provide opportunities to respond.
God the Father has a plan and He is watching over the details of our lives, weaving them into His plan. Though we often erect idols in our lives (relationships, possessions, position)...the Father watches for true worship. The Father is close but He will not force His will on us, but instead he creates choices that provide opportunities to respond.
There is a generosity ladder that God calls us to climb. For some people just beginning to give is the first step on the ladder, for others it's time to cross the tithing threshold unlocking God's blessing, for another group God desires that they excel in grace level giving (beyond the tithe).
There is a generosity ladder that God calls us to climb. For some people just beginning to give is the first step on the ladder, for others it's time to cross the tithing threshold unlocking God's blessing, for another group God desires that they excel in grace level giving (beyond the tithe).
Why should I save? How can I save? These questions must be answered to actually save money. As with giving, saving requires a plan.
Why should I save? How can I save? These questions must be answered to actually save money. As with giving, saving requires a plan.
Debt is such a common means of spending these days. God has a few warnings for us as we consider debt and some action steps for breaking free. Dealing with debt can never be dealt with passively.
Debt is such a common means of spending these days. God has a few warnings for us as we consider debt and some action steps for breaking free. Dealing with debt can never be dealt with passively.
God has us right where he wants us to be, he's accomplishing His purposes in our life and current financial circumstances. Learning contentment is found through Christ who gives us the strength to be satisfied where we are, instead of constantly comparing ourselves to where others are.
God has us right where he wants us to be, he's accomplishing His purposes in our life and current financial circumstances. Learning contentment is found through Christ who gives us the strength to be satisfied where we are, instead of constantly comparing ourselves to where others are.
The goal of this message is to establish some biblical framework related to the way we view ourselves and our position. It is crucial to understand our role (stewards/managers) and the priorities to deal with the stress of money and possessions. We can't create a workable plan until we deal with these foundations.
The goal of this message is to establish some biblical framework related to the way we view ourselves and our position. It is crucial to understand our role (stewards/managers) and the priorities to deal with the stress of money and possessions. We can't create a workable plan until we deal with these foundations.
God continually stretches us to include more people in our lives. We have a unique opportunity to serve others and use the energy and purpose God has given us. This message will look at how ministry is the heart of the Christian life, and how it is displayed in our relationship with God, fellow Christians and non-Christians.
God continually stretches us to include more people in our lives. We have a unique opportunity to serve others and use the energy and purpose God has given us. This message will look at how ministry is the heart of the Christian life, and how it is displayed in our relationship with God, fellow Christians and non-Christians.
All of us want to get on track with our money. How should we deal with the frustration of money being a constant stress and strain on us? this message will look at biblical stewardship and having the right view on money and materialism.
All of us want to get on track with our money. How should we deal with the frustration of money being a constant stress and strain on us? this message will look at biblical stewardship and having the right view on money and materialism.
No matter what we focus on during the year, if it doesn't include a group of people who will sharpen and challenge us - we will fall into discouragement and disillusionment. This message will look at the importance of being connected to a group of people who know the real you.
No matter what we focus on during the year, if it doesn't include a group of people who will sharpen and challenge us - we will fall into discouragement and disillusionment. This message will look at the importance of being connected to a group of people who know the real you.
The New Year is an opportunity to ReNew our commitment to Jesus, other followers of Christ and the mission He has given us.
The New Year is an opportunity to ReNew our commitment to Jesus, other followers of Christ and the mission He has given us.
The New Year is a time to concentrate on what really matters--Godliness. Beginning with our relationship to God--as we focus on Him and realign with His purposes--our goals for the new year come into focus. Ultimately, what matters to God, should matter to us. This takes discipline and asking God to move us back into the right alignment with His view on things.
The New Year is a time to concentrate on what really matters--Godliness. Beginning with our relationship to God--as we focus on Him and realign with His purposes--our goals for the new year come into focus. Ultimately, what matters to God, should matter to us. This takes discipline and asking God to move us back into the right alignment with His view on things.
God uses a Star to lead the magi to Jesus...the King of all Kings. They worship him...they present gifts to Him...the baby King. Jesus connects us to the Father, lighting the way to God. Staying connected to Jesus gives us the light we need to live for His glory and purpose.
God uses a Star to lead the magi to Jesus...the King of all Kings. They worship him...they present gifts to Him...the baby King. Jesus connects us to the Father, lighting the way to God. Staying connected to Jesus gives us the light we need to live for His glory and purpose.
At the end of human history, Christ will return and be revealed to everyone in all his majesty. He will reign as king The earth and the sky (sun, moon and stars) as we know it will be not more. Everyone will give an account to Christ the judge. The people of God whose names were found in the book of life will dwell with God forever in New Jerusalem, so there will no longer be a need for the sun, moon or stars. That great day ought to shape the way we live our lives every day.
At the end of human history, Christ will return and be revealed to everyone in all his majesty. He will reign as king The earth and the sky (sun, moon and stars) as we know it will be not more. Everyone will give an account to Christ the judge. The people of God whose names were found in the book of life will dwell with God forever in New Jerusalem, so there will no longer be a need for the sun, moon or stars. That great day ought to shape the way we live our lives every day.
Jesus wants His followers to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14-16). As we become more like Christ, we give light to others - we are a reflection of Him. We are not the light, but we reflect Him and point others to Him through the way we live. When we exhibit His character and attitudes in everyday life we "shine like stars in the universe" that helps others see the truth of the :word of Life" we share.
Jesus wants His followers to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14-16). As we become more like Christ, we give light to others - we are a reflection of Him. We are not the light, but we reflect Him and point others to Him through the way we live. When we exhibit His character and attitudes in everyday life we "shine like stars in the universe" that helps others see the truth of the :word of Life" we share.
In Genesis 15:1-6, Abraham is losing sight of God's promise to use him to bless all the peoples of the earth. God uses the stars as a reminder to Abraham of his promise in Genesis 12:1-3. The stars can also remind us that we are a part of something much bigger than ourselves. With God's help, we have an opportunity to make an impact well beyond our own city, lives and generation. Abraham believed God and his faith was credited as righteousness-this means when we put our faith in God and do what He asks today, we can trust Him to multiply our efforts to impact the world in the way He has planned.
In Genesis 15:1-6, Abraham is losing sight of God's promise to use him to bless all the peoples of the earth. God uses the stars as a reminder to Abraham of his promise in Genesis 12:1-3. The stars can also remind us that we are a part of something much bigger than ourselves. With God's help, we have an opportunity to make an impact well beyond our own city, lives and generation. Abraham believed God and his faith was credited as righteousness-this means when we put our faith in God and do what He asks today, we can trust Him to multiply our efforts to impact the world in the way He has planned.
God made the stars to rule and light up the expanse (separting light and darkness) in the night sky. They serve as a constant reminder of God's great power and wisdom, displaying his creative handiwork. Rather than drawing worship to themselves or other parts of creation, stars and other created things are intended to turn our heads toward his eternal plans, connecting us to His Word and His ways. God's creation also (stars and sun) reminds us of God's love and faithfulness; He can be counted on. When we're in need of direction, look up and be reminded of God's power and presence.
God made the stars to rule and light up the expanse (separting light and darkness) in the night sky. They serve as a constant reminder of God's great power and wisdom, displaying his creative handiwork. Rather than drawing worship to themselves or other parts of creation, stars and other created things are intended to turn our heads toward his eternal plans, connecting us to His Word and His ways. God's creation also (stars and sun) reminds us of God's love and faithfulness; He can be counted on. When we're in need of direction, look up and be reminded of God's power and presence.
Learning to listen is the heart of "walking in the Spirit". The Spirit wants to lead us but lets us decide whether or not we will follow each moment. We must choose this walk in the Spirit over the flesh (which has already been crucified with Christ). We keep in step with the Spirit when we say no to the flesh and yes to the Spirit over and over again.
Learning to listen is the heart of "walking in the Spirit". The Spirit wants to lead us but lets us decide whether or not we will follow each moment. We must choose this walk in the Spirit over the flesh (which has already been crucified with Christ). We keep in step with the Spirit when we say no to the flesh and yes to the Spirit over and over again.
What "world-rocking" whisper is God ready to place in your ears? In this message, we will be challenged to shift our focus from my needs, my wants, the desires of my heart to that which weighs on the heart of God. Through powerful biblical references and modern-day illustrations alike, this message reinforces three truths of those who spend themselves on others' behalf: they listen with wide-open ears, they give with wide-open hands and they live with wide-open hearts.
What "world-rocking" whisper is God ready to place in your ears? In this message, we will be challenged to shift our focus from my needs, my wants, the desires of my heart to that which weighs on the heart of God. Through powerful biblical references and modern-day illustrations alike, this message reinforces three truths of those who spend themselves on others' behalf: they listen with wide-open ears, they give with wide-open hands and they live with wide-open hearts.
How would your life shift if you practiced God's presence with the same discipline and passion as that which you practice your other pursuits? This message will encourage us to consider practicing the presence of God as a normal course of action. By corralling our thoughts--focusing on that which is true, noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable--by communicating with God frequently and personally, and by conforming our lives to his Word, we become more effectual in our spiritual life that we ever dreamed possible.
How would your life shift if you practiced God's presence with the same discipline and passion as that which you practice your other pursuits? This message will encourage us to consider practicing the presence of God as a normal course of action. By corralling our thoughts--focusing on that which is true, noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable--by communicating with God frequently and personally, and by conforming our lives to his Word, we become more effectual in our spiritual life that we ever dreamed possible.
What would your daily life look like if each step was directed by God? In this message, three types of whispers are explored--whispers of action, whispers of admonition, and whispers of assurance.
What would your daily life look like if each step was directed by God? In this message, three types of whispers are explored--whispers of action, whispers of admonition, and whispers of assurance.
What if it really is possible to hear from heaven--personally, consistently, intimately--as you navigate life here on earth? In this message, we will discover five clear filters to use in testing every whisper of guidance that we hear. There are four important questions to ask that correspond to each filter: "God, is this prompting really from you?" "Does it align with Scripture?" "Is it wise?" "Is it in tune with my character?" and "What do those I most trust think of the whisper I have received?" before obeying the "divine" input they believe they have heard.
What if it really is possible to hear from heaven--personally, consistently, intimately--as you navigate life here on earth? In this message, we will discover five clear filters to use in testing every whisper of guidance that we hear. There are four important questions to ask that correspond to each filter: "God, is this prompting really from you?" "Does it align with Scripture?" "Is it wise?" "Is it in tune with my character?" and "What do those I most trust think of the whisper I have received?" before obeying the "divine" input they believe they have heard.
God is speaking to us every day and He wants us to listen. Then He wants us to trust what He says and follow. If we listen, we can hear His Spirit speaking to us in the middle of everyday life situations and experiences. When we slow down, quiet ourselves and listen, God gives clear direction and encouragement.
God is speaking to us every day and He wants us to listen. Then He wants us to trust what He says and follow. If we listen, we can hear His Spirit speaking to us in the middle of everyday life situations and experiences. When we slow down, quiet ourselves and listen, God gives clear direction and encouragement.
God has given us a multi-generational plan for discipleship. The role a parent plays in the life of their children is of utmost importance - they model and explain the ways of God to their children as they live them out daily in the home (which is where the responsiblity for discipleship lays - in the home not the church).
God has given us a multi-generational plan for discipleship. The role a parent plays in the life of their children is of utmost importance - they model and explain the ways of God to their children as they live them out daily in the home (which is where the responsiblity for discipleship lays - in the home not the church).
God has given a multi-generational promise to prosper His peole who follow His ways. We may or may not see the promise fulfilled in our lifetime - a parent's role is to plow the ground for the next generation.
God has given a multi-generational promise to prosper His peole who follow His ways. We may or may not see the promise fulfilled in our lifetime - a parent's role is to plow the ground for the next generation.
Growth and meaning flow out of a commitment to serve God's purpose through the church. He wants us to make the effort to do our part in church life and invite friends and family to get involved.
Growth and meaning flow out of a commitment to serve God's purpose through the church. He wants us to make the effort to do our part in church life and invite friends and family to get involved.
God graciously provides all that we ned and more. He wants us to serve by giving freely to His purpose and the needs of people.
God graciously provides all that we ned and more. He wants us to serve by giving freely to His purpose and the needs of people.
God has placed me in a "household" that includes my immmediate family and circle of influence. He wants me to serve those in my household by meeting others practical needs and helping them to know Christ better.
God has placed me in a "household" that includes my immmediate family and circle of influence. He wants me to serve those in my household by meeting others practical needs and helping them to know Christ better.
The "most valuable" in God's Kingdom are those who serve. Jesus' followers know their place in the arenas of life (their role in the familiy, at work, in church, among friends, etc.) and take their place (choose humility in the way they accomplish their role).
The "most valuable" in God's Kingdom are those who serve. Jesus' followers know their place in the arenas of life (their role in the familiy, at work, in church, among friends, etc.) and take their place (choose humility in the way they accomplish their role).
When you decide to follow Christ, you become a part of a cosmic effort to change the world. God works through His people, the church, to change the world and bring restoration
When you decide to follow Christ, you become a part of a cosmic effort to change the world. God works through His people, the church, to change the world and bring restoration
We will take a look at God's design for sex against the backdrop of our culture's view that sex is purely physical. One clue to the original design for sex is the deep pain that results from sexual sin.
We will take a look at God's design for sex against the backdrop of our culture's view that sex is purely physical. One clue to the original design for sex is the deep pain that results from sexual sin.
Most of us realize that love is a core purpose of our lives. How do I find the love that will give me what I need to love others with an unfailing love? It's found in God alone
Most of us realize that love is a core purpose of our lives. How do I find the love that will give me what I need to love others with an unfailing love? It's found in God alone
Jesus set the example by showing us how to overcome evil with good. Jesus' followers do the same by learning to overcome evil around them by doing good and showing kindness.
Jesus set the example by showing us how to overcome evil with good. Jesus' followers do the same by learning to overcome evil around them by doing good and showing kindness.
Fear can paralyze. When things occur in our lives that shake our foundation, how can we respond? Chooing faith allows us to keep moving in life and make the most of every day.
Fear can paralyze. When things occur in our lives that shake our foundation, how can we respond? Chooing faith allows us to keep moving in life and make the most of every day.
God doesn't want his people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it--he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions. In the message, learn how to insulate yourself with the word of God.
God doesn't want his people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it--he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions. In the message, learn how to insulate yourself with the word of God.
Direction determines destination. But what is it that influences direction? What is it that starts us on our course, either for the places we want to go or the destinations we'd rather avoid? If we could determine what this is, then we could change our course upstream and save ourselves a lot of time, money, and heartache
Direction determines destination. But what is it that influences direction? What is it that starts us on our course, either for the places we want to go or the destinations we'd rather avoid? If we could determine what this is, then we could change our course upstream and save ourselves a lot of time, money, and heartache
Think about the last time you were traveling and got lost. You had your destination in mind. You had every intention of getting there. But you took the wrong path, and you didn't end up where you wanted to be. A disconnect often occurs between the path you choose and where you want to end up. This is the principle of the path and we'll discover how it impacts every area of your life.
Think about the last time you were traveling and got lost. You had your destination in mind. You had every intention of getting there. But you took the wrong path, and you didn't end up where you wanted to be. A disconnect often occurs between the path you choose and where you want to end up. This is the principle of the path and we'll discover how it impacts every area of your life.
Neil Walker discusses the application of Jonah 2:8, "Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs" highlighting the importance of God's grace in our lives.
Neil Walker discusses the application of Jonah 2:8, "Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs" highlighting the importance of God's grace in our lives.
You can make consistent progress in your walk with God if you are willing to meditate on and apply God's Word.
You can make consistent progress in your walk with God if you are willing to meditate on and apply God's Word.
The key to turning a fall into an opportunity for growth is the word: rejoice. Will you see the problem as an opportunity or allow it to take you into a downward spiral? Deciding to rejoice is the first step that allows the pain to be useful to God. 6th of 6 RE words: REJOICE
The key to turning a fall into an opportunity for growth is the word: rejoice. Will you see the problem as an opportunity or allow it to take you into a downward spiral? Deciding to rejoice is the first step that allows the pain to be useful to God. 6th of 6 RE words: REJOICE
When we fall, we pull others down with us. No one falls alone and no one can bounce back alone. Every time we do wrong to someone a voice cries out for justice (Genesis 4:10; James 5:4). Jesus tells us to take the initiative to make things right with those we have wronged and to do so quickly. 5th of 6 Re words: RECONCILE
When we fall, we pull others down with us. No one falls alone and no one can bounce back alone. Every time we do wrong to someone a voice cries out for justice (Genesis 4:10; James 5:4). Jesus tells us to take the initiative to make things right with those we have wronged and to do so quickly. 5th of 6 Re words: RECONCILE
The past affects all of us. Jesus is the only one who can pay for the past and free us to move into the future without the weight of our sin. He can help us overcome the empty patterns of life to establish good ones. Fourth of 6 Re words: REDEEM
The past affects all of us. Jesus is the only one who can pay for the past and free us to move into the future without the weight of our sin. He can help us overcome the empty patterns of life to establish good ones. Fourth of 6 Re words: REDEEM
Only Jesus can help us deal with tragedy or personal failure and to bounce back higher than we were when we fell. The Holy Spirit is the "secret ingredient" in our life that gives us the ability to come back. The Holy Spirit gives us the willpower to change.
Only Jesus can help us deal with tragedy or personal failure and to bounce back higher than we were when we fell. The Holy Spirit is the "secret ingredient" in our life that gives us the ability to come back. The Holy Spirit gives us the willpower to change.
God want to use the pain in our life to be the beginning of a turn around. The key to the "turn around" is to repent-to admit the truth about ourselves and focus on what God wants to do through the pain. 2nd of 6 RE words=REPENT
God want to use the pain in our life to be the beginning of a turn around. The key to the "turn around" is to repent-to admit the truth about ourselves and focus on what God wants to do through the pain. 2nd of 6 RE words=REPENT
Jesus came to give us the power to bounce back from anything-His resurrection proves it. If He can raise the dead, we have every reason to look to the future with hope. 1st of 6 Re words = Resurrection
Jesus came to give us the power to bounce back from anything-His resurrection proves it. If He can raise the dead, we have every reason to look to the future with hope. 1st of 6 Re words = Resurrection
God's rule extends to the smallest details. The story of Moses leaves us wondering "what if?" But God shows His amazing ability to weave the seemingly endless contingencies of our life to accomplish His purpose for us.
In the middle of difficult circumstances, never jump to the conclusion that God is against you because of what you are facing. He is not against you but He is for you. Wait until the "end of the story" to find out what He is doing.
In the middle of difficult circumstances, never jump to the conclusion that God is against you because of what you are facing. He is not against you but He is for you. Wait until the "end of the story" to find out what He is doing.
To acknowledge God's sovereignty is to accept what He allows in our lives-both good and bad. We let God be God and refuse to demand our way. If we really trust God, we are able to accept the pain, sorrow and affliction in our lives and continue to worship Him as we walk through it.
To acknowledge God's sovereignty is to accept what He allows in our lives-both good and bad. We let God be God and refuse to demand our way. If we really trust God, we are able to accept the pain, sorrow and affliction in our lives and continue to worship Him as we walk through it.
God is watching over us from a unique vantage point: He sees the end from the beginning. We can trust Him to provide His people what's needed to live life and do His will. Faith is realizing that our ultimate well-being is in God's hands.
God is watching over us from a unique vantage point: He sees the end from the beginning. We can trust Him to provide His people what's needed to live life and do His will. Faith is realizing that our ultimate well-being is in God's hands.
God has given one motive to guide every action - love. When love is our motive people are helped and God is pleased.
God has given one motive to guide every action - love. When love is our motive people are helped and God is pleased.
Even the ordinary details and routines of life are meaningful when I understand how all of life fits into God's plan.
Even the ordinary details and routines of life are meaningful when I understand how all of life fits into God's plan.
We were made to bring glory to our Maker, and when we do it resonates deep within our soul - our lives make sense and purpose.
We were made to bring glory to our Maker, and when we do it resonates deep within our soul - our lives make sense and purpose.
The futility of this life points to something more. With God's help, we can live with purpose beyond ourselves and our lifetime.
The futility of this life points to something more. With God's help, we can live with purpose beyond ourselves and our lifetime.
The best investment for my time is to use it to accomplish God's will. His will is that I use my time building His kingdom and my household in a way that flows out of my love for Him and the people in my life.
The best investment for my time is to use it to accomplish God's will. His will is that I use my time building His kingdom and my household in a way that flows out of my love for Him and the people in my life.
There is a cumulative value to investing small amounts of time in people and important objectives. In the same way, there is little or no value to the random things that we choose over the most important.
There is a cumulative value to investing small amounts of time in people and important objectives. In the same way, there is little or no value to the random things that we choose over the most important.
Choosing the right priority and keeping things in the right order help us to make progress toward crucial goals and get more done day after day.
Choosing the right priority and keeping things in the right order help us to make progress toward crucial goals and get more done day after day.
Most of us ask, "What time is it?" several times a day. The more important question is, "What am I doing with my time?" In this message you will see the bigger context for life that God gives us and the implications for investing the limited resource of time.
Most of us ask, "What time is it?" several times a day. The more important question is, "What am I doing with my time?" In this message you will see the bigger context for life that God gives us and the implications for investing the limited resource of time.
It takes many people to accomplish the mission God has given CIV. Find out why the church exists and how being committed to the church is beneficial.
It takes many people to accomplish the mission God has given CIV. Find out why the church exists and how being committed to the church is beneficial.
Day by day, those who give their lives away find the lives God wants them to have. In this message, we will learn the eternal importance of losing your life in following Christ and using all that you have to fulfill His purpose in the world.
Day by day, those who give their lives away find the lives God wants them to have. In this message, we will learn the eternal importance of losing your life in following Christ and using all that you have to fulfill His purpose in the world.
It's normal to boast about our strengths and downplay our weaknesses. God's pattern is to display His power through our weaknesses to minister to others and accomplish His work in the world. It is crucial to learn to accept our weaknesses and rely on God's power to be strong when we are weak.
It's normal to boast about our strengths and downplay our weaknesses. God's pattern is to display His power through our weaknesses to minister to others and accomplish His work in the world. It is crucial to learn to accept our weaknesses and rely on God's power to be strong when we are weak.
God has a track record of using the least in the world to accomplish His purpose. If we are caught up in the culture of the world at large, many times we miss what God is doing and what He wants to do right now. In this message we will look at what's important to God and how to focus on His priorities in the upcoming year.
God has a track record of using the least in the world to accomplish His purpose. If we are caught up in the culture of the world at large, many times we miss what God is doing and what He wants to do right now. In this message we will look at what's important to God and how to focus on His priorities in the upcoming year.
Jesus is the Prince of Peace, which means prosperity. There is no end to the increase of His government and peace. Under His leadership, life is good and gets better and better.
Jesus is the Prince of Peace, which means prosperity. There is no end to the increase of His government and peace. Under His leadership, life is good and gets better and better.
This King opens up the realm of eternity to us. He unlocks the resources of heaven to help us live for God's purpose in the here and now.
This King opens up the realm of eternity to us. He unlocks the resources of heaven to help us live for God's purpose in the here and now.
This King has the power to defeat his enemies and destroy ours. If we turn to Him, he provides the power to win the battles and give victory when we are weak.
This King has the power to defeat his enemies and destroy ours. If we turn to Him, he provides the power to win the battles and give victory when we are weak.
The King of this kingdom is a counselor who is ready to guide. He is right there with us in every moment and is able to sympathize and help us with anything we need.
The King of this kingdom is a counselor who is ready to guide. He is right there with us in every moment and is able to sympathize and help us with anything we need.
The King is "wonderful" - unlike anyone else, miraculous, extraordinary and amazing. He is worthy of our worship and awe. In Christ, God has become man, and there has never been or ever will be anyone like Him as man, He understands what we are going through and has stepped out to meet us where we are. As God, He works everything together for good for those who love Him.
The King is "wonderful" - unlike anyone else, miraculous, extraordinary and amazing. He is worthy of our worship and awe. In Christ, God has become man, and there has never been or ever will be anyone like Him as man, He understands what we are going through and has stepped out to meet us where we are. As God, He works everything together for good for those who love Him.
God's Word provided the foundations for making the best decision. God is faithful to guide us as we turn to Him and follow the counsel and direction He gives through His Word. The foundations for solid decisions is found in faith, obedience, and integrity.
God's Word provided the foundations for making the best decision. God is faithful to guide us as we turn to Him and follow the counsel and direction He gives through His Word. The foundations for solid decisions is found in faith, obedience, and integrity.
Listening to God's Word and doing it leads us to the best relationships. He speaks through His word to show us how to rightly relate to Him and others. God gives the perspective we need through the Word to unravel and deal with conflict and also to establish boundaries that allow for healthy relationships.
Listening to God's Word and doing it leads us to the best relationships. He speaks through His word to show us how to rightly relate to Him and others. God gives the perspective we need through the Word to unravel and deal with conflict and also to establish boundaries that allow for healthy relationships.
There is much reward in keeping God's Word. One of the benefits is that the Bible helps to minimize the trouble we have to deal with and helps us avoid creating more trouble by caving to temptation.
There is much reward in keeping God's Word. One of the benefits is that the Bible helps to minimize the trouble we have to deal with and helps us avoid creating more trouble by caving to temptation.
God promises a future of blessing to those who choose to follow Him. We must claim the promised future by knowing God's word and being careful to obey it. Claiming the promises of God requires faith and patient endurance to continue living out what God shows us in His Word (God promised the good land to Israel but they had to move out to claim it through obedience).
God promises a future of blessing to those who choose to follow Him. We must claim the promised future by knowing God's word and being careful to obey it. Claiming the promises of God requires faith and patient endurance to continue living out what God shows us in His Word (God promised the good land to Israel but they had to move out to claim it through obedience).
Listening to God's Word protects us from deception as it uncovers reality about ourselves and how life works from God's perspective. We gain freedom by doing the Word - freedom to be and do what we should. We are set free from destructive habits, lies, and a false sense of reality.
Listening to God's Word protects us from deception as it uncovers reality about ourselves and how life works from God's perspective. We gain freedom by doing the Word - freedom to be and do what we should. We are set free from destructive habits, lies, and a false sense of reality.
Resolving difficulties in relationships adds strength and allows friendships and family life to get out of the danger zone and thrive. Experiencing grace in our friendships and family life is a boost beyond things that destroy relationships and help us to thrive.
Resolving difficulties in relationships adds strength and allows friendships and family life to get out of the danger zone and thrive. Experiencing grace in our friendships and family life is a boost beyond things that destroy relationships and help us to thrive.
True encouragement and acceptance make it possible to develop genuine relationships that grow stronger over time. When we talk about our blindside we get beyond survival mode.
True encouragement and acceptance make it possible to develop genuine relationships that grow stronger over time. When we talk about our blindside we get beyond survival mode.
Authenticity is a crucial ingredient of meaningful friendships and family life. Consideration builds trust and paves the way for honesty that allows us to really help one another.
Authenticity is a crucial ingredient of meaningful friendships and family life. Consideration builds trust and paves the way for honesty that allows us to really help one another.
Friendships and families thrive over the long haul when they are centered on love that turns into showing consideration for the goals and interests of the other. If we focus on our own needs, the friendship stays in survival mode. Learn God's way out of survival mode.
Friendships and families thrive over the long haul when they are centered on love that turns into showing consideration for the goals and interests of the other. If we focus on our own needs, the friendship stays in survival mode. Learn God's way out of survival mode.
We counter all the schemes of the Devil by claiming the truths found in Scripture. When we "swing the sword" we counter the temporary lies and attacks of the enemy with the eternal promises of God. In the same way, we pray we invite God into the forefront of whatever situation we're facing. Satan wants us to rely on our own resources and strength to fight, but when we voice scriptures and pray, we tap into the power of God.
We counter all the schemes of the Devil by claiming the truths found in Scripture. When we "swing the sword" we counter the temporary lies and attacks of the enemy with the eternal promises of God. In the same way, we pray we invite God into the forefront of whatever situation we're facing. Satan wants us to rely on our own resources and strength to fight, but when we voice scriptures and pray, we tap into the power of God.
The Devil wants us to lose heart and give up when life gets tough. If we quit, we are not accomplishing the purposes God gave us. However, God's salvation to us is our only hope. It reminds us of our spiritual identity and that we are followers of Christ. As Christ followers, we learn from Jesus example of endurance and perseverance, and we do not have to quit - no matter what we face. God's salvation saves us from giving up!
The Devil wants us to lose heart and give up when life gets tough. If we quit, we are not accomplishing the purposes God gave us. However, God's salvation to us is our only hope. It reminds us of our spiritual identity and that we are followers of Christ. As Christ followers, we learn from Jesus example of endurance and perseverance, and we do not have to quit - no matter what we face. God's salvation saves us from giving up!
Satan launches "flaming arrows" at us so we will question God's presence and His goodness to us. Many times these arrows come during times of trouble. Satan wants to discourage us, while God wants to use the trouble for our good. God has given us the shield of Faith so we may remember God's track record with us and that He will not rip us off.
Satan launches "flaming arrows" at us so we will question God's presence and His goodness to us. Many times these arrows come during times of trouble. Satan wants to discourage us, while God wants to use the trouble for our good. God has given us the shield of Faith so we may remember God's track record with us and that He will not rip us off.
Satan wants to do all within his power to stir up conflict between people and especially God's people within the church. If we're bickering and divided, we cannot use our energy to fight the real adversary - Satan himself. However, God gives us the Gospel of Peace so we may explain God's forgiveness to others (after we've experienced it ourselves) and extend His mercy to others as we work toward unity.
Satan wants to do all within his power to stir up conflict between people and especially God's people within the church. If we're bickering and divided, we cannot use our energy to fight the real adversary - Satan himself. However, God gives us the Gospel of Peace so we may explain God's forgiveness to others (after we've experienced it ourselves) and extend His mercy to others as we work toward unity.
Satan wants to continually accuse us and remind us of all the sin we've done in our life. God has given us the righteousness of Christ to battle these accusations. Christ paid the price for our sins and we fight the battle against Satan by putting on the breastplate of Christ's righteousness as we admit our sin and accept Christ's forgiveness through faith.
Satan wants to continually accuse us and remind us of all the sin we've done in our life. God has given us the righteousness of Christ to battle these accusations. Christ paid the price for our sins and we fight the battle against Satan by putting on the breastplate of Christ's righteousness as we admit our sin and accept Christ's forgiveness through faith.
The enemy, the Devil, and the demonic, have waged war against humanity. The Devil wants to destroy us and will use any means and schemes necessary to take us out. In this message we will focus on one of Satan's main attacks against us - confusion. He applies this strategy by telling lies to our mind and emotions. Discover how to use God's word to battle back against the enemy's lies.
The enemy, the Devil, and the demonic, have waged war against humanity. The Devil wants to destroy us and will use any means and schemes necessary to take us out. In this message we will focus on one of Satan's main attacks against us - confusion. He applies this strategy by telling lies to our mind and emotions. Discover how to use God's word to battle back against the enemy's lies.
God is working in the lives of others as we set out to find those who are lost to Him. I can be confident that God is doing the work that only He can do. He makes Himself known; draws people to Himself and convicts people of sin.
God is working in the lives of others as we set out to find those who are lost to Him. I can be confident that God is doing the work that only He can do. He makes Himself known; draws people to Himself and convicts people of sin.
Evangelism was never intended to be a solo mission. The church was meant to partner with us in the process. So it's important to create opportunities for our friends to meet others in the church. When our friends and family see the "witness of the body," the way we love one another and live, our effectiveness is multiplied.
Evangelism was never intended to be a solo mission. The church was meant to partner with us in the process. So it's important to create opportunities for our friends to meet others in the church. When our friends and family see the "witness of the body," the way we love one another and live, our effectiveness is multiplied.
Sharing the news means that we must work through our fears. Paul asked for prayer that he would proclaim the truth fearlessly. How to get past your fears: know Jesus by spending time with Him and His people AND let your love for others drive out the fear.
Sharing the news means that we must work through our fears. Paul asked for prayer that he would proclaim the truth fearlessly. How to get past your fears: know Jesus by spending time with Him and His people AND let your love for others drive out the fear.
A Jesus follower's purpose is to share the good news about Christ with those around us.
A Jesus follower's purpose is to share the good news about Christ with those around us.
Our role as Jesus' followers is to be salt and light to those around us. He wants us to be real and show others how Jesus changes lives.
Our role as Jesus' followers is to be salt and light to those around us. He wants us to be real and show others how Jesus changes lives.
Jesus is the life. He is the One who made us and the ultimate source of life. He gives springs of living water to those who trust Him and those who stay connected to Him flourish.
Jesus is the life. He is the One who made us and the ultimate source of life. He gives springs of living water to those who trust Him and those who stay connected to Him flourish.
Jesus is the truth. Jesus' life and teaching were based on reality - the way things are not the way we want them to be. He teaches the way to salvation and the best way to live in the real world. When we arrive at key intersections in life we have a choice to go with what Jesus says is real or not - for salvation and beyond.
Jesus is the truth. Jesus' life and teaching were based on reality - the way things are not the way we want them to be. He teaches the way to salvation and the best way to live in the real world. When we arrive at key intersections in life we have a choice to go with what Jesus says is real or not - for salvation and beyond.
Jesus is the way. He left us with a map to the best kind of life and promises to be our guide. Jesus' way is characterized by faith, sacrificial love and consideration, a focus on giving rather than receiving, and the belief that life is found when you lose it.
Jesus is the way. He left us with a map to the best kind of life and promises to be our guide. Jesus' way is characterized by faith, sacrificial love and consideration, a focus on giving rather than receiving, and the belief that life is found when you lose it.
Jesus' statement, "No one comes to the Father except through me" leaves no room for neutrality - He claims to be the only way to God. How can we verify His claim an dnot conclude these are the words of a deranged egomaniac? We know He is the only way by looking at His character, power, the resurrection, and our own experience.
Jesus' statement, "No one comes to the Father except through me" leaves no room for neutrality - He claims to be the only way to God. How can we verify His claim an dnot conclude these are the words of a deranged egomaniac? We know He is the only way by looking at His character, power, the resurrection, and our own experience.
When you put your faith in Christ, God makes you a member of the Body of Christ. If you take your place in the Body of Christ then you experience God's blessing. If you don't take your place in the Body, you miss His blessing, and your own refreshment and growth is limited.
When you put your faith in Christ, God makes you a member of the Body of Christ. If you take your place in the Body of Christ then you experience God's blessing. If you don't take your place in the Body, you miss His blessing, and your own refreshment and growth is limited.
Peacemaking is a major issue for Christ-followers - it is the key to enjoying life. Peacemakers enter "The Zone" - God blesses them. God is pleased when we take the initiative to live at peace with others, if possible.
Peacemaking is a major issue for Christ-followers - it is the key to enjoying life. Peacemakers enter "The Zone" - God blesses them. God is pleased when we take the initiative to live at peace with others, if possible.
We are "in the zone" of God's blessing when we follow God's guidance for living and manage our resources for God's benefit. God's test for spiritual blessing is faithfulness. Money is our biggest management issue. God promises that He will bless faithful financial management and giving.
We are "in the zone" of God's blessing when we follow God's guidance for living and manage our resources for God's benefit. God's test for spiritual blessing is faithfulness. Money is our biggest management issue. God promises that He will bless faithful financial management and giving.
The heart of the zone is living life God's way. Trusting God to the point of obeying Him is the first boundary. Baptism is the first step of obedience that Jesus asks us to take. It is a visible test of our willingness to follow.
The heart of the zone is living life God's way. Trusting God to the point of obeying Him is the first boundary. Baptism is the first step of obedience that Jesus asks us to take. It is a visible test of our willingness to follow.
Wisdom is the key to handling our money. There are financial decisions that we must make: Live on less than you make, track your spending, get rid of dumb debt.
Wisdom is the key to handling our money. There are financial decisions that we must make: Live on less than you make, track your spending, get rid of dumb debt.
Heart issues that drive us off course financially are greed, comparison, and discontent. In this message, we will discover God's antidote to these. They are bridled when you turn your attention from what you want to what others need--you discover and appreciate the shelter God has provided.
Heart issues that drive us off course financially are greed, comparison, and discontent. In this message, we will discover God's antidote to these. They are bridled when you turn your attention from what you want to what others need--you discover and appreciate the shelter God has provided.
When it comes to personal finances, it is easy to get lost. If we follow our heart without a good financial map, the day comes when we suddenly realize we are in trouble. In this message and the rest of the series, we will learn God's perspective on money and aim to adopt His values.
When it comes to personal finances, it is easy to get lost. If we follow our heart without a good financial map, the day comes when we suddenly realize we are in trouble. In this message and the rest of the series, we will learn God's perspective on money and aim to adopt His values.
A key to our growth is love that pushes us outside of our comfort zone to serve others and share Christ with those who don't know Him.
A key to our growth is love that pushes us outside of our comfort zone to serve others and share Christ with those who don't know Him.
God uses the experiences, frustrations, and trouble in our lives to grow us spiritually -- our role is to turn to Him and trust Him and His way as we learn to deal with life. God uses trouble to refine us like the fire with gold.
God uses the experiences, frustrations, and trouble in our lives to grow us spiritually -- our role is to turn to Him and trust Him and His way as we learn to deal with life. God uses trouble to refine us like the fire with gold.
Staying connected to Christ and His Word is a key ingredient to spiritual growth. If we let God's truth sink into us we bear the fruit of a changed life that glorifies Him and gives us real joy.
Staying connected to Christ and His Word is a key ingredient to spiritual growth. If we let God's truth sink into us we bear the fruit of a changed life that glorifies Him and gives us real joy.
Once we decide to follow Christ, God puts us in His body (the church) and brings growth as we stay connected and contribute to what He wants us to do through His people. The connection brings stability and helps us to identify and reject wrong thinking.
Once we decide to follow Christ, God puts us in His body (the church) and brings growth as we stay connected and contribute to what He wants us to do through His people. The connection brings stability and helps us to identify and reject wrong thinking.
God is very interested in our spiritual growth and wants us to learn how to cooperate with His Spirit to grow more like Him. The growth that God brings has value for all things.
God is very interested in our spiritual growth and wants us to learn how to cooperate with His Spirit to grow more like Him. The growth that God brings has value for all things.
Denying yourself is the way to life. Real freedom follows a path of discipline. Spiritual discipline has a high reward and value in our lives both now and into eternity.
Denying yourself is the way to life. Real freedom follows a path of discipline. Spiritual discipline has a high reward and value in our lives both now and into eternity.
Doing the right thing is time-consuming and hard, while doing the wrong thing is quick, easy, and comes naturally. Righteousness is harder to begin with and makes things easier down the road, while sin is easier up front and makes things harder later on.
Doing the right thing is time-consuming and hard, while doing the wrong thing is quick, easy, and comes naturally. Righteousness is harder to begin with and makes things easier down the road, while sin is easier up front and makes things harder later on.
Mary's response is a great example for us. She shows us how to respond to do God's will and work with a humble heart which will bring God's blessing.
Mary's response is a great example for us. She shows us how to respond to do God's will and work with a humble heart which will bring God's blessing.
Joseph is a righteous man who obeys God's directions and leading in stressful times. He is a tremendous example of how to follow God and be used for His purpose in the flow of history.
Joseph is a righteous man who obeys God's directions and leading in stressful times. He is a tremendous example of how to follow God and be used for His purpose in the flow of history.
True worship of the Lord brings perspective to our life and troubles and a deep sense of relief. Who God is and what He has done should lead us to worship Him in tangible ways.
True worship of the Lord brings perspective to our life and troubles and a deep sense of relief. Who God is and what He has done should lead us to worship Him in tangible ways.
Heartfelt gratitude is important to God. Being grateful honors Him, brings His blessing into our lives, and helps us to deal with stress.
Heartfelt gratitude is important to God. Being grateful honors Him, brings His blessing into our lives, and helps us to deal with stress.
God has made us who we are and given us everything we own. Being faithful stewards of our lives (time and money and possessions) honors Him and brings many blessings into our lives. Giving God what is His and managing well gives Him rightful place in our lives.
God has made us who we are and given us everything we own. Being faithful stewards of our lives (time and money and possessions) honors Him and brings many blessings into our lives. Giving God what is His and managing well gives Him rightful place in our lives.
Patience is the quality that allows us to continue the climb in the face of adversity.
Note- there was no sermon outline for this message.
Choosing to be "coachable" is the only legitimate way to find shortcuts for learning and pursuing goals.
Choosing to be "coachable" is the only legitimate way to find shortcuts for learning and pursuing goals.
Showing the right kind of respect to others is the path to accomplishing goals while earning the respect of others.
Showing the right kind of respect to others is the path to accomplishing goals while earning the respect of others.
Raise your kids to become responsible people and make wise choices, but do so in kindness, for manipulating or exasperating them will undermine your relationship with them.
Raise your kids to become responsible people and make wise choices, but do so in kindness, for manipulating or exasperating them will undermine your relationship with them.
All of us can fall in love in a moment's notice. There is a right person and a right time to fall in love--how can I tell who and when it's right?
All of us can fall in love in a moment's notice. There is a right person and a right time to fall in love--how can I tell who and when it's right?
For a good life, ladies need good friends who will call them upward, not downward. Ladies develop friendships by talking about things.
For a good life, ladies need good friends who will call them upward, not downward. Ladies develop friendships by talking about things.
Guys need friends who will call them to step up to the plate and deliver at home, work, and in ministry. Male friendships develop in the context of getting things done. If you want friends, be a friend.
Guys need friends who will call them to step up to the plate and deliver at home, work, and in ministry. Male friendships develop in the context of getting things done. If you want friends, be a friend.
Attraction in marriage grows when we understand each other, show kindness and build each other up with our words. In this message we will look at how attraction in marriage can grow through the years and not dissipate.
Attraction in marriage grows when we understand each other, show kindness and build each other up with our words. In this message we will look at how attraction in marriage can grow through the years and not dissipate.
God wants us to be a "people bridge" to help our friends and family come to know Christ. This message will look at the example of Matthew's investment in his friends and family and Andrew's invitation to meet Jesus.
God wants us to be a "people bridge" to help our friends and family come to know Christ. This message will look at the example of Matthew's investment in his friends and family and Andrew's invitation to meet Jesus.
Joseph lives out his faith in the moment as God works out His plan on a large scale. Joseph's faith, convictions, obedience and diligence on a day to day basis brought God's favor and the preservation of His people.
Joseph lives out his faith in the moment as God works out His plan on a large scale. Joseph's faith, convictions, obedience and diligence on a day to day basis brought God's favor and the preservation of His people.
Nehemiah demonstrates how to accomplish a goal in the face of adversity and discouragement.
Nehemiah demonstrates how to accomplish a goal in the face of adversity and discouragement.
Daniel and friends show us how to respond to our culture with resolve and conviction in a way that contributes and brings God's blessing to those around Him.
Daniel and friends show us how to respond to our culture with resolve and conviction in a way that contributes and brings God's blessing to those around Him.
God wants us to take our requests to Him even though He already knows our needs. The asking develops the dependence that delights Him.
God wants us to take our requests to Him even though He already knows our needs. The asking develops the dependence that delights Him.
Abraham chose to walk by faith and not by sight. Because of this, God credited his faith as righteousness and blessed Him in his lifetime and fulfilled His promise through the generations.
Abraham chose to walk by faith and not by sight. Because of this, God credited his faith as righteousness and blessed Him in his lifetime and fulfilled His promise through the generations.
This message will look at how life is a series of choices and decisions and how stress comes from being double-minded about our decisions and the unknown. We'll dig into how God is our guide and how we can get clarity in our decisions as we admit we need guidance, ask for direction, and learn how to listen to God.
This message will look at how life is a series of choices and decisions and how stress comes from being double-minded about our decisions and the unknown. We'll dig into how God is our guide and how we can get clarity in our decisions as we admit we need guidance, ask for direction, and learn how to listen to God.
This message will highlight the path to emotional healing and how God can "restore our soul." It focuses on three major ways God restores us: 1. He removes our guilt, 2. He relieves our grief, 3. He replaces our grudges.
This message will highlight the path to emotional healing and how God can "restore our soul." It focuses on three major ways God restores us: 1. He removes our guilt, 2. He relieves our grief, 3. He replaces our grudges.
This message looks at how God wants us to deal with busyness and being overwhelmed in the right way. We'll focus on the right way to R.E.L.A.X.: Realize God wants me to rest, Evaluate my choices, Limit my labor, Adjust my values, and eXchange my pressure for God's peace.
This message looks at how God wants us to deal with busyness and being overwhelmed in the right way. We'll focus on the right way to R.E.L.A.X.: Realize God wants me to rest, Evaluate my choices, Limit my labor, Adjust my values, and eXchange my pressure for God's peace.
This message looks at how God takes care of our anxiety as He relates to us as a Shepherd. He provides, protects, guides, and corrects and we'll dig into each of these roles and how it relieves our worry.
This message looks at how God takes care of our anxiety as He relates to us as a Shepherd. He provides, protects, guides, and corrects and we'll dig into each of these roles and how it relieves our worry.
Jesus instructs us to ask for and claim victory over temptation and deliverance from the attacks of the enemy. Making this a pattern in prayer helps us to stay alert and resist the devil.
Jesus instructs us to ask for and claim victory over temptation and deliverance from the attacks of the enemy. Making this a pattern in prayer helps us to stay alert and resist the devil.
Getting and giving forgiveness is a crucial step to keep things right with God and others. God wants to bring healing as we wrestle with forgiveness in prayer.
Getting and giving forgiveness is a crucial step to keep things right with God and others. God wants to bring healing as we wrestle with forgiveness in prayer.
God wants us to take our requests to Him even though He already knows our needs. The asking develops the dependence that delights Him.
God wants us to take our requests to Him even though He already knows our needs. The asking develops the dependence that delights Him.
The way to enter God's presence is through praise and thanksgiving--it helps bring things into perspective. We connect with God and get on His "wavelength" by submitting to His will and leadership in our lives.
The way to enter God's presence is through praise and thanksgiving--it helps bring things into perspective. We connect with God and get on His "wavelength" by submitting to His will and leadership in our lives.
The way to enter into God's presence is through praise and thanksgiving--it helps bring things into perspective. We connect with God and tune in with Him by submitting to His will and leadership in our lives.
The way to enter into God's presence is through praise and thanksgiving--it helps bring things into perspective. We connect with God and tune in with Him by submitting to His will and leadership in our lives.
The most important appointment of your day is when you get into Scripture and let God speak to you about your life. This message will give some practical handles for having Quiet Time.
The most important appointment of your day is when you get into Scripture and let God speak to you about your life. This message will give some practical handles for having Quiet Time.
It's important to read God's message to us (the Bible) because He has provided a comprehensive handbook for every part of our lives. In this message we will learn how to gain insight and direction from the Scriptures (through obedience).
It's important to read God's message to us (the Bible) because He has provided a comprehensive handbook for every part of our lives. In this message we will learn how to gain insight and direction from the Scriptures (through obedience).
The Bible claims to be a message from God Himself. Find out why you can believe He wrote it.
The Bible claims to be a message from God Himself. Find out why you can believe He wrote it.
God has sent us a text message--it's the Bible. Jesus' life, death, and resurrection are the Bible's core message. In this message learn what God is saying to us through the life of Christ.
God has sent us a text message--it's the Bible. Jesus' life, death, and resurrection are the Bible's core message. In this message learn what God is saying to us through the life of Christ.
Are you tired of wondering if you've done enough to qualify for heaven? This message discusses God's ultimate and final sacrifice promises heaven to all who choose to receive this eternity-changing gift - the greatness of grace.
Are you tired of wondering if you've done enough to qualify for heaven? This message discusses God's ultimate and final sacrifice promises heaven to all who choose to receive this eternity-changing gift - the greatness of grace.
You weren't the first person to make a mess of life; everyone sins. Our sin separates us from God and from the meaning and purpose that we draw from a pure relationship with Him. We have to openly and honestly admit our sin in order to recieve God's grace and forgiveness. When we ask Him for forgiveness, he will give it to us.
You weren't the first person to make a mess of life; everyone sins. Our sin separates us from God and from the meaning and purpose that we draw from a pure relationship with Him. We have to openly and honestly admit our sin in order to recieve God's grace and forgiveness. When we ask Him for forgiveness, he will give it to us.
We were created for community. God's creation of Eve met relational needs that existed in Adam. God gives us opportunites to connect with others so that we don't have to be alone!
We were created for community. God's creation of Eve met relational needs that existed in Adam. God gives us opportunites to connect with others so that we don't have to be alone!
A marriage license is more than a piece of paper. It represents a covenant made before God and the community, which He takes very seriously, and expects the same from us.
A marriage license is more than a piece of paper. It represents a covenant made before God and the community, which He takes very seriously, and expects the same from us.
God shows us the core problem behind conflict and lays out the path for working through it constructively.
God shows us the core problem behind conflict and lays out the path for working through it constructively.
Connection and relationships are most important to women. God show this in the consequences for rebellion in Genesis 3:16.
Connection and relationships are most important to women. God show this in the consequences for rebellion in Genesis 3:16.
God has designed men to thrive when they exercise the courage to fight for the right things and show strength by bearing their responsibility well.
God has designed men to thrive when they exercise the courage to fight for the right things and show strength by bearing their responsibility well.
God's wisdom is seen in the complementary features He designed into men and women. We can understand more of His purpose for the design through Creation and the need for God's help in the consequences of our rebellion.
God's wisdom is seen in the complementary features He designed into men and women. We can understand more of His purpose for the design through Creation and the need for God's help in the consequences of our rebellion.
The shield of faith is a crucial weapon for rejecting the wrong thinking that attacks us when we face temptation and trouble.
The shield of faith is a crucial weapon for rejecting the wrong thinking that attacks us when we face temptation and trouble.
It makes us nervous to follwo authority over us who hold our future in their hands--trusting God brings peace and freedom from worry.
It makes us nervous to follwo authority over us who hold our future in their hands--trusting God brings peace and freedom from worry.
Trusting that God is in control allows us to be flexible when things don't go our way or when major change occurs.
Trusting that God is in control allows us to be flexible when things don't go our way or when major change occurs.
Faith is the best response to the challenges of life--when we choose to apply faith to our circumstances, God works.
Faith is the best response to the challenges of life--when we choose to apply faith to our circumstances, God works.
The new year brings the time where people look to change their lives (patterns, direction, purpose). This message will look at the tools God uses to change people; specifically how God uses Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and Circumstances to change us. The second part of the message will look at choices we can make to change.
The new year brings the time where people look to change their lives (patterns, direction, purpose). This message will look at the tools God uses to change people; specifically how God uses Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and Circumstances to change us. The second part of the message will look at choices we can make to change.
This message will take a look at Psalm 34 and see how David gave us the right perspective on how to thank God and reflect on His goodnes to us. This message will encourage us to thank God for how He has blessed, challenged, protected, and provided this past year.
This message will take a look at Psalm 34 and see how David gave us the right perspective on how to thank God and reflect on His goodnes to us. This message will encourage us to thank God for how He has blessed, challenged, protected, and provided this past year.
Jesus stepped into our world to show us God's love, kindness and character. He wants his followers to do the same for others.
Jesus stepped into our world to show us God's love, kindness and character. He wants his followers to do the same for others.
We can depend on God to provide what we need as we set our hearts to do what He wants with our lives.
We make an eternal difference in the lives of others by helping them come to Christ and grow up in Him.
We all have to live for something. What causes your heart to keep beating? What is your life all about? This week, Greg Fuller takes a look at having purpose and choosing the right priorities.
Life is a stewardship from God. Nathan Lewis speaks on using his stewardship to grow the next generation of leaders.
We all have to give our lives to something. What causes your heart to keep on beating? What is your life all about? For five weeks we're going to spend some time talking about having purpose and choosing the right priorities.
We all have to give our lives to something. What causes your heart to keep on beating? What is your life all about? For five weeks we're going to spend some time talking about having purpose and choosing the right priorities.
What if someone close turns their back on me? Prepare your heart to deal with disappointment in relationships and potentially to handle betrayal.
What if someone close turns their back on me? Prepare your heart to deal with disappointment in relationships and potentially to handle betrayal.
What if I lose it all? Trust God in the face of uncertain financial times and do what you can to prepare for any circumstance.
What if I lose it all? Trust God in the face of uncertain financial times and do what you can to prepare for any circumstance.
What if I don't really matter? Adopt God's path to significance and deal with the fear of being lost in the universe.
What if I don't really matter? Adopt God's path to significance and deal with the fear of being lost in the universe.
What if I fail? The fear of failure holds you back from dealing with adversity and reaching for challenging goals. Put your faith in God and work through this fear.
What if I fail? The fear of failure holds you back from dealing with adversity and reaching for challenging goals. Put your faith in God and work through this fear.
What if this is it? If you conquer the fear of death, you can deal with all the other fears. Jesus is the key to overcoming our greatest fear (and all others).
What if this is it? If you conquer the fear of death, you can deal with all the other fears. Jesus is the key to overcoming our greatest fear (and all others).
In this message we take a look at how to give your children the right vision and values for their life. The importance of a warm atmosphere, coaching and example.
Parents can use trouble to help their kids learn crucial lessons that will set them up for success in life.
Parents can use trouble to help their kids learn crucial lessons that will set them up for success in life.
In this message, Pastor Randy Lanthripe teaches how to change your family mentality from selfishness to teamwork and cooperation so your family can thrive in the face of challenges.
In this message, Pastor Randy Lanthripe teaches how to change your family mentality from selfishness to teamwork and cooperation so your family can thrive in the face of challenges.
This message will show a clear path to grow in maturity and contribute to the mission at CIV. We'll take a look at our plas for the coming year and how members and guests can CONNECT (to Christ and the church", GROW (toward maturity) and REACH (help others come to Christ and connect to the body).
This message will show a clear path to grow in maturity and contribute to the mission at CIV. We'll take a look at our plas for the coming year and how members and guests can CONNECT (to Christ and the church", GROW (toward maturity) and REACH (help others come to Christ and connect to the body).
What is Christian maturity and how do I grow toward it? Real progress is made as you freely choose to obey God and adopt His values system.
What is Christian maturity and how do I grow toward it? Real progress is made as you freely choose to obey God and adopt His values system.
We can endure the race God has given us as we rely on God and in the power He gives us. This message will also focus on how God helps us by providing us people to serve and people who serve us. God has designed life for us to succeed and not fail--and we will look into what this looks like.
We can endure the race God has given us as we rely on God and in the power He gives us. This message will also focus on how God helps us by providing us people to serve and people who serve us. God has designed life for us to succeed and not fail--and we will look into what this looks like.
This message looks at what it means to surrender to the Lordship of Christ and the hindrances that we face along the way, even when we do make Him boss. The goal of this message is to show how we cannot experience true blessing until we decide that we're not going to hold anything back from God.
This message looks at what it means to surrender to the Lordship of Christ and the hindrances that we face along the way, even when we do make Him boss. The goal of this message is to show how we cannot experience true blessing until we decide that we're not going to hold anything back from God.
As you invest in the people around you God opens doors to share the message. Joining the adventrue means learning to follow God through open doors and understanding His purpose in the doors that close.
As you invest in the people around you God opens doors to share the message. Joining the adventrue means learning to follow God through open doors and understanding His purpose in the doors that close.
God brings people together to love, serve and encourage one another so that others want to join in and be included in the group.
God brings people together to love, serve and encourage one another so that others want to join in and be included in the group.
The core message of Christianity is powerful. Our role in the adventrue is to know the message and share it whenever we have opportunity.
The core message of Christianity is powerful. Our role in the adventrue is to know the message and share it whenever we have opportunity.
God advances His work throught the prayers of His people. To fulfill God's purpose we must ask Him for the help we need and rely on Him to do the things that we can't.
God advances His work throught the prayers of His people. To fulfill God's purpose we must ask Him for the help we need and rely on Him to do the things that we can't.
God's Spirit begins and leads the early church. He is a witness and provides motivation and leadership we must follow in order to join in the adventure. This message shows ho the Spirit leads and what we do to follow.
God's Spirit begins and leads the early church. He is a witness and provides motivation and leadership we must follow in order to join in the adventure. This message shows ho the Spirit leads and what we do to follow.
God has given us a key role in fulfilling His purpose and wants us to start right were we live (in our neighborhood and city).
God has given us a key role in fulfilling His purpose and wants us to start right were we live (in our neighborhood and city).
God wants church members to work as a team to accomplish the mission He has assigned us. There are four characteristics that will help the church be the best team possible to accomplish legendary things for God's purpose and with God's help.
God wants church members to work as a team to accomplish the mission He has assigned us. There are four characteristics that will help the church be the best team possible to accomplish legendary things for God's purpose and with God's help.
God has a growing family- His legendary teams accept one another and keep on growing by adding to their number.
God has a growing family- His legendary teams accept one another and keep on growing by adding to their number.
A legendary team stays "sharp" in the way they approach things. Sharp: alert competence and clear understanding shown in a resourceful, enthusiastic way.
A legendary team stays "sharp" in the way they approach things. Sharp: alert competence and clear understanding shown in a resourceful, enthusiastic way.
A legendary team and its members are proactive--they have a "can do" attitude and take initiative to do right and accomplish our purpose.
A legendary team and its members are proactive--they have a "can do" attitude and take initiative to do right and accomplish our purpose.
At CIV, we value a godly cohesion (cohesion: to stick together tightly). A legendary team chooses to be loyal and trust one another, which builds unity and brings results to glorify God
At CIV, we value a godly cohesion (cohesion: to stick together tightly). A legendary team chooses to be loyal and trust one another, which builds unity and brings results to glorify God
Your heart plays a major role in financial freedom. Learning to guard it and keep it in check keeps you inside the guardrails on the road to financial freedom.
Your heart plays a major role in financial freedom. Learning to guard it and keep it in check keeps you inside the guardrails on the road to financial freedom.
God's perspective on work will help you find satisfaction in it and help you make the right kind of progress on the road to financial freedom.
God's perspective on work will help you find satisfaction in it and help you make the right kind of progress on the road to financial freedom.
Being a godly parent is a crucial role we can play to help our children fulfill God's purpose in their generation and experience true fulfillment. The heritage of godly parents is a priceless inheritance.
Being a godly parent is a crucial role we can play to help our children fulfill God's purpose in their generation and experience true fulfillment. The heritage of godly parents is a priceless inheritance.
God commands His people to give for their own good--it brings God's protection and blessing (like obedience).
God commands His people to give for their own good--it brings God's protection and blessing (like obedience).
Debt is strongly discouraged in Scripture because it can put you in bondage so that you are not completely free to love others or obey God
Debt is strongly discouraged in Scripture because it can put you in bondage so that you are not completely free to love others or obey God
Control is a core issue on the road to financial freedom. If we choose to let God control our lives and finances He sets our heart free to follow His guidelines that make freedom a reality in the way we manage our money.
Control is a core issue on the road to financial freedom. If we choose to let God control our lives and finances He sets our heart free to follow His guidelines that make freedom a reality in the way we manage our money.
We should set our heart to play the role in life that God gives us and use whatever power He gives us to bless others.
We should set our heart to play the role in life that God gives us and use whatever power He gives us to bless others.
Jesus does not condemn anyone because of their past, but aims to meet the deepest needs of those who trust in Him. A key to knowing Jesus' identity is a personal encounter with Him and the living water He gives.
Jesus does not condemn anyone because of their past, but aims to meet the deepest needs of those who trust in Him. A key to knowing Jesus' identity is a personal encounter with Him and the living water He gives.
Jesus shows that true love for God involves devotion and worship from a pure heart. He explains that you can verify His identity through the resurrection.
Jesus shows that true love for God involves devotion and worship from a pure heart. He explains that you can verify His identity through the resurrection.
Seeing things through the eyes of the other (compassion) and helping them with their goals (kindness) builds a bridge that connects us to others.
Seeing things through the eyes of the other (compassion) and helping them with their goals (kindness) builds a bridge that connects us to others.
The foundation for lasting relationships is a love that is gracious and kind. Agape love: a principle based love that is willing to act in the best interests of the other person regardless of how I feel.
The foundation for lasting relationships is a love that is gracious and kind. Agape love: a principle based love that is willing to act in the best interests of the other person regardless of how I feel.
To "get the most out of life: we need to connect to God and make the most of the opportunities He brings our way.
To "get the most out of life: we need to connect to God and make the most of the opportunities He brings our way.
We are the light, and if we live in the light we experience its fruit. In this message, we will compare the fruit of light and darkness to help us avoid darkness and live our new identity of light.
We are the light, and if we live in the light we experience its fruit. In this message, we will compare the fruit of light and darkness to help us avoid darkness and live our new identity of light.
Our life is an orginal that has never been lived before and is shaped by the choices we make. At the same time, God wants my life to imitate the love of Christ.
Our life is an orginal that has never been lived before and is shaped by the choices we make. At the same time, God wants my life to imitate the love of Christ.
The Lord leads us to develop a new pattern and way of living that affects the way we relate, handle situations, and deal with issues in our lives.
The Lord leads us to develop a new pattern and way of living that affects the way we relate, handle situations, and deal with issues in our lives.
Our goal for spiritual growth should be to measure up to Christ's way of living and relating--to reach this goal we much change our mentality and our ways.
Our goal for spiritual growth should be to measure up to Christ's way of living and relating--to reach this goal we much change our mentality and our ways.
In reality, our lives are lived out before an eternal audience who is watching how we play our role in life, especially the way we treat others and invest our resources.
In reality, our lives are lived out before an eternal audience who is watching how we play our role in life, especially the way we treat others and invest our resources.
Today's decisions lay the foundation for our future-- learn how to work through decisions peacefully without panic.
Today's decisions lay the foundation for our future-- learn how to work through decisions peacefully without panic.
Worries over money and work are disturbing--find out how to deal with these worries and experience peace of mind.
Worries over money and work are disturbing--find out how to deal with these worries and experience peace of mind.
Conflict and problems in relationships can shake us up-- find out how to stay focused on the things that will help bring God's peace to your life.
Conflict and problems in relationships can shake us up-- find out how to stay focused on the things that will help bring God's peace to your life.
When God extends His grace to us it allows us to treat other people with grace. In this message, Alex discusses how relationships are so much sweeter when grace is extended.
When God extends His grace to us it allows us to treat other people with grace. In this message, Alex discusses how relationships are so much sweeter when grace is extended.
In this message Alex focuses on putting off the old life, living the new life, and renewing our mind. God helps us to do these things as we grow in grace.
In this message Alex focuses on putting off the old life, living the new life, and renewing our mind. God helps us to do these things as we grow in grace.
Our relationship with God is built on nothing more than grace alone. This message focuses on salvation and grace and how this frees us to truly have a real relationship with God-- with no strings attached. God meets us where we are.
Our relationship with God is built on nothing more than grace alone. This message focuses on salvation and grace and how this frees us to truly have a real relationship with God-- with no strings attached. God meets us where we are.
The order and design in the universe gives testimony to a designer. This message gives solid reasons for believing in the God of the Bible.
The order and design in the universe gives testimony to a designer. This message gives solid reasons for believing in the God of the Bible.
The Bible claims that God created the universe from nothing. This message will show how the theory of evolution breaks down and will show the scientific reasons to believe in a Designer.
You can see the love and concern of the Creator in the provision He has made for life on this planet. This message will show how the design of the planet points to a Designer.
You can see the love and concern of the Creator in the provision He has made for life on this planet. This message will show how the design of the planet points to a Designer.
Guilt that turns to shame can keep you paralyzed in the past and steal your identity and joy in the present. God can take away our shame and restore our true identity and bring healing to the core of our being.
Guilt that turns to shame can keep you paralyzed in the past and steal your identity and joy in the present. God can take away our shame and restore our true identity and bring healing to the core of our being.
Your definition of success shapes your self image if it drives you to seek the approval of others and try to meet their expectations.
Your definition of success shapes your self image if it drives you to seek the approval of others and try to meet their expectations.
Our culture says that our source of value is based on outward things. Learn how your real identity has been crafted by God Himself. Beginning to see things the way God does can help you safeguard your true identity as you place the highest value on the inner you.
Our culture says that our source of value is based on outward things. Learn how your real identity has been crafted by God Himself. Beginning to see things the way God does can help you safeguard your true identity as you place the highest value on the inner you.
All of us want a love that never fails. When others disappoint us, it's easy to become resentful and bitter. Bitterness erodes our true identity. Learn how to recover your true identity and find protection from this identity theft.
All of us want a love that never fails. When others disappoint us, it's easy to become resentful and bitter. Bitterness erodes our true identity. Learn how to recover your true identity and find protection from this identity theft.
We do our part of the overall mission while staying focused on the world mission of the whole church in our attitude, giving and sending people out to serve.
We do our part of the overall mission while staying focused on the world mission of the whole church in our attitude, giving and sending people out to serve.
We pull together as a team to accomplish the things that God has assigned in Scripture. When needed, we change the way we do things to achieve good results.
We pull together as a team to accomplish the things that God has assigned in Scripture. When needed, we change the way we do things to achieve good results.
When you decide to follow Christ you make it your aim to become like Him. Christ-likeness brings real benefits to our lives, both in relationships and our stewardships.
When you decide to follow Christ you make it your aim to become like Him. Christ-likeness brings real benefits to our lives, both in relationships and our stewardships.
We can effectively share this treasure by investing (serving) in those around us and inviting them to events at CIV where they will see and hear the treasure (Gospel).
We can effectively share this treasure by investing (serving) in those around us and inviting them to events at CIV where they will see and hear the treasure (Gospel).
Neil Walker explains the importance of sharing our faith, or treasure, with others, and gives instruction on how to overcome fears and obstacles in doing so.
We are ordinary household vessels who carry around a priceless treasure--the gospel that leads us to know God and His glory. Salvation is a priceless treasure!
We are ordinary household vessels who carry around a priceless treasure--the gospel that leads us to know God and His glory. Salvation is a priceless treasure!
When we care about the little things (words, responsibilities, choices) God protects and blesses our lives.
When we care about the little things (words, responsibilities, choices) God protects and blesses our lives.
God has provided boundaries that help us communicate that people are valuable, precious, and eternal.
Trouble is inevitable, but when we make Christ the boss of our life, He uses trouble to train us and grow our faith. Though inconvenient, it can be profitable and useful if we approach it in the right way.
Trouble is inevitable, but when we make Christ the boss of our life, He uses trouble to train us and grow our faith. Though inconvenient, it can be profitable and useful if we approach it in the right way.
Finding meaning in life comes when we are thankful and satisfied with God's provision. We will explore how contentment frees us up to serve God and others because we are motivated by what we have rather than what we do not have.
Finding meaning in life comes when we are thankful and satisfied with God's provision. We will explore how contentment frees us up to serve God and others because we are motivated by what we have rather than what we do not have.
Life should not be lived our of our past or future but we should focus on living for God in the here and now. We can make the most out of today by being faithful and obedient in the present.
Life should not be lived our of our past or future but we should focus on living for God in the here and now. We can make the most out of today by being faithful and obedient in the present.
We find true meaning in life as we invest in things that are eternal. Learn how to choose lasting things over temporary things (status and security) and discover the blessings that come with them.
Randy shares God's heart for the next generation and aims to motivate dads to make the most of the opportunity they have to invest in their children and prepare them to live for God's purpose.
To experience the benefits of life in the Spirit we must: walk by the Spirit NOT by our flesh which has already been crucified with Christ. A "Moment by Moment Dance" where we must say no to the flesh and yes to the Spirit over and over again.
Randy compares and contrasts the "works" of the flesh with the "fruit" of the Sprit. He explains how to identify whether you are drawing on: - your own resources OR - God's Spirit to live life and relate to others.
There is a battle: . You purpose to do right VS . The Flesh: an enemy from within that is opposing your good intent. The way to conquer the flesh - yield to the Spirit's leadership.
We have two ways of living life: we will consider others as we walk in the Spirit or we will consume our relationships as we live out of the flesh.
We have two ways of living life: we will consider others as we walk in the Spirit or we will consume our relationships as we live out of the flesh.
2 Key attitudes set the stage for gaining wisdom. Learn how humility and reverence set the stage for wisdom and should characterize your approach to everyday life.
2 Key attitudes set the stage for gaining wisdom. Learn how humility and reverence set the stage for wisdom and should characterize your approach to everyday life.
God is really there, and He is running the universe. Learn some core characteristics of God that lead us to give Him His rightful place in our lives
God is really there, and He is running the universe. Learn some core characteristics of God that lead us to give Him His rightful place in our lives
Wisdom chooses the best path that brings lasting success and happiness. Learn what wisdom is and where you can find it.
Wisdom chooses the best path that brings lasting success and happiness. Learn what wisdom is and where you can find it.
Learn why you can trust the New Testament as the word of God and see how the Lord wants to empower us through a relationship with Him.
The testimony of the disciples gives reason to believe in the resurrection. Learn how the Lord gives power (seen in the resurrection) to overcome your guilt, fear and weaknesses and help you accomplish His purpose for your life.
The testimony of the disciples gives reason to believe in the resurrection. Learn how the Lord gives power (seen in the resurrection) to overcome your guilt, fear and weaknesses and help you accomplish His purpose for your life.
If you choose to follow God's way, Jesus Christ will lead us to live a blessed and productive life.
If you choose to follow God's way, Jesus Christ will lead us to live a blessed and productive life.
Check out 3 fools found in the Bible who carve a path of destruction and show us the folly of blind desire, pride and malice. Learn how to limit the damage from the folly in our heart.
Check out 3 fools found in the Bible who carve a path of destruction and show us the folly of blind desire, pride and malice. Learn how to limit the damage from the folly in our heart.
Check out how the keciyl and eviyl foolish tendencies cause frustration in life. Learn how to deal with these tendencies as we let God change our foolish patterns.
Check out how the keciyl and eviyl foolish tendencies cause frustration in life. Learn how to deal with these tendencies as we let God change our foolish patterns.
God shows us that the roots of folly are found in our hearts. He wants us to know the source of our foolish strategies so we can choose a better way.
God shows us that the roots of folly are found in our hearts. He wants us to know the source of our foolish strategies so we can choose a better way.
Wisdom is the ability to handle relationships, challenges, and responsibilities of life in a way that honors God and brings His blessing as we make the right kind of progress toward the right goals.
Wisdom is the ability to handle relationships, challenges, and responsibilities of life in a way that honors God and brings His blessing as we make the right kind of progress toward the right goals.
Taking personal responsibility is essential for maintaining good relationships. Serving others and giving to a ministry is a valuable way to take a step toward responsibility.
True encouragement and acceptance make it possible to develop genuine relationships that grow stronger over time.
Love and integrity are crucial ingredients that provide an atmosphere for relationships to thrive.
The birth of Jesus shows the heart of God. He was the culmination of God's plan to make it possible for us to have a relationship with Him.