Covenant Life Church: Recent Episodes

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2 Corinthians 10:4-6 NKJVFor the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.

TEARING DOWN STRONGHOLDS

The Greek Word Stronghold → ochyrōma (ὀχύρωμα, Strong’s

Literal meaning:

– A fortress, castle, or prison; a strongly fortified place.
– A strongly held mindset, belief system, or pattern of thought that is resistant to God’s truth.

In Greek, ochyrōma = fortress, prison, or strong defense. Spiritually, it refers to entrenched patterns of thinking and lies that resist God’s truth—mental or spiritual “fortresses” that need to be demolished by God’s Word and Spirit.

BUILDING BLOCKS OF STRONGHOLDS

2 Corinthians 10:5 AMP[Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One),

Casting down

Meaning: to lower, demolish, destroy, pull down, overthrow.
Often used of tearing down walls, strongholds, or fortresses.

Arguments → logismos (λογισμός, Strong’s G3053)Meaning: reasoning, thought, speculation, imagination, logic, philosophy, or computation. It refers to intellectual reasoning or mental constructions that set themselves up against God’s revealed truth.

USE YOUR WEAPONS

Ephesians 6:10–13, NKJVFinally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;

1Hebrews 4:11–12, NKJVLet us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience. 12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

HOW TO CASTS DOWN ARGUMENTS– Identify Lies vs. Truth

Measure thoughts, teachings, and cultural philosophies against God’s Word.

1 Thessalonians 5:21 AMPBut test and prove all things [until you can recognize] what is good; [to that] hold fast.
– Speaking God’s Truth

Use Scripture, prayer, and Spirit-led wisdom to confront lies
– Bringing one’s own thoughts under Christ’s lordship—refusing to entertain fear, pride, unbelief.
– Consistency Over Time

renewing the soul is not a one-time event but a lifestyle.

Colossians 3:1–3 NKJV then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.

The post Thought Management first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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3 John 2-4 NKJVBeloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. 3 For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

Romans 12:2 NKJVAnd do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Isaiah 55:8–13 NKJV“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. 9 “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.

1. THE ONE TRUE WAY TO CHANGE

Psalm 1:1-3 AMPBLESSED (HAPPY, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable) is the man who walks and lives not in the counsel of the ungodly [following their advice, their plans and purposes], nor stands [submissive and inactive] in the path where sinners walk, nor sits down [to relax and rest] where the scornful [and the mockers] gather. 2 But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night. 3 And he shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity].

Joshua 1:8 AMPThis Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.

James 1:21 NKJVTherefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

2. BE DOERS OF THE WORD

James 1:22-24 NKJVBut be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.

2 Corinthians 5:17, NKJVTherefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

2 Corinthians 5:21, NKJVFor He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Psalm 107:20 NKJVHe sent His word and healed them, And delivered them from their destructions.

“Your mind won’t stay renewed any more than your hair will stay combed. You have to keep at it daily.” – Kenneth Hagin

3. CONTROL YOUR THOUGHTS

2 Corinthians 10:4-5 NKJVFor the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,

The post Save Your Soul first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Acts 6:8–13 NLTStephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed amazing miracles and signs among the people. 9 But one day some men from the Synagogue of Freed Slaves, as it was called, started to debate with him. They were Jews from Cyrene, Alexandria, Cilicia, and the province of Asia. 10 None of them could stand against the wisdom and the Spirit with which Stephen spoke. 11 So they persuaded some men to lie about Stephen, saying, “We heard him blaspheme Moses, and even God.” 12 This roused the people, the elders, and the teachers of religious law. So they arrested Stephen and brought him before the high council.* 13 The lying witnesses said, “This man is always speaking against the holy Temple and against the law of Moses.

1. THE WORLD IS OUR AIM

Mark 16:15–16, NKJVAnd He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.

Salt of The Earth

Matthew 5:13 NKJV“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.”

• Salt preserves and prevents decay
• Salt adds flavor
• If we lose our distinctiveness, our influence is diminished.

Light of the World

Matthew 5:14–16 NKJV“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Key Meaning:

• Light exposes darkness
• Light brings hope and direction
• Our “good works” are meant to point people to God, not just to ourselves. We are not called to just gather — we are called to go, influence, and transform.

2. OUR MOTIVATION IS LOVE

John 3:16–17 NKJV1For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

Romans 2:4 NLTDon’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?

3. OUR METHOD IS THE MIRACULOUS

Mark 16:17–18, NKJVAnd these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

Acts 1:4–8, NKJVAnd being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; 5 for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” 6 Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. 8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

TAKE ACTION

1. Repent & Consecrate — Humble ourselves before God, repent where we have been passive, and ask Him to cleanse our hearts.

2. Take Our Place in Prayer — Intercede for our leaders (whether we agree with them or not). Pray for protection over those in public service, over righteous voices, and over every innocent life. Bind the spirit of violence and lawlessness in the Name of Jesus. Stand as Watchmen – Don’t just pray once—stay on the wall. Be alert, be led by the Spirit, and respond when He calls you to intercede.

3. Speak Life Over the Nation — Declare God’s plans and purposes for this nation will prevail. Prophesy peace, righteousness, and justice. Call forth a great awakening.

4. Shine the Light Publicly — Refuse to be silent about truth and righteousness. Show the love of Christ to a hurting world. Model courage and compassion when others are afraid or divided.

The post SALT & LIGHT first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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FOUR KINDS OF LOVE

PHILIA = FRIENDSHIP LOVE.

Friendship / Brotherly Love

Definition: Affectionate love between friends; warm companionship marked by mutual respect, enjoyment, and trust.

John 15:13 NKJV“Greater love (phílos) has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”

STORGĒ = FAMILY/AFFECTION LOVE.like the love parents feel for children, or among family members.

Romans 12:10 NKJV“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love”

EROS = ROMANTIC/PHYSICAL LOVE.

– Key Trait: Romantic, passionate, and intimate love.

AGÁPĒ

–

UNCONDITIONAL, DIVINE LOVEDefinition: The highest form of love; selfless, sacrificial, unconditional. It seeks the good of others without expecting anything in return.

John 3:16 NKJV

“For God so loved (agapē) the world…”

Key Trait: God’s love toward humanity, and the love He calls us to show others. This Agape love doesn’t just the other kinds of love it empowers them. It brings them to their full potential

1. THIS LOVE IS IN US

Romans 5:5 NKJVNow hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

1 Corinthians 13:4–8, AMPLove endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily. 5 It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love God’s love in us does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered wrong]. 6 It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail. 7 Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening].
8 Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end]. As for prophecy (the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), it will be fulfilled and pass away; as for tongues, they will be destroyed and cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away [it will lose its value and be superseded by truth].

1 Corinthians 13:6-7 NKJV

does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

2. BEARS ALL THINGS

Greek Meaning: To cover, to protect, to conceal, to endure silently.

Word picture: Like a roof that shields from storms.

Sense: Love covers over faults, protects others, and carries burdens without complaint.

3. BELIEVES ALL THINGS

Greek: To have faith in, to trust, to place confidence in, to rely on.

Sense: Love gives the benefit of the doubt, choosing trust over suspicion. It is not gullibility, but a posture of faith in God and in others.

4. HOPES ALL THINGS

Greek Meaning: To look forward with confidence, to expect with trust, to wait for salvation with joy.

Love looks beyond present struggles, anticipating God’s redemption and the best in others.

5. ENDURES ALL THINGSGreek Meaning: To remain, to persevere, to stand firm under pressure, to hold one’s ground.

HOMEWORK

– MAKE LOVE YOUR AIM

1 Corinthians 14:1 AMPC
Eagerly pursue and seek to acquire [this] love [make it your aim, your great quest]…”

– CHECK YOUR LOVE WALK DAILY

Ask yourself:
– Am I holding anything against anyone?
– Am I treating others the way I want to be treated?

If the answer was “yes” to offense or bitterness, “Fix it

– GUARD AGAINST STRIFE

James 3:16 – “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.” strife is one of Satan’s main tools to neutralize faith. Solution: Be quick to apologize, keep peace in the home, and refuse to argue.

– SPEAK LOVE WORDS

Ephesians 4:29 – “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying…”

Your words either minister love or poison. Speaking harsh, critical, or bitter words damages your love walk.

Practical step: Train your mouth to build others up, not tear them down. “When in doubt, act in love. You’ll never miss it by walking in love.”

– CONFESS DAILY: “The love of God is in me. I choose to let that love dominate me today.” The Spirit empowers you to love beyond natural ability.

The post Enduring Love first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Love: The Power Behind Faith and Hope

Mark 11:22 NKJVSo Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God.

1 Corinthians 13:13 NKJVAnd now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

1 Thessalonians 1:2–3 NKJVWe give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, 3 remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father,

Philemon 1:5 NKJVhearing of your love and faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the saints,

Colossians 1:4-5 NKJVsince we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of your love for all the saints; 5 because of the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, of which you heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel,

2 Thessalonians 1:3 NKJVWe are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other,

1. DON’T FORGET LOVE

Galatians 5:6 AMPCFor [if we are] in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith activated and energized and expressed and working through love.

Galatians 5:6 TPT…All that matters now is living in the faith that is activated and brought to perfection by love.

Faith, activated and energized and expressed and working through love.

• Activated
• Energized
• Expressed
• Working through love

1 Corinthians 13:2 NKJV…if I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

2. LOVE IS THE NATURE OF GOD

1 John 4:8 NKJVBeloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 8 He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.

John 13:34–35 NKJVA new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

James 2:8, NKJVIf you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you do well;

3. UNFORGIVENESS BLOCKS FAITH

Mark 11:22–26 NKJVSo Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. 25 “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. 26 But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.”

Action step:

Practice Forgiveness Immediately.

– The moment you feel wronged, forgive. Don’t wait until you feel like it.

– Forgiveness is not a feeling, it’s a decision of faith. “If your faith isn’t working, check up on your love walk.”

– Kenneth E Hagin

4. FAITH EXPRESSED IN ACTION

James 2:17 NKJVThus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

James 2:14–17 NKJVWhat does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? 17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

Matthew 5:44-46 NKJVYou have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?

Action Step:

– Confess daily: “The love of God is in me. I choose to let that love dominate me today.”
– Pray Daily:
And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, 10 that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, 11 being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. (Philippians 1:9–11 NKJV)

The post Energized Faith first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Colossians 1:9–14, NKJVFor this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. 13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.

1. Strengthened

δυναμόω (dynamoō)Greek root: δύναμις (dynamis) = power, ability.

• To empower, make strong, enable, or fill with supernatural strength. This is not natural strength, but a divine impartation from God to equip believers to persevere, serve, and grow in holiness.

2. With all might

δύναμις (dynamis) Greek root: δύναμις (dynamis) = inherent power or capacity.

• Every measure or kind of divine strength available. This word emphasizes the totality of God’s power available to the believer, both for inner character development and for external works of faith. You can rely on God’s complete strength in every area of life, leaving no gap where weakness can dominate.

3. According to His glorious power

• Manifested power or might in action, dominion, authority.

JOY IS NECESSARY FOR ENDURANCE

Nehemiah 8:9-12 NKJVAnd Nehemiah, who was the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn nor weep.” For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the Law. 10 Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” 11 So the Levites quieted all the people, saying, “Be still, for the day is holy; do not be grieved.” 12 And all the people went their way to eat and drink, to send portions and rejoice greatly, because they understood the words that were declared to them.

BIBLICAL / STRONG’S CONCORDANCE:

• Gladness, joy, delight.
• A state of inner happiness not dependent on external circumstances.
• Often used in the New Testament to describe spiritual joy that comes from knowing

God’s grace, presence, and promises.

THAYER’S GREEK LEXICON:

• The calm delight and deep-seated gladness of the soul that is produced by the Holy Spirit.
• Not a fleeting emotion, but a settled confidence that God is in control.
• Opposite of fear, despair, or hopelessness.

1. STAY AWARE OF HIS PRESENCE

Psalm 16:11 NKJVYou will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Action Step:

• Cultivate this awareness through prayer, worship, and Scripture meditation.
• Begin your day by pausing and saying, “God, I’m aware You are here with me.”

2. ANCHOR YOURSELF IN HIS WORD

John 15:7-11 NKJV7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. 9 “As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. 10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. 11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.

Action Step:

• Read Scripture not just for information, but for connection.
• Mark verses about His faithfulness and promises — revisit them when discouraged.

3. PRACTICE THANKFULNESS

1 Thessalonians 5:18Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Action Step:

• Keep a “joy journal” where you write 3–5 things you’re thankful for each day.
• This trains your heart to spot God’s goodness even in hard times.

4. CHOOSE OBEDIENCE OVER FEELINGS

“If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love… that your joy may be full.” – John 15:10–11

5. SERVE AND ENCOURAGE OTHERS

1 John 1:3-4 NKJVthat which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. 4 And these things we write to you that your joy may be full.

Action Step:

• Joy multiplies when it flows outward.
• Look for ways to bless, encourage, or pray for others — joy follows giving.

Ephesians 3:20–21 NLTNow all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. 21 Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.

The post Running on Joy | God’s Fuel for Endurance first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Keep the Pace, Win the Race

James 1:2–4 NLTDear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance* has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

Your endurance will be tested

Endurance

Greek word ὑπομονή (hypomonē)• Literal sense: “to remain under,” “to stay put,” “to keep standing even while under pressure.”
• Biblical meaning: steadfastness, constancy, the quality of not surrendering to circumstances or quitting before the goal is reached.
• It implies not just waiting things out, but actively and courageously continuing forward in the will of God despite trials.

1. FIX YOUR EYES ON THE GOAL

Philippians 3:12–15 NKJVNot that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Jesus is both the example and the prize.

Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJVTherefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

ACTION STEPS

• Begin each day by declaring: “Today, I fix my eyes on Jesus.”
• Write down one promise of God you’re running toward and post it where
you’ll see it daily.• When distractions come, stop and re-focus with a quick prayer: “Jesus, I look to You.”

2. LAY ASIDE EVERY WEIGHT

To take hold, you are going to need to let go of something’s
Remove distractions, sins, or habits that slow spiritual progress.

ACTION STEPS:

• Ask the Holy Spirit this week: “What weight do I need to lay aside?”
• Take one practical step (e.g., limit scrolling, cut a toxic habit, forgive someone).
• Replace the weight with a spiritual discipline (prayer, worship, or Scripture meditation).

3. ACCEPT YOUR COURSE

Don’t compare races; embrace the one God designed for you.

1 Corinthians 9:24 NKJVDo you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize?
Run in such a way that you may obtain it.

ACTION STEPS:

• Stop comparing—celebrate someone else’s race while running yours.
• Write a gratitude list of 5 things God has specifically entrusted to you.
• Each morning pray: “Lord, I embrace the course You’ve given me today.”

4. TRAIN DAILY

Prayer, Scripture, fellowship, and obedience keep spiritual stamina strong.

James 4:7 NKJVTherefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.

ACTION STEPS:

• Set a consistent time each day for prayer and Bible reading.
• Find a “training partner” (friend or group) for accountability.
• Speak the Word out loud when challenges come: “I will not waver. God’s promises are true.”

“If you’ll stand on the Word long enough, the devil will get tired before you do.”

5. PERSEVERE THROUGH PAINEndurance often grows in trials, not comfort (James 1:2–4). Faith starts the journey, but patience (perseverance) carries it to completion.

Hebrews 6:11-12 NKJVAnd we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

ACTION STEPS

• When trials come, reframe them: “This is an opportunity for my endurance to grow.”
• Keep a journal of answered prayers as proof that waiting on God works.
• Refuse to quit—remind yourself: “Faith starts my race, but patience carries me to the finish.”

The post Endurance first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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John 16:33 ESV
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace.
In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

1 Peter 4:12 ESV says
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

“Faith in God is not an instant ticket to utopia.” – Pastor Kenneth W. Hagin

In any test, we need to understand where our suffering is coming from and how God wants us to handle it.

Jonah

Jonah 1:17-2:1,10 NKJV
Now the Lord had prepared a great fish to swallow Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights. Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the fish’s belly. 10 So the Lord spoke to the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land.

Cause: Jonah’s stubborn disobedience
Escape: Prayer, Repentance, and Reconsecration
But not all suffering comes as a result of sin

The Disciples

Mark 4:37-41 NKJV
37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. 38 But He (Jesus) was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” 39 Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace,[a] be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. 40 But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said to one another, “Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!” They were in complete obedience, but suffering still came

Cause: Spiritual demonic forces
Escape: Spiritual authority and the command of faith

Paul

Acts 27:10-11 NKJV
10 saying, “Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives.” 11 Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul.

Verses 18-25
18 And because we were exceedingly tempest-tossed, the next day they lightened the ship. 19 On the third day we threw the ship’s tackle overboard with our own hands. 20 Now when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up. 21 But after long abstinence from food, (so they havnt even been eating or drinking at this point) then Paul stood in the midst of them and said, “Men, you should have listened to me, and not have sailed from Crete and incurred this disaster and loss. 22 And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. 23 For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, 24 saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.’ 25 Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me.

Cause: The effect of other people’s decisions
Escape: The perseverance and patience of faith

James 1:12 NIV
12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

Romans 12:12 KJV
12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

Romans 5:3-5 NIV
3 Not only so, but we[a] also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. The beginning is exciting. The end is exciting. It’s the middle that’s hard. Get through the hard part to get to the good part.

Job

James 5:11 NIV
11 As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

What each of these examples have in common is…
No matter what the cause of their suffering was…
No matter what the method of escape was…
As they put their trust in God…
God still brought Jonah to Nineveh.
He still brought the disciples over to the other side.
He still brought Paul to Rome.
And in the end He blessed Job with more than twice of everything he had before… And He’ll bring you through too.

Hebrews 12:1-3 NKJV
1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

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How To Maintain Forward Progress

1 John 5:4 NKJVFor whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.

Mark 11:22-23 NKJVSo Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.

DON’T DRIFT

Hebrews 2:1 NKJVTherefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away.

John 8:31-32 NKJVThen Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

John 10:10 NKJVThe thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

Mark 4:16-20 NKJVAnd He said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? 14 The sower sows the word. 15 And these are the ones by the wayside where the word is sown. When they hear, Satan comes immediately and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts. 16 These likewise are the ones sown on stony ground who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word’s sake, immediately they stumble. 18 Now these are the ones sown among thorns; they are the ones who hear the word, 19 and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept it, and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.”

Mark 4:24-25 NKJVThen He said to them, “Take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given. 25 For whoever has, to him more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.”

STOP THE THIEF

Psalm 103:20-21 NKJVBless the Lord, you His angels, Who excel in strength, who do His word, Heeding the voice of His word. 21 Bless the Lord, all you His hosts, You ministers of His, who do His pleasure.

2 Corinthians 10:4 KJV(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;

Galatians 6:7–9, NKJVDo not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

Proverbs 4:20-23 NKJVMy son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. 21 Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; 22 For they are life to those who find them, And health to all their flesh. 23 Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life. Give attention to the word and stay intentional about the word!!

Matthew 12:35-37 NKJVA good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things. 36 But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. 37 For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” If you don’t let go of the truth, you will know the truth and it set you free!!

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Psalm 33:10–11 NKJVThe Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect. 11 The counsel of the Lord stands forever, The plans of His heart to all generations.” The counsel of the Lord refers to God’s divine will, wisdom, and plans. It reveals His intentions, purposes, and guidance—offered to those who seek Him in humility and faith. It ensures that His purposes will ultimately prevail—no matter the resistance.

1. THE COUNSEL OF THE LORD IS ETERNAL & UNSHAKABLE

Proverbs 19:21 NKJVThere are many plans in a man’s heart, nevertheless the Lord’s counsel that will stand.”

Genesis 1:1-5 NLTIn the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. 3 Then God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. 4 And God saw that the light was good. Then he separated the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light “day” and the darkness “night.” And evening passed and morning came, marking the first day. “Then He separated the light from the darkness.”

DARKNESSchôshek, kho-shek’; (literally) darkness figuratively, misery, destruction, death, ignorance, sorrow, wickedness:—dark(-ness), night, obscurity.

LIGHT –

)ôr’( אוֹר

1. Literal Light

• Physical light—illumination that dispels darkness.

• Not tied to sun or moon yet (those are created later in Genesis 1:14–19).

• Genesis 1:3 introduces divine light, a manifestation of God’s presence and order.

1. Source of Life and Goodness

• Light in Hebrew thought often symbolizes life, order, righteousness, and blessing.

• The light in Genesis 1:3 is the beginning of God’s creative order—bringing form an function to chaos.

1. Spiritual Symbolism• Light = God’s presence, revelation, truth. A divine light—the first manifestation of God’s creative order, symbolizing illumination, life, clarity, and the beginning of transformation from chaos to purpose. Rooted in the verb meaning “to shine” or “to give light.”

2. LACK OF KNOWLEDGELack of the word = lack of light, darkness

Psalm 119:105 NLTYour word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.

Psalm 119:97–100 NLTOh, how I love your instructions! I think about them all day long. 98 Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are my constant guide. 99 Yes, I have more insight than my teachers, for I am always thinking of your laws. 100 I am even wiser than my elders, for I have kept your commandments.

1 Peter 2:9 AMPBut you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A CONSECRATED NATION, A [special] PEOPLE FOR God’s OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies [the wonderful deeds and virtues and perfections] of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

3. THE FEAR OF THE LORD LEADS TO HIS COUNSEL

Psalm 25:14The secret of the Lord is with those who fear Him, and He will show them His covenant.”

The CSB translation states,”The secret counsel of the Lord is for those who fear him,” The fear of the Lord is a deep reverence, awe, and respect for God—acknowledging His holiness, power, justice, and love, and responding with obedience, humility, and worship.

Proverbs 9:10 NKJV“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”

• It’s the foundation of true wisdom—right thinking begins with right reverence.

4. LACK OF FAITH

Isaiah 9:6 NKJVFor unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 11:2 NLTAnd the Spirit of the LORD will rest on him— the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.

HIS SPIRIT LIVES IN US

John 14:16–17 NKJVAnd I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Paraclete), that He may abide with you forever—the Spirit of truth… • Jesus promises another Helper (Greek: allos paraklētos), meaning another of the same kind—just like Jesus.

John 16:7 NLT“But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you.” The word “Paraclete” comes from the Greek word paraklētos, meaning: “One who is called alongside to help.” It refers to someone who comforts, advocates, counsels, strengthens, and intercedes—a helper and supporter.

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Ephesians 2:10 AMPFor we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].

1. GOOD WORKSDeuteronomy 28:8 NLT“The Lord will guarantee a blessing on everything you do and will fill your storehouses with grain. The Lord your God will bless you in the land he is giving you.

Deuteronomy 28:11–12 NLTThe Lord will give you prosperity in the land he swore to your ancestors to give you, blessing you with many children, numerous livestock, and abundant crops. 12 The Lord will send rain at the proper time from his rich treasury in the heavens and will bless all the work you do. You will lend to many nations, but you will never need to borrow from them.

Deuteronomy 8:16–18 NKJVwho fed you in the wilderness with manna, which your fathers did not know, that He might humble you and that He might test you, to do you good in the end—17 then you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth.’ 18 “And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.

Acts 1:8 AMPBut you shall receive power (ability, efficiency, and might) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem and all Judea and Samaria and to the ends (the very bounds) of the earth.

1 Corinthians 14:4 AMPHe who speaks in a strange tongue edifies and improves himself…

When you pray in the HG you are releasing the power and wisdom and counsel of the If you need counsel… Pull it out If you need power pull it out If you need direction pull it out

2. GET ON HIS PATHTaking paths which He prepared ahead of time

1John 14:16–18 NKJVAnd I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.

1 Corinthians 14:2For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries.

mysteries

Transliteration: mystērion secret, a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding a hidden purpose or counsel of God

3. LIVING THE GOOD LIFENo matter where you are at right now, tap into His power.

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GOD IS VERY GENEROUSPsalm 145:16–17 NLTWhen you open your hand, you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing. 17 The Lord is righteous in everything he does; he is filled with kindness.

John 3:16–17 NKJVFor God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

Romans 5:8 NKJVBut God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

John 15:13 NKJVGreater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.

James 1:17 NLTWhatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.

HE GAVE US HIS HEARTEphesians 4:22–24 NKJVthat you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24 and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.

CULTIVATE A GENEROUS HEARTMark 12:42–44 NKJVThen one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans. 43 So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to thetreasury; 44 for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood.”

HOW DO WE BECOME GENEROUS?“The question is not how much money I gift to God, but how much of God’s money I keep for myself.”– R.G LeTourneau

START SMALLBefore you do, the big things, learn to do the little things.

Acts 2:44–47 NKJVNow all who believed were together, and had all things in common, 45 and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. 46 So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

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Luke 6:20–21 NLTThen Jesus turned to his disciples and said, “God blesses you who are poor, for the Kingdom of God is yours. 21 God blesses you who are hungry now, for you will be satisfied. God blesses you who weep now, for in due time you will laugh.

2 Corinthians 8:9 NLTYou know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich.

Colossians 1:15–17 NLTChrist is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, 16 for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see— such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through him and for him. 17 He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together.

Colossians 1:17 AMPAnd He Himself existed and is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. [His is the controlling, cohesive force of the universe.]

Ephesians 2:19 NKJVNow, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God,

Matthew 6:19–21 NKJVDo not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Job 31:24 NKJV“If I have made gold my hope, Or said to fine gold, ‘You are my confidence’

1 Timothy 6:17–19 NLTTeach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. 18 Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works 1and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. 19 By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.

Luke 16:10–13 NKJVHe who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11 Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? 12 And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? 13 “No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.”

2 Corinthians 9:6–11 AMP grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings. 7 Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, “prompt to do it”) giver [whose heart is in his giving]. 8 And God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation]. 9 As it is written, He [the benevolent person] scatters abroad; He gives to the poor; His deeds of justice and goodness and kindness and benevolence will go on and endure forever! 10 And [God] Who provides seed for the sower and bread for eating will also provide and multiply your [resources for] sowing and increase the fruits of your righteousness [which manifests itself in active goodness, kindness, and charity]. 11 Thus you will be enriched in all things and in every way, so that you can be generous, and [your generosity as it is] administered by us will bring forth thanksgiving to God.

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Matthew 7:24–27 NKJVTherefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. 26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.”

2 Corinthians 1:20 NKJVFor all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.

1. TAKE GODS PROMISES BY FAITHRomans 3:29–4:3 NLTAfter all, is God the God of the Jews only? Isn’t he also the God of the Gentiles? Of course he is. 30 There is only one God, and he makes people right with himself only by faith, whether they are Jews or Gentiles. 31 Well then, if we emphasize faith, does this mean that we can forget about the law? Of course not! In fact, only when we have faith do we truly fulfill the law.

Chapter 4
1 Abraham was, humanly speaking, the founder of our Jewish nation. What did he discover about being made right with God? 2 If his good deeds had made him acceptable to God, he would have had something to boast about. But that was not God’s way. 3 For the 1Scriptures tell us, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.”

Romans 4:13–17 NLTClearly, God’s promise to give the whole earth to Abraham and his descendants was based not on his obedience to God’s law, but on a right relationship with God that comes by faith. 14 If God’s promise is only for those who obey the law, then faith is not necessary and the promise is pointless. 15 For the law always brings punishment on those who try to obey it. (The only way to avoid breaking the law is to have no law to break!) 16 So the promise is received by faith. It is given as a free gift. And we are all certain to receive it, whether or not we live according to the law of Moses, if we have faith like Abraham’s. For Abraham is the father of all who believe. 17 That is what the Scriptures mean when God told him, “I have made you the father of many nations.” This happened because Abraham believed in the God who brings the dead back to life and who creates new things out of nothing.

Romans 4:20–25 NLTAbraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. 21 He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises. 22 And because of Abraham’s faith, God counted him as righteous. 23 And when God counted him as righteous, it wasn’t just for Abraham’s benefit. It was recorded 24 for our benefit, too, assuring us that God will also count us as righteous if we believe in him, the one who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25 He was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised to life to make us right with God.

Romans 10:8–11 NKJVBut what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith which we preach): 9 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.”

2. BELIEVE IN YOUR HEARTPsalm 1:1–3 NKJVBlessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; 2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. 3 He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper. “What you put in your ears & in front of your eyes will eventually find its way into your heart & actions-Choose wisely who you listen to & what you watch-your future depends on it.”

Joshua 1:8–9 NKJVThis Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

3. SPEAK WITH YOUR MOUTHMark 11:20–23 NKJVNow in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. 21 And Peter, remembering, said to Him, “Rabbi, look! The fig tree which You cursed has withered away.” 22 So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.

Hebrews 10:23 NKJVLet us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.

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John 10:10 NKJVThe thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

Malachi 3:10–11 NKJVBring all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house, And try Me now in this,” Says the Lord of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it. 11 “And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, So that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground, Nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field,” Says the Lord of hosts;

Genesis 15:1 NKJVAfter these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.”

Genesis 17:1–2 NLTWhen Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am El-Shaddai —‘God Almighty.’ Serve me faithfully and live a blameless life. 2 I will make a covenant with you, by which I will guarantee to give you countless descendants.”

Genesis 15:1 NKJVAfter these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.”

Genesis 28:10–19 NKJVNow Jacob went out from Beersheba and went toward Haran. 11 So he came to a certain place and stayed there all night, because the sun had set. And he took one of the stones of that place and put it at his head, and he lay down in that place to sleep. 12 Then he dreamed, and behold, a ladder was set up on the earth, and its top reached to heaven; and there the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. 13 And behold, the Lord stood above it and said: “I am the Lord God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac; the land on which you lie I will give to you and your descendants. 14 Also your descendants shall be as the dust of the earth; you shall spread abroad to the west and the east, to the north and the south; and in you and in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed. 15 Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have spoken to you.” 16 Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.” 17 And he was afraid and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven!” 18 Then Jacob rose early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put at his head, set it up as a pillar, and poured oil on top of it. 19 And he called the name of that place Bethel; but the name of that city had been Luz previously.

1Verse 11 Ladder To Heaven

Hebrew – The place(Strong’s H4725) is the Hebrew word makom and in Jewish understanding is a reference to Mount Moriah, that is, the “Temple Mount” (The ArtScroll Stone Edition Chumash, p. 144, commentary on verse 11) where Isaac was “sacrificed” and the temple was eventually built.

Genesis 28:20–22 NKJV20 Then Jacob made a vow, saying, “If God will be with me, and keep me in this way that I am going, and give me bread to eat and clothing to put on, 21 so that I come back to my father’s house in peace, then the Lord shall be my God. 22 And this stone which I have set as a pillar shall be God’s house, and of all that You give me I will surely give a tenth to You.”

1. PROVISION – GOD’S BLESSINGGenesis 30:25–28 NLTSoon after Rachel had given birth to Joseph, Jacob said to Laban, “Please release me so I can go home to my own country. 26 Let me take my wives and children, for I have earned them by serving you, and let me be on my way. You certainly know how hard I have worked for you.” 27 “Please listen to me,” Laban replied. “I have become wealthy, for the Lord has blessed me because of you. 28 Tell me how much I owe you. Whatever it is, I’ll pay it.”

Genesis 30:29–43 NLTJacob replied, “You know how hard I’ve worked for you, and how your flocks and herds have grown under my care. 30 You had little indeed before I came, but your wealth has increased enormously. The Lord has blessed you through everything I’ve done. But now, what about me? When can I start providing for my own family?” 31 “What wages do you want?” Laban asked again. Jacob replied, “Don’t give me anything. Just do this one thing, and I’ll continue to tend and watch over your flocks. 32 Let me inspect your flocks today and remove all the sheep and goats that are speckled or spotted, along with all the black sheep. Give these to me as my wages. 33 In the future, when you check on the animals you have given me as my wages, you’ll see that I have been honest. If you find in my flock any goats without speckles or spots, or any sheep that are not black, you will know that I have stolen them from you.” 34 “All right,” Laban replied. “It will be as you say.” 35 But that very day Laban went out and removed the male goats that were streaked and spotted, all the female goats that were speckled and spotted or had white patches, and all the black sheep. He placed them in the care of his own sons, 36 who took them a three-days’ journey from where Jacob was. Meanwhile, Jacob stayed and cared for the rest of Laban’s flock. 37 Then Jacob took some fresh branches from poplar, almond, and plane trees and peeled off strips of bark, making white streaks on them. 38 Then he placed these peeled branches in the watering troughs where the flocks came to drink, for that was where they mated. 39 And when they mated in front of the white-streaked branches, they gave birth to young that were streaked, speckled, and spotted. 40 Jacob separated those lambs from Laban’s flock. And at mating time he turned the flock to face Laban’s animals that were streaked or black. This is how he built his own flock instead of increasing Laban’s. 241 Whenever the stronger females were ready to mate, Jacob would place the peeled branches in the watering troughs in front of them. Then they would mate in front of the branches. 42 But he didn’t do this with the weaker ones, so the weaker lambs belonged to Laban, and the stronger ones were Jacob’s. 43 As a result, Jacob became very wealthy, with large flocks of sheep and goats, female and male servants, and many camels and donkeys.

Genesis 31:1–13 NLTBut Jacob soon learned that Laban’s sons were grumbling about him. “Jacob has robbed our father of everything!” they said. “He has gained all his wealth at our father’s expense.” 2 And Jacob began to notice a change in Laban’s attitude toward him. 3 Then the Lord said to Jacob, “Return to the land of your father and grandfather and to your relatives there, and I will be with you.” 4 So Jacob called Rachel and Leah out to the field where he was watching his flock. 5 He said to them, “I have noticed that your father’s attitude toward me has changed. But the God of my father has been with me. 6 You know how hard I have worked for your father, 7 but he has cheated me, changing my wages ten times. But God has not allowed him to do me any harm. 8 For if he said, ‘The speckled animals will be your wages,’ the whole flock began to produce speckled young. And when he changed his mind and said, ‘The striped animals will be your wages,’ then the whole flock produced striped young. 9 In this way, God has taken your father’s animals and given them to me. 10 “One time during the mating season, I had a dream and saw that the male goats mating with the females were streaked, speckled, and spotted. 11 Then in my dream, the angel of God said to me, ‘Jacob!’ And I replied, ‘Yes, here I am.’ 12 “The angel said, ‘Look up, and you will see that only the streaked, speckled, and spotted males are mating with the females of your flock. For I have seen how Laban has treated you. 13 I am the God who appeared to you at Bethel, the place where you anointed the pillar of stone and made your vow to me. Now get ready and leave this country and return to the land of your birth.’ ”

2. PROTECTION – OUR SHIELDGenesis 31:28–29 NLTWhy didn’t you let me kiss my daughters and grandchildren and tell them good-bye? You have acted very foolishly! 29 I could destroy you, but the God of your father appeared to me last night and warned me, ‘Leave Jacob alone!’

Genesis 31:38 NLTFor twenty years I have been with you, caring for your flocks. In all that time your sheep and goats never miscarried. In all those years I never used a single ram of yours for food.

3. DESTINATION – FINISH YOUR COURSEGenesis 35:9–15 NLTNow that Jacob had returned from Paddan-aram, God appeared to him again at Bethel. God blessed him, 10 saying, “Your name is Jacob, but you will not be called Jacob any longer. From now on your name will be Israel.” So God renamed him Israel. 11 Then God said, “I am El-Shaddai—‘God Almighty.’ Be fruitful and multiply. You will become a great nation, even many nations. Kings will be among your descendants! 12 And I will give you the land I once gave to Abraham and Isaac. Yes, I will give it to you and your descendants after you.” 13 Then God went up from the place where he had spoken to Jacob. 14 Jacob set up a stone pillar to mark the place where God had spoken to him. Then he poured wine over it as an offering to God and anointed the pillar with olive oil. 15 And Jacob named the place Bethel (which means “house of God”), because God had spoken to him there.

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Genesis 14:18–24 NKJVThen Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; he was the priest of God Most High. 19 And he blessed him and said: “Blessed be Abram of God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth; 20 And blessed be God Most High, Who has delivered your enemies into your hand.” And he gave him a tithe of all. 21 Now the king of Sodom said to Abram, “Give me the persons, and take the goods for yourself.” 22 But Abram said to the king of Sodom, “I have raised my hand to the Lord, God Most High, the Possessor of heaven and earth, 23 that I will take nothing, from a thread to a sandal strap, and that I will not take anything that is yours, lest you should say, ‘I have made Abram rich’—24 except only what the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men who went with me: Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre; let them take their portion.”

Hebrews 7:1–8 NLTThis Melchizedek was king of the city of Salem and also a priest of God Most High. When Abraham was returning home after winning a great battle against the kings, Melchizedek met him and blessed him. 2 Then Abraham took a tenth of all he had captured in battle and gave it to Melchizedek. The name Melchizedek means “king of justice,” and king of Salem means “king of peace.” 3 There is no record of his father or mother or any of his ancestors—no beginning or end to his life. He remains a priest forever, resembling the Son of God. 4 Consider then how great this Melchizedek was. Even Abraham, the great patriarch of Israel, recognized this by giving him a tenth of what he had taken in battle. 5 Now the law of Moses required that the priests, who are descendants of Levi, must collect a tithe from the rest of the people of Israel, who are also descendants of Abraham. 6 But Melchizedek, who was not a descendant of Levi, collected a tenth from Abraham. And Melchizedek placed a blessing upon Abraham, the one who had already received the promises of God. 7 And without question, the person who has the power to give a blessing is greater than the one who is blessed. 8 The priests who collect tithes are men who die, so Melchizedek is greater than they are, because we are told that he lives on.

Hebrews 7:8 NKJVHere mortal men receive tithes, but there he receives them, of whom it is witnessed that he lives.

Malachi 3:10–11 NKJVBring all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house, And try Me now in this,” Says the Lord of hosts, 1“If I will not open for you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it. 11 “And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, So that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground, Nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field,” Says the Lord of hosts;

WE SEE THE WINDOWS OF HEAVEN MENTIONED THREE TIMES IN THE BIBLE.

Genesis 7:11 NKJVIn the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, on that day all the fountains of the great deep were broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened.

Psalm 78:23–29 NKJVYet He had commanded the clouds above, And opened the doors of heaven, 24 Had rained down manna on them to eat, And given them of the bread of heaven. 25 Men ate angels’ food; He sent them food to the full. 26 He caused an east wind to blow in the heavens; And by His power He brought in the south wind. 27 He also rained meat on them like the dust, Feathered fowl like the sand of the seas; 28 And He let them fall in the midst of their camp, All around their dwellings. 29 So they ate and were well filled,

Malachi 3:10–11 NKJVBring all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house, And try Me now in this,” Says the Lord of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it. 11 “And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, So that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground, Nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field,” Says the Lord of hosts;

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LAST WEEKRomans 8:14-16 NKJVFor as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

The Greek word led is agoAgo = describes one leading an animal such as a cow or goat. The owner would put a rope around its neck, then tug until the animal started to follow him When the animal decided to cooperate and follow that gentle tug, then he could be gently ” led”

Hebrews 4:12 AMPCFor the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.

TODAY’S MESSAGEJohn 4:21-24 NKJVJesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. 22 You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews. 23 But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”

1. MINISTER TO THE LORDActs 13:2-3 NKJVAs they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.

2. STILL YOUR HEARTThe Goal of all this is to still your heart

Psalm 4:4 KJVStand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still.

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John 10:1-5 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. 2 But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 Yet they will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.”

According to John 10, you know his voice!

Look at a few more

John 10:14 NIV “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—

John 10:27My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.

We need to begin to agree with his word he is leading m

Essentially we are taught more about the world that we are visiting in the world that we are from this natural world is more real to us

John 16:13-15However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. 14 He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. 15 All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you.

2 Corinthians 13:14
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.

John 14:16- NKJVAnd I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.

Romans 8:14-16For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

Psalm 68:19Blessed be the Lord, Who daily loads us with benefits,The God of our salvation!

Douay-Rheims BibleBlessed be the Lord day by day: the God of our salvation will make our journey prosperous to us.

Darby Bible TranslationBlessed be the Lord: day by day doth he load us with good, the God who is our salvation.

Psalm 16:7 I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.

Romans 8:14For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.

The Greek word led is agoAgo = describes one leading an animal such as a cow or goat. The owner would put a rope around its neck, then tug until the animal started to follow him

When the animal decided to cooperate and follow that gentle tug, then he could be gently ” led”

Where the owner wanted him to go

The Spirit of God will take us exactly where we need to go to reach our full potential in life!

Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

And lean not on your own understanding;

6 In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He shall direct your paths.

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What is a complaint?Say what you need to say, but know the difference between saying something negative that needs to be said and saying it over and over establishing it as a belief.

The truth is it is okay for everything to not be perfect… as long as you respond to it by going to God first.

Example: King Jehoshaphat

2 Chronicles 20:12 AMPC

12 O our God, will You not exercise judgment upon them? For we have no might to stand against this great company that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.

Complaining is SinPhilippians 2:14-15 NIV

14 Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky…

Example: The Israelites

1 Corinthians 10:9-10 AMPC

9 We should not tempt the Lord [try His patience, become a trial to Him, critically appraise Him, and exploit His goodness] as some of them did—and were killed by poisonous serpents;

10 Nor discontentedly complain as some of them did—and were [a]put out of the way entirely by the destroyer (death).

Numbers 21:4-7 AMPC

4 And they journeyed from Mount Hor by the way to the Red Sea, to go around the land of Edom, and the people became impatient (depressed, much discouraged), because [of the trials] of the way.

5 And the people spoke against God and against Moses, Why have you brought us out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no bread, neither is there any water, and we loathe this light (contemptible, unsubstantial) manna.

6 Then the Lord sent fiery (burning) serpents among the people; and they bit the people, and many Israelites died. 7 And the people came to Moses, and said, We have sinned, for we have spoken against the Lord and against you; pray to the Lord, that He may take away the serpents from us. So Moses prayed for the people.

When you’re so focused on what’s all wrong it tells us plainly there, you’re gonna get impatient, depressed, and discouraged.

God does not like complaining because it hurts us. It will quickly open the door to sickness and destruction.

Hebrews 10:31 KJV

It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

Numbers 14:34 NIV

For forty years—one year for each of the forty days you explored the land—you will suffer for your sins and know what it is like to have me against you.’

What would happen if we lived with the thinking that one day of complaining could send us into a full 365 days of bondage or staying stuck?

Philippians 4:11 NIV

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

Luke 3:14 NIV

14 “What should we do?” asked some soldiers.

He replied, “Don’t extort money or make false accusations. And be content with your pay.”

There are pros and cons to everything in life as long as we live.

Vision to ChangeDon’t bother praying about something if you’re going to complain about it

Don’t complain about something that you’re not willing to do anything about.

Habakkuk 2:1 ESV

I will take my stand at my watchpost
and station myself on the tower,
and look out to see what he will say to me,
and what I will answer concerning my complaint.

2 And the Lord answered me:

“Write the vision;
make it plain on tablets,
so he may run who reads it.

If you’ve got a complaint in your life, then get a vision about how you can fix it.

The Cure

James 5:9 ESV

Do not grumble against one anothe so that you may not be judged. The judge is standing at the door.

Hebrews 13:15 AMPC

Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name.

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Mark 4:26–29 NKJVAnd He said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, 27 and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. 28 For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. 29 But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.”

Mark 4:30–32 NKJVThen He said, “To what shall we liken the kingdom of God? Or with what parable shall we picture it? 31 It is like a mustard seed which, when it is sown on the ground, is smaller than all the seeds on earth; 32 but when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all herbs, and shoots out large branches, so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade The Kingdom Of God is a growing kingdom, it is like a seed, plant the seed of Gods Word and it will begin to grow!

SOIL MANAGEMENT

Mark 4:1–20 NKJVAnd again He began to teach by the sea. And a great multitude was gathered to Him, so that He got into a boat and sat in it on the sea; and the whole multitude was on the land facing the sea. 2 Then He taught them many things by parables, and said to them in His teaching: 3 “Listen! Behold, a sower went out to sow. 4 And it happened, as he sowed, that some seed fell by the wayside; and the birds of the air came and devoured it. 5 Some fell on stony ground, where it did not have much earth; and immediately it sprang up because it had no depth of earth. 6 But when the sun was up it was scorched, and because it had no root it withered away. 7 And some seed fell among thorns; and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no crop. 8 But other seed fell on good ground and yielded a crop that sprang up, increased and produced: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.” 9 And He said to them, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!” 10 But when He was alone, those around Him with the twelve asked Him about the parable. 11 And He said to them, “To you it has been given to knowthe mystery of the kingdom of God; but to those who are outside, all things come in parables, 12 so that‘Seeing they may see and not perceive, And hearing they may hear and not understand; Lest they should turn, And their sins be forgiven them.’ ”13 And He said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables?

SEEDS OF HEAVEN14 The sower sows the word.

WAYSIDE15 And these are the ones by the wayside where the word is sown. When they hear, Satan comes immediately and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts.

STONY GROUND16 These likewise are the ones sown on stony ground who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word’s sake, immediately they stumble.

THORNS18 Now these are the ones sown among thorns; they are the ones who hear the word, 19 and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful.

GOOD GROUND20 But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept it, and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.”

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1 John 4:17-19 NIVThis is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. 18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

Genesis 3:8–11 NKJVAnd they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. 9 Then the Lord God called to Adam and said to him, “Where are you?” 10 So he said, “I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself.” 11 And He said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you that you should not eat?”

1. YOU CAN ALWAYS RUN TO GODHebrews 4:15-16 NKJVFor we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

2. GODS LOVE IS NOT PERFORMANCE BASEDRomans 5:8 NIVBut God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

John 1:29 NKJVThe next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!

3.I KNOW HE’S WITH MEPsalm 23 NKJVYea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 91:1-5 NKJV1He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.” 3 Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler And from the perilous pestilence. 4 He shall cover you with His feathers, And under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler. 5 You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, Nor of the arrow that flies by day….

Hebrews 13:5-6Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper;I will not fear. What can man do to me?”

Daniel 3:16 NKJV16 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”

Jump down to Verse 2424 Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, “Weren’t there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?” They replied, “Certainly, Your Majesty.” 25 He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.”

Philippians 1:9–11 NKJVAnd this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, 10 that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, 11 being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

Ephesians 3:16–21 NKJVthat He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height—19 to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

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Matthew 6:9-13In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. 10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. 11Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. 13 And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. 14 “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

1. FORGIVEMatthew 18:21-35Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. 23 Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24 And when he had begun to settle accounts, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. 25 But as he was not able to pay, his master commanded that he be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and that payment be made. 26 The servant therefore fell down before him, saying, ‘Master, have patience with me, and I will pay you all.’ 27 Then the master of that servant was moved with compassion, released him, and forgave him the debt. 28 “But that servant went out and found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and he laid hands on him and took him by the throat, saying, ‘Pay me what you owe!’ 29 So his fellow servant fell down at his feet and begged him, saying, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you all.’30 And he would not, but went and threw him into prison till he should pay the debt. 31 So when his fellow servants saw what had been done, they were very grieved, and came and told their master all that had been done. 32 Then his master, after he had called him, said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you begged me. 33 Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?’ 34 And his master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him. 35 “So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses.”

2. JUDGE NOTLuke 6:37–38 NKJV “Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38 Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”

Luke 18:9–14 NLTThen Jesus told this story to some who had great confidence in their own righteousness and scorned everyone else: 10 “Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not like other people—cheaters, sinners, adulterers. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! 12 I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.’ 13 “But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’ 14 I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

1 Peter 3:7–12 NKJVHusbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered. 8 Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; 9 not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing. 10 For “He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit. 11 Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

Mark 11:23-26For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. 25 “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. 26 But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.”

3. FAITH WORKS BY LOVEGalatians 5:6 AMPC6 For [if we are] in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith activated and energized and expressed and working through love.

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God is Merciful

Lamentations 3:22-23 AMPC
22 It is because of the Lord’s mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness.

Psalm 136 tells us twenty-six times that the Lord is good and His mercy endures forever.

1 John 1:9 KV
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

We need to learn to receive God’s mercy and then be merciful to others.

The to you and through you principle

• God will never expect you to forgive somebody else for more than He’s already forgiven you for. Anything God gives to us, He then expects to go through us.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 AMPC
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of sympathy (pity and mercy) and the God [Who is the Source] of every comfort (consolation and encouragement), 4 Who comforts (consoles and encourages) us in every trouble (calamity and affliction), so that we may also be able to comfort (console and encourage) those who are in any kind of trouble or distress, with the comfort (consolation and encouragement) with which we ourselves are comforted (consoled and encouraged) by God.

God is the Father of mercy.

All comfort is from God even if it comes through a person.

Legalism vs God’s Mercy

Matthew 12:1-7 AMPC1 At that [a]particular time Jesus went through the fields of standing grain on the Sabbath; and His disciples were hungry, and they began to pick off the spikes of grain and to eat. 2 And when the Pharisees saw it, they said to Him, See there! Your disciples are doing what is unlawful and not permitted on the Sabbath. 3 He said to them, Have you not even read what David did when he was hungry, and those who accompanied him— 4 How he went into the house of God and ate the loaves of the showbread—which was not lawful for him to eat, nor for the men who accompanied him, but for the priests only? 6 But I tell you, Something greater and [b]more exalted and more majestic than the temple is here! 7 And if you had only known what this saying means, I desire mercy [readiness to help, to spare, to forgive] rather than sacrifice and sacrificial victims — The mercy of God is always extending a welcome invitation to us to come and receive whatever we need from God even though we do not deserve it. When the Bible says don’t judge, it does not mean don’t recognize or deal with sin. It does mean don’t judge the person.

Matthew 7:1-2 AMPC
1 Do not judge and criticize and condemn others, so that you may not be judged and criticized and condemned yourselves. 2 For just as you judge and criticize and condemn others, you will be judged and criticized and condemned, and in accordance with the measure you [use to] deal out to others, it will be dealt out again to you. Don’t have an opinion where you don’t have a responsibility. You won’t stand before God for anyone else. If we sow judgment, we will reap judgment.

1 Samuel 16:7 ESVBut the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

Hebrews 5:2 AMPC
He is able to exercise gentleness and forbearance toward the ignorant and erring, since he himself also is liable to moral weakness and physical infirmity.

James 2:13 GNTFor God will not show mercy when he judges the person who has not been merciful; but mercy triumphs over judgment.

Mercy is greater than judgment.

We should not be judging other people.

We should not be concerned with someone else’s judgment of us.

“If someone were to tell a lie about me, I wouldn’t even take the time to deny it. I’d just keep walking down the street and say, ‘Praise the Lord.’” – Kenneth E. Hagin

Receiving mercy and extending mercy will bring you peace with yourself, peace with God, and peace with others.

1 Peter 3:10-11 AMPC10 For let him who wants to enjoy life and see good days [good—whether apparent or not] keep his tongue free from evil and his lips from guile (treachery, deceit). 11 Let him turn away from wickedness and shun it, and let him do right. Let him search for peace (harmony; undisturbedness from fears, agitating passions, and moral conflicts) and seek it eagerly. [Do not merely desire peaceful relations with God, with your fellowmen, and with yourself, but pursue, go after them!

You have to go after that peace by making changes according to God’s word! Learn to accept yourself and enjoy where you are at on the way to where you are going.

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1 Samuel 17:1–11 NKJVNow the Philistines gathered their armies together to battle, and were gathered at Sochoh, which belongs to Judah; they encamped between Sochoh and Azekah, in Ephes Dammim. 2 And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and they encamped in the Valley of Elah, and drew up in battle array against the Philistines. 3 The Philistines stood on a mountain on one side, and Israel stood on a mountain on the other side, with a valley between them. 4 And a champion went out from the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, from Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span. 5 He had a bronze helmet on his head, and he was armed with a coat of mail, and the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of bronze. 6 And he had bronze armor on his legs and a bronze javelin between his shoulders. 7 Now the staff of his spear was like a weaver’s beam, and his iron spearhead weighed six hundred shekels; and a shield-bearer went before him. 8 Then he stood and cried out to the armies of Israel, and said to them, “Why have you come out to line up for battle? Am I not a Philistine, and you the servants of Saul? Choose a man for yourselves, and let him come down to me. 9 If he is able to fight with me and kill me, then we will be your servants. But if I prevail against him and kill him, then you shall be our servants and serve us.” 10 And the Philistine said, “I defy the armies of Israel this day; give me a man, that we may fight together.” 11 When Saul and all Israel heard these words of the Philistine, they were dismayed and greatly afraid.

Dismayed-To be shattered, be broken, be abolished, be afraid, be scared terrified.

Matthew 16:19 NKJVAnd I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

YOU BIND IT, HEAVEN BACKS IT!

Mark 3:22–27 NKJVAnd the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He has Beelzebub,” and, “By the ruler of the demons He casts out demons.” 23 So He called them to Himself and said to them in parables: “How can Satan cast out Satan? 24 If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25 And if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. 26 And if Satan has risen up against himself, and is divided, he cannot stand, but has an end. 27 No one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. And then he will plunder his house.

IS THERE NOT A CAUSE?

11 Samuel 17:29–30 NKJVAnd David said, “What have I done now? Is there not a cause?” 30 Then he turned from him toward another and said the same thing; and these people answered him as the first ones did.

DAVID KNEW THE OUTCOME OF THE BATTLE

Colossians 2:14–15 NKJVhaving wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. 15 Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.

Matthew 16:19 NKJVAnd I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

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It’s By His Spirit

1 Corinthians 2:9–12 NKJV

But as it is written:

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”

10 But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God (Kingdom) except the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.

Ephesians 2:18 NKJV

For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.

2 Samuel 9:3–4 NKJV

Then the king said, “Is there not still someone of the house of Saul, to whom I may show the kindness of God?” And Ziba said to the king, “There is still a son of Jonathan who is lame in his feet.” 4 So the king said to him, “Where is he?” And Ziba said to the king, “Indeed he is in the house of Machir the son of Ammiel, in Lo Debar.”

Lo-debar = “not a pasture” Debar was a place literally without a pasture, barren, fruitless, and destitute.

2 Samuel 9:5–10 NKJV

Then King David sent and brought him out of the house of Machir the son of Ammiel, from Lo Debar.

6 Now when Mephibosheth the son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, had come to David, he fell on his face and prostrated himself. Then David said, “Mephibosheth?” And he answered, “Here is your servant!”

7 So David said to him, “Do not fear, for I will surely show you kindness for Jonathan your father’s sake, and will restore to you all the land of Saul your grandfather; and you shall eat bread at my table continually.”

8 Then he bowed himself, and said, “What is your servant, that you should look upon such a dead dog as I?” 9 And the king called to Ziba, Saul’s servant, and said to him, “I have given to your master’s son all that belonged to Saul and to all his house. 10 You therefore, and your sons and your servants, shall work the land for him, and you shall bring in the harvest, that your master’s son may have food to eat. But Mephibosheth your master’s son shall eat bread at my table always.” Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.

The name Mephibosheth means “exterminator of shame.”

2 Samuel 9:11–13 NKJV

“As for Mephibosheth,” said the king, “he shall eat at my table like one of the king’s sons.” 12 Mephibosheth had a young son whose name was Micha. And all who dwelt in the house of Ziba were servants of Mephibosheth. 13 So Mephibosheth dwelt in Jerusalem, for he ate continually at the king’s table. And he was lame in both his feet.

John 16:13–15 NKJV

However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. 14 He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. 15 All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you.

Proverbs 13:20 NKJV

He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will be destroyed.

Proverbs 22:24–25 NKJV

Make no friendship with an angry man, And with a furious man do not go, 25 Lest you learn his ways And set a snare for your soul.

John 14:16–17 NKJV

And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.

John 10:4–5 NKJV

And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 Yet they will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.”

Psalm 119:103–104 NKJV

How sweet are Your words to my taste, Sweeter than honey to my mouth! 104 Through Your precepts I get understanding; Therefore I hate every false way.

2 Samuel 9:13 NKJV

So Mephibosheth dwelt in Jerusalem, for he ate continually at the king’s table. And he was lame in both his feet.

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Proverbs 3:5–6 NKJVTrust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

Trust Hebrew bāṭaḥTrust means to lay down upon, to be secure, to feel safe, be careless, To have confidence.

Psalm 117:1–2 NKJVPraise the Lord, all you Gentiles! Laud Him, all you peoples! 2 For His merciful kindness is great toward us, And the truth of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord!

Psalm 118:8–9 NKJVIt is better to trust in the Lord Than to put confidence in man. 9 It is better to trust in the Lord Than to put confidence in princes.

Jeremiah 17:7–8 NLT“But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. 8 They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit.

James 1:5 NKJVIf any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without
reproach, and it will be given to him.

Psalm 16:5 GNT (Good News Translation)
“You, LORD, are all I have, and you give me all I need; my future is in your hands.”

Isaiah 54:13 NKJVAll your children shall be taught by the Lord, And great shall be the peace of your children.

1 John 5:14–15 NKJVNow this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

Romans 2:4 NIV…that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?

Psalm 40:4 NKJVBlessed is that man who makes the Lord his trust,

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Romans 14:17 NKJVFor the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

NO CORRUPT WORDEphesians 4:28–30 NKJVneed. 29 Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.

Philippians 2:14–15 NKJVDo all things without complaining and disputing, 15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,

1 Corinthians 10:10 NKJVnor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer.

1 Peter 4:9 NKJVBe hospitable to one another without grumbling.

WHO’S IN CONTROL?John 3:6-8That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, effects of the Wind You see the leaves blowing

SET YOUR MINDRomans 8:5–8 NKJVFor those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.

Psalm 77:3 BSTI remembered God, and rejoiced; I poured out my complaint, and my soul fainted.

Matthew 12:36–37 NKJVBut I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. 37 For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”

Isaiah 41:10Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you,

1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 NKJVRejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Isaiah 1:19 NKJVIf you are willing and obedient, You shall eat the good of the land;

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Kingdom is a governing influence of a king over His territory. Impacting it with his Will his purpose and his intentions. producing a citizenry of people who express His culture and reflect His nature.

Kingdom in the Greek is basileia

A kingdom, the territory subject to the rule of a king. Used in the N.T. to refer to the reign of the Messiah.

• Royal power, kingship, dominion, rule.
• The right or authority to rule over a kingdom.
• The royal power and dignity conferred on Christians in the Messiah’s kingdom

BACK TO THE ORIGINAL

John 8:12 NKJV12Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”

Light – knowledge, InsightJesus is saying I am the light of the systems…

Darkness – Hebrew Word for ignoranceSatan is the prince of darkness

Prince – means Ruler

Matthew 25:33–35 NKJVAnd He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.

Matthew 4:16–17 NKJVThe people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, And upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death Light has dawned.” 17 From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Repent means – ChangeTo change the way you’ve been trained to think. To change your mind, to change your mentality.

Romans 12:2 NKJVAnd do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Malachi 3:6–7 NKJVFor I am the Lord, I do not change; Therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob. 7 Yet from the days of your fathers You have gone away from My ordinances And have not kept them. Return to Me, and I will return to you,” Says the Lord of hosts. “But you said, ‘In what way shall we return?’

THE PREFIXES OF GODa word, letter, or number placed before another – an element placed at the beginning of a word to adjust or qualify its meaning.

A Prefix is a stem that you add to a Word to change the meaning of it.

Gods number one Prefix is RE…

Re =to go back, to return to the original state or position.
Every time you see a word that starts with a RE it’s talking about going backwards. To go back to the original position or state.

Matthew 6:9–10 NKJVIn this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. 10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven.

Return come back to where you used to be

Restore you will get back what you lost.

Receive– get back what you had. You used to have the Holy Spirit you lost Him that is why Christ said Receive the Holy Spirit.

Acts 2:38 NKJVAnd Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

Isaiah 40:29–31 NKJVHe gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. 30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, 31 But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.

Galatians 3:13–14 NKJVChrist has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

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Life Without StrifeStrife is the enemy’s weapon of choice in today’s world. If we haven’t renewed our minds enough to the word, we will go along with it.

Romans 12:21 NIV
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

We have to understand the severity of strife.
It kills, steals, and destroys.
It also grieves the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 4:29-31 AMPC29 Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word nor unwholesome or worthless talk [ever] come out of your mouth, but only such [speech] as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God’s favor) to those who hear it. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God [do not offend or vex or sadden Him], by Whom you were sealed (marked, branded as God’s own, secured) for the day of redemption (of final deliverance through Christ from evil and the consequences of sin). 31 Let all bitterness and indignation and wrath (passion, rage, bad temper) and resentment (anger, animosity) and quarreling (brawling, clamor, contention) and slander (evil-speaking, abusive or blasphemous language) be banished from you, with all malice (spite, ill will, or baseness of any kind).

We have to magnify our oneness and not our differences.

Unity is key to the anointing.

Psalm 133:1-3 AMPC1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! 2 It is like the precious ointment poured on the head, that ran down on the beard, even the beard of Aaron [the first high priest], that came down upon the collar and skirts of his garments [consecrating the whole body]. 3 It is like the dew of [lofty] Mount Hermon and the dew that comes on the hills of Zion; for there the Lord has commanded the blessing, even life forevermore [upon the high and the lowly].

Unity requires humility which can be difficult to develop but is extremely rewarding.

Genesis 13:1-2, 5-9, 14-17 AMPC
So Abram went up out of Egypt, he and his wife and all that he had, and Lot with him, into the South [country of Judah, the Negeb]. 2 Now Abram was extremely rich in livestock and in silver and in gold. 5 But Lot, who went with Abram, also had flocks and herds and tents. 6 Now the land was not able to nourish and support them so they could dwell together, for their possessions were too great for them to live together. 7 And there was strife between the herdsmen of Abram’s cattle and the herdsmen of Lot’s cattle. And the Canaanite and the Perizzite were dwelling then in the land [making fodder more difficult to obtain]. 8 So Abram said to Lot, Let there be no strife, I beg of you, between you and me, or between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are relatives. 9 Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself, I beg of you, from me. If you take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if you choose the right hand, then I will go to the left. 14 The Lord said to Abram after Lot had left him, Lift up now your eyes and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward; 15 For all the land which you see I will give to you and to your posterity forever. 16 And I will make your descendants like the dust of the earth, so that if a man could count the dust of the earth, then could your descendants also be counted. 17 Arise, walk through the land, the length of it and the breadth of it, for I will give it to you.

Abraham did two things:

• He took the first step to make peace
• He took an unfair position to keep peace

God rewarded him richly for it.

Strife begins in our thoughts

1 Corinthians 13:7 AMPC
Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person,

1 Peter 4:15 KJV
But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters.

Notice being a busybody is listed alongside being a murderer.

2 Timothy 2:23 AMPC
But refuse (shut your mind against, have nothing to do with) trifling (ill-informed, unedifying, stupid) controversies over ignorant questionings, for you know that they foster strife and breed quarrels.

Galatians 5:15 AMPC
15 But if you bite and devour one another [in partisan strife], be careful that you [and your whole fellowship] are not consumed by one another.

Notice the words: bite, devour, consume. We should be actively harming the kingdom of darkness with good instead of harming the body of Christ with evil.

Philippians 2:3-4 NIV
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Philippians 2:3-4 NLT
Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

Get on the proactive side and be a blessing to someone else.

Galatians 5:6 KJV
For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.

All the little differences between us and others don’t matter. What matters is you living by faith and you walking in love. The two things I want everyone to take from this message is

1. Be quick to repent
2. Be quick to forgive

God commands the blessing upon those who live in peace.

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Isaiah 9:6–7 NKJVFor unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.Kingdom in the Greek is basileia1. Royal power, kingship, dominion, rule 1. The right or authority to rule over a kingdom 2. Of the royal power of Jesus as the triumphant Messiah 3. Of the royal power and dignity conferred on Christians in the Messiah’s kingdom 2. A kingdom, the territory subject to the rule of a king 3. Used in the N.T. to refer to the reign of the Messiah

The Kingdom is not:* Religion * Not a Democracy * Not a Republic.

A Kingdom is the governing influence of a king over his territory, Impacting it with his will, his purpose and his intentions. producing a citizenry of people who express his culture and reflect his nature.Matthew 3:1–3 NKJVIn those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; Make His paths straight.’ ”Matthew 4:17 NKJVFrom that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”The Gospels contain seventy-six different kingdom sayings of Jesus. The King is the embodiment of the kingdom, representing its glory and nature. Authority flows from the king and the word of the king is supreme. The Territory is the domain over which the king exercises total authority. The territory and its resources and people are all personal property of the king. The king by right owns all and, therefore, is considered lord over all. The word Lord denotes ownership by right. Lord is only given to one who is sovereign owner. This is why the Scriptures declare, The earth is the LordsPsalm 24: I KJVThe earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.WHAT IS GODS PRIORITY?Matthew 6:24–34 NKJVNo one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. 25 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? 28 “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.SEEK THE GOVERNMENT OF GOD FIRSTThe post Kingdom Life first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Luke 4:16–22 NKJV

So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. 17 And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written: 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; 19 To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” 20 Then He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him. 21 And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.

THE OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

Freedom

Liberty – Deliverance

1. release from bondage or imprisonment
2. forgiveness or pardon, of sins (letting them go as if they had never been committed), remission of the penalty

Romans 4:25 NLT

He was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised to life to make us right with God.

Hebrews 2:14–15 NLT

Because God’s children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. 15 Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.

1 John 3:8 NKJV

For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.

1 Corinthians 2:8 NKJV

which none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

FREEDOM

Acts 16:24–26 NKJV

Having received such a charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. 25 But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed.

Ephesians 4:8 AMP

Therefore it is said, When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive [He led a train of vanquished foes] and He bestowed gifts on men. Matthew Henry, Commentary on the Holy Bible: “He conquered those who had conquered us—such as sin, the devil, and death.”

Exodus 12:11,13 NLT

“These are your instructions for eating this meal: Be fully dressed, wear your sandals, and carry your walking stick in your hand. Eat the meal with urgency, for this is the Lord’s Passover. 13 But the blood on your doorposts will serve as a sign, marking the houses where you are staying. When I see the blood, I will pass over you. This plague of death will not touch you when I strike the land of Egypt.

Psalm 105:37 NKJV

He also brought them out with silver and gold, And there was none feeble among His tribes.

DEATH COULD NOT HOLD HIM

Acts 2:22–24 NKJV

Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know—23 Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; 24 whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it.

John 8:32 NKJV

And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

John 8:36 NKJV

Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.

Matthew 27:63–66 NKJV

saying, “Sir, we remember, while He was still alive, how that deceiver said, ‘After three days I will rise.’ 64 Therefore command that the tomb be made secure until the third day, lest His disciples come by night and steal Him away, and say to the people, ‘He has risen from the dead.’ So the last deception will be worse than the first.” 65 Pilate said to them, “You have a guard; go your way, make it as secure as you know how.” 66 So they went and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone and setting the guard.

Altar Call

John 3:14–17 NKJV

And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

Roman’s 10:9-13 NKJV

that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. 13 For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

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Matthew 21:1–9 NLT

As Jesus and the disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the town of Bethphage on the Mount of Olives. Jesus sent two of them on ahead. 2 “Go into the village over there,” he said. “As soon as you enter it, you will see a donkey tied there, with its colt beside it. Untie them and bring them to me. 3 If anyone asks what you are doing, just say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will immediately let you take them.” 4 This took place to fulfill the prophecy that said, 5 “Tell the people of Jerusalem, ‘Look, your King is coming to you. He is humble, riding on a donkey— riding on a donkey’s colt.’ ” 6 The two disciples did as Jesus commanded. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt to him and threw their garments over the colt, and he sat on it. 8 Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road ahead of him, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around him were shouting, “Praise God for the Son of David! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Praise God in highest heaven!”

THE DONKEY

Jesus’s chosen means of transportation during his triumphal entry into Jerusalem was a fulfillment of prophecy.

Zechariah 9:9 NKJV

“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, Lowly and riding on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey.

Revelation 19:11 NKJV

Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war.

PALM BRANCHES

Date palms are majestic, tall trees that grow abundantly in the Holy Land. In Bible times, the finest specimens grew at Jericho. In ancient times, palm branches symbolized

• Goodness
• Well-Being
• Grandeur
• Steadfastness
• Victory

Palm branches were regarded as tokens of joy and triumph and were customarily used on festive occasions

Revelation 7:9–10 NKJV

After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, 10 and crying out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”

HOSANNA IN THE HIGHEST

The same people that cried out “Hosanna” on Sunday Cried out “crucify Him” on Friday.

John 18:36 NLT

Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world.”

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Matthew 11:28–30 NKJVCome to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

COME

Come – Greek word deute,

This is a greeting that literally means, “Come — come now! I am inviting you to come!” In Greek, it has the feeling of an exclamation,

labour – Greek word kopaio,

A person who has become completely exhausted due to nonstop, continuous work.

1 Peter 5:7–9 NKJVcasting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith…

TRUE REST

I WILL GIVE YOU REST

To anyone who responds to this invitation and comes to Jesus, He promises that He will give them “rest.” The word “rest” is the Greek word anapauo, the word that means to refresh, to rejuvenate, to reinvigorate, or to revitalize He wants us to be refilled so we can remain effective.

Jeremiah 31:25 AMPFor I will [fully] satisfy the weary soul, and I will replenish every languishing and sorrowful person.

Isaiah 40:29–31 NKJVHe gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. 30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, 31 But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.

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2 Peter 1:1–5 NKJVSimon Peter, a bondservant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ: 2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, 3 as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, 4 by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, 7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.

GODLINESSGodliness Greek – eusebeia

Reverence, respect toward God:A lifestyle that constantly reflects the character of God affection, dependence, submission, gratitude, and obedience to God.”

it denotes the substance of revealed religion.
Respect for God that affects the way a person lives.

2 Peter 1:7 NKJVto godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.

BROTHERLY KINDNESSGreek – philadelphia1. love of brothers or sisters, brotherly love
2. in the NT the love which Christians cherish for each other as brethren

fraternal affection:—brotherly love (kindness), love of the brethren.

Psalm 16:3 NKJVAs for the saints who are on the earth, “They are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.”

2 Peter 1:7 NKJVTo godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.

LOVEGreek – Agapeit’s a sacrificial, unconditional love that originates from God. A love that never fails never comes to an end, and it’s never obsolete.The Greek word agape describes a divine love that gives and gives, even if it’s never responded to, thanked, or acknowledged. This lets us know that God’s agape love has no strings attached to it, and it can never be offended. God’s agape love occurs when an individual sees, recognizes, understands, or appreciates the value of an object or a person.

Matthew 24:12–14 NKJVAnd because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.

John 15:9–10 NKJV“As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. 10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.

Acts 2:40–47 NKJVAnd with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.” 41 Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. 42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. 44 Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, 45 and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. 46 So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

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Mark 16:15And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.

Matthew 28:18–20 NKJVGo therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Go ye Greek- poreuō1. to lead over, carry over, transfer
2. to pursue the journey on which one has entered, to continue on one’s journey
3. to follow one, that is: become his follower

WE BELIEVE“Each person has a unique calling and purpose for being here on this earth. Our goal is to help them recognize who they are and what they are called to do. Giving them the tools from the Word of God to not just start their race, but to finish their course!”

2 Corinthians 5:14-20 NKJVFor the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; 15 and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again. 16 Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.

WHAT IS IS?One Covenant Step! Is Covenant Life’s initiative to fulfill the Great Commission corporately and individually. We are asking each person in the Body to take one small step to reach out to a lost person or family over the next 12 months. Our purpose is to see you share the Gospel, commit to befriend, mentor, and disciple that individual so that they can fully live out the life Christ promised.

OUR OPPORTUNITIES

• INDIVIDUALS

Family, Friends, Neighbors, Co-Workers

• ORGANIZATIONS

Nursing Homes, Cancer Centers, Etc

• LOCAL COMMUNITY, SCHOOLS

Initiate Trust by Serving at the Elementary Level

Romans 10:1 NKJV

Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved.

Luke 19:10 NKJV

for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

How Are We Going To Do This?

1. Steering Team Selection is Complete
2. Steering Team sets criteria for approved Outreach programs: 3/1/2024
3. Steerng Team begins receiving applications for Support: 3/4/2024
4. Vetted programs submitted to Pastor: 3/15/2024
5. Evangelism Training reviewed and selected by Pastor: 3/15/2024
6. Outreach Rally Day: 3/31/2024
7. Covenant Card Commitments: 3/31/2024

Call To Action!Are you willing to agree to a covenant to reach one lost Soul and disciple them over the next 12 months? Will you sign a pledge card?

Results!Over 100 salvations helping them recognize who they are and what they are called to do. Giving them the tools from the Word of God to not just start their race, but to finish their course!”

Mark 4:30-32“And he said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.””

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2 Peter 1:5-6 KJV5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; 6 And to knowledge temperance (we typically call that self control which Pastor David taught on last week, but after that it says ; and to temperance add everyone’s favorite word…. patience;

Galatians 5:22-24 NKJV22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 [g]gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. God gives us the ability to do anything He asks us to do, but it isn’t going to happen on accident. We have to do it on purpose.

Four areas to be patient in:1. Be patient with GodGod is preparing you for the things He has prepared for you.
Psalm 31:15 NKJV“My times are in Your hands…” 2. Be patient with peopleAccording to the Vine’s Bible Dictionary, patience is a fruit of the spirit that only grows under trial.
James 1:4 AMPC4 But let endurance and steadfastness and patience have full play and do a thorough work, so that you may be [people] perfectly and fully developed [with no defects], lacking in nothing.
God puts us with people that irritate us on purpose.
If we’re going to represent the Lord, we must develop a patient spirit towards people. 3. Be patient with yourselfGod knew what He was getting when He got you.
Learn to enjoy where you’re at on the way to where you’re going. 4. Be patient with things

Works of the Flesh:My bright ideas on how to get what I want in my timing instead of waiting on God.

Genesis 16 – Sarah and Hagar

Nothing works unless it originates with God.

God isn’t asking us to do anything but believe, and then when you do get an instruction, obey.

Enjoy Your Life

John 10:10 AMPC10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).

If you can’t enjoy your life now, you’ll never enjoy it if you do get what you want.

An Attitude of Expectancy

Set your attitude everyday.

Ephesians 4:23-24 AMPC23 And be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh mental and spiritual attitude], 24 And put on the new nature (the regenerate self) created in God’s image, [Godlike] in true righteousness and holiness.

James 5:7 AMPC7 So be patient, brethren, [as you wait] till the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits expectantly for the precious harvest from the land. [See how] he keeps up his patient [vigil] over it until it receives the early and late rains.

Stir yourself up.

If you live with expectancy good things will happen in your life.
I expect something good is going to happen to me today, and something good is going to happen through me today.

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2 Peter 1:5–9 NKJVBut also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, 7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. 8 For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins.

1 Thessalonians 5:23–24 NKJVNow may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.

Temperance greek – egkrateia

Temperance Greek word Enkratea

Compound word

En – Greek word for in.

Keratos- Greek word for Power

In power

Power over one’s self

Proverbs 16:32 NIVBetter a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.

James 3:2–5 NKJVFor we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. 3 Indeed, we put bits in horses’ mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body. 4 Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. 5 Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things.

1 Corinthians 9:24–27 NKJVDo you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. 26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. 27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.

Philippians 3:8–9 NLTFor his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ 9 and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith.

Galatians 5:16–17 NIVSo I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.

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Habakkuk 2:2–3 NKJVThen the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. 3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry. Psalm 139:14–17 NKJVI will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well. 15 My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. 16 Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them. 17 How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them!Ask Matthew 7:7–8 NKJVAsk, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Matthew 6:9–10 NKJVOur Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. 10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Habakkuk 2:1 NKJVI will stand my watch And set myself on the rampart, And watch to see what He will say to me, And what I will answer when I am corrected. Habakkuk 2:1 NASBI will stand at my guard post And station myself on the watchtower; And I will keep watch to see what He will say to me… Ephesians 5:17–20 NKJVTherefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, 20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,Fasting Acts 27:20–25 NKJVNow when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up. 21 But after long abstinence from food, then Paul stood in the midst of them and said, “Men, you should have listened to me, and not have sailed from Crete and incurred this disaster and loss. 22 And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. 23 For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, 24 saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.’ 25 Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me. 2 Corinthians 11:26–27 NKJVin journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; 27 in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness—Forget The Past Philippians 3:13–14 NKJVBrethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.The post The Master’s Plan first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Habakkuk 2:2–3 NKJVThen the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. 3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry. Genesis 28:15–22 NKJVBehold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have spoken to you.”
16 Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.” 17 And he was afraid and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven!”
18 Then Jacob rose early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put at his head, set it up as a pillar, and poured oil on top of it. 19 And he called the name of that place Bethel; but the name of that city had been Luz previously. 20 Then Jacob made a vow, saying,
“If God will be with me, and keep me in this way that I am going, and give me bread to eat and clothing to put on, 21 so that I come back to my father’s house in peace, then the Lord shall be my God. 22 And this stone which I have set as a pillar shall be God’s house, and of all that You give me I will surely give a tenth to You.”1. CAST THE VISION Genesis 30:37–39 NKJVNow Jacob took for himself rods of green poplar and of the almond and chestnut trees, peeled white strips in them, and exposed the white which was in the rods. 38 And the rods which he had peeled, he set before the flocks in the gutters, in the watering troughs where the flocks came to drink, so that they should conceive when they came to drink. 39 So the flocks conceived before the rods, and the flocks brought forth streaked, speckled, and spotted.It has long been an opinion that whatever makes a strong impression on the mind of a female in the time of conception and gestation, will have a corresponding influence on the mind or body of the fetus. Proverbs 4:20-23My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. 21 Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; 22 For they are life to those who find them, And health to all their flesh. 23 Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.2. NEVER PUT VISION TO A SICK, WEAK, POOR THING Genesis 30:41-43 NKJVAnd it came to pass, whenever the stronger livestock conceived, that Jacob placed the rods before the eyes of the livestock in the gutters, that they might conceive among the rods. 42 But when the flocks were feeble, he did not put them in; so the feebler were Laban’s and the stronger Jacob’s. 43 Thus the man became exceedingly prosperous, and had large flocks, female and male servants, and camels and donkeys.He only placed the vision before the Strong. We need to use his example in our lives stop focusing on the things that are not productive to our future. Numbers 13:31–33 NKJVBut the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we.” 32 And they gave the children of Israel a bad report of the land which they had spied out, saying, “The land through which we have gone as spies is a land that devours its inhabitants, and all the people whom we saw in it are men of great stature. 33 There we saw the giants (the descendants of Anak came from the giants); and we were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight.” Genesis 31:10-13“And it happened, at the time when the flocks conceived, that I lifted my eyes and saw in a dream, and behold, the rams which leaped upon the flocks were streaked, speckled, and gray-spotted. 11 Then the Angel of God spoke to me in a dream, saying, ‘Jacob.’ And I said, ‘Here I am.’ 12 And He said, ‘Lift your eyes now and see, all the rams which leap on the flocks are streaked, speckled, and gray-spotted; for I have seen all that Laban is doing to you. 13 I am the God of Bethel, where you anointed the pillar and where you made a vow to Me. Now arise, get out of this land, and return to the land of your family.'”The post Seeing Spots first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Ephesians 2:10 NKJV For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. Jeremiah 29:11 NLT For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and […]

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Acts 27:20 NLT The terrible storm raged for many days, blotting out the sun and the stars, until at last all hope was gone. 1. CREATED TO HOPE Proverbs 13:12 NKJV Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But when the desire comes, it is a tree of life. Proverbs 29:18 KJV Where there is no […]

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Matthew 16:18–19 NKJV And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in […]

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Philippians 3:10 AMP For my determined purpose is that I may know Him that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly, and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from […]

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Philippians 3:7 NKJV But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. Philippians 3:10 AMP For my determined purpose is that I may know Him that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly […]

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Proverbs 13:12 NKJV Hope deferred makes the heart sick Matthew 11:12 NKJV From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force Romans 3:27 NKJV Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? Of works? No, but by the law of […]

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CULTURE STATEMENT – REACHING PEOPLE We are empowered by the Holy Spirit to reach others for Christ. When people experience Him, lives are changed, families are transformed, and communities thrive. We are going after the precious fruit of the earth, ensuring that no one in our life is left unreached. 1. OFFICIAL SPOKESMAN Mark 16:15–16 […]

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Mark 16:15 NLT And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone. 1. JESUS IS THE LIGHT Genesis 1:3–4 NKJV Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. 4 And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from […]

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Culture Statement – Reaching People We are empowered by the Holy Spirit to reach others for Christ. When people experience Him, lives are changed, families are transformed, and communities thrive. We are going after the precious fruit of the earth, ensuring that no one in our life is left unreached. Romans 10:8–15 NKJV But what […]

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We are Reaching People We are empowered by the Holy Spirit to reach others for Christ. When people experience Him, lives are changed, families are transformed, and communities thrive. We are going after the precious fruit of the earth, ensuring that no one in our life is left unreached. Mark 16:15 KJV And he said […]

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CULTUREThe set of shared attitudes, values, goals, behaviors and practices that characterizes an institution or organization.
– It’s key that individuals and leaders are able to learn and transmit this knowledge to succeeding generations.WE ARE ONEWe are a united body walking in complete harmony with each other. We worship as one, serve as one, and fulfill the corporate call of God as one. Because we share the same vision, we are unstoppable in everything we put our hearts to.

1. GOD IS ONE Mark 12:29 NKJVJesus answered him, “The first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. John 14:19–20 NKJV“A little while longer and the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me. Because I live, you will live also. 20 At that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. Genesis 11:1-4At one time the whole earth had the same language and vocabulary. 2 As people migrated from the east, they found a valley in the land of Shinar and settled there. 3 They said to each other, “Come, let us make oven-fired bricks.” They used brick for stone and asphalt for mortar. 4 And they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the sky. Let us make a name for ourselves; otherwise, we will be scattered over the face of the whole earth.” Genesis 11:5-6 NKJV5 Then the Lord came down to look over the city and the tower that the men were building. 6 The Lord said, “If they have begun to do this as one people all having the same language, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them. Genesis 11:7-9 NKJV7 Come, let Us go down there and confuse their language so that they will not understand one another’s speech.” 8 So from there the Lord scattered them over the face of the whole earth, and they stopped building the city. 9 Therefore its name is called Babylon, for there the Lord confused the language of the whole earth, and from there the Lord scattered them over the face of the whole earth.2. GOD MOVES IN UNITY Acts 2:1-6 NKJVWhen the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. 5 And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. 6 And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. Acts 4:31 NKJVAnd when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness. Acts 4:32-33 NKJVNow the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. 33 And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.3. DISCIPLINED UNITY Titus 3:10–11 NLTIf people are causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with them. 11 For people like that have turned away from the truth, and their own sins condemn them. Mark 12:29–31 NKJVJesus answered him, “The first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment.
31 And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” 1 Corinthians 1:10 NKJVNow I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.The post WE ARE ONE first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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SHOUT FOR JOY Psalm 98:4 NASBShout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth; Break forth and sing for joy and sing praises Psalm 47:1 NASBO clap your hands, all peoples; Shout to God with the voice of joy. Psalm 118:15 NASBThe sound of joyful shouting and salvation is in the tents of the righteous; The right hand of the Lord does valiantly.The Spirit Of Faith Will Cause you to Shout while the walls are standing – Mark HankinsTHE JOY OF GIVING 2 Corinthians 8:1–5 NLTNow I want you to know, dear brothers and sisters, what God in his kindness has done through the churches in Macedonia. 2 They are being tested by many troubles, and they are very poor. But they are also filled with abundant joy, which has overflowed in rich generosity. 3 For I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford, but far more. And they did it of their own free will. 4 They begged us again and again for the privilege of sharing in the gift for the believers in Jerusalem. 5 They even did more than we had hoped, for their first action was to give themselves to the Lord and to us, just as God wanted them to do 2 Corinthians 8:7 NLTSince you excel in so many ways—in your faith, your gifted speakers, your knowledge, your enthusiasm, and your love from us—I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving.LAUGH FOR JOYFaith walk is accompanied by joy and peace. If we say they were faith people then we are joy people.

Psalm 16:11 NKJVYou will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Job 5:22 ESVAt destruction and famine you shall laugh, and shall not fear the beasts of the earth. Psalm 2:1–4 NKJVWhy do the nations rage, And the people plot a vain thing? 2 The kings of the earth set themselves, And the rulers take counsel together, Against the Lord and against His Anointed, saying, 3 “Let us break Their bonds in pieces And cast away Their cords from us.” 4 He who sits in the heavens shall laugh; The Lord shall hold them in derision. Psalm 126:1–3 NKJVWhen the Lord brought back the captivity of Zion, We were like those who dream. 2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter, And our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” 3 The Lord has done great things for us, And we are glad.The post Expressions of Joy first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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1. ABIDE IN CHRIST John 15:7–11 NKJVIf you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. 9 “As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. 10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. 11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. Psalm 16:11 AMPYou will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy, at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore.2. ABIDE IN THE WORD John 15:7–8 NKJVIf you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.3. ABIDE IN HIS LOVE John 15:9-10 NKJV“As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. 10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. 1 John 2:3–6 NKJVNow by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4 He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
5 But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. 6 He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked. Isaiah 61:3 NKJVTo console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes,
The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;…

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Romans 14:17 NKJVfor the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.1. MIND YOUR MIND2 Timothy 1:7 NKJVFor God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.Romans 12:2 NKJVAnd do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.Psalm 118:24 NLT
This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it. James 1:2 NKJVMy brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,2. GROWING STRONGER James 1:2-3 AMPCConsider it wholly joyful, my brethren, whenever you are enveloped in or encounter trials of any sort or fall into various temptations.
3 Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance andsteadfastness and patience. 3. POWER FLOWS IN THE REJOICING Romans 15:13 NKJVNow may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Nehemiah 8:10 NKJVThen he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Joshua 6:20 NASBSo the people shouted, and priests blew the trumpets; and when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, the people shouted with a great shout and the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight ahead, and they took the city Psalm 35:27 NASBLet them shout for joy and rejoice, who favor my vindication; And let them say continually, “The Lord be magnified,
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1. THE PLAN Matthew 6:33 AMPBut first and most importantly seek aim at, strive after His kingdom and His righteousness His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God, and all these things will be given to you also. John 5:19–21 NKJVThen Jesus answered and said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner. 20 For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel. 21 For as the Father raises the dead and gives life to them, even so the Son gives life to whom He will. Jeremiah 29:11For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.My Challenge is that this year we decide that God is truly First!2. THE PATH Psalm 65:11-13 NKJVYou crown the year with Your goodness, And Your paths drip with abundance. They drop onthe pastures of the wilderness, And the little hills rejoice on every side. The pastures are clothed with flocks; The valleys also are covered with grain; They shout for joy, they also sing. Proverbs 3:5–6 NKJVTrust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.“The only way to have a small life is for you to allow yourself to be the source of your life.”
– Henry Cloud3. THE PRIZE Philippians 3:13–14 NKJVBrethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Genesis 15:1AMPCAfter these things, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram, I am your Shield, your abundant compensation, and your reward shall be exceedingly great. Mark 10:21–22 NKJVThen Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” 22 But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
Then Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” Mark 10:28–31 NKJVThen Peter began to say to Him, “See, we have left all and followed You.”
29 So Jesus answered and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My sake and the gospel’s, 30 who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time—houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions—and in the age to come, eternal life. 31 But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”The post The Plan The Path & The Prize first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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1. PEACE & JOY Luke 2:8 NKJVNow there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.
11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 14 “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” Romans 14:17for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.2. FAITH & JOY Romans 15:13 NKJVNow may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Hebrews 12:2looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God 1 Peter 1:8-9whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.When you believe something, There’s going to be some rejoicing.3. GUARD YOUR HEART 2 Corinthians 10:4–6 NKJVFor the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.The post ‘In Joy’ Christmas first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Isaiah 7:14 NKJVTherefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.1. CHOSEN BY GOD Luke 1:26–30 NKJVNow in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” 29 But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was.
30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Highly Favored– to pursue with grace, compass with favor; to honor with blessings: Ephesians 1:11 NIVIn Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will2. RECEIVE IT Luke 1:31–38 NKJVAnd behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. 33 And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” 34 Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” 35 And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.” 38 Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. Mark 11:24 NKJVTherefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. Luke 17:5–6 NKJVAnd the apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith.”
6 So the Lord said, “If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.Mark 4:30–32 NKJVThen He said, “To what shall we liken the kingdom of God? Or with what parable shall we picture it? 31 It is like a mustard seed which, when it is sown on the ground, is smaller than all the seeds on earth; 32 but when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all herbs, and shoots out large branches, so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade.”3. I’M EXPECTING Luke 1:37AMPCFor with God nothing is ever impossible and no word from God shall be without power or impossible of fulfillment. Hebrews 11:11 NKJVBy faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised. Ephesians 1:3–4 NKJVBlessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in loveThe post Have a ‘Mary’ Christmas first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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1. LIGHT THE WAYColossians 1:15 NLTChrist is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, John 12:46 NKJVI have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes in Me will not remain in darkness. John 8:12 NKJVThen Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”2. FOUR BASIC NEEDS1. PURPOSE
2. IDENTITY
3. SECURITY
4. ACCEPTANCE Ephesians 2:10 NKJVFor we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. Ephesians 1:13 NLTAnd now you Gentiles have also heard the truth, the Good News that God saves you. And when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago. John 3:17 NKJVFor God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. Ephesians 1:5–6 NKJVhaving predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.3. LET IT SHINE Matthew 5:14–16 NLT“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15 No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Jesus told His followers to “let your light shine before others,” calling them to live an active faith, not a passive one. Put your light on its stand. Your family and community can tell what you believe by how you live. Ephesians 5:2 MSGKeep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn’t love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that. Luke 10:30–37 NLTJesus replied with a story: “A Jewish man was traveling from Jerusalem down to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road. 31 “By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by. 32 A Temple assistant walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side. 33 “Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. 34 Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him. 35 The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I’m here.’
36 “Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?” Jesus asked.
37 The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.”
Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.”The post Light of the World first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Proverbs 20:27 KJVThe spirit of man is the candle of the Lord, Searching all the inward parts of the belly.Romans 8:14, 16 NKJVFor as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,1. Safe Or Out?How Can I simplify being led by the Holy Spirit? Follow Peace.Colossians 3:15 NKJVAnd let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.Colossians 3:15 AMPAnd let the peace soul harmony which comes from Christ rule act as umpire continually in your hearts deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds,Isaiah 55:12
“For you shall go out with joy,And be led out with peace…Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct [a] your paths.2. Know His VoiceJohn 10:3–5 NKJVTo him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 Yet they will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangersHebrews 4:12 NKJVFor the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.Hebrews 4:12 AMPCFor the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.1 Kings 19:11–13 NKJVThen He said, “Go out, and stand on the mountain before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; 12 and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice.13 So it was, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood in the entrance of the cave. Suddenly a voice came to him, and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”3. God Inside Minded1 John 4:4 NKJVYou are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.1 Corinthians 14:14 NKJVFor if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitfulThe post A Familiar Voice first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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1. LIGHTProverbs 20:27 KJVThe spirit of man is the candle of the Lord, Searching all the inward parts of the belly.Psalm 18:28For thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness.2. WITNESSRomans 8:14 NKJVFor as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. The Greek word led is agoAgo = describes one leading an animal such as a cow or goat. The owner would put a rope around its neck, then tug until the animal started to follow him
When the animal decided to cooperate and follow that gentle tug, then he could be gently ” led” Where the owner wanted him to go. Romans 8:16 NKJVThe Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, Psalm 16:7I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons. Psalm 32:8-9I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye. 9 Do not be like the horse or like the mule, Which have no understanding, Which must be harnessed with bit and bridle, Else they will not come near you. Psalm 16:7I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.3. SAFE OR OUT? Colossians 3:15 NKJVAnd let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Read it again from the Amplified Colossians 3:15 AMPAnd let the peace soul harmony which comes from Christ rule act as umpire continually inyour hearts deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, Isaiah 55:12“For you shall go out with joy,And be led out with peace… Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. 1 Corinthians 14:14 NKJVFor if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitfulThe post Inward Witness first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Romans 8:14 NKJV
For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.Proverbs 20:27 KJVThe spirit of man is the candle of the Lord, Searching all the inward parts of the belly.1. SPIRIT OF TRUTHJohn 14:16–17 NKJVAnd I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.John 16:13-15However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. paraklētos: Comforter, Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, and Standby2. LIGHTProverbs 20:27 KJVThe spirit of man is the candle of the Lord, Searching all the inward parts of the belly. Luke 1:79 NKJVTo give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.” Matthew 4:16 NKJVThe people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, And upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death Light has dawned.” Psalm 18:28 KJVFor thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness. Isaiah 11:1–2 NKJVThere shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots. 2 The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him, The Spirit of wisdom and understanding, The Spirit of counsel and might, The Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.3. INWARD WITNESSRomans 8:14 NKJVFor as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. Romans 8:16 NKJVThe Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 1 Corinthians 14:14 NKJVFor if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitfulThe post Spiritual Light first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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2 Timothy 3:1–5 NKJVBut know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: 2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, 4 traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! Psalm 145:8–9 NKJVThe Lord is gracious and full of compassion, Slow to anger and great in mercy. 9 The Lord is good to all, And His tender mercies are over all His works.1. Moved With Compassion Matthew 9:36-38 NKJVBut when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. 37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; 38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. Matthew 15:32 NKJVThen Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way.2. Compassion Heals Matthew 14:14 NKJVAnd Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick. Jesus’ Galatians 5:6 AMPCFor [if we are] in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith activated and energized and expressed and working through love. Matthew 20:33–34 NKJVThey said to Him, “Lord, that our eyes may be opened.” 34 So Jesus had compassion and touched their eyes. And immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed Him. Mark 1:40-41And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. 41 And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.In every instance where Jesus was moved with compassion, the person or persons were delivered.

Human sympathy says, “I know how you feel; I’m so sorry.” Divine compassion says, “I feel how you feel.” And it brings deliverance. Jesus felt as Mary and Martha felt as He groaned within and also wept. — Reidt

John 11:33–36 NKJVTherefore, when Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her weeping, He groaned in the spirit and was troubled. 34 And He said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to Him, “Lord, come and see.”
35 Jesus wept. 36 Then the Jews said, “See how He loved him!”3. Enter into His CompassionThe works that Jesus did were born out of love and compassion. The works that the believing ones shall do, including prayer, are products of sharing in His ministry of love and compassion. 1 John 3:1 NKJVBehold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God. . . .That love is inside your spirit if you are born again. But you are the one who has to will to put it into practice. You choose to let that love loose from within you.* Terms of Service * Privacy Policy The post Compassion first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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1. JESUS KNEWWe Would need Help

I want to look at John 14-16, all three of these chapters happened during the last supper.

John 14:16-1716 And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. John 14:26But 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 things that I said to you. John 15:26-27“But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me. And you also will bear witness, because you have been with Me from the beginning. John 16:7-8Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. John 16:12-15“I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. Helper- paraklētos: counselor intercessor advocate the comforter
1) summoned, called to one’s side, esp. called to one’s aid.
– One who pleads another’s cause before a judge, a pleader, counsel for defense, legal assistant, an advocate. – A helper, aid, assistant.2. SUPERNATURAL HELPOf The Holy Spirit

Romans 8:26–27 NKJVLikewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. Infirmities / WeaknessesGreek Word asthenios – this is a generic term for all kinds of sickness and disease. Help Greek – synantilambanomai1. Syn -This word describes a partnership or cooperation. It’s what you do in cooperation with somebody else.
2. Anti -against
3. lambano – Means, I take something or I receive. But in this context it is a strong word
almost a violent word. To seize something and pull it to yourself. Romans 8:26–27 NKJVLikewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.3. ASKIntersession – To fall into a ditch with someone else. To share emotions and frustrations. A word of rescue; I’m going to get you out of this mess.The post We Need Help first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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2 Chronicles 7:14 NKJVIf My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.Turn – turn back, to return way, road, distance, journey… Acts 28:26–27 NKJVsaying,‘Go to this people and say: “Hearing you will hear, and shall not understand; And seeing you will see, and not perceive; 27 For the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, And their eyes they have closed, Lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, So that I should heal them.”1. CONFIDENCE 1 John 3:21–23 NKJVBeloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God.
22 And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. 23 And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another, as He gave us commandment.2. REPENT Revelation 2:1–5 NKJVTo the angel of the church of Ephesus write,
‘These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands: 2 “I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; 3 and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary. 4 Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. 5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent. Fallen Greek = piptoA fall; collapse; a downward plummet; a downward fall from a formerly high position. Repent Greek = MetanoeoTo make a change of mind that result in a complete, radical, total change of behavior; a decision to completely change or to entirely turned around in the way that one is thinking, behaving, or living; a total transformation affecting every part of a persons life, both inside and outside, resulting in a behavioral change. Romans 6:23 NKJVFor the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.3. CONFESS 1 John 1:9 NKJVIf we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.4. RENEW ROMANS 12:1–2 NKJVI beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.The post U-Turn first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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2 Chronicles 7:14 NKJV If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 1. ONE THING I DESIRE Psalm 27:4, 7-8 NKJV One thing I […]

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Immovable: fixed, secure, stable, rooted, riveted, anchored, braced, set firm, set fast, firm; stuck. 1 Corinthians 15:57–58 NKJV But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not […]

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1 Corinthians 7:35 NLT I am saying this for your benefit, not to place restrictions on you. I want you to do whatever will help you serve the Lord best, with as few distractions as possible. Colossians 3:1 NLT Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities […]

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Matthew 6:24 NLT No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money. Ecclesiastes 5:10-11 BSB He who loves money is never satisfied by money, and he who loves wealth is […]

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Mark 5:25 KJV 25 And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, 26 And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse, 27 When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his […]

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Deuteronomy 28:1 AMPC If you will listen diligently to the voice of the Lord your God, being watchful to do all His commandments which I command you this day, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. Proverbs 4:20-22 AMPC My son, attend to my words; consent and […]

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Proverbs 23:7 KJV 7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he… Romans 12:2 KJV 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. John 10:10 AMPC 10 The […]

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1. GOD IS SEEKING SUCH John 4:20–24 NKJV Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, and you Jews say that in Jerusalem is the place where one ought to worship.” 21 Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. 22 […]

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1. WHAT ARE PSALMS, HYMNS & SPIRITUAL SONGS? Ephesians 5:18-19 KJV And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;The evidence of receiving the baptism of the Holy […]

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IT WILL CHANGE YOUR VISION Psalm 63:1-5 O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You In a dry and thirsty land Where there is no water. 2 So I have looked for You in the sanctuary, To see Your power and Your […]

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2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. Ephesians 1:17–23 NKJV that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of […]

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“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” What is self-control (or temperance) Temperance – Greek word Enkratea Compound word En – Greek word for (in). Keratos – Greek word for (Power) Inward Power These words when combined means Power over […]

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1 John 3:9 NLT Those who have been born into God’s family do not make a practice of sinning, because God’s life is in them. Galatians 5:22–26 NKJV But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who […]

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Galatians 5:22–23 NKJV But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. 24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Goodness Greek – agathōsynē uprightness of […]

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God is Good Galatians 5:22–23 NKJV But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Exodus 33:18–23 NKJV And he said, “Please, show me Your glory.” 19 Then He said, “I will make all My goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the […]

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THE FRUIT OF FAITHFULNESS Galatians 5:22–25 NKJV But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.Let’s Look at this powerful trait of Who God is, and who He made you to be. 1. LOVE IS FAITHFUL This word “faith” is the […]

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THE FRUIT OF KINDNESS June 26, 2022 Galatians 5:22–25 NKJV But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, […]

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Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. CSB – For I know the plans I have for you”-[this is] the Lord’s declaration-“plans for [your] welfare, not for disaster, to give you […]

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Galatians 5:22–25 NKJV But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. […]

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Restores my soul – Definition He revives it and reinvigorates (New energy and Strength) it when it is exhausted and weary This verse is in the present tense. Anxiety Anxiety is, the opposite of peace. It is the fan that flames of doubt and confusion that leaves us helplessly bundled up in worry and fear. […]

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Isaiah 9:6–7 NKJV For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, 1. GOVERNMENT […]

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Galatians 5:22–23 NLT But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!Peace is not the absence of conflict, Peace is more than just a tranquil state Shalom- Peace Hebrew completeness, soundness, welfare, peace1  completeness […]

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The Fruit of the Spirit  = The Nature of God When you get born again, you receive God’s nature, but it must be cultivated within you. How do we water what’s within us?  The washing water of the word. A faith person is a joyful person, and a joyful person is a strong person, Nehemiah […]

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“The Pentecostal power, when you sum it all up, is just more of God’s love. If it does not bring more love, it is simply a counterfeit.” – William Seymour Galatians 5:16–26 NKJV I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusts […]

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Galatians 5:16–18 NKJV I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. 18 But if […]

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Isaiah 53:3-8 WEB He was despised, and rejected by men; a man of suffering, and acquainted with disease. He was despised as one from whom men hide their face; and we didn’t respect him. 4 Surely he has borne our sickness, and carried our suffering; yet we considered him plagued, struck by God, and afflicted. […]

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Exodus 33:14–16 NLT The Lord replied, “I will personally go with you, Moses, and I will give you rest— everything will be fine for you.” 15 Then Moses said, “If you don’t personally go with us, don’t make us leave this place. 16 How will anyone know that you look favorably on me—on me and […]

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Ekklesia is the Greek word translated in the New Testament as “church.” It comes from ek, meaning “out from and to” and kaleo, meaning “to call,” and has to do with a group of people called out from one place and to another. It is an assembly or a congregation. The ekklesia in the New […]

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I Thessalonians 4:16-18 (KJV) 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to […]

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Position vs Relation “The more I get to know God, the more I see that there’s so much I don’t know about Him.” – Kenneth E. Hagin We can’t stop with where we are positionally and forget where we need to be relationally. Colossians 1:16 KJV 16 For by him were all things created, that […]

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NO SQUATTER’S ALLOWED LUKE 10:17–20 NKJV Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.” 18 And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the […]

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We know we have Authority because it has been delegated to us. 1. DELEGATED POWER Luke 10:19 NKJV Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. The value of authority depends upon the force behind […]

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1. BY RIGHT OF BIRTH

We know we have authority by right of birth.

Psalms 8:1-9 NKJVO Lord, our Lord, How excellent is Your name in all the earth,

Who have set Your glory above the heavens! 2 Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have ordained strength, Because of Your enemies, That You may silence the enemy and the avenger. 3 When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, The moon and the stars, which You have ordained, 4 What is man that You are mindful ohim, And the son of man that You visit him? 5 For You have made him a little lower than the angels,[b] And You have crowned him with glory and honor. 6 You have made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet, 7 All sheep and oxen— Even the beasts of the field, 8 The birds of the air, And the fish of the sea That pass through the paths of the seas. 9 O Lord, our Lord, How excellent is Your name in all the earth! Look at vs. again 6

6 You have made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet, (Read & Meditate on this truth) Psalms 115:14-16 NKJVMay the Lord give you increase more and more, You and your children. 15 May you be blessed by the Lord, Who made heaven and earth.

16 The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord’s; But the earth He has given to the children of men. Genesis 1:26–28 NKJVThen God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” 27 So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” 2. THE STRUGGLE IS REAL Ephesians 6:12 NKJVFor we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.These Spirits that we wrestle with we have authority over them. Evil Spirits are rebel holders of authority, the are dethroned.

Note: we don’t have authority over other people

This authority is not just for a few, no it belongs to every born again child of God!

Ephesians 1:3 NKJVBlessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, John 8:32 NKJVYou shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.

Knowledge acted upon brings results.

Acts 19:11–16 NKJVNow God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, 12 so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them. 13 Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches.” 14 Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so.

15 And the evil spirit answered and said, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?” 16 Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. 3. DELEGATED POWER

We know we have Authority because it has been Delegated to us.

In explaining the nature of spiritual authority, it is useful to examine the difference between the words ‘authority’ and ‘power,’ as they are used in the following statement made by Christ

Luke 10:19 NKJVBehold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Authority Defined Greek Word authority’‘exousia = to have the right to rule or govern, as one whose will and commands ought to be submitted to and obeyed.

-lawful permission to execute power, or ability to bring judgment or justice for or against.”In contrast

Greek word ‘power’ is ‘dunamis,’ which means to have the inherent strength or actual ability to bring about a desired purpose.An eighteen wheeler has inherent strength and so its driver has direct or ‘dunamis’ power at his disposal to perform his task. While a traffic officer has insufficient physical power to stop a truck, he does have delegated or ‘exousia’ authority at his disposal. When the traffic officer puts up his hand the truck driver stops his vehicle, because behind that gesture lies the whole weight of the Police Department. The post You Have Authority Pastor David Crammer February 20, 2022 first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Understanding the Anointing Isaiah 10:27 KJV 27 And it shall come to pass in that day, that his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder, and his yoke from off thy neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing. Luke 4:18-19 KJV 18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, 19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. The Anointing Within John 4:14 NKJV 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life. B. The Anointing Upon John 7:37-38 KJV 37 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. Acts 1:8 KJV 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. Ephesians 5:17-18 KJV 17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. 18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Jeremiah 2:13 NKJV 13 For My people have committed two evils: They have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, And hewn themselves cisterns—broken cisterns that can hold no water. 2. Re-fillings Psalm 92:10 KJV 10…I shall be anointed with fresh oil. Romans 12:11 KJV 11 not slothful in business, but fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Fervent in spirit in the Strong’s Concordance = to boil or burn Be glowing in spirit. Have Your spirits aglow Be on fire with the spirit Be aglow and burning with the spirit. The Moffats translation says, Maintain the spiritual glow. Acts 2:1-4 KJV 1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. Acts 4:23-24, 29-31 KJV 23 And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them. 24 And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said… 29 …And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, 30 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus. 31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness. A Spirit-Filled Personality Ephesians 3:16 AMPC 16 May He grant you out of the rich treasury of His glory to be strengthened and reinforced with mighty power in the inner man by the [Holy] Spirit [Himself indwelling your innermost being and personality]. A. Speaking and Singing Ephesians 5:18-19 KJV 18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; B. Giving Thanks Ephesians 5:20 KJV 20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; C. A Submissive Spirit Ephesians 5:21-22 KJV 21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. 22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. Romans 12:16 AMPC 16 Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty (snobbish, high-minded, exclusive), but readily adjust yourself to [people, things] and give yourselves to humble tasks. Never overestimate yourself or be wise in your own conceits.The post A Fresh Anointing Josiah Stewart February 12, 2022 first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Luke 3:21–22 NKJV When all the people were baptized, it came to pass that Jesus also was baptized; and while He prayed, the heaven was opened. 22 And the Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven which said, “You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

1. LOVED IN HIM Romans 8:37–39 NKJV Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Colossians 3:1–3 NKJV If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. John 17:20–26 NKJV I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word;

21 that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. 22 And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: 23 I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.

24 “Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You;

and these have known that You sent Me. 26 And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.”

2. YOU NEED TO HEAR THIS

Galatians 2:20 NKJV

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

3. CONTINUE IN IT John 7:38–39 NKJV He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” 39 But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. Proverbs 11:25 NKJV The generous soul will be made rich,

And he who waters will also be watered himself The post To Be Continued Pastor David Crammer February 6, 2022 first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Philippians 1:9–11 NKJV And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, 10 that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, 11 being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. 1. Love Is 1 John 4:7-8 NKJV Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 8 He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. There are four Greek words to describe what we call love. Eros – Romantic love Self satisfaction- I love you because you make me happy!

A love that is emotional involvement based on body Chemistry.

It leads to children, family, joy and laughter. It is good and right, but it is usually not enough to sustain a relationship long term. Eros is an exulted and beautifully idealistic love, usually between a man and woman, Phileo – friendship If Eros is the love of the body, Phileo is the love of the soul. It is easy love and affection, it is bent towards our natural tastes and preferences. It embodies culture and beliefs. It’s about the friendship you feel towards people like you, with the same interests, social graces, and style. In the scriptures, this kind of friendship love is used to describe many relationships. Storge – Family loyalty Natural Affection

– This is the love of community and family. Often dutiful, sometimes unfeeling, but very strong none the less. It is a natural, carnal love. Agape – Unconditional love Thayer Lexicon describes agape beautifully when it says, “To take pleasure in the one, and to prize it above all other things, be unwilling to abandon it or do without it.”

– Agape is not kindled by the merit or worth of its object but it originates in its own God-

given nature. God is love.

– It delights in giving. – This love keeps on loving even when the loved one is unresponsive, unkind, unlovable, and unworthy. It is unconditional love. – Agape desires only the good of the one loved. It is a consuming passion for the well-being of others. This is the love that God has for us which inspired him to sacrifice His son and for His son to obey and sacrifice himself. God’s Love is multi Dimensional. Ephesians 3:16-19 16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height—19 to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 2. YOU ARE LOVED 1 John 4:18–19 NKJV There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. 19 We love Him because He first loved us. Jeremiah 31:3 NKJV The Lord has appeared of old to me, saying: “Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you. He loves you forever and ever and his love never runs out! Ephesians 3:19 NLT 19 May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. 3. YOU HAVE IT IN YOU Since we do not fully understand God’s love for us, we fail in loving others. We can’t give away what we don’t know we have. Romans 5:5 NKJV Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Christ in Our Place The more room you make for God in your life, the more love you will have flowing out of your life 1 John 4:9 NKJV 9 In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. 10 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.The post Growing in Love Pastor David Crammer January 30, 2022 first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Phyllis Moore Vision (Skip to 52:43)

1. THE PLAN Matthew 6:33 AMP

But first and most importantly seek aim at, strive after His kingdom and His righteousness His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God, and all these things will be given to you also.

Luke 22:39–46 NKJV

Coming out, He went to the Mount of Olives, as He was accustomed, and His disciples also followed Him. 40 When He came to the place, He said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.”

41 And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” 43 Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. 44 And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.

45 When He rose up from prayer, and had come to His disciples, He found them sleeping from sorrow. 46 Then He said to them, “Why do you sleep? Rise and pray, lest you enter into temptation.”

Jeremiah 29:11

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

Peter J. Daniels came from a disadvantaged background and was challenged with illiteracy in his early years. His family was third generation welfare recipients, he has two alcoholic brothers, 4 fathers and 2 mothers. Many of his relatives have been in jail. He failed at every grade in school and became a bricklayer. At 26 years of age he was hopelessly in debt, and attended a Billy Graham Crusade on 25 May 1959. He attributes his life change and subsequent success to that meeting. Suddenly he had a mountain sized dream to see how much money on human being could give away in his lifetime!

1. THE PATH Psalm 65:11-13 NKJV

You crown the year with Your goodness, And Your paths drip with abundance. They drop

on the pastures of the wilderness, And the little hills rejoice on every side. The pastures are clothed with flocks; The valleys also are covered with grain; They shout for joy, they also sing.

Proverbs 3:5–6 NKJV

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

“The only way to have a small life is for you to allow yourself to be the source of your life.” – Henry Cloud

1. THE PRIZE Philippians 3:13–14 NKJV

Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

Genesis 15:1AMPC

After these things, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram, I am your Shield, your abundant compensation, and your reward shall be exceedingly great.

Luke 19:12–24 NKJV

Therefore He said: “A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and to return. 13 So he called ten of his servants, delivered to them ten minas, and said to them, ‘Do business till I come.’ 14 But his citizens hated him, and sent a delegation after him, saying, ‘We will not have this man to reign over us.’ 15 “And so it was that when he returned, having received the kingdom, he then commanded these servants, to whom he had given the money, to be called to him, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading. 16 Then came the first, saying, ‘Master, your mina has earned ten minas.’ 17 And he said to him, ‘Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities.’ 18 And the second came, saying, ‘Master, your mina has earned five minas.’ 19 Likewise he said to him, ‘You also be over five cities.’ 20 “Then another came, saying, ‘Master, here is your mina, which I have kept put away in a handkerchief. 21 For I feared you, because you are an austere man. You collect what you did not deposit, and reap what you did not sow. 19 And he said to him, ‘Out of your own mouth I will judge you, you wicked servant. You knew that I was an austere man, collecting what I did not deposit and reaping what I did not sow. 23 Why then did you not put my money in the bank, that at my coming I might have collected it with interest?’

24 “And he said to those who stood by, ‘Take the mina from him, and give it to him who has ten minas.’

The post The Plan. The Path. The Prize. Pastor David Crammer January 16, 2022 first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Isaiah 2:3 NLT

People from many nations will come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of Jacob’s God. There he will teach us his ways, and we will walk in his paths.” For the Lord’s teaching will go out from Zion; his word will go out from Jerusalem.

Psalm 119:130 NKJV

The entrance of Your words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple.

1. ACCESS TO GOD’S SECRETS Deuteronomy 29:29 NKJV

“The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law.

Proverbs 25:2 KJV

It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter.

1. By Searching Matthew 7:7–11 NKJV

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to

you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. 9 Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent? 11 If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!

Romans 11:33 NKJV

Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!

Luke 15:8–9 NKJV

Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she has found it, she calls her friends and neighbors together, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the piece which I lost!’

This is what you do when something is out of place in your life. We have so many redemptive rights in Christ; if any of them is missing in your life, this is what to do. You light a candle and start sweeping, till you find it.

Matthew 13:44–46 NKJV

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, 46 who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.

1. BY PRAYER Daniel 2:16–19 NKJV

So Daniel went in and asked the king to give him time, that he might tell the king the interpretation. 17 Then Daniel went to his house, and made the decision known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions, 18 that they might seek mercies from the God of heaven concerning this secret, so that Daniel and his companions might not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. 19 Then the secret was revealed to Daniel in a night vision. So Daniel blessed the God of heaven.

In the school of success, God reveals the secret, man puts them to work and God confirms His Word by bringing the success.

The post THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS Pastor David Crammer January 9, 2022 first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Our knowledge of who God is. Luke 5:12-13 KJV

12 And it came to pass, when he was in a certain city, behold a man full of leprosy: who seeing Jesus fell on his face, and besought him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.

13 And he put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will: be thou clean. And immediately the leprosy departed from him.

Millions of Christians are in the same position and same mindset as the leper.

But what was Jesus’ response? “I will.”

If you believe the Bible, then you must believe that for anybody who poses the question, “is it God’s will to heal me?” the answer is still the same — “I Will.”

He never told one person, “I won’t.”

Jesus is the same today as he was then, therefore if his answer was “I will” then, it’s “I will” today.

Is everything that happens God’s will? Millions believe everything that happens is the will of God, but it isn’t so.

Romans 12:2 KJV

2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.

If everything that happened was the will of God, then why would we need our minds renewed?

We are supposed to learn how to discern what is or isn’t the will of God.

1 Thess 4:3 KJV

3 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:

1 Thess 5:18 KJV

18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

If it’s God’s will for us to give thanks in any situation then complaining can’t be the will of God.

If being saved is the will of God then being lost can’t be.

If being chaste and faithful is the will of God then sexual sin can’t be.

If being healed is the will of God, then being sick can’t be.

Therefore all things that happen cannot be the will of God.

Ephesians 5:17 KJV

17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

Ephesians 5:17 AMPC

17 Therefore do not be vague and thoughtless and foolish, but understanding and firmly grasping what the will of the Lord is.

How can we know the will of God? Jesus was the word made flesh. He said, “if you’ve seen me, you’ve seen the Father.” He was the expressed image of God’s will for mankind, therefore everything he said or did was a direct revelation of God’s will for everyone for all of time.

Luke 5:12-13 TLB

…“Sir,” he said, “if you only will, you can clear me of every trace of my disease.”

13 Jesus reached out and touched the man and said, “Of course I will. Be healed.” And the leprosy left him instantly!

Three Reasons Believers Remain Sick 1. They don’t know it’s God’s will for them to be healed

“Faith begins where the will of God is known.” – F.F. Bosworth

1. What’s been provided by grace must be received by faith.

2. Many people don’t obey God and follow his perfect will for their life.

Matthew 9:27-30 KJV

27 And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou son of David, have mercy on us.

28 And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, Lord.

29 Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you.

30 And their eyes were opened

Mark 9:22-23 KJV

…but if thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us.

23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

The post How You Can Know the Will of God Josiah Stewart January 1, 2022 first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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• List of healing scriptures
• List of confessions

John 1:1–5 KJV

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

Luke 4:18–19 KJV

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, 19 To preach

the acceptable year of the Lord.

John 14:26 KJV

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

1 John 2:20 KJV

But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.

1 John 2:27 KJV

But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

John 15:16–17 KJV

Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go

and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. 17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.

John 16:7 KJV

Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.

John 16:13–15 KJV

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. 15 All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

The post Guest Speaker Reverend Don Webb December 26, 2021 first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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John 1:14 NKJV

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

One of the aspects of grace is that it divinely enable us to live a Godly life in Christ. Grace empowers you.

Philippians 2:13 NKJV

for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.

Grace – The Unmerited undeserved unearned kindness and favor of God

1. Unmerited Ephesians 2:8-9

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.

Ephesians 2:4-5 ESV

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—

1. Undeserved Romans 3:23-24

for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

Grace: Greek Charis

3.Unearned Romans 11:6 NKJV

And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work.

• If it’s Free it’s not earned.
• If it’s earned it’s not free.
• It’s one or the other.

1 John 1:9 NKJV

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

The post Full of Grace Pastor David Crammer December 19, 2021 first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Isaiah 9:6 NKJV

For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Wonderful Counselor,

The Hebrew name “Wonderful Counselor” is one part of a fourfold prophetic name of Jesus, the Messiah.

1. WONDERFUL Wonderful – The Hebrew word is Pele

wonderful or marvelous It refers to something supernatural something that exceeds expectations. Something miraculous. indicates “a phenomenon lying outside the realm of human explanation; that which is separated from the normal course of events.”

Exodus 15:1–2 NKJV

Then Moses and the children of Israel sang this song to the Lord, and spoke, saying: “I will sing to the Lord, For He has triumphed gloriously! The horse and its rider He has thrown into the sea! 2 The Lord is my strength and song,

Exodus 15:11 NKJV

Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders? (Pele)

This Hebrew word pele’ (wonderful) is used in the Bible of things that are unusual and beyond the capability of man, often mysterious or difficult things.

When Abraham’s elderly wife, Sarah, laughed at the idea that she would bear a child, God responded to her, “Is anything too difficult (pele’) for the Lord?” (Gen. 18:14).

In fact, the Bible only uses pele’ for God’s deeds and words, never for human accomplishments. This not only describes what He does, it describes who He is. He, Himself, is the wonder!

1. COUNSELOR “Counselor.” In its historical usage, the word pictured a king giving counsel to his people.

Isaiah 11:1–2 NKJV

There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots. 2 The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him,

The Spirit of wisdom and understanding,

The Spirit of counsel and might,

The Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.

1 Corinthians 1:30 NKJV

But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption—

Matthew 13:54 NKJV

When He had come to His own country, He taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished and said, “Where did this Man get this wisdom and these mighty works?

Colossians 2:3 NKJV

in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

1. MIRACULOUS COUNSEL This literally translates, “a wonder of a counselor.” What does this name mean?

He is the type of counselor, that councils you in such a way to take you to the miraculous.

The type of counsel that God gives, the results far exceeds your expectations

Jesus will counsel us and guide us in such a way that that leads in such a way that leads to miraculous supernatural beyond your natural expectations results.

Psalm 32:7–8 NKJV

You are my hiding place;

You shall preserve me from trouble;

You shall surround me with songs of deliverance.

Selah 8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.

He can help us in ways that go far beyond our ability to understand or our own limitations.

2 Corinthians 5:20–21 NKJV

Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

The post Wonderful Counselor Pastor David Crammer December 12, 2021 first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

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Proverbs 4:20–23 NKJV

My son, give attention to my words;

Incline your ear to my sayings.

21 Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart;

22 For they are life to those who find them, And health to all their flesh.

23 Keep your heart with all diligence,

For out of it spring the issues of life.

1. STRENGTH INSIDE & OUT Proverbs 18:14 NKJV

The spirit of a man will sustain him in sickness, But who can bear a broken spirit?

Proverbs 18:14 AMPC

The strong spirit of a man sustains him in bodily pain or trouble, but a weak and broken spirit who can raise up or bear?

Proverbs 4:23 NKJV

23 Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.

Proverbs 4:23 AMPC

Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life.

1. DEVELOP A STRONG SPIRIT 1 Timothy 4:6 NKJV

If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed. 7 But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness.

8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.

HERE’S HOW YOU GET STRONG SPIRITUALLY It’s the same way we do it in our body. • Eating

• Exercise

Luke 4:4 NKJV

But Jesus answered him, saying, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.’

John 6:63 NKJV

It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.

EXERCISE YOUR SPIRIT How do you exercise you spirit.

– One of the best way to exercise spiritually is by confessing the Word.

– Speaking in Tongues is a good spiritual exercise. “But you, beloved, building yourselves

up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit” (Jude 20 NKJV)

• Praise & Worship.
• Every time your use your faith you are exercising your spirit.
• Walking in Love.

• Walking in the Fruit of the Spirit.

• STOP THE DRAINS Joel 3:10b NKJV

Let the weak say, ‘I am strong.’

Psalm 18:32 NKJV

It is God who arms me with strength, And makes my way perfect.

Psalm 27:1 NKJV

The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalm 29:11 AMPC

The Lord will give [unyielding and impenetrable] strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people

The post A Strong Spirit Pastor David Crammer December 5, 2021 first appeared on Covenant Life Church.