Today · 37 min
Timeless Wisdom with Dennis Prager - Is the Medical Industry Corrupt? | Sunday Fireside Chat
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Today · 7 minYour Nightly Scripture - Giving My Worries and Burdens to God (1 Peter 5)
Evening Scripture 1 Peter, Chapter 5 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them — not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen. With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it. She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you her greetings, and so does my son Mark. Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ. Evening Reflection When I was a high school English teacher, most days were long, dreary, and stress-inducing. Not because I didn’t love the students, I did (and still do), but because I struggled to be present. I was there, but I wasn’t really there. Have you ever been in this place? Carrying our worries with us long after the day is over is common to most of us. We’re not counting sheep, we’re counting concerns. It’s not that we want to, but we can’t seem to shake them out of our minds. From replaying conversations to stressing about tomorrow, or carrying burdens that we were never meant to bear alone, the verses found in 1 Peter 5 sound so out of reach. How do we cast all of our anxiety on Him? How do we resist the devil? How do we truly give God our burdens? What I love about this passage is that no matter what worries have been occupying my mind, God tells us to cast them on Him because He cares for us. Because He loves us. Because He knows we will try to carry them. But He wants to help lighten the load. It’s a difficult question to ponder, but what burdens have you been trying to carry in your own strength? What are you truly anxious about, and have you given these concerns to God? Are you still holding tightly to what is slowly killing you? When you think about your life, I want you to know that a changed perspective is possible. God invites us to cast all our anxieties on Him because He cares for us. Not because He’s mad at us or yelling at us when we do. But because we weren’t created to, nor do we have to carry the weight of our burdens alone. True humility isn’t acting like our worries and fears don’t exist, but recognizing our need for God's help while surrendering control to Him. His strength and care are greater than any worry we face. This passage reminds us that this side of Heaven, you and I may still be anxious. It’s not natural to give our worries and cares to someone we can’t physically see. But it’s a great opportunity to ask yourself what burdens you’re carrying and how we can choose to faithfully trust eve
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Today · 6 minYour Nightly Prayer: Evening Prayers for Christian... - Praying for Grandparents and the Legacy They Leave
On a chilly November morning, a school hosted its first Grandparents Day. The plan was for around seventy people. What actually arrived was five hundred thirty-seven. Grandparents filled the room, some having flown in just to be there, and standing in the middle of it all was a moment of pure awe: a room full of legacy, love, and faith. It was a quiet confirmation of something Scripture has said all along. The relationship between grandparents and grandchildren matters deeply to a child’s heart. Throughout the Bible, grandparents and older generations are named again and again. Timothy’s sincere faith first lived in his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice. Children’s children are a crown to the aged. The Lord’s righteousness reaches to children’s children. Moses urged the people to teach what they had seen to their children and to their children after them. And the psalmist prayed that even in old age he might declare God’s power to the next generation. Psalm 145:4 holds the whole idea in a single line: one generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts. Faith has always been passed along this way, through stories told at kitchen tables, wisdom shared without pressure, and a steady presence that brings a special kind of joy. Grandparents hold a seat at the table of a child’s life that no one else can fill. They can soften hard conversations. Their wisdom is often met with welcome rather than resistance. Their legacy is rich in story, presence, and faith. Tonight, thank God for the older generations who have shaped you, and pray that the grandparents in your life would know they are honored, cherished, and delighted in by the Lord. Ponder Tonight Scripture treats the passing of faith from one generation to the next as central to God’s design, and grandparents are named throughout the Bible as vital carriers of that legacy. A grandparent’s role is distinct from a parent’s. Their wisdom often arrives as invitation rather than instruction, which can open a child’s heart in ways that other voices cannot. Honoring older generations is an act of faithfulness. Letting them know their stories and presence are wanted and needed is one of the simplest and most meaningful ways to bless them. Remembering a piece of wisdom or an example of faith from an older person is a reminder that legacy is received before it is passed on, and that each of us is now part of the chain. Tonight’s Scripture “One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.” — Psalm 145:4, ESV Your Evening Prayer Father, Thank You for the gift of grandparents and the wisdom they offer. Help us make sure older generations know they are loved, cherished, and celebrated. Remind us to tell them that their stories and presence are wanted and needed. Holy Spirit, encourage the grandparents who need to be reminded of what a gift they are and how much they have to offer the younger generations. Give them boldness to speak truth and confidence to share Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Lif
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Today · 6 minThe Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Chris... - More Than a Conqueror
Do you feel like you're constantly fighting worry, fear, and anxiety instead of living with the confidence God promises? Romans 8:37 reminds us that through Jesus Christ, we are more than conquerors. Yet when life's challenges feel overwhelming, it's easy to see yourself as a victim of your circumstances rather than an overcomer through Christ. The difference between being a worrier and a warrior comes down to where you place your confidence. A worrier tries to face every battle through personal strength and understanding, while a warrior trusts God to provide the strength, wisdom, and direction needed to overcome fear and uncertainty. Highlights Understand what it means to be more than a conqueror: Explore Romans 8:37 and the victory believers have through the love of Jesus Christ. Recognize the difference between a worrier and a warrior: Learn how trusting God changes the way you respond to fear, insecurity, and uncertainty. Understand the spiritual battle behind worry: Discover why Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our struggles involve more than the people and circumstances we can see. Replace anxious thoughts with biblical truth: Use God's promises to challenge fear, doubt, and the belief that you cannot overcome difficult situations. Renew your mind through Scripture: Explore Romans 12:2 and how changing your thought patterns can transform your perspective. Rely on God's strength instead of your own: Find encouragement in Romans 8:31 and Psalm 28:7 when you feel unprepared or overwhelmed. Choose faith over fear: Learn how prayer and confidence in Christ can help you move from feeling like a victim to living as an overcomer. Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: More Than a Conqueror By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading: “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us” (Romans 8:37 NIV). The writer of Romans 8 t
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Today · 6 minChapter-A-Day Audio Bible - Isaiah 51
Please visit https://www.biblestudyheadquarters.com/ for more tools and resources to help you grow in faith. You can also become a regular supporter of this podcast on the website. . If you enjoy the show and want to buy John a coffee, please click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnstange . The "Desire Jesus One Year Devotional" can be found here: https://amzn.to/41v1DKh . To email John Stange directly, please send your message to biblestudyheadquarters@gmail.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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Today · 7 minYour Daily Prayer - A Prayer for a Pastor’s Wife
While a church may be thriving and a pastor’s sermons may be bringing hope to those in need, there is often another person quietly hurting in the pews: the pastor’s wife. Her role is easy to overlook. Many carry hidden wounds that few can relate to, from the pressure to keep the ministry afloat, to friendships that come and go, to juggling multiple responsibilities with a smile. It is a calling that is not for the faint of heart, and the weight of it often goes unseen. Galatians 6:9 encourages every believer not to grow weary in doing good, and that includes the women who serve alongside their husbands in ministry. This episode offers three practical ways to care for a pastor’s wife. First, extend grace. She is a real person who will make mistakes, and a missed hello or an unanswered text may be an honest oversight, not a personal slight. Second, offer support. Instead of focusing only on how she can serve your family, consider how you might show up for her, whether by helping with a task, an event, or a simple need. Third, pray for her, asking God to give her wisdom, strength, and peace. When we extend grace, offer help, and lift her up in prayer, we carry one another’s burdens, just as Scripture invites us to do. Bible Verse “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:9, NIV Ponder Today Pastors’ wives often carry hidden wounds. Pressure, shifting friendships, and heavy responsibilities can weigh on her in ways the congregation rarely sees. She needs grace like everyone else. Romans 3:23 reminds us that all fall short. When in doubt, extend the grace you would hope to receive. Avoid assumptions. A moment that felt personal may have been an honest mistake by someone balancing the needs of many people. Show up for her. Offering practical help is not about a pedestal. It is about recognizing the emotional and practical load she may carry. Pray for her. Ask God to give her wisdom, strength, and peace, and to renew her courage and joy. A Prayer for You Today Heavenly Father, I pray for my pastor’s wife. Though I may not fully understand what she goes through, I thank You for the ways she serves the church. Give me eyes to see where I can step in and help, and discernment to know how to pray for her. Forgive me if I have made unfair assumptions about her or placed unrealistic expectations on her. Help me see her as Your daughter, not simply as someone whose role is to serve the church. Show me how to honor and encourage her through grace, support, and prayer. Renew her strength, courage, and joy in the days to come. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocatio
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Today · 3 minDaily Devotions with Pastor John - Choose this day whom you will serve
Please visit https://www.biblestudyheadquarters.com/ for more tools and resources to help you grow in faith. You can also become a regular supporter of this podcast on the website. . If you enjoy the show and want to buy John a coffee, please click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnstange . The "Desire Jesus One Year Devotional" can be found here: https://amzn.to/41v1DKh . To email John Stange directly, please send your message to biblestudyheadquarters@gmail.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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- LYesterday · 1 hr 24 min
Timeless Wisdom with Dennis Prager - What the Ten Plagues Teach Us About God | Weekend Torah Teaching
In this week's Torah teaching, Dennis Prager examines the story of the Ten Plagues in the Book of Exodus and explains what these events were meant to teach the Egyptians, the Israelites, and the world. While the plagues helped secure the Israelites' freedom from slavery, Dennis argues that their deeper purpose was to make clear that God is the Creator, that He rules over nature, and that there is no power greater than Him. As Dennis explores the Torah's account of the plagues, he discusses the conflict between God and the false gods of Egypt, the relationship between divine justice and human responsibility, and why the Torah rejects nature as the ultimate guide to morality. He also examines a striking lesson from Moses, who immediately cries out to God to end the plague of frogs, demonstrating compassion for the Egyptians even as their nation suffers for its wrongdoing. What do the Ten Plagues reveal about God's nature and purpose? Why does the Torah repeatedly emphasize that the world must know that God is God? And what can Moses' compassion teach us about resisting hatred toward entire groups of people? Dennis explores these questions in a deeper look at the Exodus story and the enduring lessons of the Torah. Follow on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/timeless-wisdom-with-dennis-prager/id1517302239 Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4SZEYeH4tuLr2FvG4ok1rl Learn more about Dennis Prager: https://pragertopia.com/ Follow Dennis on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DennisPrager Follow Dennis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedennisprager/ Follow Dennis on X: https://x.com/DennisPrager Learn more about the Salem Podcast Network: https://salempodcastnetwork.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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- LYesterday · 6 min
Your Nightly Scripture - Finding Lasting Joy in God’s Presence (Psalm 16)
Evening Scripture Psalm, Chapter 16 Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you.” As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight. The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names on my lips. The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance. I bless the Lord who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me. I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure. For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption. You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Evening Reflection Joy. It’s one of the things we long for most in life. Yet with the challenges we face, is lasting joy even possible? How do we hold on to joy when we're bombarded with one difficulty after another? In tonight’s passage, the psalmist David expressed a level of joy that can only be found in a relationship with the Lord. From his praise, we, too, can discover God’s plan for lasting joy. David proclaimed, “The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot” (Psalm 16:5). God planned an inheritance for us that is full of promise and provision. And even though this abundant gift doesn’t ensure a life free from trouble, our God is always steadfast and sure. Sometimes our supply will run low, and we may be tempted to worry over when provision will come. Thankfully, we have good news to cling to, whatever struggles we face. Our inheritance rests in God’s powerful hands. The Hebrew word for “lot” spoken in this psalm is goral, which means, “a device by which a decision was made” as it relates to an allotment of land or an inheritance. When David expressed his belief in God as the holder of his lot, he acknowledged his trust in God to keep his inheritance safe. No matter what difficulties come our way, our inheritance as God’s children rests secure because of the One who holds our future. As we ponder tonight’s psalm, let’s focus on this truth David knew: God himself is our rich and glorious inheritance. Like David, we can rejoice knowing lasting joy is found in God’s presence. He is here with us right now. Let’s pray and ask God to renew joy in our hearts as we reflect on the closing verse, “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11). Evening Prayer Dear God, Thank you for your Word. It brings me joy to know you are here with me, and that you hear my prayer. Thank you for my inheritance as your child. I rejoice in knowing my future is secure because of my relationship with you. Your son Jesus suffered death on the cross so that I could have eternal life — a gift I did not deserve, but you freely gave because of who you are. You are a good and generous God. You are my portion, now and forever. In Jesus name I pray, Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up f
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- LYesterday · 5 min
Your Nightly Prayer: Evening Prayers for Christian... - Resting in the Truth That God Has Not Forgotten You
Every one of us needs to be seen and heard. It is among the deepest longings of the human heart, and it makes sense that it would be. We were made in the image of a God who is, within Himself, an intimate relationship, and so we long to be known and understood in return. But the Fall brought division. Separation from God, from one another, even from ourselves. And so, to some degree, we all know what it is to feel overlooked. Unseen in a crowded room. Unheard in our own homes. Forgotten by the people who were supposed to remember. Sometimes the feeling is partly imagined and sometimes it is painfully accurate, but either way it can lead us toward despair, toward questioning our worth, toward a loneliness that follows us even among people. Isaiah 49:15-16 speaks straight into that ache. Can a mother forget the baby at her breast? It is the most tender image God could reach for, the bond between a mother and her child. And then He goes further: even if she could forget, I will not forget you. You are engraved on the palms of My hands. Engraved. Not written in pencil, not noted for later. Permanently marked, in the place He sees every time He reaches out. Your name, your situation, your walls ever before Him. Even if everyone else forgets us, the greatest Being of all never does. He hears and sees and knows all things, and being God, He can give each of us His full attention. He does not remember us out of obligation. He remembers us because He loves us. Tonight, whatever has made you feel unseen or unknown, bring it to the One who has you continually on His mind. You are fully known, and you are not forgotten. Ponder Tonight The longing to be seen and heard is not a weakness. It reflects the way we were made, in the image of a relational God, and it points us toward the One who can fully satisfy it. Feeling forgotten often brings temptations toward despair and self-doubt. Naming those feelings honestly before God allows His truth about our worth to answer the lies they tell. God’s remembrance of us is rooted in His love and in the unchangeable nature of His covenant. It does not rise and fall with how others treat us or how we feel. Being fully known by God equips us to help others feel seen and heard. Receiving His attention gives us something real to pass on. Tonight’s Scripture “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.” — Isaiah 49:15-16, NIV Your Evening Prayer Heavenly Father, Thank You for seeing us, hearing us, and knowing us completely. When we feel overlooked, forgotten, or alone, remind us that we stay continually on Your mind. Silence the lies that make us question our worth or Your love. Bring us into the security of being fully known by You. Help us rest in Your compassion and trust Your unchanging promises. Let Your faithful love heal our loneliness and teach us to help others feel seen and heard. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Sign
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- LYesterday · 6 min
The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Chris... - Light Candles with God
Looking for a simple way to focus during prayer and meditation? Lighting a candle during your devotional time can help quiet distractions, settle your thoughts, and remind you of God’s presence. When stress, fear, or discouragement makes it difficult to feel close to God, the gentle glow of a candle can serve as a meaningful reminder that His light shines even in your darkest moments. Psalm 18:28 declares that God lights our candles and brightens our darkness, offering hope when we feel overwhelmed. Rather than trying to find strength or peace on your own, you can turn to God as the source of wisdom, comfort, and spiritual light. Highlights Use candlelight to focus during prayer: Learn how a simple visual reminder can help quiet distractions and center your thoughts on God. Find hope in Psalm 18:28: Discover the reassurance that God brings light into your darkness rather than expecting you to overcome every struggle alone. Create meaningful devotional habits: Explore how lighting a candle during morning prayer or evening reflection can make time with God more intentional. Ask God for wisdom, peace, and encouragement: Bring your specific needs to Him through honest, focused prayer. Release worry before bedtime: Use a quiet candlelit moment to reflect on God’s faithfulness and entrust your concerns to Jesus. Remember that God’s light is greater than darkness: Find encouragement when facing fear, sadness, doubt, or overwhelming circumstances. Share God’s light with others: Consider how the peace and hope you receive from God can encourage people who are walking through difficult seasons. Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Light Candles with God By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading: “Surely, You will light my candle. The LORD, my God, will lighten my darkness.” – Psalm 18:28, RGT I often light candles at home to remind myself of God’s presence with me. Dur
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- LYesterday · 3 min
Chapter-A-Day Audio Bible - Isaiah 50
Please visit https://www.biblestudyheadquarters.com/ for more tools and resources to help you grow in faith. You can also become a regular supporter of this podcast on the website. . If you enjoy the show and want to buy John a coffee, please click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnstange . The "Desire Jesus One Year Devotional" can be found here: https://amzn.to/41v1DKh . To email John Stange directly, please send your message to biblestudyheadquarters@gmail.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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- LYesterday · 7 min
Your Daily Prayer - A Prayer for Courage When You Fear the Outcome
Courage rarely feels like courage in the moment. For many people, it is needed for everyday social interactions as well as the bigger things in life, and it often shows up only after a nudge from the Lord. One of the hardest tests of courage is continuing to do what is right when you know you may be treated wrongly for it, such as reaching out to a once-close friend who has pulled away and now wants nothing to do with you, with God, or with the church. Deuteronomy 31:8 gives the foundation for that kind of obedience: the Lord himself goes before you and will be with you, and he will never leave you nor forsake you. Courage does not come from being zapped with boldness after a prayer. God provides opportunities to be courageous, and it is up to us to take them. Sometimes the step of faith does not go the way we hoped, and that is okay, because God already knows the outcome. What matters is obedience and trusting Him with the results. When we choose to bless instead of retaliate, to speak life instead of bitterness, and to leave the response in the Father’s hands, we can find a peace that surprises us even when the reply is painful. Courage does not quit. It moves forward, one faith-filled step at a time. Bible Verse “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” — Deuteronomy 31:8, NIV Ponder Today God provides opportunities to be courageous, and we choose whether to step into them. Praying for courage matters, but courage grows when we take the faith-filled step He puts in front of us. Sometimes courage means doing what is right when you know you will be treated wrongly. Obedience is not measured by the response we receive. You can step out in faith without any assurance that it will go well. God already knows when things will not turn out the way we hoped, and He is still with us. Ask God for His heart toward the people who hurt you. Choosing to bless, speak life, and refuse offense is its own quiet form of courage. Peace is a sign you have left the outcome with God. When we do the Father’s will and trust Him with the results, even a hurtful response loses its power to rattle us. A Prayer for You Today Dearest Jesus, sometimes in this life we need an extra measure of courage. Whether it is saying hard things to someone or getting on an airplane, we know You are with us. You go before us and will not leave us on our own. May we be increasingly aware of the opportunities You provide to walk in faith and trust You with the outcome. Being courageous demonstrates our commitment to obeying Your Word, and so with courage we will walk out what You place before us. In Christ’s name, Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healin
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- LYesterday · 3 min
Daily Devotions with Pastor John - Pray in every circumstance
Please visit https://www.biblestudyheadquarters.com/ for more tools and resources to help you grow in faith. You can also become a regular supporter of this podcast on the website. . If you enjoy the show and want to buy John a coffee, please click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnstange . The "Desire Jesus One Year Devotional" can be found here: https://amzn.to/41v1DKh . To email John Stange directly, please send your message to biblestudyheadquarters@gmail.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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Friday · 1 hr 7 minThinking Christian: Bible, Theology, and Culture - Is Mercy in Judgment a Sign of Weakness?
s mercy in judgment a sign of weakness? In part 2 of their capital punishment conversation, James Spencer and Ashish Varma ask whether the death penalty fits God's long-suffering. Ashish Varma argues that Old Testament laws calling for death were less a mandate than an image of how serious sin is, an image fulfilled at the cross, which in his view takes capital punishment off the table for church and state. James Spencer agrees with the trajectory but not its cleanliness: Ruth shows mercy as the spirit of the law, yet Nadab and Abihu and Ananias and Sapphira show that God's long-suffering has limits. Many Christians assume that a society without the death penalty looks weak and leaves victims' families without justice. James and Ashish answer that mercy in judgment is not weakness but still judgment, that vengeance belongs to God, and that vehement Christian support for the death penalty sits poorly with the logic of the cross. They end closer together than they began, with Bonhoeffer and the Hitler question still open. Part 1: Should Christians Support Livestreaming an Execution? In this episode: Is mercy in judgment a sign of weakness, or is it still judgment? Ruth, Nadab and Abihu, and Ananias and Sapphira on God's long-suffering and its limits Henri Blocher, Hosea, and reading Old Testament law as an image of God's love and judgment Victims' families, "vengeance is mine," and Genesis 9:6 in the death penalty debate Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Stanley Hauerwas, and who is fit to decide when mercy ends Go deeper: Christians and Politics Thinking Christian is hosted by Dr. James Spencer, president of the D. L. Moody Center and author of Digital Discernment (InterVarsity Press). Each conversation reads the Bible as the final authority for life and faith, questioning the assumptions of our culture, even our Christian culture, so that we don't settle for a narrower vision than God's word offers. Unsettling convention. Cultivating conviction. Episodes, articles, and questions: thinkingchristian.org About James Spencer: thinkingchristian.org/james The Thinking Christian Framework: thinkingchristian.org/framework Order Digital Discernment: amazon.com Subscribe: YouTube · Apple Podcasts · Spotify Advertising and partnership inquiries: info@thinkingchristian.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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- LFriday · 40 min
Timeless Wisdom with Dennis Prager - Divorce and Children: What Really Matters? | The Happiness Hour
Should parents stay married for the sake of their children? On this episode of the Happiness Hour, Dennis Prager takes on a sensitive and often misunderstood subject: the effects of divorce on children. Challenging the conventional wisdom that divorce inevitably leads to lasting unhappiness, Dennis argues that the reality is more complicated than many people believe. Dennis discusses research on children of divorced parents and questions whether these studies adequately account for the circumstances children would have experienced if their parents had stayed together. He emphasizes that while a happy, loving, intact family is the ideal, remaining in an unhappy marriage is not always the best choice for children. Taking calls from listeners with different experiences, Dennis explores what happens when divorced parents maintain a cooperative relationship, why a parent's continued involvement in a child's life matters, and how speaking negatively about an ex-spouse can cause lasting harm. He also discusses the importance of helping children face difficult realities without making them feel doomed by their family circumstances. Can children thrive after divorce? Is staying together always better than separating? And how can parents protect their children's happiness when a marriage ends? Dennis offers his perspective in a thoughtful, sometimes contentious discussion about marriage, divorce, parenting, and the dangers of believing that difficult circumstances must determine our future. Follow on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/timeless-wisdom-with-dennis-prager/id1517302239 Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4SZEYeH4tuLr2FvG4ok1rl Learn more about Dennis Prager: https://pragertopia.com/ Follow Dennis on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DennisPrager Follow Dennis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedennisprager/ Follow Dennis on X: https://x.com/DennisPrager Learn more about the Salem Podcast Network: https://salempodcastnetwork.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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- LFriday · 8 min
Your Nightly Scripture - Clinging to God’s Promises When Doubt Creeps In (Hebrews 6)
Evening Scripture Hebrews, Chapter 6 Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, instruction about cleansing rites, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And God permitting, we will do so. It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age and who have fallen away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace. Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned. Even though we speak like this, dear friends, we are convinced of better things in your case — the things that have to do with salvation. God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. When God made his promise to Abraham, since there was no one greater for him to swear by, he swore by himself, saying, “I will surely bless you and give you many descendants.” And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised. People swear by someone greater than themselves, and the oath confirms what is said and puts an end to all argument. Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath. God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek. Evening Reflection Promises are great, but they are only as good as the person making them. We all know people who have said they are going to do something and their word is as useless as an umbrella in a hurricane. However, God’s promises are different. They are that way because he made them, but more importantly because he always keeps them. Yet, there is one little challenge we all experience when we are waiting for God’s promise to be fulfilled. We don’t know when it will happen. It would be so much easier if God always said “on this date, at this time, this is what I am going to do.” Most of the time that is not how it works. Instead, we must trust that he will do what he says even when we don’t know when. So how then do you cling to his promises when they are delayed, and how do you avoid allowing doubt to start creeping in? One thing you can do is look at God’s track record. Looking through the Bible and back through your own life, you will see a record of God’s faithfulness. Sometimes you must remind yourself of this. Remember how you just happened to run into the right person who opened a door for you. Or consider the provision that came through exactly when you needed it. Maybe it was the person praying for your exact situation without you saying a word. These things may seem small, but they are reminders that God sees your situation and he will come through. If you are believing in God for something, keep believing he is true t
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- LFriday · 6 min
Your Nightly Prayer: Evening Prayers for Christian... - Finding God’s Light as the Days Grow Darker
The storm came out of nowhere. One day the park was sunny and over one hundred degrees, and the next it was sixty-five and swirling with rain. The concert was canceled. Thousands of people huddled in a cramped storm shelter for what felt like hours. And when the long wait ended and the walk back to the hotel was done, the resort had lost power too. Locked out of the rooms. Dark. Raining so hard it was impossible to see. Eventually the doors were opened, but none of the locks worked. And there, in pitch-black darkness, sleep would not come. Fear, anxiety, and a long string of what-if scenarios filled the night. When darkness surrounds us, it is hard to see the light. Not only physically, but spiritually. And yet, on that night, one thing brought real comfort: she was not alone. A mother was close by. Everyone else in the building was in the same predicament. And Jesus was guarding the door. John 8:12 is often misunderstood. Jesus does not promise that His followers will never face hardship, calamity, pain, or sorrow. We will. What He promises is the light of life, a light that lives within us, rescuing us from eternal darkness and meeting us in every dark night along the way. Somewhere in the middle of that night, the power came back on. They did not even notice. That is how most light works. We do not fully realize its presence until we need it. But it was there, active and on, whether or not it was seen. If the days are growing darker, and the nights feel longer and heavier, remember that the Light of Life is present within you. You are not alone in the dark. Ponder Tonight Jesus did not promise a life free of dark seasons. He promised that those who follow Him will never walk in darkness, because the light of life goes with them into every hard night. Light is often most appreciated when we need it, and we often do not notice it until the darkness has been interrupted. That does not mean it was ever absent. Darkness makes it hard to see the light, spiritually as well as physically. Fear and what-if thinking thrive in the dark, which is why returning to what is true, that Jesus is present and guarding the door, matters so much. We are rescued from eternal darkness through Christ, and that same light strengthens us when hard days and darker nights make us want to give up. Tonight’s Scripture “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” — John 8:12, NIV Your Evening Prayer Dear Jesus, Life is full of hard moments. From calamity to simply being human in a fallen world, we are tired of navigating dark days and darker nights. When we are tempted to throw in the towel, remind us of the light. Help us not to give up, but to look to You. Be light in the dark and our source of strength when we are weak. Remind us that while hard times will still come, You are ever with us. You are the Light of the World. We love, praise, and thank You, Jesus. Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an
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Friday · 6 minYour Daily Bible Verse - When God Raises Up Those Others Reject (Judges 12:7)
Today's Bible Verse: “Jephthah led Israel six years. Then Jephthah the Gileadite died and was buried in a town in Gilead.” — Judges 12:7 Have you ever felt rejected, overlooked, or judged because of your past? Rejection can make you question your worth and wonder whether you have a meaningful place in God's plan. The story of Jephthah in Judges 11–12 reminds us that God can work through people others dismiss. Jephthah was rejected by his own family because of his background and driven away from his home, yet Israel later turned to him for leadership during a time of crisis. His story challenges us to look beyond human judgments and remember that our value and purpose are not determined by other people's opinions. Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Meet Today’s Host: Jennifer Slattery Jennifer Slattery is a national speaker and multi-published author who regularly writes for Love Inspired publishers (fiction), Guideposts (devotions), and numerous Salem owned websites. She creates video devotions for Crosswalk Plus subscribers designed to help people break free from shame, experience increased peace amid anxiety-producing circumstances, and deepen their relational connection with the Lord. She hosts the Faith Over Fear podcast and each Friday on the Your Daily Bible Verse podcast. When not creating content, you'll likely find her reading, doing something outdoors, or spending time with her favorite people, including her husband of 30+ years and adorable fur baby, Bean, a silly, snuggly and slightly stubborn mini-golden doodle. Find out more at JenniferSlatteryLivesOutLoud.com and sign up for her free, resource-packed and biblically anchored newsletter HERE. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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Friday · 43 minEveryday Prayers with Million Praying Moms - Praying for Your Wayward Child ft. Erica Wiggenhorn
"God is a God who communicates, and God is a God who pursues." If you're a mom waiting for your child to come home to the Lord, this conversation is for you. Erica Wiggenhorn shares what Scripture taught her and how her prayers changed from "let him hit rock bottom" to "Lord, have him look up." LINKS:Freebie: Drive Time Conversations Fruit of the SpiritDownload How to Pray God's Word for Your ChildrenFollow Everyday Prayers @millionprayingmomsGet today's devotion and prayer in written form to keep for future use!Support the ministry with your $5 monthly gift through Patreon. Praying for Your Wayward Child ft. Erica WiggenhornReference: 2 Peter 3:9Prayer: Father, help me believe that you are not slow in keeping your promise to my children, but you are longing for them to come to repentance. Don't forget to order Nicolet Bell's devotional, https://a.co/d/06GRMj33.Discover more Christian podcasts at https://lifeaudio.com/ and inquire about advertising opportunities at https://lifeaudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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