Resting In The Truth Of Who You Are - T. Stacy Hayes

Podcast Summary: Resting in the Truth of Who You Are In this powerful service at Church of the Harvest, Pastor Rhonda welcomes guest speakers Stacy and Melissa Hayes to share the incredible impact of their prison ministry. The episode centers on the transformative power of the Word of God to restore lives, even in the most "impossible" situations. Key Highlights Ministry in the "Waiting Room": The service opens with a moving prayer for those facing sickness, worry, and impossible circumstances, declaring victory in the name of Jesus over every situation. The Mission of Restoration: Stacy and Melissa Hayes share testimonies from their work in Tennessee prisons (Bledsoe County and McMinn County). They read letters from inmates describing how they have shifted from a life of addiction and "religion" to a genuine relationship with Christ. "No One is Impossible": Stacy emphasizes a unique approach: he never asks inmates what they are "in for." He believes that if God has forgiven and forgotten a person's past, we should too. The Concept of "Rest": Drawing from Matthew 11:28-30, Stacy teaches that the "yoke" of Jesus is easy and light. He challenges the "evil report" of unbelief, encouraging listeners to rest in their identity as children of God rather than their past mistakes.     A Call to the "Sheep": Stacy reminds the congregation that while a pastor leads and feeds, it is the job of the "sheep" (the believers) to propagate the kingdom and reach the lost in their daily lives. Core Message: Your Past is Not Your Identity Stacy Hayes delivers a stirring message on the difference between "religion" and "relationship." He argues that many people are "church hurt" or feel unworthy because they've only been taught about their failures. "Your past will be forever connected to you as long as you're speaking about it... If God has forgotten about it, you need to forget about it. That’s the key to stepping out of the life you’ve been living." Scriptures Mentioned Scripture Theme 2 Corinthians 5:17 Being a "new creature" in Christ; the old has passed away. Matthew 11:28-30 Finding rest for your soul; the yoke is easy and the burden is light. 2 Thessalonians 1:7 God providing rest for those who are troubled or persecuted. Isaiah 52:12 The Lord going before you and being your rear guard. Closing and Altar Call The service concludes with a heartfelt invitation for those who feel "unwilling" to change. Pastor Rhonda encourages listeners to simply be "willing to be made willing," allowing God's power to bridge the gap. The congregation joins in a prayer of salvation and a special blessing for the Hayes family as they continue their mission to reach "every prodigal." "Thanks for listening! For more information, visit churchoftheharvest.com. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and YouTube @cothcleveland.