Pat's View: Inspirational stories

Acts 25: Paul Preached the Power of the Resurrection In Acts 25, Paul is brought before the new Roman governor Festus. King Agrippa comes for a polite welcoming visit. Festus asks for King Agrippa's advice concerning Paul. It's only a single sentence, perhaps Festus, the new governor of Caesarea, hardly felt it worth mentioning, but he was processing his thoughts and asking for King Agrippa's advice on Paul's case. While it might have seemed insignificant to Festus, it was and continues to be a foundational truth that every believer embraces. Let me show you what Festus said to King Agrippa about Paul's accusers. Acts 25:18 But when his accusers rose to speak, they did not charge him with any of the crimes I had expected. 19They only had some contentions with him regarding their own religion and a certain Jesus who had died, but whom Paul affirmed to be alive. Oh, Festus, if you only knew the power of that truth! JESUS IS ALIVE. You saw the problem correctly, the religious leaders didn't want what Paul believed and preached, the resurrection of Jesus, to be true. The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection, angels or an afterlife, while the Pharisees believed in the resurrection, angels and an afterlife. They didn't get along with each very well, but both the Pharisees and Sadducees agreed on one thing, they wanted to kill Jesus. BUT, when they succeeded at killing him, they couldn't keep Him dead.   Listen to what Peter says about Jesus' resurrection in Acts 2:24 But God raised Him from the dead, releasing Him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep Him in its grip. Keeping Jesus dead was impossible! The Resurrection is God's way of saying: "Yes. Everything Jesus said is true." It's like God was stamping Jesus' life and words with a divine AMEN. Because of the deep-rooted belief of the Sadducees concerning the resurrection, their teachings influenced some believers. Paul addressed the need for solid biblical teaching on the resurrection, which he covered at length, in his first letter to the Corinthians. He made it abundantly clear that the resurrection was not a whispered rumor, instead Jesus was seen by over 500 people after his resurrection. Paul preached the resurrection as a foundational truth. 1 Corinthians 15: 12 But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. 14 And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is worthless, and so is your faith. The tomb was empty! It's more than an Easter story. It's true! The reality of the resurrection changes everything. Because the tomb is empty, anything is possible! Because Jesus is alive, we have a new covenant. Hebrews 12:24 to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. If the cross is the signing of the covenant, the Resurrection is God's signature of approval. The Resurrection says: • The sacrifice was accepted • The covenant is valid • Jesus is the eternal, living Mediator of the New Covenant Hebrews 13: 20 Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, • His blood established the covenant • His Resurrection activates and sustains it The cross established the covenant, but the Resurrection guarantees it. The "new covenant" means: • forgiveness of sins • a new heart • God's Spirit living within us • a restored relationship with God • access to God without barriers Because Jesus is alive, sin is defeated. Romans 4:25 BSB He was delivered over to death for our trespasses and was raised to life for our justification. In other words: • The cross deals with sin • The Resurrection proves the deal is done Because Jesus is alive, we have access to God. Ephesians 3:12 BSB In Him and through faith in Him we may enter God's presence with boldness and confidence. I don't reiterate these things because I don't think you know them, I state them so you will access them, testify of them and walk them out in your everyday life. Dear Father, I pray the words of Hebrews 13 20, 21 Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with every good thing to do His will. And may He accomplish in us what is pleasing in His sight through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.       Stronger page on my website

If you've ever waited impatiently at the microwave or wished it would hurry up, then Acts 24 is for you. (And by the way, if you do that, you and I are on the same "wavelength". Snicker. Snicker.") Five days later Ananias the high priest, the elders and Tertullus a lawyer and skilled orator arrived in Caesarea. First, he flatters Felix, then makes 3 charges against Paul.   5 We have found this man to be a pestilence, stirring up dissension among the Jews all over the world. He is a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes,  6and he even tried to desecrate the temple; so we seized him.    10When the governor motioned for Paul to speak, he began his response: "Knowing that you have been a judge over this nation for many years, I gladly make my defense.   Paul was concise and confident. I arrived in Jerusalem to worship in the temple no more than 12 days ago. They never saw me arguing in the temple or stirring up trouble on the streets. They cannot prove I committed any of these accusations. 18 At the time they found me in the temple, I was ceremonially clean and was not inciting a crowd or an uproar. But there are some Jews from the province of Asia   19 who ought to appear before you and bring charges, if they have anything against me.    22 Then Felix, who was well informed about the Way, adjourned the hearing and said, "When Lysias the commander comes, I will decide your case."    23 He ordered the centurion to keep Paul under guard, but to allow him some freedom and permit his friends to minister to his needs.   Felix continued to call for Paul to speak with him, hoping for a bribe (Acts 24:26). Felix was deeply affected but never publicly acted on the gospel that Paul shared.   His political delay stretched Paul's detention to two full years.   So, day after day Paul WAITED. WAIT is a hard four-lettered word. It can fill days with… ·         Uncertainty ·         Impatience ·         Fear ·         Doubt ·         Pressure ·         Restlessness ·         Lack of Control ·         Silence ·         Delay   But Paul had experienced hard things before, so I believe Paul learned to roll that HARD WORD "wait" over on Jesus.   I believe that because, at his very core, Paul trusted God. His… ·         timing. ·         ability. ·         love.  He believed God could use delays for His purposes (Romans 8:28)   Paul never gives the churches a detailed emotional diary of his two‑year confinement under Felix, but he does write about his feelings, pressures, fears, and inner battles during a season of suffering.   2 Corinthians 1: 8 We do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the hardships we encountered in the province of Asia.  We were under a burden far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life.  9 Indeed, we felt we were under the sentence of death, in order that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God, who raises the dead. 10 He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and He will deliver us. In Him we have placed our hope that He will yet again deliver us,  11 as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the favor shown us in answer to their prayers.   When I tell you Paul's ministry was "hard", it was way beyond spilling your coffee on yourself as you're coming out of the drive thru! Look at his list of hardships.   Paul lists his hardships in 2 Corinthians 11 23 …in harder labor, in more imprisonments, in worse beatings, in frequent danger of death.    24 Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one.   25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked. I spent a night and a day in the open sea.   26 In my frequent journeys, I have been in danger from rivers and from bandits, in danger from my countrymen and from the Gentiles, in danger in the city and in the country, in danger on the sea and among false brothers,    27 in labor and toil and often without sleep, in hunger and thirst and often without food, in cold and exposure.   28 Apart from these external trials, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches.    29 Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not burn with grief?     Paul had plenty of opportunities to quit! But he didn't! How did he do it? Really, how did he do it?   Were there some practices or beliefs that kept him going? I know the overarching truth is Paul simply walked with God--day by day, minute by minute and when he did, God did. Almighty God walked with Paul. He met Paul right where he was--day by day, minute by minute!   In his letters I see some practical advice that I believe helped Paul to stand firm when life got incredibly hard.   He saw hardship as a process               that God uses to shape you, not an enemy to avoid.   Romans 5:2–5 BSB …And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;  4 perseverance, character; and character, hope.  5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.   He learned to receive God's Comfort 2 Cor 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort,  4who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.   Don't worry Philippians 4:6–7 NIV  Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.  His peace will guard your hearts and minds  as you live in Christ Jesus.   Lean Into the Strength of Christ Philippians 4:12 I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation— to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need.  13 I can do all things through  Christ who gives me strength   These truths were not abstract — they were lived.   Father, help us to be strong believers that dare to believe you when troubles and trials come. Remind us that you have given us weapons that work, that you have already defeated satan and that we are overcomers through the blood of the Lamb and the Word of our testimony. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

Suddenly when the sound of one word, a single word hit their ears, rage filled the very atmosphere as they screamed "Rid the earth of him! He is not fit to live!" That one word that exploded the whole place into an uproar was "gentile".   We are starting in Acts 22, but we'll end up in chapter 23. 23 As they were shouting and throwing off their cloaks and tossing dust into the air,  24 the commander ordered that Paul be brought into the barracks. He directed that Paul be flogged and interrogated to determine the reason for this outcry against him. 25  But as they stretched him out to strap him down, Paul said to the centurion standing there, "Is it lawful for you to flog a Roman citizen without a trial?"   When they were realized that Paul was a Roman, they were frightened. 29 At once those who were about to interrogate Paul stepped back, and the commander himself was alarmed when he realized that he had put a Roman citizen in chains. No beating this time.   The next morning the commander ordered the chief priests and Sanhedrin to assemble to find out why the Jews were accusing Paul. That interrogation quickly turned into a violent quarrel between the Sadducees and the Pharisees.   Acts 23:10 The dispute grew so violent that the commander was afraid they would tear Paul to pieces. He ordered the soldiers to go down and remove him by force and bring him into the barracks.   11The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, "Take courage! As you have testified about Me in Jerusalem, so also you must testify in Rome."   Take courage. The cruelty of a savage mob cannot overpower the COURAGE OF GOD in the heart of a believer. I want to say to you… TAKE COURAGE, dear child of God. You may not have seen the Lord, or a vision, (Or maybe God has given you a vision. God still gives people visions.) But if you haven't had a vision, you have promises in SCRIPTURE that God has given you. NEVER underestimate the power of the Word of God. Take that promise, that nugget from Scripture, that God has quickened in your spirit. Stand on it. Grip it. Celebrate it! Voice it!   If you don't have one that comes to mind right this second, let me share this one with you. 2 Chronicles 15:7 But as for you, be strong; do not be discouraged, for your work will be rewarded." You may feel like it's too late, but I want to remind you… It's not over until it's over. And it's not over until God says it's over.   God was preparing Paul for what would come next. Paul's enemies gathered early the next morning. "I'm not going to eat a bite of food until Paul is dead," one man determined. The others agreed. They vowed with a curse that they wouldn't eat a bite of food until Paul was dead.   "Hey, I have an idea," another suggested. "We'll, get the council to ask the chief captain to bring Paul down for questioning. We'll be waiting for him. When he passes by, we'll jump him and kill him."   16 But when the son of Paul's sister heard about the plot, he went into the barracks and told Paul.  Right time, right place to hear their diabolical plan. There are no coincidences, when you are a child of God!   17 Then Paul called one of the centurions and said, "Take this young man to the commander; he has something to tell him."   18 So the centurion took him to the commander and said, "Paul the prisoner sent and asked me to bring this young man to you. He has something to tell you."   19 The commander took the young man by the hand, drew him aside, and asked, "What do you need to tell me?"   20 He answered, "The Jews have agreed to ask you to bring Paul to the Sanhedrin tomorrow on the pretext of acquiring more information about him.    21 Do not let them persuade you, because more than forty men are waiting to ambush him. They have bound themselves with an oath not to eat or drink until they have killed him; they are ready now, awaiting your consent."   22 So the commander dismissed the young man and instructed him, "Do not tell anyone that you have reported this to me."   Quickly, the commander called for two centurions. With hurried instructions, he ordered 200 soldiers to prepare to go to Caesarea. They would be guarded by 70 horsemen and 200 spear men. "Put Paul on a mount and guard him carefully until he reaches Felix, the governor. You are to leave at 9:00."   I get so happy when I see how lavishly God takes care of situations. Those 40 men thought they had a big group ready to kill Paul the next morning, while the commander had 470 seasoned military men rescuing Paul before they ever woke up!   It was a brilliant plan, but before Paul was even born, God was orchestrating a piece of His divine protection plan for Paul. Paul's parents, were living in Tarsus when Paul was born. In Acts 22:28 Paul told the commander, "But I was born a citizen".  Because Paul was a Roman citizen he could not be flogged or executed without a trial, which explains the extreme security measures that were taken to get Paul to Caesarea.   Oh, what a big, BIG God we serve! God loved Paul, but I want to remind you that He loves and cares for you too! He knew all about you before you were ever born! He knows the number of hairs on your head. If you only realized how much He tenderly loves you, you wouldn't be worried about anything right now. He's bigger than your biggest problems. 2 Chronicles 15:7 BSB "But as for you, be strong; do not be discouraged, for your work will be rewarded." Dear Father, thank you for showing us your amazing protection plan that you designed precisely for Paul. Thank you that you are our shepherd. You protect us. You guide us in paths of righteousness for YOUR NAME'S SAKE.  Help us to be aware of your tender love and constant presence. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

We are beginning with Acts 21 and continuing the story into Acts 22. I love Scripture, but so often I wonder how the person in the story felt when they walked through the events that Scripture unfolds. In this story, I wonder… Did Paul tremble when he arrived in Jerusalem? Jerusalem! Oh Jerusalem! Such a SPECIAL place! The temple was here. Jesus walked here. He had precious relationships here. Paul had so much to tell them. He was excited to share that thousands of people had been saved. He told them about the miracles, the healings and the spiritual growth that had taken place. Paul's friends were thrilled to hear how quickly the gospel was spreading throughout the world.   Their excitement was not shared by everyone. Paul wasn't in Jerusalem very long before he was recognized in the temple by people that believed he was teaching against Moses and the law.  Some yelled, "This is the man that is teaching people everywhere beliefs that are against our law. He has brought Greeks into our holy temple. They have polluted our holy place of worship."   Their fury ignited a mob that drug Paul out of the temple into the streets. They had only one intention, getting rid of this trouble maker once and for all. They were going to kill Paul.   The whole city was stirred up. When the chief captain received the report of the turmoil, he took soldiers and centurions and ran down to the crowd. When the Jewish people saw the chief captain and the soldiers coming, they stopped beating Paul.   The chief captain arrested Paul. Paul was chained between two soldiers. "Tell me, The chief captain yelled, "Who are you? What have you done?"   The crowd answered for Paul. Some yelled one thing. Others yelled something else. When the captain couldn't understand anyone, he ordered the soldiers to bring Paul to the barracks.   Acts 21:35 When Paul reached the steps, he had to be carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the mob.    36 For the crowd that followed him kept shouting, "Away with him!"   37 As they were about to take Paul into the barracks, he asked the commander, "May I say something to you?" "Do you speak Greek?" he replied.    39 But Paul answered, "I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Now I beg you to allow me to speak to the people."   40 Having received permission, Paul stood on the steps   Here I go interrupting another verse! Put yourself into the scene. Now look at Paul and all that has just happened to him. Describe Paul for me. What do you see?   I see… A man aching with pain!  Bloody. Dirty. Clothes torn.   More important, does Paul really believe he can defuse this crowd with his words?   But why would he even try? He is literally steps away from quiet and safety…why bother with the mob that is trying to kill him? Why?   There could be dozens of reasons, but I believe his choices were fueled by Holy Spirit inspired purpose and not comfort. (Acts 20:24)   God had warned him that he would experience trouble in Jerusalem. His inner prompting of the Holy Spirit was confirmed by numerous prophecies. But Paul didn't run from the trouble.   I am convinced that the same Holy Spirit that warned him, strengthen him, empowered him to face it with wisdom and courage. Isn't that what Jesus was saying in Mark     Mark 13:11 But when they arrest you and hand you over, do not worry beforehand what to say. Instead, speak whatever you are given at that time, for it will not be you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.   Acts 21:40 Having received permission, Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. A great hush came over the crowd, and he addressed them in Hebrew: Wow! I see Paul's wisdom and God's goodness here. God saw beyond the angry mob to see each person standing as an individual with a name, with their own story. Individuals that needed to experience the saving grace of Jesus. I am inclined to look for God in every story, so I believe the great hush was a holy hush, God was with Paul. God didn't just warn Paul, He was with Paul to help him, regardless of why they grew so quiet.   Acts 22:1 BSB the story continues..."Brothers and fathers, listen now to my defense before you."    2  When they heard him speak to them in Hebrew, they became even more quiet. Then Paul declared,    3 "I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but raised in this city. I was educated at the feet of Gamaliel in strict conformity to the law of our fathers. I was just as zealous for God as any of you are today. (He is establishing himself as one of them.)   4 I persecuted this Way even to the death, detaining both men and women and throwing them into prison,    5 as the high priest and the whole Council can testify about me. I even obtained letters from them to their brothers in Damascus, and I was on my way to apprehend these people and bring them to Jerusalem to be punished.   6 About noon as I was approaching Damascus, suddenly a bright light from heaven flashed around me.    7 I fell to the ground and heard a voice say to me, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?'   8 'Who are You, Lord?' I asked. 'I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting,' He replied.    Wait a minute!! Do you hear what Paul is doing? He is preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to these people. He is sharing his testimony of the transforming power of faith in Jesus Christ. He understood the power of sharing what God had done for him.   Let me ask you, do you realize the intrinsic power of God's Word when it is shared with wisdom and love? Why did God inspire Luke to share this story with all the painful details- the beating-the pulling-chains?   Do you think maybe God is allowing us a glimpse into Paul's story so we can see Spirit filled living modeled for us?   Do you come to Scripture with that kind of bold faith? Listening, looking and searching to hear God's voice speaking to you in a personal way so that it shapes your beliefs, but also shapes the way you think and live. What does Spirit filled living look like? Are you reading your Bible with Precious Holy Spirit? Ask Him to speak to you.   For Paul it meant preaching the gospel to an angry mob when he was steps away from safety…what does it look like in your life. What is God saying to you? Get quiet and listen.   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

When you open your Bible to the Book of Acts, the title likely reads, The Acts of the Apostles. While the apostles certainly played a vital role, I am convinced Acts tells a much bigger story. From the opening pages, the book pulses with the life, power, guidance, and activity of Precious Holy Spirit. He is the One empowering ordinary men and women to do extraordinary things. He directs, speaks, comforts, warns, fills, sends, and works miracles through believers who are yielded to Him. The same Holy Spirit who hovered over the waters at Creation now hovers over the Church, bringing life, power, and purpose to God's people. Acts is not simply a record of what happened long ago; it is a living testimony of what happens when people partner with the Spirit of God. As we journey through Acts, let's resist the temptation to place these stories in a museum of church history. The Holy Spirit has not changed. God's plan for His Church has not changed. The invitation remains the same: to live Spirit-filled, Spirit-led, and Spirit-empowered lives that continue the ministry of Jesus in the earth. Acts is vibrating with the life and power of Precious Holy Spirit which resulted in the Acts of Precious Holy Spirit! Again and again, we see His gifts, the gifts of the Holy Spirit in operation. Gifts that must be plugged into His Presence and power to operate.  We see that the glorious activities of the Holy Spirit were a normal, active and essential overflow of the Spirit-filled church. We see His power, guidance and influence woven into the very fabric of how the early church operated as they fulfilled the great commission of Jesus. We see Holy Spirit throughout Scripture, but the first time we see Him is at Creation. Gen 1: 2Now the earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. The KJV says "And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.   The Topical Lexicon  rachaph "  רָחַף appears three times in the Old Testament, each occurrence portraying divine activity that is both protective and powerful. Whether describing the Spirit at creation, the faithful care of the covenant God, or the overwhelming impact of prophetic revelation, the verb underscores God's nearness in decisive moments." We see Precious Holy Spirit brooding over the believers that make up the church, teaching them, guiding them and empowering them.   Because Holy Spirit hasn't changed and God's plan for the church hasn't changed, we shouldn't try to function without His active influence, power and guidance. Galatians 3:3 Berean Standard Bible Are you so foolish? After starting in the Spirit, are you now finishing in the flesh?   You remember Philip 8Leaving the next day, we went on to Caesarea and stayed at the home of Philip the evangelist, (Eph 4:11 One of the Five-fold ministry gifts) who was one of the Seven. (Acts 6 Philip was an elder before Samaria)   Miracles and Healings were taking place throughout the book of Acts. 5 Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ to them.   6The crowds gave their undivided attention to Philip's message and to the signs they saw him perform.   7With loud shrieks, unclean spirits came out of many who were possessed, and many of the paralyzed and lame were healed.    8So there was great joy in that city. The miracles that happened in Acts is the work of the Spirit continuing the ministry of Jesus through believers. These signs show that the same power that was in Jesus is now in the church.   Throughout Acts the Holy Spirit operating not only through the leaders but also ordinary people. It was normal Spirit led, Spirit filled living. The #1 way that God speaks to believers is through the Word of God. God's Word is the foundation of our faith. We see some ways in Acts that God speaks to believers.   Look how the Holy Spirit talked to Philip. 26 Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, "Get up and go south to the desert road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." In this case God spoke to him through an angel. But look at verse 29. 29 The Spirit said to Philip, "Go over to that chariot and stay by it." The Holy Spirit spoke to him. My dear reader, if you are a born-again believer God speaks to you! Jesus said in John 10:27, "My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me."   Look with me in just a few of the times that we see God speaking to believers in Acts. ·    In Acts, the Holy Spirit speaks through: Direct voice Prophets Visions and dreams Inner promptings Scripture Community discernment Spirit‑directed circumstances   The Spirit was not silent — He was an active communicator of the early church, guiding, warning, encouraging, empowering, and sending.  He hasn't changed, but His church has.   Look at this verse. It's one of those amazing miracles that makes you scratch your head and wonder. WOW! Acts 8:39When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch saw him no more, but went on his way rejoicing.   Look at this verse; it makes me so happy! It is what Joel prophesied.   Joel 2:28 And afterward, I will pour out My Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.   29 Even on My menservants and maidservants, I will pour out My Spirit in those days.   Did you see that He included the women? I am so thankful!!!    Acts 21:9 He had four unmarried daughters who prophesied. It thrills me to see the Holy Spirit working in the next generation and women!   Acts shows us a Spirit‑filled, Spirit‑led, and Spirit‑empowered  church that acted like Jesus did; they did the works of Jesus, because it was the Holy Spirit at work, not the person. Yet Holy Spirit worked through the people in a beautiful and holy collaboration. God-breathed. God inspired. God-empowered, holy partnership.   Father, forgive us for thinking we can have the fullness of life that you planned without including Precious Holy Spirit. We need His inspiration, His infilling, His Power and His guidance. We need His presence in our homes, in our families and in our churches. Open our eyes, cause our hearts to be tender and responsive to Your voice and your ways so that we can do what You called us to do. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.  

If you knew your time with someone you loved was coming to an end, what would you say? What truths would you want them to remember? In Acts 20, Paul senses that a new and difficult season lies ahead. As he travels toward Jerusalem, he pauses to meet with the Ephesian elders one last time. His words are heartfelt, urgent, and filled with wisdom. Paul reflects on his ministry, warns of future challenges, and reminds these leaders to remain faithful to the Lord and His Word. One statement rises above the rest: Paul was determined to finish the race God had given him. His focus was not on comfort, popularity, or safety, but on completing his assignment and testifying to the grace of God. Acts 20 invites us to ask an important question: Am I living in a way that will allow me to finish my race well?   In Acts 20, we see with great transparency a beautiful and tender moment. Paul chose to sail past Ephesus, knowing that stopping there would delay him. Yet his heart remained deeply tied to the believers he had poured himself into for three years.  So when he reached Miletus, he sends for the Ephesian elders—Paul knows something is going to happen when he gets to Jerusalem and he wants to say goodbye to his dear friends, the leaders of the church that he has discipled. Acts 20:22 And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. 23 I only know that in town after town the Holy Spirit warns me that chains and afflictions await me. 24 But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus— the ministry of testifying to the good news of God's grace.   Does the call of God burn like that in your heart? Whether you are a business person, a minister, a school teacher, a stay-at-home mom or a doctor, every believer's call is important.   Does His love flow in you and through you? Deuteronomy 10:12 And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, 13and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD that I am giving you this day for your own good?   Colossians 3:17 NLT  instructs us  "And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father." Is your life filled with the purposes of God? We have "the ministry of testifying to the good news of God's grace." Your assignment will take place in a different setting, it will look different, but the focus is the same; "How can I bring glory to God?"     25 Now I know that none of you among whom I have preached the kingdom will see my face again. 26 Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27 For I did not shrink back from declaring to you the WHOLE WILL OF GOD.   Here's some important advice. 28 KEEP WATCH OVER YOURSELVES AND the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood.   Paul was talking to elders in the church, but who has God assigned to you? Are you a mom or a dad? Do you teach girls/boys discipleship? Is there a neighbor that God has laid on your heart? Who have you been assigned to influence?   We expect it from pastors, parents and grandparents, but sometimes it is comes from surprising sources, My Sunday School teacher, Marvin Denard, told us that he was praying regularly for a young person that had recently left for college. Not related in anyway, he prayed faithfully for that young college student. When we lived in North Dakota as a young military couple, an older couple in the church took us under their wing. We always had a place to go when we got homesick or there was a holiday. We were their assignment while we were there. They became like family!   Acts 20:29 I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. 30 Even from your own number, men will rise up and distort the truth to draw away disciples after them.   MORE GOOD ADVICE 31 THEREFORE BE ALERT and remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.     Sometimes telling people the Truth isn't easy. They don't always want it.   32 And now I commit you to God and to the word of His grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all who are sanctified.   Are you in the WORD? Do you feed on it, or only read enough to relieve a guilty conscience? The WORD OF GOD IS POWERFUL. It will build you up!!! (So will praying in tongues, but that's another story for another day!)   Father, help us to carefully guard our hearts and the people that you have assigned to us. Help us to speak the truth in love and to be alert to discern wolves that would scatter the sheep. Guide us and empower us to live wisely so we can fulfill our assignment. I ask you to give us a heart like Paul's that endures hardship and serves well. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

Flee from youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, together with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:22 BSB   How Do I Pursue Peace? 1. Trust God When You Are Afraid David was a giant killer, a mighty warrior, and a man who spent years being hunted by an unstable king who wanted him dead. Yet when David felt fear, he knew exactly what to do. "But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you." Psalms 56:3 NLT http://bible.com/116/psa.56.3.nlt "I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me?" Psalms 56:11 NLT http://bible.com/116/psa.56.11.nlt   "See, God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The LORD GOD is my strength and my song; he has given me victory."" Isaiah 12:2 NLT Notice the connection. David and Isaiah did not deny fear existed. They simply chose to place their trust in God when fear came knocking. Trust is one of God's greatest pathways to peace. 2. Why Should You Trust God? David and Isaiah both knew God personally. They had experienced His faithfulness. They had seen His power. They both wrote prophetically about the coming Messiah, Jesus. Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Because He is Wonderful, He can guide you. Because He is Counselor, He can direct you. Because He is Mighty God, nothing is impossible for Him. Because He is Everlasting Father, He loves you completely. Because He is the Prince of Peace, He can fill your heart with peace even in difficult circumstances.   A Glimpse of God's Greatness One of the ways we see God's greatness is through His creation. In 1990, Voyager 1 was approximately 3.7 billion miles from Earth when astronomer Carl Sagan requested that NASA turn the spacecraft around for one final look toward home. Among the images was one now known as The Pale Blue Dot. Earth appeared as a tiny speck suspended in a beam of sunlight. That tiny speck is home. That tiny speck is us. Carl Sagan later wrote: "Look again at that dot. That's here. That's home. That's us." The photograph became one of the most influential images ever taken because it reminds us how small our planet is in the vastness of space. A few amazing facts: Earth occupies less than one pixel in the image. The photograph was taken farther away than any previous image of Earth. Shortly afterward, Voyager's cameras were turned off permanently. Voyager 1 is still traveling through interstellar space today.   David wrote: "When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place, what is man that You are mindful of him?" Psalm 8:3-4   The Pale Blue Dot reminds us of two incredible truths: We are very small. Yet God knows us, loves us, and cares for each one of us. The God who created galaxies knows your name. That is a reason to trust Him. 3. Jesus Gives Us Peace "I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid. John 14:27BSB Jesus offers a different kind of peace. A peace that does not depend on circumstances. A peace that does not disappear when life becomes difficult. Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid. Colossians 3:15   Jesus Makes Us Whole But He was pierced for our transgressions, (Our rebellion against God)  He was crushed for our iniquities;  (our sins) the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, (peace of heart and mind) and by His stripes we are healed. (body) Isaiah 53:5 BSB Notice that word: Whole. Jesus purchased your wholeness. Spirit. Soul and Body. Because of what Jesus accomplished at the cross, we can have peace with God. We can know our sins have been forgiven and we are made alive unto God. Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, Romans 5:1 BSB   4. God's Divine Order Brings Peace Following Jesus is more than saying a prayer and going on our merry way. God has a divine order for our lives that brings great peace. The Earth does not bounce randomly through the heavens like an irretrievable basketball. It moves at approximately 67,000 miles per hour! Yet we never feel it because everything is moving together in an orderly, predictable way.   God designed Earth's orbit around the sun to provide: 1. Just the Right Amount of Heat Earth sits in what scientists often call the Goldilocks Zone. Too close to the sun and the oceans could evaporate. Too far away and water could freeze permanently. 2. Beautiful Seasons Winter. Spring. Summer. Fall. Each season serves a purpose.   3. A Stable Climate Earth's orbit helps maintain conditions necessary for life.   4. Our Calendar Year One complete orbit takes approximately 365.25 days.   5. A Picture of Divine Order God's creation reveals His wisdom and order. And God's order brings peace.   God's Order for Your Life But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. Matthew 6:33 BSB   When Jesus becomes the center of your life, everything else begins to find its proper place. Your decisions. Your relationships. Your future. Your goals. Your desires. Your opinions.   Everything revolves around Him. That brings peace. Peace in our hearts. Peace in our minds. Peace in our emotions. God wants peace to reign there.   God's Peace Strategy Philippians 4:6 Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need,  and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

Acts 19 Have You Received the Holy Spirit Since You Believed? Have you ever been asked a question that stopped you in your tracks? A question so important that it caused you to rethink everything you thought you knew? In Acts 19, Paul arrives in Ephesus and meets a group of believers. Instead of asking where they are from or how long they have followed God, he asks a surprising question: "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" (Acts 19:2). That question is still relevant today. Many people have believed in Jesus, but have never considered all that God has promised them through the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 19 is a powerful chapter filled with the work of the Spirit, transformed lives, miracles, and the unmistakable power of God. As we journey through this chapter, let's allow Paul's question to become personal: Have I received all that God desires for me? Acts 19 takes place while Paul is on his 3rd missionary journey. He makes it back to Ephesus, just like he had hoped God would permit him to do. He is reunited with his beloved Aquilla and Priscilla. There he found some disciples. (Used here to show they were believers, learners, and followers of Jesus.)   Why did they ask the believers if they had received the Holy Spirit? Paul asked these believers at Ephesus this question for the same reason that Jesus commanded the believers to wait in Jerusalem. God had more for the believers at Pentecost when Holy Spirit was poured out and Paul wanted to be sure these believers didn't miss it. Both groups of believers, the ones at Pentecost and this small group of believers 20 years after that Pentecost needed to be filled with Precious Holy Spirit- BOTH GROUPS!!!   And we still do! Not to make us a glorified bless me club, but to make us more like Jesus and to empower us! Now let me finish that verse.   "No," they answered, "we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit."   3 "Into what, then, were you baptized?" Paul asked. "The baptism of John," they replied.   4 Paul explained: "John's baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the One coming after him, that is, in Jesus."   5 On hearing this,  they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus.   6 And when Paul laid his hands on them,  the Holy Spirit came upon them,  and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. It has been over 20 years since the outpouring of Precious Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, but the same Holy Spirit that was poured out then was still being poured out in these believers at Ephesus with the same sign of speaking in tongues.   About the same time that the events in Acts 19 are taking place, Paul gets the bad news from Chole's household that there are some serious problems in the Corinthian church. Paul loved the Corinthian church. He was their spiritual Father. When he hears about these problems, he writes them a letter (1 Corinthians).   You can hear the warmth of a loving father's voice in his compliments as he opens his letter.   4 I always thank my God for you because of the grace He has given you in Christ Jesus.    5For in Him you have been enriched in every way, in all speech and all knowledge,  6because our testimony about Christ was confirmed in you.   7 THEREFORE YOU DO NOT LACK ANY SPIRITUAL GIFT as you eagerly await the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ.    In this letter Paul addresses: ·         Divisions ·         Pride ·         Sexual immorality ·         Spiritual Gifts Paul is discipling the people, equipping them, training them because he wanted every member of the Corinthian church to function biblically so the church would be healthy and function properly.   Paul did not want them to be uniformed about the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. They needed the gifts or God would not have given them.   Rick Renner says "The gifts of the Holy spirit confirm the Person and work of Jesus Christ. Those gifts give testimony to the fact that He is still alive, still healing, and still working miracles today."     Paul taught them what the gifts were (1 Cor 12), then he explained that love was essential (1 Cor 13). Then Paul continues in 1 Corinthians 14 1 Earnestly pursue love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy.  2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men,  but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries in the Spirit.  3 But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort.    4The one who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but the one who prophesies edifies the church.   Paul has even more to say about the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, but let me stop here. Some people believe that the Gifts of the Holy Spirit ended because of a verse in the love chapter (1 Cor 13).Let's look at it in 1 Cor 13:8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be restrained; where there is knowledge, it will be dismissed.   I am THRILLED that one day prophecies, tongues and knowledge will end. But I disagree with some dear people about WHEN that will happen.   Some people believe this verse tells us that prophecies and tongues have ceased. That means that the Holy Spirit no longer distributes them as described in 1 Cor. 12:11.   Let me ask you, do you believe that believers no longer need knowledge?   Did knowledge end? Did the revelation of who God is  in Scripture end? We can't really know God unless He is revealed to us by His Spirit. No, we need knowledge that's why we study the Bible.   If our need for knowledge didn't end, then why did our need for tongues and prophecy end? It didn't.   Let's look at the next verse. 1 Corinthians 13:9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part,    Verse 10 tells us exactly WHEN that happens… but when the PERFECT comes, the partial passes away.   WHEN does it pass away? NIV translates this verse "but when COMPLETENESS comes, what is in part disappears." The word here that is translated perfect (BSB) and completeness (NIV) is derived from 5056 /télos, "consummated goal or "from going through the necessary stages to reach the end-goal." Like a telescope is opened all the way to its end.   Revelation 10:7 BSB But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he begins to sound his trumpet, the mystery of God will be fulfilled, just as He proclaimed to His servants the prophets." The word fulfilled here is from the same root word that Paul used in 1 Cor. 13:8.   The perfect (BSB) the completeness (NIV) is the fulfillment of the mystery of God; at the completion of time, when God winds up things on the earth as we know them now.   Back to 1 Cor 13:12 Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face.  Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.   When we stand face to face with Jesus on streets of gold, the greatest knowledge that the wisest person ever contained will fade in comparison to the greatness of the wisdom that we will be able to grasp. Our earthly wisdom will be swallowed up with the vast knowledge of God that will fill us then. We won't need our limited knowledge that we had before, so it will end. We won't need prophesies, so they will stop. We won't need tongues, so they will cease.   But until that day that John talks about in Revelation, the church needs to be so filled with Precious Holy Spirit that He can pour His gifts according to His divine plan through us to meet the needs of people around us!!!   Father, I am so thankful that I can call you, Father. Thank you, that "The Father's Gift" -- Precious Holy Spirit outpouring is available for believers today. Help us to desire spiritual gifts so we will not just say nice words, but we will demonstrate God's love through signs and wonders. So that people will know that YOU still heal and deliver today! In the Mighty Name of Jesus.   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

Acts 18: Facing Opposition Have you ever felt like giving up? Perhaps you've worked hard, faced opposition, and wondered if your efforts were making any difference. If so, you'll relate to Paul in Acts 18. As this chapter opens, Paul arrives in Corinth, one of the most influential—and challenging—cities in the Roman world. He finds new friends, works with his hands to support himself, and faithfully shares the message of Jesus. Yet opposition soon arises. Just when discouragement could have taken hold…let me save that part for when we get there.   Paul didn't stay long in Athens, maybe only a few weeks. Acts 18:4 Every Sabbath he reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks alike.   5 And when Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself fully to the word, testifying to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.   6 But when they opposed and insulted him, he shook out his garments and told them, "Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent of it. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."   7 So Paul left the synagogue and went next door to the house of Titus Justus,  a worshiper of God.   8 Crispus, the synagogue leader, and his whole household believed in the Lord. And many of the Corinthians who heard the message believed and were baptized.   An interesting contrast in Acts 18 is that after many Jews opposed Paul, the synagogue leader himself believed. It is one of Luke's reminders that even in places of strong resistance, God was still drawing people to Christ. So, while Corinth was a largely Gentile city, Crispus was a Jewish synagogue leader who became a believer in Jesus. In spite of heavy opposition and discouraging situations God spoke to Paul. Acts 18:9 One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking; do not be silent.  10 For I am with you and no one will lay a hand on you, because I have many people in this city."  11 So Paul stayed for a year and a half, teaching the word of God among the Corinthians.       Later Paul writes the Corinthian church, where he opens his heart to describe the events of this visit from his perspective. It is why he could have success in spite of opposition. 1 Corinthians 2: 3 I came to you in weakness and fear,  and with much trembling.   4 My message and my preaching were not with persuasive words of wisdom, but with a DEMONSTRATION of the SPIRIT'S POWER, 5 so that your faith would not rest on men's wisdom,  but on God's power.   Have we settled for persuasiveness? Paul is explaining we need to do more than persuade people. We need more than words! We struggle to put together just the right words to convince people they need Jesus. We think…is my testimony good enough? Does my testimony have all the right words?   Is this a great message? Is it filled with all the right illustrations—Is it good enough?  But Paul says, I came to you with a demonstration of Holy Spirit power---so that your faith would not rest on men's wisdom, BUT ON GOD'S POWER.   But Paul tells us what to say  when we do use words! 1 Corinthians 2:6 Among the mature, however, we speak a message of wisdom— but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing.   7 No, we speak of the mysterious and hidden wisdom of God, which He destined for our glory before time began.   It's not hidden from us…it is hidden FOR US!   8 None of the rulers of this age understood it. For if they had,  they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.   9 Rather, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no heart has imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him."   Please do NOT stop there!  This is important. 1 Corinthians 2:10 But God has revealed it to us by the Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.   11 For who among men knows the thoughts of man except his own spirit within him? So too, no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.   12 We have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.   Who has God prepared it for?  Verse 9 says "for those who love Him"   Is that you? Then God has freely given them to you! It's up to us to be filled and stay filled with Precious Holy Spirit, so we can experience the things that Precious Holy Spirit has given to us!   Mix that promise with faith. Ask for it. Believe for it.   Father, Precious Father, you have prepared some amazing things for those that love you. Reveal them to us. Help us not to be satisfied with saying words, but let us have demonstrations of your power so people's faith will NOT rest on men's wisdom, BUT ON GOD'S POWER. Stir us to be filled to overflowing with Precious Holy Spirit so we can demonstrate your love in tangible ways. In the Mighty Name of Jesus! Amen. Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

Do you like to travel? Acts 17 takes us to 3 very different cities, let's visit them with Paul. Thessalonica sat on a deep protected harbor on the Aegean Sea. Ships from Rome, Asia Minor, Egypt and Macedonia docked there. Rome's Superhighway, The Via Egnatia, ran straight through the city making it a major travel hub. It was one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire — politically, economically, and culturally. It was a free city under Rome, which meant no Roman garrison occupied the city and local leaders governed themselves. It was culturally and spiritually diverse. The blend of cultures and religions made it a strategic city for spreading the gospel globally. Arriving in Thessalonica Paul and Silas found a large Jewish community with a synagogue where for three Sabbaths Paul discussed and thoroughly explained the gospel to the people. His overarching message was  "This Jesus I am proclaiming  to you is the Christ." 4 Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, along with a large number of God-fearing Greeks and quite a few leading women.   The Jews were jealous and stirred up a mob that sent the city into an uproar.  That night the brothers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea.   While Thessalonica was loud, political and strategic… Berea was peaceful, and tucked away. It was a tranquil place with fertile farmland, olive orchards, quiet courtyards, where families gathered, and cool streams to refresh them. When Paul describes the people as more noble; he was referring to their receptive hearts and not their heritage. When Paul preached, they listened and received the message eagerly! They weren't gullible. They were serious students, not philosophers, that searched the Scriptures for accuracy! When they saw it was true…they believed.   Their quietness was shattered when the Thessalonian Jews discovered Paul's whereabouts. They arrived personally to agitate and incite the crowds.   14 The brothers immediately sent Paul to the coast, but Silas and Timothy remained in Berea.   15 Those who escorted Paul brought him to Athens and then returned with instructions for Silas and Timothy to join him as soon as possible.   Maybe your geography and history are much better than mine, but I never realized what Paul was walking into when he arrived in Athens. Paul was born in Tarsus, which made Paul a Roman even though both of his parents were Jewish. Tarsus was a major Roman city, wealthy, strategic, and influential.   Paul didn't grow up in obscurity. He grew up in a cosmopolitan, educated, prosperous city. Ships from all over the empire docked there. It was famous for its schools. Paul grew up in a city where ideas were debated in the streets. He wasn't just spiritually sharp — he was intellectually trained. God had prepared him long before Damascus.   16 While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, Here I go interrupting another verse, but this is important. Maybe you think you know what Paul was about to experience? You've seen the pictures or maybe you have been there! You might know the grandeur and the breath-taking splendor, of the Acropolis the highest place in Athens—a massive limestone hill rising above the city, decorated with temples dedicated to the gods. The Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the other imposing marble temples stood in commanding splendor on the Acropolis—the massive high place that overshadowed the city. It was considered the spiritual heart of Athens, the place where religion, culture, and civic pride came together in gleaming marble. When Paul walked through Athens, the Acropolis dominated the skyline, its temples visible from every direction.  But dear, Dr. Luke, doesn't tell us any of that…not a single word of the ancient, magnificent beauty… Instead, he tells us what Paul FELT when he entered the city of ancient marble buildings. "he was DEEPLY DISTURBED in his spirit to see that the city was full of idols."   I need to make this very personal. When you see your city filled with idol worshippers, (Yes, our cities are filled with idol worshippers, just not the statue kind.) ·       WHAT DO YOU FEEL? o   Anything? §  Disgust? §  Frustration? §  Hopeless?   Dr. Luke used a special word here that is only used twice in the Bible. It means exasperate, but the Discovery Bible explains "to provoke feelings, spurring someone to action". Then Dr. Luke tells us what Paul did about the grief and frustration he felt when he saw a city filled with idols.   17 So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and God-fearing Gentiles, and in the marketplace with those he met each day. ·       Reasoned means ·       taught, ·       asked questions, ·       answered ·       questioned ·       LISTENED. ·       OBSERVED.   I wonder how Paul, more importantly,  how Jesus would view OUR excuses for NOT being DEEPLY DISTURBED enough to be a bold witness for Christ.   Father, Forgive us for hoarding. Help us to quit making excuses, but to begin to love you and the lost, so much that we share what we've be given-JESUS- in the church, AND in the marketplace! You have given us Holy Spirit Power to enable us, remind us to access His wisdom and His power as we go! In the Might Name of Jesus. Amen.   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

Acts 16 How Do You Respond to Difficult Situations?   What do you do when you are facing a difficult or disastrous situation? Acts 16 shows us just how important your response can be. It's important, because how you respond can change everything! This chapter shows us an amazing miracle! It's one of my favorites!   Acts 16:16 One day as we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl with a spirit of divination, who earned a large income for her masters by fortune‑telling.   17 This girl followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, "These men are servants of the Most High God, who are proclaiming to you the way of salvation!"   18 She continued this for many days. Eventually Paul grew so aggravated that he turned and said to the spirit, "In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!" And the spirit left her at that very moment.   19 When the girl's owners saw that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them before the authorities in the marketplace.   20 They brought them to the magistrates and said,  "These men are Jews and are throwing our city into turmoil   21 by promoting customs that are unlawful for us Romans to adopt or practice."   22 The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered that they be stripped and beaten with rods.   23 And after striking them with many blows, they threw them into prison and ordered the jailer to guard them securely.   24 On receiving this order, he placed them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.   I know we are only given a few details in this situation, but for just a minute I want you to put yourself in that prison along with Paul and Silas. We read the Bible too fast. To get the most from Scripture, we need to read it with Precious Holy Spirit. If we do, He will point out beautiful truths for you to enjoy and walk out in your life.   If, you were there, and you had been beaten like Paul and Silas, what would you have heard in that innermost prison at midnight?   What would you have smelled? There was no proper sanitation available there! Rat droppings? Sweaty prisoners around you?   What would you have tasted?  ·       The sweat off your face? ·       The salt from your tears? ·       Sourness from the stench in the room?   What would you have felt?   And now, the only question that really matters… ·       What would you have done?   We don't really know what we would do, do we?   But we do know is that… Acts 16:25 About midnight Paul and Silas were PRAYING and SINGING hymns to God, and the other prisoners were LISTENING to them.    Do we forget the world is listening too?     Yet, The prisoners weren't the only ones that heard their prayers and their songs of praise; no, ALMIGHTY GOD heard them and--    Acts 16:26 Suddenly a strong earthquake shook the foundations of the prison. At once all the doors flew open and everyone's chains came loose.     DID YOU SEE THAT? EVERYONE'S chains came loose!     Wow! Could it be that God is allowing you to go through some big stuff because He wants some folks to get set FREE?   Acts 16:27 When the jailer woke up and saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself,  presuming that the prisoners had escaped.   I love this part!!! Look how Paul answers the jailer. No bitterness! No hatred. This is a picture of how we answer when we have the right attitude.   Acts 16:28 But Paul called out in a loud voice, "Do not harm yourself! We are all here!"   That fact amazes me! What kept them from running off?   Acts 16:29 Calling for lights, the jailer rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas.   30 Then he brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"   Look what happens when God shows up! Acts 16:31 They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, you and your household."   32 Then Paul and Silas spoke the word of the Lord to him and to everyone in his house.   33 At that hour of the night, the jailer took them and washed their wounds. And without delay, he and all his household were baptized.   Father, help us to trust you! Thank you for the miracles, signs and healings we see in Scripture. You continue to reveal your glory and love through them even today. Help us to keep our eyes on you so we pray instead of worry. Help us to never lose sight that you are worthy of our praise even when we are walking through hard stuff. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

Can the Word of God and the Spirit of God help us in times of conflict? Conflict happens! In big churches. In little churches. And in life. We see wisdom operating in Acts 15 as people navigated through conflict. It is a beautiful strategy that can help believers navigate through conflict as well. Would you prefer to listen to this teaching? [] Acts 15:1 Then some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved."   The conflict came as a direct result of the success of Paul and Barnabas' missionary journey. Many Gentiles believed on Jesus, but these teachers believed it was Jesus PLUS circumcision. Paul was convinced and taught boldly, that there is no PLUS in the "How to be saved"; only JESUS! Galatians 5:6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. What matters is faith expressing itself through love.   But what we see next is a powerful, POWERFUL Biblical Pattern that teaches us how to deal with conflict. Acts 15 shows two major situations: A doctrinal conflict (the Jerusalem Council) A relational conflict (Paul and Barnabas) Both reveal a process that's deeply wise and spiritually grounded—one that still brings clarity, healing, and unity in today's complex world.   1. They Faced the Issue Directly (Not Avoiding It) When teachers from Judea troubled the Gentile believers, the church didn't ignore it or hope it would go away. They addressed it openly. Healthy boundary principle: Avoidance never heals—truth spoken in love does.   Acts 15:2 And after engaging these men in sharp debate, Paul and Barnabas were appointed, along with some other believers, to go up to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders about this question.   2. They Gathered Wise Voices Paul, Barnabas, the apostles, and elders all came together. No one person carried the whole burden. Healthy boundary principle: Big decisions need shared wisdom, not isolated pressure. 3. They Listened Before They Spoke Acts 15 emphasizes listening—to testimonies, to Scripture, and to the Holy Spirit. Healthy boundary principle: Listening creates clarity; rushing creates confusion. 4. They Clarified What Was Essential and What Was Not The Council distinguished between: Non‑negotiables Helpful boundaries for unity Healthy boundary principle: Healthy boundaries separate essentials from preferences. 5. They Communicated Clearly and Kindly They wrote a letter that was: clear gracious encouraging unifying Healthy boundary principle: Boundaries must be communicated with clarity and kindness. 6. They Released People When Paths Diverged Paul and Barnabas disagreed sharply over John Mark. They didn't demonize each other. They simply parted ways and continued serving God. Healthy boundary principle: Sometimes love means releasing, not forcing agreement. And later—beautifully—Paul and Mark were restored. Boundaries made room for healing. In Summary: A Healthy Boundary Process in Acts 15 Here's the pattern in one simple list: Face the issue honestly Bring wise, trusted voices into the conversation Listen deeply—to people and to the Spirit Discern what is essential vs. non‑essential Communicate decisions clearly and graciously Allow space when paths differ Leave room for future reconciliation Could it be that Acts 15 is not just church history— but it's a blueprint for emotionally and spiritually healthy relationships.   Father, you said in all our ways acknowledge you and you would direct our paths. Help us to regularly seek your will in all we do, including conflict resolutions. Guide us, help us do things your way instead of our own. In the Mighty Name of Jesus, Amen.   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

Aren't you glad the Word of God is powerful! It hasn't changed either. It is just as powerful today as it was when Luke wrote this wonderful book of Acts. God hasn't changed. He still delivers, heals and works wonders in the Earth. I am so thankful. We are in Acts 14 today. In this chapter we some of the struggles that Paul and Barnabus faced. But because they based their faith in Jesus, they had more than struggles. Let me show you a vivid picture that unfolds a magnificent promise in Isaiah 55:10-11 Here's the picture. Isaiah 55:10 For just as rain and snow fall from heaven and do not return without watering the earth, making it bud and sprout, and providing seed to sow and food to eat, You've seen the process, you know it's true! Here's the promise. Isaiah 55:11 so My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it.   Paul and Barnabas saw God's promises being fulfilled in their ministry again and again! They experienced many glorious victories, but they had to persist. It wasn't "Easy Peasy"!  Let me show you what I mean.   Acts 14:1 At Iconium, Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue, where they spoke so well that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed.    Struggle 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers.    Triumph 3 So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who affirmed the message of His grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders.   Struggle 4The people of the city were divided. Some sided with the Jews, and others with the apostles.  5But when the Gentiles and Jews, together with their rulers, set out to mistreat and stone them,    Triumph 6 they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and to the surrounding region,   Perseverance  7where they continued to preach the gospel.   8 In Lystra there sat a man crippled in his feet, who was lame from birth and had never walked.    9 This man was listening to the words of Paul, who looked intently at him and saw that he had faith to be healed.    Has that ever happened to you? I mean where God lets you see faith in a person's face and you just know that person was about to see a divine intervention of God! It is a beautiful and life changing thing. I've seen faith, I don't know how to describe it, but I've seen faith in people. I vividly remember times when I've been teaching on the Holy Spirit that I knew that they were going to be filled with Precious Holy Spirit, I saw faith. Paul saw the receiving kind of faith on the lame man as he preached.   Triumph! 10 In a loud voice Paul called out, "Stand up on your feet!" And the man jumped up and began to walk.   Don't you love this! Can you imagine how wonderful it felt to that dear man to be able to walk. Nobody prayed for him, he was just hearing the Word. There is more power in the Word of God than we realize!!! We can trust it. It is reliable. Our God still performs miracles!   What is happening here? This is unbelievable! Struggle! Acts 14:11 When the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices in the Lycaonian language: "The gods have come down to us in human form!" 12 Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes, because he was the chief speaker. 13 The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates, hoping to offer a sacrifice along with the crowds.   Never forget-  "Public opinion is a weather vane—spinning wildly with the slightest change in the wind."   Struggle! Struggle!!! 19 Then some Jews arrived from Antioch and Iconium and won over the crowds. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, presuming he was dead.   Sometimes the real Struggle is WHO are we trying to please? People?  God? Don't let the voice of the crowd dictate what you do or how you view success! The crowd will worship you one day and kill you the next!   Paul wrote to the Ephesians 1:10 at a later time "Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ."   Let's shift our focus to the power of God that shows up when we persevere 20 But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up  and went back into the city. And the next day he left with Barnabas for Derbe.   I don't think this is a glimpse of a quick recovery. The Bible doesn't give us a lot of details, but I believe these followers of Jesus, gathered around a bloody and battered man. Maybe some were knelling; some were standing aghast at what they saw. The Bible doesn't tell us whether they prayed or cried. It says, "He got up. Went back into the city. Left the next day for Derbe. Which isn't a trip for a wounded man. I believe God healed Paul. Scripture doesn't say, but what we know is he was relentless. He persevered even when he was stoned by a crowd that loved him one day and hated him quickly thereafter!   James 1:2-4 2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4 Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.   Father, we whine too much! Forgive us!! Forgive me. You said for us to consider it pure joy when we encounter trials. You said it would develop perseverance that when finished would make us mature and complete, lacking nothing. Help us to believe your word, even hard verses like this. Give us a shift in our thinking because we want your glory to rest on our lives. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

Welcome! In Acts 13 we are going to take some time to meet some people that God put together on the leadership team in Antioch. Precious Holy Spirit was building and structuring the church at Antioch. Luke tells us there were prophets and teachers: then he gives us a leadership list—Barnabas (a Levite Cyprus, prophet & teacher), Simeon Niger (likely African prophet & teacher), Lucius of Cyrene (North Africa prophet & teacher), Manaen (connected to Herod Antipas, had a privileged upbringing, became a leader in the church), and Saul (Tarsus, apostle 1 Cor. 15:9). Antioch, the third‑largest city in the Roman Empire, drew a wide variety of people—and its leadership reflected that diversity.   Joseph? I want to point out a few details about one man on that list that had a special gift that is often overlooked. His name is actually Joseph. But since you the name Joseph wasn't mentioned in that list let me explain everyone knew him as Barnabas. It was his nickname. the apostles nicknamed him Barnabas—'Son of Encouragement' (Acts 4:36–37). His generosity was unmistakable—he sold a field and brought every bit of the proceeds, placing it at the apostles' feet.   When Saul first came to Jerusalem,  he tried to join the followers of Jesus, but they were afraid of him and assumed his story wasn't true. But Barnabas stepped toward him when everyone else stepped back. He befriended Saul, brought him to the apostles, and explained what had happened on the road to Damascus and how boldly Saul had already preached the name of Jesus (Acts 9:27).   Later, in Acts 11:22, when a revival broke out among the Gentiles in Antioch, the apostles sent their trusted Barnabas to see whether this movement was truly from God. When he arrived, he immediately recognized the grace of God at work—and he encouraged the new believers to remain faithful to the Lord with all their hearts.   Acts 11:24 KJV  For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.   Now let's look at Acts 13:2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them."   3 And after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off.   4 So Barnabas and Saul, sent forth by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus.  This was their first missionary journey.   Do you see what God is putting together here? He is putting together a team much like Paul describes in Ephesians 4: 11 And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers,   12  to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ. 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ.   Marks of a Healthy, Thriving, Fruitful Church (Acts 13–14) 1. Spiritual Practices Worship Fasting Prayer Deep, active use of the Word in preaching and teaching.   2. Holy Spirit Activity Holy Spirit–filled and Embraced the prophetic Signs and wonders Discernment   3. Ministry Strength & Leadership A diverse ministry team Appointed and trained local leaders Boldness Courage Perseverance Holy Spirit–led leadership   4. Gospel Mission & Outreach Jesus was preached Evangelistic Global mission (sending out Barnabas and Paul) Cross‑cultural ministry   5. Spiritual Warfare Confronting Elymas   6. Community Life & Fruit Generosity Testimony and celebration Discipleship   Father, thank you that you have given apostles, prophets, evangelist, pastor and teachers to the church to equip the saints for the work of ministry and build up the body of Christ. We see how beautifully it operated in the church at Antioch. Stir your church today to operate in the gifts that Jesus gave to the church. Open our eyes, our hearts. Stir our faith to believe you for more. They saw so many people saved as they used the gifts you gave them, help us not to explain your power away, but be filled to overflowing with Precious Holy Spirit, so lives are impacted by the love and power of God! In the Mighty Name of Jesus! Amen.   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

I'm so thankful that you have joined me on this journey of praying through Acts. Some people think it is the story of the acts of the Apostles. But I am convinced it is the acts of the Holy Spirit! Oh yes, God used people. And that's how He works today,  Precious Holy Spirit fills believers so we can be more like Jesus.   We are in Acts 11. In the previous chapter Peter had just done something he never dreamed he would do, and the news traveled fast. The news that the Gentiles had received the word of God reached the apostles and Jewish believers, even before Peter got there. They couldn't believe the reports! When Peter arrived, they were concerned… Acts 11:3 and said, "You visited uncircumcised men and ate with them." Peter knew by eating with a Gentile, his brethren would be upset. He was accountable to these leaders so he needed to explain what had happened. Peter took this accountability seriously, so he brought the witnesses that had accompanied him to Cornelius' house with him to Jerusalem to verify his actions and his testimony to them.   4 But Peter began and explained to them the whole sequence of events:   He told them about his supernatural trance, the voice, repeated 3 times, 3 men that arrived as he was thinking about what God had just showed him…. Then he said   12 The Spirit told me to accompany them without hesitation. These six brothers also went with me, and we entered the man's home.    13 He told us how he had seen an angel standing in his house and saying, 'Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter.    14 He will convey to you a message by which you and all your household will be saved.'   15 As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, just as He had fallen upon us at the beginning.    16 Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said, 'John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.'   17 So if God gave them the same gift He gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to hinder the work of God?"   18 When they heard this, they had no further objections, and they glorified God, saying, "So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life."   The apostles and Jewish believers had the call to spread the gospel, but they weren't the only ones. Let's look what is happening in Antioch.   19 Meanwhile those scattered by the persecution that began with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the message only to Jews.  20 But some of them, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began speaking to the Greeks as well, proclaiming the good news about the Lord Jesus.    Antioch was a major city in the Roman Empire, known for its diverse population; it was a cultural and commercial hub.   But some of them… Ordinary men…not elders or apostles. Regular folks like me and you. Thank you Jesus, that some of them saw past tradition or maybe they were so focused on Jesus that they simply overflowed with love and naturally shared the message of Jesus with everyone they met which just happened to include Gentiles.   21 the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.   These men were living out the mandate that Jesus left them. Maybe you're thinking," If God's hand was on me like that, then I would be a better witness too!"    But wait a minute. Do you think that they felt God's hand on them before they started sharing the love of Jesus? I'm not saying God doesn't lead us to people, but sometimes we don't see God's hand until we obey the Word of God and then we see the results as God's hand was with us.   Sharing our faith is just what believers do! By obey I mean, there's a whole bunch of places where Scripture tells us "You will be my witnesses" in different wording sometimes, but with the same mandate. These verses are there to be obeyed.   The big old monster of prejudice had fallen, not that the enemy doesn't try to rebuild it again in believers throughout the generations. But we can't let the enemy do that in us and when we see it in others we must pray and use our influence.   Rom 2:11 For God does not show favoritism. 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. Behold, the new has come! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: Father, thank you for Peter's influence that opened the eyes of leaders to recognize that God does not show favoritism. Because we have been reconciled to God through Christ, use us to walk in the ministry of reconciliation by helping people be born into your family and discipled in your Word. Make us more like You Jesus. Fill us to overflowing with your Spirit so we have the power to show and tell of Your goodness and power. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen!!   Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves. —James 1:22   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

  Welcome! I'm so glad you are going me on this journey to pray through Acts. In Acts 10 we see 2 devout God-fearing men. Both were men of prayer. Each of the two men experienced a powerful vision which included clear instructions. Their obedience would take each of them out of their comfort zone. They were about to learn something on a personal level that they needed desperately. God was preparing both men for what He was about to do.    The first man is Cornelius, a centurion in the Italian Regiment. In his vision he was told  Acts 10:5 Now send men to Joppa to call for a man named Simon who is called Peter.  6 He is staying with Simon the tanner, whose house is by the sea."   Cornelius obeyed quickly by sending 2 servants and a devout soldier from among his attendants. Did he feel a soldier was necessary for his servant's protection???   The next day as Cornelius servants were entering Joppa,   Peter the second man in this story, you already know as one of the disciples of Jesus. He is on the roof praying. He's hungry and it seems that God is using his hunger to teach him a truth that would change his ministry.   Scripture tells us "he fell into a trance". I don't understand the ins and outs of how this is different than a vision, but I can tell you it was a powerful God encounter.   He saw heaven open and something like a sheet filled with all kind of animals, reptiles and birds. Some that could be eaten and some that were forbidden by the law. Acts 10:13 Then a voice said to him: "Get up, Peter, kill and eat!"   14 "No, Lord!" Peter answered. "I have never eaten anything impure or unclean."   15  The voice spoke to him a second time: "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean."   16 This happened three times, and all at once the sheet was taken back up into heaven.   17 While Peter was puzzling over the meaning of the vision, the men sent by Cornelius found Simon's house and approached the gate.   Notice Peter's response to his vision. He doesn't understand what God is saying to him, so he tries to process what he saw. This is an important step that we need to take when God speaks to us in other ways as well.   Acts 10:18 They called out to ask if Simon called Peter was staying there.   19 As Peter continued to reflect on the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Behold, three men are looking for you.    20 So get up! Go downstairs and accompany them without hesitation, because I have sent them."   21 So Peter went down to the men  and said, "Here am I, the one you are looking for. Why have you come?" 22 "Cornelius the centurion has sent us," they said. "He is a righteous and God-fearing man with a good reputation among the whole Jewish nation. A holy angel instructed him to request your presence in his home so he could hear a message from you."   God was opening Peter's eyes. Moses had given the law that the Jews should not marry a Gentile, but the traditions of man broaden the influence of that law to limit contact with Gentiles to business transactions only. Their traditions and beliefs prevented them from eating with or holding a friendly conversation with a Gentile. The apostles confined their ministry to the Jews and people that had become circumcised proselytes. This was a dangerous mindset for the church with a global mandate.   Three times God repeated the vision Peter saw. Three times he heard the voice say, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." God was telling him that the prejudice, the barriers between the races had to come down. The old traditions of man had to go.   Acts 10 23 So Peter invited them in as his guests. And the next day he got ready and went with them, accompanied by some of the brothers from Joppa. Peter was listening. Peter went to Cornelius house, disregarding the religious traditions that he had kept since childhood. He didn't go alone; he took witnesses with him.   Acts 10:27 As Peter talked with him, he went inside and found many people gathered together.  28 He said to them, "You know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with a foreigner or visit him. But God has shown me that I should not call any man impure or unclean. The Gospel was not for the Jew only, but for the whole world. (Romans 3:29)   What a powerful revelation! Does that hit you like it does me? Do not call any man impure or unclean.     Oh Father, help us to walk this truth out in a practical way. Help us to see everyone through the lens of your love. Not compromise, but who they can become through faith in Jesus. Help us to overflow with Your love. You said in Romans 5:5 BSB "…God has poured out His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us." Help us to love each other the way you love us. (John 13:34)   29 So when I was invited, I came without objection. I ask, then, why have you sent for me?"   Cornelius needed Jesus. He and all his family and friends needed to hear the message Peter carried. They needed to hear the salvation message of the saving grace and power of Jesus Christ! Jesus is the only way to be saved. There are people that need to hear the message you carry too! Your testimony of the faithfulness of God needs to be heard. Are there barriers that hinder that message?   Cornelius told Peter what had happened to him and why he had sent for Peter to come. 33 So I sent for you immediately, and you were kind enough to come. Now then, we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has instructed you to tell us."   34 Then Peter began to speak: "I now truly understand that God does not show favoritism,    35 but welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right.   36 He has sent this message to the people of Israel, proclaiming the gospel of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.   Then Peter unfolded the message of Jesus, the anointed one, the healer, deliverer and forgiver of sins with the group that was gathered. 44 While Peter was still speaking these words,  the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard his message.    45 All the circumcised believers who had accompanied Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles.    46 For they heard them speaking in tongues and exalting God.   Thank you, Father, for giving this group of Gentile believers, the Gift of the Holy Spirit. They spoke with tongues. Lord, the Jewish believers were shocked. But help us not to be shocked or surprised when you give believers the Gift of the Holy Spirit today. Cause us to be hungry for more of you to like Cornelius wanted more. Stir our hearts because when we seek You we will be filled. Thank you, Father. In the Mighty Name of Jesus, Amen. Want To Be Stronger? Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.

Wow! I am awed every single time I read the account of Saul's miraculous and spectacular encounter with God on the road to Damascus. "Seeing The Light" takes on a brand-new meaning when you see what God did in Saul's heart. Saul was changed on that Damascus Road encounter! It was amazing! It was public! It was spectacular! Wow! I love to see and hear of radical transformations. • He entered full of fury; he left full of the fear of God. • He entered with a hand full of authority; he left led by the hand like a child. • He entered to arrest believers; he left arrested by Jesus Himself. • He entered seeing everything but the truth; he left blind to everything but the truth. 9For three days he was without sight, and he did not eat or drink anything. 10 In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. Here I go interrupting a verse again! A disciple according to HELPS Word-studies is a learner; a follower of Christ who learns the doctrines of Scripture and the lifestyle they require) Not an apostle. Not an elder. An ordinary follower of Jesus. He didn't have any special training. He seems to come out of nowhere. God could do it all by Himself, yet He often chooses to use people. He wasn't in the temple. Yet God spoke to him in a vision. Paul says this about Ananias in Acts 22:12There a man named Ananias, a devout observer of the law who was highly regarded by all the Jews living there, Now continuing verse 10 The Lord spoke to him in a vision, "Ananias!" "Here I am, Lord," he answered. 11"Get up!" the Lord told him. "Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight." 13But Ananias answered, "Lord, many people have told me about this man and all the harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14And now he is here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on Your name." 15"Go!" said the Lord. "This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings, and before the people of Israel. 16 I will show him how much he must suffer for My name." 17So Ananias went to the house, and when he arrived, he placed his hands on Saul. "Brother Saul," he said, "the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here, has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit." He did exactly what God said to do. Simple obedience. Not easy, but simple. Yes, it was scary obedience. No fireworks. No crowd. Nothing spectacular...a godly man privately walking in obedience. And when Ananias obeyed, God showed up in a supernatural way! 18At that instant, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and his sight was restored. He got up and was baptized, 19and after taking some food, he regained his strength. And he spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. I'm not chasing the spectacular, but I am pursing with all my heart my Father, Almighty God, Who still shows up in supernatural ways to deliver, heal and reveal Himself to hurting and hungry people. Father, thank you that you speak to and partner with ordinary believers. Help us to lean in to hear what you are saying in Scripture and to our spirits. Help us to obey You, Your Word, Your guidance, even when it is hard and scary. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen. Wow! I am awed every single time I read the account of Saul's miraculous and spectacular encounter with God on the road to Damascus. Seeing "The Light" takes on a brand new meaning when you see what God did in Saul's heart. Saul was changed on that Damascus Road encounter! He entered full of fury; he left full of the fear of God. He entered with a hand full of authority; he left led by the hand like a child. He entered to arrest believers; he left arrested by Jesus Himself. He entered seeing everything but the truth; he left blind to everything but the truth.    9For three days he was without sight, and he did not eat or drink anything. 10 In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. Here I go interrupting a verse again! A disciple according to HELPS Word-studies [1]is a learner; a follower of Christ who learns the doctrines of Scripture and the lifestyle they require) Not an apostle. Not an elder. An ordinary follower of Jesus. He didn't have any special training. He wasn't in the temple. Yet, God spoke to him in a vision. Paul says this about him in Acts 22:12There a man named Ananias, a devout observer of the law who was highly regarded by all the Jews living there,    Now continuing verse 10 The Lord spoke to him in a vision, "Ananias!" "Here I am, Lord," he answered.   11"Get up!" the Lord told him.  "Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying.    12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight." 13But Ananias answered, "Lord, many people have told me about this man and all the harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem.   14And now he is here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on Your name."   15"Go!" said the Lord.  "This man is My chosen instrument  to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings,  and before the people of Israel.   16 I will show him how much he must suffer for My name."   17So Ananias went to the house, and when he arrived, he placed his hands on Saul. "Brother Saul," he said, "the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here, has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit."   He did exactly what God said to do. Simple obedience. Not easy, but simple. Yes, it was scary obedience. No fireworks. No crowd.   Yet God showed up in a supernatural way! 18At that instant, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and his sight was restored. He got up and was baptized, 19and after taking some food,  he regained his strength. And he spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. I'm not chasing the spectacular, but I am pursing with all my heart my Father, Almighty God, Who still shows up in supernatural ways to deliver, heal and reveal Himself to hurting and hungry people.   Father, thank you that you speak to and partner with ordinary believers. Help us to lean in to hear what you are saying in Scripture and to our spirits. Help us to obey You, Your Word, Your guidance, even when it is hard and scary. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. [1] Copyright © 2021 by Discovery Bible.

Acts 8:1 And Saul was there, giving approval to Stephen's death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. And those that were scattered preached the Word ever where they went. Phillip went to a city in Samaria and began to preach Jesus to the people. Most commentaries believe that this was not the apostle, but one of the 7 elders listed in Acts 6:5. That might be true because Acts 8:1 says "all except the apostle were scattered" which leaves me to believe that the apostles remained in Jerusalem. Peter calls Phillip an evangelist. Acts 21:8 6The crowds all paid close attention to Philip's message and to the signs they saw him perform. 7With loud shrieks, unclean spirits came out of many who were possessed, and many of the paralyzed and lame were healed. 8So there was great joy in that city. This makes me so happy to see that the Holy Spirit is using an ordinary man to deliver the captive, heal the sick and perform mighty signs. 12But when they believed Philip as he preached the gospel of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13Even Simon himself believed and was baptized. He followed Philip closely and was astounded by the great signs and miracles he observed. Luke gives us some important details about Simon. He practiced sorcery. He did some things that completely astounded the people. He claimed to be someone great and the people from the least to the greatest heeded his words and called him the Great Power. This was before he knew Christ. After he believed and was baptized, he followed Phillip closely. It was Simon's turn to be amazed! Simon saw Precious Holy Spirit at work through a man that loved Jesus…great signs and miracles. 14When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. (The Word has to be received and mixed with faith to transform us.) 15 On their arrival, they prayed for them to receive the Holy Spirit. 16For the Holy Spirit had not yet fallen upon any of them; they had simply been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. This is one of 5 initial outpourings of the Holy Spirit. By that I mean the first time they received the gift of the Holy Spirit. They were already believers, they were born of the Spirit, but they had not received the Gift of the Holy Spirit. 17Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. The Gift of the Holy Spirit must be received and these people received. Did they speak in tongues? The Bible does NOT say they spoke in tongues, but I believe they did. Let me tell you why? Scripture shows us 5 times where people are filled with the Holy Spirit. Acts 2; Acts 8; Acts 9; Acts 10 and Acts 19. Scripture plainly tells us in 3 of the 5 times that we see the initial infillings that they spoke with tongues. One of the 5 times is when Saul was filled with the Holy Spirit. While it does not mention that he spoke in tongues in the verses there, he tells us later that he speaks in tongues more than you all. Back to Simon. Something extraordinary happened because Simon saw that the Spirit was given. 18When Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money. His desire was wrong! Very wrong. It pointed to a deeper issue in his heart. Peter called him out and warned him strongly! I'm going to stop here, because I want to point out something that I think is often missed. What happened when the believers received the Holy Spirit that was so extraordinary that Simon would actually pay money to have the ability to lay hands on them so that they would receive the Holy Spirit??? What did he see? What did he hear? What did he experience that made him want that power? I believe he saw something that would resemble the Day of Pentecost. And one of the things that was happened and has continued from the day of Pentecost was speaking in tongues. You can go to Acts 8:20 and beyond to read the rest of the story. Father, thank you for the example that Phillip set for today's believers. I pray that Precious Holy Spirit would fill us to overflowing so that we can be a bold witness, see people born again, captives set free and the sick healed. Help us not to miss your best. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.

In Acts 7 Stephen is surrounded by an angry crowd, stirred up by false witnesses and jealous religious leaders, the high priest turned to Stephen and asked, "Are these charges true?" The charges were that he had blasphemed God and Moses. 2And Stephen declared: "Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran, Stephen calls them brothers and fathers. This was a heartfelt gesture, not a deceptive device to calm them down. The God of glory appeared to our father. Stephen begins his defense by affirming shared faith and shared heritage. When he calls Abraham "our father", Stephen was: Identifying himself as a faithful Jew. Affirming that he honored the same Scriptures they honored. Grounding his defense in Scripture He was saying "I'm not rejecting our heritage. I am showing you where our heritage has always been pointing." Then he continues building a bridge before offering correction. He points out the repeated rebellion of the people. 35This Moses, whom they had rejected with the words, 'Who made you ruler and judge?' is the one whom God sent to be their ruler and redeemer through the angel who appeared to him in the bush. 37This is the same Moses who told the Israelites, 'God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your brothers.' Stephen is referring to Moses' Prophecy in Deut. 18:15 New Living Translation Moses continued, "The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him. Peter refers to this prophecy in Acts 3:12 Moses is prophesying and pointing them to Jesus. There is no opposition between Moses and Jesus. They were blinded because they wanted power and they wanted things their way. There seems to be a sudden directness in Stephen's message. Maybe he could see anger and sensed that they were about to end his defense or maybe he shifted because of a prompting of the Holy Spirit, regardless of why, Stephen comes directly to the heart of what he needed to say. 51 You stiff-necked people with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit, just as your fathers did. This is a picture of a stubborn oxen that refuses to turn its head, even when it is tugged on, determined to do what it wants. Helps Word-studies tells us uncircumcised as used in this verse signifies "alienated from God" (rebelliously opposed to Him). Hearts that are hard and ears that refuse to hear. By using both heart and ears Scripture is exposing the resistance to God and His Word. Stephen spoke the Truth, tragically, instead of humbling their hearts to repent and believe on Jesus, they were enraged and murdered the messenger. Do you ever see things in Scripture that you don't like? I have. I have seen things that seemed so hard to walk out! Sometimes, I see things that I want to ignore. I've had times that I didn't want to trust God. When I or we, ignore what He says, we are hardening our hearts and dulling our ears. That is a tragic path for a believer to follow. Father, give us a tender heart that submits to you and the authority of your Word. Give us ears that hear, even when you want to remove things, attitudes, beliefs or people out of our lives. You say if we love you, we will obey your commandments. Thank you, Father. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.

I hope you are doing well. I'm always so thankful to have this time with you.   Have the last few weeks (months) been hard? Problems?  Dizzying situations that make your mind swirl?  Frustrating people? Heartbreaking circumstances.    All around you?  Every whicha way you look? World Problems.  Political Problems.  Church Problems.  Family Problems. Sickness. Loss.    Anger.  Sin.  Just plain ole debauchery in the news, cities, played out in movies, television shows and conversations!   Fear.  Worry.  Get on Facebook…you see it.   You hear it in the grocery store...  high prices,  poor quality,  What should we eat?   What's a person supposed to do? I'm so glad you asked.    I can answer quickly because I'm feeling the heaviness too!     Everyone tells us it is just the last days, there's nothing we can do.      But there's one thing that isn't being mentioned very often, but before I tell you what that one thing is…   Can I please explain what I mean with a story? Years ago, we were in the Grand Canyon.      I am one of those people that wants to read every sign and see everything there is to see. One sign showed a specific mountain peak that could be seen from that spot. It gave some brief details about the peak. I looked, but I couldn't see it.    Everything looked all alike to me.      A viewing scope! Then I noticed what l thought was a viewing scope or monocular of some type pointed across the canyon on a nearby platform. But when I got there it was only a piece of pipe fixed in the exact direction of the peak. I looked through the pipe and saw the peak perfectly!    I didn't need a special lens. I just needed a refocus in the right direction.   It's easy to focus on what is wrong with the world! It's Loud.  Pushy!  Chaotic!   But it's life changing when we focus in the right direction! Lift your eyes! Focus on the answer,    Yes, it's end times.  I believe that. Do you?   Scripture tells us there will be some terrible things that would happen.  That's true and we are seeing some heart breaking stuff. But…   Can we refocus here for just a minute…  cause if we don't, we are going to miss a wonderful opportunity. We can't afford to get discouraged and fail to accomplish what God has for us to do.   Here's something to focus on,    and here's what not enough folks are talking about Joel was given a prophecy that Peter declared in his sermon on the day of Pentecost.    Acts 2:17 In the last days,  God says, I will pour out  My Spirit  on all people.   Refocus on this truth! "I WILL POUR OUT MY SPIRIT"   There isn't a single problem that doesn't have to bow to the Name of Jesus!     Philippians 2: 9 BSB  Therefore God exalted Him  to the highest place  and gave Him the name  above all names,  10 that at the name of Jesus  every knee should bow,  in heaven  and on earth  and under the earth,    11and every tongue confess  that Jesus Christ is Lord,  to the glory of God the Father   Jesus is still the answer. God hasn't fallen off the throne. Almighty God is still all powerful. He still answers prayer.   Nothing!  Nothing is too hard for Him! He is Jehovah Jireh!!!   Amos 4:13 For behold, He who forms the mountains,  who creates the wind and  reveals His thoughts to man,  who turns the dawn to darkness  and strides on the heights of the earth— the LORD, the God of Hosts, is His name."     When I look for problems I find them,  The other side of that is also true! When I look for answers, I find them.      And when I know the answer to the problem, I get excited.  I was one of those kids that waved like crazy when I knew the answer!    My dear friend, you know the answer, so shake off the heaviness, Pray. Release your faith and  Give God praise!     Don't wait to  'FEEL' excited!  Praise Him until His victory "fills" the situation.   Praise Him for the victory, because He has already won!!!     Nehemiah 1:5 Then I said: "O LORD, God of heaven,  the great and awesome God  who keeps His covenant  of loving devotion with those  who love Him and keep His commandments,   Do you realize… The doctor doesn't have the final word. Your bank account doesn't have the final word…  Your enemy doesn't have the final word…        unless you lay down and quit.   Believe God. Pray the Word of the situations you are facing or those God puts on your heart!!! Pray and praise. There is power in prayer. There is power in the Word of God!     We need His Holy Anointing on us and flow through us to bring light to a dark, dark world.   Matthew 5:14, 15 14You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.  15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they set it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house

Acts 6 introduces us to Stephen. Stephen's name, according to NAS Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible means crown. He is known in history as the first Christian martyr. He was chosen by his peers to serve as one of 7 elders to serve the needs of the people. He was known by them as a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit. Look how God describes him in Scripture. 8Now Stephen, who was full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people. He wasn't an apostle. He wasn't even an elder when he began to do the same miracles Jesus did. He didn't need a title, or a position or a job; He needed to be full of the Holy Spirit. And that he was!  9But resistance arose from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen, including Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and men from the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. They disputed with Stephen, 10but they could not stand up to his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke. So, they stirred up a crowd with false accusations that brought him before the Sanhedrin. When they looked in his face, it looked like the face of an angel. Acts 7: 1Then the high priest asked Stephen, "Are these charges true?" Stephen's answer began with Abraham, continued with Moses; then he preached all the way to Jesus. 54 On hearing this, the members of the Sanhedrin were enraged,  and they gnashed their teeth at him. This is important!!! Things were spiraling out of control (man's control). Where was Stephen looking?  55But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked intently into heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. He told them what he saw! 56"Look," he said, "I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God." What ya lookin' at? When you are facing difficult situations, where do you fix your eyes? I'm not talking about your natural eyes. You may not have a heavenly vision of seeing Jesus, but you can fix your eyes on the Word. I am convinced Stephen did both. There is something incredibly important happening here. Jesus told his disciples in Luke 22:69 BSB But from now on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God." Seated. Jesus said and numerous scriptures repeat the reality that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God. But when Stephen sees Jesus, Jesus is not seated; He is standing. I believe He is standing because He is cheering for Stephen. Jesus knows that Stephen's race is almost over. Stephen has been faithful and Stephen has a victor's crown waiting for him. It is easy and perhaps normal for people to feel sorry for Stephen. Poor, Stephen. Why do bad things always happen to such good people? I get it. I totally get it…I've been there. Done that. But what I (we??) sometimes lose sight of and Stephen never lost sight of, is…JESUS! The actions of these people were horrible!!! But Stephen stepped into Heaven. A real place that is really beyond anything we can image. We have no capacity to comprehend the place Jesus has prepared for Stephen and every believer. But far above and beyond anything we might experience in that beautiful place is the reality that we will see JESUS!!!! As I pray through this chapter with you, I'm going to pray some words of a precious old hymn, "It Will Be Worth It All". Father, help us to keep our eyes on Jesus, because I know it will be worth it all when we see Jesus! Father, I thank you that Life's trials will seem so small when we see Christ. One glimpse of his dear face, all sorrow will erase. So, help us to bravely run the race till we see Christ. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.

Acts 5 gives us a vivid close up of three very different groups of people. There is lots we could say about the deceptiveness of Ananias and Sapphira. Or the blindness and jealousy of the religious leaders. Their stories are important because they warn us to make different choices. But I want to take you to a wonderful miracle in this chapter. It is one of those events that when I get to Heaven, I want to hear every little detail. Do you have some people you are anxious to listen to when you get there? Acts 5:12The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people, and with one accord the believers gathered together in Solomon's Colonnade.   16Crowds also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those tormented by unclean spirits, and all of them were healed.   Fueled by jealousy the Sadducees arrested the apostles. Not just one, but all of them.   Are you ready for this? 19But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out, saying,  20"Go, stand in the temple courts and tell the people the full message of this new life." 21At daybreak the apostles entered the temple courts as they had been told and began to teach the people.   When the high priest and his associates arrived, they convened the Sanhedrin—the full assembly of the elders of Israel—and sent to the jail for the apostles.  When they got to the prison, the guards were still standing their post. The doors were still locked. But the apostles were gone. I can only imagine how shocked they were! It was unexplainable. How does something like this happen? They must have felt confused and frustrated. I wonder if the room was filled with both angry comments and fearful, whispered discussions. In the middle of the confusion, someone burst in the door announcing, "They're at the temple courts. The men you put in jail! They're teaching the people!   26At that point, the captain went with the officers and brought the apostles—but not by force, for fear the people would stone them.  27They brought them in and made them stand before the Sanhedrin, where the high priest interrogated them.  28"We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name," he said. "Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us responsible for this man's blood." Can you hear the hatred for the Gospel in their warning? Or their fear in accusation "are determined to make us responsible for this man's blood."   How could these leaders be so blinded to Jesus? It's tragic. They knew the Scripture so well, but missed Jesus. But I have some great news. Acts 6: 7 "So the word of God continued to spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem grew rapidly, and a great number of priests became obedient to the faith." (That's just one example of why we can't quit.)   29But Peter and the other apostles replied, "We must obey God rather than men."  That truth has not changed, "We must obey God rather than men."    Father, help us not to be hearers only, but to be doers of your Word. Help us to live daily, choice by choice, with the desire and priority, "We must obey God rather than men."  In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.

Acts 4 takes us to a group of very upset spiritual leaders. A miracle that shook the city had occurred, but they are upset because Peter had proclaimed the message of Jesus' resurrection and people had believed…5,000 people had believed! 5,000!   If you're not a believer in Jesus that might be a reason to be upset. How could Jesus still be doing miracles after they had him executed?  Unbelief comes at a terrible and tragic cost.   These religious leaders had to stop Peter and John. More rulers, elders and scribes assembled in Jerusalem to question Peter and John. Look at how Peter answered their questions. 8Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit,  said to them, "Rulers and elders of the people!    9If we are being examined today about a kind service to a man who was lame, to determine how he was healed,  10then let this be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed.    12 Salvation exists in no one else,  for there is no other name  under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."   16"What shall we do with these men?" they asked. "It is clear to everyone living in Jerusalem that a remarkable miracle has occurred through them, and we cannot deny it.    17But to keep this message from spreading any further among the people, we must warn them  not to speak to anyone in this name."   Have we listened to the same advice they got? There is a social norm that says "Never talk about religion or politics." But have we allowed a social norm to cause us to stop talking about Jesus?   I get it! Do we need wisdom? Do we need love? Absolutely. Absolutely!! BUT… does our need to love more and better drive us to our knees for more of Jesus? Does it inspire us to make wiser choices, to walk in God's love in all our encounters with people or is it a gigantic STOP sign that causes us to clam up?   Look at the first part of verse 8 again… 8 "Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit,…" When we are FILLED with the Holy Spirit it changes what we do and how we do it.   Father, oh, my dear Father, forgive me for listening to the voice of a social norm instead of being so full of Your Spirit that I overflow with the love of God enough to speak the Truth in Love to people that don't know You. I want to be so full of Your Spirit that I boldly share Your Love and Truth everywhere I go. Create hunger in our hearts, God! A hunger to see people that don't know you born again and to see miracles, signs and wonders that reveal your goodness to them in a very real way. In the Mighty Name of Jesus! Amen.

In Acts 3 it is 9:00 in the morning and two men are headed to the temple to pray. Their pace is interrupted when a lame man asks them for money. They don't look away uncomfortably avoiding him. Instead, Peter and John look at him. Peter says, "Look at Us!" So, the man looked, expecting to receive something...something? 6 BSB But Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have,  but what I have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!" 7Taking him by the right hand, Peter helped him up, (I never saw the gentleness of this action before…helped. What word does your translation use there?)  and at once the man's feet and ankles were made strong.  8He sprang to his feet and began to walk.  Then he went with them  into the temple courts, walking and leaping and praising God. 9When all the people saw him walking and praising God,  10they recognized him as the man who used to sit begging at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him. 12And when Peter saw this, he addressed the people: "Men of Israel, why are you surprised by this? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?   Peter continues to explain what happened. 16By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know has been made strong. It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through Him that has given him this complete healing  in your presence.   What do we see here? A miracle! Bold faith! An amazed crowd! The Gospel shared! We see faith mentioned twice. 1.      Faith in the NAME OF JESUS! 2.      The faith that comes through Jesus. Thank you, Father, that the Mighty Name of Jesus has not lost its power. Help us to remember, help us to believe, really believe that through your name the sick is healed and creative miracles take place. Give us the boldness to act on what we believe. In the Mighty Name of Jesus! Amen.

I hope you are doing well! Thank you for joining me. I'm on Day 2 of Acts.   When He first started talking to me all I heard was a single word, "Overflow." I thought of David's declaration in Psalm 23:5 BSB "My cup overflows." I began to think about the verse and because I love beautiful table settings, I could easily imagine what a grand and elegant table that He might set for me in the presence of my enemies. David was expressing more than a pretty table or great food.   I believe that David was expressing that in the midst of difficult situations and trouble God provides, not just a little dab, but lavishly; abundantly until it overflows. At this point I'm remembering a 2nd picture   that takes me to Wayne's childhood visits to his grandpa's house. His grandma would boil the coffee on the gas stove in an old, dented aluminum coffee pot with a glass knob on top of the lid. When the coffee had boiled to her satisfaction, she carefully placed the cup in a saucer, filled it and carried it to Pa.   Pa did something that amazed my husband. He lifted the cup off the saucer and pour the boiling hot liquid into the saucer. The coffee cooled quick enough that his Pa could slurp the coffee from his saucer.   But I don't believe the overflow that puddles into the saucer is there for me to consume like Pa did his morning coffee! I believe the overflow is for giving away! Over again and again I felt the prompting of Holy Spirit, Overflow!   This is the year of overflow. I'm going after the overflow!!! I realize that overflow, flows out of an intimate relationship with Jesus.   Please let me show you how He describes overflow. John 7:37 On the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood up and called out in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink.   38 Whoever believes in Me, as the Scripture has said: 'Streams of living water will flow from within him.'" (Talking about overflow!!!! Wow!)   39He was speaking about the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were later to receive. For the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet been glorified.   Glorified? Crucified. Resurrected. Ascended to the right hand of the Father. Glorified!   Pour Out Joel, Isaiah and John, the Baptist, Prophesied of the great outpouring. The Father Promised it, Jesus Proclaimed it and on the Day of Pentecost Peter Explained it when they were accused of being drunk.   16No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:   17'In the last days, God says, I will pour out My Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.   18Even on My menservants and maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. Jesus has a different role!   33Exalted, then, to the right hand of God, He has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear.   Can you imagine? Can you imagine what you would have heard? Yes, there was tongues, but there were people, lots of people praising and magnifying God! Yet Peter didn't limit the event to what they heard, because this outpouring touched more than their vocal cords…look again at what Peter says…"and has poured out what you now see and hear.   What did they see? People responding to the Father's Promised Gift. Responding to Jesus' mighty outpouring. Who is this Promise for? Peter tells us.   Acts 2: 39 English Standard Version For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself."   My prayer: Father, help us to believe Your promise is for us, so that Your lavish outpouring can overflow through us, so we can be the witnesses that you have called us to be! Help us to be thirsty for living water! In Jesus Mighty name, Amen.    

Praying Through Acts: Acts 1 But you will receive power when   I'm praying through Acts this February. 28 days and 28 chapters in Acts. I've done it before, but this time it is because God is dealing with my heart about overflow! It occurred to me that you might want to pray with me! The followers of Jesus experienced the heartbreak of the death of Jesus. When they heard Jesus utter "It is finished," they had no idea of the scope and breath of what Jesus had finished for all believers, even in generations to come! While they couldn't grasp the reality of His resurrection, still death could not hold Jesus. Jesus is the resurrection and the life! (John 11:25) Acts 1:3 BSB After His suffering, He presented Himself to them with many convincing proofs that He was alive. He appeared to them over a span of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. Paul tells us that over 500 people saw with their very own eyes that Jesus was alive after He died and was buried. 1 Corinthians 15:6. It was time for Jesus to go back to His Father. But before He left, He had something important to tell His followers. Acts 1: 4And while they were gathered together, He commanded them: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift the Father promised, which you have heard Me discuss. 5For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit." Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." 9After He had said this, they watched as He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight. Jesus was gone… again! How would they react? Heartbroken? Fearful? I so glad Scripture tells us how they felt. I am convinced the answer to my question reflects what they believed. Luke 24:51 While He was blessing them, He left them and was carried up into heaven. 52And they worshiped Him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, 53praising God continually in the temple. Dear Father, help us to believe Your promise. I pray for believers to be filled with Precious Holy Spirit. You said we would receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us. Help us to access and release your power so we can be Your witnesses everywhere we go.    

Why Is Pentecost Important to Christians Today? Let's go to Scripture to answer that question. When God called Moses to deliver the children of Israel from bondage, God made a promise to him. Exodus 3:12 "I will surely be with you," God said, "and this will be the sign to you  that I have sent you: When you have brought  the people out of Egypt, all of you will worship God on this mountain."   Here was Moses and all the people, standing at the foot of that same mountain, after they had been delivered mightily by the hand of God. Can you imagine how excited Moses must have felt? Do you think he ran up that mountain to meet with God? God had done exactly, miraculously, powerfully, what He said He would do!   But their deliverance was only the beginning of what God had for His special people. Listen with fresh ears to what God spoke to Moses. Let His divine plan soak into your heart.  4'You have seen for yourselves what I did to Egypt,  and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to Myself.    5Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations— for the whole earth is Mine.  6And unto Me you shall be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words that you are to speak to the Israelites." The events that were about to take place were filled with purpose. God's plan was to build people, not just a few, but a nation of people, that would serve as priests ministering unto God and out to people.   God gave Moses detailed instructions for how the people must prepare themselves for the God Encounter that would be taking place in 3 days. That Supernatural and spectacular, talking about fireworks…God's fireworks display would be spectacular, but it would be overshadowed by the greatness of the God Encounter that would happen exactly 50 days after the Passover that had catapulted them out of Egypt. Pentecost means 50. They prepared according to God's instructions. God's Manifest Presence was seen and experienced by an awestruck nation. At that first Old Testament Pentecost, they saw and heard… Big fire on the Mt Sinai, Smoke, Lightning, Ground shaking, Sound of a ram's horn, God speak the 10 Commandments   God didn't stop with the 10 Commandments Exodus 20: 21 BSB And the people stood at a distance as Moses approached  the thick darkness where God was. God gave them a pattern for living and worship. He gave Moses the Word.   God didn't want them to forget. So, God commanded them to celebrate this event, Pentecost, every year. It was one of the three major feasts every Jewish male was required to attend.   Oh, how quickly we forget. We must not forget how important the Word of God is in a believer's life. We need the Word. We need to renew our mind to the point it shapes our beliefs and our choices. We must make it the final authority in our lives. We must not forget the victories that God has given us; the everyday things, simple things that only a BIG God would notice. Nor, should we forget the big things, the miracles, the messes He got us out of…His provisions, His unending love! We do forget! But God did not want them to forget, Pentecost, His Power, His Glory that had given His plan for their worship and living. Remembering His goodness and greatness, gives us hope and peace.   We need the Word of God. It is life to us!! It feeds us spiritually.   Just as Passover was both an event and a prophetic picture, so was Pentecost. Passover and deliverance were historical events that prophetically pointed to the cross that would deliver people from their sins. Pentecost was a historical event that pointed to the outpouring of Precious Holy Spirit. We need the both the Word and the Spirit! The Next Pentecost, after Jesus went to the Father… God kept His promise! He sent Precious Holy Spirit! He was the helper Jesus had promised.   The descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost changed the world forever. We see Holy Spirit moving throughout the Old Testament beginning in Genesis 1 at Creation, but primarily as a visitor who came upon certain individuals for specific tasks or moments. But in the New Testament Pentecost marked something entirely different.   More Than a Date on the Calendar More than an occasional visitor, Holy Spirit came to fill believers. Sometimes I think the church has lost sight of a simple reality every bride understands: "After the wedding… you get to keep the man." I've lived thankful for that reality in my own marriage for over 50 years. (Okay… there may have been a few days I wasn't quite as thankful as I should have been!)   Pentecost is more than a day we celebrate once a year,  instead it is a relationship we can enjoy daily.   Holy Spirit is a person, not an it. He is our Comforter. Power. Guide. Too many roles for me to list here.   Remember what God's plan was for His people  that I shared at the front of this post,  Peter echoes similar words to both Jew and Gentile believers in 1 Peter 2:9 BSB  This verse if for believers today too. So, take this personal. But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.   What a powerful verse! A glorious verse, that makes me so happy. Yet, don't miss this line of the verse… "to proclaim the virtues of Him"   Yes, through our words Yes! Absolutely! But also, through His miracle working power operating through believers to demonstrate His glory in the Earth so He will be glorified!   I am hungry for more of God! Maybe you are too. The book "Precious Holy Spirit" was born out of my personal hunger to know Him more personally. Do you long to know the Holy Spirit more personally? The book "Precious Holy Spirit" will help you discover the Helper Jesus promised and grow in confidence, peace, prayer, spiritual strength, and understanding Scripture. this book was written for you. 📘 Available now in Paperback, Audiobook, and Digital eBook.  

One of my favorite heroes of the faith is George Müller (1805-1898) He cared for over 10,000 orphans without ever asking anyone for money — he prayed, and God provided. He built his entire life on Scripture, reading the Bible over 200 times and shaping every decision by it. He traveled the world preaching well into his 80s, telling millions that God answers prayer. His greatest legacy was not the orphanages, but his unwavering faith in the promises of God.   I'm reading  George Muller of Bristol by Arthur T. Pierson, D.D.  It is a powerful book. I want to share with you what I'm learning from a few pages beginning with page 49.   Before George Müller became  known as a man of extraordinary faith, he was a man who did not yet understand the power of God's Word. His early Christian life was sincere, but shallow. He read religious books, he enjoyed spiritual conversation, but he had not yet discovered the one fountain of wisdom and strength — the Holy Scriptures.   And yet, God was preparing him. When he was 92 years old, he confessed that for every page of any other reading, he was sure he read ten of the Bible.   But back in November of 1825,  when he first met a praying band of disciples, he had never, to his recollection, read even one chapter in the Book of books. And for the first four years of his Christian life, he gave the works of uninspired men practical preference over the Living Oracles.   Only after God created in him a true hunger  for the Scriptures did he look back in wonder: "How could I have treated God's Book with such neglect?"   As he read, a truth dawned on him with growing force: "If God—Creator of heaven and earth—had condescended to become an Author, inspiring holy men to write the Scriptures, then surely in this Book He would impart the most vital truth. Surely His message would cover all that concerns man's welfare. And therefore, under both duty and delight, the believer should instinctively and habitually turn to the Bible."   And something beautiful happened. As Müller read and studied the Book of God, he felt himself admitted into more intimate acquaintance with the Author Himself. During the last twenty years of his life, he read the Scriptures carefully through four or five times annually, and with each reading he sensed a rapid increase in the knowledge of God.     He discovered what many believers overlook: "that the Scriptures are not merely a book to be studied—they are the audience‑chamber of the King of kings."   Müller saw: "How few believers appreciate the privilege of access to the great Author of the universe through His Word. Poor or rich, high or low, ignorant or learned—all are welcomed into His presence through Scripture."   And the promise of God is clear:   James 1:25 BSB  But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so—not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer—he will be blessed in what he does.   There is an important principle in this verse. See and do= Blessing   Psalms 1:2,3 BSB  2But his delight  is in the Law of the LORD, and on His law  he meditates day and night. 3 He is like a tree planted  by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does.   We see that principle repeated. Delight in the law = Prospers   Joshua 1:8 BSB  This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do.   And we see it for the 3rd time. See and do = Success   When Müller found this well‑spring of delight and success, he drank from it daily. And he lamented that his early neglect of Scripture had kept him so long in spiritual infancy—weak, ignorant, and powerless. His close walk with God began the moment he learned that such a walk is always in the light of the inspired Word, which is "a lamp unto the feet and a light unto the path."   He discovered that  "those who keep  intimate converse with the Lord  must  habitually find  in the Scriptures the highway  of such companionship."  Wow! That is so powerful.   Scripture  guided his prayer,  shaped his faith, and opened the door  to true communion with God.   You cannot know God intimately without knowing His Word personally.   Scripture is not just information about God —  it is the place where  God reveals Himself,  speaks,  corrects,  comforts  and guides.     Scripture is  God speaking. Revealing His promises,  His desires,  commands  and His will.   Scripture displays God's Character.   His faithfulness   His mercy   His holiness   His patience   His power   John 17:17 BSB Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.   George Müller's story is about a man who discovered that God's Word is the pathway to God Himself.     He learned that: Scripture is the key to fellowship Scripture is the foundation of prayer Scripture is the anchor of faith Scripture is the doorway into the King's presence And once he found that highway, he walked it every day of his life.   Mr. Muller said, "Blessed are they who learn to use the key that opens not only the King's Treasuries, but the King Himself."     John 14:21 BSB Whoever has My commandments  and keeps them  is the one who loves Me.  The one who loves Me  will be loved  by My Father,  and I will love him  and reveal Myself to him."   "God's aristocracy— His nobility,  His princes— are not  the wise,  mighty,  or high‑born of earth,  but often  the poor,  weak,  and despised  who abide in His presence  and commune with Him  through His inspired Word." I'm determined to be one of those people. How 'bout you?

Little boys love to flex their tiny arm muscles and declare with absolute confidence, "I'm strong!" and it fills me with joy every time I remember my grandson's proud grin when I agreed with him — it amazes me how early that desire to be strong rises up in them.     The truth is we all want to feel strong.     Being strong is even better.   Strong healthy bodies.  Minds.  Emotions.    Psalm 139:14 BSB  I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Marvelous are Your works, and I know this very well.   As believers we carry that desire the spiritual realm.   We want to be strong.  While Spiritual strength can't be measured with a tape measure around our biceps, we sense our need to live stronger.    Spiritual strength is measured by  faith under fire;  courage to do what's right when the enemy intimidates;  resilience under pressure and thru weariness;  peace in the storm;  and steadfastness and faithfulness through  pain.   Spiritual strength is measured not by how big you look,  but by how relentless you stand,  where you turn in good times  and tough times,  and how faithfully you endure the storm.   Maybe you are like me and you want to be stronger!   Maybe you're asking, "How?" Ephesians 6:10 Berean Standard Bible Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.   Your strength isn't adequate.  You are not built to handle all life's choices and challenges alone.  You were made for bigger strength than a muscle or a monster truck can muster.   Scripture insists "Be strong in the LORD!"  Access and draw from His strength.      Look at Paul's Words 2 Corinthians 12:10 BSB That is why, for the sake of Christ,  I delight in weaknesses,  in insults,  in hardships,  in persecutions,  in difficulties.    For when I am weak, then I am strong.   Wow! Did you see Paul's "why"? "for the sake of Christ!" That's an important why.      Is it your why?    This verse may sound radical, almost crazy.   But hold on,  let's talk about the storm for a minute.   Jesus told us that storms and tribulations would come, but He said   John 16:33 I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!"   1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!     Stop letting the storm overwhelm you! It is NOT bigger than the God you serve.   Jesus is with you…YES YOU!    Isaiah reminds us "He is with you." Isaiah 41:10 BSB Do not fear,  for I am with you;  do not be afraid,  for I am your God.  I will strengthen you;  I will surely help you;  I will uphold you with  My righteous right hand.     Ask Him to strengthen you.  Stop being afraid of the storm!!!! The wind is not your enemy — it's your trainer. Every time it pushes against you, it is strengthening what's inside you. You were never meant to stay small or fragile.    Like the sunflower,  your stalk was built to flex, not break. Your roots were designed to hold, not slip. And your face was made for the light, not the shadows.   So, when the wind comes,  don't shrink back.  Lean into the strength God has already woven into you.  Stand tall.  Grow higher.  Let the wind teach you what calm days never could.   A miniature version of Earth In the early 1990s, a group of scientists stepped into one of the most ambitious experiments ever attempted. They called it Biosphere 2 — a giant glass‑and‑steel world built in the Arizona desert.    It was designed to be a miniature version of Earth, a place where humans could live in a sealed ecosystem… the kind we might one day need in outer space.   Inside the dome, they created everything: a rainforest, a savanna, a desert, even a tiny ocean.   And of course — trees. Tall, beautiful trees that were supposed to grow strong and healthy in this "perfect" world.   And they did grow. Fast. Faster than trees outside the dome. But then something strange happened.   Before the trees reached maturity, they began to fall over. Perfect soil. Perfect water. Perfect sunlight. No disease. No pests. No drought.   So why were the trees collapsing? After studying the problem, the scientists discovered the missing ingredient: wind.   In the real world, wind pushes trees back and forth. That pressure creates something called stress wood — the strengthened wood that forms only when a tree is challenged. Wind also forces roots to grow deeper and wider, anchoring the tree so it can stand tall.   TELL ME HOW!!!!   Like a SUNFLOWER! A sunflower drinks in the most beautiful way. Its roots stretch deep and wide, acting like tiny straws that pull water and nutrients out of the soil. The moment the soil is wetter than the root, the water naturally moves inward — almost as if the plant is simply thirsty and the water rushes in to satisfy it.    From there, the stem carries that drink upward through little channels, delivering it to every leaf and finally to the flower itself. It's a quiet, constant flow that keeps the whole plant alive and growing.   Get thirsty for more of Jesus! Just like a sunflower is designed to pull water saturated with nutrients from the rich soil, you are designed to access and be nourished by God's strength and power.    That's just what happens when a plant is in good soil.     Your roots are in JESUS Colossians 2:6 BSB Therefore, just as you  have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in Him,    7 ROOTED and built up in Him, established in the faith  as you were taught,  and overflowing with thankfulness.   Draw strength,  love,  peace.. all that you need from Him.   Draw strength from His Presence God is speaking to Joshua  Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."     Spend time with Jesus!  Get in His Presence.  Worship Him.  Listen to His voice speak to your spirit as you study and mediate on Scripture.    Just because you did that last week, doesn't mean you don't need to get in His Presence again today.    It is daily bread. Sometimes…minute by minute drawing from His nature, listening to His guidance.     Pray. Ask for Strength.   Ephesians 3:16 I ask that out of the riches of His glory He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being,   Use your faith...believe God to give you strength!     Declare His Word over yourself or your situation like David did. David is declaring Psalm 28:7 The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. Therefore my heart rejoices, and I give thanks to Him with my song.     Paul declared in the middle of the storm He stood up in the middle of the boat, while the storm was still blowing and tossing, while it was still raining from a black sky and declared "....It will be just as he said."   Acts 27:25 NLT     Put God's Word in your heart and in your mouth. Revelation 12:11 BSB They have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their TESTIMONY. And they did not love their lives so as to shy away from death.     Being Strong is in your DNA  1 Peter 1:23 BSB Berean Standard Bible For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.

Never Underestimate the POWER of Prayer _ Peter is delivered from Prison

Have you ever said or thought "God doesn't talk to me!" Can I respectfully tell you, that's exactly what satan wants you to think, because it's simply NOT true.   I am convinced that it is critical that believers believe God wants to talk to His children! Every child needs to hear their father's voice.      It's always been important,  but today our culture is being bomb blasted by voices! 

Spoiler alert. I've always been a play by the rules kinda girl! I don't generally break the rules, but since it's only a people rule, I had to do it! I read the back of the book-first! I'm being silly. But seriously, I found a victory strategy in the last book of the Bible that I just have to share. It's found in John's Revelation of Jesus Christ that was given to him on the Isle of Patmos.   I found a Victory Strategy Revelation 12:11  They have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony. And they did not love their lives so as to shy away from death.   Here's a quick snapshot of committed believers that were distinguish by the description "they did not love their lives so as to shy away from death…. Wow! they loved God more than their lives… their reputations… their possessions. A loud voice announced that they conquered the devil by the blood of the Lamb AND…I can't pass the reality of these words without pausing…the reality of His Love…the reality that Jesus gave His life for you and me…. He gave His very life blood to give you… Redemption 1 Peter 1:18, 19 BSB For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life you inherited from your forefathers, 19but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or spot. Remember the victory strategy includes the word of our testimony. Word is also translated utterance, message, statement, speech; there is no doubt it means spoken word here. The word used here for testimony is a legal term. And our testimony is that we have been redeemed from the curse of the law! Galatians 3:13   Galatians 3:14 He redeemed us in order that the blessing promised to Abraham would come to the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit. Be cleansed from all sin 1 John 1:7 BSB But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. And our testimony is Lord I choose to walk in the light of your Word! I thank you that the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin. All sin…ALL SIN! Thank you, Father! I cannot cleanse myself. Yet, the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin!! Confidence Hebrews 10:19 BSB Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20by the new and living way opened for us through the curtain of His body, And our testimony is we praise you that because of the blood of Jesus we can come boldly (KJV) into the Most Holy Place…into your Presence. His Presence! His Presence is so wonderful. We don't come into His Presence fearful. We come into His Presence where we are welcomed and cherished and wanted. Please, please realize. There may be places that you are not welcomed, but His Presence is not one of those places!!! He made you to have fellowship with Him. He made you because He wanted you to be in His family! Hebrews 3:1 King James Bible Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; The word translated profession here is also translated confession. It simply means to agree with what God says. Dear friend, if we set our heart to believe what we see, nothing is going to change in our life. But if we set our hearts and eyes on the Word of God we can have what the Word promises. That's why we need to discover what Jesus purchased for us. If He is the High Priest of our profession, we need to be saying what God says! If you say nothing, then don't be surprised if you are not receiving what God has for you! It's important for us to realize that what God showed John in Revelation 12:11 is a 2 fold strategy for sold out believers that want to defeat the enemy! The blood of Jesus is powerful. Jesus made it possible for us to win over sin and defeat the enemy, but we must understand we access His power through faith and prayer.

A Desperate Journey of Faith  Have you ever felt an urgency in your heart, an almost desperate need to take your concerns to Jesus? Maybe you've thought, If only Jesus were here… If that resonates with you, you're not alone. The story of a nobleman in the Bible paints a vivid picture of a father's determination to reach Jesus and to heal his son. This story is more than just a miracle; it's a powerful message of faith and prayer strategies that can help us.   A Nobleman's Plea for Help  This nobleman, living in Capernaum, heard about the miracles Jesus performed at Passover and felt a spark of hope ignite within him. He hurried 20 miles to Cana, where Jesus was, longing for a miracle. It's not hard to picture him, a man of stature and status, walking with purpose and desperation in every step. When he found Jesus, he urgently pleaded, "Please, come with me to heal my son!"  48Jesus said to him, "Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will never believe." The nobleman remained undaunted, repeated his plea.   Faith in Jesus' Word  Rather than going with the nobleman, Jesus simply said, "Go your way; your son lives."  And the nobleman believed Jesus's words.  This is remarkable because the nobleman didn't argue or demand proof. He believed Jesus' words and started the journey back home. On his way, his servants met him, saying, "Your son is getting better." And when they compared times, the nobleman knew without a doubt that his son's healing happened at the exact moment Jesus spoke those words.   A Greater Miracle than Healing  But the story doesn't end there. The nobleman and his entire household came to believe in Jesus. This wasn't just faith in healing but faith in Jesus as the Messiah. The miracle was a sign that pointed to something greater—Jesus' divine identity. The nobleman's journey began with seeking physical healing, but it led to spiritual transformation for himself and his whole family.   Signs that Build Faith  John, intentionally shared this story to show us that faith is crucial. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us, "Without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." This nobleman's story challenges us to build our faith by immersing ourselves in God's Word and trusting in His promises.   The Power of Jesus' Word  It's significant to note that Jesus wasn't physically present at the nobleman's home when the healing occurred. It was Jesus' spoken word that brought healing from a distance. Psalm 107:20 says, "He sent His word and healed them." This is a powerful reminder that we can hold onto God's promises today. Even though Jesus isn't physically with us, His Spirit is still present, and His Word remains powerful to heal and restore.   Miracles Still Happen Today  The nobleman's story also reminds us that God performs miracles not just to meet our needs but to draw people to Himself. He uses signs and wonders to reveal His love and power, as seen in countless testimonies of people finding faith through divine intervention. One such story is of a man in Guyana, who was a Buddhist priest. During a critical illness, he saw a vision of his gods and Jesus standing at the foot of his bed. When Jesus reached out and touched him, healing power surged through his body, and he came to believe in the one true God. Miracles like these continue to testify of God's unchanging power and love.   Holding Onto Faith During Gradual Healings  Sometimes, God's healing is immediate, but other times, it's gradual. The nobleman's son began to improve, and by the time his father returned home, he was completely well. This teaches us that we must continue to stand firm in faith, even when the manifestation of healing takes time. The enemy may try to bring doubt, but God's promises are unshakable.    Invitation to Believe  The story of the nobleman and his son is a powerful reminder that faith in Jesus goes beyond the miracles we seek; it leads us into a deeper relationship with the Savior. If you're facing challenges or praying for a miracle, I encourage you to hold onto God's Word and believe in His promises. Believe God's Word. Trust that the same Jesus who healed and restored in the past is still at work in your life.

Do the things you are seeing and hearing around you break your heart? Not just for your needs, but other's needs, the prodigals, the hurricane victims, and what about the elections? I believe God is calling every believer to care and pray. We are called to intercede... to stand in the gap.    Let me share why I believe every born-again believer should be an intercessor. We live in a time where prayer isn't just encouraged—it's essential. Let's dive into the Word of God and see how Scripture calls us to stand in the gap for those in authority and the world around us.     The Biblical Call to Intercede In 1 Timothy 2:1, Paul urges us to offer petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone, especially for kings and those in authority. Why? So that we may live peaceful and godly lives in dignity. Prayer has a powerful effect, not only on our lives but also on our communities and nations. Throughout history, when Israel had godly leaders, the people followed in righteousness, and the reverse was also true when the leaders strayed from God's ways.    The Importance of Leaders With the state of the world today—elections approaching, natural disasters like Hurricane Helena, and unrest everywhere—it's clear that we have many reasons to pray for our leaders. When we pray, we invite God to intervene in these situations, aligning them with His will. It's time for us, the church, to rise up and get on our knees in prayer.    Spiritual Strength, Not Physical Just like the image given in Isaiah 37 and 2 Kings 19, there's a feeling that people are weary. It's like a mother ready to give birth, but lacking the strength to deliver. While many of us may be physically strong, our spiritual strength is what's lacking. And this is concerning. It's time for the church to wake up and become spiritually strong through prayer.    Don't Misinterpret God's Control We often hear the phrase, "God is in control." While this is absolutely true, it is not an excuse to relax and do nothing. God invites us to partner with Him, and one of the most powerful ways we can do that is through prayer. Jesus was a man of prayer. He also taught His disciples to pray, saying, "Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven."     It's Time to Pray with Purpose Jesus didn't teach us to pray simply as a formality. He showed us that our prayers play a role in bringing God's will to pass here on earth. Yet many Christians today don't pray, assuming that whatever happens is God's will. This is a dangerous mindset. It's time to sound the alarm! We must rise up as the church and pray the promises of God over our lives, our leaders, and our nation.    The Power of God's Promises Prayer is more than just words—it's aligning our hearts with God's promises. Just as a baby develops over nine months in the womb, there's a gestation period for the promises of God. We must take hold of His promises, meditate on them, and pray them through relentlessly until they come to pass. As believers, we have the authority to use the name of Jesus and the Word of God in our prayers. We can boldly approach God's throne, trusting that if He gave us His Son, He will surely hear and answer our prayers.    Join the Prayer Movement   There's a significant event happening on October 12th A Million Women – An Esther Call on the Mall in Washington, D.C. (It's not just for women!) It's a day of fasting and intercession for our nation, leaders, and prodigals. If you can't attend, you can still participate by setting aside time to pray, fast, and intercede. Let's humble ourselves before God, praying for revival in our churches, families, and nation.

I believe that Precious Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth guides us into all truth!    I believe that because …we have a wonderful promise in John 16:13 says, "However, when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak what He hears, and He will declare to you what is to come."   Before I take you to what God is dealing with my heart about, I'd like to be your travel guide on a little rabbit trail. Don't worry—ill get you back safely!   I'm blessed to live in Florida, a state that's known for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and endless fun activities. It seems like everyone wants to move here!    Most of you are too young to know this, but in mid-1950s through 1971, if you were looking for a place to vacation in Florida, your travel guide would probably have pointed you to the famous Orange Blossom Trail. Among its attractions were The Singing Tower, Cypress Gardens, and Masterpiece Gardens.   Masterpiece Gardens: A Popular Florida Gem Masterpiece Gardens was a gorgeous 38-acre showcase of towering, moss-covered oak trees and vibrant semi-tropical plants nestled along a peaceful river. It was a place where you could feed deer, watch alligators, and even enjoy a sky ride. But the real draw, the masterpiece itself, was its namesake—a breathtaking work of art that people from all over traveled to see. And believe me, it was worth the trip!   Wayne and I were at Masterpiece Gardens recently when a couple approached us, excited to see the masterpiece they remembered from their childhood. They'd taken a detour off the main highway, driving down winding back roads, eager to relive their memories. Unfortunately, we had to break the news: the masterpiece was no longer there.   The Mosaic Masterpiece: A Work of Art and Faith  Curiosity got the best of me, so I did a little research. I want to tell you what I discovered and show you the real MasterPEACE.

Have you ever felt like trusting God is a struggle? You're not alone. I've been there too, wondering why things aren't unfolding the way I expect them to, and sometimes, fear creeps in.   King Asa's Bold Faith in God  There are moments when we want to trust, but it just feels so hard. This reminds me of the story of King Asa in Second Chronicles 15. Let me set the stage for you.    Build your faith by hearing, reading and meditating on Scripture. It is so important to trust Him because there are so many benefits!

Do you ever find yourself hesitating to pray for someone's healing, wondering, "What if they don't get healed?" It's a common concern, but let's flip the script. Instead, ask yourself, "What if they do get healed?" We don't stop sharing our faith even though not everyone we witness to gets saved. In the same way, we shouldn't let doubt hold us back from praying for healing.   I want to build your faith and confidence by digging deeper into Isaiah 53:5, connect it with 1 Peter 2:24, show you the why in Matthew 8: 16,17. A close look any of these 3 verses wouldn't be complete without taking you to Jehovah Rapha! Some of you pray through the redemptive names of God, so you're going to love this! It's a lot to cover, but it's worth the trip. I get pretty excited in this teaching!  I strongly suggest that you listen or watch the audio or the video for this one!!!  

I am so thankful for the many times that I and my family have experienced biblical healing! I've been digging in God's Word and testimonies of modern-day healings, lately. That study has built my faith to see God's power demonstrated. In this post I want to share an inspiring story of a man that was healed because there is power in the name of Jesus. Smith Wigglesworth: A Vessel of Miracles God used Smith Wigglesworth in powerful ways to heal the sick. The miracles he witnessed were truly amazing. Whenever I picked up a book of his sermons, I was captivated from the very first page. One story, in particular, touched my heart deeply. It was the story of a church leader who had fallen gravely ill. I share that story in this podcast, but I also want to talk about other ways that people are healed biblically.  I pray that your faith will be stirred to pray for healing and that you will experience physical or emotional as well. #biblicalhealing #healingbyfaith #prayerforthesick

I have some great news for you. You can memorize God's Word even if you are horrible at memorization. I've struggled to memorize things, my whole life, however, it doesn't have to stop me from memorizing Scripture. Although it has been one of my excuses for not memorizing Bible verses. I'm discovering that I can't afford to miss the wonderful benefits that come from memorizing Scripture. Check out my website at https:///patriciaholland.org for more inspirational posts.

Do you want more? I've got lots of inspiring stories at patriciaholland.org What do you do when you are facing difficult circumstances?   How do you deal with hard places?   I want to answer that question by begining with a look at an aurora borealis. Might sound strange, but I think you'll enjoy the stop when you understand the back story.        Would you like to be strong in the Lord? You can be!   And I'd like to encourage you on that journey! I'd like to give you send my free ebook "Stronger". All I need is your email address and I'll get that book and a weekly encouraging note off to you right away!   Here's the link: https://patriciaholland.org/   Read More  

Do you want more? I've got lots of inspiring stories at patriciaholland.org Would you like to be strong in the Lord? You can be!   And I'd like to encourage you on that journey! I'd like to give you send my free ebook "Stronger". All I need is your email address and I'll get that book and a weekly encouraging note off to you right away!   Here's the link: https://patriciaholland.org/  

Don't Underestimate the Power of Communion Do you ever feel too forgetful? That's a terrible question. Don't answer it! Let me tell you how my mom solved that question for me.   I was so afraid that I would forget!  When I complained to my mother, she sent me to the closet to get some ribbon. When I brought it back, she cut a piece and handed it to me with the instruction, "Tie it around your finger. Now you will remember! because every time you see the ribbon you'll be reminded that Mildred has a birthday party at 3:00 on Saturday."    My mother, was right.  I remembered. I didn't let her forget either because I needed her to take me to the party.    The Israelites NEEDED to REMEMBER God knows how forgetful we can be.  Just like my mom God had a strategy to help them remember.    God was going to deliver His people from slavery. In Exodus 12 God laid out His strategy that would lead to their deliverance.    God's final plague was about to be released. The precious heir, the oldest son in every family would die throughout Egypt. Even the animals were included in this horrendous plague.   God assigned the Israelites a duty that would ensure His protection and exemption from the plague.    God told them to… Kill a lamb. Take the blood. Paint the doorposts, top and sides! You will be safe in the midst of the plague.    This plague was the pivotal event that freed them from slavery. It would change their identity and distinguish them as God's chosen people.   They needed to REMEMBER God's faithfulness. So, before the plague ever happened, God told Moses and Aaron so you won't forget, you must celebrate this miracle every year.    God had the annual celebration of Passover all planned before it even happened! A celebration that at its innermost core was a memorial to the goodness and faithfulness of God.   God had a covenant with these people, with this nation.    Hundreds of years later. It was at a Passover celebration that we spot the perfect lamb…the lamb of God, Jesus. He was about to fulfill the plan of God. He was about to do what no animal sacrifice could ever do. He was about to pay the full price of sin.    He was going to do more than redeem a nation. Jesus came to be the Savior of the World. He was about to make a way that anyone and everyone could be forgiven, cleansed from all sin and born into God's family. A sense of belonging that would help them experience a new identity. A relationship with God. Peace. Love. Joy.   A new covenant.    And like God declared "Remember" at the Passover in Egypt, Jesus, knowing that He was about to pay the ultimate price, said "Remember".    This is important…it wasn't what they expected to hear. Jesus was telling them, "From now on, when you celebrate this event…I want you to remember me!" Me? What?    This was the Passover. They were to remember how God saved Israel from death and delivered them from bondage. Israel's deliverance from Egypt was a prophetic picture of what Jesus would do at the cross for anyone that would believe on Him.   We know the saying…"Out of sight. Out of mind." Jesus was leaving them. Before He died, He set in place a memorial, a celebration to remember Jesus!   Let me show you what Paul says in 1 Corinthians 11. 23For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night He was betrayed, took bread,   24and when He had given thanks,   He broke it and said,   (Sorry to interrupt. Jesus knew what was about to happen to Him. Did it show in His voice? Did He speak slowly for impact? Did He stop at the end of each phrase so the gravity of what He was saying could sink into their hearts? OK. Here's what He said.)   "This is My body,  which is for you;  do this in remembrance  of Me."    25In the same way,  after supper He took the cup, saying,  "This cup is the new covenant  in My blood;  do this,  as often as you drink it,  in remembrance of Me."   The New Covenant Berean Standard Bible 1 Peter 2:24 He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. "By His stripes you are healed."   Forgiveness. Redemption. New Birth. Peace. Healing. Wholeness. Body. Soul. Spirit. Through Jesus!   One more thought. We call it communion at my church. It's not snack time. It's more than a symbol.   While the activity is symbolic, it is so much more than a symbol that calls us to remember the past.   Yes, remember, REMEMBER what He did so you can walk in newness of life right now-today. So, you can experience His love, grace, peace and power.   An invitation to come close, to experience a deep level of spiritual fellowship.  Do we do that? Do we even really understand what that means?   Sunday's communion stirred something in my heart. I want to know what it is to really commune, fellowship, experience Him at a deeper level.   He also gave a prophetic promise. He won't drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes!

Check out my website at https:///patriciaholland.org for more inspirational posts.   I'm so excited about the story that I have to tell you today. This story happened about 115 years ago, but it has a direct effect on my life.   I even have a couple of options for you!  Video  It is NOT perfect...ahh! So frustrating!!     Audio link      I want to tell you about Lillie Corum.  She lived in Springfield, Missouri. She was a mom with four kids, and she lived in a white clapboard house.   Back Story But now, here's the back story that's really important to help you fill in the details of how she could make such a good decision when she did. Her sister Rachel Sizelove was baptized with the Holy Spirit in the Azusa Street revival in July of 1906. In her heart, she really felt like she needed to go to the Midwest to talk to her siblings and her mom and share with them what God had done in her life. She wanted to tell them about the outpouring of the Holy Spirit that she had experienced. She arrived at Lillie Corum's house the last part of May of 1907.    Little Fred,  (Lillie's son) was just a little bitty fella, but from behind his mother's apron, he tells his story of seeing Aunt Rachel. He said that when she walked in the door, it was like her face was just all lit up. She seemed all aglow. She had her hands up in the air and she was praying in her heavenly language.   The family ushered Aunt Rachel into the parlor, where they gathered around and listened to her powerful stories. The whole time she was there, she couldn't hardly talk about anything else. She had so many stories and so many testimonies of what the Holy Spirit was doing in that revival.   Rachel tried to explain to her family that the presence of God was so real. She could hear God clearer than she had ever heard him before, and that the voices of the world just seem more distant than they had ever been before too.   June 1st, 1907 Lillie Corum grew hungry to be filled with the Holy Spirit. In one of their all-night prayer meetings, in the wee hours of the morning, Lillie was baptized with the Holy Spirit. She was so excited. She just wanted to tell everybody. She was just like Rachel. Rachel didn't stay long. She went on back to California.   Lillie began telling her neighbors,  and they begin getting filled with the baptism of the Holy Spirit.   Azusa Street Revival was life changing. If you know about the Azusa Street revival, then you've probably heard about the miracles that took place and about the radical healings. You've probably read about the amazing transformations in people's lives when they got saved. It was absolutely phenomenal what God was doing.   God was working and moving in the Springfield group of believers too. The numbers grew, so they began looking for a building. After a long period of time and a lot of problems, they were able to rent a building.   Hungry people came. The testimonies of what God was doing stirred a spiritual hunger in people's hearts. These people came to be filled.   Curious people that showed up. They wanted to see for themselves exactly what was happening and what was going on inside the church.   The Rowdies came too! But, there was another group that showed up, and this group was what they called the Rowdies. These folks really didn't typically come inside the service, but you knew they were outside. They came to harass and annoy the believers. Sometimes the crowd outside was bigger than the crowd inside where the people were seeking God.   The rowdies made their presence known by making all kinds of racket. They would stand in the window and holler while the service was going on. They would bang on the on the walls of the building. They would cut the reins on their horse's bridles. Remember, this was 1907, many of the people's only transportation was a horse.   One night,  Sister Lula France from Joplin was preaching when one of these rowdies came in. This little fella came running down the center aisle holding an egg. He threw that egg and it hit the pulpit. When it hit the pulpit, it splattered. That egg went everywhere. It got on the preacher. It got all over that pulpit. It was on all the people down front. It went everywhere.   The boy stood there gloating,  enjoying the moment. The mess. The confusion. He's laughing. He's loving every minute of what he's seeing. Mrs. Lillie Corum goes over to the boy. She points her finger in his face and said, "you threw that egg!".   He stood his ground  as he replies sarcastically, What of it? She said, I'm going to pray for you. I'm going to pray that you won't be able to sleep at night until you give your heart to Jesus. I'm going to pray that God will make you a preacher and that you'll be a soul winner. And God will use you in mighty ways. And she did pray. She didn't talk about praying...she prayed.   Many years passed. She was in church when a nice-looking young man greeted her, "Hello, Mrs. Corum, do you remember me?" She looked at him first one way and then the other, then answered, "I don't think I know you."   To that he replied, "Mrs. Corum, I'm the one that threw the egg." Then he began to cry, "I couldn't sleep nights after that happened. As I lay there awake, I would pray. Then I began to seek God. I got saved."   And he says, "I'm up here going to Bible college now. I'm going to be a preacher."   That young man's name was Phineas Jennings Dake.     And when I heard his name I thought I recognized it.     I got my favorite study Bible.  I went to the first page and there was the name I'd just heard. Phineas Jennings Dake!   He was the author and the organizer of the study features of my precious study Bible. All the lists, I loved the lists!!! It made me go back and reread the verse sure enough, he had listed things in the verse that I had missed. He had cross references, that make me go back and forth all over my Bible.    I love technology and I do so much study online, but there was nothing like that back then. And there are things in my Dakes Annotated Reference Bible that aren't found in the reference books I've found online!   I can't begin to tell you what the Dake's Reference Bible has meant to me. It was a big, expensive Bible. Using that Bible taught me how to dig, to digest, to think and rethink about what I was reading.   My Dakes Annotated Bible has shaped me and my life and my beliefs. It has been an inspiration to me again and again.   I made the connection  to explain how Mrs. Lillie's decision impacted my life.   But in the heat of that moment how did she make such a life changing decision?   It was through the power of the Holy Spirit that Lillie Corum responded like she did. Yes, she pointed out the wrong he was doing, but she also prayed for him.   She prayed for him. But,I can't help but wonder if things would be different if instead of only seeing the bad that people do, we would pray for them. If we PRAYED, really prayed for them, would things be different?    When we hear bad news, when we see people behave in ways that break our heart, AND it should break our heart! It should break our heart BIG enough that we go to God!  Big enough that we pray for them to be born again and that they would encounter God in a powerful way.    I am convinced that Lillie Corum's prayers and the way she spoke into that rowdy boy's destiny is a factor that made it possible for me to have an Annotated Bible. A Bible that taught me how to study Scripture. I will always be thankful for the gift she gave me when she prayed. I didn't even know to BE thankful for Mrs. Lillie Corum until a few weeks ago! But I can tell you...I am thankful!!!

The war was over and Corrie ten boom was back in Germany. She was there to speak to some young people about the riches that we have in Christ Jesus. I wish there was a recording of that teaching!    In her book of stories called "Amazing Love", she explains that although Germans are very reserved, she invited her audience to stay for a discussion after the meeting.    It took a lot of courage  for seven young people to stay. One of them spoke up and said, I'm an atheist. You do what you do with Jesus. I do it without Him, and I do it at least as well as you. Then, he began to talk about his successes that he had been able to accomplish in his own strength.    Wise enough to pray. Corrie ten Boom didn't want to argue or debate with anyone, so she prayed silently. Then she responded, "If the time should come in your life when you can no longer go on in your own strength, then remember and think about what you've heard this evening."   Another young man spoke up  "Oh, for me, the Bible is the inventory record of all that I possess in Him. I followed Hitler with all my heart and soul. But God intervened in my life and took everything away from me. I was a prisoner, and one of my comrades read the Bible with me every day when we were in prison camp. It was then that I came to know Jesus."   Then everybody was ready to talk.  They began to talk about the troubles they had seen and what they were going through.    One young man said," I am so unfaithful. I want to believe, but my faith wavers. And now that you've told me all these wonderful things, I feel certain again. But what about tomorrow? What if I waver tomorrow? What if my faith is not strong tomorrow?   Corrie ten boom explained with an illustration. "I was a watchmaker by trade.  Sometimes we got watches that didn't keep good time. There were some things I could repair myself, but there were some things that I just had to send back to the manufacture. When the manufacture repaired them, they ran perfect again.    That's what I do with my faith, Corey explained. If there's something wrong with my faith, I just send it back to the heavenly manufacturer. When he repairs it, it works right again.    I'm so thankful that Hebrews 12:2 doesn't tell us to look to our own faith?   Corrie continued, "If it did, I might say my faith is great and that would be pride. The victory would be the devil's because spiritual pride is very destructive."   Or maybe I would say, "Oh, my faith doesn't amount to anything. It doesn't do anything for me. And that's defeatism. That's a victory for the devil, too" .    Hudson Taylor once said, "We do not need a great faith, but faith in a great God!" Hebrews 12:2a BSB "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith,..) Fill your heart with the Word of God. Renew and strengthen your faith in a great God that does what He says He will do when we choose to believe Him instead of circumstances!

Isaiah 61:3 shows us a dynamic picture of Jesus the Joy Bringer comforting the mourer.  to console the mourners in Zion— to give them a crown of beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and a garment of praise for a spirit of despair. So they will be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.   There are many reasons people grieve, but Jesus brings beauty out of ashes!

https://www.patriciaholland.org/home/gods-love-letter/ Have you ever received a love letter that was so precious to you that you had to save it…tuck it away in a safe place. So amazing that through the years you retrieved it again and again to savor the sweet words? It's only a jumble of words, written on plain piece of paper, stuffed inside an envelope, but if you're the recipient then you know the power of a love letter. Every word, every single word is pure gold. Every word is read and reread with pure delight. While the words may be simple, they are electrifying. While they may be scrawled and hard to read, the words are priceless. Every "I love you" and every tender expression communicates that the reader is recognized, chosen, and valuable. Oh, I know about love letters because when I was dating my sweetheart, he was in the Air Force and he had to go to Vietnam. And while he was there, he had to work 12 to 14 hours every day, seven days a week. And then in the evening, he would have to do courses. He didn't have a lot of time.   I don't know how he did it, but somehow, he found a way to write to me every single day. I could hardly wait until time for the mail to arrive each day. I developed an ear for the mail truck. Whenever I would hear that familiar sound grow louder, I'd run out to the end of my driveway and stand by the mailbox until it arrived.   I didn't wait till I got inside to open it. I stood at the mailbox to go through the mail as soon as it arrived. If I got a letter (even though he wrote me every day, the mail system may not deliver one every day), I would tear it open, then proceed to read every single word. Once inside, I would read it again. I was so happy to have a letter. Every word was important, because I loved him and he loved me.   I want to tell you something that you already know; God has written you a love letter.  

Hey! You can learn more about me at https://www.patriciaholland.org Have you ever opened your Bible and a promise seemed to jump off the page? I mean it came so alive to you that if felt like it was written just for you? So of course, you reread the verse. It felt like God was talking to you personally and that this promise was for you. And because you understand the power of stewarding the Word of God, you probably opened your Prayer Journal and wrote it out long hand. Whether you typed it or wrote it isn't the point, but you just knew this verse was so good that you just had to remember it.   Don't you just love it when that happens?   Oh, wow, I sure do. I mean, I do and I don't.   Let me explain. Any time you get a promise from God, a promise means that God's going to do it. But between the promise and the fulfillment of their promise, there's this gap. It's the waiting time.   Do you like to wait? Not me!   But then I think about Abraham. Abraham wanted a son really, really bad. When Abraham was 75 years old, that's a long time to want something, God gave Abraham a promise that he was going to give him a son.   There was a span of 25 years between the promise and the fulfillment of that promise.   How do you wait 25 years?   I mean, I can't imagine. You know, I'm one of those people that I used to stand in front of my microwave and tap my foot wanting to hurry it up impatiently, saying, come on, come on. When I was just simply trying to eat a cup of coffee.   But I learned something. I learned that instead of standing there watching the microwave, I could go clean out the dishwasher or I could clean out the counters. Or sometimes I would even play a game with myself and running around a room, put on a load of clothes and try to beat that time on the on my microwave. You see, that's what God did for Abraham.   God knew that there would be a time between the promise and the fulfillment of that promise.  And so… He gave Abraham some reminders. Well, at that time, his name was Abram, but he gave him some reminders that would help him along the way. How did they keep his eyes off the clock, no, the calendar? Because the span was 25 years, not 25 minutes.   Even though Abraham had to wait, his faith didn't waver.   Romans 4:20-21 ESV No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, 21fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised.      I want to have a story like that. I want God to say, "Pat's faith didn't waver." How 'bout you?   Abraham did something very important while he waited, something that we can do too.   I want to tell you about it in this podcast teaching. Be sure to pray with me at the end of the video. I love praying with you!

https://www.patriciaholland.org/ A dad was desperate to find help for his son. When he finally got to Jesus, he questioned him, "If you can? Please help us." He wasn't even certain that Jesus could help his son. People still wonder about Jesus. Some even come to Him with that question. And Jesus' answer hasn't changed. He still answers..."All things are possible to him who believes!" I love the dad's answer. I think Jesus did too.