Your Network of Praise

When we’re making decisions about a home, career, retirement, debt, or helping family, we need to get some counsel. Rob West says not to assume asking for help is a weakness. Often, it’s one of the strongest acts of stewardship you can make. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

So many of us spend so little time thinking about the Lord during the day, and yet we want to live with Him forever. God’s Word has a bottomless supply of insights for life, but social media captures so much more of most people’s attention. Well today on A NEW BEGINNING, as Pastor Greg Laurie continues our Genesis series, we’ll see how Noah remembered the Lord – it was his priority – after reaching dry land following the Flood. We’ll learn a number of principles from following the life of this great patriarch! The Harvest Crusade is coming to Angel Stadium on July 11! Stay updated on all important event details.  — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Debt always costs more than the interest rate. It can affect your budget, your marriage, your margin, and even your ability to respond freely when God leads. That doesn’t mean borrowing is always wrong. But it does mean Christians should approach debt carefully, prayerfully, and with wisdom. Ron Blue, a pioneer in biblically wise financial planning and co-founder of Kingdom Advisors, joined the show today to discuss principles from his article, “Five Rules for Borrowing,” featured in the latest issue of our Faithful Steward magazine. Here are several key questions to ask before taking on debt. Will This Debt Produce More Value Than It Costs? Ron’s first rule is that borrowing always mortgages the future. When you borrow money today, you commit future income to yesterday’s decision. That’s why it’s important to consider whether the economic return is greater than the economic cost. In some cases, borrowing may help you purchase something that can grow in value or produce long-term benefits, such as a home or a business. But that is very different from borrowing for things that immediately decline in value. Credit cards and auto loans are common examples. While using a credit card for convenience and paying it off every month can be reasonable, carrying credit card debt to fund consumption is a dangerous pattern. As Ron put it, borrowing to build wealth is one thing. Borrowing for something that steadily loses value is another. That road can quickly lead to bondage. Am I Presuming Upon the Future? The second rule is simple but often overlooked: never presume upon the future. When you borrow, you are making an assumption about tomorrow. You assume your income will continue. You assume your health will remain stable. You assume your circumstances will allow you to repay what you owe. But life does not always unfold the way we expect. Jobs change. Markets shift. Health challenges come. Unexpected expenses arise. That’s why every borrowing decision needs a clear repayment plan. Before taking on debt, ask, “How will I pay this back?” If the answer depends on overly optimistic assumptions, it may be wise to pause. Borrowing without a sure path to repayment can create unnecessary pressure and reduce financial flexibility. Are We in Full Agreement as Husband and Wife? Debt not only affects a balance sheet. It affects the whole household. That is why Ron’s third rule is that spouses should be in full agreement before any borrowing takes place. Husbands and wives often think differently about money. They may have different experiences, fears, preferences, and priorities. One spouse may be more comfortable with risk, while the other feels the weight of debt more deeply. Those differences are not necessarily wrong. In fact, they can be a gift. Ron reminds couples that God does not give us a spouse to frustrate us, but to complete us. When spouses slow down, listen well, and work through disagreements, they often make wiser decisions together than either would make alone. But when borrowing decisions are made without unity, they can create resentment, tension, and a growing sore spot in the marriage. Before taking on debt, couples should ask: “Are we truly united in this decision?” Have I Given God an Opportunity to Provide? Ron’s fourth principle may be the most surprising: never deny God an opportunity to provide. Before borrowing, it is worth asking: Have I prayed about this? Have I asked God for wisdom? Have I considered whether there may be another way to meet this need? Sometimes borrowing feels like the fastest solution. But speed is not alway

Grandparenting is sweet. Step Grandparenting? That can get complicated fast. On FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson talk with Ron Deal about blended-family holidays, divided loyalties, awkward beginnings, and the long game of building trust with step-grandkids. From Captain America costumes to painful Christmas memories, this conversation hits the real tensions families carry—and how undeserved kindness, a dollop of patience, and a generous helping of joy can slowly change the story. Show Notes and Resources Host a high-impact church event without starting from scratch by using code STRONGFAMILIES between June 16–30 to get a FREE video-based study and planning support when you buy 10+ workbooks go to shop.familylife.com Explore today's featured grandparenting resources and listen to the FamilyLife Blended podcast by visiting familylifeblended.com, where you can also find details on the Legacy Grandparenting Conference. Thanks to the Christian Standard Bible for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at CSBible.com. Follow us on all social platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Find resources from our podcast at shop.familylife.com. Download FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network See cru.org/us/en/about/privacy FamilyLife’s Privacy Policy

Listen to Today's Devotion Anxiety is a meteor shower of what-ifs.  The sky is falling, and it’s falling disproportionately on you.  Anxiety ain’t fun! One would think Christians would be exempt from anxiety.  But we are not.  It’s enough to make us wonder if the apostle Paul was out of touch with reality when he wrote in Philippians 4:6, “Be anxious for nothing.”  Is that what he meant?  Not exactly.  He wrote the phrase in the present active tense—implying an ongoing state.  As if to say, “Don’t let anything in life leave you perpetually breathless and in angst.” The presence of anxiety is unavoidable, but the prison of anxiety is optional. Could you use some calm? Of course you could.  We all could.  We all could use a word of comfort. And God is ready to give it. Read more Anxious for Nothing: Finding Calm in a Chaotic World For more inspirational messages please visit Max Lucado.

One of the most amazing scientific advances in my lifetime has been those great space shuttle flights. Especially back when they were first getting started. We got to hear space news on a pretty regular basis and watch those dramatic launches. We’d hear conversations from space. We still do, from the Space Station. It looks like we’re getting back into the moon business too! You know, you could hear the familiar sound of the conversation between the NASA Mission Control Center and those astronauts up there. The space day would begin with a wake up song from Houston. They’d play something that would say, “Good morning!” Then they would communicate back and forth all day long. Of course, they were in constant communication. See, when you’re living in an environment where so much could go wrong; it’s really important to do that. I’m Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about “Not Just When There’s Trouble.” Our word for today from the Word of God – Isaiah 30. I’ll begin at verse 1: “’Woe to the obstinate children,’ declares the Lord.” Who are those? “Those who carry out plans that are not mine, forming an alliance, but not by my Spirit, heaping sin upon sin; who go down to Egypt without consulting me; who look for help to Pharaoh’s protection, to Egypt’s shade for refuge. But Pharaoh’s protection will be to your shame. Everyone will be put to shame because of a people useless to them, who bring neither help nor advantage, but only shame and disgrace.” This is a description of God’s people off course; they’re off on their own. They’ve made some plans, they’ve made some alliances, they’ve asked for some help. But it’s only going to lead to shame and disgrace. Why are they off course? Well, he said they planned but “not by my Spirit.” They’ve gone ahead “without consulting me.” Imagine if our astronauts had only communicated with Mission Control at launch time, and then as soon as they were safely up, they went off and did what they pleased; no input all day from the data that they have at Mission Control? Well, that would be dumb if not disaster! And then the only other time they would contact Mission Control was when a crisis developed. I can just imagine Houston coming back and saying, “If you’d been in touch with us all along, there might not have been a crisis.” Or, “We could have helped you correct it when it was small.” I’ve done that so many times in my relationship with my Mission Control - I mean my Heavenly Father. Have you? We have a good time talking when we’re launching something. As the day begins, I spend my time with the Lord, and we talk through the issues of that day. And then, of course, I run to Him when trouble develops. But I neglect the points in between sometimes. I tend to neglect that regular communication throughout the non-crisis details of the day and that’s a big mistake. You know, just stop for a moment and say, “Lord, what do You want done here? Which way should I go on this? Who’s the right person? What’s the best way to answer this? What’s the best way to solve this?” Listen to those words; they’re haunting words. God says, “You’ve proceeded without consulting me. You’re carrying out plans that are not mine.” We don’t mean to. It just happens because we do not stay in close, all day communication when those little choices are being made that make the big choices. Many crises are the result of everyday decisions we make without consulting our Commander. We need to consciously practice what Jesus calls “abiding in Him.” Not just visiting. Abiding in Him! Like those astronauts, we need to stay in constant contact with Mission Control.

The most recent estimates of last year’s national abortion numbers have been released, and they paint a horrible picture.  The Society of Family Planned found that there were around 1.13 million abortions total. Among that number, around 66% of all abortions were done using the chemical abortion drug. Approximately 300,000 of those were through so-called telehealth, meaning the abortion pills were distributed by mail with no meaningful medical oversight.   It was also revealed that “shield laws” which protect abortion pill distributors in pro-abortion states like NY accounted for around 180,000 abortions.   This plague must be stopped. 

How can you master your money rather than have your money master you? Pastor Colin talks about one priority and one opportunity.

When two people marry later in life, they may bring children, assets, debts, businesses, and past experiences that shape how they view money. Rob West shares some questions to ask when blending families not just to organize money, but to build a strong home together. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's easy to think that anger, rebellion or pulling away is just part of being a teenager. But sometimes, it’s a sign of feeling lost or desperately wanting to belong. In today’s episode, Mark talks with two young ladies from Heartlight as they open up about family conflict, the pressure to fit in and hiding pain behind a happy face. Both share how trying to fill their emptiness with parties, perfectionism or taking care of others only left them more isolated. Listen in to hear how, through the ups and downs, these teens are slowly learning to trust, let people in and rediscover who they really are.Is Heartlight the right place for your struggling teen? Learn more today at heartlightministries.org

Is burnout simply the price of a meaningful life? Rob West points back to the book of Genesis to show us that constant exhaustion is often a sign we’re living beyond the limits God designed for us. Humanity’s first full day was not spent working for God, but resting with Him. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When teens act out, most parents focus on the behavior. But what if the behavior is only a symptom of something deeper? In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore how loss, disappointment, rejection, unmet expectations and emotional wounds often fuel the choices parents find most frustrating. Mark explains why every behavior has a purpose and how identifying the pain beneath the struggle can help parents move from simply managing behavior to addressing the real issue. Tune in for practical insight on recognizing the hidden losses that may be shaping your teen’s actions — and how to help them find healing and hope.One of the losses that could deeply affect teens is the break up of their family unit. Find out what your child may be going through and how to help at bit.ly/divorce-remarriage-and-the-effect-on-teensMentioned in this episode:FICC Online PreRoll Stephen Curtis Chapman

Listen to Today's Devotion James 1:17 says, “Every good and every perfect gift is from above and comes down from the father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” Take this simple pocket prayer for you today: Dear Father, teach me to accept what you’ve given. I may not always understand the circumstances, but show me how they are blessings and give me gratitude for all your gifts. Rain your blessings on my friends and family today. Give them hope whatever they face. Thank you that your blessings never end. In Jesus name, amen. Here’s my challenge for you: every day for four weeks pray four minutes. Then get ready to connect with God like never before. Read more Before Amen: The Power of a Simple Prayer For more inspirational messages please visit Max Lucado.

I’ll never forget those early morning seminars in Haiti. We were in Port-au-Prince, the capital city, and we were doing a youth crusade there. Every morning at 6:00 a.m. they offered four seminars in the National Gymnasium to any teenagers who wanted to come. Did I mention 6:00 a.m.? First of all, I was amazed at how many teenagers showed up. They met in the balcony of the gym in one of the corners with their leader. So, four corners – four leaders, four teachers. They had to sit on solid concrete steps that formed the benches for seating up there. They asked me to do a two-hour seminar. (Tell a speaker to please do a two-hour seminar, he’s got no problem; it’s the five minutes that’s hard…like this program.) So, for two hours I taught teenagers the Bible. They took notes; they asked questions. Would you believe I was the first one to be done? The other three seminars were still going on. What do you think those teenagers did? They ran, each of them, to another corner hoping they might be able to catch a little bit of another seminar before it ended. I had just met believers who couldn’t get enough! Just like us, right? Not necessarily. I’m Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about “Spiritually Hungry, Spiritually Starving.” Our word for today from the Word of God comes from Matthew 5:6. Jesus talks about appetite. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” Jesus seems to be saying, “Satisfied people are those who have a hearty spiritual appetite. You want the restlessness in your heart to be cured? Then have a great spiritual appetite; be hungry for spiritual things.” That’s a sign of health, right – appetite? Our appetite is often in stark contrast with the rest of God’s kids around the world who can’t wait to get more. My pastor went to India. He was told, “Be sure you speak for at least an hour.” He said, “No problem.” But we live in a microwave society. Everything has to be quick and instant. “Boy, you had better be done speaking by noon, Buddy, because I think God goes off duty then. Twenty-minute message, please. Thirty-minute message please. That’s all we can handle.” We try to see what the minimum number of Christian meetings is we can get to a week. "Could we get this down to just Sunday morning, and could we get it down to maybe 60 minutes at most?” Maybe we could have one-minute devotions. I could just pull a quick little devotional off the shelf and I want it not to be more than one page, and I want it to be pre-packaged, and I’d like to get through it fast. Instead of taking leadership in Christian service, could I just write a check? You see what we’ve done? We’ve created a streamlined spirituality; a minimal commitment of time; a minimal commitment of me. “Let’s go through the motions. I’ll meet my obligations. I’ll do my duty and then I’ll get on with the stuff that really matters.” Can you imagine a couple in love saying, “Hey, can we keep our time together short.” No! When you’re in love you can’t get enough of the other person. I wonder, “Have we left our first love for Jesus?” Well, check your appetite. If you’re trying to fit church, and Bible, and prayer, and service into the tightest possible time slots, maybe it’s time to go for a check-up for a cold, cold heart. David said in Psalm 42, “Where can I go and meet with God? My heart pants for the Lord.” Is it time to say, “Lord, give me an insatiable appetite for You”? Maybe you’ll want to un-streamline the God time in your life and grow beyond the point of “How short can we make this?” And grow to the point where you can say, “Lord, I can’t get enough of You.”

Matthew 9:9-13 I Have you ever felt like you are spending a lot of time with Christians and you’re losing your ability to love and relate to those  around  you who are not followers of Christ? In this program Crawford Loritts shares seven barriers that prevent us from expressing the heart and love of the Lord Jesus to lost people.Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/livingalegacySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The familiar little insect known as the water boatman is a marvel of engineering design. About an inch long, it swims on its back on the surface of the pond using two of its legs that are extra long and have little paddles on the end, just like the oars of a boat. Anyone who has tried swimming on his back knows how difficult it is to see where he is going, but not the water boatman. His eyes are especially placed for perfect sight while swimming on his back.As I mentioned, the boatman is an insect so of course does not have gills like a fish, yet he spends a lot of time underwater. How does he do this? Well, his Creator gave him the ability to breathe through his tail that he sticks out of the water, just like a snorkel tube. There are tiny hairs that keep the water out of this tube while he draws fresh air in to refill his air tanks for another dive. Those tiny hairs also tell the boatman whether a nearby movement in the water is something that would threaten him or something that might be good for lunch.Surely, the specialized features of this little insect could not have gradually developed by trial and error but are evidences of superb design and a master Designer.Romans 1:20"For from the creation of the world the invisible things of Him are clearly seen, being understood through the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse."Prayer: Dear Lord, even though the creation has been scarred and damaged by sin, its beauty and wonder is still marvelous to behold. For this, I thank You as I look forward to seeing the New Creation. In Jesus' Name. Amen.Ref: Bob Devine, Uncle Bob’s Animal Stories, (Moody Press, Chicago, IL). Image: Notonecta glauca (water-boatman) Germany, Regani, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1232/29?v=20251111

The Scriptures need to be in our hands and in our hearts continuously. If they aren’t, it doesn’t take long for us to fall off the path.

Following Jesus in secret doesn’t mean following Him alone.

Authentic generosity comes from receiving the grace of God deeply. Rob West shares that everything we have (our time, talents, and treasure ) has been received from God’s hand. And because we've been blessed by the Lord it's our joy to be generous. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this week's Q&A episode, Mark sits down to address some real-life struggles parents are facing with their teens today. He tackles tough listener questions on topics like helping teens who feel hopeless about graduation, navigating the challenges of parenting neurodivergent kids who are glued to their screens, and how to respond when you discover your teen is making choices that deeply impact the relationship. Mark also speaks to parents dealing with family trauma and crisis, offering advice for single moms at the breaking point and families grappling with PTSD. Through it all, he underscores the importance of sharing your perspective instead of your opinions and finding ways to let go as kids grow.Courtney's Corner: Questions to Reflect OnHow comfortable are you with your child being uncomfortable as they grow?What might cause your child (or anyone you lead) to reject your authority?Are there experiences or relationships where you can create more safety or encourage growth by stepping back?Have a question for the show? Send it in at markgregston.com

>> Thanks in advance for giving a LIKE, COMMENT, RATE, REVIEW and SHARE << Like the Show? Click the [SHARE] ↻ button so more people can hear it! Comment on the tracks as well! ☕️ Keep us recharged with a coffee :) www.buymeacoffee.com/transformedm Or.. follow any of our social links below. --- Movement Radio with the Transform DJs is an hour-long program syndicated to Radio Stations worldwide, bringing the best in Christ Centered / Positive EDM (Electronic Dance Music). In addition to new music, this high energy DJ Mix show features segments that highlight hot tracks, throwback tunes, encouraging words and the gospel message. A truly uplifting EDM experience. Request your station to sign up and air the #1 Christian EDM Radio Show --- Movement Radio! Send requests to www.nrtsyndication.com Join the "Movement" at www.transformedm.com Subscribe/Stream Movement Radio on your fav platform: transformedm.com/movement-radio Listen to Transform music on Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/2AJyow0j4…1aRKu8vqrVMwccKg Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/transformedm Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/transformedm Follow us on X: x.com/transform_edm Subscribe to our YouTube channel: youtube.com/transformedm MOVEMENT RADIO EPISODE 266 - TRACK LISTING - --- Segment 1 1. Charity Gayle - I Speak Jesus (Reyer Remix | feat. Amanda Lock) 2. God’s Nation & AndyG - Thankful For Your Love 3. | WILDFIRE | Phil Wickham - Running To A Runaway (AndyG Remix) - THE WEEKLY STOKE - 4. KickOff & Alezz Andrew - Lead Me Back (Psalm 139) 5. Transform - Never Alone 6. Bethel Music - No Longer Slaves (Reyer & Retain Remix 2025 Version) 7. DJ Jireh - God With Us 8. Jhonny Vergel - My Hope Segment 2 1. Retain - You’re By My Side 2. Jacob Stanifer & REV1VED - Only The Beginning 3.. | BACKSPIN | Revürb - Stronger Than Before 4. Capitol Kings - Get Lifted 5. Tim Hughes - Happy Day (Retain Remix) 6. Audicid - Elephant 7. Vic-20 - Binary Language

How can you become a more productive person? Pastor Colin gives you 4 questions you can ask yourself.

There’s probably someone in your life you’d rather avoid. Jesus says love them anyway. Prayer is where that impossible love begins.

“Feed me with the food that is needful for me, lest I be full and deny you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God.” Rob West shares from this prayer in Proverbs 30 that money can test the heart in every season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this thought-provoking episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur explore the common phenomenon of teens presenting different versions of themselves at home, at school and online. They discuss why this “double life” is a normal part of adolescent development, how the pressures of modern culture and social media impact teens’ search for identity, and what warning signs parents should watch for if deeper struggles might be present. The episode features a moving interview with a young woman who shares her journey through trauma, secrecy and restoration within her family. The hosts offer advice on how parents can address discrepancies in behavior without shame, foster open communication and ensure their unconditional love is felt even through turbulent times.Parents are often blindsided when they discover their teen has been hiding significant aspects of their life. Here's what you need to know: bit.ly/discovering-your-teens-inappropriate-behavior

What if real love requires a real choice?

Coveting tells us peace is one possession away. Rob West shares from the example of King Ahab in First Kings that coveting turns our eyes from God’s provision to someone else’s portion and blinds us to the truth that none of it belongs to us in the first place. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today’s teens have access to more information than any generation before them, but information alone doesn’t produce wisdom. In this episode, Mark shares why one of the most valuable gifts parents can offer is perspective. Through a memorable story involving a Taylor Swift concert and a lesson from his granddaughter, Mark explores how seeing the bigger picture can change everything. He also unpacks the challenges teens face in a culture driven by peers, social media, constant information and competing influences — and why parents still play a vital role in helping them navigate it all. Tune in for practical encouragement on becoming a trusted source of wisdom in your teen’s life.Mark says a parent’s longing to be heard can get in the way of what really needs to be communicated. Learn more at bit.ly/the-difference-between-giving-opinions-and-sharing-experiences

Many creation supporters are Christians that are also interested in ancient history and like to read about the latest archaeological discoveries. However, they are concerned when, say, some very ancient remains are carbon-14 dated at forty or even fifty thousand years old. According to the Bible, the Creation itself is no more than 10,000 years old, so how does the Bible-believing Christian handle this kind of information? To assure ourselves, we need to lift the cloak of secrecy about carbon-14 dating.Willard Libby developed the carbon-14 dating method in 1947. This was considered such a major breakthrough that he received the Nobel Prize a few years later. However, like every other method of measurement, the method itself had to be calibrated against things of historically dated and known age. Libby used wooden coffin lids and for the earliest dates was obliged to use historically dated material from Egypt. Libby reported in a footnote that the Egyptologist had confessed that Egyptian dating is “perhaps five centuries too old at five thousand years.” This one little foot-note reveals that if Egyptian dates were honestly brought forward by five hundred years, they would confirm the biblical Exodus. Secondly, any ages greater than about 5,000 years are beyond the range of historical calibration. The bottom line is that the carbon-14 method does have several serious and recognized problems beyond about 2,000 years.1 Corinthians 3:18“Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.”Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank You that You are patient with us, especially when we read of discoveries and begin to doubt Your Word. Continue to teach me and give me understanding. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.Image: Willard Frank Libby in Lab, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1232/29?v=20251111

There are many attributes of God which are revealed to us in the Bible. The Bible says “God is love” but it does not say “God is anger.” Anger does not come naturally to Him. It must be provoked.

Why do your words matter so much? Pastor Colin talks about the effect of your words on others, on God, and on yourself.

God doesn’t always remove the struggles at once, but He always changes us through them.

Riches are far more fragile than they appear. From an example in the book of Lamentations Rob West reminds us that when our trust is rooted in God, we’re free to steward wealth wisely, hold possessions loosely, and face uncertain times with steady hearts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Many teens put on a brave face while chaos brews underneath. In this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight teens who know what it's like to hide their struggles behind a mask. Santana, for example, bottled up his emotions and masked his true self to avoid disappointing those he loved, especially his parents. These teens felt lost until tough circumstances forced them to confront what they’d rather keep hidden. Listen in as they reveal what it’s like to find family support, shed old habits and finally open up to authentic connection. Their stories are a reminder that no one has to face their struggles alone.Interested in learning more about the Heartlight program? Go to heartlightministries.org today!

Do you rest or just pause long enough to make more money? Rob West points out a warning from the Old Testament prophet Amos that when money becomes our master, integrity often becomes negotiable. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The claim of the Bible is that God’s Word is true. We can stand on that claim because Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

Hear Joni talk about a meaningful quote she said to herself while lying in the hospital bed right after her accident. -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible.     Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org   Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

How does our Western/individualistic perspective limit our understanding of the Bible that was written from an Eastern/collectivist perspective? Discover some cultural norms left unsaid in Scripture.   Receive As we read Scripture through the lens of our Western culture, this week’s guest, Randy Richards, reminds us that we may miss or misread some key values embedded in the Ancient Near Eastern culture the Bible was written in. Our Western individualist culture values “me” over “we,” but the Eastern collectivist culture that the Bible was set in values kinship, patronage, and brokerage that emphasize the family or group dynamic rather than an individual.  Understanding the ancient Mediterranean culture that serves as the backdrop for the Bible can add rich context that can shed a whole new light on some passages of Scripture. How can discovering the cultural context of the Bible help you better understand and apply Scripture to your life? What could your next step toward learning more about the cultural context of the Old and New Testament look like?  Reflect  What can you learn about the family dynamics between Joseph and his father and brothers by reading Genesis 37 through the lens of valuing kinship, which emphasizes strong family ties and parents mediating between siblings? How does Ephesians 2:8 model the value of patronage, which emphasizes a patron giving a gift to help rescue a loyal friend? How do 1 Timothy 2:5 and 1 John 2:1 model the value of brokerage, which emphasizes having a mediator speak on your behalf? How do you feel reading John 1:12 and 1 Thessalonians 1:4 knowing you are part of God’s family?  Based on Matthew 6:3 and Luke 6:35, how are Jesus’ disciples supposed to differ from the patronage culture of that time? How significant is it that Jesus calls His disciples, including you, His friends in John 15:15? Based on Romans 1:20–21 and Psalm 50, how are we to respond to God’s gifts? In Luke 7:1–10, why did the centurion send Jewish elders and then friends to Jesus instead of going to Jesus on his own?     Respond (Use this prayer to start a conversation with God) “Dear God, thank You that understanding more of the Bible’s cultural context can help me get a deeper understanding of You! Help me grow in my knowledge of Scripture so I can grow in my love for You! Help me to apply Your words to my life.”      Discover more about the topics in this episode with these recommended resources Mentioned in this episode: Misreading Scripture with Individualist Eyes

The book of Proverbs has much to say to brothers and sisters, and to husbands and wives. Pastor Colin talks about some of these Proverbs.

Psalm 103:13 says, “As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.” Rob West reminds us that earthly fathers have the privilege of reflecting God’s heart through patience, mercy, guidance, and love. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this Q&A episode, Mark dives into a range of real-life parenting challenges sent in by listeners. He tackles questions about handling disrespect and entitlement from older teens, setting healthy dating boundaries, and navigating tough conversations when teens are exposed to controversial or harmful views. Mark also addresses issues like sibling resentment in adoptive families, managing technology use and coping with a teen pulling away during the transition to adulthood. Throughout, Mark reminds parents to prioritize relationship, communicate openly and look for ways to support their teens’ emotional health, all while maintaining necessary boundaries at home.Courtney's Corner: Questions to Reflect OnWhich emotions might be getting in your way as you try to guide your child?If you felt truly alone, what lengths would you go to for connection — and can you use this insight to empathize with your teen?In seasons of conflict, are you willing to hold on for a better long-term relationship?Have a question for Mark? Go to markgregston.com to send it in!

Anne shares about God's love and comfort from Psalm 56:8.

God is the Owner, and we are His stewards. Everything we have—our money, possessions, opportunities, and even the people we love—is ultimately entrusted to us by His hand. Rob West reminds us of this foundational truth from the example of Job. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How long would you wait for help? How far would you go for healing?

A woman in Oregon was rushed to the hospital after experiencing severe complications following a medication abortion at a Planned Parenthood facility.   According to emergency dispatch records, the 33-year-old woman suffered heavy bleeding, passed large blood clots, and felt faint, prompting a 911 call and ambulance transport to a local hospital.   The incident reportedly occurred in April, but details only became public after records requests uncovered the emergency response documents. While the woman’s condition after hospitalization remains unknown, her story mirrors that of many other women. The chemical abortion drug is deadly to the unborn, and dangerous to mothers.  

Anne shares about sin, guilt and Jesus from Revelation 1:5.

Financial trouble doesn’t always begin with one reckless decision. As Rob West points out sometimes it grows through putting off a budget review, delaying needed repairs, skipping savings contributions, or refusing to develop new skills at work. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Even before her son was born, it was clear that Doxie would do anything for her child. 

Listen to Today's Devotion In Matthew 6, Jesus prayed, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” A prayer that begins May I not view you as a distant father, but as one who has come to earth and understands the challenges and temptations of my life. Be near me today, whisper reminders that you’re close. My friends need you today as they make difficult decisions in their workplace and in their families. Show them you are closer than even their earthly fathers. Thank you for hearing me and listening to my pleas. It’s in Jesus’ name I pray this, amen. Here’s my challenge for you: every day for four weeks, pray four minutes. Then get ready to connect with God like never before. Read more Before Amen: The Power of a Simple Prayer For more inspirational messages please visit Max Lucado.

Wisconsin’s newest abortion facility, the “Care for All Clinic” is showing a glimpse into their twisted heart.  After holding a contest earlier this year where supporters could donate money in hopes of naming their aspirator, the device used to kill children, they are now celebrating 500 abortions.  Despite the facilities name, they do not provide care for all. If they did, they would not have posted on social media celebrating this so-called achievement. They would have cared for the 500 innocent children whose lives they took.   The abortion industry is a callus, money making machine. They do not care about women or their babies. They care about collecting more blood money.