Your Network of Praise

It was only a few years ago that excited supporters of the big bang theory for the origin of the universe announced that their theory had apparently been proven. Now their unverified conclusions are being seriously questioned on several fronts.Even as it was being announced that the big bang theory was proven, verification was being made on other results showing that the big bang theory is probably wrong. William G. Tifft of the University of Arizona had been looking at lists of red shifts from distant galaxies. On a graph, he plotted the red shifts corrected for the effects of the earth’s motion. If the red shifts from these objects are the result of their speeding away from earth, their red shifts should be evenly spread over the known range of shifts. Tifft found that they’re not. The red shifts are clumped into patterns. The intervals are about 72 kilometers per second, with some half that value and some one-third of that value. Astronomers from the Royal Observatory in Edinburgh verified his results.A second study by Tifft has shown that galaxy red shifts measured from earth have changed in just a few years! This change is completely unexpected by proponents of the big bang theory. The change is large enough that Tifft expects to be able to test the rate at which these changes take place within only a few years! One suggestion is that red shifts may be some sort of decay phenomenon rather than expansion of the universe.How could human beings expect to understand a universe created by the Author of Scripture when they reject Scripture itself?Isaiah 55:8"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.”Prayer: I thank You, dear Lord, for the revelation of Your Word of salvation in Scripture. I pray that I may never presume to understand something before I know and believe what You have said about it in Your inerrant Word. Amen.Image: High redshift galaxy candidates in the Hubble Ultra Deep Field 2012, NASA, ESA, R. Ellis (Caltech), and the HUDF 2012 Team, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1232/29?v=20251111

Why was Noah favored in God’s sight? Because God is full of kindness and compassion.

This is Ken Ham, founder of Answers in Genesis, the Creation Museum, and the Ark Encounter. When you think of vegetarians, spiders probably don’t come to mind. But there’s one species of spider that snacks on plants, only hunting occasionally. This shouldn’t shock us. This spider is just a reminder that even creatures with predatory features once devoured only veggies. You see, God originally created man and the animals as vegetarian. It wasn’t until after sin that animals turned to carnivory. And spiders aren’t the only reminder of the past. Some rather fierce-looking species eat plants including several monitor lizard species, fruit bats, and giant pandas. It’s all a reminder that the history in God’s Word is true. Dig Deeper Vegetarian Piranhas’ Teeth Point to Pre-Fall Perfection No Taste for Meat?

What’s driving your work—purpose or comparison? From the wisdom of Ecclesiastes Rob West observes that even good work can be fueled by the wrong motive—the desire to keep up, be noticed, or prove our worth. But chasing status is like “striving after the wind.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There are three situations where faith especially needs to be applied. Pastor Colin talks about what they are—fear, mistrust, and guilt.

What if generosity became so normal that people just expected it from you? Rob West looks at how the disciples had a rhythm of generosity. It wasn’t spontaneous—it was structured. It wasn’t occasional—it was expected. Is giving part of our identity? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Could your teen feel like they have to be perfect to earn your approval? In this episode, Mark shares a devotional on how well-meaning parents can unintentionally communicate pressure, criticism and impossible expectations. Mark explains why many teens interpret encouragement as judgment, standards as rejection and correction as proof they’re never enough. He also offers a healthier path forward, one rooted in grace, honesty and relationship. If you want your teen to feel loved for who they are — not just what they achieve — this conversation will challenge and encourage you.While we shouldn’t demand perfection in our children, there may be times your teen is truly lacking in motivation. Get some answers and tips here: bit.ly/how-to-motivate-an-underachieverParenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

Doesn’t faith work automatically? Pastor Colin talks about why it needs to be intentionally engaged.

Anne shares about prayer from Exodus 3:14.

Don’t trust in riches. Rob West reminds us from Psalm 49 that money can mislead us, as we think it's our source of security. But God alone is our source of security and our very great reward! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sometimes, the hardest battles teens face happen silently — loneliness, insecurity and the pressure to escape pain. On this episode, Mark sits down with two Heartlight residents who share how changing their environments — and the people around them — helped them break free from destructive cycles. Both teens describe being swept up in drug use as a way to cope with things they couldn’t change at home, but found hope through new relationships and honest conversations in a supportive community.Is Heartlight the right choice for your struggling teen? Go to heartlightministries.org to learn more.Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

We all know that our faith will get tested, but why does God test it? Pastor Colin talks about 3 good purposes God has in the testing.

“What if?” two words that often get us off track instilling fear of the future. Rob West suggests we replace "what if" with "even if" words of faith trusting God in whatever comes our way! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Few things shake a parent more than realizing their teen has run away. In this episode, Mark and Wayne explore the deeper reasons teens leave home. Often, they’re running from pain, conflict, shame or consequences — or running to freedom, attention or a place they believe feels better. You’ll learn how to respond wisely when your teen returns, what family patterns may need to change, and how grace and truth can help rebuild trust. Plus, Heartlight teen Anna shares her story of pain, attention-seeking and healing.Learn to identify the pain that may be driving your teen’s behavior and some practical steps for getting to the heart of the matter at bit.ly/the-hurt-behind-the-behaviorParenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

The Bible is filled with feasts and tables set for God’s people. Discover the significance of these meals and gatherings and why they still matter today.Receive God delights in setting a table for His people. From the last supper Jesus shared with His disciples before His sacrificial death to the meals He shared with His disciples after His glorious resurrection, there are various lovely moments of fellowship between Jesus and His followers recorded for us in Scripture. The early church also knew the importance of breaking bread together. As we consider the meals mentioned in the Old and New Testaments and the greatest wedding banquet that’s still to come mentioned in Revelation, may we rejoice in knowing that God lovingly provides for our every need.   Reflect What do Matthew 9:9–13, Luke 19:1–10, and Luke 7:34 teach us about who is invited to the Lord’s table? Why does Jesus’ last supper with His disciples recorded in Matthew 26:17–30, Mark 14:12–26, Luke 22:7–23, and John 13–17 still matter to us today? Why did Jesus break bread with His disciples even after His resurrection as mentioned in Luke 24:30–32 and John 21:1–14?   In Acts 2:42–27 we read about the early church sharing meals together. Why would that have been so important to them?   Isaiah 61:10–62:5 and Revelation 19:6–9 point to the church being the bride of Christ and look ahead to Jesus’ bridal banquet. How do these Bible verses help you understand how precious you are to God? Respond (Use this prayer to start a conversation with God) “Dear God, thank You for your love and faithfulness. Thank you for providing for my every need. Help me to trust You even more with every day that passes. Help me to live for You especially as the day of Your great bridal banquet approaches.”   Discover more about the topics in this episode with these recommended resources Mentioned in this episode: The Holy Land Series Listen: The Abundant God Sinners Dinners Read: The God Who Protects and Provides Humble Hearts, Open Hands Watch: Feast of Sukkah  Inviting Others to the Table</ul

Keep obeying and trusting because one day, your faith will become greater than you could possibly imagine. -------- 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.

Dr. Crawford Loritts explains that to follow Christ means to fully and completely identify with Him.  Discipleship means a single focus.  No distractions.  Our extensive study of Matthew has continued for several weeks and is worth the listen and relisten!  Make sure to check back here, subscribe to our podcast and continue to work our way through this important Gospel account.    Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/livingalegacySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A mother’s influence is powerful and lasting. Rob West reminds us that when you find a home marked by wise money habits and open-handed generosity, you’ll often find a mother quietly shaping hearts behind the scenes. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Apostles said to Jesus, “Increase our faith!” Pastor Colin is going to walk us through this story.

What do your spending decisions say about your heart? Rob West looks at the Old Testament character of Jonah to remind us that our spending isn’t just financial, it’s spiritual. And it’s pointing to what you value most. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Do your conversations with your teen turn into debates, shutdowns or eye rolls? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur explore why teens often resist opinions, but still deeply need your wisdom. Learn how to replace lectures with perspective, listen in ways that draw your teen out, and use your life experiences to guide rather than control. You’ll also hear a powerful student story of healing, growth and the kind of communication that rebuilds trust. Because when teens feel understood, they’re far more willing to hear you.Get tips to becoming the listener your teen needs at bit.ly/listen-to-your-teenParenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

Besides attending ceremonies and signing policies after taking the oath of office, new US presidents are greeted with a cold reality: they start making their own funeral plans. That way the country will be prepared to celebrate their lives when they die. George H. W. Bush was asked if it was “weird” to be planning his own memorial. He replied, “You kind of get used to it.” Historians will write about their legacies, but presidents get to plan the personal and traditional parts of their services and the ways they will be remembered. Death is a sobering reality we all must face. King Solomon, who searched for the meaning of life in pleasure, work, and knowledge, and came up empty, said, “It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting” (Ecclesiastes 7:2). Negative situations give more perspective than happy times. If we face the reality of death, we can better prepare for what comes after. Verse 2 adds, “Death is the destiny of everyone; the living should take this to heart.” We should ponder it and plan on it. Preparation comes from receiving forgiveness of sin from Jesus, who died for us and rose again. Everyone dies because death came when the first man, Adam, disobeyed God, and we have followed his ways. But “everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life” (1 Corinthians 15:22 nlt).

Scars are reminders of pain we've endured— moments we'd often rather forget. But here's something extraordinary: Jesus has scars too.

Modern sophisticated laboratories have produced many specialized materials with amazing qualities. Yet many creatures make ceramic materials that are stronger and tougher. If a crack starts in a piece of our ceramic, over time it grows. The same crack will not grow in ceramic made by the oyster.Human and animal bodies custom-form teeth for a variety of purposes. When science makes such materials it uses heat, chemicals and high pressure. One scientist noted that it would take experts in five or six scientific disciplines to figure out how living things form these materials.Scientists have been trying to learn how creatures that make stony materials do it. Most of what they have learned has left them astonished at the quality of the materials, even if they have learned little about the process. They believe that special cells in the body use proteins and other large molecules to form non-organic molecules into stony materials. It appears that many creatures can control the formation of crystals. For example, in the abalone shell, crystals and glue are stacked in brick and mortar fashion in such a way that they become stronger under pressure. At the same time the structure allows them to be formed into intricate shapes.Our best human efforts cannot match God’s gifts. Our best human behavior cannot make us good enough for God. Only the forgiveness of sins that comes by grace through faith in Christ can do that.Ephesians 2:8-9"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."Prayer: Our dear heavenly Father, I thank You that You have sent Your Son Jesus Christ to work out my salvation. I thank You for Your forgiving grace that assures me of the forgiveness of my sins and Your love. In Jesus' Name. Amen.REF.: Pennisi, Elizabeth. "Natureworks: making minerals the biological way." Science News, v. 141. Image: Closeup of paua abalone shell, Envato. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1232/29?v=20251111

God has given us tools to win the war against sin and the devil. God uses the Bible as a mirror and counselors as a source of wisdom to help you find the truth.

This is Ken Ham, author of the eye-opening book Divided Nation: Cultures in Chaos and a Conflicted Church. The secular world opposes Bible-believing Christians with false information, blasphemy, swearing, threats, and ad hominem attacks. How should Christians deal with these attacks, especially if they’re personal? Well, understand that we shouldn’t be surprised by this opposition. We should expect it from a world that loves darkness rather than the light of Christ and his Word. Secondly, don’t take the attacks personally. It might seem like people hate us but ultimately, they hate God. They’re lost, dead in their sins, and headed for a Christless eternity. We should be moved with compassion for these lost souls. Dig Deeper Three Ways Atheists Reveal They Actually Believe in God The Burden of Standing for God’s Word

Lalaina was desperately praying that God would bless her with a second child. 

What would change if you trusted God—just for today? Rob West shares from Matthew 6:11 that God’s provision always meets you right where you are—today. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

While her husband was serving overseas in the military, Karen was invited to church one Sunday. She declined saying that she had her own religion. The invitations kept coming, and eventually she went. What she experienced there was not what she had expected. She found genuine faith, love and concern... and so much more.

>> 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 264 - TRACK LISTING - --- Segment 1 1. Transform - Intro, Interlude, Outro (Hidden Track) 2. Tim Hughes - Happy Day (Retain Remix) 3. Glorify Music - I Met Jesus in Miami 4. | WILDFIRE | God’s Nation & Andy G - Thankful For Your Love - THE WEEKLY STOKE - 5. InterTeen & Har Megiddo - Nooit Alleen (Never Alone) 6. God’s Warrior - Rave Time 7. Gui Brazil, GV3 & Anyanya Udongwo - Great Are You Lord 8. Jesse Reeves & Dustin Smith - I Speak Jesus (Reyer Remix | feat. Amanda Lock) Segment 2 1. Andy G - The Way, The Truth, The Life 2. Retain - You’re By My Side 3. | BACKSPIN | Sound Picture - God’s Song 4. Retain & Sander Nijbroek - Be With You 5. Jacob Stanifer & REV1VED - Only The Beginning 6. Fine Act - Something More 7. Glorify Music - Child Of God 8. Goshen Sai - This Is It

Dr. Crawford Loritts says that becoming a disciple of Jesus requires a decisive commitment. You have to decide. Jesus does not call for incrementalism.  He does not call you to wander your way into this thing. He does not call for you to process your way into this. To become a disciple means in some many words, you have no control over your life. It’s a life-long journey. You make the decision decisively, but it is a life-long journey.  Our study in Matthew continues today.Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/livingalegacySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New fossil discoveries in China are being greeted by evolutionists as among the most spectacular of the century. The fossils, say evolutionists, represent some of the earliest multicelled creatures. Evolutionists are publicizing these fossils as evidence for evolution. It's not difficult, however, to see how these fossils support creation rather than evolution.Evolutionists admit the fossils show that the first multicelled creatures have appeared suddenly. This confirms creationist claims that life appeared suddenly and without evolutionary ancestors.These "first" multicelled creatures were complex and complete. There were no fossils with partially developed eyes or other organs. They include trilobites that had some of the most complex eye structures of any creature that ever lived. There are also fossils of shrimp-like creatures and creatures with hard shells. Some of the animals were over two feet long. Now that's a big jump when you remember that the previous step was a single-celled algae!There are no evolutionary missing links. The evolutionists said that the creatures all belong to groups that still exist. This means that science has now documented the history of some kinds of creatures alive today right back to the very first record of multicelled life. In other words, these creatures never evolved! Also of interest is how evolutionists explain the size of this fossil deposit, which is miles across. One evolutionist said, "A violent storm probably stirred up the sea bottom and the mud settled over a large area..."Exodus 31:17“It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.”Prayer: Dear Father in heaven, I do not understand how You could have designed and so quickly created the millions of kinds of living things that You did. Help me to believe Your Word, even when my poor, sinful, created mind cannot understand how wonderful You are. In Jesus' Name. Amen.REF.: Wilford, John Noble. "Fast Evolutionary Jump Led to Complex Life, Study Says." Star Tribune, Wednesday. Image: Chengjiang biota collage, Dwergenpaartje Cédric Aria, Fangchen Zhao, Han Zeng, Jin Guo, Maoyan ZhuSmith, Degan ShuYujing Li, Mark Williams, Thomas H. P. Harvey, Fan Wei, Yang Zhao, Jin Guo, Sarah Gabbott, Tom Fletcher, Xianguang Hou, Peiyun Cong, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1232/29?v=20251111

Satan always tries to confuse Christians about their position before God. But if you have the Holy Spirit living inside of you, you can be secure and have assurance of salvation.

This is Ken Ham, founder of the apologetics ministry of Answers in Genesis. I once saw a study that said the majority of Americans think sex before marriage, same-sex relationships, and divorce are morally acceptable. Why? Because our culture is steeped in a secular worldview. You see, in a biblical worldview, God created us and he makes the rules. But in a secular worldview, we aren’t accountable to anyone, and we make the rules. So, really, “anything goes” because morality is just whatever’s right in our own eyes. Now, it’s no surprise the secular world thinks this way. But many in the church are adopting this thinking too. We need to get back to starting our thinking with God’s Word. Dig Deeper Exposing the Connection: How Evolution Impacts Morality Morality and the Irrationality of an Evolutionary Worldview

Anne shares about faith, prayer and Daniel from Daniel 2:20-21.

How do you handle rejection? Your sense of identity can make you more resilient when rejections come! 

In Colossians Paul sends greetings to “Nympha and the church in her house.” Rob West points out that we don’t know much about her, but we know this: she had a home, and she opened it for the work of God. Hospitality is one of the most overlooked forms of stewardship. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What kind of impact does a father really have on a teen’s life? In this episode, Mark, Wayne and Heartlight Counselor Courtney LaFleur talk about the unique and powerful role dads play in shaping their teens’ identity, confidence and sense of worth. You’ll hear how time, presence and genuine interest can transform even strained relationships. When dads show up — especially in the small, everyday moments — it creates lasting connection. Because what you give your teen today can shape the direction of their life for years to come.Dads, how would you describe your parenting style? Learn ways to have a positive influence on your teen here: bit.ly/dads-build-strong-relationships-with-their-teensParenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.

For many retirees, their home is their largest asset. Yet in countless financial plans, that asset is treated as if it barely exists.  Retirement conversations often focus on Social Security, pensions, IRAs, and investment accounts while overlooking the value built up in a home over decades. On today’s episode of Faith and Finance, Harlan Accola of Movement Mortgage joins to discuss why home equity may deserve a more thoughtful place in retirement planning—and how a reverse mortgage, when used wisely, can become one tool among many. The Overlooked Asset in Many Retirement Plans According to Harlan, many planning tools display home equity on paper but treat it as untouchable. In practice, that means one of a retiree’s largest resources is often ignored. Why does this happen? Sometimes, advisors are not trained to incorporate home equity strategically. Other times, people assume reverse mortgages are only for emergencies or financial distress. But that perspective may miss an important opportunity. Harlan describes home equity as a potential third bucket alongside income sources and investment accounts. Instead of relying only on withdrawals from retirement savings, some retirees may be able to use home equity strategically to reduce pressure on their portfolio. That can be especially helpful during market downturns or in years when withdrawing from investments would be less advantageous. The idea is not to replace investments or income, but to strengthen the overall plan by considering every available resource. More Than Monthly Cash Flow When people hear “reverse mortgage,” they often think only about immediate cash needs. But strategic planning can involve much more than that. Harlan noted that incorporating home equity may create flexibility in several areas, including: Timing withdrawals from retirement accounts Managing taxable income in retirement Deciding when to begin Social Security Planning for long-term care needs Preserving investment assets longer These decisions can significantly impact long-term financial outcomes. What About Leaving an Inheritance? One common concern is whether using home equity will leave nothing to pass on. Harlan explained that many families are surprised to learn that this is not always the case. Depending on appreciation, spending patterns, and the overall plan, some home equity may remain. In some scenarios, overall net worth may even improve because other assets were preserved. Of course, every situation is different, which is why personalized analysis matters. A Biblical Perspective on Stewardship Scripture reminds us, “Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2). Faithful stewardship means wisely managing everything God has entrusted to us—including assets we may be tempted to ignore. A home is more than shelter. It can also be a financial resource that, when handled prudently, helps provide stability, reduce burdens on loved ones, and create greater freedom for generosity. That does not mean a reverse mortgage is right for everyone. But it does mean it may be worth understanding before dismissing it. Consider the Whole Picture Wise planning begins by asking better questions. Instead of assuming home equity should remain untouched, consider whether it has a role in your broader financial strategy. If you’d like to explore how reverse mortgages fit into retirement planning, learn more from our trusted partners at Movement Mortgage at FaithFi.c

Mom shame doesn’t just whisper—it isolates. Maybe this looks like snapping, hiding, the “I’ll fix it myself” cycle. And meanwhile, you’re exhausted and still feel like you’re coming up short. Abbey Wedgeworth, author of Help! I'm Ruining My Kids: A Gospel Guide for the Mom Who's Desperate for Change, names what’s really going on—behind the anger, the silence, the pressure to hold it together. She digs into why going it alone keeps you stuck longer than you think. Show Notes and Resources Find out more about Abbey Wedgeworth and her books at abbeywedgeworth.com 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

Two men sat side by side in a hospital ward, and at a glance it was clear they had something in common. 

It’s not easy to love your neighbor, but with God’s help, it can be a fulfilling moment for the both of you that’s all according to His purpose. -------- 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.

2 Thessalonians 3:16–18 What does Paul mean when he calls Christians living letters (2 Corinthians 3:3)? Discover with Pastor Chuck Swindoll three imperative questions every believer must answer to leave their distinguishing mark (2 Thessalonians 3:16–18). Let your life be a compelling “letter” of God’s presence, grace, and peace, and live as an authentic representative of the King.

Listen to Today's Devotion Paul wrote, “There was given me a thorn in my flesh, from Satan, to torment me.  Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.  But he said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV). The cancer in the body. The sorrow in the heart. The child in the rehab center. The craving for whiskey in the middle of the day. The tears in the middle of the night. The thorn in the flesh. “Take it away,” you’ve pleaded.  Not once, twice, or even three times.  You’ve out-prayed the Apostle Paul and you’re about to hit the wall.  But what you hear Jesus say is this, “My grace is sufficient for you.” Sustaining grace. The grace that meets us at our point of need and equips us with courage, wisdom, and strength. Sustaining grace!  It doesn’t promise the absence of struggle. But it does promise the presence of God. Read more Grace: More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine For more inspirational messages please visit Max Lucado.

Christians have been shown to adopt children at more than double the rate of the general population. Unfortunately, during the Biden administration Christian families faced bureaucratic hurdles aimed at preventing them from fostering or adopting. Families were required to support LGBTQ identities, largely excluding faithful Christians. Secretary Kennedy stated that the Biden ruling, “dramatically constricted the pool of available parents.” Due in part to the reversal of the rule, the number of children in the foster system has dropped by roughly 100,000! Despite what abortion advocates may claim, adopting children is not a necessary prerequisite to be truly pro-life. However, pro-lifers do just so happen to be the ones leading the way in the national effort to adopt children and give them loving families.

Human flourishing needs stillness.  __________ Register for our Truth Rising watch party in Knoxville by visiting colsoncenter.org/knoxville.

Be encouraged in knowing that your relationship with Christ fuels your ability to succeed in life.Donate: https://store.intouch.org/donate/generalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ken avoided the migrant workers in his building. Their habits and way of life, so different from his, annoyed him. One day, however, while Ken was praying, a thought pierced him: They’ve been your neighbors for years, yet not once have you shared the gospel with them. Think carefully about your attitude towards them. Scripture tells us of when God confronted the Israelites with a similar warning: “Give careful thought to your ways” (Haggai 1:7). After their captivity in Babylon, His people returned to Jerusalem, tasked to rebuild the temple. God had “moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia” (Ezra 1:1) to order the construction and provide funds (vv. 2-4). But after the people laid the foundation, opposition grew (4:1-5), so they neglected the project for fourteen years. Through the prophet Haggai, God told them: “Give careful thought to your ways. . . . My house . . . remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with your own house” (Haggai 1:7, 9). God was saying, “Think carefully about how you’re living. Are you doing what I want you to do?” God disciplined His people (vv. 5-11), but when they resumed construction, He encouraged them: “I am with you . . . . Do not fear” (2:4-5). And the temple was completed in less than five years. In what area of life do we need to “give careful thought to [our] ways”? Let’s ask God to show us and help us follow His correction.