Love God First

In this third and final conversation with Pastor Craig Kessel, we discuss the signs of healthy relationships (and unhealthy ones) and the value of marriage in today's society. We provide insights and practical advice for individuals at different stages of their relationship journey, whether single or married!      Keywords: marriage, relationships, spouse, preparation, qualities, advice, counseling, community, character, faith relationships, marriage, personal growth, emotional healing, friendships, trust, support, marriage counseling, healthy relationships, commitment    

In this second episode with Pastor Craig Kessel, we explore the essential themes of marriage preparation and the importance of community and counsel in relationships. We share personal experiences and insights on how to evaluate potential partners objectively, emphasizing the need for consistent character, shared faith, and emotional health. The discussion also highlights the significance of seeking wise counsel and being aware of deal-breakers in relationships, providing valuable advice for those preparing for marriage or seeking to improve their current relationships. 

In this three-episode conversation, Pastor Craig Kessel and I explore the essential themes of marriage preparation, the qualities of a good spouse, and the importance of community in relationships. We share personal experiences and insights on how to evaluate potential partners objectively, emphasizing the need for consistent character, shared faith, and emotional health. The discussion also highlights the significance of seeking wise counsel and being aware of deal-breakers in relationships, providing valuable advice for those preparing for marriage or seeking to improve their current relationships. If you are thinking of getting married, or if you are engaged or married, the next three episodes are for you! 

In this third episode that explores the account of Isaac and Rebekah in Genesis 24, we turn from pondering their account to pulling out the truths to apply to our own lives. There are many principles we can practice about preparing for marriage and finding a spouse as we consider the way Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah and the servant walk through the process. Join us as we discuss the DOs and DON'Ts of dating and courting in the quest to find that special someone who will be your lifetime partner. And if you are already married, please listen because there is something for you in this episode too!       keywords love story, marriage, Isaac, Rebecca, Abraham, faith, prayer, character, guidance, biblical narrative Rebecca, Isaac, marriage, character, relationships, love, respect, personal growth, matchmaking, biblical stories

In this second of a three-part episode, we finish talking about the moving story of Isaac and Rebekah. The narrative unfolds through the journey of Abraham's servant, who seeks a wife for Isaac. We'll see how God guides and provides, culminating in the servant's gratitude and Rebecca's willingness to embrace her destiny.        keywords love story, marriage, Isaac, Rebecca, Abraham, faith, prayer, character, guidance, biblical narrative Rebecca, Isaac, marriage, character, relationships, love, respect, personal growth, matchmaking, biblical stories

In this part one episode of a three-parter, we explore the story of Isaac and Rebecca, emphasizing the significance of the marriage decision and the qualities that make a suitable partner. The narrative unfolds through the journey of Abraham's servant, who seeks a wife for Isaac, highlighting themes of faith, prayer, and character. For those who are in the time of life where you are considering marriage and who to marry, or for those who know someone who is, the next several episodes are for you!     keywords love story, marriage, Isaac, Rebecca, Abraham, faith, prayer, character, guidance, biblical narrative Rebecca, Isaac, marriage, character, relationships, love, respect, personal growth, matchmaking, biblical stories

In this part two of two episodes about grief, we discuss more of the practical aspects of helping others through grief and how to grieve through loss for ourselves too. If we live long enough, all of us will suffer loss. Knowing how to cope and how to lean on the strength and love of Jesus and His people will help the process greatly!

In this first of two episodes, we reflect on the life and death of Sarah, exploring the theme of grief and how it impacts our lives. We discuss the importance of understanding grief and the lessons we can learn from Abraham and Isaac. If you are currently walking through grief, know someone who is grieving right now or want to learn about grief for when it inevitably hits you in the future, this episode is for you!        Keywords: grief, loss, comfort, Abraham, Sarah, support, healing, faith, mourning, hope

This is our last episode talking about covenant, and Dr. RoseAnne Coleman does a thorough job wrapping up the topic! She ends with a sweet prayer for us all. 

In this part two of a three-episode series on covenant, Dr. Roseanne Coleman shares insights on the elements of an ancient covenant ceremony. She explains how the account of Abraham being willing to sacrifice his son Isaac at God's command relates to covenant, and she explains the profound implications of that one act. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing God's intentional love and provision in our lives, encouraging listeners to look for the evidence of God's covenant promises and faithfulness, especially in the most difficult circumstances.     

In this week's conversation, Dr. RoseAnne Coleman shares her insights on the concept of covenant in the Bible, drawing from her experiences as a chaplain and Bible teacher. The discussion explores the nature of covenants, their significance in modern life, and the profound implications of Abraham's faith and obedience, particularly in the context of his willingness to sacrifice Isaac. Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, the conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding God's promises and character. We discuss Abraham's faith and the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus, emphasizing that God chooses imperfect people to demonstrate His love and faithfulness. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing God's intentional love and provision in our lives, encouraging listeners to look for the evidence of God's covenant promises and faithfulness in their own lives.    

In our time together today, we explore the profound themes of love and sacrifice through the biblical account of Abraham and Isaac. I emphasize the depth of God's love for humanity illustrated by Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac. As we apply the truths we see to ourselves personally, we are encouraged to think about our own lives in light of God's unwavering love and to respond by reflecting on and receiving God's love for each of us personally.        Keywords God's love, Abraham, Isaac, sacrifice, faith, foreshadowing, Jesus, Old Testament, love, honesty

In this part one of two episodes, we discuss the love God has for us by looking at the account of God testing Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac. We emphasize the depth of God's love for each of us as we ponder how Abraham felt on the way to Mt. Moriah with Isaac. The account draws remarkable parallels to the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made by dying for humanity's sins. 

In this part two episode on telling the truth, we explore the significance of truthfulness and integrity for personal and spiritual growth. I discusses the consequences of lying, the importance of honesty in building relationships, and the responsibilities that is earned from being truthful. The conversation emphasizes the need for private integrity, practical steps to maintain honesty, and the importance of confession and commitment to being a person of our word.      Keywords truth, honesty, integrity, relationships, spiritual growth, trust, responsibility, confession, commitment    

In the first of a two-part episode, we explore the profound importance of truth and integrity in our lives. We discuss the importance of being someone who others consider reliable and truthful and the consequences of lying. Using the story of Abraham and Abimelech in Genesis 21 as a springboard, we look at how untrue words and actions will impact our relationships and spiritual growth.     Keywords truth, integrity, honesty, character, relationships, promises, faith, spiritual growth, trust, biblical teachings  

Last week we walked through the biblical account of Hagar and Ishmael wandering around in the wilderness after Abraham sends them away. This week we are looking at the lessons in parenting we can learn from Hagar, especially for the single parent. This part two episode starts directly with the application and answers the question: Is there hope for the children of a single parent to have an abundant life? And will God actually care for children who are raised by a single parent?

In this episode of Love God First, we delve into the complexities of family dynamics, particularly focusing on the story of Hagar and Ishmael from the Bible. I share a little about growing up in a divorced family and the challenges faced by single parents. Through the account of Hagar's experience, we emphasize the hope and redemption that God offers and the extra grace and care God gives to those in single parent situations. This episode explains the biblical account from Genesis 21, and then next week we will discuss the application and lessons from Hagar's example. Please make sure to listen to both episodes to get the full picture!

In this part-two episode, we again focus on the habitual struggle Abraham had in his life as depicted in Genesis. We discuss recurring patterns of sin, the impact of fear on decision-making, and the importance of integrity when dealing with our weakness. We talk about some practical elements to get victory over those places where we feel stuck and the importance of being patient while God works and heals our hearts.

In this part-one episode, we focus on a habitual struggle Abraham had in his life as depicted in Genesis. We discuss recurring patterns of sin, the impact of fear on decision-making, and the importance of integrity when dealing with our weakness. The conversation emphasizes the distinction between practicing sin and stumbling, highlighting the grace God gives that allows for growth and healing.     

We are going back to another "Best of Love God First" episode. This particular show resonated with many listeners since we are all getting older and want to live our best life for Christ while we are here. Enjoy another listen!

We are going back to the beginning in this Best of Love God First podcast. Who gets to hold the standard for how to measure goodness? Is it the job of each person to determine what goodness is for themselves? Or is there a higher law for goodness? Let's ponder these questions together and see what Genesis has to say about it!

In this second episode of a two-parter, we continue to explore the character of God, particularly focusing on His justice and righteousness as demonstrated in the account of Sodom and Gomorrah. Here are the main points we covered last week: The Lord's primary focus is on justice and righteousness. God listens to the outcry of the innocent. He does not sweep away the righteous with the wicked. The presence of believers preserves a society. God judges based on actions, not foreknowledge. By the end of the episode we will hopefully answer the question of what is most important to the Lord when dealing with humanity.     Keywords God's character, Sodom and Gomorrah, justice, righteousness, judgment, faith, repentance, biblical teachings, love, society  

In this episode we explore the character of God, particularly focusing on His justice and righteousness as demonstrated in the account of Sodom and Gomorrah. The discussion emphasizes the elements of God's character as we watch Him justly judge the people of Sodom. 

Enjoy a short devotional on thankfulness for this Thanksgiving weekend! We will return to Genesis next week. 

In this part two episode, we explore the application of the biblical account of Sodom and Gomorrah, focusing on Lot's life and the lessons we can learn from his choices. We highlight the dangers of cultural integration for a Christ follower and discuss how a Christian's life should be lived differently than the society in which we live. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own lives and the safeguards necessary to maintain faith amidst a challenging culture.  

In this first part of a two-part episode, we explore the biblical account of Sodom and Gomorrah, and we focus on the geography, history, and archeology of the story. Next week we will apply the principles to our own lives, but for this week, enjoy hearing some of the interesting facts and information about Lot, his wife, the city of Sodom and the city's destruction. 

Many of us know that the life of a Christ follower involves sacrifice. But it can also involve abundant blessing as well. Ironically, receiving those blessings can sometimes be difficult because we know how short we fall of deserving the mercy and love of God. On this part two episode we finish talking about how to receive the good things the Lord wants to give to His obedient disciples. 

Many of us know that the life of a Christ follower involves sacrifice. But it can also involve abundant blessing as well. Ironically, receiving those blessings can sometimes be difficult because we know how short we fall of deserving the mercy and love of God. On this episode we talk about how to receive the good things the Lord wants to give to those who are His obedient disciples. 

We are returning for the second half of the discussion on Abraham's tremendous example of worship from Genesis 18. On this episode I highlight the significance of faith, reverence, and the insights that can be gained through genuine worship. 

In this episode, we explore the profound example of worship demonstrated by Abraham in Genesis 18. I emphasize the importance of sincere worship and serving the Lord with excellence. Through Abraham's actions, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own worship practices and the need for a pure heart in their relationship with God.     

How do I live boldly for Jesus despite the painful sacrifices God may call me to endure? In this episode we are wrapping up the account of Abraham and his household getting circumcised. Last time we focused on the covenant God made with Abraham and the sacrifices involved in faith, and we discussed the significance of circumcision as a symbol of faith as well as the challenges and costs associated with living a life of faith. On this part two episode, I discuss how to live the life of faith boldly despite the cost. 

How do I live boldly for Jesus despite the painful sacrifices God may call me to endure? In this episode we explore the next installment in the account of Abraham, focusing on the covenant God made with him and the sacrifices involved in faith. We discuss the significance of circumcision as a symbol of faith and the challenges and costs associated with living a life of faith. This is a two part episode, so please come back to hear the next episode–both episodes need to be contemplated for you to get the full picture!

In this second episode with Allison Allen, we continue exploring the power of name changes in Scripture—this time taking a deeper look at Abraham and diving into the story of Jacob as well. Allison also explains what she calls the “Great Exchange”—a powerful invitation for Christians to trade old identities for God-given ones, leading to true freedom and healing.

As we reach the part of Abraham’s story in Genesis where God changes his name, we’re taking a deeper look at the significance of names in the Bible. Joining us for this two-part episode is Allison Allen—podcaster, speaker, and author—who shares rich insights into the spiritual and symbolic weight names carry throughout Scripture. Allison also opens up about how she personally connects with Abraham and the covenant God makes with him at the age of 99. Don’t miss this thoughtful and inspiring conversation!

In this episode we explore Abraham's and Sarah's name change and how that change helped them to walk in faith. We also discuss what our first priority is as Christians. It is easy to focus so much on what I do for God that I forget to focus on my relationship with Him at the root of it all. Studying about Abraham's name change helps remind us to reset our focus if we have forgotten. 

Observing Abraham's age in this chapter of Genesis can make a person stop and think about their own age and mortality. And that is good! Because if we stop for a few moments and reflect about our where we are in life, we can reset with a better attitude and a godly focus on what truly matters. 

This is our final episode talking to Dave and Kathleen Norcross, missionary emissaries to the South Pacific. Get challenged in your own walk with God as you listen to these two inspirational missionaries share their stories!    If you are interested in finding out more about missionary work, check out Foursquare Missions International's website: https://www.foursquaremissions.org/

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel the world for Jesus? Is God calling you to be a missionary? Or do you just love to hear what Jesus is up to around the world and want to partner with those on the front lines by praying? Whichever scenario describes you, you are in for a treat! In this second of three episodes, we are taking a break from studying Genesis so we can talk to two missionary emissaries from the South Pacific and hear their story.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel the world for Jesus? Is God calling you to be a missionary? Or do you just love to hear what Jesus is up to around the world and want to partner with those on the front lines by praying? Whichever scenario describes you, you are in for a treat! For the next three episodes, we are taking a break from studying Genesis so we can talk to two missionary emissaries from the South Pacific and hear their story. 

In our second summer devotional episode, we take just a few minutes to look at a three-step process to ask God for guidance. Prayer time is not supposed to be only a one-sided conversation. We can count on our Heavenly Father to give us wisdom and direction as we pray and ask, then seek and knock. 

In this short summer devotional, we take a moment away from Genesis to think about the last two verses of Psalm 139. David models for us how to pray a prayer with a humble, trusting heart that is open to God. We can do the same thing!

In this episode we explore the story of Hagar one finalt time as we focus on the character of God as El-Roi, the God Who Sees. I emphasize the importance of understanding God's constant presence in our lives, especially during times of loneliness and suffering. Through Hagar's experience, listeners are encouraged to reflect on the fact that Jesus is ever-present with us, whether we can feel it or not.   Schell, Steve, “The God Who Sees”: (sermon, Northwest Church, Federal Way, WA, May 19, 2002).   Keywords God, Hagar, El-Roi, faith, promises, testimony, loneliness, prayer, character of God, understanding God    

Keywords   Hagar, biblical stories, faith, obedience, strength, divine intervention, motherhood, character growth, spiritual healing, God's promises     Summary   In this third episode from the account of Hagar, we explore the story of Hagar from her own perspective, highlighting the truths about her character and looking closely at God's interaction with her. Through Hagar's journey in the desert, we see God show yet again that He knows what we need, and He alone can fill us with the strength it will take to walk where He leads us.

In this episode we delve into the story of Hagar, Abram, and Sarai, exploring themes of decision-making, passivity, and the importance of living out an active faith. I emphasize the need to learn from Abram's mistakes, particularly when looking at his passive responses to Sarai's actions. Looking closely at Abram's part of the story will encourage listeners to actively pursue God and engage with their faith. I highlight the consequences of passivity in relationships and the necessity of support from others as we continue walking out our faith in Christ. This is the second of four episodes looking at Hagar's story from differing perspectives.   Keywords Hagar, Abram, Sarai, passivity, faith, decision making, biblical lessons, community, prayer, active pursuit  

In this episode, I explore the story of Hagar from Genesis 16, focusing on the themes of dependence on God, the struggles of Sarai, and the cultural context of her decision to give her maid as an extra wife to her husband. Through Sarai's story we can see how easy it is to try and generate our own human solutions to God's leading and promises instead of relying on God Himself to do what He has promised. This is the first of four episodes where we look at the same story from four different points of view.      Keywords dependence on God, Hagar, Sarai, faith, trust, promises, surrender, prayer, biblical stories, personal reflection  

In this episode Pastor Kari Bulman and I continue our conversation about covenant and its significance to us today.  Through covenant, God's shows us His unwavering commitment to His people. Hopefully by the end of this episode we can get closer to truly understanding the depth of God's commitment to us.     Keywords covenant, love God, Old Covenant, New Covenant, marriage, promises, faith, relationship, trust, leadership  

In this episode Pastor Kari Bulman and I explore the concept of covenant and its significance in both biblical and modern times. We talk about the difference between the Old and New Covenants and discuss how covenants represent trust and commitment, contrasting them with the contracts we make in our modern-day world. Ultimately, we highlight the beauty of God's unwavering commitment to His people and the transformative power of understanding covenant relationships.     Keywords covenant, love God, Old Covenant, New Covenant, marriage, promises, faith, relationship, trust, leadership  

In this episode, we delve into the profound theme of God's covenant love as illustrated through the life of Abraham. We explore the nature of covenants in the ancient Near East, the significance of the covenant ceremony between God and Abram, and how this covenant foreshadows and is fulfilled by the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus. The episode emphasizes the level of commitment God has to His promises and the depth of His love, encouraging listeners to appreciate the covenant relationship we have with God through faith in Jesus. If you want to learn more about covenant, watch this Essential Doctrines video from Life Lesson Publishing explaining more. I used it myself to prepare this episode! https://youtu.be/0TyQDQW5pPE     Keywords covenant, God's love, Abraham, biblical themes, Old Testament, New Testament, faith, promise, Jesus, sacrifice  

  We explore on a little bit more of the journey and life of Abraham, focusing on him becoming a father of many nations because he believed in the Lord. I touch on the the importance of honesty in prayer, but the real focus is on the significance of faith and its connection to righteousness. Ultimately, we must make the choice to believe God just like Abram did.   Keywords Abraham, faith, God's promises, righteousness, belief, covenant, spiritual journey, biblical teachings, prayer  

With the example of the priest-king Melchizedek in Genesis 14 as a springboard, we take this episode to look at what the author explains in Hebrews about the similarities between Melchizedek and Jesus. And by the end we see how having a high priest like Jesus can be such a comfort to our souls.