Canoeing the Mountains by Todd Bolsinger   Question… What do you do when you find yourself in an unexpected place?   Big Idea: “When the unexpected touches our life, it just means God’s strength is about to show up in a BIG way!”   Psalm 139:10 (NLT) 10 even there your hand will guide …

Big Idea: “We may not be able to change the situation we’re in, but we can shift the way we talk about it…when we choose to worship”   Psalm 34:1-3 (NLT) 1 I will praise the Lord at all times.     I will constantly speak his praises. 2 I will boast only in the Lord;     let all who are helpless …

Ephesians 5:1-2 (NLT) Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. 2 Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.   [1] If we are going to lead like Jesus… we mu …

John 16:13 (NLT) When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth … He will tell you about the future.   Romans 8:14–15 (MSG) God’s Spirit beckons. There are things to do and places to go!   THE HOLY SPIRIT LEADS US — PERSONALLY   APPS GIVE INFORMATION – GUIDES GIVE PR …

THE MEANTIME IS — PREPARATION TIME   Psalm 142:1-2 (MSG) A David prayer when — he was in the cave. I cry out loudly to GOD, loudly I plead with GOD for mercy … I spell out my troubles in detail.   GOD PREPARES US PRIVATELY — BEFORE HE POSITIONS US PUBLICLY   THE MEANTIME IS — PROACTIV …

[1] Nehemiah went from cup bearer to wall builder   His heart was stirred   Nehemiah 1:2-5, 11 (NLT) I asked them about the Jews who had returned there from captivity and about how things were going in Jerusalem. 3 They said to me, “Things are not going well for those who returned to the p …

Part 1: Name the 5 wealthiest people in the world… Name the last 5 winners of Miss America… Name the last 5 Academy Award winners for Best Actor or Actress… Name the last 5 MVP’s of the Super Bowl or World Series…   Part 2: Name 5 people who taught you something worthwhile… Name 5 people you en …

[1] The devil hates the rising of a godly leader   Exodus 1:15-17 (NIV) 15 The king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, whose names were Shiphrah and Puah,16 “When you are helping the Hebrew women during childbirth on the delivery stool, if you see that the baby is a boy, kill him; but if it …

1 John 3:1,2 (MSG) Just look at it — we’re called children of God … and that’s exactly who we are … and that’s only the beginning. Who knows how we’ll end up! What we know is — we’ll see him—and in seeing him, become like him.   Luke 19:26 (MSG) “Risk your life and get more than you ever dreame …

The benefits of growing a plant in a pot are flexibility, mobility, control over soil quality, easy maintenance, reduced risk of weeds, diseases and pests.   The downsides are: greater watering needs, fertilizer needs, poor drainage =root rot, etc…   QUESTION: Is my life limited by a pot? …

SELF-DEFINING EQUATION: PAST → DEFINES IDENTITY → LIMITS FUTURE   CHRIST-DEFINING EQUATION: FUTURE → SHAPES IDENTITY → TRANSFORMS PRESENT   OUR LIFE ISN’T DEFINED BY OUR PAST — IT’S BEING SHAPED BY OUR FUTURE   1 John 3:1-2 (MSG) Just look at it — we’re called children of God … and th …

[1] As believers… we don’t need to stick our head in the sand… we don’t need to become obsessed… and we don’t need to become fearful   Luke 21:36 (NIV) Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son o …

2 CORINTHIANS 10:3-5 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every though …

[1] Israel was led by God to take land that had been dominated by practices like witchcraft   So God gave explicit instructions to reject it   Deuteronomy 18:9-12 (NIV) 9 When you enter the land the Lord your God is giving you, do not learn to imitate the detestable ways of the nations the …

The Law of the Family Script The issue travels, and it typically gets darker   Abraham   Genesis 12:11-13 (NLT) As he was approaching the border of Egypt, Abram said to his wife, Sarai, “Look, you are a very beautiful woman. 12 When the Egyptians see you, they will say, ‘This is his wife. …

[1] Job isn’t us… he’s way better than us   Job 1:1-3 (NIV) In the land of Uz there lived a man whose name was Job. This man was blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil. 2 He had seven sons and three daughters, 3 and he owned seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five hundr …

The Stone Rolled Away — And Hope Rolled In   THE FIRST PLACE HOPE ROLLS INTO — Places That Feel Final   God’s promises still stand — His purposes still prevail.   A SECOND PLACE HOPE ROLLS INTO — People Who Feel Disqualified   Mark 16:7 (NIV) “Go, tell His disciples … and Peter, …

REASON #1 JESUS — STAYED ON THE CROSS: Love Held Him There   John 10:18 “No one takes my life from me … I lay it down — willingly.”   The cross wasn’t something Jesus couldn’t escape — it was something He refused to escape!   Romans 5:8 (NLT) God showed his great love for us by sendin …

BIG IDEA: Jesus will never give up on you!   Philippians 1:6 6 And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.   Ephesians 2:10 10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew i …

[1] Because he loves us… God notices the details   Matthew 10:29-31 (NIV) 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. 30 And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than ma …

Colossians 4:5,6 (NLT) Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity — Let your conversation be gracious and attractive   When Jesus is at the center — He shows up in our conversations   CONVERSATION SHIFT #1 Be Aware — And Attuned   Interruptio …

[1] Real love isn’t convenient… it is costly   Ephesians 5:1-2 (LB) Follow God’s example in everything you do just as a much loved child imitates his father. 2 Be full of love for others, following the example of Christ who loved you and gave himself to God as a sacrifice to take away your sins …

Colossians 3:23,24 (NLT) Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward — and that the Master you are serving is Christ.   WORK SHIFT #1 Work Is No Longer Just About a Paycheck …

[1] Love is our endzone   1 Corinthians 14:1 (NLT) Let love be your highest goal!   1 Corinthians 14:1 (LB) Let love be your greatest aim;   1 Corinthians 13:1-3 (NIRV) Suppose I speak in the languages of human beings or of angels. If I don’t have love, I am only a loud gong or a nois …

Relationships Drift — Christ Brings Course Correction   Most Relationship Problems Are Really — Center Problems   Colossians 1:16,17 (NLT) Everything was created through Him (Christ) … and He holds all creation together.   COURSE CORRECTION #1 – Christ Course-Corrects Our Marriage …

“One of the greatest challenges facing the church today is not that believers will abandon their faith, but that many will settle for a shallow, diluted version of it.”   1 – Never stop your study of God’s Word   Joshua 1:8 (NKJV) “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but …

Colossians 3:15 (NLT) Let the peace that comes from Christ — rule in your hearts.   RULING REALITY #1: Something or Someone Is Always — Ruling Our Center   RULING REALITY #2: What’s Ruling Our Center — Shows Up Relationally   Colossians 3:15 (MSG) Let the peace of Christ keep you in t …

2 Corinthians 2:11 (NKJV) lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices.   Bondage Through Ignorance.   When What You Don’t Know Hurts You   Hosea 4:6 (NKJV) My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also wil …

When Jesus is at the center — everything else finds its place.   Colossians 2:8 (NIV) See to it that no one takes you captive …   CENTERING STRATEGY #1: Protect Your Center   Galatians 5:1 (MSG) Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put …

We are born looking like our parents, but we die looking like our decisions.   Our DNA may determine our traits, but our decisions determine our trajectory   The wife you got was the product of her parents, the wife you have is your product.   We live in a world that is spiritually vi …

When Jesus Is at the Center — Everything Else Finds Its Place   CENTERING TRUTH #1 Our Center Isn’t Chosen for Us — It’s Chosen by Us   Choosing our center — is choosing our life.   Deuteronomy 30:19 (NLT) “Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings an …

Ephesians 3:16-19 (NIV) 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lor …

WWJD? What would Jesus do?   Philippians 2:1-4 (MSG) 1-4 If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agree with each …

Psalm 25:14 (LB) 14 Friendship with God is reserved for those who reverence him. With them alone he shares the secrets of his promises.   Psalm 25:14 (MSG) 14 God-friendship is for God-worshipers; They are the ones he confides in.   [1] Next level power flows from next level friendship …

Momentum Is Built by — Movement Not Certainty   Hebrews 11:8 (MSG) By an act of faith, Abraham said yes to God’s call to travel to an unknown place that would become his home. When he left he had no idea where he was going.   Momentum starts when we begin obeying what we already know to do …

Psalm 25:14 (AMP) 14 The secret [of the wise counsel] of the Lord is for those who fear Him, And He will let them know His covenant and reveal to them [through His word] its [deep, inner] meaning.   Psalm 25:14 (NIRV) 14 The Lord shares his plans with those who have respect for him.   SECR …

Process Reality #1: Don’t Judge the Process Too Early — Trust   Philippians 3:12 (NIV) Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal …   Trust the process. Trust the Lord of the process.   Process Reality #2: Progress Is Made by Repeated Faithfulness, N …

[1] Building my bible study skills is about learning how to feed myself   2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV) 15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.   [2] The more I feed… the more I transform …

Ecclesiastes 7:8 (NLT) Finishing is better than starting.   Where is God inviting me to stay faithful — even when the results aren’t immediate?   Formational Move #1 Prioritize Connecting — Over Performing   Colossians 2:6 (NIV) So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, cont …

Hebrews 4:12 (NIV) 12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.   [1] I dive deeper… when I consider the context   Read the sentence bef …

Happier Truth #1: While We’re Focused on Outcomes, God Is Forming Character   Philippians 1:11 (NLT) May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation — the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ — for this will bring much glory and praise to God.   Our abilities …

[1] WHY STUDY THE BIBLE? It’s my God given playbook for life   There is a war for our attention and our mind… we win by choosing to feed our souls godly content   Proverbs 4:26-27 (MSG) 23-27 Keep vigilant watch over your heart; that’s where life starts. Don’t talk out of both sides of you …

Close doesn’t mean changed.   John 5:1–5 (NIV84) Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for a feast of the Jews. 2 Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. 3 Here a great number of disabled …

“What we do at the start of the year sets the tone for the rest of the year!” Jentzen Franklin   Hebrews 11:1 (NIV) 11 Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.   Big Idea: “Unreasonable faith, is believing that with Jesus, more than we can ask or …

Christmas Is … God Showing Up!   Luke 1:26-35 (NLT) God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph … “Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you!” Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the …

[1] Christmas isn’t pagan   The date of Christmas   The Christmas tree   Colossians 2:16 (NIV) 16 Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day.   [2] Not only is Christmas not pagan …

Matthew 2:20 (NLT) 20 “Get up!” the angel said. “Take the child and his mother back to the land of Israel, because those who were trying to kill the child are dead.”   Blueprint – a detailed technical drawing that serves as a plan for a building project. These plans are used to ensure that all …

“Eu-catastrophe”- The unexpected appearance of good breaking in   3 Story-changing takeaways…   1. A Story-changing Moment   Luke 2:8-10a (NLT) 8 That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. 9 Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared amo …

Ephesians 4:1 (NLT) Lead a life worthy of your calling … you have been called by God.   Deeper Calling Question #1: “Who Are You, Lord?”   Seeking the Caller Means … … We follow Jesus, not just believe in Jesus! … Both a change of direction and a change of Directors!   Philippians 3:1 …

Deeper Family Decision #1 – Reset Family Expectations!   Mark 6:3 (NLT) “He’s just a carpenter… the son of Mary … the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon. His sisters live right here among us.”   Mark 6:4 (NLT) “A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown … among his …

Psalm 23:1-3 (NIV) 1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.   [1] If you don’t choose to rest… life will find a way of making you   1 …

“Beneath the Surface” is Where – #1: Deep Hurts Hide!   Psalm 39:2 (CEV) I kept completely silent, but it did no good, and I hurt even worse.   [Hidden-Hurt – Facts]:   Hidden hurts don’t just heal with time!   Buried hurts don’t stay buried!   “Beneath the Surface” is Where …

Ephesians 4:21-24 (NIRV) 21 You heard about Christ and were taught about life in him. What you learned was the truth about Jesus. 22 You were taught not to live the way you used to. You must get rid of your old way of life. That’s because it has been made impure by the desire for things that lead yo …

Proverbs 20:5 (NIV) The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out.   Needed Insight #1: Our Deep-Water Emotions Are God-Designed!   • God feels compassion! (Psalm 103:13) • He rejoices over His people! (Zeph. 3:17) • Jesus wept at a funeral, over …

[1] A war is being waged for your attention   John 1:29 (ESV) The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!   [2] We need to be awake to what seeks to dominate us   Genesis 4:6-7 (NCB) 6 The Lord therefore said to …

Psalm 139:23,24 (NLT) Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends You, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.   Mark 7:15 (NLT) “It’s not what goes into you that defiles you; it’s what comes out from your heart (from …

Exodus 7:13 (NIV) 13 Yet Pharaoh’s heart became hard and he would not listen to them, just as the Lord had said.   [1] One of the most dangerous things we can possess is a hard heart   Ezekiel 36:26 (LB) 26 And I will give you a new heart—I will give you new and right desires—and put a new …

Mark 5:25-34 (KJV) And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, 26 And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse, 27 When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment. 28 …

[1] God given tasks/assignments will challenge you in new ways   They will challenge your strength   They will challenge your capacity   They will challenge your wisdom   [2] Wisdom is knowing… when we don’t know what we need to know   Proverbs 3:13-18 (NIV) 13 Blessed are t …

STORYCHANGERS… “Someone whose words or actions significantly alter the narrative or direction of another person’s life in a profound way.”   Big Idea Prayer: “God, help me to release your storychanging love to someone in my everyday world today!”   Acts 3:1-3 (NLT) Peter and John went to t …

Matthew 4:17 (AB) 17 From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins, live your life in a way that proves repentance; seek God’s purpose for your life], for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”   Acts 20:20-21 (NLT) 20 I nev …

1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT) No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.   Preparing for Our Amazing Future Begins With — Being Heavenly-Minded!   Colossians 3:1-2 (NLT) Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights …

[1] When the past has a hold of us… we need some ministry to our memories   Isaiah 43:18 Forget the things that happened in the past. Do not keep on thinking about them.   Philippians 4:8 (MSG) 8 Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on thi …

James 4:1 – What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from … desires that battle within … them?   Correct version – Don’t they come from your desires, that battle within you?   Grace Changes Our Relational Bias!   Leviticus 19:3 — Each of you must show great respect f …

[1] Jesus exercised the ability to say no   Jesus said no to Satan   Matthew 4:1-11 (NIRV) The Holy Spirit led Jesus into the desert. There the devil tempted him. 2 After 40 days and 40 nights of going without eating, Jesus was hungry. 3 The tempter came to him. He said, “If you are the So …

2 Corinthians 9:8 (GW) God will give you his constantly overflowing grace. Then, when you always have everything you need, you can do more and more good things.   God’s Grace Overflows to – Supply Our Needs!   2 Corinthians 9:8 (NIV) God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all thin …

The Dangers of a 2-Dimensional Life   Shallow Relationships Surface-Level Living No Eternal Perspective   John 10:10a (NKJV) The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.   Presence is precious. When it’s stolen, we lose more than we realize.   Spiritually …

2 Corinthians 12:5 -– I will boast only about my weaknesses.   Weakness Advantage #1 – Weakness Positions Us for Grace!   1 Corinthians 1:27–30 (MSG) Isn’t it obvious that God deliberately chose men and women that the culture overlooks and exploits and abuses, chose these ‘nobodies’ (the w …

[1] Jesus was the most confident person to ever walk the earth   He wasn’t afraid to lead   Matthew 4:18-22 (ESV) 18 While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. 19 And he …

Philippians 3:14 I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God is calling us because of what Christ Jesus did for us.   We Shouldn’t Settle for Settling Because — Growing Is God’s Grace Plan!   1 Peter 2:2 (NIV) Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, s …

[1] A re-newed life doesn’t play it safe   Matthew 25:14-30 (NLT) 14 “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a man going on a long trip. He called together his servants and entrusted his money to them while he was gone. 15 He gave five bags of silver to one, two bags of …

We Can Experience God’s Grace Because It – Chases Us!   Psalm 23:6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love (that’s grace) will – chase after me every day of my life.   John 4:4 Now Jesus had to go through Samaria …   John 4:10 “If you only knew the gift God has for you … you would ask …

Romans 7:22-23 (LB) 22 I love to do God’s will so far as my new nature is concerned; 23-25 but there is something else deep within me, in my lower nature, that is at war with my mind and wins the fight and makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me.   [1] Until we realize there is a ba …

Romans 10:14–15 (NIV84) How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the f …

2 Corinthians 5:17 (LB) 17 When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun!   [1] What you believe about yourself matters   EVERYTHING WE BELIEVE IS SHAKABLE… UNLESS WE HAVE A ROCK SOLID REASON TO STAND ON IT   R …

Ephesians 2:19 (LB) “You are a member of God’s very own family and YOU BELONG in God’s household with every other Christian.”   Big Idea: “A planted life is how we grow, heal and thrive!”   Ps. 92:12- “The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon…” …

[1] Overwhelm is always worse you feel like you’re alone   2 Chronicles 20:4 (NIRV) 4 The people came together to ask the Lord for help. In fact, they came from every town in Judah to pray to him.   Identify your team before the storm comes   Matthew 7:24-25 (ESV) 24 “Everyone then wh …

2 Chronicles 19:1-4 (NIV) When Jehoshaphat king of Judah returned safely to his palace in Jerusalem, 2 Jehu the seer, the son of Hanani, went out to meet him and said to the king, “Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the Lord? Because of this, the wrath of the Lord is on you. 3 There …

Warfare – refers to the ways in which war is engaged. The root word, WAR, refers to armed conflict between 2 parties The suffix, -FARE, speaks of movement/travel, or a fee for which something costs   2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (KJV) 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4  …

‘Magis’ Latin for greater than before. Not better than you, but better than I was before.   The key to winning in life is to love people before you meet them.   2 Kings 8:1-6   2 Kings 8:1-3 Now Elisha had said to the woman whose son he had restored to life, “Arise, and depart with yo …

Proverbs 18:15 (MSG) Wise men and women are always learning, always listening for fresh insights.   Learning Choice #1: Life-Long Learners Are Humble!   Proverbs 11:2 (NLT) Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.   Luke 2:52 (NLT) Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and …

Jeremiah 6:16 (MSG) GOD’s Message: “Go stand at the crossroads and look around. Ask for directions to the old road, the tried and true road. Then take it. Discover the right route for your souls.”   Step 1 – Determine Our Current Location!   Genesis 3:9 (MSG) — GOD called to the Man (Adam …

Matthew 11:28-30 (MGS)  “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. (NLT – “… find rest for your souls.”) 29 Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I …

‘mis’… signifies error or incorrectness   “mis-understanding”   Big Idea: “When you feel like walking away, choose instead to trust and obey”   1. When God’s solution comes from an unexpected source   2 Kings 5:1 (NLT) The king of Aram had great admiration for Naaman, the command …

Matthew 17:20 (NLT) “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move.”   Looking Up Lesson #1: Be Honest!   Habakkuk 1:2-4 (MSG) “GOD, how long do I have to cry out for help before You list …

Message Bottom-Line: Praying moves God … and … God moves mountains!   Pray-ers Who Move God to Move Mountains … Make Room for God!   Genesis 18:1-8 (NLT) The LORD appeared again to Abraham near the oak grove belonging to Mamre. One day Abraham was sitting at the entrance to his tent during …

POWER IS COMING!!!   Today is Pentecost Sunday.   What is Pentecost Sunday/The Day of Pentecost? Pentecost is a remarkably significant event in the life of the believer. It is celebrated 50 days after the Resurrection. This is where the church was birthed. It commemorates the FULFILLED PRO …

To Overcome Discouragement We Need To – Recognize What Triggers Our Discouragement!   Exhaustion is a leading cause/trigger of discouragement!   Nehemiah 4:10 (NIV) The people of Judah said, “The strength of the laborers is giving out …”   Exasperation is a leading cause/trigger of di …

[1] It seems like everyone has interest in power   Everyone either wants more power, wants to defend their power, or wants to exercise their power   Power dynamics play out in everything from politics to relationships at home   Adam and Eve fell because the serpents lie offered power …

Matthew 17:20 (NLT) “I tell you the truth, if you had faith (in God, not us, or others) even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move.”   2 Corinthians 1:20 (NIV) For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Chri …

For us as Christians, we are not a part of this world because… We are a brand NEW CREATION!   2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV) Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.   For us as Christians, we are not a part of thi …

Matthew 17:20 (NLT) “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move.”   Matthew 21:21 (NLT) “I tell you the truth, if you have faith … you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and th …

[1] Your greatest future is born out of your wounds and weakness   2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV) 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. …

Moms (and those with moms) God uses in great ways – Aren’t people without flaws, they’re people with faith!   1 John 1:8 (NLT) If we claim we have no sin (never mess up), we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.   1 John 1:9 (NLT) But if we confess our sins to God, he is …

Matthew 4:4 (NIRV) 4 Jesus answered, “It is written, ‘Man must not live only on bread. He must also live on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ ”   [1] The bible trains and equips us… for every good work   Ephesians 2:10 (NLT) For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew …

[1] The disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray… and so should we   Luke 11:1 (NIV) One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”   Jesus is still praying   Hebrews …

John 20   John 20:11 Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb   John 20:12 and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.   John 20:13 They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying …

[1] Last week we looked at Key People   Abraham was a Key Person to Ishmael and Haggar had to come back to the home to have the child born.   [2] Key places   Genesis 28:10 Jacob left Beersheba and set out for Harran. 11When he reached a certain place, he stopped for the night because …

1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (NLT) Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. 4 He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said.   Jonah 1:17 (NLT) –The Lord had arranged for a great fish to swallow Jonah. And Jonah was inside the fish for three …

When God reveals your life to you, it is like a Jigsaw Puzzle.   You see the full picture, then you start on the journey of building it.   You then start on the Journey to assemble it.   John 16:12-15 (NIV) 12“I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. 13 But when he, …

John 11:4-7 (AB, CE) 4 When Jesus received the message, He said, This sickness is not to end in death; but [on the contrary] it is to honor God and to promote His glory, that the Son of God may be glorified through (by) it. 5 Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. [They were His dear fri …

Luke 4:1-2 (NIV) Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, 2where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry.   [1] The Holy Spirit leads you even into your toughest assi …

Matthew 22:37-39 (NLT) “You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.”   Loving Others Always Involves – Loving Challenges!   Loving o …

John 14:15-17, 25-26 (NKJV) 15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwe …

Luke 10:30-37 (NLT) “A Jewish man was traveling on a trip from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road. 31 By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other s …

7 Tests We May Face!   [1] Unusual delays   Genesis 18:10-15 (NLT) 10 Then one of them said, “I will return to you about this time next year, and your wife, Sarah, will have a son!” Sarah was listening to this conversation from the tent. 11 Abraham and Sarah were both very old by this time …

Revelation 2:2-5 (NIV/1984) (Jesus says) – “I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. 3 You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name …

[1] We can see lessons in how Saul became king   1 Samuel 8:6-9 (NIV) 6 But when they said, “Give us a king to lead us,” this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the Lord. 7 And the Lord told him: “Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have r …

Mark 12:28-31 (NLT) (A teacher of religious law asked Jesus) – “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” 29 Jesus replied, “The most important commandment is this: ‘Listen, O Israel! The LORD our God is the one and only LORD. 30 And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, …

Judges 6:1 (NIRV) The Israelites did what was evil in the sight of the Lord. So for seven years he handed them over to the people of Midian.   Judges 21:25 (NLT) In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes.   [1] Small mindedness doesn’t lis …

‘mis’… signifies error or incorrectness   “mis-understanding”   “ASSUMICIDE” To assume means to believe something without proof Assumicide is when we attach motives to someone’s words or actions   Big Idea: “Assess BEFORE Assuming”   Assess before assuming, because…   1. It’ …

DEFINITION: A manner of thinking, feeling, or behaving that reflects a state of mind or disposition   [1] Here is the question… are we leadable?   God is a leader… God calls leaders to serve… but God requires everyone to follow   Israel in the desert unfortunately teaches us what not …

ERWIN MCMANUS – “What is it that makes humans different than every other species? Humans have a super power that no other species have. Humans materialize the invisible. You may not even know that about yourself. In the same way bees create hives and ants create colonies, humans create futures. It’s …

WHY DO WE DO NIGHTS OF WORSHIP?   2 Timothy 1:6-7 (AB) 6 That is why I remind you to fan into flame the gracious gift of God, [that inner fire—the special endowment] which is in you through the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination].   Times of worship and prai …

2 Corinthians 5:17 (TLB) When someone becomes a Christian, they become a brand-new person inside. They are not the same anymore. A new life has begun!   Psalm 150:6 (GW) Let everything that breathes praise the LORD!   #1 — Praising Is A Breakthrough Reset For – Fighting Our Battles! …

2 Timothy 4:9-18 (NIRV) 9 Do your best to come to me quickly. 10 Demas has deserted me. He has gone to Thessalonica. He left me because he loved this world. Crescens has gone to Galatia. Titus has gone to Dalmatia. 11 Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you. He helps me in my work for …

Men, Take the Lead.   Ephesians 5:25 (NKJV) Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church…    Ephesians 5:22 (NKJV) Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.    Ephesians 6:1 (NKJV) Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.    Genesis …

2 Timothy 4:6-8 (NIRV) 6 I am already being poured out like a drink offering. The time when I will leave is near. 7 I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is a crown waiting for me. It is given to those who are right with God. The Lord, who judges …

1 Corinthians 9:24 (MSG) You’ve all been to the stadium (superdome) and seen the athletes race. Everyone runs; one wins.   1 Corinthians 9:24,25 (MSG) … Everyone runs; one wins. Run to win.   To “Reset” For Big Wins, We Need To – #1 – Prioritize the Best Prizes!   1 Corinthians 9:25 ( …

2 Timothy 4:1-5 (NIRV) I give you a command in the sight of God and Christ Jesus. Christ will judge the living and the dead. Because he and his kingdom are coming, here is the command I give you. 2 Preach the word. Be ready to serve God in good times and bad. Correct people’s mistakes. Warn them. En …

Ephesians 3:20 (MSG) God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.   Experiencing A God-Updated Life Requires – Some Discarding! …

2 Timothy 3:14-17 (NIRV) 14 But I want you to continue to follow what you have learned and are sure about. You know the people you learned it from. 15 You have known the Holy Scriptures ever since you were a little child. They are able to teach you how to be saved by believing in Christ Jesus. 16 Go …

Our Emotions Are – Health-Impacting!   Proverbs 14:30 (NLT) A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body; jealousy is like cancer in the bones.   Proverbs 15:30 (NLT) A cheerful look brings joy to the heart; good news makes for good health.   Proverbs 16:24 (NLT) Kind words are like honey …

[1] Going to the next level means getting wiser about the enemy’s strategies   Ephesians 6:11 (NIRV) 11 Put on all of God’s armor. Then you can remain strong against the devil’s evil plans.   1 Peter 5:8 (GWT) 8 Keep your mind clear, and be alert. Your opponent the devil is prowling around …

Romans 12:2 (NIV) Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing (resetting) of your mind.   I Reset My Mind By – Questioning My Thoughts!   Mark 2:8 (NIV) Jesus knew in his spirit … what they were thinking … and he said to them, ‘Why are you thinking t …

To be strong… I have to adjust my mindset   2 Timothy 2:1 (NIRV) My son, be strong in the grace that is yours in Christ Jesus.    2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIRV) 9 But he said to me, “My grace is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak.” So I am very happy to brag about how weak I …

A Life Reset Is Possible Because – God Promises It!   2 Corinthians 5:17 (TLB) When someone becomes a Christian, they become a brand-new person inside. They are not the same anymore. A new life has begun!   Psalm 51:10 (MSG) God, make a fresh start in me, shape a Genesis week from the chao …

Jude 20 Easy-to-Read Version 20 But you, dear friends, use your most holy faith to build yourselves up even stronger. Pray with the help of the Holy Spirit.   2 Timothy 1:1-2 (NIRV) I, Paul, am writing this letter. I am an apostle of Christ Jesus just as God planned. He sent me to tell about th …

Life Before the Wall   Life in the Wall   Two Choices   John 5:1-5 (NLT) 1 Afterward Jesus returned to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish holy days.  2 Inside the city, near the Sheep Gate, was the pool of Bethesda, with five covered porches. 3 Crowds of sick people—blind, lame, or paral …

LIMINALITY “A transitional space of being in between…where transformation, reflection and potential exist.”   Philippians 3:12-14 (NLT) 12 I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which …

Luke 1:28-29 (NIV) The angel said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be.   Luke 2:18 (ESV) All who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them.   Christmas Wonder #1 – …

What can you do to help people feel at home in your life?   Listen I F E   My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry . . . (James 1:19)   Four Steps to Being a Great Listener: Repeat Key Phrases Rephrase …

Luke 1:5-20 (NIV) 5 In the time of Herod king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah; his wife Elizabeth was also a descendant of Aaron. 6 Both of them were righteous in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commands and decrees blamelessly. …

Hope-filled anticipation is… expectation rooted in confidence & trust that something good is coming…even if it hasn’t arrived yet!   Hope-filled Anticipation #1… God always makes good on what He’s promised!   Genesis 3:15- “I’m declaring war between you and the woman, between your offs …

To “Live Thankfully” We Need To Become A – Great Rememberer!   Recommended Books: Memory Rescue – Dr. Daniel Amen Unlocking the Secrets of Your Childhood Memories – Dr. Kevin Leman   Our thankfulness is enhanced by recognizing and remembering – God’s bene-fits!   Psalm 103:2-5 (NIV) P …

[1] God has given us the responsibility of making decisions   Joshua 24:15 (NIV) 15 But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land …

Proverbs 11:25 (NLT) — The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.   Acts 20:35 (NLT) — You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”   We make a living by what we get – we make a life by what we give! …

Acts 1:6-8 (NLT) 6 So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, “Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?” 7 He replied, “The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. 8 But you will receive power when …

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NLT) Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.   Living Thankfully Choice #1 – Quit Complaining!   Philippians 2:14 (NLT) Do everything without complaining …   Complaining negatively impacts our brain! Complain …

1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 (NIRV) 11 And do everything you can to live a quiet life. You should mind your own business. And work with your hands, just as we told you to. 12 Then unbelievers will have respect for your everyday life. And you won’t have to depend on anyone.   [1] Emotionally mature p …

Luke 17:11-19 (MSG) It happened that as Jesus made his way toward Jerusalem, he crossed over the border between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As he entered a village, ten men, all lepers, met him. They kept their distance 13 but raised their voices, calling out, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” 14 Takin …

“How do I learn to hear the voice of God?”   1 Kings 19:1-4 19 When Ahab got home, he told Jezebel everything Elijah had done, including the way he had killed all the prophets of Baal. 2 So Jezebel sent this message to Elijah: “May the gods strike me and even kill me if by this time tomorrow I …

John 10:10 (NIV84) 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.   1. Love: Make It Your Mission   Matthew 22:37–39 (NIV84) 37 Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with …

1 Corinthians 13:11 (NIRV) 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child. I thought like a child. I had the understanding of a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.   [1] A mark of maturity is when we have taken on the role our parents once had for us… becoming your …

“Heaven doesn’t make this life less important. It makes it more important.” Billy Graham   “It’s not how you start that matters…it’s how you finish.” Steve Farrar   Big Idea: Start strong. Stay strong. Finish stronger!   3 “Finish Stronger” lessons…   1. Live a life that looks li …

[1] God is for my happiness   Psalm 23:6 (NLT) 6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.   Romans 15:13 (NIV) 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you ma …

Antidote #1 For Life-Limiting Anxieties – Live Humbly!   1 Peter 5:6,7 (NLT) Humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor.7 Give (giving) all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.   1 Peter 5:5 (NKJV) God resists the p …

2 Timothy 3:1-5 (NLV) You must understand that in the last days there will come times of much trouble. 2 People will love themselves and money. They will have pride and tell of all the things they have done. They will speak against God. Children and young people will not obey their parents. People w …

1 Peter 4:12 (NLT)  Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you.   When experiencing problems and pains: Don’t be alarmed by them – be armed for them!   1 Peter 4:1 (NLT) So then, since Christ suffered physical p …

James 1:2-4 (NIV) 2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.   Galatians 6:9 (N …

A Hope-Fueling Team Is Built On – Mutual Submission!   1 Peter 3:1 (NASV) In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands …   1 Peter 2:13 (EHV) Submit to every human authority because of the Lord,   Ephesians 5:22 (NIV) Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as …

Matthew 15:8 (NIV) 8 “‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.   Luke 22:19 (NIRV) 19 Then Jesus took bread. He gave thanks and broke it. He handed it to them and said, “This is my body. It is given for you. Every time you eat it, do this in memory of me.” …

John 15:18,19 (MSG) “If you find the godless world is hating you, remember it got its start hating me. If you lived on the world’s terms, the world would love you as one of its own. But since I picked you to live on God’s terms and no longer on the world’s terms, the world is going to hate you …” …

[1] Worship is an expression of my love and gratitude to God   Mark 12:29-30 (NIRV) 29 Jesus answered, “Here is the most important one. Moses said, ‘Israel, listen to me. The Lord is our God. The Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul. Love him with al …

#1: Your importance to God isn’t based on what you do for him … it’s based on who you are to him!   Matthew 3:17 (MSG) “This is my Son, chosen and marked by my love, delight of my life!”   Matthew 3:17 (LB) “This is my beloved Son, and I am wonderfully pleased with him.”   My Identity …

Hope-Fueling Response #1: I need to train my thinking!   1 Peter 1:13 (NLT) So prepare your minds …   Proverbs 4:23 (TEV) Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts.   Genesis 4:6 (NIV) Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast (deje …

[1] Jesus fasted and memorized scripture   Matthew 4:1-4 (NIRV) The Holy Spirit led Jesus into the desert. There the devil tempted him. 2 After 40 days and 40 nights of going without eating, Jesus was hungry. 3 The tempter came to him. He said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to b …

Working definition of “biblical hope” — Biblical Hope is realizing and believing that God is in control!   Hope-Fueling Reason #1: I am chosen by God!   1 Peter 1:2 (NLT) — God the Father knew you and chose you long ago, and his Spirit has made you holy.   Ephesians 1:4-5 (NLT) Even …

[1] God has gifted you to serve somewhere in someway   1 Peter 4:10-11 (NIRV) 10 God’s gifts of grace come in many forms. Each of you has received a gift in order to serve others. You should use it faithfully. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do it as one speaking God’s words. If anyone serves, …

Luke 10:38-42 (NIRV) 38 Jesus and his disciples went on their way. Jesus came to a village where a woman named Martha lived. She welcomed him into her home. 39 She had a sister named Mary. Mary sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. 40 But Martha was busy with all the things that had to b …

Philippians 3:13-14 (CEV) 13 My friends, I don’t feel I have already arrived. But I forget what is behind, and I struggle for what is ahead. 14 I run toward the goal, so I can win the prize of being called to heaven. This is the prize God offers because of what Christ Jesus has done.   Philippi …

Ephesians 2:19 (LB)- “You are a member of God’s very own family and YOU BELONG in God’s household with every other Christian.”   INTENTION- “a thing intended; an aim or plan”   INTENTIONAL- “done on purpose; deliberate”   “Everyone ends up somewhere, but few people end up somewhere on …

Acts 2:44-47 (NIRV) 44 All the believers were together. They shared everything they had. 45 They sold property and other things they owned. They gave to anyone who needed something. 46 Every day they met together in the temple courtyard. They ate meals together in their homes. Their hearts were glad …

Luke 10   Luke 10:25-37 (NIV) 25 On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”   26 “What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?”   27 He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your he …

John 8:31-32 (NIRV) 31 Jesus spoke to the Jews who had believed him. “If you obey my teaching,” he said, “you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth. And the truth will set you free.”   [1] If we struggle to spend time with God it can help to follow a pattern   [a] Find a …

Isaiah 10:24-27 (NIV) 24 Therefore this is what the Lord, the Lord Almighty, says: “My people who live in Zion,     do not be afraid of the Assyrians, who beat you with a rod     and lift up a club against you, as Egypt did. 25 Very soon my anger against you will end     and my wrath will be directe …

Matthew 28:18-20 (NIRV) 18 Then Jesus came to them. He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 So you must go and make disciples of all nations. Baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach them to obey everything I have commande …

Ephesians 2:10 (NLT) For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.   1. Inside the stone   Ezekiel 36:26–27 (MSG) I’ll give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you. I’ll remove the stone heart from your body …

Matthew 7:24-27 (NLT) (Jesus said) — “Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. 25 Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock. 26 B …

Luke 12:1 (NIV) … A crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.”   Luke 12:13 (NIV) Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, …

Luke 16:19-26 (NIV) (Jesus said) — “There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. 20 At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores 21 and longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 …

Matthew 13:34-35 (MSG) All Jesus did that day was tell stories—a long storytelling afternoon. 35 His storytelling fulfilled the prophecy: I will open my mouth and tell stories; I will bring out into the open things hidden since the world’s first day.   Luke 11:5-9 (MSG) “Imagine what would happ …

Matthew 18:20 (NLT) “For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.”   Matthew 18:21,22 (NLT) Then Peter asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” 22 “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!”   …

Mark 4:34 (MSG) Jesus was never without a story when he spoke.   Matthew 13:34-35 (MSG) All Jesus did that day was tell stories—a long storytelling afternoon. 35 His storytelling fulfilled the prophecy: I will open my mouth and tell stories; I will bring out into the open things hidden since th …

Good Dads Are – Good With God!   Romans 7:18 (NLT) I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t.   Godly Goodness involves 2 things – A Right Relationship and a Right Lifestyle!   Romans 1:17 (NCV) The Good News shows how …

Matthew 24:32 (NIV) 32 “Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near.   [1] Just because summer is here doesn’t mean we know how to rest   Job 10:18 (MSG) They are unable to relax and enjoy anything they have …

Joshua 24:15 (NLT) As for me and my family, we will serve the LORD!   Joshua 24:15 (NIV) “If serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose lan …

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 New International Version 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.   Exercise your joy Communicate to God daily Don’t let circumstances ruin your gratitude   [1] Following Jesus… doe …

Big Idea: “God’s got this…and you’re gonna make it through!”   3 things God has for you… God’s got… 1. The answer you need!   Psalm 34:4 & 6 NLT- “I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all of my fears.” 6“In my desperation I prayed, and the Lord listened. He saved …

Foundational Truth #1: Creation – God created space, time and matter for us to live and walk with Him.   Foundational Truth #2: God created man to walk with Him.   Genesis 3:8 And they heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day…   Genesis 5:24 And Eno …

To make the most of our mistakes and life we need to — Reframe our mistakes!   James 3:2 (GW) — All of us make a lot of mistakes.   Mistakes are an essential to growing!   Mistakes are an essential to succeeding!   Recommended book: Failing Forward – John Maxwell   Proverb …

Matthew 28:18-20 (NIRV) 18 Then Jesus came to them. He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 So you must go and make disciples of all nations. Baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach them to obey everything I have commande …

Embrace the hard part of the adventure.   James 1:2-4 (NIV) Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not …

Matthew 28:18-20 (NIRV) 18 Then Jesus came to them. He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 So you must go and make disciples of all nations. Baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach them to obey everything I have commande …

1 Corinthians 10:11 (TLB) All these things happened to them (Old Testament Israel) as examples—as object lessons to us … they were written down so that we could read about them and learn from them in these last days.   Romans 8:37 (NLT) Overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved u …

When you look throughout the bible God has spoken in a number of ways   1 Samuel 3:3-5 (NKJV) … and while Samuel was lying down, the LORD called Samuel. And he answered, “Here I am!” 5 So he ran to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” And he said, “I did not call; lie down again.” And …

Joshua 3:14 (TEV) It was harvest time, and the river was flooded when the Israelites left the camp to cross the Jordan …   To Be an Impossibility Partner with God — Follow God’s Lead!   Joshua 3:3 (NIV) When you see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, and the priests, who are …

Joshua 3:3-4 (NKJV) … and they commanded the people, saying, “When you see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, and the priests, the Levites, bearing it, then you shall set out from your place and go after it. 4 Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by mea …

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”   Rahab’s Story, and Ours, is a – Finding Story!   Joshua 2:1-3 (NLT) Then Joshua secretly sent out two spies from the Israelite c …

[1] His role from creation   Genesis 1:1-2 (NKJV) 1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters   He has been THERE from the start …

Joshua 1:3 (NLT) I promise you what I promised Moses: ‘Wherever you set foot (step), you will be on land I have given you …   2 Corinthians 1:20 (NIV) For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ …   To Experience Our God Promised Future – Never Stop … Stepp …

2 Chronicles 32:1 NIV “AFTER all that Hezekiah had so faithfully done, Sennacherib king of Assyria came and invaded Judah. He laid siege to the fortified cities, thinking to conquer them for himself.”   When facing a battle on the other side of breakthrough…   1. REALIZE that the place of …

[1] What the bible teaches us about Satan   He was once guardian cherub   Ezekiel 28:11-15 NIV 11 The word of the Lord came to me: 12 “Son of man, take up a lament concerning the king of Tyre and say to him: ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: “‘You were the seal of perfection, full of …

Mark 16:1-7 (MSG) When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so they could embalm Jesus. 2 Very early on Sunday morning, as the sun rose, they went to the tomb. 3 They worried out loud to each other, ‘Who will roll back the stone from the tomb for u …

Jesus’ Palm Sunday Parade Was – God Timed!   John 7:3-6 (NLT) Jesus’ brothers said to him, “Leave here and go to Judea, where your followers can see your miracles! 4 You can’t become famous if you hide like this! If you can do such wonderful things, show yourself to the world!” 5 For even his b …

[1] We can feel angry with ourselves… because we feel stuck   Romans 7:15-20 New International Reader’s Version 15 I don’t understand what I do. I don’t do what I want to do. Instead, I do what I hate to do. 16 I do what I don’t want to do. So I agree that the law is good. 17 As it is, I am no …

John 12:1-3 (NIV) Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. 3 Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expe …

[1] The bible records for us people who have been angry at God   Moses has been mad at God   Exodus 5:22-23 (NIV) 22 Moses returned to the Lord and said, “Why, Lord, why have you brought trouble on this people? Is this why you sent me? 23 Ever since I went to Pharaoh to speak in your name, …

Proverbs 18:21 (MSG) “Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit…you choose.”   Big Idea: Trust is always the door to God’s “more”   4 Doors of Trust…   Door #1- Trusting God with…what we see   1 Kings 17:7 (NLT) 7 But after a while the brook dried up, for there …

Ephesians 4:26-32 (NIV) 26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to shar …

Song of Songs 2:1-15   There three keys that will improve all of your relationships:   Key #1: Recognize the value of those you love. (v. 1-3)   She is fishing for compliments. (v. 1)   He could not have responded better. (v. 2)   She responded with encouraging words of her …

[1] Jesus wants us to be powerful believers   Acts 1:8 (NIRV) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you. Then you will tell people about me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria. And you will even tell other people about me from one end of the earth to the other.”   …

Loving Choice #1: Get Relationally Healthy!   Ruth 1:16-17 (NLT) “Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. 17 … May the Lord punish me severely if I allow anything but death to separate us!”   Loving Choice #2: Pay Relational Attention!   Ruth 2:5-7 (NLT) Boaz asked …

[1] If I’m going to love like Jesus… I must love my family   John 19:25-27 New International Version 25 Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.26 When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, …

1 John 4:19 (MSG) First we were loved, now we love. God loved us first.   God Expresses His Great Love In – TRANSFORMING Ways!   Ruth 1:1-5 (NLT) In the days when the judges ruled in Israel, a severe famine came upon the land. So a man from Bethlehem in Judah left his home and went to live …

1 Corinthians 12:29-31 (NLT) 31 So you should earnestly desire the most helpful gifts. But now let me show you a way of life that is best of all.   1 Corinthians 13:1-3 (NLT) If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a cla …

• The fight response   • The flight response   • The freeze response   • The fawn response   THE DEVIL HATES YOU.   1 Peter 5:8 (NIV) 8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls (moves around restlessly) around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. …

1 Chronicles 4:9-10 (NIV) Jabez was more honorable (respected) than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” 10 Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so …

Luke 24:13-14 (NIV) Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem.  They were talking with each other about everything that had happened.   Luke 24:17-24 (NIV) He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?” they stood …

Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future!   Proverbs 13:20 (MSG) Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces.   We Make Great Friends By – Becoming One!   Proverbs 22:11 (NLT) Whoever loves a pure heart and gracious speech wil …

Psalm 91:1-2, 9-12 (NIV) 1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”… 9 If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, 10 no harm will o …

Practice #1 for Building Better Habits – Regularly Examine Them!   Psalm 139:23,24 (NASB) Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; 24 and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.   What are the long-term consequences of my …

Psalm 91:1-8 NIV 1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” 3 Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. 4 He will cover you with …

Great Choice Making “How-To” #1 – Prioritize The Best Values!   Values are life-directing!   Matthew 6:19-21 (MSG) Don’t hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust or—worse!—stolen by burglars. Stockpile treasure in heaven, where it’s safe from moth and rust …

Psalm 91:1-8 (NIV) 1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” 3 Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. 4 He will cover you wit …

Deuteronomy 30:19,20 (NLT) “Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live (really and fully live)! 20 … This is the k …

Matthew 14:22-32 22 Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd.   23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone,   24 and the boat was …

Isaiah 9:6 (NLT) For a child is born to us, a son is given to us … and he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.   Jesus came to be our — “Wonderful Counselor!”   James 1:5 (NLT) If you need wisdom—if you want to know what God wants you to …

Isaiah 7:14- “The virgin will conceive a child! She will call him Immanuel which means God with us.”   3 promises we need this Christmas…   He’s with us… 1. When everything around us is changing   Luke 1:26-30 (NLT) “In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy God sent the angel Gabri …

There are 5 key elements to every story….   1) Plot 2) Setting 3) Characters 4) Point of view 5) Conflict   Luke 2:22-31 (NIV) 22 When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is writ …

Matthew 1:18-19 (NIRV) 18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about. His mother Mary and Joseph had promised to get married. But before they started to live together, it became clear that she was going to have a baby. She became pregnant by the power of the Holy Spirit. 19 Her husband Jo …

Psalm 23:5-6 (NIV) You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely your goodness and love will follow (pursue) me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.   We Can Face The Future Confidently …

 Psalm 23:4 (NLT) When (not if) I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid (I’ll be dark valley strong), for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.   Dark Valley Trips Are — Good Shepherd Planned!   James 1:2-4 (MSG) Consider it a sheer gift, …

1 Peter 5:6-10 NIV 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him,  …

Psalm 23:3 (NIV) He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.   To Experience “Divine Guidance” We Must Be – Guidable!   We become guidable by surrendering!   Luke 9:23 (MSG) “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat—I am … fo …

[1] The bible prophesy’s that Israel would be born in a day   Isaiah 66:8 (NIRV) 8 Who has ever heard of anything like that? Who has ever seen such a thing? Can a country be born in a day? Can a nation be created in a moment? But as soon as Zion goes into labor, there are many more of her peopl …

Zechariah 12:2-3 New International Reader’s Version 2 “Jerusalem will be like a cup in my hand. It will make all the surrounding nations drunk from the wine of my anger. Judah will be attacked by its enemies. So will Jerusalem. 3 At that time all the nations on earth will gather together against Jer …

Psalm 23:2 (NASV) — He restores my soul;   Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my bur …

[1] Words are powerful and consequential   Proverbs 18:21 (AB) Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it and indulge it will eat its fruit and bear the consequences of their words.   [2] The words of the wise are life giving and life guiding   Proverbs 10:21 …

Psalm 23:1 (NIV) The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.   Psalm 23:2 (NIV) He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,   Ezekiel 34:20-22 (MSG) GOD, the Master, says: “I myself am stepping in and making things right between the plump sheep and the skinny shee …

Genesis 12:1-3 (NIRV) The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s family. Go to the land I will show you. 2 “I will make you into a great nation. And I will bless you. I will make your name great. You will be a blessing to others. 3 I will bless those who bless y …

Psalm 23:1 (NIV) The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.   “Living Beyond Lack” Begins With – Recognizing We’re Sheep-Like!   We, like sheep, are high maintenance!   We, like sheep, are often directionally-challenged!   Isaiah 53:6 (MGS) We’re all like sheep who’ve wandered off …

[1] God wants to bless your success   The word BLESS shows up 34 times in Proverbs [AMP]   Proverbs 10:22  The blessing of the Lord brings [true] riches,
 And He adds no sorrow to it [for it comes as a blessing from God].   Proverbs 8:32-34 32 “Now therefore, O sons, listen to me, For …

Matthew 24:3 (NCV) What will be the sign that it is time for you to come again and for this age to end?   Matthew 25:1-13 (CEV)   Stage #1 – The Wedding Arrangement! Stage #2 — The Betrothal! Stage #3 — The Wedding Event!   The future God has planned and promises is – Full of celebr …

[1] What will make me great in God’s eyes?   Proverbs 16:32 (NKJV) He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.   Amplified Bible He who is slow to anger is better and more honorable than the mighty [soldier], And he who rules and …

3 John, Verse 2 (AMP) I pray that in every way you may succeed and prosper and be in good health, just as [I know] your soul prospers [spiritually].    To Prosper in Every Financial Season – Put God First!   Haggai 1:6-7 (NLT) God says — “You have planted much but harvested little. You ha …

Habakkuk 1:2 (NLT) How long, O LORD, must I call for help? But you do not listen!   Habakkuk 2:1 (NLT) I will climb up to my watchtower and stand at my guardpost. There I will wait to see what the LORD says and how he will answer …   Habakkuk 2:2-4 (NLT) Then the LORD said to me, “Write …

God has called you to be a steward over a vision   What does a person do when the truth comes to them?   Some people are wise   Some people are fools   Some people are evil   All of us have all of these parts… Some make a career out of one of them   (1) THE WISE   …

Great leaders see everyone in the room. Poor leaders only notice those who notice them   Nobody’s success is robbing your potential   How you describe someone when they’re not around tells me more about you then it does about them   The secret to longevity is simple: don’t self-destru …

Luke 5:37-38 (NIV) And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the new wine will burst the skins; the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. 38 No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins.    Have you ever received something, with nowhere to store, host or handle it …

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NLT) — For everything there is a season,   Rhythm is something you either have or don’t have, but when you have it, you have it all over. — Elvis Presley   Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NLT) — For everything there is a season, a time (literally rhythm) for every activity under hea …

[1] Wisdom calls out to us at the place of decision   Proverbs 8:1-9 (NIRV) Doesn’t wisdom call out? Doesn’t understanding raise her voice? 2 At the highest point along the way, she takes her place where the paths meet. 3 Beside the gate leading into the city, she cries out at the entrance. She …

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NLT) For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.   Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NCT) Everything on earth has its special season.   Seizing the Season Takes – Seasonal Awareness!   There are — Physical Seasons! “There’s a time to be born, and time …

Big Idea: “We don’t just need more friends in our life, we need the right friends”   Fearless friends…   1. Will hold up our battle weary arms when needed   Exodus 17:8-13 NLT 8 While the people of Israel were still at Rephidim, the warriors of Amalek attacked them. 9 Moses commanded …

BIG IDEA: We’re always one decision away from serving selflessly!   4 heart engaging decisions…   1. To use what they had in whatever way needed   Acts 18:1-3 NLT 18 Then Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. 2 There he became acquainted with a Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who ha …

Big Idea: “The journey to a fully engaged heart often takes us from brokenness to breakthrough”   3 moments to embrace on the journey to breakthrough and a fully engaged life…   When God… 1. Shows us an open door to a new future   Genesis 28:12-17 (NLT) 12 As he slept, he dreamed of a …

1 Samuel 30:1-6 (NIV) David and his men reached Ziklag on the third day. Now the Amalekites had raided the Negev and Ziklag. They had attacked Ziklag and burned it, 2 and had taken captive the women and everyone else in it, both young and old. They killed none of them, but carried them off as they w …

#1: There’s a Dependence Factor to Miraculous Victories!   Judges 7:2 (NLT) “You have too many warriors with you. If I let all of you fight the Midianites, the Israelites will boast to me that they saved themselves by their own strength.”   Judges 7:4-7 (NLT) The LORD told Gideon, “There a …

Romans 8:37 (TLB) Overwhelming victory is ours through Christ who loved us enough to die for us.   Judges 6:25-32 (NLT) … The LORD said to Gideon, “Take the second bull from your father’s herd, the one that is seven years old. Pull down your father’s altar to Baal, and cut down the Asherah po …

1 Corinthians 10:11 (NLT) These things happened to them (people in the Old Testament) as examples for us.   Judges 6:11-16 (NLT) The angel of the LORD came and sat beneath the great tree at Ophrah, which belonged to Joash of the clan of Abiezer. Gideon son of Joash was threshing wheat at the bo …

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (AMP) In every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.   [1] Ungratefulness is a door closer   Numbers 14:2-3, 11, 23-24, 26 (NIV) 2 All the Israelites grumbled ag …

Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control.   The Fruit of “Gentleness” Is About – Strength Under Control!   The “fruit of gentleness” is essential for defus …

To cultivate faithfulness we have to…   1. Embrace Obedience   Genesis 22:1 NLT 22 Sometime later, God tested Abraham’s faith. “Abraham!” God called. “Yes,” he replied. “Here I am.”   Genesis 22:2 NLT 2 “Take your son, your only son—yes, Isaac, whom you love so much—and go to the land …

Godly goodness is a life of integrity!   We Cultivate Goodness By – Prioritizing Integrity!   Integrity gives us credibility!   Titus 2:7 (NLT) — Let everything you do reflect the integrity … of your teaching (what you say).   Proverbs 25:19 (NLT) — Putting confidence in an u …

Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control.   Romans 2:4 (GW) Don’t you realize that it is God’s kindness that is trying to lead you to him and change the way you …

[1] Everyday remind yourself who you are in Jesus   The best way to remind yourself is with prayers of thanks   1 Thessalonians 5:18 Amplified Bible 18 In every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you …

Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience,   Cultivating God’s Patience Takes – Managing Our Anger!   Ephesians 4:26 (MSG) Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry—but don’t use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don …

We all experience desert places in this life.   John 16:33 NIV “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”    We need living water to bring life to our souls.   Isaiah 44:3 NIV “For I …

Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control.   John 14:27 (NLT) “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart … the peace I give is a gift the world cann …

[1] Paul does not describe our battle to scare us but to prepare us   Ephesians 6:10-12 New King James Version 10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we …

It takes 5 good comments to balance out 1 bad one.   I am a recipient of God’s grace (2 Corinthians 12:9)   God will give me wisdom (James 1:5)   I am God’s masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10)   God keeps my mind in perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3)   The plans of the Lord stand firm for …

Exodus 3:10-11 (NIV) So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt.” 11 But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?”   Exodus 4:1-2 (NIV) Moses answered, “What if they do not believe me or listen to …

Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control.   Joy-Cultivating Skill #1: Reframe Every Circumstance!   Philippians 1:12 (NLT) I want you to know, my dear brot …

[1] The bible urges us to build ourselves up by praying in the Spirit   Jude 20 New English Translation 20 But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith, by praying in the Holy Spirit…   Jude 16-21 New International Reader’s Version 16 These people complain and f …

  Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control.   Fruit Fact #1: Fruit is revealing!   Fruit Fact #2: Fruit exists for others!   Fruit Fact #3: A fru …

1 Samuel 30:8-31 New International Version 8 and David inquired of the Lord, “Shall I pursue this raiding party? Will I overtake them?” “Pursue them,” he answered. “You will certainly overtake them and succeed in the rescue.” 9 David and the six hundred men with him came to the Besor Valley, where s …

Big Idea: Moments with Jesus Matter   1. When Jesus is in the house…press in   Luke 7:36-38 (NLT) 36 One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to have dinner with him, so Jesus went to his home and sat down to eat. 37 When a certain immoral woman from that city heard he was eating there, she brough …

Ephesians 6:10 (NIRV) Finally, let the Lord make you strong. Depend on his mighty power.   GWT Finally, receive your power from the Lord and from his mighty strength.   AB In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [draw your strength from Him and be empowered through your union with Him] and in …

[1] Every believer will find themselves in seasons of tiredness   Matthew 11:28 (NIV) “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened…”   Isaiah 40:30 (ESV)  Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted;   [2] Leaders learn how to get their strength back …

Romans 8:15 (MSG) This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It’s adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike “What’s next, Papa?”   Easter People Live With — Resurrected Hope!   Luke 24:13-21   Our hopes sometimes die because of fault …

Matt 3:11 NKJV I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.   Acts 17:28 NKJV For in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own …

[1] There was once a prophecy about a lucky donkey!   Matthew 21:1-11 (NLT) As Jesus and the disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the town of Bethphage on the Mount of Olives. Jesus sent two of them on ahead. 2 “Go into the village over there,” he said. “As soon as you enter it, you wil …

There are 2 types of people:   Type #1 People who that feel they do not qualify   Genesis 1:2 NKJV The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.   Formless – lie waste, desolation, worthl …

[1] “Spiritual Gifts” are spirit-given abilities !   1 Corinthians 12:1-7 (NLT) And now, dear brothers and sisters, I will write about the special abilities the Holy Spirit gives to each of us, for I must correct your misunderstandings about them… … 4 Now there are different kinds of spirit …

John 16:7 (NKJV) “Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.   John 14:15-18 (NKJV)  “If you love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He will …

Ephesians 6:18 (NIV) Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests … be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.   The Holy Spirit empowers our praying!   First, the Holy Spirit stirs us to pray!   Revelation 3:20 (NLT) I stand at the …

[1] The mission of Jesus was the will of God   John 6:38-40 ESV 38 For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me. 39 And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. 40 For …

Romans 7:14-23 (MSG) What I don’t understand about myself is I decide one way but end up acting another way … I can will it, but I can’t do it … my decisions don’t result in better actions. Something gets the better of me every time. And it happens so regularly that it’s predictable. I’ve tried …

Psalm 119:105 New International Reader’s Version Your word is like a lamp that shows me the way. It is like a light that guides me.   [1] The word helps us understand God   God’s character   Psalm 37:23 New Living Translation The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in eve …

Isaiah 42:16 (MSG) I’ll take the hand of those who don’t know the way, who can’t see where they’re going. I’ll be a personal guide to them, directing them through unknown country. I’ll be right there to show them what roads to take … sticking with them, not leaving them for a minute.   John 1 …

[1] If we want our ears wide open to God’s voice… we must believe God speaks through dreams   [a] Though God is not the source of every dream, he does speak through them!   Job 33:14-18 Living Bible 14 “For God speaks again and again, 15 in dreams, in visions of the night when deep sleep f …

Power Lesson #1: Our heaven-sent Helper empowers us personally!   Acts 1:8 (NLT) (Jesus said) — “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth …

[1] God wants us to know… he is our healer   Exodus 15:26 English Standard Version … I am the Lord, your healer.” [Jehovah-Rapha]   Psalm 103:2-4 New International Version 2 Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— 3 who forgives all your sins  and heals all your diseases …

John 14:16 (TEV) (Jesus said) I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, who will stay with you forever.   [1] Our heaven-sent Helper is – someone we need to know!   John 16:7 (MSG) “… It’s better for you that I leave. If I don’t leave, the [Helper] won’t come. But if I go …

[1]  ONE WAY   John 14:6 (NIV) Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”   John 8:32 (NIV) Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.   Psalm 32:8 (NIV) I will instruct you and teach you in the way you sh …

Ephesians 3:16-18 (NLT) 16 I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. 17 Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. 18 And may you have the power …

[1] The Bible teaches if you are a believer you will fast   Luke 4:1-2, 14 (NIV) Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, 2 where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hun …

Luke 11:1 (NLT) 1 Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”   Luke 11:2-4 (NLT) 2 Jesus said, “This is how you should pray: “Father, may your name be kept holy.     May your …

[1] Tests aren’t just for students   1 John 4:1 Living Bible Dearly loved friends, don’t always believe everything you hear just because someone says it is a message from God: test it first to see if it really is. For there are many false teachers around…   John 7:16-17 The Message Jesus s …

Life-Investing Practice #1: Pursue the most valuable treasures!   Matthew 6:19-20 (GW) “Stop storing up treasures for yourselves on earth, where moths and rust destroy and thieves break in and steal. 20 Instead, store up treasures for yourselves in heaven, where moths and rust don’t destroy and …

[1] Hearing God’s voice proves we are his children!   John 10:27-30 (NLT) My sheep listen [hear] to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.    John 8:47 (NIRV) 47 Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you don’t hear is that you don’t belong to God.”   [2] God calle …

[1] New and improved relationships happen by – Assessing and improving our relational health!   Matthew 5:48 (NIV) Be perfect, therefore, even as your heavenly Father is perfect.   Psalms 139:23,24 (GW) Examine me, O God, and know my mind. Test me, and know my thoughts. 24 See whether I am …

[1] What I need to know about the Holy Spirit   [a] Jesus had the Holy Spirit   Luke 4:1 Worldwide English (New Testament) Jesus was full of the Holy Spirit. He left the Jordan River, and the Spirit led him into the desert for forty days.   [b] Jesus promised the Holy Spirit   Jo …

Ephesians 3:20 (TLB)   Now glory be to God, who by his mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of—infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, or hopes.   [1] Living beyond our regrets begins with reviewing them!   The …

1 Kings 3:9 The Message “Here’s what I want: Give me a God-listening heart so I can lead your people well, discerning the difference between good and evil. For who on their own is capable of leading your glorious people?”   [1] If we want to hear God speak… we need to ask   1 Samuel 3:6-11 …

[1] To make room for new chapters, forget the old ones!   Isaiah 43:18-19 (MSG) “Forget about what’s happened; don’t keep going over old history. 19 Be alert, be present. I’m about to do something brand-new. It’s bursting out! Don’t you see it?”   Philippians 3:13-14 (GW) Brothers and sist …

John 3:16 (NLT) For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.   God is a giver … not a taker!   “God loved the world so much that he gave …”   Giving … is what love does! Giving … is how …

Big Idea: God’s hand is always open with the gift of hope we need   3 hope ‘gifts’ from God…   1. Hope…for anyone who needs a second chance   Isaiah 40:1-2 (NLT) “Comfort, comfort my people,”     says your God. 2 “Speak tenderly to Jerusalem. Tell her that her sad days are gone     an …

[1] The good news is Christmas Joy… is for everyone!   Luke 2:10 (GWT) The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid! I have good news for you, a message that will fill everyone with joy.”   Revelation 7:9-10 (ESV) 9 After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, f …

#1: Christmas Challenges Our Plans!   Luke 2:1-5 (NIV) In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register. 4 …

Influencing Choice #1: Godly influencers boost their competencies!   Daniel 6:2,3 (NLT) The king … chose Daniel and two others as administrators to supervise the high officers and protect the king’s interests. 3 Daniel soon proved himself more capable than all the other administrators and hig …

Daniel 4:10-17 (NLT) While I was lying in my bed, this is what I dreamed. I saw a large tree in the middle of the earth. 11 The tree grew very tall and strong, reaching high into the heavens for all the world to see. 12 It had fresh green leaves, and it was loaded with fruit for all to eat. Wild ani …

Mark 9:2-9 2 And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, 3 and his clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them. 4 And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, a …

Daniel 3:1-6 (NLT) King Nebuchadnezzar made a gold statue ninety feet tall and nine feet wide and set it up on the plain of Dura in the province of Babylon. 2 Then he sent messages to the high officers, officials, governors, advisers, treasurers, judges, magistrates, and all the provincial officials …

Revelation 22:13 (NIV) I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.   Genesis 3:1 Adam and Eve   Numbers 20:8 Moses and the Rock   2 Samuel 11:2-4 David and Bathsheba   John 13:27 Judas and Jesus   Matthew 4:1-11 Jesus and Satan

Daniel 2:1-3 (NIV) In the second year of his reign, Nebuchadnezzar had dreams; his mind was troubled and he could not sleep. 2 So the king summoned the magicians, enchanters, sorcerers and astrologers to tell him what he had dreamed. When they came in and stood before the king, 3 he said to them, “I …

1 Chronicles 4:10 (ESV) 10 Jabez called upon the God of Israel, saying, “Oh that you would bless me and enlarge my border, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from harm so that it might not bring me pain!” And God granted what he asked.   3 Truths the Bible teaches u …

Daniel 1:1-3 (NLT) During the third year of King Jehoiakim’s reign in Judah, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. 2 The Lord gave him victory over King Jehoiakim of Judah and permitted him to take some of the sacred objects from the Temple of God. So Nebuchadnezzar took …

1 Chronicles 4:10 (AB) 10 Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, saying, “Oh that You would indeed bless me and enlarge my border [property], and that Your hand would be with me, and You would keep me from evil so that it does not hurt me!” And God granted his request.   [1] It is by God’s hands …

Big Idea: Showing God’s love to the people right next to you   Acts 3:1-3 (NLT) Peter and John went to the Temple one afternoon to take part in the three o’clock prayer service. 2 As they approached the Temple, a man lame from birth was being carried in. Each day he was put beside the Temple ga …

1 Chronicles 4:9-10 (NIV) 9 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” 10 Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I wil …

Colossians 1:16 (MSG) For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible … everything got started in him (in Christ) and finds its purpose in him.   John 10:10 (MSG) A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, …

1 Chronicles 4:9-10 (NIV) 9 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” 10 Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I wil …

Romans 15:13 (NLT) “I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace, because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope thru the power of the Holy Spirit.”   Big Idea: The ‘more’ we need, to live the ‘more’ we were made for…is found in Jesus! …

Pure Heart Matthew 5:8 (NIV) Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.   Pray Gods Will Luke 22:42 (NIV) Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.   Patience Psalms 27:12 (NIV) Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for …

Mark 10:43-45 (MSG) Whoever wants to be great must become a servant. 44 Whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave. 45 That is what the Son of Man has done: He came to serve, not to be served—and then to give away his life in exchange for many who are held hostage.”   [1] Every one …

1 Chronicles 4:9-10 (NIV) 9 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” 10 Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I wil …

1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT) No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.   Ephesians 3:20 (TLB) Now glory be to God, who by his mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of—infinite …

Ephesians 6:18-20 (NIV) 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the myst …

PSALM 23:6 (NIV) Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.   PSALM 23:6 (GW) Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life, and I will remain in the Lord’s house for days without end. …

Acts 1:8 (NIV) You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.   [1] The “Good Stuff” God Has for Us Is Purposeful!   The Holy Spirit empow …

Psalm 23:1-5 (NIV) 1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.2     He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,3     he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you …

1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT) No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.   Ephesians 3:20 (TLB) Now glory be to God, who by his mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of—infinite …

CEV I may walk through valleys as dark as death, but I won’t be afraid. You are with me, and your shepherd’s rod makes me feel safe.   [1] Your shepherd is a warrior!   Exodus 15:1-5 (NIV) Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the Lord: “I will sing to the Lord, for he is highly …

BIG IDEA: “A connected life is a flourishing and fruitful life”   John 15:1-2 (NLT) “I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.   John 1 …

Psalm 23 (NIV) 1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with …

Big Idea: Change is never easy, but it’s always necessary if we want to grow     Mark 2:18-20 (NLT) 18 Once when John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting, some people came to Jesus and asked, “Why don’t your disciples fast like John’s disciples and the Pharisees do?” 19 Jesus replie …

Psalm 23 (NIV) 1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2     He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3     he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths     for his name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk     through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil,   …

Exodus 3:14 (NIV) God said to Moses, “I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I am has sent me to you.’”     Acts 1:8-9 (NLT) 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusal …

Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV) 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.   But the fruit of the Spirit is love   But the fruit of the Spirit is joy   But the fruit of …

LUKE 10:25-26 NLT 25 One day, an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: “teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 Jesus replied, “what does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?”     LUKE 10:27 NLT 27 The man answered, “You must love t …

Ecclesiastes 7:8 (NLT) Finishing is better than starting.   Finishing Smart Principle #1: Don’t Do Stupid Things!   Proverbs 19:3 (MSG) People ruin their lives by their own stupidity, so why does GOD always get blamed?     1 Kings 11:1-3 (NLT) Now King Solomon loved many foreign …

  Smart Parenting Principle #1: Be Committed to Training!     Proverbs 22:6 (GW) Train a child in the way he/she should go, and when they are old, they will not turn away from it.     Deuteronomy 6:5-7 (MSG) Love GOD, your God, with your whole heart: love him with all that’s …

Proverbs 13:17 (TLB) Reliable communication permits progress.     [1] Smart Communicators Prioritize Understanding!     Proverbs 16:21 (NLT) The wise are known for their understanding, and pleasant words are persuasive.     Proverbs 18:2 (NLT) Fools have no interest in …

  [1]     We need to look for, and be, a friend who – Measures up!   Proverbs 12:26 (NIV) The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.       Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future!       Proverbs 13:20 …

Smart Choice #1: Trust God Totally!   Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. 6 Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.   Smart Choice #2: Seek the best, not our personal preference!   Proverbs …

  2 Peter 3:9 (MSG) God isn’t late with his (last days) promises as some measure lateness. He is restraining himself on account of you, holding back the End because he doesn’t want anyone lost. He’s giving everyone space and time to change.     Recommended Books: The Illustrated Guide …

  Psalms 105  16 He called for a famine on the land of Canaan,     cutting off its food supply. 17 Then he sent someone to Egypt ahead of them—     Joseph, who was sold as a slave. 18 They bruised his feet with fetters     and placed his neck in an iron collar. 19 Until the time came to fulfill …

  Future Instruction #1: Buckle Up!     2 Timothy 3:1-5 (NLT) You should know this … that in the last days there will be very difficult times. 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and …

Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT) Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. …

    Matthew 24:3-8 (NLT) Jesus’ disciples came to him privately and said, “Tell us, when will all this happen? What sign will signal your return and the end of the world?” 4 Jesus told them, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, 5 for many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah.’ They …

Matthew 14:17-33 (NLT) 17 “But we have only five loaves of bread and two fish!” they answered. 18 “Bring them here,” he said. 19 Then he told the people to sit down on the grass. Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces …

   Acts 2:15-21 (MSG) These people aren’t drunk as some of you suspect. They haven’t had time to get drunk—it’s only nine o’clock in the morning. 16 This is what the prophet Joel announced would happen: 17 “In the Last Days,” God says, “I will pour out my Spirit on every kind of people: Your so …

Matthew 11:28-30  NIV 28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”   The invitation…come unt …

Romans 8:28 (NLT) “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.”     Big Idea: “I may be in a new season, but He’s still the same God!”     We need to take hold of… 1. His Promise… …

[1] Jesus made room for children!   Matthew 19:13-15 (NIV) 13 Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them. 14 Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven …

Launching adults requires less rescuing!     To adult children, unsolicited advice feels like criticism.  – Jim Burns      1 Samuel 2:26 (ESV)  And the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor with the Lord and with people.       Luke 2:40 (ESV)   And the ch …

Matthew 4:18-20 (NIV) 18 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” 20 At once they lef …

John 21:1-8 (NLT) Later, Jesus appeared again to the disciples beside the Sea of Galilee. 2 Several of the disciples were there—Simon Peter, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples. 3 Simon Peter said, “I’m going fishing.” “We’ll come …

John 1:35-40 (NLT) 35 The following day John was again standing with two of his disciples. 36 As Jesus walked by, John looked at him and declared, “Look! There is the Lamb of God!” 37 When John’s two disciples heard this, they followed Jesus. 38 Jesus looked around and saw them following. “What do y …

[1]    One of the ways to “see” Easter is with our Physical eyes!     John 20:1-2 (NIV) Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. 2 So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disc …

  [1]          The Cross Says – I Am Loved By God!   John 3:16 NLT “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.     Jesus was given… that we might hear about the love of God   …

John 20:30-31 (NIV) Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.     John 9:1-2 (MSG) Wal …

Ephesians 2:8-10 (NIV) 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.   …

John 5:1-9 (NLT) Afterward Jesus returned to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish holy days. 2 Inside the city, near the Sheep Gate, was the pool of Bethesda, with five covered porches. 3 Crowds of sick people—blind, lame, or paralyzed—lay on the porches. 5 One of the men lying there had been sick for th …

Psalm 12:1 (NIV) Help, Lord, for no one is faithful anymore; those who are loyal have vanished from the human race.   Lamentations 3:22-23 (NLT) 22 The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. 23 Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.   Deut …

John 4:46-54 (NLT) As Jesus traveled through Galilee, he came to Cana, where he had turned the water into wine. There was a government official in nearby Capernaum whose son was very sick. 47 When he heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went and begged Jesus to come to Capernaum to he …

2 Corinthians 12:1-4 (NLT) This boasting will do no good, but I must go on. I will reluctantly tell about visions and revelations from the Lord. 2 I was caught up to the third heaven fourteen years ago. Whether I was in my body or out of my body, I don’t know—only God knows. 3 Yes, only God knows wh …

John 20:30,31 (NIV) — Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.     [1] Believe in th …

[A] God is in harmony with himself!   John 17:21-26 (NLT) 21 I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me. 22 “I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one a …

[1] God wants us positioned for his blessings!     Matthew 5:3 (NIV) “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”     Matthew 5:3 (AMP CE) Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous—with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvatio …

Psalm 23:1-4 (KJV) The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, …

Big Idea: “It’s not how you start that matters, it’s how you finish”     John 17:1-3- After saying all these things, Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so he can give glory back to you. 2 For you have given him authority over everyone. He gives …

Romans 8:28 (NIV) And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.   [1] This was written because… whatever we are in… we are in the middle of it!   [2] This was written because… we deal with questions and doubts! …

Satisfaction Secret #1: Learn “Here and Now” Contentment!     Philippians 4:11-12 (NIV) … I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation …

Psalm 119:68 CEV 68 You are kindhearted (“good” – NIV), and you do good things, so teach me your laws.   Genesis 1:31 NIV 31 God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.   Matthew 5:3 NIV “Blessed are the poor in spirit, fo …

Anxiety Antidote #1: Prioritize and Practice Rejoicing!     Philippians 4:4 (NIV) Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!     Habakkuk 3:17-18 (NIV) Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields …

Hebrews 11:6 (AB) But without faith it is impossible to [walk with God and] please Him, for whoever comes [near] to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He rewards those who [earnestly and diligently] seek Him.   [1] Faith begins with receiving… what God has said!   Roma …

Philippians 4:1-3 (MSG) My dear, dear friends! I love you so much. I do want the very best for you. You make me feel such joy, fill me with such pride. Don’t waver. Stay on track, steady in God. 2 I urge Euodia and Syntyche to iron out their differences and make up. God doesn’t want his children hol …

Habakkuk 3:17-19 NIV 17 Though the fig tree does not bud     and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails     and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen     and no cattle in the stalls, 18 yet I will rejoice in the Lord,     I will be joyful in God my S …

  [1] To be genuinely and lastingly joyful, we must “chase the prize” of – Knowing Christ!     Philippians 3:7-10 (MSG) The very credentials … people are waving around as something special, I’m tearing up and throwing out with the trash – along with everything else I used to take cred …

[1] To Fulfill Our Joy Potential We Need To … Work Out!   Philippians 2:12-13 (NIV) Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to wi …

Best Joy Practice #1: Be others-centered not self-centered!     Philippians 2:3 (NIV) Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.     We need to evaluate our ambitions on a regular basis!     Philippians 3:10 (J.B. Phillips) How changed are my ambitions! Now I l …

[1] To discover joy in difficult times and places —  Look for godly opportunities not at restricting circumstances!     Philippians 1:12 (NIV) Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.     Acts 28:30-31 …

  Joyfulness Choice #1: Be Thankful!     Philippians 1:3 (NIV) — I thank my God every time I remember you.      Gratitude Exercises: Write down things in life that you are grateful for; keep a gratitude journal!  Write thank you notes to those who have helped or encouraged you a …

  Luke 1:28-35 (NLT)         Gabriel appeared to Mary and said, “Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you!”          29 Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. 30 “Don’t be afraid, Mary,” the angel told her, “for you have found favor with God! 31 You will conceiv …

Directional Help #1: When God Gives a “Starry Sign”, follow it!     Matthew 2:1-2 (NLT) Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, 2 “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his …

John 1:5- “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”   BIG IDEA: Our hope is found in the “Light” on the tree!   Hope Building Truth #1 Darkness and Despair will never have the last word   Isaiah 9:1a- “Nevertheless, that time of darkness and despair …

Matthew 5:14-16 NIV 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they …

3 THINGS THAT WILL NEVER EVER CHANGE IN THIS EVER-CHANGING WORLD:     I. GOD’S LOVE FOR YOU NEVER CHANGES     Malachi 3:6a “I am the LORD, and I do not change.”     Jeremiah 31:3b “I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn y …

James 5:16 (NIV) The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.     #1: Powerful and Effective Pray-ers are – Right-Standing People!     Being “righteous” is about “standing right” with God!     Romans 4:2-5 (MSG) Abraham trusted God to set him right instea …

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NLT) For everything there is a season, a time for every activity/experience under heaven.   #1: God’s Strategy for “Stressful Seasons” is to Pray!   James 5:13 (NLT) Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray.   God cares about us, and what stresses us! …

There Are Conflict “Triggers!”   Conflict Trigger #1: Unchecked Desires!     James 4:1 (NIV) What causes fights and quarrels among you (among Christians)? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?     Conflict Trigger #2: Pride!     James 4:2 (NIV) …

NOTES:  Matthew 12:36 (MSG) Words are powerful; take them seriously.     #1: Our Words Have Life-Directing Power!     James 3:3-5 (MSG) A bit in the mouth of a horse controls the whole horse. 4 A small rudder on a huge ship in the hands of a skilled captain sets a course in the f …

#1 — Real Christians With Real Faith Don’t Discriminate!         James 2:1 (NLT) My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?         God never discriminates against us! …

James 1:22 (NIV) Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.         Doing Essential #1 – Preparing!         James 1:21 (NLT) So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in yo …

James 1:19-20 (NLT) Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. 20 Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.         Be quick to … listen!  Be slow to … speak!  Be slow to … get angr …

James 1:13-16 (NLT) And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. 14 Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. 15 These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin i …

James 1:1 (GW) From James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. To God’s faithful people who have been scattered. Greetings.         Matthew 13:55 (NIV) Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t his mother’s name Mary, and aren’t his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas? …

Matthew 18:21-22 (NKJV) Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.”         We love the idea of Amazing Grace …

1 Corinthians 15:57-58 (NIV) 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you.          We can experience daily victories… when we position ourselves for it!     …

Big Idea: “No storm will ever have the last word with your story!”   Acts 8:1-3- Saul was one of the witnesses, and he agreed completely with the killing of Stephen. A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusalem; and all the believers except the apostles were …

Big Idea: “No matter what’s happening around you right now…look up and lock eyes with Jesus”       3 takeaways for us “right now”…       1. The penetration of truth is always a moment of choice       Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is alive and powerful …

The Power of your word       Words have Power       Proverbs 18:20-21 “From the fruit of his mouth a man’s stomach is filled; with the harvest from his lips he is satisfied. The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”   …

Feeding a Hurting World Mark 6:32-44 NLT          32 So they left by boat for a quiet place, where they could be alone. 33 But many people recognized them and saw them leaving, and people from many towns ran ahead along the shore and got there ahead of them. 34 Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped …

Big Idea: “Think WE not ME”           Genesis 2:18-23 NLT 18 Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.” 19 So the Lord God formed from the ground all the wild animals and all the birds of the sky. He brou …

Big Idea: “Think WE not ME”   Nehemiah 3 (Various verses) 3 Then Eliashib the high priest and the other priests started to rebuild at the Sheep Gate. They dedicated it and set up its doors, building the wall as far as the Tower of the Hundred, which they dedicated, and the Tower of Hananel. 2 P …

Proverbs 29:18 (KJV) Where there is no vision, the people perish;           [1] A “Compelling Vision” Often Begins When … A Concern Captures Our Heart!           Nehemiah 1:1-4 (MSG) The memoirs of Nehemiah son of Hacaliah.          It was the month …

  Joshua 14:10-11 (TLB) I am eighty-five years old. 11 I am as strong now as I was when Moses sent us on that journey, and I can still travel and fight as well as I could then!       #1 – To live an “unstoppable life”, like Caleb, we need to be – Godly Optimists!     …

  Matthew 25:14-18 (NLT) The Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a man going on a long trip. He called together his servants and entrusted his money to them while he was gone.15 He gave five bags of silver to one, two bags of silver to another, and one bag of silver to the last …

Ephesians 2:19 LB -“You are a member of God’s very own family and YOU BELONG in God’s Household with every other Christian.”       Big Idea: “A planted life is a flourishing life”       Psalm 92:12- “The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a ce …

Deuteronomy 1:6 (MSG) (God says) — “You’ve stayed long enough at this mountain. On your way now. Get moving …. I’ve given you this land. Now go in and take it.”       Going Step #1: Follow God’s Lead!       Joshua 3:3 (NIV) When you see the ark of the covenant of the L …

BIG IDEA: “Your faith and friendship can be the turning point in someone else’s story!”     A faith building friend is…     1. A “turn your concern into action” friend.     1 Thessalonians 3:1-2 (A-NLT) “Finally, when we could stand it no longer, we decided to stay alon …

Deuteronomy 32:11-12 (GW) Like an eagle that stirs up its nest, hovers over its young, spreads its wings to catch them, and carries them on its feathers, 12 so the LORD alone led his people.   Step #1: God stirs us to take godly risks!   Judges 13:25 (NLT) And the Spirit of the Lord began …

1 Peter 2:9-10 (NLT)         For you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.             10 “Once you had no identity as a               …

Ephesians 4:14-15 (MSG) No prolonged infancies among us, please …15 God wants us to grow up … like Christ in everything.   Growing Choice #1: To grow, my old ways need to go!     Ephesians 4:21-22 (NLT) Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, …

Mark 4:35 (GW) Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side.”   Mark 5:1-8 (GW) They arrived in the territory of the Gerasenes on the other side of the Sea of Galilee. 2 As Jesus stepped out of the boat, a man came out of the tombs and met him. The man was controlled by an evil s …

Moms are measuring the wrong things.    Question #1:  How big is God in my life?    Job 5:8-11 (NKJV) But as for me, I would seek God, and to God I would commit my cause – who does great things, and unsearchable, marvelous things without number.  He gives rain on the earth, and sends water …

Genesis 1:26-31 (NLT) God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, to be like ourselves. They will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals on the earth, and the small animals that scurry along the ground.” 27 So God created human beings in his o …

[1] Our feelings of inadequacy are often a focus-issue!   We sometimes feel inadequate because we’re failure-focused!   Exodus 3:9,10 (TLB) “(God said) “The wail of the people of Israel has risen to me in heaven, and I have seen the heavy tasks the Egyptians have oppressed them with. Now I …

Ephesians 1:11 (MSG) It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living,   John 1:12-13 (NLT) To all who believed him (Jesus) and accepted him, he gave the …

1 Corinthians 10:13 (MSG) No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he’ll never let you be pushed past your limit; he’ll always be there to help you come through it (“to provide you wi …

Luke 19:10 (NLT) For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.   John 4:3-7 (NLT) So he (Jesus) left Judea and returned to Galilee. 4 He had to go through Samaria on the way. 5 Eventually he came to the Samaritan village of Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph …

[1]    Living Secret-Free Requires Knowing Our – Secret-Carrying Type!   Rebuilding Your Broken World – Gordon McDonald   Some people carry secrets from their past!   Psalm 32:3-4 (MGS) When I kept it all inside, my bones turned to powder, my words became daylong groans. 4 The pressur …

[1] When desperate for a miracle, know that — Jesus is always approachable, to anyone at any time!   John 6:37 (GW) I will never turn away anyone who comes to me.   [2] When desperate for a miracle, we must – Do what we can and surrender what we can’t!   If you want God to do the sup …

 [1] When navigating uncertainties, know that – God’s nature is to GUIDE!   Isaiah 30:21 (NIV) — Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”   Psalm 32:8 (NIV) I will instruct you and teach you in the way you …

Song of Solomon 1:15-16 (NIV) “How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how beautiful! How handsome you are, my beloved! Oh, how charming!”   Domestic Tranquility: Your spouse needs a peaceful haven.   Domestic tranquility happens when complaining isn’t tolerated.   Numbers 14:26-30 NIV …

Mark 9:33-34 (NIV) 33 They came to Capernaum… When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” 34 But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest.   Luke 22:24 (AMP) 24 Now a dispute also arose among them as to which of them …

Success Clue #1 – REPITITION Is A Key to Big Dream Success!   1 Samuel 7:15-16 (MSG) — Samuel gave solid leadership to Israel his entire life. 16 Every year he went on a circuit from Bethel to Gilgal to Mizpah. He gave leadership to Israel in each of these places.   We need to develop and …

Developmental Test #4 – Handling SETBACKS!   When setbacks happen – we need to keep BELIEVING in God!   Genesis 39:2,3 Genesis 39:21-23 Romans 8:28   When setbacks happen – we need to keep SERVING for God!   Genesis 39:22-23 (TLB) The jailer soon handed over the entire prison adm …

Psalm 105:19 (NLT) Until the time came to fulfill his dreams, the LORD tested Joseph’s character.   Genesis 22:1 (GW) Later God tested Abraham and called to him, “Abraham!” “Yes, here I am!” he answered.   Deuteronomy 8:2 (NLT) Remember how the LORD your God led you through the wilderness …

[1] Great Wins Don’t Happen Without … Great STARTS!   Zechariah 4:10 (NLT) Do not despise … small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin,   [2] Great Wins Don’t Happen Without … Great EFFORT!   1 Corinthians 9:25-27 (MSG) All good athletes train hard. They do it for a …

Deuteronomy 7:22 (NLT) The LORD your God will drive those nations out ahead of you little by little. You will not clear them away all at once, otherwise the wild animals would multiply too quickly for you.   Exodus 23:29-30 (NLT) I will not drive them out in a single year, because the land woul …

[1] Preparing for a “Great New Year” begins withMOVING ON from the old one!   Philippians 3:13-14 (NLT) No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on to reach the end of the race an …

Big Idea: “Your story is never too broken for God”   Jeremiah 29:11 — “For I know the plans I have for you”, declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you HOPE and a FUTURE.”   LIFE HAPPENS AND EVERYTHING CHANGES… JOSEPH RUTH JOB DAVID   What do you …

[1] To Overcome Affluenza We Need Healthy Financial ATTITUDES!   1 Timothy 6:10 (NLT) For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.   Ecclesiastes 10:19 (GW) A meal is made for laughter, and wine makes life pleasant, but money is the answer for everything.   #1 — Money is a …

Step #1: We need to regularly assess our relationships!   VRP’s are “Very Resourcing People” that ignite our passion!   VSP’s are “Very Similar People” that share our passion!   VTP’s are “Very Teachable People” that receive our passion!   2 Timothy 2:2 (MSG) — Pass on what you heard …

  1 Kings 19:1-5 (MSG) Ahab reported to Jezebel everything that Elijah had done, including the massacre of the prophets.2 Jezebel immediately sent a messenger to Elijah with her threat: “The gods will get you for this and I’ll get even with you! By this time tomorrow you’ll be as dead as any on …

[1] To “Create Space” We Need To Acknowledge Our LIMITS!   Psalm 119:96 (TEV) — I have learned that everything has limits;   Job 14:5 (NCV) — Our time is limited. You (God) have given us only so many months to live and have set limits we cannot go beyond.     [2] To “Create Spa …

Ecclesiastes 9:10 Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.   [1] David had hands to touch the future by what he did today!   [2] David had hands of sacrifice!   [3] David had hands of action!   “What’s In Your Hand?”

Matthew 5:13-16   [1] We need to be a core-values believer, and voter!   Core-value #1 — Value LOVE!   Matthew 22:36-40   Core-value #2 — Value LIFE!   Psalm 139:13-16 (MSG) Oh yes, God, you shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother’s womb. 14 I thank yo …

Romans 12:2 (NLT) Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is.   [1] A World-Changing World-View …

Part 1: Spiritual Change Agents!   [1]  This election season (and every season) we need to make praying our  Priority!   1 Timothy 2:1-4 (NLT) — I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. 2 Pray this way for …

WWJD? What would Jesus do?   Philippians 2   Phil 2:1-4 MSG 1-4 If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agr …

Confidence Lesson #1 – When God is my shepherd, I can face Life confidently!   Psalm 23:1 (NLT2) The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need.   My Good Shepherd… knows me!   John 10:14 (NIV) “(Jesus said) — I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep…   My Good Shepherd… pro …

[1] The backstory of Psalm 51 helps us understand — why we fail and mess up!   Psalm 51 (NLT) For the choir director: A psalm of David, regarding the time Nathan the prophet came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba.   “Why” Reason #1 — Losing God’s vision for our lif …

Psalm 46:10 (NLT) “Be still, and know that I am God!”   Selah Moment #1: To relax, we need to know that God will Help us!   Psalm 46:1-3 (GW) God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. 2 That is why we are not afraid even when the earth quakes or the mountain …

Lesson #1: When your hopes and dreams are “on hold”, Vent up! Psalm 13:1-2 (NIV) How long, LORD? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? 2 How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me? David w …

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Big Idea: “God’s got this…and you will get through it!”   Psalm 34:4-10 NLT 3 things God has for you… God’s got… [1] The answer you need!   Psalm 34:4 & 6 NLT- 4“I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all of my fears.” 6“In my desperation I prayed, and the Lord list …

Big Idea: “We may not be able to change the situation we’re in, but we can change the way we talk about it”   Psalm 34:1-3 NLT 1 I will praise the Lord at all times.     I will constantly speak his praises. 2 I will boast only in the Lord;     let all who are helpless take heart. 3 Come, let us …

  Psalm 1:1-6 (NLT) Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. 2 But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. 3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. T …

[1] Feelings of loneliness are universal!   Psalm 102:7 (GW) I am like a lonely bird on a rooftop.   2 Timothy 4:9,10,16 (NLT) Timothy, please come as soon as you can. 10 Demas has deserted me … 16 The first time I was brought before the judge, no one came with me. Everyone abandoned me. …

Hebrews 12:15 (NLT) Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many.   [1] Roots of bitterness are toxic to us and those around us!   Bitterness is toxic to relationships!   Bitterness is toxic to our physical health!   Bitterness is toxic …

James 5:7-11 (NIV) Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. 8 You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. 9 Don’t grumble against on …

“Increased Vulnerability + Decreased Power = Increased Worry!” – Dr. Edward Hallowell   1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV) … God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted/tested beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted/tested, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure/overcome it …