FCC Grayson Sermons http://www.fccgrayson.com/ FCC Grayson fccgrayson@gmail.com FCC Grayson Your Story Isn't Over Yet; Hope Starts Here Welcome to the sermon podcast of First Church of Christ in Grayson KY. Each week, you will hear powerful, Christ-centered messages from our Sunday services. Messages that are rooted in Scripture, relevant to everyday life, and filled with hope. Whether you missed a service or just want to revisit a message, this is the place to stay connected and encouraged as we follow Jesus together. Your Story Isn't Over Yet; Hope Starts Here Welcome to the sermon podcast of First Church of Christ in Grayson KY. Each week, you will hear powerful, Christ-centered messages from our Sunday services. Messages that are rooted in Scripture, relevant to everyday life, and filled with hope. Whether you missed a service or just want to revisit a message, this is the place to stay connected and encouraged as we follow Jesus together. en © 2026 FCC Grayson no Stephen's Story - Week 12 Ben James <p>We all live with a gap, the space between who we say we are in Christ and how we actually live. In Acts 5, that gap is exposed. In Acts 7, Stephen shows us what it looks like to close it.</p> <p>We all live with a gap, the space between who we say we are in Christ and how we actually live. In Acts 5, that gap is exposed. In Acts 7, Stephen shows us what it looks like to close it.</p> We all live with a gap, the space between who we say we are in Christ and how we actually live. In Acts 5, that gap is exposed. In Acts 7, Stephen shows us what it looks like to close it.

]]> Sun, 24 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2084 1 ecb4630ed97539c87928a54c71a54694 no Dangerously Distracted - Week 11 Ben James <p>In this sermon from Acts 6:1–7, we look at a turning point in the early church where the enemy changes tactics: from external persecution to internal distraction and division. As Greek-speaking and Hebrew-speaking believers clash over neglected widows, we see a very real, very human church that suddenly isn’t “perfect” anymore, and we learn why that’s actually good news for us.</p> <p>In this sermon from Acts 6:1–7, we look at a turning point in the early church where the enemy changes tactics: from external persecution to internal distraction and division. As Greek-speaking and Hebrew-speaking believers clash over neglected widows, we see a very real, very human church that suddenly isn’t “perfect” anymore, and we learn why that’s actually good news for us.</p> In this sermon from Acts 6:1–7, we look at a turning point in the early church where the enemy changes tactics: from external persecution to internal distraction and division. As Greek-speaking and Hebrew-speaking believers clash over neglected widows, we see a very real, very human church that suddenly isn’t “perfect” anymore, and we learn why that’s actually good news for us.

]]> Sun, 17 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1863 2 df8b9e440f01e2ad7897ba74645fe9d3 no Faithful in Troubles - Week 10 Ben James <p>The early church viewed persecution as a mark of faithfulness. Today, have we compromised for comfort? We must obey God rather than man. When we're truly faithful to Christ, opposition will come, but God's purposes cannot be stopped.</p> <p>The early church viewed persecution as a mark of faithfulness. Today, have we compromised for comfort? We must obey God rather than man. When we're truly faithful to Christ, opposition will come, but God's purposes cannot be stopped.</p> The early church viewed persecution as a mark of faithfulness. Today, have we compromised for comfort? We must obey God rather than man. When we're truly faithful to Christ, opposition will come, but God's purposes cannot be stopped.

]]> Sun, 10 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2115 3 c9906e6b1640d27a807d0e9cbafb47a4 no Honestly Generous - Week 9 Ben James <p>Generosity thrives when distance dies. The early church had one heart, one soul, nothing hidden. We want to look surrendered without being surrendered. But God wants your honesty more than your money. Close the gap between who you are and who you appear to be. Be real.</p> <p>Generosity thrives when distance dies. The early church had one heart, one soul, nothing hidden. We want to look surrendered without being surrendered. But God wants your honesty more than your money. Close the gap between who you are and who you appear to be. Be real.</p> Generosity thrives when distance dies. The early church had one heart, one soul, nothing hidden. We want to look surrendered without being surrendered. But God wants your honesty more than your money. Close the gap between who you are and who you appear to be. Be real.

]]> Sun, 03 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2044 4 0fab0f458bb88173f6b650ea00b49d99 no The Choice Vine - Week 3 Ben James <p>God didn’t just clear your life... He planted something in you. </p><p>In this message, we explore what it means to have Christ, the True Vine, living within us.</p><p>If the seed is perfect, why do we still produce “wild fruit”? </p><p>This sermon challenges us to stop striving and start abiding, because real transformation comes from yielding to the life of Christ already in us.</p><p>Stop settling. Stay connected. Let it grow.</p> <p>God didn’t just clear your life... He planted something in you. </p><p>In this message, we explore what it means to have Christ, the True Vine, living within us.</p><p>If the seed is perfect, why do we still produce “wild fruit”? </p><p>This sermon challenges us to stop striving and start abiding, because real transformation comes from yielding to the life of Christ already in us.</p><p>Stop settling. Stay connected. Let it grow.</p> God didn’t just clear your life... He planted something in you.

In this message, we explore what it means to have Christ, the True Vine, living within us.

If the seed is perfect, why do we still produce “wild fruit”?

This sermon challenges us to stop striving and start abiding, because real transformation comes from yielding to the life of Christ already in us.

Stop settling. Stay connected. Let it grow.

]]> Sun, 19 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1730 5 ee2f2513e6b8dbfbbf575eb218b9dc9b no The Emptiness of Easter Ben James <p>Emptiness is not a positive concept, or word for us, in many areas of our lives. However, on this Resurrection Sunday, we search the scriptures and see that the Empty tomb is the greatest news in all of history.</p> <p>Emptiness is not a positive concept, or word for us, in many areas of our lives. However, on this Resurrection Sunday, we search the scriptures and see that the Empty tomb is the greatest news in all of history.</p> Emptiness is not a positive concept, or word for us, in many areas of our lives. However, on this Resurrection Sunday, we search the scriptures and see that the Empty tomb is the greatest news in all of history.

]]> Sun, 05 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1459 6 183670904e0c6d72514c32baf8de4203 no Casting Cloaks - Palm Sunday Ben James <p>Luke records a detail about the triumphal entry of Jesus that is different than the other 3 Gospel writers. Instead of recording the detail of the Palm Branches, he introduces another item. While different, it is just as meaningful... then & now.</p> <p>Luke records a detail about the triumphal entry of Jesus that is different than the other 3 Gospel writers. Instead of recording the detail of the Palm Branches, he introduces another item. While different, it is just as meaningful... then & now.</p> Luke records a detail about the triumphal entry of Jesus that is different than the other 3 Gospel writers. Instead of recording the detail of the Palm Branches, he introduces another item. While different, it is just as meaningful... then & now.

]]> Sun, 29 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1649 7 fd1c9ff07e8a9bb1b0df9d31b411625f no Boldly Double-Down - Week 8 Ben James <p>Under the highest pressure yet, Peter and John continue to speak the name of Jesus & show us what it really looks like to Boldly Down-Down on the message of the Gospel.</p> <p>Under the highest pressure yet, Peter and John continue to speak the name of Jesus & show us what it really looks like to Boldly Down-Down on the message of the Gospel.</p> Under the highest pressure yet, Peter and John continue to speak the name of Jesus & show us what it really looks like to Boldly Down-Down on the message of the Gospel.

]]> Sun, 22 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1816 8 405b466bcfe69aa3627c3157537e87d2 no Walk the Talk - Week 7 Ben James <p>The first "normal" day that we see recorded after Pentecost shows us the importance of seeing the hurting and broken all around us.</p> <p>The first "normal" day that we see recorded after Pentecost shows us the importance of seeing the hurting and broken all around us.</p> The first "normal" day that we see recorded after Pentecost shows us the importance of seeing the hurting and broken all around us.

]]> Sun, 15 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1783 9 87cd7f1d569d986f40a9f3ffb5f93599 no Church Elements - Week 6 Ben James <p>In a world fractured by class, politics, ethnicity, and religious tension, the early church didn't just attend services.. they became a people</p> <p>In a world fractured by class, politics, ethnicity, and religious tension, the early church didn't just attend services.. they became a people</p> In a world fractured by class, politics, ethnicity, and religious tension, the early church didn't just attend services.. they became a people

]]> Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1444 10 54d635466171299febb67746fa270db4 no Boldly Sharing - Week 5 Ben James <p>In Acts 2:14-41 we read Peter's sermon which resulted in over 3,000 people being saved. In this message, we frame what it means to be biblically bold by examining the elements of this message.</p> <p>In Acts 2:14-41 we read Peter's sermon which resulted in over 3,000 people being saved. In this message, we frame what it means to be biblically bold by examining the elements of this message.</p> In Acts 2:14-41 we read Peter's sermon which resulted in over 3,000 people being saved. In this message, we frame what it means to be biblically bold by examining the elements of this message.

]]> Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1791 11 3554490aa6f7d5086a1345edfcb4b441 no Be My Witnesses - Week 3 Acts 1:9-14 Ben James <p>We are living in an age where the church is not persecuted. We are distracted. We are being entertained to death. We are, in so many ways, the most resourced Christians who have ever lived: Bible translations, sermon libraries, worship music, Bible Apps, Podcasts, etc. And yet, for most of us, prayer is not a lifestyle, it is an emergency button.</p> <p>We are living in an age where the church is not persecuted. We are distracted. We are being entertained to death. We are, in so many ways, the most resourced Christians who have ever lived: Bible translations, sermon libraries, worship music, Bible Apps, Podcasts, etc. And yet, for most of us, prayer is not a lifestyle, it is an emergency button.</p> We are living in an age where the church is not persecuted. We are distracted. We are being entertained to death. We are, in so many ways, the most resourced Christians who have ever lived: Bible translations, sermon libraries, worship music, Bible Apps, Podcasts, etc. And yet, for most of us, prayer is not a lifestyle, it is an emergency button.

]]> Sun, 15 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1880 12 3a53302ecc0a66e5082839331333bfa8 no Promise of the Father - Week 2 Ben James <p>Before the church could move in mission, Jesus commanded His disciples to wait for the Father’s promise. In this message, we explore how the Holy Spirit is not just God’s presence with us, but His power in us, equipping ordinary believers to live boldly and witness faithfully.</p> <p>Before the church could move in mission, Jesus commanded His disciples to wait for the Father’s promise. In this message, we explore how the Holy Spirit is not just God’s presence with us, but His power in us, equipping ordinary believers to live boldly and witness faithfully.</p> Before the church could move in mission, Jesus commanded His disciples to wait for the Father’s promise. In this message, we explore how the Holy Spirit is not just God’s presence with us, but His power in us, equipping ordinary believers to live boldly and witness faithfully.

]]> Sun, 08 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1711 13 661872812b5798dc3f703fb71946b12c no Living Legacy - Week 1 Acts 2026 Ben James <p>In the book of Acts we will see bold faith & foolish decisions. Unity & conflict. Miracles & martyrdom. This should encourage us, because Acts does not show us a perfect church; it shows us a Spirit-filled one.</p> <p>In the book of Acts we will see bold faith & foolish decisions. Unity & conflict. Miracles & martyrdom. This should encourage us, because Acts does not show us a perfect church; it shows us a Spirit-filled one.</p> In the book of Acts we will see bold faith & foolish decisions. Unity & conflict. Miracles & martyrdom. This should encourage us, because Acts does not show us a perfect church; it shows us a Spirit-filled one.

]]> Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1820 14 b5ab75097d317dc1c5d38fff8e7c2365 no What Has Your Heart? - Week 2 Above All Else Ben James <p>The Glory of God demands not just our desires but our treasure, devotion & loyalty.</p> <p>The Glory of God demands not just our desires but our treasure, devotion & loyalty.</p> The Glory of God demands not just our desires but our treasure, devotion & loyalty.

]]> Sun, 11 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1386 15 180ca3ba4b6778bdc32c4fa65ffc329f no What Do You Want Most? Ben James <p>What do you want most in the world?</p><p>You don’t need a crisis to answer it, you just need time. Because what you want most shows up in what you worry about, what disappoints you, and what you’re tempted to protect at all costs</p> <p>What do you want most in the world?</p><p>You don’t need a crisis to answer it, you just need time. Because what you want most shows up in what you worry about, what disappoints you, and what you’re tempted to protect at all costs</p> What do you want most in the world?

You don’t need a crisis to answer it, you just need time. Because what you want most shows up in what you worry about, what disappoints you, and what you’re tempted to protect at all costs

]]> Sun, 04 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1824 16 825ea31ddfe34dcf493c9e0a023611c4 no The Promise in the Prophets Ben James <p>If we’re honest, sometimes the lights and music don’t heal the ache; they highlight it. Yet, Scripture never pretends pain doesn’t exist. And, Christmas, more than any other season, proves that God enters it.</p> <p>If we’re honest, sometimes the lights and music don’t heal the ache; they highlight it. Yet, Scripture never pretends pain doesn’t exist. And, Christmas, more than any other season, proves that God enters it.</p> If we’re honest, sometimes the lights and music don’t heal the ache; they highlight it. Yet, Scripture never pretends pain doesn’t exist. And, Christmas, more than any other season, proves that God enters it.

]]> Sun, 28 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1743 17 29507a0ff97fb9c14bc71818a6b3a65f no The Promise Through David Ben James <p>God speaks to David and does something remarkable, He anchors His promise to a kingdom. And as we’ll see, this is not just about David, not just about Israel, but about a King whose reign would extend beyond time itself.</p><p>So let’s lean in together as we listen to God’s Word and allow our hearts to be re-centered around this truth: Jesus is our Forever King.</p> <p>God speaks to David and does something remarkable, He anchors His promise to a kingdom. And as we’ll see, this is not just about David, not just about Israel, but about a King whose reign would extend beyond time itself.</p><p>So let’s lean in together as we listen to God’s Word and allow our hearts to be re-centered around this truth: Jesus is our Forever King.</p> God speaks to David and does something remarkable, He anchors His promise to a kingdom. And as we’ll see, this is not just about David, not just about Israel, but about a King whose reign would extend beyond time itself.

So let’s lean in together as we listen to God’s Word and allow our hearts to be re-centered around this truth: Jesus is our Forever King.

]]> Sun, 21 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1866 18 5309c56dc76bde3b48809b61d2fe1854 no The Promise to Abraham Ben James <p>God’s blessing was never meant to terminate with Abraham, it was designed to travel through him to the ends of the earth, and that blessing is fully realized in Jesus Christ.</p> <p>God’s blessing was never meant to terminate with Abraham, it was designed to travel through him to the ends of the earth, and that blessing is fully realized in Jesus Christ.</p> God’s blessing was never meant to terminate with Abraham, it was designed to travel through him to the ends of the earth, and that blessing is fully realized in Jesus Christ.

]]> Sun, 14 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1479 19 dcc5497d6aa4d8512dcac00c0e25ebe2 no The Promise in Eden Ben James <p>When darkness came upon on mankind, God responded with the first Christmas message of Genesis 3:15.</p> <p>When darkness came upon on mankind, God responded with the first Christmas message of Genesis 3:15.</p> When darkness came upon on mankind, God responded with the first Christmas message of Genesis 3:15.

]]> Sun, 07 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1654 20 6b756895094ba185b5e9f327979ccf9b no Holiness - Week 8 Simple. Ben James <p>Biblical holiness isn't about climbing up to God through performance—it's about allowing His Spirit to transform you from the inside out. It's not God saying "try harder," but God inviting you to "come closer." Freedom begins when we stop striving and start surrendering.</p> <p>Biblical holiness isn't about climbing up to God through performance—it's about allowing His Spirit to transform you from the inside out. It's not God saying "try harder," but God inviting you to "come closer." Freedom begins when we stop striving and start surrendering.</p> Biblical holiness isn't about climbing up to God through performance—it's about allowing His Spirit to transform you from the inside out. It's not God saying "try harder," but God inviting you to "come closer." Freedom begins when we stop striving and start surrendering.

]]> Sun, 23 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1628 21 d7554ed0fbabc88c1fa163537af279d7 no Today - Week 7 Ben James <p>Oftentimes our worry about controlling tomorrow will sabotage our today. Let's learn from Scripture what we are instructed to do with our Today.</p> <p>Oftentimes our worry about controlling tomorrow will sabotage our today. Let's learn from Scripture what we are instructed to do with our Today.</p> Oftentimes our worry about controlling tomorrow will sabotage our today. Let's learn from Scripture what we are instructed to do with our Today.

]]> Sun, 16 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1439 22 1bd18c693347eac4ed71226b111ad287 no Church - Week 6 Ben James <p>A look at the early church and how we have overcomplicated church and what it means in our lives.</p> <p>A look at the early church and how we have overcomplicated church and what it means in our lives.</p> A look at the early church and how we have overcomplicated church and what it means in our lives.

]]> Sun, 09 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1737 23 edbec5469dc58dab1b6d0fb6947c5605 no Humility - Week 5 Thomas McClure <p>Simply & Humbly approach our walk with God.</p> <p>Simply & Humbly approach our walk with God.</p> Simply & Humbly approach our walk with God.

]]> Sun, 02 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1788 24 845500fda0d2ca2eaf65eba261ffd9c9 no Effort - Week 3 <p>Homecoming Sunday at FCC with guest speaker, Phil LeMaster.</p> <p>Homecoming Sunday at FCC with guest speaker, Phil LeMaster.</p> Homecoming Sunday at FCC with guest speaker, Phil LeMaster.

]]> Sun, 19 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2391 25 9b054ef4181d231e2c32adccdb06d533 no Prayer - Week 2 Ben James <p>Prayer was never meant to be complicated. Somewhere along the way, we made it about performance. The right words, the right timing, right image; but Jesus never asked for that. He simply instructs, "When you pray, talk to the Father."</p> <p>Prayer was never meant to be complicated. Somewhere along the way, we made it about performance. The right words, the right timing, right image; but Jesus never asked for that. He simply instructs, "When you pray, talk to the Father."</p> Prayer was never meant to be complicated. Somewhere along the way, we made it about performance. The right words, the right timing, right image; but Jesus never asked for that. He simply instructs, "When you pray, talk to the Father."

]]> Sun, 12 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 3052 26 ad4e05a101425d08db858ae767fdfcb5 no Trust - Week 1 Ben James <p>Somewhere along the way, we’ve taken what God made clear and turned it into something complicated. We pile on rules, expectations, pressure, and noise until faith feels more like a burden than a gift.</p><p>But the Bible paints a different picture. Faith was never meant to be frantic. Trust was never meant to be complicated.</p><p>Jeremiah 17:7–8 says: “Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord… they are like a tree planted by the water.”</p><p>That’s it. Trust. Rootedness. Life that flows from God, not life drained by us trying to force it.</p> <p>Somewhere along the way, we’ve taken what God made clear and turned it into something complicated. We pile on rules, expectations, pressure, and noise until faith feels more like a burden than a gift.</p><p>But the Bible paints a different picture. Faith was never meant to be frantic. Trust was never meant to be complicated.</p><p>Jeremiah 17:7–8 says: “Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord… they are like a tree planted by the water.”</p><p>That’s it. Trust. Rootedness. Life that flows from God, not life drained by us trying to force it.</p> Somewhere along the way, we’ve taken what God made clear and turned it into something complicated. We pile on rules, expectations, pressure, and noise until faith feels more like a burden than a gift.

But the Bible paints a different picture. Faith was never meant to be frantic. Trust was never meant to be complicated.

Jeremiah 17:7–8 says: “Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord… they are like a tree planted by the water.”

That’s it. Trust. Rootedness. Life that flows from God, not life drained by us trying to force it.

]]> Sun, 05 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1439 27 343bf543734c8effb775af28caf3a47f no Designed for Joy - Week 21 Ben James <p>In this message we delve into the profound truth that joy is not a mere luxury but a divine design for every believer. Despite cynicism and fear that the world tries to impose, God calls us to rejoice always.</p> <p>In this message we delve into the profound truth that joy is not a mere luxury but a divine design for every believer. Despite cynicism and fear that the world tries to impose, God calls us to rejoice always.</p> In this message we delve into the profound truth that joy is not a mere luxury but a divine design for every believer. Despite cynicism and fear that the world tries to impose, God calls us to rejoice always.

]]> Sun, 21 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1440 28 824b7fde7da0788ef3c53af19edad842 no Refresh - Encourage - Hope: Week 20 Ben James Sun, 14 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1999 29 e3cda8a1cdab5fc06df7052e2db3c449 no Walk Uprightly - Week 18 Proverbs: Navigating Life Ben James Sun, 24 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1700 30 f24789dfbaff8afff06045cdf2e6a22a no Friends - Week 16 Proverbs: Navigating Life Ben James <p><br></p> <p><br></p>

]]> Sun, 17 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1996 31 102a5c33b837d4e3ea78180d7e136151 no Justice & Mercy - Week 17 Proverbs: Navigating Life Ben James Sun, 17 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1815 32 204221013e06e04e4066a8ceee6466c5 no Powerful & Effective Waymaker Ben James <p>The Power of Righteous Prayers – When we walk in obedience and align our hearts with God, His righteousness flows in our lives, and our prayers carry great authority and impact.</p> <p>The Power of Righteous Prayers – When we walk in obedience and align our hearts with God, His righteousness flows in our lives, and our prayers carry great authority and impact.</p> The Power of Righteous Prayers – When we walk in obedience and align our hearts with God, His righteousness flows in our lives, and our prayers carry great authority and impact.

]]> Sun, 20 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1934 33 b0cfbf92e94f1a1bd71015a55276fc37 no No Shelf-Life WAYMAKER Ben James <p>The prayers we pray today are not bound by time. God hears and remembers them, often answering in ways and at times we don’t expect. Some prayers are answered immediately, while others unfold in His divine timing.</p> <p>The prayers we pray today are not bound by time. God hears and remembers them, often answering in ways and at times we don’t expect. Some prayers are answered immediately, while others unfold in His divine timing.</p> The prayers we pray today are not bound by time. God hears and remembers them, often answering in ways and at times we don’t expect. Some prayers are answered immediately, while others unfold in His divine timing.

]]> Sun, 13 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1852 34 403a6474c0960c1d2b871f5a04e9b5c7 no No Blueprint for God - Week 2 Waymaker Series Ben James <p>While we are given many examples in scripture of how to pray, we are quickly reminded that there are no formulas nor blueprints for God's plan.</p> <p>While we are given many examples in scripture of how to pray, we are quickly reminded that there are no formulas nor blueprints for God's plan.</p> While we are given many examples in scripture of how to pray, we are quickly reminded that there are no formulas nor blueprints for God's plan.

]]> Sun, 06 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1807 35 6cdc531ab00856940ffcea6413d62ca5 no Ask - Seek - Knock Waymaker Series Ben James <p>What if prayer wasn’t just something we do - but a direct connection to the One who makes a way when there seems to be no way?</p> <p>What if prayer wasn’t just something we do - but a direct connection to the One who makes a way when there seems to be no way?</p> What if prayer wasn’t just something we do - but a direct connection to the One who makes a way when there seems to be no way?

]]> Sun, 29 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1688 36 bde880e79b494363803bff350861527a no Self-Control - Week 15 Proverbs: Navigating Life Ben James <p>When we don’t have self-control, it doesn’t match who we are in Jesus. He wants us to fully trust and follow Him so His Spirit can grow self-control in our lives.</p> <p>When we don’t have self-control, it doesn’t match who we are in Jesus. He wants us to fully trust and follow Him so His Spirit can grow self-control in our lives.</p> When we don’t have self-control, it doesn’t match who we are in Jesus. He wants us to fully trust and follow Him so His Spirit can grow self-control in our lives.

]]> Sun, 22 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1922 37 3372f4b31f1efac0b4705b5449978f7c no Fan the Fire - Week 14 Proverbs: Navigating Life Ben James <p>Revival is a fire God starts — but He calls us to keep it burning.</p><p>God lights the spark, but it’s our obedience, humility, and pursuit of Him that become the fuel.</p><p>The Holy Spirit is the spark. But our daily surrender, prayer, worship, and repentance are the fuel. God may light a fire in a moment, but He wants disciples, not just spectators, to tend it.</p> <p>Revival is a fire God starts — but He calls us to keep it burning.</p><p>God lights the spark, but it’s our obedience, humility, and pursuit of Him that become the fuel.</p><p>The Holy Spirit is the spark. But our daily surrender, prayer, worship, and repentance are the fuel. God may light a fire in a moment, but He wants disciples, not just spectators, to tend it.</p> Revival is a fire God starts — but He calls us to keep it burning.

God lights the spark, but it’s our obedience, humility, and pursuit of Him that become the fuel.

The Holy Spirit is the spark. But our daily surrender, prayer, worship, and repentance are the fuel. God may light a fire in a moment, but He wants disciples, not just spectators, to tend it.

]]> Sun, 15 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1392 38 e5c4dbaa9dab081c97a02b3e930d00ee no Humility - Week 13 Proverbs: Navigating Life Ben James <p>It is in times of trial and difficulty that we are forced to actually exercise real faith. Times of trial can be like putting on a new pair of glasses: It’s not that the world just got clearer and crisper but that you are better able to see it for what it is. We are no less dependent on God in times of ease and prosperity, but we are so much more aware of having to entrust ourselves to our heavenly Father in times of hardship.</p> <p>It is in times of trial and difficulty that we are forced to actually exercise real faith. Times of trial can be like putting on a new pair of glasses: It’s not that the world just got clearer and crisper but that you are better able to see it for what it is. We are no less dependent on God in times of ease and prosperity, but we are so much more aware of having to entrust ourselves to our heavenly Father in times of hardship.</p> It is in times of trial and difficulty that we are forced to actually exercise real faith. Times of trial can be like putting on a new pair of glasses: It’s not that the world just got clearer and crisper but that you are better able to see it for what it is. We are no less dependent on God in times of ease and prosperity, but we are so much more aware of having to entrust ourselves to our heavenly Father in times of hardship.

]]> Sun, 08 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1435 39 ffdaaec7a4f746f207b2541bffa1e25b no Prayers of the Upright - Week 12 Proverbs: Navigating Life Ben James <p>We can learn through the teachings of Proverbs how to make sure our hearts are aligned uprightly, & continue to examine the motives of our hearts.</p> <p>We can learn through the teachings of Proverbs how to make sure our hearts are aligned uprightly, & continue to examine the motives of our hearts.</p> We can learn through the teachings of Proverbs how to make sure our hearts are aligned uprightly, & continue to examine the motives of our hearts.

]]> Sun, 01 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1674 40 db93f548e145603d49ef439511ed2577 no Chose Wisdom - Week 11 Proverbs: Navigating Life Ben James <p>Chapter 9 presents a vivid contrast between the paths of wisdom and folly, personifying them as women, where wisdom is depicted as a gracious hostess inviting people to a nourishing feast, while folly is portrayed as a seductive, ignorant woman leading to destruction; the chapter emphasizes the importance of choosing wisdom by embracing correction and fearing the Lord, as it leads to a fulfilling life - while rejecting folly results in ruin and death. </p> <p>Chapter 9 presents a vivid contrast between the paths of wisdom and folly, personifying them as women, where wisdom is depicted as a gracious hostess inviting people to a nourishing feast, while folly is portrayed as a seductive, ignorant woman leading to destruction; the chapter emphasizes the importance of choosing wisdom by embracing correction and fearing the Lord, as it leads to a fulfilling life - while rejecting folly results in ruin and death. </p> Chapter 9 presents a vivid contrast between the paths of wisdom and folly, personifying them as women, where wisdom is depicted as a gracious hostess inviting people to a nourishing feast, while folly is portrayed as a seductive, ignorant woman leading to destruction; the chapter emphasizes the importance of choosing wisdom by embracing correction and fearing the Lord, as it leads to a fulfilling life - while rejecting folly results in ruin and death. 

]]> Sun, 25 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1742 41 7484389c853cc650873e3a1ddf5e9414 no Points to Christ - Week 10 Proverbs - Navigating Life Ben James <p>Chapter 8 primarily emphasizes the value of wisdom, personified as a woman who actively calls out to people to seek her guidance, highlighting that wisdom is more precious than riches, is foundational to creation, and brings blessings to those who embrace it; it encourages listeners to prioritize wisdom above all else, as it leads to a righteous and fulfilling life.</p> <p>Chapter 8 primarily emphasizes the value of wisdom, personified as a woman who actively calls out to people to seek her guidance, highlighting that wisdom is more precious than riches, is foundational to creation, and brings blessings to those who embrace it; it encourages listeners to prioritize wisdom above all else, as it leads to a righteous and fulfilling life.</p> Chapter 8 primarily emphasizes the value of wisdom, personified as a woman who actively calls out to people to seek her guidance, highlighting that wisdom is more precious than riches, is foundational to creation, and brings blessings to those who embrace it; it encourages listeners to prioritize wisdom above all else, as it leads to a righteous and fulfilling life.

]]> Sun, 18 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1941 42 509f4aa9767d1b3594830db0112844e2 no Staying Free - Week 6 Baggage Ben James <p>Freedom is not a one-time event — it’s a lifestyle. In the final message of this series, we’ll explore how to maintain the freedom we’ve found and walk daily in the lightness of God’s grace.</p> <p>Freedom is not a one-time event — it’s a lifestyle. In the final message of this series, we’ll explore how to maintain the freedom we’ve found and walk daily in the lightness of God’s grace.</p> Freedom is not a one-time event — it’s a lifestyle. In the final message of this series, we’ll explore how to maintain the freedom we’ve found and walk daily in the lightness of God’s grace.

]]> Sun, 11 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1539 43 93e92bdda5c3370d8d1ddae42fa7dc69 no Freedom From More - Week 5 Baggage Ben James <p>Our culture teaches us to accumulate more, but possessions can quickly become a burden. This week, we’ll learn what the Bible instructs in releasing the grip of materialism and finding true contentment in God’s provision.</p> <p>Our culture teaches us to accumulate more, but possessions can quickly become a burden. This week, we’ll learn what the Bible instructs in releasing the grip of materialism and finding true contentment in God’s provision.</p> Our culture teaches us to accumulate more, but possessions can quickly become a burden. This week, we’ll learn what the Bible instructs in releasing the grip of materialism and finding true contentment in God’s provision.

]]> Sun, 04 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1847 44 11ae9ff9790258ee29728697b520f136 no Relational Baggage - Week 4 Baggage Ben James <p>Broken relationships, betrayal, and unmet expectations can create deep wounds. God invites us to let go of resentment, release bitterness, and find healing in Him. This week, we will explore how to forgive and build healthy relationships.</p> <p>Broken relationships, betrayal, and unmet expectations can create deep wounds. God invites us to let go of resentment, release bitterness, and find healing in Him. This week, we will explore how to forgive and build healthy relationships.</p> Broken relationships, betrayal, and unmet expectations can create deep wounds. God invites us to let go of resentment, release bitterness, and find healing in Him. This week, we will explore how to forgive and build healthy relationships.

]]> Sun, 27 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1518 45 dfb429e04c1809e8b5a211227d6532f5 no Baggage That Won't Let Go - Week 3 Baggage: Live Free - Travel Light Ben James <p>Some baggage seems impossible to put down. Maybe it’s a habit, an addiction, or a deep-seated fear. But God’s power is greater than any stronghold. This week, we’ll discover how to surrender even the heaviest baggage to the One who can carry it.</p> <p>Some baggage seems impossible to put down. Maybe it’s a habit, an addiction, or a deep-seated fear. But God’s power is greater than any stronghold. This week, we’ll discover how to surrender even the heaviest baggage to the One who can carry it.</p> Some baggage seems impossible to put down. Maybe it’s a habit, an addiction, or a deep-seated fear. But God’s power is greater than any stronghold. This week, we’ll discover how to surrender even the heaviest baggage to the One who can carry it.

]]> Sun, 20 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1477 46 1225cd357545ba12505f6435399eb23e no Freedom from Guilt - Week 2 Baggage: Live Free - Travel Light Ben James <p>Guilt is one of the heaviest bags we carry. It whispers that we’re not enough and reminds us of our failures. But through Christ’s forgiveness, we can leave guilt behind and walk in the freedom of grace and restoration.</p> <p>Guilt is one of the heaviest bags we carry. It whispers that we’re not enough and reminds us of our failures. But through Christ’s forgiveness, we can leave guilt behind and walk in the freedom of grace and restoration.</p> Guilt is one of the heaviest bags we carry. It whispers that we’re not enough and reminds us of our failures. But through Christ’s forgiveness, we can leave guilt behind and walk in the freedom of grace and restoration.

]]> Sun, 13 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1738 47 e6bda1b2c207b939b92b9a1038c4728b no Freedom From Baggage - Week 1 Baggage: Live Free - Travel Light Ben James <p>We all know what it’s like to carry baggage. We may not see it physically, but we feel it. The weight of shame from past mistakes, the burden of unresolved conflicts, the pressure of unrealistic expectations — these things weigh down our hearts and keep us from walking in the freedom that God desires for us.</p><p>But Psalm 34:4 gives us a powerful promise:</p><p>“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.”</p><p>God doesn’t want us to carry this baggage. He wants us to release it and experience the freedom that comes from living under His grace.</p> <p>We all know what it’s like to carry baggage. We may not see it physically, but we feel it. The weight of shame from past mistakes, the burden of unresolved conflicts, the pressure of unrealistic expectations — these things weigh down our hearts and keep us from walking in the freedom that God desires for us.</p><p>But Psalm 34:4 gives us a powerful promise:</p><p>“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.”</p><p>God doesn’t want us to carry this baggage. He wants us to release it and experience the freedom that comes from living under His grace.</p> We all know what it’s like to carry baggage. We may not see it physically, but we feel it. The weight of shame from past mistakes, the burden of unresolved conflicts, the pressure of unrealistic expectations — these things weigh down our hearts and keep us from walking in the freedom that God desires for us.

But Psalm 34:4 gives us a powerful promise:

“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.”

God doesn’t want us to carry this baggage. He wants us to release it and experience the freedom that comes from living under His grace.

]]> Sun, 06 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1656 48 411b7daf78c378ddde497d4337ef7b4d no Wisdom Warnings - Week 9 The Book of Proverbs Ben James <p>God created his world good and everything worked right, including our physical relationships. But sin broke our relationship with God and with each other, so nothing right now works as it was designed.</p> <p>God created his world good and everything worked right, including our physical relationships. But sin broke our relationship with God and with each other, so nothing right now works as it was designed.</p> God created his world good and everything worked right, including our physical relationships. But sin broke our relationship with God and with each other, so nothing right now works as it was designed.

]]> Sun, 30 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1734 49 39c8438e6b54d9e1b18ccd15a48fe453 no Encouragement vs Flattery The Book of Proverbs <p>One of the most frequent questions/takeaways from this Sunday's message has been regarding the difference between words of encouragement, and words of flattery.</p><p>This, short, devotional video digs deeper into this topic.</p> <p>One of the most frequent questions/takeaways from this Sunday's message has been regarding the difference between words of encouragement, and words of flattery.</p><p>This, short, devotional video digs deeper into this topic.</p> One of the most frequent questions/takeaways from this Sunday's message has been regarding the difference between words of encouragement, and words of flattery.

This, short, devotional video digs deeper into this topic.

]]> Thu, 27 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 141 50 632f3f0f3a5366f1635c7343babd61e3 no Diligence of Words - Week 8 The Book of Proverbs Ben James <p>“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words shall never harm me…” Such a catchy, quippy and totally untrue saying. Proverbs tells us repeatedly about the weight of our words; particularly when our words are dishonest.</p><p>In this passage, Solomon gives us the definition, the cause, the consequences and ultimately, how to overcome this ever-present, ever-dangerous area of temptation in our lives.</p> <p>“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words shall never harm me…” Such a catchy, quippy and totally untrue saying. Proverbs tells us repeatedly about the weight of our words; particularly when our words are dishonest.</p><p>In this passage, Solomon gives us the definition, the cause, the consequences and ultimately, how to overcome this ever-present, ever-dangerous area of temptation in our lives.</p> “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words shall never harm me…” Such a catchy, quippy and totally untrue saying. Proverbs tells us repeatedly about the weight of our words; particularly when our words are dishonest.

In this passage, Solomon gives us the definition, the cause, the consequences and ultimately, how to overcome this ever-present, ever-dangerous area of temptation in our lives.

]]> Sun, 23 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2204 51 d35b25dbe76a0a71b23defc70a3f76b5 no Peril of the Flesh - Week 7 The Book of Proverbs Ben James <p>One of the primary tactics of our enemy is to keep us distracted. He will often provide opportunities for us to take our eyes off of Jesus. He does so with various tactics.</p><p>Facing tough times is one of the main ways he works to shift our gaze from our Savior. It isn’t the only way, however. Desires of this world is also something that tends to pull us away from our relationship with Jesus. </p> <p>One of the primary tactics of our enemy is to keep us distracted. He will often provide opportunities for us to take our eyes off of Jesus. He does so with various tactics.</p><p>Facing tough times is one of the main ways he works to shift our gaze from our Savior. It isn’t the only way, however. Desires of this world is also something that tends to pull us away from our relationship with Jesus. </p> One of the primary tactics of our enemy is to keep us distracted. He will often provide opportunities for us to take our eyes off of Jesus. He does so with various tactics.

Facing tough times is one of the main ways he works to shift our gaze from our Savior. It isn’t the only way, however. Desires of this world is also something that tends to pull us away from our relationship with Jesus. 

]]> Sun, 16 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1992 52 da63dfaa35fe8f1378312da18863d5ad no Heart of Wisdom - Week 6 The Book of Proverbs Ben James <p>The purpose of Proverbs 4:20-27 is to call the reader to walk in wisdom. In this passage, Solomon describes how that is accomplished through four actions: guarding the heart, governing the mouth, fixing the eyes, and considering his choices.</p> <p>The purpose of Proverbs 4:20-27 is to call the reader to walk in wisdom. In this passage, Solomon describes how that is accomplished through four actions: guarding the heart, governing the mouth, fixing the eyes, and considering his choices.</p> The purpose of Proverbs 4:20-27 is to call the reader to walk in wisdom. In this passage, Solomon describes how that is accomplished through four actions: guarding the heart, governing the mouth, fixing the eyes, and considering his choices.

]]> Sun, 09 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1973 53 a5e77aa04988e85623d371f972afbe13 no Wisdom Builds Trust - Week 5 The Book of Proverbs Ben James <p>Wisdom—Jesus—is the treasure that is superior to all that we can set our hearts on. Solomon will tell us in Proverbs 3:13-35 to seek Wisdom first, above all else. When Solomon wrote these words he was encouraging his son to commit to study this book—Proverbs. But in the fullness of time, the Spirit has revealed to us that Wisdom is a person—Jesus Christ. We are to seek him—the pearl of great price—above all else, and all these other things will be provided for us (Matt 6:33). If we set our supreme desire on things—even good things—it will prove disappointing. It may even wreck our lives. But when we set our supreme desire on Jesus, we are able to enjoy these other things as gifts that cause our hearts to praise Jesus for providing them.</p> <p>Wisdom—Jesus—is the treasure that is superior to all that we can set our hearts on. Solomon will tell us in Proverbs 3:13-35 to seek Wisdom first, above all else. When Solomon wrote these words he was encouraging his son to commit to study this book—Proverbs. But in the fullness of time, the Spirit has revealed to us that Wisdom is a person—Jesus Christ. We are to seek him—the pearl of great price—above all else, and all these other things will be provided for us (Matt 6:33). If we set our supreme desire on things—even good things—it will prove disappointing. It may even wreck our lives. But when we set our supreme desire on Jesus, we are able to enjoy these other things as gifts that cause our hearts to praise Jesus for providing them.</p> Wisdom—Jesus—is the treasure that is superior to all that we can set our hearts on. Solomon will tell us in Proverbs 3:13-35 to seek Wisdom first, above all else. When Solomon wrote these words he was encouraging his son to commit to study this book—Proverbs. But in the fullness of time, the Spirit has revealed to us that Wisdom is a person—Jesus Christ. We are to seek him—the pearl of great price—above all else, and all these other things will be provided for us (Matt 6:33). If we set our supreme desire on things—even good things—it will prove disappointing. It may even wreck our lives. But when we set our supreme desire on Jesus, we are able to enjoy these other things as gifts that cause our hearts to praise Jesus for providing them.

]]> Sun, 02 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1902 54 23263b2040de04baed001669dc119fda no Get Wisdom - Week 4 The Book of Proverbs - Navigating Life Ben James <p>In life we are bombarded with all kinds of voices and messages. These are human voices. They might be a parent, a teacher, a coach, a coworker, a friend, or a commercial, but these human voices have spiritual voices and messages that stand behind them. There are godly messages, and there are evil messages. These messages instruct us, exhort us, warn us, and make promises to us. The questions we must ask are, Whose voice will I listen to? What message will I trust as good and helpful? What message will I reject as bad and harmful?</p> <p>In life we are bombarded with all kinds of voices and messages. These are human voices. They might be a parent, a teacher, a coach, a coworker, a friend, or a commercial, but these human voices have spiritual voices and messages that stand behind them. There are godly messages, and there are evil messages. These messages instruct us, exhort us, warn us, and make promises to us. The questions we must ask are, Whose voice will I listen to? What message will I trust as good and helpful? What message will I reject as bad and harmful?</p> In life we are bombarded with all kinds of voices and messages. These are human voices. They might be a parent, a teacher, a coach, a coworker, a friend, or a commercial, but these human voices have spiritual voices and messages that stand behind them. There are godly messages, and there are evil messages. These messages instruct us, exhort us, warn us, and make promises to us. The questions we must ask are, Whose voice will I listen to? What message will I trust as good and helpful? What message will I reject as bad and harmful?

]]> Sun, 23 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2185 55 e49fd4e0940010a28b8e8e37827c8c4e no Wisdom: Accepted or Declined? - Week 3 The Book of Proverbs - Navigating Life Ben James <p>Introduction: Hellfire and brimstone preaching can be harsh, and there are definitely wrong ways to do it. Many people can use the threat of hell as a way to manipulate people into making decisions. But many people preach with this kind of passion—like our group leader—because they really do love people and do not want them to perish. We can debate the most effective methods of evangelism and the best ways to go about it, but what we can’t debate is that there is an urgent need to plead with those headed toward destruction to repent and believe the gospel.</p><p>Shockingly, in Proverbs 1:20-33 Wisdom is presented as a “turn or burn” street preacher who appeals to “the inexperienced” to turn and not perish. Wisdom warns that we are heading for disaster because of our foolishness and brokenness. Wisdom pleads with us to repent. This passage is essential to rightly understanding the book of Proverbs and the biblical concept of wisdom. Ultimately, wisdom is not a set of ideas; wisdom is a person—Jesus Christ. You need to begin a personal relationship with him by faith. If you do, he will forgive your sin and give you his Spirit. This will lead you to wisdom for abundant life here and eternal life hereafter. But rejecting Wisdom—Jesus—will wreck your life here and condemn you eternally hereafter. Whether or not you have a relationship with Jesus determines if you walk in wisdom or in a way that seems right to you.</p><p><br></p><p>Key Takeaway: Part of living an abundant life in Christ is learning His wisdom now instead of learning about it later.</p><p><br></p><p>Main Points:</p><p>Wisdoms Plea v20-23</p><p>Wisdoms Warning v24-31</p><p>Wisdoms Summary v32-33</p><p><br></p><p>Memory Verse: “Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” </p><p>2 Corinthians 6:2b</p><p><br></p><p>Proverbs in Your Life: Today is not only the day of salvation, but it is the day to learn wisdom from God. Who will you be like: the proud and foolish, or the humble and willing?</p> <p>Introduction: Hellfire and brimstone preaching can be harsh, and there are definitely wrong ways to do it. Many people can use the threat of hell as a way to manipulate people into making decisions. But many people preach with this kind of passion—like our group leader—because they really do love people and do not want them to perish. We can debate the most effective methods of evangelism and the best ways to go about it, but what we can’t debate is that there is an urgent need to plead with those headed toward destruction to repent and believe the gospel.</p><p>Shockingly, in Proverbs 1:20-33 Wisdom is presented as a “turn or burn” street preacher who appeals to “the inexperienced” to turn and not perish. Wisdom warns that we are heading for disaster because of our foolishness and brokenness. Wisdom pleads with us to repent. This passage is essential to rightly understanding the book of Proverbs and the biblical concept of wisdom. Ultimately, wisdom is not a set of ideas; wisdom is a person—Jesus Christ. You need to begin a personal relationship with him by faith. If you do, he will forgive your sin and give you his Spirit. This will lead you to wisdom for abundant life here and eternal life hereafter. But rejecting Wisdom—Jesus—will wreck your life here and condemn you eternally hereafter. Whether or not you have a relationship with Jesus determines if you walk in wisdom or in a way that seems right to you.</p><p><br></p><p>Key Takeaway: Part of living an abundant life in Christ is learning His wisdom now instead of learning about it later.</p><p><br></p><p>Main Points:</p><p>Wisdoms Plea v20-23</p><p>Wisdoms Warning v24-31</p><p>Wisdoms Summary v32-33</p><p><br></p><p>Memory Verse: “Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” </p><p>2 Corinthians 6:2b</p><p><br></p><p>Proverbs in Your Life: Today is not only the day of salvation, but it is the day to learn wisdom from God. Who will you be like: the proud and foolish, or the humble and willing?</p> Introduction: Hellfire and brimstone preaching can be harsh, and there are definitely wrong ways to do it. Many people can use the threat of hell as a way to manipulate people into making decisions. But many people preach with this kind of passion—like our group leader—because they really do love people and do not want them to perish. We can debate the most effective methods of evangelism and the best ways to go about it, but what we can’t debate is that there is an urgent need to plead with those headed toward destruction to repent and believe the gospel.

Shockingly, in Proverbs 1:20-33 Wisdom is presented as a “turn or burn” street preacher who appeals to “the inexperienced” to turn and not perish. Wisdom warns that we are heading for disaster because of our foolishness and brokenness. Wisdom pleads with us to repent. This passage is essential to rightly understanding the book of Proverbs and the biblical concept of wisdom. Ultimately, wisdom is not a set of ideas; wisdom is a person—Jesus Christ. You need to begin a personal relationship with him by faith. If you do, he will forgive your sin and give you his Spirit. This will lead you to wisdom for abundant life here and eternal life hereafter. But rejecting Wisdom—Jesus—will wreck your life here and condemn you eternally hereafter. Whether or not you have a relationship with Jesus determines if you walk in wisdom or in a way that seems right to you.


Key Takeaway: Part of living an abundant life in Christ is learning His wisdom now instead of learning about it later.


Main Points:

Wisdoms Plea v20-23

Wisdoms Warning v24-31

Wisdoms Summary v32-33


Memory Verse: “Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 

2 Corinthians 6:2b


Proverbs in Your Life: Today is not only the day of salvation, but it is the day to learn wisdom from God. Who will you be like: the proud and foolish, or the humble and willing?

]]> Sun, 16 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2066 56 0a1aa4314ad321f723b205cae05f8e62 no Beginning of Knowledge - Week 2 Proverbs 1:7 <p>Introduction: We all view the world in a certain way—through a certain lens. However, the fall of humankind into sin has assured that we do not see the world rightly. We don’t view the world the way it really is, so we make wrong decisions that go against the grain of how the world really is. However, if we will observe the world through the lens that God has given in fear of Him, we can start perceiving how things really are. And once we start living according to that pattern, we will walk in wisdom.</p><p>Getting wisdom is important because it will help you make decisions in everyday life. It will help you “win” at life. But failing to get wisdom will wreck your life. The problem for all of us is that we have failed repeatedly because even when we know what to do, we often don’t do it. This reveals our brokenness. Where do we turn? What’s the answer for us? How can we become wise when we are so broken we can’t even do what we know is right?</p><p>Wisdom is a person—Jesus of Nazareth. Through a relationship with Him you can be reconciled to God, to others, and to the world around you. Through a relationship with Him, he will begin to produce in you the wisdom he lives out—the wisdom of Proverbs!</p><p><br></p><p>Key Takeaway: Growing in the fear of the Lord leads us in growing in wisdom.</p><p><br></p><p>Main Points:</p><p>The Fear of God Explained</p><p>The Fear of God Esteemed</p><p>The Folly of the Lack of Fear</p><p><br></p><p>Quote: “We will only see things in the world wisely when we seek God worshipfully.” David Platt</p><p><br></p><p>Memory Verse: The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge;</p><p>fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7</p> <p>Introduction: We all view the world in a certain way—through a certain lens. However, the fall of humankind into sin has assured that we do not see the world rightly. We don’t view the world the way it really is, so we make wrong decisions that go against the grain of how the world really is. However, if we will observe the world through the lens that God has given in fear of Him, we can start perceiving how things really are. And once we start living according to that pattern, we will walk in wisdom.</p><p>Getting wisdom is important because it will help you make decisions in everyday life. It will help you “win” at life. But failing to get wisdom will wreck your life. The problem for all of us is that we have failed repeatedly because even when we know what to do, we often don’t do it. This reveals our brokenness. Where do we turn? What’s the answer for us? How can we become wise when we are so broken we can’t even do what we know is right?</p><p>Wisdom is a person—Jesus of Nazareth. Through a relationship with Him you can be reconciled to God, to others, and to the world around you. Through a relationship with Him, he will begin to produce in you the wisdom he lives out—the wisdom of Proverbs!</p><p><br></p><p>Key Takeaway: Growing in the fear of the Lord leads us in growing in wisdom.</p><p><br></p><p>Main Points:</p><p>The Fear of God Explained</p><p>The Fear of God Esteemed</p><p>The Folly of the Lack of Fear</p><p><br></p><p>Quote: “We will only see things in the world wisely when we seek God worshipfully.” David Platt</p><p><br></p><p>Memory Verse: The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge;</p><p>fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7</p> Introduction: We all view the world in a certain way—through a certain lens. However, the fall of humankind into sin has assured that we do not see the world rightly. We don’t view the world the way it really is, so we make wrong decisions that go against the grain of how the world really is. However, if we will observe the world through the lens that God has given in fear of Him, we can start perceiving how things really are. And once we start living according to that pattern, we will walk in wisdom.

Getting wisdom is important because it will help you make decisions in everyday life. It will help you “win” at life. But failing to get wisdom will wreck your life. The problem for all of us is that we have failed repeatedly because even when we know what to do, we often don’t do it. This reveals our brokenness. Where do we turn? What’s the answer for us? How can we become wise when we are so broken we can’t even do what we know is right?

Wisdom is a person—Jesus of Nazareth. Through a relationship with Him you can be reconciled to God, to others, and to the world around you. Through a relationship with Him, he will begin to produce in you the wisdom he lives out—the wisdom of Proverbs!


Key Takeaway: Growing in the fear of the Lord leads us in growing in wisdom.


Main Points:

The Fear of God Explained

The Fear of God Esteemed

The Folly of the Lack of Fear


Quote: “We will only see things in the world wisely when we seek God worshipfully.” David Platt


Memory Verse: The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge;

fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7

]]> Sun, 09 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1802 57 821076aa083e10c70dffc2b6563eb9e2 no Why Proverbs? - Week 1 Navigating Life Britt Bush <p>People desperately want to “win” at life. They want to succeed in everyday life, and Christians are no different. We search frantically for tips from books, from “experts” on TV, the internet, TikTok or anywhere we can find them. The problem is that many Christians look everywhere but the Bible to learn how to “win” at parenting, finances, marriage, the workplace, and other areas of life. </p><p>Even Christians who want a “Christian” perspective on these topics are more likely to look to a Christian book than to the Book—the Bible!</p><p>What does all of this tell us? It tells us that we have a major problem that no amount of tips will solve. It tells us that we are not wise and are often foolish. It tells us that we are broken and don’t work right. It tells us that we are in desperate need of wisdom to make decisions and navigate our way through life. But we can’t just say that we need wisdom and then go after it. Since we are broken, we don’t even follow the wisdom we already know. We do things we know are hurtful and foolish. We just can’t help ourselves.</p><p>Proverbs is all about becoming wise in everyday life through a relationship with Jesus—through the gospel. It’s about the life of the kingdom that God always meant for humankind to live. When our vertical relationship with God is right through Jesus, we can be right with others and the world around us.</p><p><br></p><p>Key Takeaway: Without Jesus Christ in our lives, there is no way to be truly wise.</p><p><br></p><p>Main Points:</p><p>The Purpose of Proverbs</p><p>The Purpose of Wisdom</p><p>The Purpose of Experience & Counsel</p><p><br></p><p>Quote: “A proverb is a short sentence based on a long experience.” Cervantes in Don Quixote</p><p><br></p><p>Memory Verse: “(Christ)... in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:3</p><p><br></p><p>Proverbs in Your Life: Where have you been searching for your source of wisdom in life? Your habits, and first responses will reveal the true source.</p><p><br></p><p>Related Resources:</p><p>Bible Project Guide:<a href="https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-proverbs/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-proverbs" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-proverbs/</a></p><p>Bible Project Video:<a href="https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/proverbs/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/proverbs" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/proverbs/</a></p> <p>People desperately want to “win” at life. They want to succeed in everyday life, and Christians are no different. We search frantically for tips from books, from “experts” on TV, the internet, TikTok or anywhere we can find them. The problem is that many Christians look everywhere but the Bible to learn how to “win” at parenting, finances, marriage, the workplace, and other areas of life. </p><p>Even Christians who want a “Christian” perspective on these topics are more likely to look to a Christian book than to the Book—the Bible!</p><p>What does all of this tell us? It tells us that we have a major problem that no amount of tips will solve. It tells us that we are not wise and are often foolish. It tells us that we are broken and don’t work right. It tells us that we are in desperate need of wisdom to make decisions and navigate our way through life. But we can’t just say that we need wisdom and then go after it. Since we are broken, we don’t even follow the wisdom we already know. We do things we know are hurtful and foolish. We just can’t help ourselves.</p><p>Proverbs is all about becoming wise in everyday life through a relationship with Jesus—through the gospel. It’s about the life of the kingdom that God always meant for humankind to live. When our vertical relationship with God is right through Jesus, we can be right with others and the world around us.</p><p><br></p><p>Key Takeaway: Without Jesus Christ in our lives, there is no way to be truly wise.</p><p><br></p><p>Main Points:</p><p>The Purpose of Proverbs</p><p>The Purpose of Wisdom</p><p>The Purpose of Experience & Counsel</p><p><br></p><p>Quote: “A proverb is a short sentence based on a long experience.” Cervantes in Don Quixote</p><p><br></p><p>Memory Verse: “(Christ)... in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:3</p><p><br></p><p>Proverbs in Your Life: Where have you been searching for your source of wisdom in life? Your habits, and first responses will reveal the true source.</p><p><br></p><p>Related Resources:</p><p>Bible Project Guide:<a href="https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-proverbs/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-proverbs" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-proverbs/</a></p><p>Bible Project Video:<a href="https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/proverbs/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/proverbs" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/proverbs/</a></p> People desperately want to “win” at life. They want to succeed in everyday life, and Christians are no different. We search frantically for tips from books, from “experts” on TV, the internet, TikTok or anywhere we can find them. The problem is that many Christians look everywhere but the Bible to learn how to “win” at parenting, finances, marriage, the workplace, and other areas of life. 

Even Christians who want a “Christian” perspective on these topics are more likely to look to a Christian book than to the Book—the Bible!

What does all of this tell us? It tells us that we have a major problem that no amount of tips will solve. It tells us that we are not wise and are often foolish. It tells us that we are broken and don’t work right. It tells us that we are in desperate need of wisdom to make decisions and navigate our way through life. But we can’t just say that we need wisdom and then go after it. Since we are broken, we don’t even follow the wisdom we already know. We do things we know are hurtful and foolish. We just can’t help ourselves.

Proverbs is all about becoming wise in everyday life through a relationship with Jesus—through the gospel. It’s about the life of the kingdom that God always meant for humankind to live. When our vertical relationship with God is right through Jesus, we can be right with others and the world around us.


Key Takeaway: Without Jesus Christ in our lives, there is no way to be truly wise.


Main Points:

The Purpose of Proverbs

The Purpose of Wisdom

The Purpose of Experience & Counsel


Quote: “A proverb is a short sentence based on a long experience.” Cervantes in Don Quixote


Memory Verse: “(Christ)... in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:3


Proverbs in Your Life: Where have you been searching for your source of wisdom in life? Your habits, and first responses will reveal the true source.


Related Resources:

Bible Project Guide: https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-proverbs/

Bible Project Video: https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/proverbs/

]]> Sun, 02 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1687 58 cbcd1c281fbf9834f467cf28f3192f5b no A New Passion - Week 4 Ben James Sun, 26 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2103 59 330343cce3f23e1db676a327f950bd7a no A New Purpose - Week 3 Sun, 19 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2115 60 43aff800e5c823bc619d9e8991224e31 no A New Person - Week 2 Sun, 12 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2115 61 abe968bcf28adb7879746c016d0fba8e no A New Perspective - Week 1 Sun, 05 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1852 62 83dbbfb2a966692a3b771dda83bd8d63 no Surrendered Adoration - Week 6 Season of Surrender Ben James Sun, 29 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2183 63 8b3ef98e68f0b5be73037df68e66f177 no Surrendered Expectancy - Week 5 Season of Surrender Ben James <p>Christmas Eve Candlelight Service</p> <p>Christmas Eve Candlelight Service</p> Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

]]> Tue, 24 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 947 64 fa02e269a9119732bd4ef9f133c71e64 no Surrendered Joy - Week 4 Season of Surrender Ben James Sun, 22 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2342 65 f6a3d67842f3fc4d6fb07547d3d0e7ee no Surrendered Love - Week 3 Season of Surrender Ben James Sun, 15 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2291 66 5456e4dd2e7f6af90a2951b7d77bd993 no Surrendered Peace - Week 2 Season Surrender Sun, 08 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2140 67 a96a464fb4defcad72e4de60d9d498fe no Surrendered Hope - Week 1 Season of Surrender Ben James Sun, 01 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2140 68 b39f29f058ba4abf00cffca052d8767e no Walk on Purpose Week 4 Sun, 27 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2156 69 1f98ec7b6dac078664028368acbc7290 no Loving Selflessly Week 3 Sun, 20 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2106 70 ac80b54e338152f6043d72e0a36a3104 no Wait In Hope - Week 2 Sun, 13 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2131 71 826263521a26e9d069240d12eb83665f no Led By The Spirit Week 1 Sun, 06 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2219 72 ed6d0d68ce5e3aa072ea31db8f7fe830 no Fountain of Life - Week 19 Proverbs Ben James <p>The heart of the righteous is a fountain of life....</p> <p>The heart of the righteous is a fountain of life....</p> The heart of the righteous is a fountain of life....

]]> 1616 73 9f251ad1e85ca5abed8ed055a79654ce no Pentecost - Week 4 Ben James <p>On the day of Pentecost, everything changed. What was once a small, waiting, and uncertain group of disciples became an empowered, global movement. Pentecost is not just a moment in church history… it is the moment where heaven meets earth in a new way, where the Holy Spirit ignites the Church, and where the mission of Jesus bursts forth with power. Pentecost reminds us that God is not distant, but present, active, and ready to move through ordinary people like us.</p><p><br></p> <p>On the day of Pentecost, everything changed. What was once a small, waiting, and uncertain group of disciples became an empowered, global movement. Pentecost is not just a moment in church history… it is the moment where heaven meets earth in a new way, where the Holy Spirit ignites the Church, and where the mission of Jesus bursts forth with power. Pentecost reminds us that God is not distant, but present, active, and ready to move through ordinary people like us.</p><p><br></p> On the day of Pentecost, everything changed. What was once a small, waiting, and uncertain group of disciples became an empowered, global movement. Pentecost is not just a moment in church history… it is the moment where heaven meets earth in a new way, where the Holy Spirit ignites the Church, and where the mission of Jesus bursts forth with power. Pentecost reminds us that God is not distant, but present, active, and ready to move through ordinary people like us.


]]> 1885 74 764e17fbd1e7a2f556655505d5ef9d6d no