Bethany Baptist Church - Lubbock https://www.bethanybaptist.cc/ Bethany Baptist Church david@bbclubbock.com Bethany Baptist Church This podcast features the full length sermons preached at Bethany Baptist Church of Lubbock, Texas. The messages include those preached by Pastor Dan Preston as well as other staff members and guest speakers. We pray these are a blessing to you. This podcast features the full length sermons preached at Bethany Baptist Church of Lubbock, Texas. The messages include those preached by Pastor Dan Preston as well as other staff members and guest speakers. We pray these are a blessing to you. en © 2026 Bethany Baptist Church - Lubbock no God Is Working David Wood Sun, 25 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2446 1 d74718eb058e825490a69273f96f1ccc no Are You Seeking the Kingdom of God? Carter Uldrych <p>Bro. Carter Uldrych, missionary to Japan, preaches a message on the promised blessings of truly seeking the Kingdom of God.</p> <p>Bro. Carter Uldrych, missionary to Japan, preaches a message on the promised blessings of truly seeking the Kingdom of God.</p> Bro. Carter Uldrych, missionary to Japan, preaches a message on the promised blessings of truly seeking the Kingdom of God.

]]> Wed, 28 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1845 2 e4dd2c617777331e2565d2d43751ac2b no That's Not Fair David Wood Sun, 25 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2332 3 42171111a3bebb1c3d2a07b9e1bd7a39 no A Tour Through the Bible (4) Job — Song of Solomon Mike Gilbert <p>An Outline of Each Book of the Bible.</p> <p>An Outline of Each Book of the Bible.</p> An Outline of Each Book of the Bible.

]]> Sun, 25 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2646 4 43ee8439b2a4aa7b61b04de821c632cb no God Is Speaking Dan Preston <p>God is constantly speaking, but are we listening? In Psalm 19, David reminds us that God reveals Himself through His creation, speaks to us through His Word, and uses His truth to expose what needs to change in our hearts. This message challenges us to look up, open up, and clean up as we learn to recognize God's voice and respond in obedience.</p> <p>God is constantly speaking, but are we listening? In Psalm 19, David reminds us that God reveals Himself through His creation, speaks to us through His Word, and uses His truth to expose what needs to change in our hearts. This message challenges us to look up, open up, and clean up as we learn to recognize God's voice and respond in obedience.</p> God is constantly speaking, but are we listening? In Psalm 19, David reminds us that God reveals Himself through His creation, speaks to us through His Word, and uses His truth to expose what needs to change in our hearts. This message challenges us to look up, open up, and clean up as we learn to recognize God's voice and respond in obedience.

]]> Wed, 21 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1927 5 de01f0e9a5ee1cd1776862dd348d282f no Youth Takeover Service Colton Porter, Emmitt Hale, Landon Jeskey <p>Watch as our young people handle tonight's service — from beginning to end.</p> <p>Watch as our young people handle tonight's service — from beginning to end.</p> Watch as our young people handle tonight's service — from beginning to end.

]]> Sun, 18 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3420 6 3b7e75cdcd170107c27eed0101690217 no A Tour Through the Bible (3) 2nd kings — Esther Mike Gilbert <p>An Outline of Each Book of the Bible.</p> <p>An Outline of Each Book of the Bible.</p> An Outline of Each Book of the Bible.

]]> Sun, 18 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2528 7 b67382727e9e93d2c9d6511e5412b4d3 no When Your Life Contradicts Your Faith Dan Preston <p>In Galatians 2:11–16, Paul confronts Peter because his actions contradicted the gospel he believed. Peter allowed his fear of others to influence his decisions, leading others to follow his example. This passage reminds us that knowing the truth is not enough; we must live it. Our actions should reflect the gospel and the transforming power of Jesus Christ.</p> <p>In Galatians 2:11–16, Paul confronts Peter because his actions contradicted the gospel he believed. Peter allowed his fear of others to influence his decisions, leading others to follow his example. This passage reminds us that knowing the truth is not enough; we must live it. Our actions should reflect the gospel and the transforming power of Jesus Christ.</p> In Galatians 2:11–16, Paul confronts Peter because his actions contradicted the gospel he believed. Peter allowed his fear of others to influence his decisions, leading others to follow his example. This passage reminds us that knowing the truth is not enough; we must live it. Our actions should reflect the gospel and the transforming power of Jesus Christ.

]]> Sun, 18 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2272 8 b3931182cf25c67c1024734833c9f49b no The Christ We Share Is the Christ We Need Keith Roberts <p>In 2 Corinthians 4, Paul reminds us that our ministry comes from God's mercy, our message is Jesus Christ, and our power comes from God alone. While the lost desperately need the light of the gospel, those of us who know Christ still need Him to change our attitudes, strengthen our faith, and help us obey.</p> <p>In 2 Corinthians 4, Paul reminds us that our ministry comes from God's mercy, our message is Jesus Christ, and our power comes from God alone. While the lost desperately need the light of the gospel, those of us who know Christ still need Him to change our attitudes, strengthen our faith, and help us obey.</p> In 2 Corinthians 4, Paul reminds us that our ministry comes from God's mercy, our message is Jesus Christ, and our power comes from God alone. While the lost desperately need the light of the gospel, those of us who know Christ still need Him to change our attitudes, strengthen our faith, and help us obey.

]]> Wed, 14 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1979 9 7126109eff0cf9b49b95c7f4b3dc397e no An Unkind Spirit Week 7 David Wood <p>Life is filled with frustrations, interruptions, and difficult people—but none of those give us an excuse to be unkind. In this lesson, “An Unkind Spirit,” we’ll look at how harsh words and attitudes can quietly damage our closest relationships and discover from Scripture how God can develop genuine kindness in our hearts. Through the example of David and Mephibosheth, we’ll see how gratitude, godliness, and generosity can help us respond with kindness—even when it isn’t easy or deserved.</p> <p>Life is filled with frustrations, interruptions, and difficult people—but none of those give us an excuse to be unkind. In this lesson, “An Unkind Spirit,” we’ll look at how harsh words and attitudes can quietly damage our closest relationships and discover from Scripture how God can develop genuine kindness in our hearts. Through the example of David and Mephibosheth, we’ll see how gratitude, godliness, and generosity can help us respond with kindness—even when it isn’t easy or deserved.</p> Life is filled with frustrations, interruptions, and difficult people—but none of those give us an excuse to be unkind. In this lesson, “An Unkind Spirit,” we’ll look at how harsh words and attitudes can quietly damage our closest relationships and discover from Scripture how God can develop genuine kindness in our hearts. Through the example of David and Mephibosheth, we’ll see how gratitude, godliness, and generosity can help us respond with kindness—even when it isn’t easy or deserved.

]]> Sat, 03 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2156 10 388dcdae7af6f376849652d38137c159 no Remember Jesus Christ Dan Preston Sun, 11 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2227 11 c383891171c4d0f464d3bef84b9a4149 no A Tour Through the Bible (2) Exodus — 1st kings Mike Gilbert <p>An Outline of Each Book of the Bible.</p> <p>An Outline of Each Book of the Bible.</p> An Outline of Each Book of the Bible.

]]> Sun, 11 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2009 12 9308d21c23370e75c4eacfedad4052c2 no God Is Not Impressed Dan Preston <p>What does it take to be accepted by God? In Galatians 2:1–10, we discover that salvation is not based on who we are, what we have done, or how religious we appear. The good news of the Gospel is that we cannot earn God's acceptance, but Jesus Christ has already done everything necessary for our salvation. Our confidence must rest in Christ alone.</p> <p>What does it take to be accepted by God? In Galatians 2:1–10, we discover that salvation is not based on who we are, what we have done, or how religious we appear. The good news of the Gospel is that we cannot earn God's acceptance, but Jesus Christ has already done everything necessary for our salvation. Our confidence must rest in Christ alone.</p> What does it take to be accepted by God? In Galatians 2:1–10, we discover that salvation is not based on who we are, what we have done, or how religious we appear. The good news of the Gospel is that we cannot earn God's acceptance, but Jesus Christ has already done everything necessary for our salvation. Our confidence must rest in Christ alone.

]]> Sun, 11 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2430 13 fb217376aa9dd844403badbda3f66004 no Stay In the Fight Dan Preston <p>Paul had poured himself into Timothy, but he knew Timothy would soon have to take what he had learned and live it out for himself. Before Paul tells Timothy what faithfulness looks like, he reminds him where his strength comes from. Not from willpower or determination, but from the grace found in Christ. Paul then gives three pictures—a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer—to show what it takes to remain faithful. By the grace of Jesus Christ, stay in the fight.</p> <p>Paul had poured himself into Timothy, but he knew Timothy would soon have to take what he had learned and live it out for himself. Before Paul tells Timothy what faithfulness looks like, he reminds him where his strength comes from. Not from willpower or determination, but from the grace found in Christ. Paul then gives three pictures—a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer—to show what it takes to remain faithful. By the grace of Jesus Christ, stay in the fight.</p> Paul had poured himself into Timothy, but he knew Timothy would soon have to take what he had learned and live it out for himself. Before Paul tells Timothy what faithfulness looks like, he reminds him where his strength comes from. Not from willpower or determination, but from the grace found in Christ. Paul then gives three pictures—a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer—to show what it takes to remain faithful. By the grace of Jesus Christ, stay in the fight.

]]> Sun, 04 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2285 14 c2bd8fc3f28593a80079c3ba904a8edd no A Tour Through the Bible (1) Genesis — Judges Mike Gilbert <p>An Outline of Each Book of the Bible.</p> <p>An Outline of Each Book of the Bible.</p> An Outline of Each Book of the Bible.

]]> Sun, 04 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2733 15 1ce7537afd408f64b48b0b4c4b03adc9 no The Gospel That Changed Everything Dan Preston <p>Consider not only what the gospel did for Paul, but what that same gospel can do for us.</p> <p>Consider not only what the gospel did for Paul, but what that same gospel can do for us.</p> Consider not only what the gospel did for Paul, but what that same gospel can do for us.

]]> Sun, 04 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2411 16 96d1861511f07a185c5023e3146972b0 no The Unprofitable Servant Mike Gilbert <p>Bro. Mike Gilbert explains the required duty of the Lord’s faithful servant.</p> <p>Bro. Mike Gilbert explains the required duty of the Lord’s faithful servant.</p> Bro. Mike Gilbert explains the required duty of the Lord’s faithful servant.

]]> Wed, 30 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2058 17 7bb62cec7d31745c30c780e44294b4bc no Where Are You, God? David Wood Sun, 27 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2080 18 47256c08a3f454258c62c440ed1a571d no As it Was in the Days of Noah Prophecy Update Mike Gilbert Sun, 27 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2577 19 7bb6a7821b050e09b153435a06f33960 no The Proper View of Jesus Trevor Hampton <p>A proper view of Jesus recognizes our sinful condition and responds to His sacrifice with a life fully surrendered to Him.</p> <p>A proper view of Jesus recognizes our sinful condition and responds to His sacrifice with a life fully surrendered to Him.</p> A proper view of Jesus recognizes our sinful condition and responds to His sacrifice with a life fully surrendered to Him.

]]> Sun, 27 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1821 20 3ebabc29da1e3fb4a666f361b6459288 no Blame Shifting Week 4 David Wood <p>When something goes wrong, our first instinct is often to look for someone else to blame. But blame-shifting never fixes the problem—it usually damages our relationships and keeps us from seeing what God wants to change in us. In this lesson, “Blame Shifting,” we’ll look at biblical examples of people who blamed God, their circumstances, and others, and discover how honesty, personal responsibility, forgiveness, and choosing to “overcome evil with good” can strengthen our relationships with God and with one another. </p> <p>When something goes wrong, our first instinct is often to look for someone else to blame. But blame-shifting never fixes the problem—it usually damages our relationships and keeps us from seeing what God wants to change in us. In this lesson, “Blame Shifting,” we’ll look at biblical examples of people who blamed God, their circumstances, and others, and discover how honesty, personal responsibility, forgiveness, and choosing to “overcome evil with good” can strengthen our relationships with God and with one another. </p> When something goes wrong, our first instinct is often to look for someone else to blame. But blame-shifting never fixes the problem—it usually damages our relationships and keeps us from seeing what God wants to change in us. In this lesson, “Blame Shifting,” we’ll look at biblical examples of people who blamed God, their circumstances, and others, and discover how honesty, personal responsibility, forgiveness, and choosing to “overcome evil with good” can strengthen our relationships with God and with one another. 

]]> Sat, 12 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1995 21 6775c0cc890d700ff7717f923a96dac8 no The Goodness of God Dan Preston <p>God’s goodness is seen in the people He gives us, the portion He provides, the counsel He offers, and the eternal hope we have in Him.</p> <p>God’s goodness is seen in the people He gives us, the portion He provides, the counsel He offers, and the eternal hope we have in Him.</p> God’s goodness is seen in the people He gives us, the portion He provides, the counsel He offers, and the eternal hope we have in Him.

]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2014 22 cccc51697baeb3995ee3f9bea43f229f no Recapturing the Glory of the Gospel Sam Hutchins <p>The Gospel is glorious because it is Superior, Sufficient, & Simple.</p> <p>The Gospel is glorious because it is Superior, Sufficient, & Simple.</p> The Gospel is glorious because it is Superior, Sufficient, & Simple.

]]> Sun, 20 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1854 23 5195b794e9d131fa7208618a9ffbda5f no The End of Genesis, and the Birth of a Nation Mike Gilbert Sun, 20 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2650 24 36f94256dfecbdb7affd6c690f8b560b no No Other Gospel Dan Preston <p>The gospel must be guarded because salvation is found in Jesus Christ alone, with nothing added to His finished work.</p> <p>The gospel must be guarded because salvation is found in Jesus Christ alone, with nothing added to His finished work.</p> The gospel must be guarded because salvation is found in Jesus Christ alone, with nothing added to His finished work.

]]> Sun, 20 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2018 25 2903aeea2048084801044e8be6ccd7e0 no When You Look Up Dan Preston <p>When we look up and see the greatness of God, everything else falls into proper perspective as we remember His care, power, and purpose for our lives.</p> <p>When we look up and see the greatness of God, everything else falls into proper perspective as we remember His care, power, and purpose for our lives.</p> When we look up and see the greatness of God, everything else falls into proper perspective as we remember His care, power, and purpose for our lives.

]]> Wed, 16 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1892 26 e82a68bf59295255bc7c346be76296bc no Bitterness Week 3 David Wood <p>Bitterness can quietly take root in our hearts and rob us of peace, joy, and healthy relationships. In this lesson from Hebrews 12:14–17, we examine the warning signs of bitterness and discover biblical principles for pursuing peace, guarding our hearts, and relying on God’s grace through humility and faith.</p> <p>Bitterness can quietly take root in our hearts and rob us of peace, joy, and healthy relationships. In this lesson from Hebrews 12:14–17, we examine the warning signs of bitterness and discover biblical principles for pursuing peace, guarding our hearts, and relying on God’s grace through humility and faith.</p> Bitterness can quietly take root in our hearts and rob us of peace, joy, and healthy relationships. In this lesson from Hebrews 12:14–17, we examine the warning signs of bitterness and discover biblical principles for pursuing peace, guarding our hearts, and relying on God’s grace through humility and faith.

]]> Sat, 05 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2164 27 1873e5edfd26afdbddfecce7e99a5fab no Don't Give Up Dan Preston <p>Faithfulness means refusing to give up by remembering God’s work, using what He has given, standing unashamed for the gospel, and holding firmly to the truth until the end.</p> <p>Faithfulness means refusing to give up by remembering God’s work, using what He has given, standing unashamed for the gospel, and holding firmly to the truth until the end.</p> Faithfulness means refusing to give up by remembering God’s work, using what He has given, standing unashamed for the gospel, and holding firmly to the truth until the end.

]]> Sun, 13 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2329 28 86d59cc99e00bfe1914f129d90afa10f no The Prophecies of the 12 Tribes of Israel (2) Mike Gilbert Sun, 13 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2778 29 2a53c0769484f6b2f1f0bd4948d89cd8 no The Gospel That Sets Us Free Dan Preston <p>The gospel sets us free by reminding us that salvation is entirely the work of God, accomplished by Christ, and received by grace rather than earned through our own efforts.</p> <p>The gospel sets us free by reminding us that salvation is entirely the work of God, accomplished by Christ, and received by grace rather than earned through our own efforts.</p> The gospel sets us free by reminding us that salvation is entirely the work of God, accomplished by Christ, and received by grace rather than earned through our own efforts.

]]> Sun, 13 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2213 30 447f5d3f56e445f5f19d42888e4b1d90 no When Life Falls Apart Dan Preston <p>When life falls apart, we can find peace by trusting in who God is rather than what our circumstances say.</p> <p>When life falls apart, we can find peace by trusting in who God is rather than what our circumstances say.</p> When life falls apart, we can find peace by trusting in who God is rather than what our circumstances say.

]]> Wed, 09 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2250 31 4c1cb4743a603c86bf8fa64647c667d8 no Bad Communication Week 2 David Wood <p>Bad communication can quietly rob us of the strong, healthy relationships God desires for us. In this lesson from Ephesians 4:25–32, we examine common communication problems that damage relationships and discover biblical principles for speaking with truth, grace, kindness, and forgiveness.</p> <p>Bad communication can quietly rob us of the strong, healthy relationships God desires for us. In this lesson from Ephesians 4:25–32, we examine common communication problems that damage relationships and discover biblical principles for speaking with truth, grace, kindness, and forgiveness.</p> Bad communication can quietly rob us of the strong, healthy relationships God desires for us. In this lesson from Ephesians 4:25–32, we examine common communication problems that damage relationships and discover biblical principles for speaking with truth, grace, kindness, and forgiveness.

]]> Sat, 29 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2016 32 55ff8826cdf39e87e0070e10ec0ca87e no The Prophecies of the 12 Tribes of Israel (1) Mike Gilbert Sun, 06 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2539 33 943fb110444156b1275e6f662937df7a no Don't Lose Heart Tyler Bittner <p>Bro. Bittner urges us to be persistent in our prayer while trusting our God, & patiently waiting for His answer.</p> <p>Bro. Bittner urges us to be persistent in our prayer while trusting our God, & patiently waiting for His answer.</p> Bro. Bittner urges us to be persistent in our prayer while trusting our God, & patiently waiting for His answer.

]]> Sun, 06 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2291 34 143bd591b5fd60509dbe6b1eb6c338eb no The King the World Cannot Ignore Dan Preston <p>God remains sovereign over a rebellious world, Christ is the rightful King, and true wisdom is found in humbly submitting to His rule.</p> <p>God remains sovereign over a rebellious world, Christ is the rightful King, and true wisdom is found in humbly submitting to His rule.</p> God remains sovereign over a rebellious world, Christ is the rightful King, and true wisdom is found in humbly submitting to His rule.

]]> Wed, 02 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2141 35 e307262463b3892d71279515f7d45a0c no Jacob in Egypt Summary of Genesis (67) Mike Gilbert Sun, 30 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2525 36 7da4389b1765dabdbfb0264fa597db42 no When Everything Changes Dan Preston <p>When everything around us changes, we can remain faithful and confident because Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.</p> <p>When everything around us changes, we can remain faithful and confident because Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.</p> When everything around us changes, we can remain faithful and confident because Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

]]> Sun, 30 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2344 37 7b0d3601c05fc21b5f6f7b6868542db3 no Which Way Are You Walking? Dan Preston <p>The path chosen and the voices followed determine whether a life becomes rooted, fruitful, and blessed by God or ultimately ends in destruction.</p> <p>The path chosen and the voices followed determine whether a life becomes rooted, fruitful, and blessed by God or ultimately ends in destruction.</p> The path chosen and the voices followed determine whether a life becomes rooted, fruitful, and blessed by God or ultimately ends in destruction.

]]> Wed, 26 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1904 38 1fa783ad1500d314419d1aa86010e701 no Rules of Engagement Dan Preston <p>The Christian’s rules of engagement are to flee temptation, pursue Christlike character, fight the good fight of faith, and never lose sight of the King we serve.</p> <p>The Christian’s rules of engagement are to flee temptation, pursue Christlike character, fight the good fight of faith, and never lose sight of the King we serve.</p> The Christian’s rules of engagement are to flee temptation, pursue Christlike character, fight the good fight of faith, and never lose sight of the King we serve.

]]> Sun, 23 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2484 39 045542957a614f2dcda6cfce56f7e2a3 no Paul’s Thorn In the Flesh Jeryl Mason <p>Bro. Mason speaks of Paul’s Witness, Weariness, Willingness, and his Weakness.</p> <p>Bro. Mason speaks of Paul’s Witness, Weariness, Willingness, and his Weakness.</p> Bro. Mason speaks of Paul’s Witness, Weariness, Willingness, and his Weakness.

]]> Sun, 23 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2640 40 12c6b0574ade9332d930317b4eef0619 no A Better Savior, A Better Life Dan Preston <p>A better Savior produces a better life as Christ transforms our relationships, our homes, and our contentment through His faithful presence. </p> <p>A better Savior produces a better life as Christ transforms our relationships, our homes, and our contentment through His faithful presence. </p> A better Savior produces a better life as Christ transforms our relationships, our homes, and our contentment through His faithful presence. 

]]> Sun, 23 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2152 41 7c92db29d6aac81b10b94dd876ec6055 no Daniel: Persistent Prayer David Wood <p>Persistent prayer flows from a close relationship with God that causes us to continually seek and depend upon Him.</p> <p>Persistent prayer flows from a close relationship with God that causes us to continually seek and depend upon Him.</p> Persistent prayer flows from a close relationship with God that causes us to continually seek and depend upon Him.

]]> Wed, 19 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1788 42 8bc5194102f97ca8f3d39feeb6e834bf no When Christ is Enough Dan Preston <p>True contentment is found when we stop looking to money, possessions, or circumstances to satisfy us and recognize that Jesus Christ is enough.</p> <p>True contentment is found when we stop looking to money, possessions, or circumstances to satisfy us and recognize that Jesus Christ is enough.</p> True contentment is found when we stop looking to money, possessions, or circumstances to satisfy us and recognize that Jesus Christ is enough.

]]> Sun, 16 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2058 43 5ed856e69dfa1fd569b56a26f656f267 no “Whereas Four Stood Up” Summary of Genesis (66) Mike Gilbert Sun, 16 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2788 44 58bb565e3e872c9824b2f3140332891c no From Sinai to Zion Dan Preston <p>We can never reach God through our own goodness, but through Jesus Christ we are welcomed into His presence and given a kingdom that can never be shaken.</p> <p>We can never reach God through our own goodness, but through Jesus Christ we are welcomed into His presence and given a kingdom that can never be shaken.</p> We can never reach God through our own goodness, but through Jesus Christ we are welcomed into His presence and given a kingdom that can never be shaken.

]]> Sun, 16 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2228 45 2d956b8cf8bbf5a6548b235332b31edb no Hannah: Praying Through Heartbreak Keith Preston <p>Hannah’s story teaches us that when our hearts are broken, we can bring our burdens honestly to God, trust Him with the outcome, and find peace in His presence while we wait.</p> <p>Hannah’s story teaches us that when our hearts are broken, we can bring our burdens honestly to God, trust Him with the outcome, and find peace in His presence while we wait.</p> Hannah’s story teaches us that when our hearts are broken, we can bring our burdens honestly to God, trust Him with the outcome, and find peace in His presence while we wait.

]]> Wed, 12 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1282 46 b976a68b3af02712d33b4c485b01412b no God's Not Done . . . Dave McCracken <p>Bro. Dave McCracken gives details of a personal tragic event, and explains how that God allows & uses life events to improve us & prepare us for His service.</p> <p>Bro. Dave McCracken gives details of a personal tragic event, and explains how that God allows & uses life events to improve us & prepare us for His service.</p> Bro. Dave McCracken gives details of a personal tragic event, and explains how that God allows & uses life events to improve us & prepare us for His service.

]]> Sun, 09 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3191 47 4dde995a298946b9e1fe40124e94791f no When God Stretches Our Faith Jeryl Mason Sun, 09 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2129 48 425bf589f604d202d14a0786254202f4 no The Old Man vs the New Dave McCracken <p>Bro. Dave McCracken reveals from the Bible that the old sin nature is ever present within us, and continually opposes the new born-again nature & the indwelling Holy Spirit. He then urges us to consider the question: “Who’s in charge? The old or the new?”</p> <p>Bro. Dave McCracken reveals from the Bible that the old sin nature is ever present within us, and continually opposes the new born-again nature & the indwelling Holy Spirit. He then urges us to consider the question: “Who’s in charge? The old or the new?”</p> Bro. Dave McCracken reveals from the Bible that the old sin nature is ever present within us, and continually opposes the new born-again nature & the indwelling Holy Spirit. He then urges us to consider the question: “Who’s in charge? The old or the new?”

]]> Sun, 09 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2472 49 3f7cfa35f6141dbb1dda650a0785ddf7 no Nehemiah: Burdened Prayer Zach Clay <p>God uses burdens to draw His people to prayer so they will depend on Him before stepping forward in faith and obedience.</p> <p>God uses burdens to draw His people to prayer so they will depend on Him before stepping forward in faith and obedience.</p> God uses burdens to draw His people to prayer so they will depend on Him before stepping forward in faith and obedience.

]]> Wed, 05 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1108 50 a67ef85d745d1c8b14500ffc520a1f4b no Energizing Through Experiences <p>The greatest lessons are often learned through experiences, not just words. In this lesson, we discover that our faith is strengthened as others see Christ lived out in our everyday lives. Drawing from Philippians 4:9, this lesson emphasizes that children, spouses, and those we influence are shaped by what they consistently observe in us. Through practical examples and biblical principles, you'll learn how to create meaningful spiritual experiences that leave a lasting impact, turning everyday moments into opportunities to point the next generation to Christ.</p> <p>The greatest lessons are often learned through experiences, not just words. In this lesson, we discover that our faith is strengthened as others see Christ lived out in our everyday lives. Drawing from Philippians 4:9, this lesson emphasizes that children, spouses, and those we influence are shaped by what they consistently observe in us. Through practical examples and biblical principles, you'll learn how to create meaningful spiritual experiences that leave a lasting impact, turning everyday moments into opportunities to point the next generation to Christ.</p> The greatest lessons are often learned through experiences, not just words. In this lesson, we discover that our faith is strengthened as others see Christ lived out in our everyday lives. Drawing from Philippians 4:9, this lesson emphasizes that children, spouses, and those we influence are shaped by what they consistently observe in us. Through practical examples and biblical principles, you'll learn how to create meaningful spiritual experiences that leave a lasting impact, turning everyday moments into opportunities to point the next generation to Christ.

]]> Sun, 26 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2096 51 2f19bc9eef4080bca19f403c5f23d24e no Strengthening Through Service David Wood <p>One of the greatest ways to help the next generation grow spiritually is to get them actively involved in serving the Lord. In this lesson, we see that spiritual maturity comes through obedience and hands-on ministry, not just gaining biblical knowledge. Looking at Jesus’ example of washing His disciples’ feet, this lesson highlights three essential principles for mentoring others: involve them in meaningful service, lead by personal example, and refuse to let excuses keep them from fulfilling God’s calling. The goal is to raise up faithful servants who will continue the work of the ministry for generations to come.</p> <p>One of the greatest ways to help the next generation grow spiritually is to get them actively involved in serving the Lord. In this lesson, we see that spiritual maturity comes through obedience and hands-on ministry, not just gaining biblical knowledge. Looking at Jesus’ example of washing His disciples’ feet, this lesson highlights three essential principles for mentoring others: involve them in meaningful service, lead by personal example, and refuse to let excuses keep them from fulfilling God’s calling. The goal is to raise up faithful servants who will continue the work of the ministry for generations to come.</p> One of the greatest ways to help the next generation grow spiritually is to get them actively involved in serving the Lord. In this lesson, we see that spiritual maturity comes through obedience and hands-on ministry, not just gaining biblical knowledge. Looking at Jesus’ example of washing His disciples’ feet, this lesson highlights three essential principles for mentoring others: involve them in meaningful service, lead by personal example, and refuse to let excuses keep them from fulfilling God’s calling. The goal is to raise up faithful servants who will continue the work of the ministry for generations to come.

]]> Sun, 19 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1693 52 7fb1ddc60381d27edbcd259a16c82ef6 no The Follow Through David Wood <p>Lasting spiritual growth is not found in making commitments to God, but in faithfully following through with obediently, even when it is inconvenient, uncomfortable, or costly.</p> <p>Lasting spiritual growth is not found in making commitments to God, but in faithfully following through with obediently, even when it is inconvenient, uncomfortable, or costly.</p> Lasting spiritual growth is not found in making commitments to God, but in faithfully following through with obediently, even when it is inconvenient, uncomfortable, or costly.

]]> Sun, 02 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2178 53 21707a625eca17d4c7fe3b6debf64fb2 no Leaving Home — Genesis 46 Summary of Genesis (65) Mike Gilbert Sun, 02 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2759 54 30c789f138989c20fc24b7f3df40ae6d no Hope For A Broken Heart David Wood <p>No matter how far we have drifted from God, there is hope for a broken heart when we stop minimizing our sin, honestly confess our condition, and respond in repentance and obedience to His call.</p> <p>No matter how far we have drifted from God, there is hope for a broken heart when we stop minimizing our sin, honestly confess our condition, and respond in repentance and obedience to His call.</p> No matter how far we have drifted from God, there is hope for a broken heart when we stop minimizing our sin, honestly confess our condition, and respond in repentance and obedience to His call.

]]> Sun, 02 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1760 55 573b0144b7299d79d922f8fad7d4f5fd no Christy Turner - Celebration of Life <p>Christy Lynn Turner went home to be with her Lord and Savior on July 17, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas.</p><p>Christy was born on July 22, 1970, in Hobbs, New Mexico. She grew up in Hobbs, where she met lifelong friends and the love of her life, Rance Turner.</p><p>Christy and Rance were married on November 18, 1989. They later welcomed two daughters, Bailey and Cydney. She was a loving GiGi, mother, wife, aunt, friend, and daughter. Anyone who knew Christy knew her warrior spirit and her heart of gold. Christy was fun-loving and never met a stranger.</p><p>Christy was welcomed home to heaven by her mama, Judy; her stepmom, Kathy; her father-in-law; and many grandparents.</p><p>Christy leaves behind a legacy through her dad, Joe Hay; her loving husband, Rance; her two daughters, Bailey Turner and Cydney Lopez; her four grandbabies, who were the joy of her life—Collynn, Logan, Laken, and Reese; her brother, Wesley Hay; and many nieces and nephews. And, of course, her beloved fur babies, Ellie and Dixie. Christy also leaves behind many friends whom she loved deeply.</p><p>Christy will be greatly missed but never forgotten. We know she is now healed and resting in the arms of her Savior.</p> <p>Christy Lynn Turner went home to be with her Lord and Savior on July 17, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas.</p><p>Christy was born on July 22, 1970, in Hobbs, New Mexico. She grew up in Hobbs, where she met lifelong friends and the love of her life, Rance Turner.</p><p>Christy and Rance were married on November 18, 1989. They later welcomed two daughters, Bailey and Cydney. She was a loving GiGi, mother, wife, aunt, friend, and daughter. Anyone who knew Christy knew her warrior spirit and her heart of gold. Christy was fun-loving and never met a stranger.</p><p>Christy was welcomed home to heaven by her mama, Judy; her stepmom, Kathy; her father-in-law; and many grandparents.</p><p>Christy leaves behind a legacy through her dad, Joe Hay; her loving husband, Rance; her two daughters, Bailey Turner and Cydney Lopez; her four grandbabies, who were the joy of her life—Collynn, Logan, Laken, and Reese; her brother, Wesley Hay; and many nieces and nephews. And, of course, her beloved fur babies, Ellie and Dixie. Christy also leaves behind many friends whom she loved deeply.</p><p>Christy will be greatly missed but never forgotten. We know she is now healed and resting in the arms of her Savior.</p> Christy Lynn Turner went home to be with her Lord and Savior on July 17, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas.

Christy was born on July 22, 1970, in Hobbs, New Mexico. She grew up in Hobbs, where she met lifelong friends and the love of her life, Rance Turner.

Christy and Rance were married on November 18, 1989. They later welcomed two daughters, Bailey and Cydney. She was a loving GiGi, mother, wife, aunt, friend, and daughter. Anyone who knew Christy knew her warrior spirit and her heart of gold. Christy was fun-loving and never met a stranger.

Christy was welcomed home to heaven by her mama, Judy; her stepmom, Kathy; her father-in-law; and many grandparents.

Christy leaves behind a legacy through her dad, Joe Hay; her loving husband, Rance; her two daughters, Bailey Turner and Cydney Lopez; her four grandbabies, who were the joy of her life—Collynn, Logan, Laken, and Reese; her brother, Wesley Hay; and many nieces and nephews. And, of course, her beloved fur babies, Ellie and Dixie. Christy also leaves behind many friends whom she loved deeply.

Christy will be greatly missed but never forgotten. We know she is now healed and resting in the arms of her Savior.

]]> Fri, 24 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 5029 56 a02d868b0fbe6cf662250060cd976a99 no Elijah: Praying with Power Trevor Hampton <p>Prayer is one of the greatest privileges God has given to His children, yet many believers struggle to experience its power. We know the right words to say, but often wonder why our prayers seem ineffective. James points us to Elijah, an ordinary man with the same struggles and weaknesses we have, yet God used his prayers to stop the rain, bring fire from heaven, and open the heavens once again. The difference was not that Elijah possessed extraordinary ability, but that he had an extraordinary dependence on God.</p> <p>Prayer is one of the greatest privileges God has given to His children, yet many believers struggle to experience its power. We know the right words to say, but often wonder why our prayers seem ineffective. James points us to Elijah, an ordinary man with the same struggles and weaknesses we have, yet God used his prayers to stop the rain, bring fire from heaven, and open the heavens once again. The difference was not that Elijah possessed extraordinary ability, but that he had an extraordinary dependence on God.</p> Prayer is one of the greatest privileges God has given to His children, yet many believers struggle to experience its power. We know the right words to say, but often wonder why our prayers seem ineffective. James points us to Elijah, an ordinary man with the same struggles and weaknesses we have, yet God used his prayers to stop the rain, bring fire from heaven, and open the heavens once again. The difference was not that Elijah possessed extraordinary ability, but that he had an extraordinary dependence on God.

]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1683 57 8a3277552fc666e895081eca7811c742 no The Gospel Wears Work Clothes Dan Preston <p>Work is a significant part of everyday life. It is where we spend much of our time, build relationships, face challenges, and carry responsibilities. Yet many people separate their faith from their work, treating Sunday as God's day and the rest of the week as their own. But God never intended our faith to be confined to the walls of the church. The gospel is meant to shape every area of our lives, including the way we work and the way we live under authority.</p> <p>Work is a significant part of everyday life. It is where we spend much of our time, build relationships, face challenges, and carry responsibilities. Yet many people separate their faith from their work, treating Sunday as God's day and the rest of the week as their own. But God never intended our faith to be confined to the walls of the church. The gospel is meant to shape every area of our lives, including the way we work and the way we live under authority.</p> Work is a significant part of everyday life. It is where we spend much of our time, build relationships, face challenges, and carry responsibilities. Yet many people separate their faith from their work, treating Sunday as God's day and the rest of the week as their own. But God never intended our faith to be confined to the walls of the church. The gospel is meant to shape every area of our lives, including the way we work and the way we live under authority.

]]> Sun, 26 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1547 58 2a7eb8d35cc368c1adc85a8153116dd7 no A Plan for Israel — Genesis 45 Summary of Genesis (64) Mike Gilbert Sun, 26 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2688 59 684a9c2474bf79f7de7acc3c72e87581 no Get Back Up Dan Preston <p>Life has a way of knocking us down. As children, we fall and get right back up, but as adults, the falls are often far deeper. Disappointments, failures, burdens, and heartache can leave us wondering if we have the strength to keep going. Hebrews 12 speaks directly to those moments. After pointing us to the examples of faith in chapter 11 and reminding us to endure God's loving discipline, the writer now shows us why getting back up matters. Our race is no longer just about us. The way we respond to hardship can strengthen, encourage, and even point others to Christ. God still has people He wants to impact through our faithfulness.</p> <p>Life has a way of knocking us down. As children, we fall and get right back up, but as adults, the falls are often far deeper. Disappointments, failures, burdens, and heartache can leave us wondering if we have the strength to keep going. Hebrews 12 speaks directly to those moments. After pointing us to the examples of faith in chapter 11 and reminding us to endure God's loving discipline, the writer now shows us why getting back up matters. Our race is no longer just about us. The way we respond to hardship can strengthen, encourage, and even point others to Christ. God still has people He wants to impact through our faithfulness.</p> Life has a way of knocking us down. As children, we fall and get right back up, but as adults, the falls are often far deeper. Disappointments, failures, burdens, and heartache can leave us wondering if we have the strength to keep going. Hebrews 12 speaks directly to those moments. After pointing us to the examples of faith in chapter 11 and reminding us to endure God's loving discipline, the writer now shows us why getting back up matters. Our race is no longer just about us. The way we respond to hardship can strengthen, encourage, and even point others to Christ. God still has people He wants to impact through our faithfulness.

]]> Sun, 26 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2219 60 8f62a42bdc8f6b2b10c34275b34c9dff no Training Through Trials David Wood <p>Training Through Trials explores how God uses difficulties, disappointments, and hardships to develop spiritual maturity in the lives of believers and those they mentor. Drawing from Job 23:10 and 1 Peter 4, this lesson teaches that trials are not obstacles to God's plan but essential tools for growth, strengthening faith, shaping Christlike character, and preparing us for greater usefulness. Participants will learn five biblical responses to suffering—expect trials, rejoice in them, exalt God through them, use them as opportunities to reach others, and remain faithful through them—discovering that God often does His greatest work in and through the fires of adversity.</p> <p>Training Through Trials explores how God uses difficulties, disappointments, and hardships to develop spiritual maturity in the lives of believers and those they mentor. Drawing from Job 23:10 and 1 Peter 4, this lesson teaches that trials are not obstacles to God's plan but essential tools for growth, strengthening faith, shaping Christlike character, and preparing us for greater usefulness. Participants will learn five biblical responses to suffering—expect trials, rejoice in them, exalt God through them, use them as opportunities to reach others, and remain faithful through them—discovering that God often does His greatest work in and through the fires of adversity.</p> Training Through Trials explores how God uses difficulties, disappointments, and hardships to develop spiritual maturity in the lives of believers and those they mentor. Drawing from Job 23:10 and 1 Peter 4, this lesson teaches that trials are not obstacles to God's plan but essential tools for growth, strengthening faith, shaping Christlike character, and preparing us for greater usefulness. Participants will learn five biblical responses to suffering—expect trials, rejoice in them, exalt God through them, use them as opportunities to reach others, and remain faithful through them—discovering that God often does His greatest work in and through the fires of adversity.

]]> Sun, 12 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1958 61 06eb4dd31a84a08befb1a6f38fa52175 no Genesis 43 Summary of Genesis (62) Mike Gilbert Sun, 12 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2575 62 ee36234a90dd1c46245b6a883b03bc25 no God’s House Rules <p>Every healthy family has rules because every healthy family has relationships worth protecting. In 1 Timothy 5, Paul reminds Timothy that the church is more than an organization. It is the family of God. Because we have one heavenly Father, the way we speak to, care for, and treat one another matters. Healthy churches happen when God's people learn to live together as the family He intended them to be.</p> <p>Every healthy family has rules because every healthy family has relationships worth protecting. In 1 Timothy 5, Paul reminds Timothy that the church is more than an organization. It is the family of God. Because we have one heavenly Father, the way we speak to, care for, and treat one another matters. Healthy churches happen when God's people learn to live together as the family He intended them to be.</p> Every healthy family has rules because every healthy family has relationships worth protecting. In 1 Timothy 5, Paul reminds Timothy that the church is more than an organization. It is the family of God. Because we have one heavenly Father, the way we speak to, care for, and treat one another matters. Healthy churches happen when God's people learn to live together as the family He intended them to be.

]]> Sun, 19 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2113 63 26739a215df63896a99590960709bbb2 no Christlike — Genesis 44 Summary of Genesis (63) Mike Gilbert Sun, 19 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2615 64 e6a87124282f0c8d90f013e052bda806 no David: Prayer of Repentance Keith Preston <p>Psalm 51 is one of the clearest pictures of genuine repentance in all of Scripture. After David's sin with Bathsheba and his attempts to hide it, God confronted him through the prophet Nathan. Rather than making excuses or blaming others, David took ownership of his sin, saying, "my transgressions" and "my sin." A prayer of repentance begins with honest confession. Tonight, we will look at three steps to a prayer of repentance.</p> <p>Psalm 51 is one of the clearest pictures of genuine repentance in all of Scripture. After David's sin with Bathsheba and his attempts to hide it, God confronted him through the prophet Nathan. Rather than making excuses or blaming others, David took ownership of his sin, saying, "my transgressions" and "my sin." A prayer of repentance begins with honest confession. Tonight, we will look at three steps to a prayer of repentance.</p> Psalm 51 is one of the clearest pictures of genuine repentance in all of Scripture. After David's sin with Bathsheba and his attempts to hide it, God confronted him through the prophet Nathan. Rather than making excuses or blaming others, David took ownership of his sin, saying, "my transgressions" and "my sin." A prayer of repentance begins with honest confession. Tonight, we will look at three steps to a prayer of repentance.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1353 65 3c30ee5a886fd7aa89330c6bc5497d72 no Your Life is Louder Than Your Words Dan Preston <p>Everyone of us is influencing someone, whether we realize it or not. People are watching how we respond to difficulties, how we treat others, and how we live our faith day by day. The question is not whether we have influence, but what kind of influence we are having. That is the heart of Paul's instruction to Timothy. Before Timothy was a pastor, he was a Christian, and his greatest testimony would not be found in his words but in his life. The same is true for each of us. Tonight, as we study this passage, we will discover three simple principles that will help us live lives that point others to Jesus Christ.</p> <p>Everyone of us is influencing someone, whether we realize it or not. People are watching how we respond to difficulties, how we treat others, and how we live our faith day by day. The question is not whether we have influence, but what kind of influence we are having. That is the heart of Paul's instruction to Timothy. Before Timothy was a pastor, he was a Christian, and his greatest testimony would not be found in his words but in his life. The same is true for each of us. Tonight, as we study this passage, we will discover three simple principles that will help us live lives that point others to Jesus Christ.</p> Everyone of us is influencing someone, whether we realize it or not. People are watching how we respond to difficulties, how we treat others, and how we live our faith day by day. The question is not whether we have influence, but what kind of influence we are having. That is the heart of Paul's instruction to Timothy. Before Timothy was a pastor, he was a Christian, and his greatest testimony would not be found in his words but in his life. The same is true for each of us. Tonight, as we study this passage, we will discover three simple principles that will help us live lives that point others to Jesus Christ.

]]> Sun, 12 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2281 66 4881dd4e7a1bf95104db834aa12095f4 no How to Finish Well Dan Preston <p>Many believers begin the Christian life with excitement but eventually face discouragement, hardship, and opposition that tempt them to give up. The believers who first received Hebrews faced those same struggles. After pointing us to the examples of faith in Hebrews 11, the writer challenges us with an important question: not how we start the race, but how we finish it. Hebrews 12 reminds us that the Christian life requires endurance and teaches us how to finish well.</p> <p>Many believers begin the Christian life with excitement but eventually face discouragement, hardship, and opposition that tempt them to give up. The believers who first received Hebrews faced those same struggles. After pointing us to the examples of faith in Hebrews 11, the writer challenges us with an important question: not how we start the race, but how we finish it. Hebrews 12 reminds us that the Christian life requires endurance and teaches us how to finish well.</p> Many believers begin the Christian life with excitement but eventually face discouragement, hardship, and opposition that tempt them to give up. The believers who first received Hebrews faced those same struggles. After pointing us to the examples of faith in Hebrews 11, the writer challenges us with an important question: not how we start the race, but how we finish it. Hebrews 12 reminds us that the Christian life requires endurance and teaches us how to finish well.

]]> Sun, 12 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2370 67 9abbc7224d948aac6261ec637802e19a no Early Church: Bold Prayer Trevor Hampton <p>Prayer reveals what we truly believe about God. If we believe God is sovereign and powerful, our prayers will reflect it. The early church faced opposition, threats, and uncertainty, yet instead of retreating in fear, they prayed with boldness and confidence in God. The question for us tonight is simple: Does the word bold accurately describe your prayer life?</p> <p>Prayer reveals what we truly believe about God. If we believe God is sovereign and powerful, our prayers will reflect it. The early church faced opposition, threats, and uncertainty, yet instead of retreating in fear, they prayed with boldness and confidence in God. The question for us tonight is simple: Does the word bold accurately describe your prayer life?</p> Prayer reveals what we truly believe about God. If we believe God is sovereign and powerful, our prayers will reflect it. The early church faced opposition, threats, and uncertainty, yet instead of retreating in fear, they prayed with boldness and confidence in God. The question for us tonight is simple: Does the word bold accurately describe your prayer life?

]]> Wed, 08 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1488 68 b5141b24e74af766aac5c9e40c8be700 no Enlarging Through Envisioning David Wood <p>One of the greatest ways we influence others is by seeing what God can make them before they see it themselves. This lesson emphasizes the power of encouragement, expectation, and godly vision in the lives of those around us. Whether in the home, the church, the workplace, or our friendships, every person is still becoming. Our words, prayers, example, and expectations can either discourage growth or help others believe that God can do more in and through their lives. This chapter challenges believers to be exhorters who affirm as well as evaluate, correct with love, and anticipate what God can do in others.</p> <p>One of the greatest ways we influence others is by seeing what God can make them before they see it themselves. This lesson emphasizes the power of encouragement, expectation, and godly vision in the lives of those around us. Whether in the home, the church, the workplace, or our friendships, every person is still becoming. Our words, prayers, example, and expectations can either discourage growth or help others believe that God can do more in and through their lives. This chapter challenges believers to be exhorters who affirm as well as evaluate, correct with love, and anticipate what God can do in others.</p> One of the greatest ways we influence others is by seeing what God can make them before they see it themselves. This lesson emphasizes the power of encouragement, expectation, and godly vision in the lives of those around us. Whether in the home, the church, the workplace, or our friendships, every person is still becoming. Our words, prayers, example, and expectations can either discourage growth or help others believe that God can do more in and through their lives. This chapter challenges believers to be exhorters who affirm as well as evaluate, correct with love, and anticipate what God can do in others.

]]> Sun, 28 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2115 69 fc91ab8c88c909ac2a1231ec1a6e32e7 no McFarland's To Czechia Deputation Video Thu, 01 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 272 70 706869262b5d8b835be769b950145d7d no Prophecy Update (June 28 2026) Mike Gilbert Sun, 28 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2807 71 630918f375d6817bf9689521973a3cd0 no A Christian God Can Use Dan Preston <p>Excellence never happens by accident. In every area of life, growth and maturity require intentional effort, yet many believers assume that spiritual maturity comes automatically with time. The truth is that no one drifts toward godliness. Spiritual growth is cultivated through a life intentionally surrendered to Christ. In 1 Timothy 4, Paul reminds Timothy that God desires to use believers who are growing in their walk with Him. These verses reveal the qualities that characterize a faithful servant of Christ and show us the kind of Christian God delights to use.</p> <p>Excellence never happens by accident. In every area of life, growth and maturity require intentional effort, yet many believers assume that spiritual maturity comes automatically with time. The truth is that no one drifts toward godliness. Spiritual growth is cultivated through a life intentionally surrendered to Christ. In 1 Timothy 4, Paul reminds Timothy that God desires to use believers who are growing in their walk with Him. These verses reveal the qualities that characterize a faithful servant of Christ and show us the kind of Christian God delights to use.</p> Excellence never happens by accident. In every area of life, growth and maturity require intentional effort, yet many believers assume that spiritual maturity comes automatically with time. The truth is that no one drifts toward godliness. Spiritual growth is cultivated through a life intentionally surrendered to Christ. In 1 Timothy 4, Paul reminds Timothy that God desires to use believers who are growing in their walk with Him. These verses reveal the qualities that characterize a faithful servant of Christ and show us the kind of Christian God delights to use.

]]> Sun, 05 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2717 72 fc271f0463af5787c86e12ce9c36e103 no Faith is the Victory Dan Preston <p>We naturally admire stories of victory and success, and that way of thinking can influence how we view the Christian life. Many assume that faith always leads to favorable outcomes, but Hebrews 11 shows us a different picture. Some believers experienced great victories, while others endured great suffering, yet God commended both. These closing verses remind us that faith is not measured by our circumstances but by our willingness to keep trusting God.</p> <p>We naturally admire stories of victory and success, and that way of thinking can influence how we view the Christian life. Many assume that faith always leads to favorable outcomes, but Hebrews 11 shows us a different picture. Some believers experienced great victories, while others endured great suffering, yet God commended both. These closing verses remind us that faith is not measured by our circumstances but by our willingness to keep trusting God.</p> We naturally admire stories of victory and success, and that way of thinking can influence how we view the Christian life. Many assume that faith always leads to favorable outcomes, but Hebrews 11 shows us a different picture. Some believers experienced great victories, while others endured great suffering, yet God commended both. These closing verses remind us that faith is not measured by our circumstances but by our willingness to keep trusting God.

]]> Sun, 05 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2210 73 fc8ed31852c7ade9758390314ae153b7 no Interceding for a Nation Zach Clay <p>America's greatest need is not political, economic, or social reform. America's greatest need is spiritual revival. In Exodus 32, Israel had turned away from God and deserved judgment, yet Moses stood in the gap and pleaded for mercy. Today, our nation needs Christians who are willing to do the same. As we look at Moses' example, we will see how we should pray for our nation with both earnestness and honesty.</p> <p>America's greatest need is not political, economic, or social reform. America's greatest need is spiritual revival. In Exodus 32, Israel had turned away from God and deserved judgment, yet Moses stood in the gap and pleaded for mercy. Today, our nation needs Christians who are willing to do the same. As we look at Moses' example, we will see how we should pray for our nation with both earnestness and honesty.</p> America's greatest need is not political, economic, or social reform. America's greatest need is spiritual revival. In Exodus 32, Israel had turned away from God and deserved judgment, yet Moses stood in the gap and pleaded for mercy. Today, our nation needs Christians who are willing to do the same. As we look at Moses' example, we will see how we should pray for our nation with both earnestness and honesty.

]]> Wed, 01 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 951 74 1547447e85f2dc50f146bf1626f00ccc no Preparation for the Journey David Wood <p>One of the greatest dangers in the Christian life is believing that a fresh start is all we need. Good intentions may begin the journey, but they will not sustain a lifelong walk of faith. Ezra understood this as he prepared to lead God's people on a difficult journey from Babylon to Jerusalem. Before taking another step, he stopped at the River Ahava because he knew that preparation determines perseverance. Many start well, but few finish well. Perhaps tonight is your River Ahava, a place where God is calling you to pause and prepare your heart before moving forward.</p> <p>One of the greatest dangers in the Christian life is believing that a fresh start is all we need. Good intentions may begin the journey, but they will not sustain a lifelong walk of faith. Ezra understood this as he prepared to lead God's people on a difficult journey from Babylon to Jerusalem. Before taking another step, he stopped at the River Ahava because he knew that preparation determines perseverance. Many start well, but few finish well. Perhaps tonight is your River Ahava, a place where God is calling you to pause and prepare your heart before moving forward.</p> One of the greatest dangers in the Christian life is believing that a fresh start is all we need. Good intentions may begin the journey, but they will not sustain a lifelong walk of faith. Ezra understood this as he prepared to lead God's people on a difficult journey from Babylon to Jerusalem. Before taking another step, he stopped at the River Ahava because he knew that preparation determines perseverance. Many start well, but few finish well. Perhaps tonight is your River Ahava, a place where God is calling you to pause and prepare your heart before moving forward.

]]> Sun, 28 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2156 75 273f310d0fb25acd04caaa95329bbcd8 no Overcoming Procrastination David Wood <p>One of the greatest obstacles to spiritual growth is procrastination. God speaks, leads, and opens doors, yet too often we delay instead of obey. Following the completion of the Temple, nearly fifty-eight years passed before another major group returned from Babylon to Jerusalem. Many had grown comfortable where they were and were unwilling to take the next step God had for them. Ezra, however, moved forward. How did Ezra overcome procrastination and make meaningful spiritual progress?</p> <p>One of the greatest obstacles to spiritual growth is procrastination. God speaks, leads, and opens doors, yet too often we delay instead of obey. Following the completion of the Temple, nearly fifty-eight years passed before another major group returned from Babylon to Jerusalem. Many had grown comfortable where they were and were unwilling to take the next step God had for them. Ezra, however, moved forward. How did Ezra overcome procrastination and make meaningful spiritual progress?</p> One of the greatest obstacles to spiritual growth is procrastination. God speaks, leads, and opens doors, yet too often we delay instead of obey. Following the completion of the Temple, nearly fifty-eight years passed before another major group returned from Babylon to Jerusalem. Many had grown comfortable where they were and were unwilling to take the next step God had for them. Ezra, however, moved forward. How did Ezra overcome procrastination and make meaningful spiritual progress?

]]> Sun, 28 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1727 76 f6ee20a0a9347d2195814cada13e6d3f no Praying in Crisis Keith Roberts <p>By the time 2 Kings 19 begins, Hezekiah is facing one of the greatest crises of his life. The mighty Assyrian Empire had already conquered much of Judah and now stood at Jerusalem's doorstep. Their king, Sennacherib, not only threatened God's people but openly mocked the God of Israel. Though Hezekiah had faithfully sought to honor the Lord, he discovered that living for God does not exempt anyone from crisis. Faced with a situation beyond human ability, Hezekiah did the only thing he could do: he took the crisis into the presence of God. In this passage, Hezekiah teaches that crisis should not drive God's people from Him in fear; it should drive them to Him in prayer.</p> <p>By the time 2 Kings 19 begins, Hezekiah is facing one of the greatest crises of his life. The mighty Assyrian Empire had already conquered much of Judah and now stood at Jerusalem's doorstep. Their king, Sennacherib, not only threatened God's people but openly mocked the God of Israel. Though Hezekiah had faithfully sought to honor the Lord, he discovered that living for God does not exempt anyone from crisis. Faced with a situation beyond human ability, Hezekiah did the only thing he could do: he took the crisis into the presence of God. In this passage, Hezekiah teaches that crisis should not drive God's people from Him in fear; it should drive them to Him in prayer.</p> By the time 2 Kings 19 begins, Hezekiah is facing one of the greatest crises of his life. The mighty Assyrian Empire had already conquered much of Judah and now stood at Jerusalem's doorstep. Their king, Sennacherib, not only threatened God's people but openly mocked the God of Israel. Though Hezekiah had faithfully sought to honor the Lord, he discovered that living for God does not exempt anyone from crisis. Faced with a situation beyond human ability, Hezekiah did the only thing he could do: he took the crisis into the presence of God. In this passage, Hezekiah teaches that crisis should not drive God's people from Him in fear; it should drive them to Him in prayer.

]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1748 77 8d0f148415ed85787159122949bccc6f no God Can Do More Kolin Hendrix <p>Bethany’s own missionary, Bro. Kolin Hendrix, gives a detailed report of the mission work he and his family are performing in Liskeard, a small town located in Cornwall, England.</p> <p>Bethany’s own missionary, Bro. Kolin Hendrix, gives a detailed report of the mission work he and his family are performing in Liskeard, a small town located in Cornwall, England.</p> Bethany’s own missionary, Bro. Kolin Hendrix, gives a detailed report of the mission work he and his family are performing in Liskeard, a small town located in Cornwall, England.

]]> Sun, 21 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3092 78 c252a1a3894d44ba1ae80b2b5874d743 no The Secret Weapon of The Believer Jim Preston Sun, 21 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2311 79 db42c1002895db4a7b8786b96679262d no Will You Be Healed? Kolin Hendrix Sun, 21 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2182 80 1173ef6be36b2987975c2d6922af734a no Separate Me Barnabas and Saul McFarland Missionary Commissioning Service Jim Preston Wed, 17 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 4078 81 eeca7e7562360c29958ee834646374f8 no More Than a Week 2026 Youth Camp Testimonies Trevor Hampton, Various Speakers <p><br></p> <p><br></p>

]]> Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 4844 82 945267742e8a905bdf62f15db6c6615e no Prophecy Update (June 14 2026) Mike Gilbert Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2883 83 16cf95525b7ed45bfb27b62a58884008 no Serving the Lord Jaron McFarland Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2531 84 81a56adcf491202a051a34501251a75b no Solomon: Asking for Wisdom Jeryl Mason <p>Imagine if God came to you today and said, “Ask what I shall give thee.” What would you choose? Wealth? Success? A long life? When God gave Solomon that opportunity, he asked for wisdom instead. His request reveals a powerful truth: what we ask for often reveals what we value most. As we look at his choice, we’ll discover why wisdom was worth more than anything else and how we can seek it in our own lives through its nature, its worth, and the way to obtain it.</p> <p>Imagine if God came to you today and said, “Ask what I shall give thee.” What would you choose? Wealth? Success? A long life? When God gave Solomon that opportunity, he asked for wisdom instead. His request reveals a powerful truth: what we ask for often reveals what we value most. As we look at his choice, we’ll discover why wisdom was worth more than anything else and how we can seek it in our own lives through its nature, its worth, and the way to obtain it.</p> Imagine if God came to you today and said, “Ask what I shall give thee.” What would you choose? Wealth? Success? A long life? When God gave Solomon that opportunity, he asked for wisdom instead. His request reveals a powerful truth: what we ask for often reveals what we value most. As we look at his choice, we’ll discover why wisdom was worth more than anything else and how we can seek it in our own lives through its nature, its worth, and the way to obtain it.

]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2042 85 d42402abec2e072dd923d1553d712e18 no One Week Can Change Everything Dan Preston <p>How many of us can point back to a single week that changed our life forever? Most weeks pass quietly, but every so often one comes that marks a turning point, when life is redirected in a way that is only fully understood in hindsight. Tomorrow, a group of teenagers and sponsors will leave for youth camp with different expectations and hopes, but the possibility remains that this could be one of those defining weeks. Scripture reminds us that God is still in the business of changing lives, and Mark 5 shows us a man whose life was completely transformed by an encounter with Jesus.</p> <p>How many of us can point back to a single week that changed our life forever? Most weeks pass quietly, but every so often one comes that marks a turning point, when life is redirected in a way that is only fully understood in hindsight. Tomorrow, a group of teenagers and sponsors will leave for youth camp with different expectations and hopes, but the possibility remains that this could be one of those defining weeks. Scripture reminds us that God is still in the business of changing lives, and Mark 5 shows us a man whose life was completely transformed by an encounter with Jesus.</p> How many of us can point back to a single week that changed our life forever? Most weeks pass quietly, but every so often one comes that marks a turning point, when life is redirected in a way that is only fully understood in hindsight. Tomorrow, a group of teenagers and sponsors will leave for youth camp with different expectations and hopes, but the possibility remains that this could be one of those defining weeks. Scripture reminds us that God is still in the business of changing lives, and Mark 5 shows us a man whose life was completely transformed by an encounter with Jesus.

]]> Sun, 07 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2172 86 ae144a4c6e4f311c42949ab44c2bab05 no Genesis 42 Summary of Genesis (61) Mike Gilbert Sun, 07 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2571 87 8f20c275124e96bfc75cb6387a87bf5a no Moses: A Man of Faith Dan Preston <p>Our lives are often shaped by a few critical decisions. Looking back, we can usually identify moments when one choice changed the course of everything that followed. In our text, we meet a man whose life was marked by such decisions. Moses repeatedly chose faith when other options seemed easier, safer, and more attractive. His story reminds us that every believer must choose whether to trust God and follow Him by faith. To the Jewish people, Moses was the greatest human figure in their history. "And there arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face" (Deuteronomy 34:10) When Hebrews tells Moses' story, the focus is not on his miracles or leadership, but on his faith. This morning, we will look at four characteristics of a man who lived by faith and discover what his example teaches us about trusting God today.</p> <p>Our lives are often shaped by a few critical decisions. Looking back, we can usually identify moments when one choice changed the course of everything that followed. In our text, we meet a man whose life was marked by such decisions. Moses repeatedly chose faith when other options seemed easier, safer, and more attractive. His story reminds us that every believer must choose whether to trust God and follow Him by faith. To the Jewish people, Moses was the greatest human figure in their history. "And there arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face" (Deuteronomy 34:10) When Hebrews tells Moses' story, the focus is not on his miracles or leadership, but on his faith. This morning, we will look at four characteristics of a man who lived by faith and discover what his example teaches us about trusting God today.</p> Our lives are often shaped by a few critical decisions. Looking back, we can usually identify moments when one choice changed the course of everything that followed. In our text, we meet a man whose life was marked by such decisions. Moses repeatedly chose faith when other options seemed easier, safer, and more attractive. His story reminds us that every believer must choose whether to trust God and follow Him by faith. To the Jewish people, Moses was the greatest human figure in their history. "And there arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face" (Deuteronomy 34:10) When Hebrews tells Moses' story, the focus is not on his miracles or leadership, but on his faith. This morning, we will look at four characteristics of a man who lived by faith and discover what his example teaches us about trusting God today.

]]> Sun, 07 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2475 88 95534e10eaba94a4608b30caf7e1ac65 no Where Bad Theology Comes From Dan Preston <p>People often believe things about God simply because they have heard them repeated enough times. Statements may sound spiritual or convincing, but that does not necessarily make them true. That is why it is so important for believers to know what God’s Word actually says. What we believe about God shapes the way we live. False teaching often sounds spiritual and may even contain elements of truth, but somewhere along the way, something has been distorted or added to what God has said. That is why believers must learn to recognize truth from error and remain grounded in sound doctrine.</p> <p>People often believe things about God simply because they have heard them repeated enough times. Statements may sound spiritual or convincing, but that does not necessarily make them true. That is why it is so important for believers to know what God’s Word actually says. What we believe about God shapes the way we live. False teaching often sounds spiritual and may even contain elements of truth, but somewhere along the way, something has been distorted or added to what God has said. That is why believers must learn to recognize truth from error and remain grounded in sound doctrine.</p> People often believe things about God simply because they have heard them repeated enough times. Statements may sound spiritual or convincing, but that does not necessarily make them true. That is why it is so important for believers to know what God’s Word actually says. What we believe about God shapes the way we live. False teaching often sounds spiritual and may even contain elements of truth, but somewhere along the way, something has been distorted or added to what God has said. That is why believers must learn to recognize truth from error and remain grounded in sound doctrine.

]]> Sun, 31 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2030 89 5181d7d135221d1818f5a0e15324ebf4 no Genesis 41 Summary of Genesis (60) & Israel in the News Mike Gilbert Sun, 31 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2698 90 1e037d88a4a3d6a9c9bb53d0194bfe4c no The Ingredients of a Life of Faith Dan Preston <p>Many people have different ideas about what it takes to please God. Some believe God is pleased by good works, religious activity, effort, or sincerity. But Hebrews 11:6 makes it clear: “But without faith it is impossible to please him...” Faith is not simply optimism, emotion, or wishful thinking; it is confident trust in God and in what He has said. There are really only two ways to live: by sight or by faith. Most people live by what they can see, understand, and control, but biblical faith chooses to trust God even without having all the answers. Through Abraham’s life we see what real faith requires. Faith is not easy or comfortable, but it is the only way to live a life that truly pleases God.</p> <p>Many people have different ideas about what it takes to please God. Some believe God is pleased by good works, religious activity, effort, or sincerity. But Hebrews 11:6 makes it clear: “But without faith it is impossible to please him...” Faith is not simply optimism, emotion, or wishful thinking; it is confident trust in God and in what He has said. There are really only two ways to live: by sight or by faith. Most people live by what they can see, understand, and control, but biblical faith chooses to trust God even without having all the answers. Through Abraham’s life we see what real faith requires. Faith is not easy or comfortable, but it is the only way to live a life that truly pleases God.</p> Many people have different ideas about what it takes to please God. Some believe God is pleased by good works, religious activity, effort, or sincerity. But Hebrews 11:6 makes it clear: “But without faith it is impossible to please him...” Faith is not simply optimism, emotion, or wishful thinking; it is confident trust in God and in what He has said. There are really only two ways to live: by sight or by faith. Most people live by what they can see, understand, and control, but biblical faith chooses to trust God even without having all the answers. Through Abraham’s life we see what real faith requires. Faith is not easy or comfortable, but it is the only way to live a life that truly pleases God.

]]> Sun, 31 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2097 91 c78da880ca2148583b336b1b8f44ec7c no Striving Together in Prayer Dan Preston <p>Prayer is not meant to be a shallow routine or casual habit. In Romans 15:30, Paul describes prayer as something we are to “strive” in together. That word speaks of effort, labor, and spiritual struggle. Real prayer is spiritual work. And not only are we called to pray, we are called to pray together. Prayer was never meant to be only an individual practice, but something God’s people engage in collectively. We are not simply individuals who pray, we are meant to be a church that prays.</p> <p>Prayer is not meant to be a shallow routine or casual habit. In Romans 15:30, Paul describes prayer as something we are to “strive” in together. That word speaks of effort, labor, and spiritual struggle. Real prayer is spiritual work. And not only are we called to pray, we are called to pray together. Prayer was never meant to be only an individual practice, but something God’s people engage in collectively. We are not simply individuals who pray, we are meant to be a church that prays.</p> Prayer is not meant to be a shallow routine or casual habit. In Romans 15:30, Paul describes prayer as something we are to “strive” in together. That word speaks of effort, labor, and spiritual struggle. Real prayer is spiritual work. And not only are we called to pray, we are called to pray together. Prayer was never meant to be only an individual practice, but something God’s people engage in collectively. We are not simply individuals who pray, we are meant to be a church that prays.

]]> Wed, 27 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1908 92 a1c67048c5d2071099d16c14b77bc53d no What Are You Remembered For? Dan Preston <p>Every person will be remembered for something. Long after possessions and accomplishments fade, what remains is a person’s character, testimony, and the kind of life they lived. As we reflect during Memorial Day weekend, we are reminded that people are remembered not only for how they died, but for how they lived. The question is not whether we will be remembered, but what we will be remembered for.</p> <p>Every person will be remembered for something. Long after possessions and accomplishments fade, what remains is a person’s character, testimony, and the kind of life they lived. As we reflect during Memorial Day weekend, we are reminded that people are remembered not only for how they died, but for how they lived. The question is not whether we will be remembered, but what we will be remembered for.</p> Every person will be remembered for something. Long after possessions and accomplishments fade, what remains is a person’s character, testimony, and the kind of life they lived. As we reflect during Memorial Day weekend, we are reminded that people are remembered not only for how they died, but for how they lived. The question is not whether we will be remembered, but what we will be remembered for.

]]> Sun, 24 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1835 93 eaaf2eb5229764cb0ffe3aabf7e1c8cb no Genesis 40 Summary of Genesis (59) & Israel in the News Mike Gilbert Sun, 24 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2683 94 60223719cb40f9ab5250af7b5b62fd56 no What Faith Is and What Faith Does Dan Preston <p>Faith is a part of every person’s life. Every day, people place their trust in something or someone, whether in the physical world or in matters of eternity. The issue is not whether a person has faith, but where that faith is placed. The Bible makes it clear that faith is only as trustworthy as its object, and salvation is found in Jesus Christ alone.</p> <p>Faith is a part of every person’s life. Every day, people place their trust in something or someone, whether in the physical world or in matters of eternity. The issue is not whether a person has faith, but where that faith is placed. The Bible makes it clear that faith is only as trustworthy as its object, and salvation is found in Jesus Christ alone.</p> Faith is a part of every person’s life. Every day, people place their trust in something or someone, whether in the physical world or in matters of eternity. The issue is not whether a person has faith, but where that faith is placed. The Bible makes it clear that faith is only as trustworthy as its object, and salvation is found in Jesus Christ alone.

]]> Sun, 24 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2089 95 91cafca49ce72cd5cd80b9c4ed327a8d no “Lord, Teach Us to Pray” Dan Preston <p>When the disciples had that opportunity, they did not ask Jesus to teach them how to preach, lead, or perform miracles. Instead, after watching His consistent and powerful prayer life, they simply said in Luke 11:1, “Lord, teach us to pray.” Their request reveals that prayer is not something we naturally understand, but something we must learn. Many believers know about prayer, yet struggle to develop a meaningful and consistent prayer life. The encouraging truth is that Jesus was willing to teach His disciples, and He still desires to teach us today.</p> <p>When the disciples had that opportunity, they did not ask Jesus to teach them how to preach, lead, or perform miracles. Instead, after watching His consistent and powerful prayer life, they simply said in Luke 11:1, “Lord, teach us to pray.” Their request reveals that prayer is not something we naturally understand, but something we must learn. Many believers know about prayer, yet struggle to develop a meaningful and consistent prayer life. The encouraging truth is that Jesus was willing to teach His disciples, and He still desires to teach us today.</p> When the disciples had that opportunity, they did not ask Jesus to teach them how to preach, lead, or perform miracles. Instead, after watching His consistent and powerful prayer life, they simply said in Luke 11:1, “Lord, teach us to pray.” Their request reveals that prayer is not something we naturally understand, but something we must learn. Many believers know about prayer, yet struggle to develop a meaningful and consistent prayer life. The encouraging truth is that Jesus was willing to teach His disciples, and He still desires to teach us today.

]]> Wed, 20 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2141 96 d3344099eaf06149de15d3d9a3f3110e no What Is Missions? Jaron McFarland Sun, 17 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2698 97 00b931f44b46bf83f9b8d615c5eab645 no He Took the Form of a Servant and was “Exalted” Summary of Genesis (58) Mike Gilbert Sun, 17 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2656 98 3462feef8c58da9e0f3b9b196b62efa9 no Learning to Love Preaching David Wood <p>From an early age, many people become familiar with preaching, yet familiarity can often lead to distraction, indifference, or even resistance. In a culture driven by entertainment and shortened attention spans, many churches have softened or reshaped preaching to appeal to what people want to hear rather than what they need to hear. But Scripture gives a different command. “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” (2 Timothy 4:1-4) Paul charged Timothy to “preach the word,” even when people would resist sound doctrine and seek messages that pleased their ears. Biblical preaching is not designed merely to entertain or comfort us, but to confront, correct, and transform us through the truth of God’s Word. In Ezra 6, the people of God learned to value the preaching of the Word, and it produced powerful results in their lives.</p> <p>From an early age, many people become familiar with preaching, yet familiarity can often lead to distraction, indifference, or even resistance. In a culture driven by entertainment and shortened attention spans, many churches have softened or reshaped preaching to appeal to what people want to hear rather than what they need to hear. But Scripture gives a different command. “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” (2 Timothy 4:1-4) Paul charged Timothy to “preach the word,” even when people would resist sound doctrine and seek messages that pleased their ears. Biblical preaching is not designed merely to entertain or comfort us, but to confront, correct, and transform us through the truth of God’s Word. In Ezra 6, the people of God learned to value the preaching of the Word, and it produced powerful results in their lives.</p> From an early age, many people become familiar with preaching, yet familiarity can often lead to distraction, indifference, or even resistance. In a culture driven by entertainment and shortened attention spans, many churches have softened or reshaped preaching to appeal to what people want to hear rather than what they need to hear. But Scripture gives a different command. “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” (2 Timothy 4:1-4) Paul charged Timothy to “preach the word,” even when people would resist sound doctrine and seek messages that pleased their ears. Biblical preaching is not designed merely to entertain or comfort us, but to confront, correct, and transform us through the truth of God’s Word. In Ezra 6, the people of God learned to value the preaching of the Word, and it produced powerful results in their lives.

]]> Sun, 17 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2514 99 53300334b755ccd1420249b0460afdcf no Through Samaria Keith Roberts <p>John 4:4 may seem like a simple travel detail, but it reveals a powerful truth. The Bible says, “And he must needs go through Samaria.” Jesus was not merely passing through Samaria on His way to Galilee. He was moving according to divine purpose. There was a woman who needed grace, a city ready to hear the Gospel, and disciples who needed to learn the heart of God. While others avoided Samaria, Jesus saw it as a divine appointment.</p> <p>John 4:4 may seem like a simple travel detail, but it reveals a powerful truth. The Bible says, “And he must needs go through Samaria.” Jesus was not merely passing through Samaria on His way to Galilee. He was moving according to divine purpose. There was a woman who needed grace, a city ready to hear the Gospel, and disciples who needed to learn the heart of God. While others avoided Samaria, Jesus saw it as a divine appointment.</p> John 4:4 may seem like a simple travel detail, but it reveals a powerful truth. The Bible says, “And he must needs go through Samaria.” Jesus was not merely passing through Samaria on His way to Galilee. He was moving according to divine purpose. There was a woman who needed grace, a city ready to hear the Gospel, and disciples who needed to learn the heart of God. While others avoided Samaria, Jesus saw it as a divine appointment.

]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1677 100 ac10f747ff64cc3bc63722b8bc88d0a8 no Three Duties of Every Church Member Jeff Copes <p>We are to draw near to God; We are to hold fast to our faith in God; & We are to consider one another.</p> <p>We are to draw near to God; We are to hold fast to our faith in God; & We are to consider one another.</p> We are to draw near to God; We are to hold fast to our faith in God; & We are to consider one another.

]]> Sun, 10 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2254 101 ced1a59aa1549f0ac1013bd0c8b23881 no Are You Satisfied? Jeff Copes <p>You need to be saved; You need to live like you’re saved; & You need to help others be saved.</p> <p>You need to be saved; You need to live like you’re saved; & You need to help others be saved.</p> You need to be saved; You need to live like you’re saved; & You need to help others be saved.

]]> Sun, 10 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1811 102 fe0a9ad9f188e0fcb91c3d0c9005018a no Take Heed Lest Ye Fall Dan Preston <p>We have all seen it happen when someone who seemed strong, steady, and faithful suddenly falls. And when they do, the damage is never small. It affects families, shakes churches, and brings reproach upon the name of Jesus Christ. Moments like these remind us of a sobering truth: this can happen to anyone. That is why we must not focus on the failure of others, but examine our own hearts. Our text tonight is not a call to fear, but to humility, vigilance, and a guarded walk with God.</p> <p>We have all seen it happen when someone who seemed strong, steady, and faithful suddenly falls. And when they do, the damage is never small. It affects families, shakes churches, and brings reproach upon the name of Jesus Christ. Moments like these remind us of a sobering truth: this can happen to anyone. That is why we must not focus on the failure of others, but examine our own hearts. Our text tonight is not a call to fear, but to humility, vigilance, and a guarded walk with God.</p> We have all seen it happen when someone who seemed strong, steady, and faithful suddenly falls. And when they do, the damage is never small. It affects families, shakes churches, and brings reproach upon the name of Jesus Christ. Moments like these remind us of a sobering truth: this can happen to anyone. That is why we must not focus on the failure of others, but examine our own hearts. Our text tonight is not a call to fear, but to humility, vigilance, and a guarded walk with God.

]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1819 103 fd614c1e094b3ff5a1ad207775c1e5ef no The Redemption Story Sun, 01 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 411 104 173032e351cdd9f1eeb3a2e561c64dd4 no The Truth Worth Building Your Life On Graduation Recognition Service Dan Preston <p>We are living in a time when truth is often treated as something flexible, shaped to fit personal views and culture. That mindset has even crept into the church, where truth is sometimes softened or adjusted instead of firmly upheld. But the church is defined by its relationship to the truth, not by anything else. Paul reminds us that the church is the pillar and ground of the truth in a shifting world. And at the center of that truth is not just a set of beliefs, but a Person, Jesus Christ.</p> <p>We are living in a time when truth is often treated as something flexible, shaped to fit personal views and culture. That mindset has even crept into the church, where truth is sometimes softened or adjusted instead of firmly upheld. But the church is defined by its relationship to the truth, not by anything else. Paul reminds us that the church is the pillar and ground of the truth in a shifting world. And at the center of that truth is not just a set of beliefs, but a Person, Jesus Christ.</p> We are living in a time when truth is often treated as something flexible, shaped to fit personal views and culture. That mindset has even crept into the church, where truth is sometimes softened or adjusted instead of firmly upheld. But the church is defined by its relationship to the truth, not by anything else. Paul reminds us that the church is the pillar and ground of the truth in a shifting world. And at the center of that truth is not just a set of beliefs, but a Person, Jesus Christ.

]]> Sun, 03 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2854 105 f0cf81b4a9561afcdc848353c80e3f22 no Whose Honor Are You Seeking? Jeryl Mason <p>In this message, the temporary honor of men is weighed against the eternal honor of God. The honor of men is flattering, fleeting, and even fatal because it does nothing about sin. However, the honor of God transforms sinners into His children; clothes them in His righteousness; establishes them as His kings and priests; and makes them into His eternal heirs.</p> <p>In this message, the temporary honor of men is weighed against the eternal honor of God. The honor of men is flattering, fleeting, and even fatal because it does nothing about sin. However, the honor of God transforms sinners into His children; clothes them in His righteousness; establishes them as His kings and priests; and makes them into His eternal heirs.</p> In this message, the temporary honor of men is weighed against the eternal honor of God. The honor of men is flattering, fleeting, and even fatal because it does nothing about sin. However, the honor of God transforms sinners into His children; clothes them in His righteousness; establishes them as His kings and priests; and makes them into His eternal heirs.

]]> Sun, 03 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2122 106 34f31c291c53c562639730359263fcb2 no The Danger of Playing Church Dan Preston <p>This morning, we come to the final and most sobering warning in Hebrews. After showing that Jesus is better than all, the writer gives a clear caution: it is possible to hear the truth, be around the truth, and even appear to follow it, yet never truly be saved. When confronted with the gospel, there are only two responses, belief or rejection. There is no middle ground. This passage calls us to examine ourselves, because one day what is real will be revealed.</p> <p>This morning, we come to the final and most sobering warning in Hebrews. After showing that Jesus is better than all, the writer gives a clear caution: it is possible to hear the truth, be around the truth, and even appear to follow it, yet never truly be saved. When confronted with the gospel, there are only two responses, belief or rejection. There is no middle ground. This passage calls us to examine ourselves, because one day what is real will be revealed.</p> This morning, we come to the final and most sobering warning in Hebrews. After showing that Jesus is better than all, the writer gives a clear caution: it is possible to hear the truth, be around the truth, and even appear to follow it, yet never truly be saved. When confronted with the gospel, there are only two responses, belief or rejection. There is no middle ground. This passage calls us to examine ourselves, because one day what is real will be revealed.

]]> Sun, 03 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2443 107 23d61ff5b91348b0efa2ecc5355c96c7 no And You Hath He Quickened Walter Clark Wed, 29 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1555 108 528e9a80e0fa47b525072cf49d96cfab no Is Jesus Worth It to You? Larry Chappell Sun, 26 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2581 109 97c1c40abed5819ea45d7c47f27ae04a no Let Thy House Be Like the House of Pharez; & The One Who Broke Forth Summary of Genesis (57) Mike Gilbert Sun, 26 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2492 110 8fdbdab5cc69be67ccf67e0a83ef8929 no God Is Able to Encourage Larry Chappell <p>“We shall go on to the end...whatever the cost may be. We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender.” —Winston Churchill; “Never give in—never, never, never, never, in nothing great or small, large or petty, never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.” —Winston Churchill; “Fits of depression come over the most of us. Usually cheerful as we may be, we must at intervals be cast down. The strong are not always vigorous, the wise not always ready, the brave not always courageous, and the joyous not always happy.” —C.H. Spurgeon; When we hear about famous people battling discouragement, it can be surprising, yet even David, the giant killer and a man after God’s own heart, walked through deep valleys. While the word depression is not in Scripture, the experience is seen in words like despair and heaviness, all familiar to David. But there is good news, God is able to encourage. So the question is this, what do you do when your heart is discouraged?</p> <p>“We shall go on to the end...whatever the cost may be. We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender.” —Winston Churchill; “Never give in—never, never, never, never, in nothing great or small, large or petty, never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.” —Winston Churchill; “Fits of depression come over the most of us. Usually cheerful as we may be, we must at intervals be cast down. The strong are not always vigorous, the wise not always ready, the brave not always courageous, and the joyous not always happy.” —C.H. Spurgeon; When we hear about famous people battling discouragement, it can be surprising, yet even David, the giant killer and a man after God’s own heart, walked through deep valleys. While the word depression is not in Scripture, the experience is seen in words like despair and heaviness, all familiar to David. But there is good news, God is able to encourage. So the question is this, what do you do when your heart is discouraged?</p> “We shall go on to the end...whatever the cost may be. We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender.” —Winston Churchill; “Never give in—never, never, never, never, in nothing great or small, large or petty, never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.” —Winston Churchill; “Fits of depression come over the most of us. Usually cheerful as we may be, we must at intervals be cast down. The strong are not always vigorous, the wise not always ready, the brave not always courageous, and the joyous not always happy.” —C.H. Spurgeon; When we hear about famous people battling discouragement, it can be surprising, yet even David, the giant killer and a man after God’s own heart, walked through deep valleys. While the word depression is not in Scripture, the experience is seen in words like despair and heaviness, all familiar to David. But there is good news, God is able to encourage. So the question is this, what do you do when your heart is discouraged?

]]> Sun, 26 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2838 111 d3aae8dced83765af32b65c885833d08 no Spirit-Directed Prayer Trevor Hampton <p>Prayer is not meant to be shaped by personal preference, comfort, or human reasoning, but by the leading of the Spirit of God. Scripture makes this clear: what seems right in human thinking can lead the wrong way, while the Spirit gives life and direction that the flesh cannot provide. The challenge is not simply whether prayer is happening, but what is guiding it. Just as direction is sometimes resisted when it does not align with personal desires or understanding, the same struggle can appear in the prayer life. The question then becomes whether prayers are being formed by what feels right in the moment, or by a willingness to trust that God knows what He is doing.</p> <p>Prayer is not meant to be shaped by personal preference, comfort, or human reasoning, but by the leading of the Spirit of God. Scripture makes this clear: what seems right in human thinking can lead the wrong way, while the Spirit gives life and direction that the flesh cannot provide. The challenge is not simply whether prayer is happening, but what is guiding it. Just as direction is sometimes resisted when it does not align with personal desires or understanding, the same struggle can appear in the prayer life. The question then becomes whether prayers are being formed by what feels right in the moment, or by a willingness to trust that God knows what He is doing.</p> Prayer is not meant to be shaped by personal preference, comfort, or human reasoning, but by the leading of the Spirit of God. Scripture makes this clear: what seems right in human thinking can lead the wrong way, while the Spirit gives life and direction that the flesh cannot provide. The challenge is not simply whether prayer is happening, but what is guiding it. Just as direction is sometimes resisted when it does not align with personal desires or understanding, the same struggle can appear in the prayer life. The question then becomes whether prayers are being formed by what feels right in the moment, or by a willingness to trust that God knows what He is doing.

]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1441 112 1dd84d12ad3817d1993c8d023b2f2b17 no Be Courageous David Wood <p>Life has a way of placing us in moments where we know what God has said, yet everything around us makes obedience feel difficult. Sometimes it is not rebellion that holds us back, but hesitation, fear, or the weight of past delays. We find ourselves standing at the edge of what God has called us to do, wondering if now is the right time, if we are ready, or if it is even worth it. Ezra 5 brings us into one of those moments, a time when God’s people had every reason to stay still, yet chose instead to move forward. It is a reminder that following God requires courage, not just at the beginning, but at every stage of obedience.</p> <p>Life has a way of placing us in moments where we know what God has said, yet everything around us makes obedience feel difficult. Sometimes it is not rebellion that holds us back, but hesitation, fear, or the weight of past delays. We find ourselves standing at the edge of what God has called us to do, wondering if now is the right time, if we are ready, or if it is even worth it. Ezra 5 brings us into one of those moments, a time when God’s people had every reason to stay still, yet chose instead to move forward. It is a reminder that following God requires courage, not just at the beginning, but at every stage of obedience.</p> Life has a way of placing us in moments where we know what God has said, yet everything around us makes obedience feel difficult. Sometimes it is not rebellion that holds us back, but hesitation, fear, or the weight of past delays. We find ourselves standing at the edge of what God has called us to do, wondering if now is the right time, if we are ready, or if it is even worth it. Ezra 5 brings us into one of those moments, a time when God’s people had every reason to stay still, yet chose instead to move forward. It is a reminder that following God requires courage, not just at the beginning, but at every stage of obedience.

]]> Sun, 19 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2324 113 37c0681fae7c094d5fd3c088dc0348f2 no Joseph: Dreamer, Servant, Ruler Summary of Genesis (56) Mike Gilbert Sun, 19 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2751 114 998adbbe797957d7c68af897eb93f3fa no What’s Stopping You? David Wood <p>There are moments in life when something begins with excitement, hope, and a sense that everything is finally coming together. You can see the progress, feel the momentum, and even celebrate what has already been accomplished. But just as quickly as it starts, something shifts. What once felt certain becomes uncertain. Doubt grows louder, obstacles appear, and the very thing that seemed so promising begins to stall. It is often right in the middle of progress that the real struggle begins, and the question quietly rises, will you keep building, or will you stop? “But many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, who were ancient men, that had seen the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice; and many shouted aloud for joy: So that the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of the weeping of the people: for the people shouted with a loud shout, and the noise was heard afar off.” (Ezra 3:12-13)</p> <p>There are moments in life when something begins with excitement, hope, and a sense that everything is finally coming together. You can see the progress, feel the momentum, and even celebrate what has already been accomplished. But just as quickly as it starts, something shifts. What once felt certain becomes uncertain. Doubt grows louder, obstacles appear, and the very thing that seemed so promising begins to stall. It is often right in the middle of progress that the real struggle begins, and the question quietly rises, will you keep building, or will you stop? “But many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, who were ancient men, that had seen the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice; and many shouted aloud for joy: So that the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of the weeping of the people: for the people shouted with a loud shout, and the noise was heard afar off.” (Ezra 3:12-13)</p> There are moments in life when something begins with excitement, hope, and a sense that everything is finally coming together. You can see the progress, feel the momentum, and even celebrate what has already been accomplished. But just as quickly as it starts, something shifts. What once felt certain becomes uncertain. Doubt grows louder, obstacles appear, and the very thing that seemed so promising begins to stall. It is often right in the middle of progress that the real struggle begins, and the question quietly rises, will you keep building, or will you stop? “But many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, who were ancient men, that had seen the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice; and many shouted aloud for joy: So that the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of the weeping of the people: for the people shouted with a loud shout, and the noise was heard afar off.” (Ezra 3:12-13)

]]> Sun, 19 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2142 115 fc5c277352b889a14e629f013ce0b9c3 no The Rescuing Ministry of God’s People Dan Preston <p>Spiritual wandering rarely happens all at once. It is usually quiet and gradual, one small step at a time, until a person finds themselves farther than they ever intended to go. Often they do not even realize it, convincing themselves it is just a temporary season. But what feels temporary can quickly become a new normal. That is why the closing of James is so powerful. Rather than ending the letter with a greeting or blessing, James concludes with a burden. If someone wanders from the truth, God calls others to go after them.</p> <p>Spiritual wandering rarely happens all at once. It is usually quiet and gradual, one small step at a time, until a person finds themselves farther than they ever intended to go. Often they do not even realize it, convincing themselves it is just a temporary season. But what feels temporary can quickly become a new normal. That is why the closing of James is so powerful. Rather than ending the letter with a greeting or blessing, James concludes with a burden. If someone wanders from the truth, God calls others to go after them.</p> Spiritual wandering rarely happens all at once. It is usually quiet and gradual, one small step at a time, until a person finds themselves farther than they ever intended to go. Often they do not even realize it, convincing themselves it is just a temporary season. But what feels temporary can quickly become a new normal. That is why the closing of James is so powerful. Rather than ending the letter with a greeting or blessing, James concludes with a burden. If someone wanders from the truth, God calls others to go after them.

]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1652 116 fbeb62f68aa4684545c66193363f3b8f no Servants Who Strengthen the Church Dan Preston <p>The first deacons in Jerusalem were appointed because real needs in the church were being overlooked, and God would not allow His people to ignore those who were hurting. From the beginning, deacons were called to serve, not to rule. They are not spiritual overseers or decision-makers over the pastor, but faithful servants who help care for the church and support the ministry of the Word and prayer. In our text tonight, Paul reminds us that this is a serious and holy calling, with clear spiritual qualifications. As we come to this passage, we must understand that a deacon is not a position of control, but a role of Christlike service, marked by character, compassion, and a heart to meet real needs.</p> <p>The first deacons in Jerusalem were appointed because real needs in the church were being overlooked, and God would not allow His people to ignore those who were hurting. From the beginning, deacons were called to serve, not to rule. They are not spiritual overseers or decision-makers over the pastor, but faithful servants who help care for the church and support the ministry of the Word and prayer. In our text tonight, Paul reminds us that this is a serious and holy calling, with clear spiritual qualifications. As we come to this passage, we must understand that a deacon is not a position of control, but a role of Christlike service, marked by character, compassion, and a heart to meet real needs.</p> The first deacons in Jerusalem were appointed because real needs in the church were being overlooked, and God would not allow His people to ignore those who were hurting. From the beginning, deacons were called to serve, not to rule. They are not spiritual overseers or decision-makers over the pastor, but faithful servants who help care for the church and support the ministry of the Word and prayer. In our text tonight, Paul reminds us that this is a serious and holy calling, with clear spiritual qualifications. As we come to this passage, we must understand that a deacon is not a position of control, but a role of Christlike service, marked by character, compassion, and a heart to meet real needs.

]]> Sun, 12 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2638 117 38e1fa8cf4f830b465fcf73e64d2f895 no “Whereas Four Stood Up” Current Events Mike Gilbert Sun, 12 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2673 118 aaa3bbf353a90d4d9922d7e8abc6b1ae no Holding Fast to What You Have in Christ Dan Preston <p>Our words have the power to build up or tear down, and that matters because people are often carrying far more than we can see. Sometimes what makes the difference is a simple word of encouragement at the right moment. But before we can truly encourage others, we have to understand what we have in Christ ourselves. In Hebrews 10, the writer reminds us that because of what Jesus has done, we have direct access to God, something steady and powerful that is worth holding onto. And in light of that, he calls us not only to remain faithful, but to help others do the same.</p> <p>Our words have the power to build up or tear down, and that matters because people are often carrying far more than we can see. Sometimes what makes the difference is a simple word of encouragement at the right moment. But before we can truly encourage others, we have to understand what we have in Christ ourselves. In Hebrews 10, the writer reminds us that because of what Jesus has done, we have direct access to God, something steady and powerful that is worth holding onto. And in light of that, he calls us not only to remain faithful, but to help others do the same.</p> Our words have the power to build up or tear down, and that matters because people are often carrying far more than we can see. Sometimes what makes the difference is a simple word of encouragement at the right moment. But before we can truly encourage others, we have to understand what we have in Christ ourselves. In Hebrews 10, the writer reminds us that because of what Jesus has done, we have direct access to God, something steady and powerful that is worth holding onto. And in light of that, he calls us not only to remain faithful, but to help others do the same.

]]> Sun, 12 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1826 119 a0db6629a1f42ad025db8cd5e30eb3e5 no The Power of Ordinary Prayer Dan Preston <p>Most believers don’t struggle with whether prayer works in theory; we struggle with whether it works when we pray. We know it’s important, biblical, and commanded, yet deep down we wonder: does it really make a difference? It’s easy to think prayer is powerful for people like Moses, Elijah, or Paul, but not for ordinary believers. James ends his letter by correcting that mindset and answering a crucial question: what kind of prayer actually moves the hand of God?</p> <p>Most believers don’t struggle with whether prayer works in theory; we struggle with whether it works when we pray. We know it’s important, biblical, and commanded, yet deep down we wonder: does it really make a difference? It’s easy to think prayer is powerful for people like Moses, Elijah, or Paul, but not for ordinary believers. James ends his letter by correcting that mindset and answering a crucial question: what kind of prayer actually moves the hand of God?</p> Most believers don’t struggle with whether prayer works in theory; we struggle with whether it works when we pray. We know it’s important, biblical, and commanded, yet deep down we wonder: does it really make a difference? It’s easy to think prayer is powerful for people like Moses, Elijah, or Paul, but not for ordinary believers. James ends his letter by correcting that mindset and answering a crucial question: what kind of prayer actually moves the hand of God?

]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1733 120 51a4b2dbc9d54a2d528aacd5338f22df no Why Seek Ye the Living Among the Dead? Dan Preston <p>Christians don’t gather on Easter merely to remember that Jesus died; we gather because He died and rose again. If He only died, He might be admired or respected, but if He rose, He must be believed, worshiped, and obeyed. On that first resurrection morning, no one expected Him to be alive. The women came with spices, the disciples were confused, and the world assumed the story was over. But heaven declared otherwise: “He is not here, but is risen.” From that moment, the resurrection demanded a response, and people are still responding to the empty tomb today.</p> <p>Christians don’t gather on Easter merely to remember that Jesus died; we gather because He died and rose again. If He only died, He might be admired or respected, but if He rose, He must be believed, worshiped, and obeyed. On that first resurrection morning, no one expected Him to be alive. The women came with spices, the disciples were confused, and the world assumed the story was over. But heaven declared otherwise: “He is not here, but is risen.” From that moment, the resurrection demanded a response, and people are still responding to the empty tomb today.</p> Christians don’t gather on Easter merely to remember that Jesus died; we gather because He died and rose again. If He only died, He might be admired or respected, but if He rose, He must be believed, worshiped, and obeyed. On that first resurrection morning, no one expected Him to be alive. The women came with spices, the disciples were confused, and the world assumed the story was over. But heaven declared otherwise: “He is not here, but is risen.” From that moment, the resurrection demanded a response, and people are still responding to the empty tomb today.

]]> Sun, 05 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1941 121 0309d06d77e5bc1b2547dbedf9f0820e no When Weakness Calls for Prayer Dan Preston <p>Most of us pray when we still feel strong, when the situation seems manageable, and the answer feels close. But there comes a time when our strength runs out, and the weight is too much to carry alone. In these moments, James reminds us that God never intended us to walk through weakness by ourselves. True maturity isn’t shown by handling everything alone, but by knowing when to ask others to pray. Prayer isn’t just personal; it is meant to be shared, and God often works most powerfully when we humbly seek help.</p> <p>Most of us pray when we still feel strong, when the situation seems manageable, and the answer feels close. But there comes a time when our strength runs out, and the weight is too much to carry alone. In these moments, James reminds us that God never intended us to walk through weakness by ourselves. True maturity isn’t shown by handling everything alone, but by knowing when to ask others to pray. Prayer isn’t just personal; it is meant to be shared, and God often works most powerfully when we humbly seek help.</p> Most of us pray when we still feel strong, when the situation seems manageable, and the answer feels close. But there comes a time when our strength runs out, and the weight is too much to carry alone. In these moments, James reminds us that God never intended us to walk through weakness by ourselves. True maturity isn’t shown by handling everything alone, but by knowing when to ask others to pray. Prayer isn’t just personal; it is meant to be shared, and God often works most powerfully when we humbly seek help.

]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1838 122 dfe716ab49d172c0727eda8f3d2d0d60 no A Heavenly Reason Tim Tyler Sun, 29 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1730 123 3c56b9f1f867b39d893a1c36d052208a no The Passover Mike Gilbert Sun, 29 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2662 124 42f5bb568c7a9bb5059c243c5abf04f5 no Nothing But the Blood Dan Preston <p>There are certain subjects people tend to avoid, topics that make us uncomfortable, like blood. Yet in Scripture, blood is not peripheral; it is central to God’s message of salvation. Hebrews 9:22 tells us plainly, “…without shedding of blood is no remission.” This confronts us with two truths we often try to soften: God’s holiness and the seriousness of our sin. The repeated sacrifices of the Old Covenant were not the solution, but a sign pointing forward to Jesus Christ. And now, Hebrews brings us to this reality: only His blood can truly cleanse and redeem.</p> <p>There are certain subjects people tend to avoid, topics that make us uncomfortable, like blood. Yet in Scripture, blood is not peripheral; it is central to God’s message of salvation. Hebrews 9:22 tells us plainly, “…without shedding of blood is no remission.” This confronts us with two truths we often try to soften: God’s holiness and the seriousness of our sin. The repeated sacrifices of the Old Covenant were not the solution, but a sign pointing forward to Jesus Christ. And now, Hebrews brings us to this reality: only His blood can truly cleanse and redeem.</p> There are certain subjects people tend to avoid, topics that make us uncomfortable, like blood. Yet in Scripture, blood is not peripheral; it is central to God’s message of salvation. Hebrews 9:22 tells us plainly, “…without shedding of blood is no remission.” This confronts us with two truths we often try to soften: God’s holiness and the seriousness of our sin. The repeated sacrifices of the Old Covenant were not the solution, but a sign pointing forward to Jesus Christ. And now, Hebrews brings us to this reality: only His blood can truly cleanse and redeem.

]]> Sun, 29 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2145 125 19bcc9992db7e4b93faf5f322798917b no Frustrated Purpose David Wood <p>Ever been frustrated when something suddenly stops your progress, a broken gas pump, a frozen screen, bad directions, or unclear instructions? You’re moving forward, and then everything halts. Spiritually, life can feel the same way. Just when things start to grow and God is moving, something steps in to disrupt it. That’s exactly what we see in Ezra chapter 4: momentum, purpose, and then opposition. Tonight, we’ll look at three truths from this passage to help us keep moving forward when our purpose gets frustrated.</p> <p>Ever been frustrated when something suddenly stops your progress, a broken gas pump, a frozen screen, bad directions, or unclear instructions? You’re moving forward, and then everything halts. Spiritually, life can feel the same way. Just when things start to grow and God is moving, something steps in to disrupt it. That’s exactly what we see in Ezra chapter 4: momentum, purpose, and then opposition. Tonight, we’ll look at three truths from this passage to help us keep moving forward when our purpose gets frustrated.</p> Ever been frustrated when something suddenly stops your progress, a broken gas pump, a frozen screen, bad directions, or unclear instructions? You’re moving forward, and then everything halts. Spiritually, life can feel the same way. Just when things start to grow and God is moving, something steps in to disrupt it. That’s exactly what we see in Ezra chapter 4: momentum, purpose, and then opposition. Tonight, we’ll look at three truths from this passage to help us keep moving forward when our purpose gets frustrated.

]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1610 126 1045bc80beb3750026ade5f48248d365 no Blindness In Part Mike Gilbert <p>Why do we support Israel? These are the questions that the world is asking. Further, these are questions that many who claim to be Bible believing Christians are asking. The message tonight is designed to answer these and many other questions. Most people in defense or defiance of support for Israel point to Genesis 12:1-3. “Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. (Genesis 12:1-3) Let’s look at many questions being asked by those who question our support of Israel. We will list these questions as the “world view.”</p> <p>Why do we support Israel? These are the questions that the world is asking. Further, these are questions that many who claim to be Bible believing Christians are asking. The message tonight is designed to answer these and many other questions. Most people in defense or defiance of support for Israel point to Genesis 12:1-3. “Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. (Genesis 12:1-3) Let’s look at many questions being asked by those who question our support of Israel. We will list these questions as the “world view.”</p> Why do we support Israel? These are the questions that the world is asking. Further, these are questions that many who claim to be Bible believing Christians are asking. The message tonight is designed to answer these and many other questions. Most people in defense or defiance of support for Israel point to Genesis 12:1-3. “Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. (Genesis 12:1-3) Let’s look at many questions being asked by those who question our support of Israel. We will list these questions as the “world view.”

]]> Sun, 22 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2283 127 bae1453957f07bce6de01506df56465f no Israel, Persia, & Edom (2) Mike Gilbert Sun, 22 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2619 128 a6b1a3d6f3d9924e2b3da5dae8e9a1ce no The Loss of Momentum David Wood <p>There are many believers today who feel stuck, no longer moving forward, no longer growing, the momentum they once had now gone. The problem is comparison. Comparison always pulls us in the wrong direction. It either fills us with pride or leaves us discouraged, and neither one leads to spiritual growth. Instead of building momentum, it quietly brings everything to a stop. “For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.” (2 Corinthians 10:12) God has never loved us based on where we are on our path, yet comparison causes many believers to become discouraged, prideful, and spiritually stalled. As Israel experienced a fresh start and everything seemed to be moving forward, a subtle shift began to take place, one that would eventually stop the work altogether.</p> <p>There are many believers today who feel stuck, no longer moving forward, no longer growing, the momentum they once had now gone. The problem is comparison. Comparison always pulls us in the wrong direction. It either fills us with pride or leaves us discouraged, and neither one leads to spiritual growth. Instead of building momentum, it quietly brings everything to a stop. “For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.” (2 Corinthians 10:12) God has never loved us based on where we are on our path, yet comparison causes many believers to become discouraged, prideful, and spiritually stalled. As Israel experienced a fresh start and everything seemed to be moving forward, a subtle shift began to take place, one that would eventually stop the work altogether.</p> There are many believers today who feel stuck, no longer moving forward, no longer growing, the momentum they once had now gone. The problem is comparison. Comparison always pulls us in the wrong direction. It either fills us with pride or leaves us discouraged, and neither one leads to spiritual growth. Instead of building momentum, it quietly brings everything to a stop. “For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.” (2 Corinthians 10:12) God has never loved us based on where we are on our path, yet comparison causes many believers to become discouraged, prideful, and spiritually stalled. As Israel experienced a fresh start and everything seemed to be moving forward, a subtle shift began to take place, one that would eventually stop the work altogether.

]]> Sun, 22 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2249 129 923167c05bfa093d33d728e9418a93b6 no The Trumpet Must Sound Keith Roberts <p>In the stillness of the night, a warning siren demands a response because danger is real and near. In the same way, God called Hosea to sound the trumpet, not to frighten without reason, but to mercifully warn a people who had turned from Him. Israel’s sin was not hidden, and judgment was not random; it was standing at the door. Yet even in that moment, the sounding of the trumpet was grace, a final call to recognize the danger, turn back, and run to the only place of safety, the Lord Himself.</p> <p>In the stillness of the night, a warning siren demands a response because danger is real and near. In the same way, God called Hosea to sound the trumpet, not to frighten without reason, but to mercifully warn a people who had turned from Him. Israel’s sin was not hidden, and judgment was not random; it was standing at the door. Yet even in that moment, the sounding of the trumpet was grace, a final call to recognize the danger, turn back, and run to the only place of safety, the Lord Himself.</p> In the stillness of the night, a warning siren demands a response because danger is real and near. In the same way, God called Hosea to sound the trumpet, not to frighten without reason, but to mercifully warn a people who had turned from Him. Israel’s sin was not hidden, and judgment was not random; it was standing at the door. Yet even in that moment, the sounding of the trumpet was grace, a final call to recognize the danger, turn back, and run to the only place of safety, the Lord Himself.

]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1356 130 06bf1fa4490579590d46007f7671725b no A Pastor Above Reproach Dan Preston <p>Paul reminds us that the office of pastor is not a title to be admired but a work to be carried out. When churches forget the weight of that calling, and when pastors drift from the character God requires, trust erodes and the church suffers. That is why passages like 1 Timothy 3 matter so deeply. They remind us that this office is a noble work that requires faithfulness, humility, and a life that reflects the seriousness of standing before God’s people and one day giving account to Him.</p> <p>Paul reminds us that the office of pastor is not a title to be admired but a work to be carried out. When churches forget the weight of that calling, and when pastors drift from the character God requires, trust erodes and the church suffers. That is why passages like 1 Timothy 3 matter so deeply. They remind us that this office is a noble work that requires faithfulness, humility, and a life that reflects the seriousness of standing before God’s people and one day giving account to Him.</p> Paul reminds us that the office of pastor is not a title to be admired but a work to be carried out. When churches forget the weight of that calling, and when pastors drift from the character God requires, trust erodes and the church suffers. That is why passages like 1 Timothy 3 matter so deeply. They remind us that this office is a noble work that requires faithfulness, humility, and a life that reflects the seriousness of standing before God’s people and one day giving account to Him.

]]> Sun, 15 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3016 131 8ca50dbc3a44aa2a0f213e7753268168 no Israel, Persia, & Edom Current Events Mike Gilbert Sun, 15 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2833 132 8c6f05594df05ada0e03e6960a3bec54 no A New and Better Covenant <p>In our modern world, many relationships are defined by contracts, agreements that outline expectations and obligations. But the Bible describes God’s relationship with His people differently. God established a covenant, a binding relationship built on promise and faithfulness. “Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.” (Isaiah 49:15) The writer of Hebrews addresses believers who were tempted to return to the familiar system of priests and sacrifices, but he reminds them that those things were only shadows pointing to Christ. “Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people… And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation…” (Exodus 19:5–6) “…All that the LORD hath spoken we will do…” (Exodus 19:8) Our text reminds us that through Jesus Christ, God has established a better covenant built on better promises, once again showing that Jesus is better.</p> <p>In our modern world, many relationships are defined by contracts, agreements that outline expectations and obligations. But the Bible describes God’s relationship with His people differently. God established a covenant, a binding relationship built on promise and faithfulness. “Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.” (Isaiah 49:15) The writer of Hebrews addresses believers who were tempted to return to the familiar system of priests and sacrifices, but he reminds them that those things were only shadows pointing to Christ. “Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people… And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation…” (Exodus 19:5–6) “…All that the LORD hath spoken we will do…” (Exodus 19:8) Our text reminds us that through Jesus Christ, God has established a better covenant built on better promises, once again showing that Jesus is better.</p> In our modern world, many relationships are defined by contracts, agreements that outline expectations and obligations. But the Bible describes God’s relationship with His people differently. God established a covenant, a binding relationship built on promise and faithfulness. “Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.” (Isaiah 49:15) The writer of Hebrews addresses believers who were tempted to return to the familiar system of priests and sacrifices, but he reminds them that those things were only shadows pointing to Christ. “Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people… And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation…” (Exodus 19:5–6) “…All that the LORD hath spoken we will do…” (Exodus 19:8) Our text reminds us that through Jesus Christ, God has established a better covenant built on better promises, once again showing that Jesus is better.

]]> Sun, 15 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2936 133 e62c9d1a23efa58633a149b45916e160 no The Power of Prayerful Living Dan Preston <p>Someone once said, “Patience is what you admire in the driver behind you, but not in the one in front of you.” Prayer can be much the same. We believe in it, talk about it, and teach it, but when pressure comes, it is not always our first response. Too often, we treat prayer like a last resort instead of a daily lifeline. Yet, as James closes his letter, he reminds us that prayer belongs in every season of life, both trouble and joy. In our text tonight, we see that prayer is not the believer’s emergency option, but the believer’s normal response.</p> <p>Someone once said, “Patience is what you admire in the driver behind you, but not in the one in front of you.” Prayer can be much the same. We believe in it, talk about it, and teach it, but when pressure comes, it is not always our first response. Too often, we treat prayer like a last resort instead of a daily lifeline. Yet, as James closes his letter, he reminds us that prayer belongs in every season of life, both trouble and joy. In our text tonight, we see that prayer is not the believer’s emergency option, but the believer’s normal response.</p> Someone once said, “Patience is what you admire in the driver behind you, but not in the one in front of you.” Prayer can be much the same. We believe in it, talk about it, and teach it, but when pressure comes, it is not always our first response. Too often, we treat prayer like a last resort instead of a daily lifeline. Yet, as James closes his letter, he reminds us that prayer belongs in every season of life, both trouble and joy. In our text tonight, we see that prayer is not the believer’s emergency option, but the believer’s normal response.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1305 134 6a0ed165d066320f6e4ad4dd104177a2 no How Shall They Hear? Joshua Marquardt <p>Bro. Joshua Marquardt answers the biblical question, How Shall They Hear? with his four point outline: The Sobering Need for the Gospel v1-7; The Simplicity of the Gospel v4-13; The Sending of the Gospel v14-15; & finally, The Shunned Gospel v16-21.</p> <p>Bro. Joshua Marquardt answers the biblical question, How Shall They Hear? with his four point outline: The Sobering Need for the Gospel v1-7; The Simplicity of the Gospel v4-13; The Sending of the Gospel v14-15; & finally, The Shunned Gospel v16-21.</p> Bro. Joshua Marquardt answers the biblical question, How Shall They Hear? with his four point outline: The Sobering Need for the Gospel v1-7; The Simplicity of the Gospel v4-13; The Sending of the Gospel v14-15; & finally, The Shunned Gospel v16-21.

]]> Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1464 135 e7a3b7bffcb3407fee88dbb3768a8ef5 no The King Makers Current Events Mike Gilbert Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2790 136 ab94f8deb4a6de6fbefc866243d6fd00 no He Is Able <p>That is why Hebrews 7 matters. God is speaking to people who know the truth but are growing weary. Instead of telling them to try harder, He points them to a Person. The question is not whether you can hold on to God, but whether your Savior lives. Hebrews 7:25 answers with a powerful truth: Christ is able to save to the uttermost those who come to God by Him because He ever lives to make intercession for them. Our security rests not in our grip on Christ, but in His living, unchangeable priesthood.</p> <p>That is why Hebrews 7 matters. God is speaking to people who know the truth but are growing weary. Instead of telling them to try harder, He points them to a Person. The question is not whether you can hold on to God, but whether your Savior lives. Hebrews 7:25 answers with a powerful truth: Christ is able to save to the uttermost those who come to God by Him because He ever lives to make intercession for them. Our security rests not in our grip on Christ, but in His living, unchangeable priesthood.</p> That is why Hebrews 7 matters. God is speaking to people who know the truth but are growing weary. Instead of telling them to try harder, He points them to a Person. The question is not whether you can hold on to God, but whether your Savior lives. Hebrews 7:25 answers with a powerful truth: Christ is able to save to the uttermost those who come to God by Him because He ever lives to make intercession for them. Our security rests not in our grip on Christ, but in His living, unchangeable priesthood.

]]> Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2308 137 8189f38a0c57c524c2fd31c8bdbfe73b no When Words Need Reinforcement Dan Preston <p>Have you ever noticed that when someone feels the need to say, “I swear I’m telling the truth,” it usually reveals a problem? When words require reinforcement, it is often because they do not normally carry much weight. That is exactly what James addresses in our text this evening. He is not speaking about profanity, but about the habit of adding extra words to make themselves believable. His message is simple and searching: God’s people should not need extra phrases to make themselves believable. Our integrity should already speak for us.</p> <p>Have you ever noticed that when someone feels the need to say, “I swear I’m telling the truth,” it usually reveals a problem? When words require reinforcement, it is often because they do not normally carry much weight. That is exactly what James addresses in our text this evening. He is not speaking about profanity, but about the habit of adding extra words to make themselves believable. His message is simple and searching: God’s people should not need extra phrases to make themselves believable. Our integrity should already speak for us.</p> Have you ever noticed that when someone feels the need to say, “I swear I’m telling the truth,” it usually reveals a problem? When words require reinforcement, it is often because they do not normally carry much weight. That is exactly what James addresses in our text this evening. He is not speaking about profanity, but about the habit of adding extra words to make themselves believable. His message is simple and searching: God’s people should not need extra phrases to make themselves believable. Our integrity should already speak for us.

]]> Wed, 04 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1549 138 cb843b1cfd6a40720882b6ef050a9fdc no The Scars of the Past David Wood <p>All scars have a story attached to them. Some are physical, and we can explain every detail of how they happened. Others are emotional and physiological, unseen, but just as real. “Scars explain where you’ve been. They don’t decide where you’re going.” - Anonymous When facing past scars, you have two paths. You can allow them to debilitate you, producing bitterness, numbness, or fear. Or you can allow God to transform you, accept His plan, serve in His purpose, and experience His peace. “Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.” (Micah 7:18–19) Even in a chapter like Ezra 2, filled with names, we see that God is carefully and faithfully rebuilding His people and ensuring that what was broken is restored properly.</p> <p>All scars have a story attached to them. Some are physical, and we can explain every detail of how they happened. Others are emotional and physiological, unseen, but just as real. “Scars explain where you’ve been. They don’t decide where you’re going.” - Anonymous When facing past scars, you have two paths. You can allow them to debilitate you, producing bitterness, numbness, or fear. Or you can allow God to transform you, accept His plan, serve in His purpose, and experience His peace. “Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.” (Micah 7:18–19) Even in a chapter like Ezra 2, filled with names, we see that God is carefully and faithfully rebuilding His people and ensuring that what was broken is restored properly.</p> All scars have a story attached to them. Some are physical, and we can explain every detail of how they happened. Others are emotional and physiological, unseen, but just as real. “Scars explain where you’ve been. They don’t decide where you’re going.” - Anonymous When facing past scars, you have two paths. You can allow them to debilitate you, producing bitterness, numbness, or fear. Or you can allow God to transform you, accept His plan, serve in His purpose, and experience His peace. “Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.” (Micah 7:18–19) Even in a chapter like Ezra 2, filled with names, we see that God is carefully and faithfully rebuilding His people and ensuring that what was broken is restored properly.

]]> Sun, 22 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2363 139 444e7234315453e2d9181f9b34fc7f56 no What Paul Really Said About Women in the Church Dan Preston <p>When it comes to biblical teaching on the role of women in the church, there is danger on every side. We are not here to win arguments or fight cultural battles, but to hear God’s Word and submit ourselves to it. This passage has stirred controversy, clashed with modern expectations, and been distorted by personal preference, yet it remains the revealed mind of the Holy Spirit. Some of its words are difficult and some of its truths confront us, but God’s Word is good and His order is loving. If we are to understand what Paul truly says here, we must come not with outrage or prejudice, but with humble hearts ready to be corrected and shaped by Scripture.</p> <p>When it comes to biblical teaching on the role of women in the church, there is danger on every side. We are not here to win arguments or fight cultural battles, but to hear God’s Word and submit ourselves to it. This passage has stirred controversy, clashed with modern expectations, and been distorted by personal preference, yet it remains the revealed mind of the Holy Spirit. Some of its words are difficult and some of its truths confront us, but God’s Word is good and His order is loving. If we are to understand what Paul truly says here, we must come not with outrage or prejudice, but with humble hearts ready to be corrected and shaped by Scripture.</p> When it comes to biblical teaching on the role of women in the church, there is danger on every side. We are not here to win arguments or fight cultural battles, but to hear God’s Word and submit ourselves to it. This passage has stirred controversy, clashed with modern expectations, and been distorted by personal preference, yet it remains the revealed mind of the Holy Spirit. Some of its words are difficult and some of its truths confront us, but God’s Word is good and His order is loving. If we are to understand what Paul truly says here, we must come not with outrage or prejudice, but with humble hearts ready to be corrected and shaped by Scripture.

]]> Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2393 140 69b373546e8d446183d1b169cd791f52 no Purim 2026 Current Events Mike Gilbert Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2554 141 96353d6e16b38dd8405a67822f2d9b73 no An Anchor for the Soul <p>When life begins to shake through hard news, financial strain, broken trust, or quiet anxiety in the night, we all reach for something to steady ourselves. The question is not if we will grab hold of something, but what we will grab. Even sincere believers can cling to control, distraction, or busyness instead of the One who truly holds us firm. In this passage, God graciously gives us something solid to anchor our souls, not a feeling or positive thinking, but unshakable hope rooted in who He is, what He has promised, and where Christ is right now.</p> <p>When life begins to shake through hard news, financial strain, broken trust, or quiet anxiety in the night, we all reach for something to steady ourselves. The question is not if we will grab hold of something, but what we will grab. Even sincere believers can cling to control, distraction, or busyness instead of the One who truly holds us firm. In this passage, God graciously gives us something solid to anchor our souls, not a feeling or positive thinking, but unshakable hope rooted in who He is, what He has promised, and where Christ is right now.</p> When life begins to shake through hard news, financial strain, broken trust, or quiet anxiety in the night, we all reach for something to steady ourselves. The question is not if we will grab hold of something, but what we will grab. Even sincere believers can cling to control, distraction, or busyness instead of the One who truly holds us firm. In this passage, God graciously gives us something solid to anchor our souls, not a feeling or positive thinking, but unshakable hope rooted in who He is, what He has promised, and where Christ is right now.

]]> Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2126 142 13035cbb079555d13426140941e1951c no Nothing Escapes God’s Eyes Trevor Hampton <p>There is something inside all of us that changes when we realize we are being watched. We straighten up. We adjust our behavior. We become aware. Yet so often, we live as though no one sees what happens in the quiet moments, the private thoughts, the hidden compromises, the secret sins. In 2 Samuel 11, we find a powerful reminder through the life of David that nothing escapes God’s eyes. What seemed like a private glance became public devastation. What felt hidden was fully seen by heaven. The same God who saw David on that rooftop sees us today, not just in our victories, but in our vulnerabilities. The question is not whether God sees. The question is, do we live like He does?</p> <p>There is something inside all of us that changes when we realize we are being watched. We straighten up. We adjust our behavior. We become aware. Yet so often, we live as though no one sees what happens in the quiet moments, the private thoughts, the hidden compromises, the secret sins. In 2 Samuel 11, we find a powerful reminder through the life of David that nothing escapes God’s eyes. What seemed like a private glance became public devastation. What felt hidden was fully seen by heaven. The same God who saw David on that rooftop sees us today, not just in our victories, but in our vulnerabilities. The question is not whether God sees. The question is, do we live like He does?</p> There is something inside all of us that changes when we realize we are being watched. We straighten up. We adjust our behavior. We become aware. Yet so often, we live as though no one sees what happens in the quiet moments, the private thoughts, the hidden compromises, the secret sins. In 2 Samuel 11, we find a powerful reminder through the life of David that nothing escapes God’s eyes. What seemed like a private glance became public devastation. What felt hidden was fully seen by heaven. The same God who saw David on that rooftop sees us today, not just in our victories, but in our vulnerabilities. The question is not whether God sees. The question is, do we live like He does?

]]> Sun, 22 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2018 143 8602e60a4ceecd49542f0a35c8512768 no What’s Next? Current Events Mike Gilbert Sun, 22 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2599 144 473c301c44dfc8fd4cb16ef15888efd3 no While It Is Day Dan Preston <p>When John G. Paton announced his mission to a South Pacific island known for cannibalism, a concerned elder warned him, “You will be eaten!” Paton famously replied that it mattered little whether he was consumed by cannibals or by worms, so long as he served the Lord. Despite facing the tragic loss of his family and constant threats to his life, Paton’s persistence eventually transformed the islands. His story serves as a piercing rebuke to the "procrastination of good intentions," reminding us that the greatest obstacle to the Great Commission isn't a lack of heart, but the dangerous assumption that there will always be more time to go.</p> <p>When John G. Paton announced his mission to a South Pacific island known for cannibalism, a concerned elder warned him, “You will be eaten!” Paton famously replied that it mattered little whether he was consumed by cannibals or by worms, so long as he served the Lord. Despite facing the tragic loss of his family and constant threats to his life, Paton’s persistence eventually transformed the islands. His story serves as a piercing rebuke to the "procrastination of good intentions," reminding us that the greatest obstacle to the Great Commission isn't a lack of heart, but the dangerous assumption that there will always be more time to go.</p> When John G. Paton announced his mission to a South Pacific island known for cannibalism, a concerned elder warned him, “You will be eaten!” Paton famously replied that it mattered little whether he was consumed by cannibals or by worms, so long as he served the Lord. Despite facing the tragic loss of his family and constant threats to his life, Paton’s persistence eventually transformed the islands. His story serves as a piercing rebuke to the "procrastination of good intentions," reminding us that the greatest obstacle to the Great Commission isn't a lack of heart, but the dangerous assumption that there will always be more time to go.

]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1600 145 b2d4da99c5832afb37da36feffd1a238 no What Will This Rain Produce? Dan Preston <p>Most of us are dangerously comfortable with the word “later.” We delay car repairs, phone calls, and bills, often laughing off the procrastination until the cost of that delay finally catches up to us. While “later” might be a minor nuisance in our daily schedules, Hebrews 6 warns us that it is a spiritual tragedy when applied to the things of God. This passage is written to interrupt the assumption that we always have more time to respond, obey, or take truth seriously. When God continues to pour out His grace and we continue to delay, the issue shifts from a matter of timing to a matter of fruitfulness. Today, we will face this challenging warning honestly, asking three vital questions to understand what the Holy Spirit is saying to a heart that is tempted to drift.</p> <p>Most of us are dangerously comfortable with the word “later.” We delay car repairs, phone calls, and bills, often laughing off the procrastination until the cost of that delay finally catches up to us. While “later” might be a minor nuisance in our daily schedules, Hebrews 6 warns us that it is a spiritual tragedy when applied to the things of God. This passage is written to interrupt the assumption that we always have more time to respond, obey, or take truth seriously. When God continues to pour out His grace and we continue to delay, the issue shifts from a matter of timing to a matter of fruitfulness. Today, we will face this challenging warning honestly, asking three vital questions to understand what the Holy Spirit is saying to a heart that is tempted to drift.</p> Most of us are dangerously comfortable with the word “later.” We delay car repairs, phone calls, and bills, often laughing off the procrastination until the cost of that delay finally catches up to us. While “later” might be a minor nuisance in our daily schedules, Hebrews 6 warns us that it is a spiritual tragedy when applied to the things of God. This passage is written to interrupt the assumption that we always have more time to respond, obey, or take truth seriously. When God continues to pour out His grace and we continue to delay, the issue shifts from a matter of timing to a matter of fruitfulness. Today, we will face this challenging warning honestly, asking three vital questions to understand what the Holy Spirit is saying to a heart that is tempted to drift.

]]> Sun, 15 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1796 146 3bdd9f6d7d83ec431a4bbad2a96328a1 no Why Did You Wait So Long? <p>For years, a missionary was blocked from entering a remote village by government restrictions and hostility. When the door finally opened and he shared the gospel, an elderly man asked through tears, “Why did you wait so long? We have believed these things for years; we just didn’t know the name of the God who loved us.” This haunting question reminds us that missions is not merely about opportunity, but urgency. The world’s need is certain; the only question is whether God’s people will respond in time.</p> <p>For years, a missionary was blocked from entering a remote village by government restrictions and hostility. When the door finally opened and he shared the gospel, an elderly man asked through tears, “Why did you wait so long? We have believed these things for years; we just didn’t know the name of the God who loved us.” This haunting question reminds us that missions is not merely about opportunity, but urgency. The world’s need is certain; the only question is whether God’s people will respond in time.</p> For years, a missionary was blocked from entering a remote village by government restrictions and hostility. When the door finally opened and he shared the gospel, an elderly man asked through tears, “Why did you wait so long? We have believed these things for years; we just didn’t know the name of the God who loved us.” This haunting question reminds us that missions is not merely about opportunity, but urgency. The world’s need is certain; the only question is whether God’s people will respond in time.

]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1471 147 4077f41e04b110ca7a027b6e2398b29e no God’s Great Commission Sun, 08 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3525 148 792e405904835fbabf4f0b54b345db16 no Faith Promise: A Dozen Questions Answered Joel Haynes Sun, 08 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2879 149 5446c9ec8e5b55af6478e784f2b196ea no A Fisherman & A Fish Sun, 08 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2409 150 9b761cbe4333168b9618649465773eb5 no Here Am I; Send Me Dan Preston <p>One of the dangers of being in church for a long time is that we can become very familiar with spiritual language without being personally affected by it. Words like missions, evangelism, the Great Commission, and the nations can slowly become part of our vocabulary rather than a call to action. We talk about missions, we support missions, and we pray for missionaries—but sometimes we forget that missions is not simply something the church does somewhere else, but something God calls His people to be involved in personally. This month, as the church focuses on missions, the desire is not just to learn more about missions, but to pray more intentionally, give more faithfully, and respond more obediently to what God is doing in the world.</p> <p>One of the dangers of being in church for a long time is that we can become very familiar with spiritual language without being personally affected by it. Words like missions, evangelism, the Great Commission, and the nations can slowly become part of our vocabulary rather than a call to action. We talk about missions, we support missions, and we pray for missionaries—but sometimes we forget that missions is not simply something the church does somewhere else, but something God calls His people to be involved in personally. This month, as the church focuses on missions, the desire is not just to learn more about missions, but to pray more intentionally, give more faithfully, and respond more obediently to what God is doing in the world.</p> One of the dangers of being in church for a long time is that we can become very familiar with spiritual language without being personally affected by it. Words like missions, evangelism, the Great Commission, and the nations can slowly become part of our vocabulary rather than a call to action. We talk about missions, we support missions, and we pray for missionaries—but sometimes we forget that missions is not simply something the church does somewhere else, but something God calls His people to be involved in personally. This month, as the church focuses on missions, the desire is not just to learn more about missions, but to pray more intentionally, give more faithfully, and respond more obediently to what God is doing in the world.

]]> Wed, 04 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1577 151 b059c64187601dee7db1b88867a84c78 no Standing Amid the Temptations to Bow David Story <p>Preaching from the book of Daniel, missionary to Italy, David Story, warns of the dangers of bowing down to Apathy, Compromise, and our fiery Trials.</p> <p>Preaching from the book of Daniel, missionary to Italy, David Story, warns of the dangers of bowing down to Apathy, Compromise, and our fiery Trials.</p> Preaching from the book of Daniel, missionary to Italy, David Story, warns of the dangers of bowing down to Apathy, Compromise, and our fiery Trials.

]]> Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2180 152 da149a10c2970f01a7858edaa7fedde1 no David Story — Missionary to Italy — Introduction Questions & Answers David Story Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3081 153 6809c43bec1fb354c098a8879fa8baf0 no Don’t Stay Where You Started Dan Preston <p>The author of Hebrews pauses his discussion of Christ as our great High Priest to confront a serious problem, spiritual immaturity. That matters, because it shows us that you can be around deep truth, sound doctrine, and faithful preaching and still be stuck. You can be saved and still be childish, in church and yet not growing. And that is a quiet tragedy. In this passage, we will see three marks of spiritual immaturity, not to shame us, but to wake us up. God loves His people too much to let them stagnate. So let the Word speak, examine, and heal.</p> <p>The author of Hebrews pauses his discussion of Christ as our great High Priest to confront a serious problem, spiritual immaturity. That matters, because it shows us that you can be around deep truth, sound doctrine, and faithful preaching and still be stuck. You can be saved and still be childish, in church and yet not growing. And that is a quiet tragedy. In this passage, we will see three marks of spiritual immaturity, not to shame us, but to wake us up. God loves His people too much to let them stagnate. So let the Word speak, examine, and heal.</p> The author of Hebrews pauses his discussion of Christ as our great High Priest to confront a serious problem, spiritual immaturity. That matters, because it shows us that you can be around deep truth, sound doctrine, and faithful preaching and still be stuck. You can be saved and still be childish, in church and yet not growing. And that is a quiet tragedy. In this passage, we will see three marks of spiritual immaturity, not to shame us, but to wake us up. God loves His people too much to let them stagnate. So let the Word speak, examine, and heal.

]]> Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2335 154 0715c202ac792fc76de714906c0d0251 no Our Faith In The Holy Spirit (Part 3) David Wood <p>Appreciating the importance of the Holy Spirit and responding to His conviction is an essential component in this lesson. Our constant prayer should be for the Holy Spirit to give us victory over the flesh, to grant us power to witness, and to enable us to reach our full potential in Christ. The ministry and presence of the Holy Spirit must become a daily reality in our lives!</p> <p>Appreciating the importance of the Holy Spirit and responding to His conviction is an essential component in this lesson. Our constant prayer should be for the Holy Spirit to give us victory over the flesh, to grant us power to witness, and to enable us to reach our full potential in Christ. The ministry and presence of the Holy Spirit must become a daily reality in our lives!</p> Appreciating the importance of the Holy Spirit and responding to His conviction is an essential component in this lesson. Our constant prayer should be for the Holy Spirit to give us victory over the flesh, to grant us power to witness, and to enable us to reach our full potential in Christ. The ministry and presence of the Holy Spirit must become a daily reality in our lives!

]]> Sun, 11 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1789 155 7bd7af124ef8a23a4639d5fd02b51435 no Our Faith In The Holy Spirit (Part 2) David Wood <p>Appreciating the importance of the Holy Spirit and responding to His conviction is an essential component in this lesson. Our constant prayer should be for the Holy Spirit to give us victory over the flesh, to grant us power to witness, and to enable us to reach our full potential in Christ. The ministry and presence of the Holy Spirit must become a daily reality in our lives!</p> <p>Appreciating the importance of the Holy Spirit and responding to His conviction is an essential component in this lesson. Our constant prayer should be for the Holy Spirit to give us victory over the flesh, to grant us power to witness, and to enable us to reach our full potential in Christ. The ministry and presence of the Holy Spirit must become a daily reality in our lives!</p> Appreciating the importance of the Holy Spirit and responding to His conviction is an essential component in this lesson. Our constant prayer should be for the Holy Spirit to give us victory over the flesh, to grant us power to witness, and to enable us to reach our full potential in Christ. The ministry and presence of the Holy Spirit must become a daily reality in our lives!

]]> Sun, 04 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2179 156 563b4a687ec4129e36922c4efe561b76 no The Value of a Friend Mark Rasmussen <p>Dr. Mark Rasmussen discusses three ways each of us can be a friend to the saints, sinners, and the Savior.</p> <p>Dr. Mark Rasmussen discusses three ways each of us can be a friend to the saints, sinners, and the Savior.</p> Dr. Mark Rasmussen discusses three ways each of us can be a friend to the saints, sinners, and the Savior.

]]> Wed, 21 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3932 157 ac69c5607e34361f6750f869ee94dfdc no Men and Women at Prayer Dan Preston <p>If the question “How is your prayer life?” was asked, most of us would answer carefully. We might say it could be better, or avoid the question altogether. Prayer is one area where we can look active on the outside while being unhealthy on the inside. We can pray while angry, bitter, proud, or distracted. That is why Scripture never treats prayer as neutral. When Paul addresses prayer in 1 Timothy 2, he does not focus on technique but on the heart. Prayer rises from the soul, and when it is weak or hollow, the problem is not that God has moved, but that something within us needs attention. This passage calls us to examine our hearts and come before God rightly, humbly, and honestly.</p> <p>If the question “How is your prayer life?” was asked, most of us would answer carefully. We might say it could be better, or avoid the question altogether. Prayer is one area where we can look active on the outside while being unhealthy on the inside. We can pray while angry, bitter, proud, or distracted. That is why Scripture never treats prayer as neutral. When Paul addresses prayer in 1 Timothy 2, he does not focus on technique but on the heart. Prayer rises from the soul, and when it is weak or hollow, the problem is not that God has moved, but that something within us needs attention. This passage calls us to examine our hearts and come before God rightly, humbly, and honestly.</p> If the question “How is your prayer life?” was asked, most of us would answer carefully. We might say it could be better, or avoid the question altogether. Prayer is one area where we can look active on the outside while being unhealthy on the inside. We can pray while angry, bitter, proud, or distracted. That is why Scripture never treats prayer as neutral. When Paul addresses prayer in 1 Timothy 2, he does not focus on technique but on the heart. Prayer rises from the soul, and when it is weak or hollow, the problem is not that God has moved, but that something within us needs attention. This passage calls us to examine our hearts and come before God rightly, humbly, and honestly.

]]> Sun, 18 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2481 158 de921af7642330fa062514dd4ed5a4b6 no Three Necessary Reminders Sun, 18 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2572 159 77cc5c46e53a3f39d17f5bd2021859f8 no Holding Fast to Our Great High Priest Dan Preston <p>Most believers do not fall because they stop believing in God, but because they stop clinging to Him. They do not deny Christ or abandon the Gospel. They simply loosen their grip. Seasons of weakness, guilt, temptation, and discouragement can make obedience feel impossible and change feel out of reach. Hebrews asks a question we cannot avoid. What do you do when you discover again that you are not enough? The answer is not self reliance or stronger resolve, but Christ. Seeing that we have a great High Priest, Jesus the Son of God, we are called to hold fast. When pressure rises and faith feels heavy, do not let go. Come boldly to the throne of grace. You have a High Priest who understands weakness and gives mercy when you need it most.</p> <p>Most believers do not fall because they stop believing in God, but because they stop clinging to Him. They do not deny Christ or abandon the Gospel. They simply loosen their grip. Seasons of weakness, guilt, temptation, and discouragement can make obedience feel impossible and change feel out of reach. Hebrews asks a question we cannot avoid. What do you do when you discover again that you are not enough? The answer is not self reliance or stronger resolve, but Christ. Seeing that we have a great High Priest, Jesus the Son of God, we are called to hold fast. When pressure rises and faith feels heavy, do not let go. Come boldly to the throne of grace. You have a High Priest who understands weakness and gives mercy when you need it most.</p> Most believers do not fall because they stop believing in God, but because they stop clinging to Him. They do not deny Christ or abandon the Gospel. They simply loosen their grip. Seasons of weakness, guilt, temptation, and discouragement can make obedience feel impossible and change feel out of reach. Hebrews asks a question we cannot avoid. What do you do when you discover again that you are not enough? The answer is not self reliance or stronger resolve, but Christ. Seeing that we have a great High Priest, Jesus the Son of God, we are called to hold fast. When pressure rises and faith feels heavy, do not let go. Come boldly to the throne of grace. You have a High Priest who understands weakness and gives mercy when you need it most.

]]> Sun, 18 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1930 160 10486fe1439f7bcebab8d4f143382555 no The Power of Patience <p>Patience doesn’t come naturally to most of us. We’ve all felt it. Those moments when waiting stretches our nerves thin and frustration takes over. Whether it’s traffic, lines, decisions, people, or even waiting on God, every day gives us opportunities to practice patience. Waiting is unavoidable; the real question is how we will wait. In our passage, James speaks to believers whose patience is wearing thin under hardship and injustice. By the Spirit of God, he shows us that patience is not only possible, but powerful, when it is rooted in the coming of the Lord.</p> <p>Patience doesn’t come naturally to most of us. We’ve all felt it. Those moments when waiting stretches our nerves thin and frustration takes over. Whether it’s traffic, lines, decisions, people, or even waiting on God, every day gives us opportunities to practice patience. Waiting is unavoidable; the real question is how we will wait. In our passage, James speaks to believers whose patience is wearing thin under hardship and injustice. By the Spirit of God, he shows us that patience is not only possible, but powerful, when it is rooted in the coming of the Lord.</p> Patience doesn’t come naturally to most of us. We’ve all felt it. Those moments when waiting stretches our nerves thin and frustration takes over. Whether it’s traffic, lines, decisions, people, or even waiting on God, every day gives us opportunities to practice patience. Waiting is unavoidable; the real question is how we will wait. In our passage, James speaks to believers whose patience is wearing thin under hardship and injustice. By the Spirit of God, he shows us that patience is not only possible, but powerful, when it is rooted in the coming of the Lord.

]]> Wed, 14 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2502 161 4c417f69c01d9365832903dca29b8cad no The Great Intercession Dan Preston <p>Prayer is not the most visible work of the church, but it is the most vital. It rarely draws attention or impresses the world, yet nothing of eternal value moves forward without it. Scripture and church history remind us that God’s work is never accomplished by human strength or strategy, but through dependent prayer. That is why when Paul instructs Timothy on the life of the church, he places prayer first. Before anything happens in the gathered church, something must happen before the throne of God.</p> <p>Prayer is not the most visible work of the church, but it is the most vital. It rarely draws attention or impresses the world, yet nothing of eternal value moves forward without it. Scripture and church history remind us that God’s work is never accomplished by human strength or strategy, but through dependent prayer. That is why when Paul instructs Timothy on the life of the church, he places prayer first. Before anything happens in the gathered church, something must happen before the throne of God.</p> Prayer is not the most visible work of the church, but it is the most vital. It rarely draws attention or impresses the world, yet nothing of eternal value moves forward without it. Scripture and church history remind us that God’s work is never accomplished by human strength or strategy, but through dependent prayer. That is why when Paul instructs Timothy on the life of the church, he places prayer first. Before anything happens in the gathered church, something must happen before the throne of God.

]]> Sun, 11 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2803 162 96b3d4bd5caa05af8df291dc10172360 no Return to Beth-el Summary of Genesis (55) Mike Gilbert Sun, 11 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2738 163 0df57bb3bad7bd2403452693c2008130 no The Transforming Power of the Word of God Dan Preston <p>If we are honest, many of us can point to moments when God’s Word stopped us in our tracks — when a familiar verse or a sermon suddenly made it clear that God Himself was speaking. Today, we come to one of the clearest passages on the power of Scripture. Though these verses are well known, familiarity can dull their edge. Writing to people who knew God’s Word yet, were tempted to harden their hearts, the author of Hebrews issues a sober warning: God’s Word must not be admired from a distance but received and obeyed. This passage shows us why we dare not treat the Word of God lightly.</p> <p>If we are honest, many of us can point to moments when God’s Word stopped us in our tracks — when a familiar verse or a sermon suddenly made it clear that God Himself was speaking. Today, we come to one of the clearest passages on the power of Scripture. Though these verses are well known, familiarity can dull their edge. Writing to people who knew God’s Word yet, were tempted to harden their hearts, the author of Hebrews issues a sober warning: God’s Word must not be admired from a distance but received and obeyed. This passage shows us why we dare not treat the Word of God lightly.</p> If we are honest, many of us can point to moments when God’s Word stopped us in our tracks — when a familiar verse or a sermon suddenly made it clear that God Himself was speaking. Today, we come to one of the clearest passages on the power of Scripture. Though these verses are well known, familiarity can dull their edge. Writing to people who knew God’s Word yet, were tempted to harden their hearts, the author of Hebrews issues a sober warning: God’s Word must not be admired from a distance but received and obeyed. This passage shows us why we dare not treat the Word of God lightly.

]]> Sun, 11 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2107 164 e9880599d5d018d299e8dbe966db680e no Behold, the People Shall Rise Up As a Great Lion Current Events Sun, 15 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2958 165 826a98f1721d04e35d7c09e0d6873c3b no Next? Current Events Sun, 22 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2796 166 274cb6329fd0887fa7f00e16f67944a1 no When Riches Become Ruin Dan Preston <p>“For the love of money is the root of all evil...” (1 Timothy 6:10). Money itself is not the problem. The issue is when the heart bends toward it, trusts in it, and worships it. James is not condemning wealth itself, nor is he addressing every person who has been financially blessed. His warning is aimed at those who place their trust in riches rather than in God, who use people instead of serving them, who hoard instead of help, and who worship wealth instead of the Lord. This passage speaks to all of us, because one does not have to be rich to love money. Materialism can live just as easily in a mansion as it can in a mobile home. Tonight, James pulls back the curtain to show us what happens when riches become ruin, and he calls us to examine our hearts carefully as we walk through this passage together.</p> <p>“For the love of money is the root of all evil...” (1 Timothy 6:10). Money itself is not the problem. The issue is when the heart bends toward it, trusts in it, and worships it. James is not condemning wealth itself, nor is he addressing every person who has been financially blessed. His warning is aimed at those who place their trust in riches rather than in God, who use people instead of serving them, who hoard instead of help, and who worship wealth instead of the Lord. This passage speaks to all of us, because one does not have to be rich to love money. Materialism can live just as easily in a mansion as it can in a mobile home. Tonight, James pulls back the curtain to show us what happens when riches become ruin, and he calls us to examine our hearts carefully as we walk through this passage together.</p> “For the love of money is the root of all evil...” (1 Timothy 6:10). Money itself is not the problem. The issue is when the heart bends toward it, trusts in it, and worships it. James is not condemning wealth itself, nor is he addressing every person who has been financially blessed. His warning is aimed at those who place their trust in riches rather than in God, who use people instead of serving them, who hoard instead of help, and who worship wealth instead of the Lord. This passage speaks to all of us, because one does not have to be rich to love money. Materialism can live just as easily in a mansion as it can in a mobile home. Tonight, James pulls back the curtain to show us what happens when riches become ruin, and he calls us to examine our hearts carefully as we walk through this passage together.

]]> Wed, 07 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2292 167 fec1934629d220065b90a03bf84f28e2 no Our Faith In The Holy Spirit (Part 1) David Wood <p>Appreciating the importance of the Holy Spirit and responding to His conviction is an essential component in this lesson. Our constant prayer should be for the Holy Spirit to give us victory over the flesh, to grant us power to witness, and to enable us to reach our full potential in Christ. The ministry and presence of the Holy Spirit must become a daily reality in our lives!</p> <p>Appreciating the importance of the Holy Spirit and responding to His conviction is an essential component in this lesson. Our constant prayer should be for the Holy Spirit to give us victory over the flesh, to grant us power to witness, and to enable us to reach our full potential in Christ. The ministry and presence of the Holy Spirit must become a daily reality in our lives!</p> Appreciating the importance of the Holy Spirit and responding to His conviction is an essential component in this lesson. Our constant prayer should be for the Holy Spirit to give us victory over the flesh, to grant us power to witness, and to enable us to reach our full potential in Christ. The ministry and presence of the Holy Spirit must become a daily reality in our lives!

]]> Sun, 28 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1926 168 de5cb3786e6eb2476f00b8408fbe68b4 no Our Faith In God's Son (Part 2) David Wood <p>Liberal denominations have compromised their position on the uniqueness of God's Son. In addition, Jesus Himself warned that false teachers would come into the world proclaiming that they are Christ, and many have done so. Further, cults teach a variety of heretical teachings under the guise of belief in the Christ of the Bible.</p><p>These are days for Christ's followers to know what they believe about Him, to know why they believe it, and to grow increasingly deeper in their relationship with Him.</p> <p>Liberal denominations have compromised their position on the uniqueness of God's Son. In addition, Jesus Himself warned that false teachers would come into the world proclaiming that they are Christ, and many have done so. Further, cults teach a variety of heretical teachings under the guise of belief in the Christ of the Bible.</p><p>These are days for Christ's followers to know what they believe about Him, to know why they believe it, and to grow increasingly deeper in their relationship with Him.</p> Liberal denominations have compromised their position on the uniqueness of God's Son. In addition, Jesus Himself warned that false teachers would come into the world proclaiming that they are Christ, and many have done so. Further, cults teach a variety of heretical teachings under the guise of belief in the Christ of the Bible.

These are days for Christ's followers to know what they believe about Him, to know why they believe it, and to grow increasingly deeper in their relationship with Him.

]]> Sun, 21 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1979 169 bbd09fa83d29d9d5d70beae968cccfab no Our Faith In God (Part 2) David Wood <p>Having an understanding of the character and personality of the God of the Bible is vitally important to being grounded in the faith. It is not uncommon to hear something like, "All religions worship the same God—they just call Him by different names." While this statement may be uttered by sincere lips, it is absolutely incorrect. God's people should strive to understand that the God we worship as Bible-believing Christians has revealed Himself in His Word and will not allow Himself to be confused with false gods.</p> <p>Having an understanding of the character and personality of the God of the Bible is vitally important to being grounded in the faith. It is not uncommon to hear something like, "All religions worship the same God—they just call Him by different names." While this statement may be uttered by sincere lips, it is absolutely incorrect. God's people should strive to understand that the God we worship as Bible-believing Christians has revealed Himself in His Word and will not allow Himself to be confused with false gods.</p> Having an understanding of the character and personality of the God of the Bible is vitally important to being grounded in the faith. It is not uncommon to hear something like, "All religions worship the same God—they just call Him by different names." While this statement may be uttered by sincere lips, it is absolutely incorrect. God's people should strive to understand that the God we worship as Bible-believing Christians has revealed Himself in His Word and will not allow Himself to be confused with false gods.

]]> Sun, 07 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2310 170 9c5accd73cd5ecd083538a6c5ef939ce no The Kinsman Redeemer Mike Gilbert Sun, 28 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2900 171 924bddfc85be4017cab2dc4247ee7714 no Three Ways of Doing All Things Frank Wood <p>Bro. Frank Wood shows from the Bible how each of us, through Christ alone, can—Accomplish, Endure, & Be—all things pleasing to Him.</p> <p>Bro. Frank Wood shows from the Bible how each of us, through Christ alone, can—Accomplish, Endure, & Be—all things pleasing to Him.</p> Bro. Frank Wood shows from the Bible how each of us, through Christ alone, can—Accomplish, Endure, & Be—all things pleasing to Him.

]]> Sun, 04 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2401 172 f67e6817bed42729fd245fb749ef47a5 no Choosing Sides Current Events Sun, 04 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2838 173 6d56358990d481150330d616b0b01ab1 no The Power & Love of Jesus Frank Wood <p>All our needs can be met through the power & love of Jesus by simply trusting Him.</p> <p>All our needs can be met through the power & love of Jesus by simply trusting Him.</p> All our needs can be met through the power & love of Jesus by simply trusting Him.

]]> Sun, 04 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2099 174 1181a9c238778273b584ddace59dff81 no Fruitless Errands Jeremy Gilbert <p>Bro. Jeremy Gilbert reveals to us the failure in our fruitless errands and activities, when all the while, we should be seeking the divine appointments our Lord has prepared for us.</p> <p>Bro. Jeremy Gilbert reveals to us the failure in our fruitless errands and activities, when all the while, we should be seeking the divine appointments our Lord has prepared for us.</p> Bro. Jeremy Gilbert reveals to us the failure in our fruitless errands and activities, when all the while, we should be seeking the divine appointments our Lord has prepared for us.

]]> Tue, 30 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2380 175 a03eeed17e34346f7109ffbc4f4d2253 no Fight the Good Fight Dan Preston <p>When the first major battle of the Civil War was fought at Bull Run, many politicians and socialites from Washington, D.C., treated it like a picnic. Certain the battle would be quick and painless, they packed baskets and watched from the hills—until the smoke, chaos, and terror of real war sent them running for their lives, leaving their comforts behind. They had mistaken a war for entertainment. In much the same way, many Christians treat the Christian life as something casual and comfortable, when Scripture tells us plainly: we are in a war. That is why Paul writes to Timothy with a clear command: “Fight the good fight”—not a petty or carnal fight, but a holy warfare for truth, holiness, and souls.</p> <p>When the first major battle of the Civil War was fought at Bull Run, many politicians and socialites from Washington, D.C., treated it like a picnic. Certain the battle would be quick and painless, they packed baskets and watched from the hills—until the smoke, chaos, and terror of real war sent them running for their lives, leaving their comforts behind. They had mistaken a war for entertainment. In much the same way, many Christians treat the Christian life as something casual and comfortable, when Scripture tells us plainly: we are in a war. That is why Paul writes to Timothy with a clear command: “Fight the good fight”—not a petty or carnal fight, but a holy warfare for truth, holiness, and souls.</p> When the first major battle of the Civil War was fought at Bull Run, many politicians and socialites from Washington, D.C., treated it like a picnic. Certain the battle would be quick and painless, they packed baskets and watched from the hills—until the smoke, chaos, and terror of real war sent them running for their lives, leaving their comforts behind. They had mistaken a war for entertainment. In much the same way, many Christians treat the Christian life as something casual and comfortable, when Scripture tells us plainly: we are in a war. That is why Paul writes to Timothy with a clear command: “Fight the good fight”—not a petty or carnal fight, but a holy warfare for truth, holiness, and souls.

]]> Sun, 28 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2724 176 69a6aca207ab4d0214d7a70cffc09383 no Entering Into Rest Dan Preston <p>If you look around our culture today, exhaustion is everywhere. We sleep less, talk about being tired more, and even our devices remind us to breathe, move, and rest. We take vacations only to come home needing another one. We know how to entertain ourselves and distract ourselves, but we don’t know how to rest. The truth is, the rest we’re longing for can’t be found in a weekend away, a full night’s sleep, or a quieter schedule. It’s deeper than that. Hebrews 4 speaks of a different kind of rest— God’s rest. A rest that is available right now, but not automatically entered. This morning, we will look at the ABC’s of Rest, not just to understand it, but so you can experience the rest Jesus came to give. Because if Jesus is better, and He is, then His rest is better than anything this world can offer.</p> <p>If you look around our culture today, exhaustion is everywhere. We sleep less, talk about being tired more, and even our devices remind us to breathe, move, and rest. We take vacations only to come home needing another one. We know how to entertain ourselves and distract ourselves, but we don’t know how to rest. The truth is, the rest we’re longing for can’t be found in a weekend away, a full night’s sleep, or a quieter schedule. It’s deeper than that. Hebrews 4 speaks of a different kind of rest— God’s rest. A rest that is available right now, but not automatically entered. This morning, we will look at the ABC’s of Rest, not just to understand it, but so you can experience the rest Jesus came to give. Because if Jesus is better, and He is, then His rest is better than anything this world can offer.</p> If you look around our culture today, exhaustion is everywhere. We sleep less, talk about being tired more, and even our devices remind us to breathe, move, and rest. We take vacations only to come home needing another one. We know how to entertain ourselves and distract ourselves, but we don’t know how to rest. The truth is, the rest we’re longing for can’t be found in a weekend away, a full night’s sleep, or a quieter schedule. It’s deeper than that. Hebrews 4 speaks of a different kind of rest— God’s rest. A rest that is available right now, but not automatically entered. This morning, we will look at the ABC’s of Rest, not just to understand it, but so you can experience the rest Jesus came to give. Because if Jesus is better, and He is, then His rest is better than anything this world can offer.

]]> Sun, 28 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2150 177 b8b6d51308f55b18de2a058afe94e5d0 no Christmas Eve Candlelight Service Dan Preston Wed, 24 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2878 178 360ca2fdc6dff3ba8a42d23f58feaecf no Christmas Is Jesus Mike Gilbert <p>Bro. Mike Gilbert consummately answers the question: What does the Bible really teach about Christmas?</p> <p>Bro. Mike Gilbert consummately answers the question: What does the Bible really teach about Christmas?</p> Bro. Mike Gilbert consummately answers the question: What does the Bible really teach about Christmas?

]]> Sun, 21 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2762 179 755c84c2a20e98848035223c81e4636e no The Deception of Distraction Cambrin Collins <p>Bro. Cambrin Collins warns against the danger of truth—through cunning subtility—being used to distract from truth.</p> <p>Bro. Cambrin Collins warns against the danger of truth—through cunning subtility—being used to distract from truth.</p> Bro. Cambrin Collins warns against the danger of truth—through cunning subtility—being used to distract from truth.

]]> Sun, 21 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1937 180 f27b158f8a359537701005ac4846cd83 no Right and Wrong Ways to Deal With the Future Dan Preston <p>Humanity has always been obsessed with knowing the future. From horoscopes to psychics, people crave certainty, guarantees, and control—and Christians are not immune. Dwight Pentecost observed that prophecy drew crowds, while holiness and daily obedience did not, yet nearly every New Testament passage on Christ’s return ends with the same call: be ready, live holy, walk with God. James addresses this very issue—not outspoken atheism, but practical atheism: planning and living as if God were irrelevant. The problem is not planning for tomorrow, but planning without God, and James shows us both the wrong and the right way to face the future.</p> <p>Humanity has always been obsessed with knowing the future. From horoscopes to psychics, people crave certainty, guarantees, and control—and Christians are not immune. Dwight Pentecost observed that prophecy drew crowds, while holiness and daily obedience did not, yet nearly every New Testament passage on Christ’s return ends with the same call: be ready, live holy, walk with God. James addresses this very issue—not outspoken atheism, but practical atheism: planning and living as if God were irrelevant. The problem is not planning for tomorrow, but planning without God, and James shows us both the wrong and the right way to face the future.</p> Humanity has always been obsessed with knowing the future. From horoscopes to psychics, people crave certainty, guarantees, and control—and Christians are not immune. Dwight Pentecost observed that prophecy drew crowds, while holiness and daily obedience did not, yet nearly every New Testament passage on Christ’s return ends with the same call: be ready, live holy, walk with God. James addresses this very issue—not outspoken atheism, but practical atheism: planning and living as if God were irrelevant. The problem is not planning for tomorrow, but planning without God, and James shows us both the wrong and the right way to face the future.

]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2082 181 924e614d101ddeafa89f4ce1b12fa3fd no What Child Is This? Sun, 14 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4498 182 a5980f69e61bf5647909f25b9a52433d no Back Home: Cannan Summary of Genesis (54) Mike Gilbert Sun, 14 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2751 183 1576f68778938f7a257b9f503f636cf5 no The Danger of Hardening Your Heart! <p>Warnings are one of the clearest expressions of God’s mercy. He speaks not to burden us, but to protect us. Yet one of humanity’s most persistent failures is that we often hear God’s warnings without truly responding to them. We delay, we assume there will be another chance, and over time the heart quietly begins to harden. Hebrews 3 confronts this danger head- on, calling God’s people—those who worship, profess faith, and people who started well but are in danger of drifting—to take seriously the urgency of His voice. Three times Scripture says, “Today,” and three times it pleads, “Harden not your hearts.” This is not a message for unbelievers; it is a sober and loving summons to believers who are drifting, doubting, or in danger of turning away.</p> <p>Warnings are one of the clearest expressions of God’s mercy. He speaks not to burden us, but to protect us. Yet one of humanity’s most persistent failures is that we often hear God’s warnings without truly responding to them. We delay, we assume there will be another chance, and over time the heart quietly begins to harden. Hebrews 3 confronts this danger head- on, calling God’s people—those who worship, profess faith, and people who started well but are in danger of drifting—to take seriously the urgency of His voice. Three times Scripture says, “Today,” and three times it pleads, “Harden not your hearts.” This is not a message for unbelievers; it is a sober and loving summons to believers who are drifting, doubting, or in danger of turning away.</p> Warnings are one of the clearest expressions of God’s mercy. He speaks not to burden us, but to protect us. Yet one of humanity’s most persistent failures is that we often hear God’s warnings without truly responding to them. We delay, we assume there will be another chance, and over time the heart quietly begins to harden. Hebrews 3 confronts this danger head- on, calling God’s people—those who worship, profess faith, and people who started well but are in danger of drifting—to take seriously the urgency of His voice. Three times Scripture says, “Today,” and three times it pleads, “Harden not your hearts.” This is not a message for unbelievers; it is a sober and loving summons to believers who are drifting, doubting, or in danger of turning away.

]]> Sun, 14 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1567 184 c2b8c98d1182d7d276c2d55a2211c81e no Living in Uncommon Grace! Dan Preston <p>Most Christians hear the word grace and think immediately of salvation. We think of the grace that found us when we were lost, the grace that forgave our sin, the grace that lifted us out of the pit and set our feet upon the Rock. We rejoice that “by grace are ye saved through faith.” And praise the Lord—that is gloriously true. But James wants us to know something else—something deeper. Grace is not just the doorway into the Christian life; grace is the daily oxygen of the Christian life. It is the strength of the weary, the cleansing of the sinful, the courage of the tempted, the comfort of the broken, and the victory of the humble. Grace is not God’s one-time gift; it is God’s ongoing flow. Our text tonight is a road map showing us how to live in that uncommon grace.</p> <p>Most Christians hear the word grace and think immediately of salvation. We think of the grace that found us when we were lost, the grace that forgave our sin, the grace that lifted us out of the pit and set our feet upon the Rock. We rejoice that “by grace are ye saved through faith.” And praise the Lord—that is gloriously true. But James wants us to know something else—something deeper. Grace is not just the doorway into the Christian life; grace is the daily oxygen of the Christian life. It is the strength of the weary, the cleansing of the sinful, the courage of the tempted, the comfort of the broken, and the victory of the humble. Grace is not God’s one-time gift; it is God’s ongoing flow. Our text tonight is a road map showing us how to live in that uncommon grace.</p> Most Christians hear the word grace and think immediately of salvation. We think of the grace that found us when we were lost, the grace that forgave our sin, the grace that lifted us out of the pit and set our feet upon the Rock. We rejoice that “by grace are ye saved through faith.” And praise the Lord—that is gloriously true. But James wants us to know something else—something deeper. Grace is not just the doorway into the Christian life; grace is the daily oxygen of the Christian life. It is the strength of the weary, the cleansing of the sinful, the courage of the tempted, the comfort of the broken, and the victory of the humble. Grace is not God’s one-time gift; it is God’s ongoing flow. Our text tonight is a road map showing us how to live in that uncommon grace.

]]> Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2042 185 08b07ab5e08cfff549901a440c73471c no God’s Goodness Regarding Those Who Serve Him in Faith Micah Dorr Sun, 07 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1611 186 896b5032249d19d0b6c7c50dbf3498e6 no El-e-lo’-he-Israel: God is the God of Israel Summary of Genesis (53) Mike Gilbert Sun, 07 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2670 187 7a7383b05033dd5b1057b4cfee3c7a06 no Consider Jesus! Dan Preston <p>When life breaks down, we often stare at our problems, analyze them, and worry over them—yet nothing changes. Like the driver who didn’t know how to fix his engine until Henry Ford stepped in, we forget to go to the One who made us. That’s the heart of our text this morning: stop looking everywhere else—consider Jesus. In a world chasing hope in a hundred places, true peace is found only when we fix our eyes on Christ.</p> <p>When life breaks down, we often stare at our problems, analyze them, and worry over them—yet nothing changes. Like the driver who didn’t know how to fix his engine until Henry Ford stepped in, we forget to go to the One who made us. That’s the heart of our text this morning: stop looking everywhere else—consider Jesus. In a world chasing hope in a hundred places, true peace is found only when we fix our eyes on Christ.</p> When life breaks down, we often stare at our problems, analyze them, and worry over them—yet nothing changes. Like the driver who didn’t know how to fix his engine until Henry Ford stepped in, we forget to go to the One who made us. That’s the heart of our text this morning: stop looking everywhere else—consider Jesus. In a world chasing hope in a hundred places, true peace is found only when we fix our eyes on Christ.

]]> Sun, 07 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1986 188 c189ccf6349d70efaca534b0bd5e2fb7 no Our Faith in God's Word (Part 2) David Wood <p>As Christians, we want to not only understand the process of receiving the Scriptures, but also strengthen our confidence in the Bible. If we truly understand the great lengths to which God went in order to communicate His Truth to mankind, we will respond by: </p><p>1. Giving His Word our attention through reading, memorizing, meditating, and placing a high priority on its teaching and preaching.</p><p>2. Giving His Word our submission through obedience and Scriptural living.</p><p><br></p> <p>As Christians, we want to not only understand the process of receiving the Scriptures, but also strengthen our confidence in the Bible. If we truly understand the great lengths to which God went in order to communicate His Truth to mankind, we will respond by: </p><p>1. Giving His Word our attention through reading, memorizing, meditating, and placing a high priority on its teaching and preaching.</p><p>2. Giving His Word our submission through obedience and Scriptural living.</p><p><br></p> As Christians, we want to not only understand the process of receiving the Scriptures, but also strengthen our confidence in the Bible. If we truly understand the great lengths to which God went in order to communicate His Truth to mankind, we will respond by:

1. Giving His Word our attention through reading, memorizing, meditating, and placing a high priority on its teaching and preaching.

2. Giving His Word our submission through obedience and Scriptural living.


]]> Sun, 23 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1967 189 6d09126af3a4a99255f175dd9830d0df no The Source of Conflict Dan Preston <p>Conflict is something we all know too well. We see it in the world—wars, political division, arguments at work or school—but it doesn’t stay “out there.” It comes into our homes, our marriages, our families, and even our churches. The real issue isn’t Washington, D.C.; it’s the human heart. James tells us that conflict begins with our desires. We want what we want, and when someone blocks our way, sparks fly. It may not result in violence, but it produces bitterness, broken relationships, and wounded churches. Even more serious, James says these selfish desires harm our prayer life. They poison both our relationships with others and our fellowship with God. So James cuts straight to the heart of the matter. Before peace can flow outward, our desires must be surrendered to the Lord. Only then can the conflict within us—and around us—begin to quiet.</p> <p>Conflict is something we all know too well. We see it in the world—wars, political division, arguments at work or school—but it doesn’t stay “out there.” It comes into our homes, our marriages, our families, and even our churches. The real issue isn’t Washington, D.C.; it’s the human heart. James tells us that conflict begins with our desires. We want what we want, and when someone blocks our way, sparks fly. It may not result in violence, but it produces bitterness, broken relationships, and wounded churches. Even more serious, James says these selfish desires harm our prayer life. They poison both our relationships with others and our fellowship with God. So James cuts straight to the heart of the matter. Before peace can flow outward, our desires must be surrendered to the Lord. Only then can the conflict within us—and around us—begin to quiet.</p> Conflict is something we all know too well. We see it in the world—wars, political division, arguments at work or school—but it doesn’t stay “out there.” It comes into our homes, our marriages, our families, and even our churches. The real issue isn’t Washington, D.C.; it’s the human heart. James tells us that conflict begins with our desires. We want what we want, and when someone blocks our way, sparks fly. It may not result in violence, but it produces bitterness, broken relationships, and wounded churches. Even more serious, James says these selfish desires harm our prayer life. They poison both our relationships with others and our fellowship with God. So James cuts straight to the heart of the matter. Before peace can flow outward, our desires must be surrendered to the Lord. Only then can the conflict within us—and around us—begin to quiet.

]]> Wed, 03 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2119 190 a75cabef90f7218a8af2d1abe6a9c32f no God’s Attitude Toward Gratitude Aaron Denson Sun, 30 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1760 191 a9bff31c0e28d26b582d62c0d291344f no A New Day Summary of Genesis (52) Mike Gilbert Sun, 30 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2470 192 c4b565b327d3fef5eb591b9803f9702d no No Need to Be Troubled Aaron Denson Sun, 30 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1548 193 7f1e7a1ac5462657fe8a339af683b14f no Our Faith in God's Word (Part 1) David Wood <p>As Christians, we want to not only understand the process of receiving the Scriptures, but also strengthen our confidence in the Bible. If we truly understand the great lengths to which God went in order to communicate His Truth to mankind, we will respond by: </p><p>1. Giving His Word our attention through reading, memorizing, meditating, and placing a high priority on its teaching and preaching.</p><p>2. Giving His Word our submission through obedience and Scriptural living.</p><p><br></p> <p>As Christians, we want to not only understand the process of receiving the Scriptures, but also strengthen our confidence in the Bible. If we truly understand the great lengths to which God went in order to communicate His Truth to mankind, we will respond by: </p><p>1. Giving His Word our attention through reading, memorizing, meditating, and placing a high priority on its teaching and preaching.</p><p>2. Giving His Word our submission through obedience and Scriptural living.</p><p><br></p> As Christians, we want to not only understand the process of receiving the Scriptures, but also strengthen our confidence in the Bible. If we truly understand the great lengths to which God went in order to communicate His Truth to mankind, we will respond by:

1. Giving His Word our attention through reading, memorizing, meditating, and placing a high priority on its teaching and preaching.

2. Giving His Word our submission through obedience and Scriptural living.


]]> Sun, 16 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1908 194 798846a99ad066f3847f63b312a09cd0 no Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise Dan Preston <p>There are moments in the Christian life when truth does more than inform the mind—it ignites the heart. This passage is one of those moments. Before Paul ever lifts his voice in praise, he walks us through the depths of his past and the heights of God’s mercy. He remembers who he was, he remembers what Christ has done, and the weight of that grace erupts into worship. His words are not polished theology for the classroom—they are the spontaneous overflow of a soul overwhelmed by mercy. And as we step into this verse tonight, we are invited to feel what Paul felt: that when grace is truly seen, worship is the only fitting response.</p> <p>There are moments in the Christian life when truth does more than inform the mind—it ignites the heart. This passage is one of those moments. Before Paul ever lifts his voice in praise, he walks us through the depths of his past and the heights of God’s mercy. He remembers who he was, he remembers what Christ has done, and the weight of that grace erupts into worship. His words are not polished theology for the classroom—they are the spontaneous overflow of a soul overwhelmed by mercy. And as we step into this verse tonight, we are invited to feel what Paul felt: that when grace is truly seen, worship is the only fitting response.</p> There are moments in the Christian life when truth does more than inform the mind—it ignites the heart. This passage is one of those moments. Before Paul ever lifts his voice in praise, he walks us through the depths of his past and the heights of God’s mercy. He remembers who he was, he remembers what Christ has done, and the weight of that grace erupts into worship. His words are not polished theology for the classroom—they are the spontaneous overflow of a soul overwhelmed by mercy. And as we step into this verse tonight, we are invited to feel what Paul felt: that when grace is truly seen, worship is the only fitting response.

]]> Sun, 23 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1757 195 1c6dca6916065951d924abe8e1cfda6b no The Captain of Our Salvation <p>When we consider the greatness of God—His power in creation, His glory displayed in the heavens, His command over the stars—it’s hard not to wonder, “Why would a God so vast care about someone like me?” Yet Scripture assures us that He does. The writer of Hebrews takes this truth even further, showing that the God who crafted galaxies also stepped into our world through His Son, Jesus Christ. In this passage, we see that Jesus didn’t simply visit humanity—He came with purpose. In our text this morning, we will see four key reasons why Christ left heaven’s splendor, took on our humanity, and entered into our suffering.</p> <p>When we consider the greatness of God—His power in creation, His glory displayed in the heavens, His command over the stars—it’s hard not to wonder, “Why would a God so vast care about someone like me?” Yet Scripture assures us that He does. The writer of Hebrews takes this truth even further, showing that the God who crafted galaxies also stepped into our world through His Son, Jesus Christ. In this passage, we see that Jesus didn’t simply visit humanity—He came with purpose. In our text this morning, we will see four key reasons why Christ left heaven’s splendor, took on our humanity, and entered into our suffering.</p> When we consider the greatness of God—His power in creation, His glory displayed in the heavens, His command over the stars—it’s hard not to wonder, “Why would a God so vast care about someone like me?” Yet Scripture assures us that He does. The writer of Hebrews takes this truth even further, showing that the God who crafted galaxies also stepped into our world through His Son, Jesus Christ. In this passage, we see that Jesus didn’t simply visit humanity—He came with purpose. In our text this morning, we will see four key reasons why Christ left heaven’s splendor, took on our humanity, and entered into our suffering.

]]> Sun, 23 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1948 196 d8a301b23f4ebb7710669aa6e92c4da1 no God is On Your Side as We Face Troubles of this Life Mike Gilbert <p>Bro. Mike Gilbert gives five biblical examples of how God works in the lives of His children, even after they depart His path and go their own way. First is Abraham & Pharaoh; then Abraham & Abimelech; then Jacob & Laban; then the disciples of the Lord & Saul, their persecutor; and finally, the righteous & the unrighteous gentiles of the tribulation period.</p> <p>Bro. Mike Gilbert gives five biblical examples of how God works in the lives of His children, even after they depart His path and go their own way. First is Abraham & Pharaoh; then Abraham & Abimelech; then Jacob & Laban; then the disciples of the Lord & Saul, their persecutor; and finally, the righteous & the unrighteous gentiles of the tribulation period.</p> Bro. Mike Gilbert gives five biblical examples of how God works in the lives of His children, even after they depart His path and go their own way. First is Abraham & Pharaoh; then Abraham & Abimelech; then Jacob & Laban; then the disciples of the Lord & Saul, their persecutor; and finally, the righteous & the unrighteous gentiles of the tribulation period.

]]> Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2596 197 a26bf39edc6dba3db026420fcc115e12 no