Purpose, Power, And Peace podcast

15:39

Do you ever wonder how you will ever make it through your problems? Have you tried one thing after another and seem to fail each time. Do you sometimes believe that no one understands or really cares that you are suffering? Do you question if God is listening to your prayers? If that is how you think and feel, today’s episode will give you hope and a new perspective on life. In the difficulties of life, we sometimes focus more on our own pain and suffering than on the God who heals, delivers, and restores. In order to access the power you need to overcome your battles, this order must be reversed. The focus should be more on God who has the power to help you overcome than on yourself, the situation or your own lack and insufficiency. Peter 5:6 instructs us to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God and he will exalt us in due time. This means no matter what your situation or circumstance you are to trust God, be patient, and wait on his timing and his means of helping you through. Zechariah 4:6 declares that it is.”Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.” In other words there are limitations to our human efforts. Some things must be fought in the spiritual realm where God has the power to overcome the forces of darkness and you can be empowered to accomplish his purpose in your situation. The following Bible based affirmations will remind you that you have all you need to overcome your problems and achieve victory. Rehearse and recite them as often as you can. They will strengthen your faith and bring power to your walk with Christ. Tell yourself: 1.God knows me “O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thoughts afar off.” Psalm 139:1-2 KJV “Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; And in thy book all my members were written, Which in continuance were fashioned, When as yet there was none of them.” Psalm 139:16 KJV 2.God loves me “ But God demonstrates his own love towards us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 NKJV 3.God hears me “In my distress I called upon the Lord, And cried out to my God; He heard my voice from His temple, And my cry came before Him, even to His ears.” Psalms 18:6 John 5:14 says “Now this is the confidence that we have in him that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us and if we know that he hears us whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of him.” 4.God is with me “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”” Joshua 1:9 NKJV 2 Corinthians 1:20 states, for all the promises of God in him are yes and in him, amen to the glory of God through us. 5.God fights for me “The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.”” Exodus 14:14 NKJV You know God fights for you because he has fought for his people from the beginning of time. He fought for the children of Israel to release them from bondage in Egypt. He fought for king David when,as a child, he confronted and killed a giant with a stone and a slingshot. He fought for Daniel in the Lion’s den. He fought for Paul and Silas when they were in prison, sang songs and prayed and were freed. He fought for you when you were in sin and he brought you to salvation. He is still fighting for you. 6.God will make a way for me “Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:19 KJV Jeremiah 29:11 NIV says “ for I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord plans to prosper you and not to harm you plans to give you hope and a future.” These six affirmations have the power to transform your mind and create a power shift to accomplish God‘s will for your life. Romans 12:2 states “And be not conformed to this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” They bring truth to the situation and allow you to place your faulty thoughts and negative emotions beneath the truth of God‘s word and the power given you through the Holy Spirit. Therefore, you can trust God to see you through your hard times and confidently follow his lead. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 Matthew 16:24 “Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
Sing the Lord’s Song When Times Get Tough, Keep Your Focus, and Follow Christ 16:31

15 giorni fa16:31

16:31

I. Sing the Lord’s song through suffering. It brings power, hope, freedom, and peace. Psalm 137 is a psalm expressing grief and sorrow about the Israelite's captivity. They were so discouraged and depressed they wept and hung their musical instruments that were used to praise God up in the trees Psalm 137:2-4 “We hanged our harps Upon the willows in the midst thereof. For there they that carried us away captive required of us a song; And they that wasted us required of us mirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion.” It goes on to say “How shall we sing The LORD's song in a strange land?” A foreign land can be your suffering, loss, grief or other troubles. Singing can be seen as your activities that lift up Christ and demonstrate faith in God’s power to deliver, heal, and restore you. David wrote and sang songs to God while hiding in caves in the mountains while he was hunted down by King Saul and later being pursued by his own son Absalom who wanted to kill him. Another example is Paul and Silas. They sang and praised God while being held in prison. According to scripture, while they sang and praised God, the chains fell off, the prison doors swung open and they were freed. Acts 16:25-26 NLT Singing the Lord’s song in hard times means you live like you serve a God who is able and faithful to deliver you. In a literal practical sense, you can sing the Lord’s song in many ways. Eight ways to sing the Lord’s song through difficulties, struggle, pain, and suffering: 1. Stop seeking comfort and start seeking God “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”Matthew 6:33 2. Thank and praise God through the suffering and pain “I will bless the LORD at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Psalm 34:1 KJV 3. Go on with your life and obey God “Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, unto all that are carried away captives, whom I have caused to be carried away from Jerusalem unto Babylon; Build ye houses, and dwell in them; and plant gardens, and eat the fruit of them; take ye wives, and beget sons and daughters, and take wives for your sons, and give your daughters to husbands, that they may bear sons and daughters; that ye may be increased there, and not diminished. And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.” Jeremiah 29:4-7 KJV 4. Trust God and have faith that he will deliver and heal you “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV 5. Shift your focus from the pain to the presence of God “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Joshua 1:9 KJV 6.Forgive, show love, and serve others “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” Matthew 22:37-39 KJV 7. Follow the example of Christ My sheep hear my voice and I know them and they follow me. John 10:27 8. Use your gifts, talents, skills and abilities to honor God and to advance the kingdom of God “And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more. His Lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:20-21 KJV Sing the Lord’s song in trouble and despair, Through it all God will strengthen and deliver you. “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: But the LORD delivereth him out of them all.” Psalm 34:19 KJV…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
When You Feel Like Giving Up , Go on with God and Walk the Walk of Faith 22:25

22 giorni fa22:25

22:25

Are you battling difficult problems right now? Are you struggling to hold on mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually? Have you tried and tried to get what you need but you seem to be blocked on every side? Do you sometimes question whether or not life is even worth all the pain and misery? if you answered yes to any of these questions, this episode gives eight principles to help you walk with God in peace and power as you overcome the hardships in your life. If you find yourself in a similar place now or in the future, listen to the still small voice within you that says go on with God anyway. Even if you don’t see God working, Even if you don’t feel God’s presence; even if you feel broken and lost, go on with God. Your faith and trust in him must remain steadfast in the face of trouble. You may not understand why you have to go through so much: Believe that God has a purpose and a plan. Isaiah 55:8 says “For my thoughts are not your thoughts nor your ways my ways says the Lord.” God is a spirit. You will never be able to fully comprehend his ways or his plans with human understanding. Exodus 14:14 declares the Lord will fight for you and you shall hold your peace.” If you belong to the Lord he has heard your cries and will deliver you. The Pursuit of Peace, Letting Go of Anxiety, Worry, and Fear, Mary Ann Echols, PhD I too had to make a decision to go on with God. God has been faithful and true to his word. The battles you fight are: 1)situational or circumstantial, 2) thoughts and emotions, and 3) spiritual The attacks against you are no match for the power of God in your life. Isaiah 54:17 “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, And every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And their righteousness is from Me,” Jeremiah 32:27. “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” Psalm 118:6 The Lord is on my side. I will not fear; what can man do unto me? These things I have spoken unto you that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation, but be a good cheer; I have overcome the world. Go on with God. He is fighting for you. You can let go of the turmoil in your life and go on with God by walking the walk of faith. It not about just knowing God or what he can do. It is mostly about putting one foot in front of the other and pressing on despite the trouble in your life, you do this by walking in faith. If you want to overcome the hardships in your life and go on with God, you must walk the walk of faith. Here are eight principles that will help you understand what you must do in order to walk the walk of faith. Walk the Walk of Faithful 1. Study and apply the word of God 2. Pray with faith and expectation 3. Nurture your relationship with Christ and abide in him 4. Know and apply the promises of God 5. Follow the leading of the Holy Spirit 6. Conquer fear and anxiety with faith and the word of God 7. Guard your heart and mind 8. Praise and thank God in every circumstance and situation…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
Embrace Your Process of Change and Spiritual Growth. Find Your Purpose 19:44

29 giorni fa19:44

19:44

1. Plan God’s plan for your life existed long before you were born. God’s plan is for your good and he will reveal it to you.: For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” John 16:13 KJV “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” Psalm 32:8 KJV 2. Presence You can discover God's plan for your life and what he is calling you to do by seeking his presence. In the presence of God you find what you need to live life on purpose and fulfill God’s plan. “And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13 KJV The presence of God will give you a place of refuge and safety “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: My God; in him will I trust.”Psalm 91:1-2 KJV The presence of God will reveal who God is and who you are in him. You will know that there is nothing you cannot accomplish that is within his will and his plan for your life. This will help guide your choices, decisions and actions. “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” Jeremiah 32:27 KJV 3.Purpose A close relationship with Christ and study of the word of God will reveal your purpose which is first to love and serve God and advance the kingdom of God. “Those who do wickedly against the covenant he shall corrupt with flattery; but the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.” Daniel 11:32 NKJV “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 22:37-39 KJV “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” Micah 6:8 KJV “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 KJV 4. Power You have been given power by God through the Holy Spirit to accomplish all that God has called you to do. God’s plan for your life has always included giving you power to accomplish his will. The Holy Spirit fills God’s servants and empowerment them to speak truth and glorify God. This makes way for the drawing of all people to the Lord. “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judæa, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Acts 1:8 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 KJV “Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.” Zechariah 4:6 KJV 5. Provision God is your provider. He equips you and gives everything you need to accomplish his purpose for your life. You were uniquely gifted with skills, talent, skills and abilities for the call God has placed on your life. What he has given you supersedes any perceived lack or weakness. because scripture tells us that his strength is made perfect in weakness. Indeed one of the names of God is Jehovah Jireh, which means the Lord provides. You must use and multiply what God has given you as illustrated by the parable of the talents found in Matthew chapter 25. God will provide for all of our needs but we must put him first “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33 KJV “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19 KJV God has ordered your steps as stated in Psalms 37:23. Walk in those steps according to his plan, presence, purpose, power and provision.…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
Wait on God. He is Still Working on Your Behalf 17:00

8 weeks fa17:00

17:00

God Answers Prayer John 15:7 says if ye abide in me and my words abide in you, he shall ask what he will and it shall be done unto you.” 1 John 5: 14-15 says and this is the confidence that we have in him that if we ask anything according to his, will he heareth us and if we know that he hear us whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” A yes answer, a no answer, or a wait answer are all equally to the advantage of those who call on God. They all have the potential to grow you in Christ and to advance the kingdom of God. God knows what is best. He knows what we need and doesn’t need. He also knows the plans of the enemy to trap. deceive and destroy us. Unanswered prayer may in the end be a protection from future hurt, harm or danger. Here are some things to consider when prayers seem to go unanswered When the answer is no. Isaiah 55:9 tells us “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. Jeremiah 17:9 tells us “The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked. Who can know? Proverbs 16.25 days “There is a way that seemeth right into a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” When the answer is wait. Philippians 1:6 declares “ being confident of this very thing that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:3 and not only so, but we glory in tribulations also knowing that tribulation work with the patience and patience experience and experience, hope and hope make it not ashamed because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost, which is given unto you.” When the answer is yes. When God blesses you with a yes, to your prayers, it is important to praise and thank him, testify of his goodness and faithfulness. and use it for the glory of God. There is no wasted action on God’s part. We must use what he gave us and multiply it by doing good. This is illustrated by the parable of the talents in Matthew chapter 25. Use what God has given you. When you thank and praise him, testify of his goodness and glorify him, others are drawn to him and the kingdom of God is advanced. Don’t be silent when God blesses you. Let it grow and multiply to bring glory to God. Hebrews 11:6 tells us “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Have a Godly mindset in prayer. Your prayer requests and answers to prayers are less important than the state of your heart and spirit. Some guides to follow as you wait for your prayers to be answered 1. Be transformed in your mind And be not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” Romans 12:2 a. Seek the heart and mind of Christ in prayer and the Word of God. b. Seek God’s will over your own c. Nurture your faith 2. Trust God by applying his Promises to the situation Trust in the Lord with all the heart, and not until they own understanding in all that ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths Proverbs 3:5-6 a. His plan is for our good b. His promises are yes and Amen (2 Corinthians 1:20) c. Don’t rely on your own understanding 3. Put God first. Surrender to God’s will But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33 a. Stop struggling and stressing b. Believe all things work together for your good c. Surrender the process and the outcome 4. Wait and be still in God’sPresence. But they that way upon the Lord shall renew their strength they shall mount up with wings as equals they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 a. Don’t give up. Wait With expectation b. Stop trying to fix it c Listen to hear God speak and receive what you need from him (comfort, courage, strength, etc.)…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
Don’t Limit God. Don’t Stop Praying. Your Prayers Can Accomplish Much. 14:08

9 weeks fa14:08

14:08

Approach Prayer with a godly mindset God Hears your prayers and wants to give you good things within his will “Therefore I will look unto the Lord. I will wait for the God of my salvation: My God will hear me” Micah 7:7 “He that spared not his own son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” Romans 8:32 God has the power to accomplish miracles in your life. “Behold I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: Is there anything too hard for me?” Jeremiah 32:27 God can make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19 Pray that God’s will be done. Surrender all to him. Seek to glorify God in your prayers.Ask big, because you serve a big God. Six criteria (self-questions) to maintain a Godly mindset in prayer: 1. Does your request line up with God’s word? Examine your motives. “Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, tht ye may consume it upon your lusts. James 4:3 “And this is the confidence that we have in him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he heareth us: and if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him” 1 John 5:14-15 2. Have you made a passionate, persistent, consistent plea? “Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus Concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 3. Are you seeking God about everything that concerns your request? “But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness: and all these things shall be added unto you” Matthew 6;33 “And ye shall seek me and find me when ye shall search for me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29;13 4. Have you surrendered your will to God’s will? “Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will but thy will be done, Luke 22:42 5. Are you praying and waiting with faith and expectation? Fight the anxiety and fear and replace it with faith. Thanking him before you see results reaffirms your trust and faith in God. “Therefore I say unto you, what things soever you desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” Mark 11:24 6. Are you thanking and praising him for the answer, sight unseen? “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. For by it, the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the world was framed by the word of God, so that things with are seen were not made of things with do appear.” Hebrews 11:1-3…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
Life Is Sometimes Hard, But God Is Faithful. He Will Not Fail You 21:54

12 weeks fa21:54

21:54

We sometimes must deal with hard things in life. Are you struggling with sickness, mental illness, addictions, family issues, marital problems, broken relationships? God is your helper in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. John 16:33 These things have I spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. 2 Corinthians 4:8-10 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cut down, but not destroyed; always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. Truths Regarding God’s Faithfulness 1. Give up control. Put it all in God’s hands. Proverbs 3;5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy way acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths Trying to fix it all by yourself with your limited knowledge is not trusting God, 2. Shift your focus from the problem to the God who knows you, loves you, and provides for you. Colossians 3:2 (Msg) So, if you’re serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it Pursue the things over which Christ presides. Don’t shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with things right in front of you. Look up and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that’s where the action is. See things from his perspective. Shifting your focus will give you peace and increase your faith 3. Confront the worry Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. How to deal with worry and negative thinking Catch It 2 Corinthians 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. Check it Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not be ashamed Rightly dividing the word of truth How do you check it? Self Questioning 1. What does the bible say about it? 2. Am I following my emotions or the Spirit of God? 3. Am I making it all about me than the will of God? 4. Have I surrendered or am I struggling for control? Change it Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind that ye might prove what is that good and acceptable will of God 4. Do it God’s Way. Surrender, Obey, and Submit Surrender: Matthew 11:28-30 Obey God’s word: James 1:22 Submit to God’s will: Luke 22: 5. Apply the promises of God (Numbers 23:19)…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
Walk In Freedom, Power and Peace Part IV: Receive Your Healing for Grief, Trauma ad Abuse 20:30

13 weeks fa20:30

20:30

Are you seeking healing for grief, trauma, or abuse? Have you applied biblical principles to your situation? Are you trusting God’s process and pressing on despite the struggle? If so, the next step in your journey is to maintain your progress and grow stronger in your walk with Christ. Today we will give you four ways to help ensure that you leave the past behind and live and walk in freedom. 1. Allow the Holy Spirit to lead and guide you. He is the Comforter. (John 14:16) He guides us into truth. (John 16:13) He empowers you. (Zechariah 4:6) 2. Nurture your spirit. Increase your private, intimate time with the Lord It is essential to have personal private time with the Lord so you can pray and open your spiritual ears to hear his voice and obey his commands. (John 10:27 NKJV). Intimacy requires that you abide in Christ (John 15:7) You will know and believe that If you are a new creation. 2 Corinthians 5:17. Ephesians 2:10 Seek God with all. Your heart (Jeremiah 29:13 ) 3. Practice self-care. You must be diligent and intentional about caring for yourself, even if you believe no one else cares. 1 Corinthians 6:19 Nurture your spirit. Read and meditate on the word of God daily. Psalm 1:1-3 You care for yourself mentally and emotionally by guarding your heart. Proverbs 4: 23 Philippians 4:8 4. Forgive those who hurt or offend you. Matthew 18:21 Mark 11:23 Romans 12:19 When you forgive, you let yourself off the hook. You no longer live with the heavy baggage of resentment, anger, or hatred. You become free to serve God in truth and love. When you forgive you choose your own peace of mind over allowing yourself to be controlled by those who hurt you or by your own emotions. When you forgive, you choose to show love and give grace to others as Christ gave to you.…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
Press on and Pursue God in the Struggle Part III Receive Your Healing for Grief, Trauma and Abuse 18:13

14 weeks fa18:13

18:13

The Apostle Paul described what it means to press on in Christ Jesus in Philippians 3:13-14. Spiritual strategies for pressing on through the struggle; 1.Live and walk in the revealed truth of God. John 8:32 Romans 10:17 Psalm 32:8. John 12:32 2.Allow God to transform you. Romans 12:2 When you are transformed, you will move from fear to faith. 2 Timothy 1:7 Hebrews 11:1 When you are transformed you move from defeat to power. Exodus 17 When you are transformed you, you also move from victim to overcomer Psalms 91:5-9 Jeemiah 32:27 3.Wait with Expectation Ecclesiastes 3:1-9 Isaiah 55:9 Philippians 4:6-7 4. Seek God’s will over your own Romans 5:3-5 (Message Translation) Luke 22 42 Luke 9:23 5. Use of your gifts, talents, skills and abilities I Corinthians 10:31 Remember Moses who felt inadequate and incapable of leadership led the Israelites to freedom; Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, but. was elevated to leadership in Egypt and provided for his family and his people during a famine; Joshua followed God’s instruction, circled Jericho, and the walls of the city came down. David when only a boy, was called by God to become a king. Daniel refused to bow down to the king and was protected and saved from death in a lion’s den. Peter, by faith, walked on water during a storm, Paul and Silas were thrown into prison, prayed and worshipped God and the prison doors opened and they were freed. In each of these situations, God used imperfect people during struggle to accomplish his purpose.…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
Trust the Process: Part II Receive Your Healing for Grief, Trauma and Abuse 16:38

15 weeks fa16:38

16:38

Have you been trying to get beyond past hurt, trauma, or abuse? Do you have longstanding grief over losing a loved one? Have you tried to forget and move on to no avail? If so, today we will share seven steps of faith and action that will strengthen you and help you to move forward through the healing process. Philippians 4:8 instructs: “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-meditate on these things.” Action step 1: Pray. Tell God all About it, Hold Nothing Back . Psalm 46:1 declares “God is our refuge and our strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 51:6 says ” Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: And in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.” Action Step 2: Open up and uncover the hurt and pain. Jeremiah 17:9 warns “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” John 14:16-17: Promises ”And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another comforter, that he may abide with you forever; even the spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth in you. 1 Peter 5:7(Amplified Version) describes this as “Casting all your cares (all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all) on him, for he cares about you with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully Action Step 3: Invite God into your suffering. Isaiah 6:1 “In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of his robe filled the temple.” The significance of the train of the robe filling the temple is that it symbolizes God’s authority, power and might. God has authority and power over everything. There is no greater power. Jeremiah 32:27 says “Behold I am the. God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for me? Action Step 4: Know and Believe That God will fight for you. 1 Samuel 17:47 David shouted “And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands. By the power of God David killed the giant with just a sling shot, because it was God’s fight. He delivered David and the people from the Philistine giant. He will be faithful to deliver you from your giants as well. Exodus 14:14 “The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.” They were able to cross to the other side on dry ground Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted on the earth” (NIV). Action Step 5. Tear Down the Strongholds in Your Life. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 declares “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;” Romans 12:2 tells us “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Action Step 6. Surrender the hurt, anger and fear daily for however long it takes. 1 Peter 5:6-7 says “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” Surrender the pain to God, surrender the thoughts and memories to God, surrender the healing into God’s powerful hands. Action Step 7. Thank and praise God for his mercy and grace. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Philippians 4:6 “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
Receive Your Healing for Grief, Trauma and Abuse 23:35

17 weeks fa23:35

23:35

If you are experiencing grief, or living with the effects of trauma or abuse, you can be empowered to live with your loss, work through your heartache and regain your strength, hope, and peace. Most individuals who experience these problems can benefit from seeking appropriate professional help. This is highly recommended when the emotional distress negatively impacts functioning. For the Christian, the Bible is the most reliable and definitive resource for self-care. God has given instructions in his word for dealing with mental and emotional distress. Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Extreme distressing emotions are often unreliable. Jeremiah 17:9 states “The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked: “Who can know it?” Ephesians 6:12 “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Three of the most damaging lies and deceptions perpetrated against the people who have been traumatized, or abused are thoughts that they are inadequate, unworthy, or unlovable You are more than adequate. Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” You are worthy because Christ made you worthy. Romans 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. If you believe you are unloved or unlovable, this fosters a sense of rejection and detachment from others. Yet the word of God declares “But God commended his love toward us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. You did not have to be perfect or do all the right things. God loves you regardless. You are loved unconditionally by God. Romans 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Foundational Principles for Healing and Recovery 1. Principal One: Fear cannot protect you. It holds you in bondage. You must have faith in and act on the promises of God. 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2. Principle Two: Know and believe that you are not alone. Joshua 1:9 “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” 3. Principle Three: Know and believe that God is doing a new thing. Isaiah 43:19 “Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” 4.Make a commitment to God and yourself to receive the healing and freedom God has promised you. Isaiah 53:5 It is important to remember that healing may not look the way you think it should. Regardless of what it looks like, you can trust that God has a plan, and he knows what is best. Isaiah 55:8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” In summary, you can receive healing from grief, trauma, and abuse. God has a plan. However, you must first embrace foundational principles of healing which include relying on the promises of; knowing and believing that you are not alone; understanding that God is doing a new thing in your life; and believing in the healing power of God.…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
God Is Still God 19:54

18 weeks fa19:54

19:54

Where Was God When I Needed Him? God was there all the time: Have not I commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9) We must remind ourselves of who God is: God is love (1 John 4:16) God is our Heavenly Father (Romans 8:16) God is faithful (1 Corinthians 1:9) God is a promise keeper (Revelations 22:13) God is the Alpha and the Omega (Revelations 22:13) God is the author and finisher of your faith (Hebrews 12:2) God is your provider (Philippians 4:19 God is your healer (Psalms 103:2) God is your protector (Psalm 91:9-10) God is your refuge and your strength (Psalm 46:1) God is still the same God since the beginning of time as we know it: Before the mountains were brought forth, Or ever You had formed the earth and the world, Eve from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. Psalms 90:2 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8 Why bad things happen to good people: Original sin of Adam and Eve Genesis 3 God cares about your suffering: For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. (Hebrews 4:15) Likewise, the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.(Romans 8:26) God is always working on your behalf: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
You Can Rise Above Your Circumstances 17:10

20 weeks fa17:10

17:10

There are four principles from the Bible that will help you overcome challenges and even rise above your circumstances. These four principles are really actions you should take to gain victory over a problem. They are 1) Be transformed in your mind; 2)Trust God; 3) Persist in Prayer; and 4) Seek God’s Presence. Be Transformed. You rise above your circumstances. By allowing God to transform you. You start to think and behave in accordance with the will of God. Romans 12:2. The need to think and behave as God directs is clearly stated in the Bible. God does not think the way we think, and his ways are not our ways. Isaiah 55: 8-9 Trust God When we Trust God, we have a firm belief in who he is, what he says, and what he will do. You must change your focus from your own understanding by seeking and trusting God. Your focus will then shift from your own limited capabilities to God’s unlimited power. Proverbs 3:5-6. if things don’t change right away, you can still have God’s power and strength to wait till the change comes. Trusting God makes you strong and powerful. Psalms 125:1, Persist in prayer You must pray earnestly and persistently, with faith. Tell God all about it. Seek his direction and his help. Philippians 4:6-7 When you pray, you are not informing God. You are drawing close to him, trusting God, and demonstrating faith in his promises. Pray and speak the promises of God over yourself and your situation. 2 Corinthians 1:20 Seek God’s Presence The courage, strength, and confidence you need to meet any challenge of life is found in the presence of God. If we seek him we find him. When we find him we find all of who he including his power to change things. Jeremiah 29:13; Isaiah 55:6; Psalm 16:11 Your circumstances can’t hold you back unless you allow it. They can’t destroy what God has created within you for his purpose. Jeremiah 29:11…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
Make Room For God 15:34

22 weeks fa15:34

15:34

What does it really mean to make room for God? It means you seek God’s will and not your own. You defer to his agenda. This may require you to wait patiently to hear him speak to you. This enables you to enter his presence with faith and thanksgiving and receive direction to follow his plan for your kingdom purpose. Here are five points to help you make room for God: 1. Seek God first, over everything else. Jeremiah 29:13 “And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.” 2. Be still in God’s presence. Quiet your mind, reduce distraction and open your mind and emotions to his power and authority over everything. Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.” 3. Talk to the Lord about all things that concern you, both large and small and listen to hear God speak. Philippians 4:6-7 KJV “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” 4. Follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. Go where he tells you to go and do what he tells you to do. Romans 8:14 “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” 5. Use your gifts, talents, skills, and abilities to serve the kingdom of God. Search out ways to use what God has given you to bless others at home, work, church, your community, and with family and friends. Colossians 3:17 “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.”…

Purpose, Power, and Peace

1
Believe It And Receive It 15:05

25 weeks fa15:05