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Daily Devotional By A Word From The Lord with Archbishop Foley Beach
Episodes
Thursday Dec 26, 2024
Thursday Dec 26, 2024
This Christmas, Dr. Beach Reminds Us of the Profound Mystery at the Heart of Our Faith - God Entering the World as a Baby; Even in Today’s World of Personal Struggles and Global Conflicts
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
As we gather to celebrate Christmas, we're reminded of the profound mystery at the heart of our faith: God entering the world as a baby. This audacious claim, which may seem incredible to modern ears, is the cornerstone of our belief. In the midst of personal struggles and global conflicts, the Christmas message brings hope and transformation. It reminds us that no matter what challenges we face, God's love breaks into our world, offering forgiveness, redemption, and the promise of eternal life.
The nativity story isn't just a historical event; it's a powerful reminder that God meets us in our pain and suffering, offering a path to healing and restoration. As we reflect on this miracle, let's open our hearts to the transformative power of Christ's birth and allow it to renew our faith and perspective on life's difficulties.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: 1) The birth of Jesus: a) Luke 2:1-7 (The nativity story) and b) Matthew 1:18-25 (The birth of Jesus) 2) God becoming human: a) John 1:14 "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." and b) Philippians 2:6-7 "Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness."; 3) Jesus' ministry and miracles: Matthew 4:23 "Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people."; 4) Forgiveness of sins and eternal life: a) John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." and b) John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."; 5) God's presence in suffering: Romans 8:38-39 "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." and 6) The transformative power of faith: 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!".
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH’S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch
Wednesday Dec 25, 2024
Wednesday Dec 25, 2024
This Christmas, Dr. Beach Reminds Us of Our Faith’s Paradox - In a World Filled with Both Joy and Suffering, the Miraculous Story of God Becoming Human Stands as a Beacon of Hope
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
As we gather to celebrate Christmas, we're reminded of the profound paradox at the heart of our faith. In a world filled with joy and suffering, the miraculous story of God becoming human stands as a beacon of hope. This audacious claim—that the Creator of the universe entered our world as a helpless infant—challenges our understanding and invites us to embrace a deeper truth. The Nativity story isn't just a historical event; it's a powerful symbol of God's love and commitment to humanity. In the midst of personal struggles, global conflicts, and widespread persecution, the Christmas message reminds us that we're not alone. God's incarnation in Jesus offers us the promise of transformation, forgiveness, and eternal life. As we reflect on this incredible gift, we're called to see beyond our current circumstances and recognize the divine presence that can bring healing and hope to even the darkest situations.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: 1) The birth of Jesus: a) Luke 2:1-7 (The nativity story) and b) Matthew 1:18-25 (The birth of Jesus) 2) God becoming human: a) John 1:14 "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." and b) Philippians 2:6-7 "Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness."; 3) Jesus' ministry and miracles: Matthew 4:23 "Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people."; 4) Forgiveness of sins and eternal life: a) John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." and b) John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."; 5) God's presence in suffering: Romans 8:38-39 "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." and 6) The transformative power of faith: 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!".
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH’S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch
Tuesday Dec 24, 2024
Tuesday Dec 24, 2024
This Christmas, Dr. Beach Reminds Us of the Profound Mystery at the Heart of Our Faith - God Entering the World as a Baby; Even in Today’s World of Personal Struggles and Global Conflicts
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
As we gather to celebrate Christmas, we're reminded of the profound mystery at the heart of our faith: God entering the world as a baby. This audacious claim, which may seem incredible to modern ears, is the cornerstone of our belief. In the midst of personal struggles and global conflicts, the Christmas message brings hope and transformation. It reminds us that no matter what challenges we face, God's love breaks into our world, offering forgiveness, redemption, and the promise of eternal life.
The nativity story isn't just a historical event; it's a powerful reminder that God meets us in our pain and suffering, offering a path to healing and restoration. As we reflect on this miracle, let's open our hearts to the transformative power of Christ's birth and allow it to renew our faith and perspective on life's difficulties.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: 1) The birth of Jesus: a) Luke 2:1-7 (The nativity story) and b) Matthew 1:18-25 (The birth of Jesus) 2) God becoming human: a) John 1:14 "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." and b) Philippians 2:6-7 "Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness."; 3) Jesus' ministry and miracles: Matthew 4:23 "Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people."; 4) Forgiveness of sins and eternal life: a) John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." and b) John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."; 5) God's presence in suffering: Romans 8:38-39 "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." and 6) The transformative power of faith: 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!".
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH’S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch
Tuesday Dec 24, 2024
Tuesday Dec 24, 2024
Today, We Are Reminded of the Genealogy that Isn't Just a List of Names; It's a Testament to God's Faithfulness Throughout History
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
As we journey through Advent, we're invited to explore the profound lineage of Jesus Christ, tracing His roots from Adam to the Messiah. This genealogy isn't just a list of names; it's a testament to God's faithfulness throughout history. We see how God worked through imperfect people - from Rahab to King David - to bring about His perfect plan. This reminds us that our own flaws and failures don't disqualify us from being part of God's story.
As we reflect on this lineage, we're challenged to consider our place in God's ongoing narrative. How might God be using our lives, with all their complexities, to further His kingdom? Let's embrace the truth that in Christ, we too are part of this grand story of redemption.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: 1) Matthew 1:1-17 - This passage contains the genealogy of Jesus Christ as described in the sermon, tracing from Abraham to Jesus; 2) Luke 3:23-38 - While not directly mentioned, this passage provides another genealogy of Jesus, tracing back to Adam; 3) Ruth 4:18-22 - This passage mentions some of the names in Jesus' lineage, including Boaz, Obed, Jesse, and David; 4) 2 Samuel 12:24 - This verse mentions Solomon's birth to David and Bathsheba (referred to in the sermon as "Uriah's own wife"); 5) Matthew 1:18-25 - These verses describe Joseph taking Mary as his wife and the birth of Jesus; 6) Luke 1:26-38 - This passage describes the annunciation to Mary that she would give birth to Jesus; and 7) John 1:41 - This verse refers to Jesus as the Christ (Messiah).
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH’S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch
Monday Dec 23, 2024
Monday Dec 23, 2024
Today, We Are Reminded of the Genealogy, Leading to Jesus Christ, which Stretches from Adam to Jesus and Revealing God's Intricate Plan for Your Redemption
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
As we journey through Advent, we're reminded of the profound lineage that leads to Jesus Christ. This genealogy, stretching from Adam to Jesus, reveals God's intricate plan of redemption woven throughout history. We see how each name in this family tree, from Abraham to David to Joseph, played a crucial role in God's grand narrative. This reminds us that our own lives, however ordinary they may seem, are part of a greater story.
As we reflect on this lineage, we're challenged to consider our place in God's ongoing work. How might our faith and actions today contribute to His eternal purpose? Let's embrace the wonder of being part of this divine storyline, recognizing that the birth of Christ is not just a historical event, but the culmination of generations of faith and the beginning of our own spiritual journey.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: 1) Matthew 1:1-17 - This passage contains the genealogy of Jesus Christ as described in the sermon, tracing from Abraham to Jesus; 2) Luke 3:23-38 - While not directly mentioned, this passage provides another genealogy of Jesus, tracing back to Adam; 3) Ruth 4:18-22 - This passage mentions some of the names in Jesus' lineage, including Boaz, Obed, Jesse, and David; 4) 2 Samuel 12:24 - This verse mentions Solomon's birth to David and Bathsheba (referred to in the sermon as "Uriah's own wife"); 5) Matthew 1:18-25 - These verses describe Joseph taking Mary as his wife and the birth of Jesus; 6) Luke 1:26-38 - This passage describes the annunciation to Mary that she would give birth to Jesus; and 7) John 1:41 - This verse refers to Jesus as the Christ (Messiah).
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH’S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch
Sunday Dec 22, 2024
Sunday Dec 22, 2024
Consider Joseph's Powerful Reflection on His Love and Divine Purpose. Are You Willing to Accept Unanticipated/Unwanted Roles God Has Prepared for You?
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
In this powerful reflection on love and divine purpose, we're invited to explore the profound journey of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. As we delve into this narrative, we're reminded of the transformative power of faith and obedience. Joseph's story, rooted in the Gospel of Matthew, showcases how God's plans often unfold in unexpected ways, challenging our preconceptions and inviting us into a deeper trust. The transcription beautifully illustrates the internal struggle Joseph faced, balancing his love for Mary with his sense of duty and the overwhelming responsibility of raising the Son of God.
This narrative encourages us to consider how we respond to God's surprising interventions in our own lives. Are we ready, like Joseph, to embrace a calling that may seem daunting or even impossible? As we reflect on Joseph's journey, we're prompted to examine our own willingness to step into roles that God has prepared for us, even when they seem beyond our capabilities.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV) 1) Joseph and Mary's situation: Matthew 1:18-25 - The story of Joseph considering divorcing Mary quietly and the angel's message to him; 2) Jesus as the Son of God and Son of David: Luke 1:32-33 - "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David."; 3) The virgin birth prophecy: Isaiah 7:14 - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."; 4) God's guidance through dreams: Matthew 1:20 - "But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream..."; 5) Joseph's role as Jesus' earthly father: Luke 2:41-52 - The story of Jesus in the temple, where Joseph is referred to as His father; 6) The concept of adoption in God's plan: Ephesians 1:5 - "He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will."; 7) Jesus as Emmanuel (God with us): Matthew 1:23 - "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us"); 8) God's overflowing love: 1 John 4:8 - "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."; and 9) The theme of obedience to God's commands: John 14:15 - "If you love me, keep my commands.".
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH’S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch
Saturday Dec 21, 2024
Saturday Dec 21, 2024
Consider Joseph's Powerful Reflection on His Love and Divine Purpose. Are You Willing to Accept Unanticipated/Unwanted Roles God Has Prepared for You?
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
In this powerful reflection on love and divine purpose, we're invited to explore the profound journey of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. As we delve into this narrative, we're reminded of the transformative power of faith and obedience. Joseph's story, rooted in the Gospel of Matthew, showcases how God's plans often unfold in unexpected ways, challenging our preconceptions and inviting us into a deeper trust. The transcription beautifully illustrates the internal struggle Joseph faced, balancing his love for Mary with his sense of duty and the overwhelming responsibility of raising the Son of God.
This narrative encourages us to consider how we respond to God's surprising interventions in our own lives. Are we ready, like Joseph, to embrace a calling that may seem daunting or even impossible? As we reflect on Joseph's journey, we're prompted to examine our own willingness to step into roles that God has prepared for us, even when they seem beyond our capabilities.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV) 1) Joseph and Mary's situation: Matthew 1:18-25 - The story of Joseph considering divorcing Mary quietly and the angel's message to him; 2) Jesus as the Son of God and Son of David: Luke 1:32-33 - "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David."; 3) The virgin birth prophecy: Isaiah 7:14 - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."; 4) God's guidance through dreams: Matthew 1:20 - "But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream..."; 5) Joseph's role as Jesus' earthly father: Luke 2:41-52 - The story of Jesus in the temple, where Joseph is referred to as His father; 6) The concept of adoption in God's plan: Ephesians 1:5 - "He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will."; 7) Jesus as Emmanuel (God with us): Matthew 1:23 - "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us"); 8) God's overflowing love: 1 John 4:8 - "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."; and 9) The theme of obedience to God's commands: John 14:15 - "If you love me, keep my commands.".
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH’S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch
AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule
A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art.
- 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ.
- 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit’s notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God’s Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son.
- 12/7/24 & 12/8/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus.
- 12/11/24 & 12/14/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God’s favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus
- 12/15/24 & 12/18/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God’s Son.
- 12/19/24 & 12/21/24 & 12/22/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus’ genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born” - The Christ!
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
Joseph Experiences a Profound Exploration of Human Love and Divine Purpose as He Grapples with His Role in the Greatest Story Ever Told
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
In this profound exploration of love and divine purpose, we're invited to witness the inner struggle of Joseph as he grapples with his role in the greatest story ever told. The narrative beautifully weaves together themes of trust, obedience, and the transformative power of God's love. We're reminded that sometimes our greatest callings come wrapped in uncertainty, much like Joseph's middle-of-the-night revelations.
The episode challenges us to consider: How often do we tremble at the magnitude of God's plans for our lives? It encourages us to embrace the 'desert rain' of divine love, even when it defies our expectations. As we reflect on Joseph's journey, we're prompted to examine our own willingness to step into roles that God has prepared for us, even when they seem beyond our capabilities.
This message resonates deeply with anyone facing life-changing decisions or unexpected responsibilities, reminding us that with God's guidance, we can rise to extraordinary callings.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV) 1) Joseph and Mary's situation: Matthew 1:18-25 - The story of Joseph considering divorcing Mary quietly and the angel's message to him; 2) Jesus as the Son of God and Son of David: Luke 1:32-33 - "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David."; 3) The virgin birth prophecy: Isaiah 7:14 - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."; 4) God's guidance through dreams: Matthew 1:20 - "But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream..."; 5) Joseph's role as Jesus' earthly father: Luke 2:41-52 - The story of Jesus in the temple, where Joseph is referred to as His father; 6) The concept of adoption in God's plan: Ephesians 1:5 - "He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will."; 7) Jesus as Emmanuel (God with us): Matthew 1:23 - "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us"); 8) God's overflowing love: 1 John 4:8 - "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."; and 9) The theme of obedience to God's commands: John 14:15 - "If you love me, keep my commands.".
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH’S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch
AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule
A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art.
- 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ.
- 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit’s notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God’s Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son.
- 12/7/24 & 12/8/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus.
- 12/11/24 & 12/14/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God’s favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus
- 12/15/24 & 12/18/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God’s Son.
- 12/19/24 & 12/21/24 & 12/22/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus’ genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born” - The Christ!
Sunday Dec 15, 2024
Sunday Dec 15, 2024
We Are Invited to Reflect on Joseph's Extraordinary Journey, As We Contemplate His Struggles Along with His Love and Joy
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
In this profound exploration of love and divine purpose, we're invited to reflect on Joseph's extraordinary journey. As we contemplate his struggles with an unexpected pregnancy and the weight of raising the Son of God, we're reminded of how God often works in mysterious ways. The story challenges us to trust in God's plan, even when it seems overwhelming or contrary to societal norms. Just as Joseph was called to 'adopt the one who will adopt the world,' we too are asked to embrace our unique roles in God's grand design. This narrative encourages us to see beyond our immediate circumstances and recognize the beautiful symphony God is composing in our lives. It's a powerful reminder that our perceived limitations or fears don't define us; instead, it's our willingness to say 'yes' to God's calling that shapes our destiny.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV) 1) Joseph and Mary's situation: Matthew 1:18-25 - The story of Joseph considering divorcing Mary quietly and the angel's message to him; 2) Jesus as the Son of God and Son of David: Luke 1:32-33 - "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David."; 3) The virgin birth prophecy: Isaiah 7:14 - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."; 4) God's guidance through dreams: Matthew 1:20 - "But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream..."; 5) Joseph's role as Jesus' earthly father: Luke 2:41-52 - The story of Jesus in the temple, where Joseph is referred to as His father; 6) The concept of adoption in God's plan: Ephesians 1:5 - "He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will."; 7) Jesus as Emmanuel (God with us): Matthew 1:23 - "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us"); 8) God's overflowing love: 1 John 4:8 - "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."; and 9) The theme of obedience to God's commands: John 14:15 - "If you love me, keep my commands.".
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH’S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch
AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule
A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art.
- 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ.
- 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit’s notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God’s Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son.
- 12/7/24 & 12/8/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus.
- 12/11/24 & 12/14/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God’s favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus
- 12/15/24 & 12/18/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God’s Son.
- 12/19/24 & 12/21/24 & 12/22/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus’ genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born” - The Christ!
Saturday Dec 14, 2024
Saturday Dec 14, 2024
Mary's Visitation with Elizabeth Encourages Us To Be Open To the Holy Spirit, Even When It Defies Expectations
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
In this powerful meditation on the Visitation, we're invited to witness the profound joy and spiritual significance of Mary's encounter with Elizabeth. This beautiful moment, recounted in Luke's Gospel, reminds us of the extraordinary ways God works in our lives. As we reflect on these two women's unanticipated pregnancies, we're challenged to recognize God's favor in unexpected places. Their shared excitement speaks to the transformative power of faith and the joy that comes from embracing God's plan. How might we, like Mary and Elizabeth, respond with joy and wonder to God's surprising interventions in our lives? This reflection encourages us to be open to the Holy Spirit's movement, even when it defies our expectations.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV1) Luke 1:39-45 - This passage describes Mary's visit to Elizabeth and their joyful interaction, which is the main focus of the sermon; 2) Luke 1:41-42 - "When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: 'Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!'" This relates to the sermon's mention of Elizabeth feeling the baby turn and recognizing Mary's blessedness; 3) Luke 1:43 - "But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" This verse aligns with the sermon's reference to Elizabeth recognizing Mary as "the mother of my Lord."; 4) Luke 1:15 - This verse, while not directly mentioned, relates to John the Baptist (Elizabeth's son) being filled with the Holy Spirit even before birth, which is alluded to in the sermon; 5) Matthew 1:18 or Luke 1:35 - These verses describe Jesus' conception by the Holy Spirit, which is hinted at in the sermon's mention of "the holy spirit that I've never known."; and 6) Luke 1:46-55 (The Magnificat) - While not directly quoted, Mary's song of praise aligns with the joyful tone and themes of blessing in the sermon.
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH’S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch
AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule
A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art.
- 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ.
- 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit’s notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God’s Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son.
- 12/7/24 & 12/8/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus.
- 12/11/24 & 12/14/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God’s favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus
- 12/15/24 & 12/18/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God’s Son.
- 12/19/24 & 12/21/24 & 12/22/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus’ genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born” - The Christ!