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Daily Devotional By A Word From The Lord with Archbishop Foley Beach
Episodes
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
JESUS DENIED BY PETER – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross
LYRICS TO MUSIC:
I said even if everyone else
Turns on you I promise I never will
I thought you were wrong wrong wrong Wrong about me…
I screamed even if I have to die I’m never never gonna deny you
I thought you were wrong wrong wrong Wrong about me…
You used the words of an old gone man Said God will strike the shepherd down
I know these lines have never been wrong before But I swear they won’t define me now
I knew you were wrong wrong wrong Wrong about me…
When she asked her question
That servant girl she broke my heart I knew she was the message
That you had spoken all along
Two behind her followed in the prints her feet had made
Said they’d seen me walking with you said my tongue gave me away
But I swore against their charges claimed you I’d never known
Just in time to hear the bird you promised lift its head and crow
Lift its head and crow
Oh Jesus
I wish you were wrong wrong wrong Wrong about me…
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
Peter’s three-fold denial of Jesus is a well documented incident. Not only is it recorded in all four of the gospel accounts, but history has provided a wealth of art, music, and writing to immortalize one man’s set of egregious mistakes. A lesser known addition to this collection is a poem written by pastor John Piper entitled ‘Peter and John.’ The work examines Peter’s denial from some years after the fateful event, by imagining a reunion between the two disciples.
Piper’s words are simple. His rhyme and rhythm straightforward. Still they paint a powerful picture of unbearable regret. As they reminisce, Peter confides in John that his denial of Jesus still haunts him. Peter’s mistake has grown into a plaguing remorse, despite any good work he can do in Jesus’ name. Though the conversation is entirely speculative, Piper’s assumptions could very well be true. Jesus predicted Peter’s behavior, and even with a warning, Peter turned his back on his friend and Savior.
We know Peter was an emotional and zealous man. He was the one with the courage to step out of the boat in Matthew 14:22-33. He rebukes Jesus when Jesus predicts his own death (Matthew 16:22- 23). Peter draws the sword and cuts off the soldier’s ear in the garden. And when Jesus says that all of his friends will leave him, Peter declares with full intent and belief, “even if all fall away, I will not,” (Mark 14:29). Jesus’ reply must have been heart breaking to such a devoted man: “Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “today - yes, tonight - before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times.”
What a blow this must have been to Peter’s spirit! It was a statement that directly challenged his devotion. But what Jesus says is true, even when it may confuse or be hard to stomach. Remember, Jesus also proclaimed that Peter would be the rock on which the church would be built. This too is true. And what an empowering truth that must have been! Peter certainly stepped into this role after Jesus’ departure. Not wallowing in his mistakes, but becoming the man that Jesus saw in him.
Though Piper’s poem spends a good deal of its time illustrating Peter’s burden, it also accurately portrays Christ’s desire for full forgiveness and redemption. He ends the conceived conversation with John laying hands on Peter and praying for him:
…And so John laid
His hands on Peter’s head and prayed: Come now, O Lord, and touch with me, Come, Jesus, heal the memory
Come, Spirit, spread a table here:
No sin, no guilt, no pain, no fear.
Come pour the cup and break the bread, And lift your servant Simon’s head,
And feed him with your righteousness,
And make the cup of blessing bless…
Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com // Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper
TODAY’S PRAYER: All of us are often like Peter. We want to follow Jesus, but we are weak.
The truth is we love him in spite of our denials. Ask Jesus to forgive you for when you deny him.
Receive his forgiveness.
Ask Jesus to speak encouragement over you, and open your eyes and heart to the truth of who he has made you to be.
Tell Jesus you love him.
uhj
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Self-Centeredness. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit’s fruit of Love. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Mark 14:66-72: “While Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high
priest came by. When she saw Peter warming himself, she looked closely at him. “You also were with that Nazarene, Jesus,” she said.
But he denied it. “I don’t know or understand what you’re talking about,” he said, and went out into the entryway.
When the servant girl saw him there, she said again to those standing around, “This fellow is one of them.” Again he denied it.
After a little while, those standing near said to Peter, “Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.”
He began to call down curses, and he swore to them, “I don’t know this man you’re talking about.”
Immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times.” And he broke down and wept.”. Further Reading: Mark 14:27-30; Matthew 26:69-75; Luke 22:54-62; John 18:25-27; Zechariah 13:7.
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say He Loves You: Part 5 The New Covenant”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Monday Apr 07, 2025
JESUS CONDEMNED BY THE SANHEDRIN – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross
LYRICS TO MUSIC:
Why do you come against me Why do you seek false testimony I tell you you will find none
But still you say
‘Show us, show us you Son of God’
Two have brought their witness
Saying ‘he will destroy he will rebuild in three days’
No words I say could sway you But still you say by the Living God ‘Show us, show us you Son of God’
What blasphemy what further need Now tell me people what do you think He deserves death every bit of it
Come prophesy whose mouth forfeits this ‘Show us, show us you Son of God’
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
In the summer of 1933, John Lomax visited the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola with a singular goal: to collect and record American folk music. A pioneer musicologist and folklorist, Lomax was influential in the preservation of much of America’s folk music. But it was in that particular June, amidst a stifling Louisiana summer, that he recorded the oldest surviving rendition of ‘He Never Said A Mumblin’ Word.’
The now commonly known American spiritual originated in the deep south many years before Lomax’s recording. It chronicles some of the specific events during the crucifixion of Jesus, but within the simple words of the refrain lies its power: ‘And he never said a mumblin’ word, not a word, not a word, not a word.’
That Jesus would be falsely accused, spit on, and struck, and yet not speak out a word in his own defense is fascinating. Jesus becomes the definition of what it means to be meek. The people cry out for displays of his power, commanding him to ‘prophecy’ as they beat him with their fists (Mark 14:65), yet Jesus’ mouth remains shut. Why would Jesus allow false testimony after false testimony come against him, and not defend himself?
Peter’s first letter to the exiles answers this question beautifully. “[Jesus] committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return, when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly,” (1 Peter 2:22-23).
Jesus was able to be meek because he trusted his Father in heaven. Jesus was able to be meek because he knew his Father’s plan was perfect, despite blasphemous accusations. Jesus held his tongue because he trusted the only just judge.
This can be incredibly difficult to do. Our culture often promotes, even rewards, self-centeredness and aggression. All the while, meekness is often associated with weakness and submission. Numbers 12:3 tells us that ‘…Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.’ As we know from Moses’ life, being passive and submissive was not his thing. Nor could this erroneous definition be applied to Jesus when he turned the tables in the temple (Matthew 21:12), or when he called out the scribes and pharisees for being hypocrites (Matthew 23:12-13). The Bible shows us that meekness does not mean weakness. The King of Kings is ‘gentle and humble in heart,’ (Matthew 11:29), but that in no way lessens his strength and power, ‘for all authority in heaven and on earth’ is his (Matthew 28:18).
Before the chief priests and the whole council, as part of his Father’s perfect plan, Jesus only speaks when the high priest asks him, ‘Are you the Christ…’ To this question he replies with an all-powerful truth. ‘I am; and you shall see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.’ This is the man Jesus, meek and mild, yet possessing the full power of the Almighty.
Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com //
Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper
TODAY’S PRAYER: When do you seek power when you should pursue peace? Ask God to create in you a sense of true meekness. Entrust your life, your circumstances, and your reputation to the One who judges justly.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Loneliness. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Presence. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Mark 14:55-65: “The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death, but they did not find any. Many testified falsely against him, but their statements did not agree.
Then some stood up and gave this false testimony against him: “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple made with human hands and in three days will build another, not made with hands.’” Yet even then their testimony did not agree.
Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, “Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?” But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer.
Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?”
“I am,” said Jesus. “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.”
The high priest tore his clothes. “Why do we need any more witnesses?” he asked. “You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?”
They all condemned him as worthy of death. Then some began to spit at him; they blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, “Prophesy!” And the guards took him and beat him.”.
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say He Loves You: Part 5 The New Covenant”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Sunday Apr 06, 2025
Sunday Apr 06, 2025
JESUS BETRAYED BY JUDAS AND ARRESTED – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross (VIDEO)
LYRICS TO MUSIC:
Who is this that comes amidst The shadows in the night
Swords and spears and one man’s kiss The weapons at their side
His words are empty his lips no more Do what you have come for
Why do you march on him
As though you have met your match Twelve legions wait upon him
But his Father holds them back
Choose wise the side you take up in this war But do what you have come for
For this is your hour this is the reign
Of darkness unmentioned of darkness untamed
You ask his name as though
He is some thief you’ve longed to see His answer short but shakes the air And drags you to your knees
He stood in the temple he lived upon its floor But do what you have come for
For this is your hour this is the reign
Of darkness unmentioned of darkness untamed So over and over his mercies can come
To fly the banner high and victorious
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
In Matthew 26:14, we see Judas’ preparations for his betrayal: “[He] went to the chief priests and said, ‘What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?’ And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.”
The Lord, the Savior of all mankind was bought and sold. Ostensibly without contemplation, Judas takes the priests’ offer, and exchanges his friend and teacher for money. If there ever was a priceless man, it certainly was Jesus. If ever there was a man too powerful and full of worth to be arbitrarily cast into bondage, it most definitely was Jesus. Yet, thirty pieces of silver claims him. It was not a particularly small fee, for we know the sum was able to purchase the ‘Potter’s Field’ (Matthew 27:7, Acts 1:18). But it was not an exorbitant amount either, probably equal to between a few weeks and a few months worth of the common laborer’s wages.
Though the priests’ chosen fee seems small and insignificant, it simultaneously tells a deeply beautiful and prophetic story.
In Exodus 21:32 we see that upon the death of a slave, the owner of that slave is owed “thirty silver coins.” The price that the Law fixed for a slave, the lowest of men, is the same price that was paid for the greatest of men. Jesus becomes the perfect example of his own words, “So the last shall be first, and first last” (Matthew 20:16). 1 Peter 2:7 tells us that for those who believe, “Jesus Christ is precious.” How true this is, and yet he humbled himself (Philippians 2:8) even in this seemingly minute detail.
We know this was all part of God’s plan. The Gospel of Matthew reminds us that Messianic prophecy in both Jeremiah and Zechariah predict these events. Zechariah 11 paints a picture of Jesus as the ‘Good Shepherd,’ who is detested by his sheep. When his wages are ‘weighed out’ for his priceless work, thirty pieces of silver is all he is paid, an insultingly small amount. The Roman guards mocked Jesus, even spitting on him (Matthew 27:29- 31). But Jesus was insulted long before this, being bought for the price of a slave.
This is Jesus. Sharing the worth of the lowest of men. Dying for every man, rich or poor, free or in bondage. Jesus even calls his betrayer ‘friend,’ as Judas kisses him and hands him over to the Roman guard (Matthew 26:50).
Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com //
Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper
TODAY’S PRAYER: When have you taken advantage of our priceless Savior? Do your prayers reflect the way you esteem him? Jesus, the priceless Son of God, was betrayed by one of his closest friends. Have you ever betrayed someone for your own profit? Repent and ask Jesus for the strength to seek reconciliation. Have you ever been betrayed by someone close to you? Ask Christ for the strength to forgive them.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Loneliness. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Presence. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Mark 14:43-46: “And immediately, while he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man. Seize him and lead him away under guard.” And when he came, he went up to him at once and said, “Rabbi!” And he kissed him. And they laid hands on him and seized him. But one of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear. And Jesus said to them, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. But let the Scriptures be fulfilled.” And they all left him and fled.”; Further Reading: Matthew 26:47-56; Luke 22:47-53; John 18:1-14; Zechariah 11:12; Exodus 21:32.
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say He Loves You: Part 5 The New Covenant”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Sermon Series: Lent
Saturday Apr 05, 2025
Saturday Apr 05, 2025
JESUS IN THE GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross
LYRICS TO MUSIC:
In the garden he waits
For the very moment he has made Like the face before a fist
Like the eyes before a kiss It’s beautiful anguish
In the garden he prays That this overflowing cup Could pass away
And in this hour of need If there ever such a thing Out of fear I fall asleep
Oh the hour has come…
In the garden he bleeds
But a glimpse of the coming sea
And every angel up above Cannot calm the sorrow When a Father leaves his Son
Oh the hour has come…
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
Written in 1802, Beethoven’s only oratorio ‘Christ on the Mount of Olives’ (Christus am Ölberg) is intense, moving, and dramatic. A fifty-minute barrage of harsh yet beautiful German words pours from the mouths of a soprano, a tenor, and a bass. Unlike many of Beethoven’s contemporaries, Jesus’ humanity is fully embraced in his composition. Christ’s coming betrayal is witnessed amidst his own anguish and pain. From his very lips, the listener hears Jesus question his Father; every cry for mercy, every plea for help, every request for strength.
Much like many other works of art, Beethoven’s piece sheds new light on Jesus’ suffering. It births new perspective, and makes the listener think, if even for a second, about the intricacies and complexities of the man Jesus Christ. It makes one ponder just what his betrayal meant not only to all humanity, but to Jesus himself.
Understanding Christ’s humanity is something that is hard to do. Where does one begin? Few have experienced anything near the physical torture he endured, and to fully understand his spiritual and emotional anguish is impossible. For “he himself bore our sins in his body on the cross,” (1 Peter 2:24). This is certainly a weight no other could carry. He experienced the cup of wrath (Matthew 20:22), the fullness of God’s fury toward sin.
But we know that he did so in a very human body. And it was in this body that the fullness of deity dwells (Colossians 2:9). We know he grew hungry (Matthew 4:2). We know he became tired (John 4:6). His emotions were no less real than any others’, as the author of Hebrews tells us, he lifted his prayers to the Father with crying and tears (Hebrews 5:7). Seeking to better understand Christ’s humanity will help us better understand how he saved humanity. Knowing the pain he endured can help us understand the frequent pain in our own lives.
As Jesus prepared for his most difficult hours, the human nature of his closest friends took a prominent position. The disciples who accompany him cannot seem to stay awake in prayer. ‘For their eyes were very heavy,’ (14:40) seems to be a sorry excuse at such an important time. But oh how often we share the apostles apathy! Like the disciples, we often get distracted, lose focus, or fall asleep during prayer. We too await the magnificent return of the bridegroom (Matthew 25:1-13), but we so often cannot keep our eyes open.
As Beethoven’s oratorio ends, we hear for a third time Jesus powerfully cry out “Nevertheless, not my will, but Thine.” What magnificent words to hear! That Jesus would fully embrace and admit his humanity, yet fully submit to his Father. These are the words that begin his journey to the cross, and usher in his final hours of sorrow. But they are also the words that allow for the world’s redemption. Despite the melancholy and heartbreak woven throughout Beethoven’s piece, the final moments of his work build in intensity, with flurries of rising notes and triumphant chords. It ends with the chorus singing:
‘Glorious worlds above us spire,
Happy Seraphs sing your joys.
Man, join in the holy choir,
Hail the great Redeemer’s praise’
Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com //
Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper
TODAY’S PRAYER: Thank and praise God for his perfect plan.
Ask Jesus to give you a better understanding of his humanity.
Ask Christ for forgiveness regarding your inability to pray, and for the strength to endure in prayer.
Ask Christ to give you a sense of readiness and expectancy for his return.
Praise and thank Christ for his willingness to endure the cross.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Loneliness. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Presence. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Mark 14:32-42: “And they went to a place called Gethsemane. And he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. And he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch.” And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. And he said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” And he came and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Could you not watch one hour? Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy, and they did not know what to answer him. And he came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.”; Matthew 26:36-46; Luke 22:39-46.
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say I Love You, Part 4: Violation of the Covenant”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/
DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Friday Apr 04, 2025
Friday Apr 04, 2025
GOLGOTHA EXPERIENCE FOR LENT – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross
MESSAGE SUMMARY:
INTRODUCTION by Poor Bishop Hooper -- Jesse Braswell Roberts
Some years ago, I had the opportunity to spend a short time working and doing ministry in the Dominican Republic. During my stay in the southeastern city of La Romana, our group supported individuals living in the nearby ‘bateyes’, which are small, company-owned towns for sugar industry laborers. Mostly of Haitian descent, these workers often live in grossly impoverished conditions and
work arduous hours cutting sugar cane by hand.
I was fortunate to meet a certain middle-aged man there one warm afternoon, tired and sweat glistening, but with a strong presence and similar forearms. He told me that he worked as a mechanic, as well as holding other jobs, when he wasn’t ‘cropping cane.’ We spoke amidst rubble of engine parts and tin roof. His English was broken yet formidable, so conversation came somewhat easily. I do not remember a great deal of our particular words, and I am to this day ashamed that I cannot recount his name, but I do recall one moment vividly. Our words somehow made their way to the subject of vacation. I asked about time off in his particular situation. I assumed his response to be Sundays or certain holidays. His answer startled me.
‘One day,’ he said joyfully. ‘Good Friday.’
It was at that time mid-March, so his day of respite was ever approaching. He told me he was excited for that day.
Imprudently, I inquired further. ‘What about Christmas?’ I asked. ‘No,’ he replied.
‘Why not Easter?’
Oh how I wish I could remember his next words exactly, for what he said was simple but powerful. Essentially, he told me that Good Friday was when Christ did the work so he did not have to. And for that he got the day off. And for that he was thankful.
From that moment, my perspective surrounding this ‘holy day’ and the preceding Lenten season changed. Growing up, Good Friday was at best mentioned, a semi-afterthought on the backs of Palm Sunday and Easter. But here, this man’s only day of rest was the Friday before Easter. It was truly ‘good’ for him, and its goodness existed in ways I had never before pondered.
It was years later that my wife Leah and I wrote the body of music that makes up ‘Golgotha.’ We were inspired to increase our community’s appreciation and understanding of what Jesus did on his ‘Sorrowful Way’ to the cross. As we explored the many traditions within the observance of Lent, we were drawn to the ‘Stations of the Cross.’ We found that it was built predominantly upon a bedrock of visual art. Christians over thousands of years had recounted Jesus’ last hours before his death in many strikingly beautiful ways. Our desire was to add to that beauty by creating new music. We wanted to write music that was rooted in scripture. Music that honored tradition, but also that invited the mind to see our Savior’s suffering in new ways. Not for our own entertainment or enjoyment, but rather so that we might offer him more thanksgiving, more praise, more adoration, and more love.
I pray the words that follow would lead you into deeper relationship with our Savior Jesus Christ. Each chapter corresponds with a song of similar title, and I’d invite you to listen to the music as you read. I’d encourage you to have a bible with you, and look up the other scriptures that are cited. They’ll undoubtedly provide deeper understanding and beauty. At the end of each section, I’d invite you to pray. There are prompts provided, but they are intended to be starting places, not final destinations.
With all of this, I must credit my acquaintance that day in the Caribbean sun. The Lord used his words to stir my heart. He made me think differently about the true work that Jesus did on the cross, and birthed in me an ever- growing appreciation for what Christ so magnificently accomplished there. I pray that in spending time with Jesus now, as he makes his way from the garden to the cross, the same would be true for you.
Jesse Braswell Roberts
Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com //
Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper
TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus’ name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! (Luke 11:13).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Luke 22:39-44: And he came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. And when he came to the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.” And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH’S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “How Does God Say I Love You, Part 4: Violation of the Covenant”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/
DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Does Being a Jesus Follower Embarrass You? Are the Holy Spirit and the Gospel on Your Life’s “Back Burner” to Be Warmed Up Only in a Life Crisis?
MESSAGE SUMMARY: Living in the Holy Spirit sets us apart from our fellow human beings who are living without the Christ. Most of us had great passion in our lives as we approached the age to get our driver’s license or the age of eighteen when we would be an “adult”. Why don’t we have the same kind of passion about our spiritual life? Why don’t we want to grow up and mature in the Lord? As Paul tells us, in Titus2:11-13, we must focus on living a Godly life while, also, living our life in the Holy Spirit: “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.”. We have the capacity to live like no one else because we have presence of God in our lives through the person of the Holy Spirit and the gift of a personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe.
TODAY’S PRAYER: Abba Father, I admit that I am often afraid and embarrassed to openly tell you all that is going on inside me — even though I know you know it all anyway. Teach me what boldness in prayer looks like as I draw near your throne of grace. In Jesus’ name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 112). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Resentment. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Compassion. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Titus2:11-15; 2 Timothy 3:2-7; Mark 11:15-19; Psalms 35a:1-14.
WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “Essentials Part 5 – The Holy Spirit”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/
DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
The Answer to Cancel Culture? Jesus Followers Must Lead a New Culture of “Grace and Kindness” Respecting the Ideas of Others
MESSAGE SUMMARY: Following Jesus the Christ produces a culture of grace, mercy, and kindness is an environment in which there is no griping or murmuring; no putting people down – just respect for the words and ideas of others. Paul relates, in Galatians 5:22-26, and defines the outcomes or “Fruits of the Spirit” and how they relate to a “Culture of Grace”: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.". This culture of grace, mercy, and kindness gives people the benefit of the doubt; and it provides a visible demonstration of how you value other people and their views and perspectives. By providing a culture of Grace and mercy, along with respect for others, you create an atmosphere that is filled with the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Also, leading discussions in an environment of Grace and kindness lets others see Jesus in you.
TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus’ name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, I will serve others (Philippians 2:3f). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Micah 6:8; Matthew 5:1-11; Psalms 51:1-2; Psalms 34b: 12-22.
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “Essentials Part 5 – The Holy Spirit”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/
DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
We All Are Filled with Something. The Jesus Follower is Filled with the Holy Spirit!
MESSAGE SUMMARY: If you believe that Christianity is just a bunch of rules and laws for you (all of which you cannot keep!), then you really do not know what Christianity is all about. Jesus Followers are filled with the Holy Spirit. All of us are filled with something. With what are you filled? The Apostle Peter, in 1 Peter 4:5-6, admonishes you to be faithful to the Gospel and to live in the Spirit like God: “but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.". Some people are filled with the world or the devil or alcohol or drugs or materialism or their jobs or just themselves. You need to be filled with the Holy Spirit. As you walk with the Holy Spirit, Paul instructs in Ephesians 5:15-17 to make wise use of our limited time on earth and to seek God’s will through the Holy Spirit: “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.". Come Holy Spirit; fill us with your presence and power. Are you filled with the Holy Spirit? If not, why not?
TODAY’S PRAYER: Father, I confess that when difficulties and trials come into my life, large or small, I mostly grumble and complain. I realize the trials James talks about are not necessarily “walls,” but they are difficult to bear, nonetheless. Fill me with such a vision of a transformed life, O God, that I might actually consider it “pure joy” when you bring trials my way. I believe, Lord. Help my unbelief. In Jesus’ name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 94). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, because I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Self-Centeredness. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit’s fruit of Love. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Ephesians 5:15-21; Acts 2:1-4; 1 Peter 4:1-6; Psalms 34a: 1-11.
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “Essentials Part 5 – The Holy Spirit”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/
DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Prayer Is a Conversation that God Wants to Have with You; Just You and the Creator of the Universe
MESSAGE SUMMARY: God desires to walk with you and to help you, but God does not provide you with this support unless you pray and ask Him. James, the brother of Jesus and the author of James 5:13-16, succinctly describes prayer and its power for the followers of Jesus: “Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.”. Prayer gives you the ability to communicate directly with God, the Creator of the Universe. Therefore, why not take advantage of this incredible communication tool, Prayer, that God has gifted you? Just do it – just pray and ask God for His help. The only way to learn how to pray is just to pray – just pray with your heart. Prayer is just you and your Lord in conversation – a conversation that God wants to have with you.
TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me kicks against going to the foot of the cross where you will root out of me all that is not of you. Help me not to fear the “deaths” it will take for me to be transformed into a free person who loves you and others well. Have mercy on me, O Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 103). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Anger. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Forgiveness. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5).
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 2 Kings 20:5; James 5:13-18; Philippines 4:4-9; Psalms 93:1-5.
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “Essentials Part 5 – The Holy Spirit”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/
DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Sunday Mar 30, 2025
Sunday Mar 30, 2025
To Be a Jesus Follower, You Must First Enter the Only Door to God’s Kingdom and that Door is Jesus – the Door to Eternal Life
MESSAGE SUMMARY: In John 14:6, Jesus says: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no one come to the Father but through me.”. In Luke 13:23-25, Jesus is asked a pivotal question; and Jesus responded: “And someone said to him, ‘Lord, will those who are saved be few?’ And he said to them, “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’ then he will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.’”. It is not that Jesus does not want all to be saved, it is just that the “gate”, to our Salvation and Eternal Life, is “narrow” and difficult to enter. We enter Eternal Life through Jesus and Jesus alone, and so many miss this fundamental tenant of our Christian faith; and they miss knowing Jesus – Jesus is the door, the narrow door. Neither Islam, nor Hinduism, nor just “my personal religion” is the door – Jesus is the only door.
TODAY’S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus’ name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.
TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD’S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21
SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 14:6; Mathew 3:1-3; John 4:1-5; Psalms 33a:1-11.
A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.
THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “Essentials Part 5 – The Holy Spirit” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/
DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB