Daily Devotional By Archbishop Foley Beach

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

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

DONATE TO AWFTL

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

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

DONATE TO AWFTL

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

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

DONATE TO AWFTL

Consider Joseph's Powerful Reflection on His Love and Divine Purpose. Are You Willing to Accept Unanticipated/Unwanted Roles God Has Prepared for You?

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

DONATE TO AWFTL

Consider Joseph's Powerful Reflection on His Love and Divine Purpose. Are You Willing to Accept Unanticipated/Unwanted Roles God Has Prepared for You?

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

DONATE TO AWFTL

 

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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
5. 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.
6. 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!

Jesus Followers Are “Commissioned" to “Make Disciples” and Not to Become Members of an Exclusive Holy Club

Jesus Followers Are “Commissioned" to “Make Disciples” and Not to Become Members of an Exclusive Holy Club

MESSAGE SUMMARY:  We need to welcome new excited Followers of Jesus as members of our Non-Exclusive global fellowship as Followers of Jesus. Those of us who have been brought up in the church or have been in the church for a while can get caught up in our perceived personal righteousness. We get used to the presence of God and His peace in our lives. However, we then encounter a new Followers of Jesus. These new Christians, before their conversion, were living in the ways of the world without God’s peace. Now, these new believers are so excited with their new life; however, their outward manifestation of their conversion may not “fit” with our personal Christian behavioral norms. Sadly, too many modern Christians judge and condemn these new, excited believers for their enthusiasm rather than loving, encouraging, and embracing these new Followers of Jesus. We can learn from Jesus’ rebuke of the Pharisees, who exhibited similar non-supportive behavior of Christians in Matthew 5:20: “For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”.

 

TODAY’S PRAYER: Father, when I read even part of the story of Job, I too am overwhelmed by your “wildness.” Your ways and timing are beyond me. Job moved from hearing about you to having “seen you.” Lead me, Lord, on a pathway so that I too can pray as Job prayed: “My ears had heard of you, but now my eyes have seen you” (Job 42:5). In Jesus’ name, amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 89). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Inconsistencies. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit’s fruit of Faithfulness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f).

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Luke 7:45-47; Matthew 5:20; Luke 11:38-39; Psalms 49b:11-20.

A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.

THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “Why We Do Christmas” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/

DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Today, Many in America Live and Act as “enemies of the Cross of Christ” Thereby, Traveling the Road to Eternal Death

Today, Many in America Live and Act as “enemies of the Cross of Christ” Thereby, Traveling the Road to Eternal Death

MESSAGE SUMMARY: God has told us that we are His children and citizens of Heaven. To this end, God has given us the Holy Spirit as a pledge of our inheritance as His child. Also, God gave you the Holy Spirit to provide you with the power to live a Spiritual life. However, far too many continue to live and to act as “enemies of the Cross of Christ” by having their minds focused on earthly things as the lords of life. If this picture of your life-actions and life-focus describes you, then you very well may be on the road to eternal death and destruction. Therefore, you must return to Jesus and His way of doing things – Jesus’ pattern of discipleship, servanthood, and submission is a path to your Salvation. Paul, in Philippians 3:18-20, defines an “enemy of the Cross of Christ: “For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.". Jesus Followers have their life-focus driven by the realization that they are His child and a citizen of Heaven; therefore, you and your life-focus, as a Jesus Follower, are all precious to God since He sacrificed so much to adopt you as His child.

 

TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, I praise you because your love seeks my good in any and every situation. Forgive me for the seeds that I have squandered. Soften my heart to surrender to your will in and through me. In Jesus’ name, amen.        Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 120). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Inadequacy. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Abundance. “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): Matthew 7:19-23; Romans 8:13-17; Revelation 8:9-24; Psalms 49a:1-10.

WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.

THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “Why We Do Christmas”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/

DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Joseph Experiences a Profound Exploration of Human Love and Divine Purpose as He Grapples with His Role in the Greatest Story Ever Told

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

DONATE TO AWFTL

 

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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
5. 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.
6. 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!

Today’s Political and Religious Climates Harden Hearts of Many “Believers” Who Turn Away from God - Jesus Followers Are to and Can Help Those with Hardening Hearts

Today’s Political and Religious Climates Harden Hearts of Many “Believers” Who Turn Away from God - Jesus Followers Are to and Can Help Those with Hardening Hearts

MESSAGE SUMMARY: No matter the hardness of a person’s heart, who has walked away from God, they will respond to your initiatives that are based on your love and trust. However, so many of us Christians are so focused on doing their religious or spiritual things and keeping to their “busy” schedules that they do not have time to love and care for the needs of other – physical and/or spiritual. Is there anything you can do for someone with a calloused heart or who has walked away from God because they were not discipled? Yes, you must start by praying for them – asking God to move in their lives; asking God to intervene in their life situations; asking God to break up the hardness of their heart. Also, you must build a better personal relationship, with this person, through your trust and caring love. In Mathew 18:12-13, Jesus presents God’s perspective regarding the pursuit of even one person that has walked away: “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish."

 

 

TODAY’S PRAYER: Father, to you I acknowledge that I don’t want to go the way of powerlessness and humility. Like Peter, I want to know what you are doing with those around me. I love you. Help me to trust you with this day, with tomorrow, and with my whole life. In Jesus’ name, amen.        Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 92). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Anxiety Rather, I will walk in the Spirit’s fruit of Peace. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f).

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12; Acts 1:8; Romans 2:15-16; Psalms 47:1-9.

A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org

THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “Why We Do Christmas”,

at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/

DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Jesus Followers Must Carve Out Quiet Times to Listen for the Holy Spirit Who Speaks to Us in His “still small voice”

Jesus Followers Must Carve Out Quiet Times to Listen for the Holy Spirit Who Speaks to Us in His “still small voice”

MESSAGE SUMMARY: God will speak to you, but you must learn to listen for Him. Learning to listen for and to God requires focused and "in-tune" listening in combination with a filter for all the in-life clutter that your lifestyles and culture create. As Paul tells us in Romans 10:17, followers of Jesus must listen and hear the Word from the Lord: “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.". You are going all the time with stimuli from many different sources – how can God speak or be heard, in a still small voice, through all your noise? To hear and listen for God, "lengthy times in silence and solitude" with the Lord are needed. Times of quiet prayer with God permits the noise and clutter get taken away. Again, in Psalm 141:1, the Psalmist admonishes us to call upon the Lord and to listen for God’s Word: “LORD, I call upon you; hasten to me! Give ear to my voice when I call to you!".

 

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 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): Exodus 19:5; Daniel 9:9-14; John 10:2-16; Psalms 106a:1-12

A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org.

THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “Why We Do Christmas”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/

DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB