First Assembly NLR Audio Podcast

At FirstNLR, we want to make it easy for people to come back to Jesus. We want our words, actions, and attitude to open the door for prodigals to become life-long followers. To do that, we must make the path home easy for people to follow. This message continues our Come Home series. Together, we look at the obstacles that keep people from coming home and the path that leads them back. This is an...

What really happens when someone runs from God? In this message, we explore Jesus' parable of the Prodigal Son and uncover the predictable pattern that follows spiritual rebellion. From leaving the safety, security, and blessing of home to facing loss, shame, and isolation—this teaching walks through every stage of what it looks like to turn away from God. This message reveals the dangers of runni...

You often hear me say, "Blessing follows obedience." Obedience in your finances, marriage, ministry, and workplace will lead to God's blessing in your life. Sadly, many people discover the opposite principle is just as true - consequences follow disobedience. In this message, we finish looking at David's epic failure. After a painful cover-up, David foolishly thought he got away with sin. When his...

Have you ever felt unseen? Like your prayers go unnoticed and your situation is too far gone? In the story of Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52), we're reminded that no one is invisible to God. A blind beggar sitting on the side of the road, overlooked by everyone else, caught the attention of Jesus with just one thing—his faith. What miracle or impossibility have you given up on? This message is a call t...

It's inevitable: you will make mistakes, sin, and mess up. When that happens, you have two choices: cover up or confess. There's a lot riding on your decision. In this message, we continue learning from a monumental mistake in David's life. Because he decided to cover up instead of confessing, he faced horrible consequences. You will learn a practical path to make things right so you don't experie...

At FirstNLR, a core value is: The Bible Is Our Guidebook for Living. We believe the entire Bible should be used to guide us through the journey of life. Even when the truths are difficult to hear, The Bible is Our Guidebook for Living. This message begins a challenging series. We will discuss a topic that will make many people uncomfortable. In spite of the difficult topic, it's one we need to add...

In this message, we finish looking at the greatest jailbreak in history! Paul and Silas were faced with an incredibly difficult situation. Their response will challenge you to face trouble and heartache in a different way.  This is a great message to share with others!

There is a common saying, "Show me your friends and I will show you your future." Although it's a cheesy cliche, the lesson is true - your future can be predicted by your relationships. In this message, we continue learning from the greatest jailbreak in history! Paul and Silas were faced with extreme difficulty and responded with worship and praise - it was a powerful display of faith. But the de...

What has been the hardest day of your life? Out of all the difficult moments you could have picked, why that one? Did someone close to you pass away? Did you lose your job? Did your kids walk away? Whatever it was, we've all faced seasons of difficulty. In this message, we begin a new series focusing on an incredible story from the life of Paul and Silas. We will look at one of the most amazing pr...

In this message, we will learn a biblical command that may seem unreasonable and difficult to follow: Rom. 12:14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. As we conclude our study of Romans 12, this counter-cultural command will give you a life-changing way to think!

We live in a world obsessed with pride. You are told to stand out, be the best, and never admit weakness. Culture celebrates self-promotion, competition, and the need to prove your worth. Pride is ugly and has devastating effects. In this message, as we continue looking at Romans 12, we come to a verse where Paul confronts pride and challenges you to live a life of humility. In a world of self-pro...

Everyone experiences moments of victory and moments of defeat. No matter who you are, there will be times of pain and times of celebration. The difference for the follower of Jesus is, you are not alone! This message continues our series, "Buckle Up". You will be challenged to: Rom. 12:15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. You will discover practical and effective ways to...

As we continue looking at Romans chapter 12, we come to verses 13 and 14: Rom. 12:13 Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Paul's words are a clear and straightforward command for each of us - it's time to be generous and hospitable. In this message, you will learn practical ways to follow Paul's command. You will also be presented with the opportunity to put generosity in...

In this message, as we continue "Buckle Up", we look at Romans chapter 12, verses 11 and 12: Rom. 12:11 "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Get ready, this message is going to be very, very challenging. It could also be absolutely life changing. We pray you will discover or re-discover a pass...

In the Church, we all play a role in reaching lost people and making life-long followers of Jesus. There are no superheroes, A-listers, or lone warriors - we come together to form a team that Paul calls "the body of Christ" (1 Cor. 12). This message continues our series, "Buckle Up". We learn how God designed His Church to accomplish His mission by using people just like you! Buckle up - we've got...

When someone says, "Buckle Up", you know there is something ahead you need to prepare for. It may be a challenge, a difficulty or a hard truth, but no matter what it is, you need to buckle up! This message kicks off a new series: "Buckle Up". At FirstNLR we believe in being Biblical Christians - the Bible should guide how we talk, act, and treat others. In this series, we dive deep into Romans cha...

Since becoming pastor, Pastor Rod has taught from the same passage in Acts chapter two at the start of each year. From this passage, we can identify twelve signs of a healthy, growing church. Whether you are new to our church family or have been a faithful member for years, this message is an important reminder that we all play a role in keeping our church healthy. This is the perfect message to s...

Are you ready to step into lasting freedom? In this message, we'll explore how to break free from the chains of addiction, shame, and struggle. Discover hope, healing, and the promise of transformation in Christ. This is your chance to embrace a new way of living and make 2025 your Year of Freedom.

Christmas service features beautiful music, a meaningful moment of communion and the life changing message of Christmas. We would love for you to share this message with your family. You are going to love the start of service. It features all your favorite Christmas songs in eleven minutes!   

This message we will finish the 23rd Psalm by looking at the final verse. It's an incredibly encouraging message that will remind you of God's goodness and mercy and our forever home! It's one you won't want to miss.

Sometimes, the problems and difficulties of life are overwhelming. Everything seems to go wrong, and you can't find a solution. When that happens, what do you do? In this message, you will learn verse 5 of the 23rd Psalm. In life's most challenging moments, your Good Shepherd watches over you, prepares a way, and cares for you. This verse is a beautiful picture of God's love!

When you are surrounded by difficulty and trouble, you find yourself in a valley. No one gets a free pass from hard times in life! When you know that valleys will come, how do you prepare? In this message, we learn verse 4 of the 23rd Psalm. When you find yourself in a valley, your Good Shepherd is there to lead you through. It's an encouraging message you need to hear!

In this message, as we continue the 23rd Psalm, you'll learn how to discover and follow God's plan for your life. We will also celebrate God's plan for restoration and redemption. You will be encouraged and grateful.

In this message, as we continue to memorize Psalm 23, we focus on a verse that is encouraging if you are busy, stressed, anxious, and worried.  If you find yourself facing pressure and searching for peace, this message is for you!

This message focuses on the powerful first line of Psalm 23: "The Lord is my Shepherd." As you watch and learn insights into the life of a shepherd, you'll see how this verse shows God's love, presence, and commitment to us. It's a reminder that we're never alone or without help—God is with us every step of the way.