Love God First

In this part-two episode, we continue to explore the theme of our summer series, Walking in the Spirit, by emphasizing the importance of setting our minds on the Spirit instead of on our flesh. In this episode we get practical and share two methods to redirect our minds back onto Jesus when we are tempted, or even when we are stressed, angry, worried or sad. 

In this part-one episode, we continue to explore the theme of our summer series: Walking in the Spirit by emphasizing the importance of setting our minds on the Spirit instead of on our flesh. We discuss the conflict between our two natures, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the necessity of making conscious choices on where we direct our minds. Through a really great personal example, I contrast...

We are getting practical on this introductory episode on walking in the Spirit. We're asking what is necessary not just to know but to believe about God and His care for me so that I can walk in the Spirit more consistently. I share some personal testimonies and encourage listeners to ask: what possible obstacles could hinder each of us from walking in the Spirit?      Keywords Walking in the Spir...

I am happy to introduce a summer series focused on 'Walking in the Spirit.' We're going to talk about the importance of this practice in every Christian's life and discuss the internal battle between the flesh and the spirit. We'll explores the role of the Holy Spirit, we'll define the flesh and explore the significance of the fruit of the Spirit so that we are set up for hearing the beginning pra...

In this part two episode about family relationships, we talk about some practicalities of keeping our families healthy and happy as we journey together through life. The best families have biblical values that guide them as they deal with family conflict and building close relationships. Today we look at four general principles from the account of Isaac and Ishmael that will help us in our own fam...

In this part one of two episodes, we discuss the complexities of family conflict, drawing insights from the interaction with Isaac and Ishmael. This first episode focuses on the biblical account in Genesis 25, and then next week we will bring it home and apply the principles we see. If you have a family (and who doesn't), come learn more tools to resolve conflict in our most important relationship...

  In this part three episode I wrap up the discussion about the importance of seeking God's guidance when making significant life decisions. I recap key points from the two previous episodes (which I would highly recommend going back and listening to if you haven't yet), and I emphasize integrity, faith, and the necessity of prayer when deciding because we are all trying to make decisions differen...

In this second part of a three part series on decision-making, we continue looking at ten truths (plus a bonus) about seeking God's guidance for the big decisions of life. Last week we discussed only three elements of Christian decision-making, but there are several more applications we can pull out from the actions of Abraham's servant as he searches for a wife for Isaac in Genesis 24. Come and l...

In this first episode (of three) on seeking God's guidance for big decisions, we return to Genesis 24 to explore how Christians can learn to make important life decisions much better because we have the God of the universe to help guide and lead us. Using the story of Abraham's servant, I outline key principles for decision-making, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's will, acting in faith,...

In this third and final conversation with Pastor Craig Kessel, we discuss the signs of healthy relationships (and unhealthy ones) and the value of marriage in today's society. We provide insights and practical advice for individuals at different stages of their relationship journey, whether single or married!      Keywords: marriage, relationships, spouse, preparation, qualities, advice, counselin...

In this second episode with Pastor Craig Kessel, we explore the essential themes of marriage preparation and the importance of community and counsel in relationships. We share personal experiences and insights on how to evaluate potential partners objectively, emphasizing the need for consistent character, shared faith, and emotional health. The discussion also highlights the significance of seeki...

In this three-episode conversation, Pastor Craig Kessel and I explore the essential themes of marriage preparation, the qualities of a good spouse, and the importance of community in relationships. We share personal experiences and insights on how to evaluate potential partners objectively, emphasizing the need for consistent character, shared faith, and emotional health. The discussion also highl...

In this third episode that explores the account of Isaac and Rebekah in Genesis 24, we turn from pondering their account to pulling out the truths to apply to our own lives. There are many principles we can practice about preparing for marriage and finding a spouse as we consider the way Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah and the servant walk through the process. Join us as we discuss the DOs and DON'Ts of d...

In this second of a three-part episode, we finish talking about the moving story of Isaac and Rebekah. The narrative unfolds through the journey of Abraham's servant, who seeks a wife for Isaac. We'll see how God guides and provides, culminating in the servant's gratitude and Rebecca's willingness to embrace her destiny.        keywords love story, marriage, Isaac, Rebecca, Abraham, faith, prayer,...

In this part one episode of a three-parter, we explore the story of Isaac and Rebecca, emphasizing the significance of the marriage decision and the qualities that make a suitable partner. The narrative unfolds through the journey of Abraham's servant, who seeks a wife for Isaac, highlighting themes of faith, prayer, and character. For those who are in the time of life where you are considering ma...

In this part two of two episodes about grief, we discuss more of the practical aspects of helping others through grief and how to grieve through loss for ourselves too. If we live long enough, all of us will suffer loss. Knowing how to cope and how to lean on the strength and love of Jesus and His people will help the process greatly!

In this first of two episodes, we reflect on the life and death of Sarah, exploring the theme of grief and how it impacts our lives. We discuss the importance of understanding grief and the lessons we can learn from Abraham and Isaac. If you are currently walking through grief, know someone who is grieving right now or want to learn about grief for when it inevitably hits you in the future, this e...

This is our last episode talking about covenant, and Dr. RoseAnne Coleman does a thorough job wrapping up the topic! She ends with a sweet prayer for us all. 

In this part two of a three-episode series on covenant, Dr. Roseanne Coleman shares insights on the elements of an ancient covenant ceremony. She explains how the account of Abraham being willing to sacrifice his son Isaac at God's command relates to covenant, and she explains the profound implications of that one act. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing God's intentional lov...

In this week's conversation, Dr. RoseAnne Coleman shares her insights on the concept of covenant in the Bible, drawing from her experiences as a chaplain and Bible teacher. The discussion explores the nature of covenants, their significance in modern life, and the profound implications of Abraham's faith and obedience, particularly in the context of his willingness to sacrifice Isaac. Through pers...

In our time together today, we explore the profound themes of love and sacrifice through the biblical account of Abraham and Isaac. I emphasize the depth of God's love for humanity illustrated by Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac. As we apply the truths we see to ourselves personally, we are encouraged to think about our own lives in light of God's unwavering love and to respond by...

In this part one of two episodes, we discuss the love God has for us by looking at the account of God testing Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac. We emphasize the depth of God's love for each of us as we ponder how Abraham felt on the way to Mt. Moriah with Isaac. The account draws remarkable parallels to the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made by dying for humanity's sins. 

In this part two episode on telling the truth, we explore the significance of truthfulness and integrity for personal and spiritual growth. I discusses the consequences of lying, the importance of honesty in building relationships, and the responsibilities that is earned from being truthful. The conversation emphasizes the need for private integrity, practical steps to maintain honesty, and the im...

In the first of a two-part episode, we explore the profound importance of truth and integrity in our lives. We discuss the importance of being someone who others consider reliable and truthful and the consequences of lying. Using the story of Abraham and Abimelech in Genesis 21 as a springboard, we look at how untrue words and actions will impact our relationships and spiritual growth.     Keyword...

Last week we walked through the biblical account of Hagar and Ishmael wandering around in the wilderness after Abraham sends them away. This week we are looking at the lessons in parenting we can learn from Hagar, especially for the single parent. This part two episode starts directly with the application and answers the question: Is there hope for the children of a single parent to have an abunda...