Pastor Philip Miller explores the concept of identity and how it relates to our sense of self, significance, security, and satisfaction. He discusses how our identity is shaped by our relationship with God and how we can fall into identity traps by seeking these needs in people, power, and possessions. He also shares how the gospel offers a new identity as children of God, free from the need for self-justification and filled with love, generosity, and self-giving. [... more]

Living in the light of the Second Coming of Christ, Christians are motivated to pursue Christ-likeness, experience accountability and security, and eagerly wait for their Savior. This hope in the coming of Christ transforms the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, making us like Him and giving us a new body adapted to an eternal holy heaven. [... more]

The Christian life is about pursuing purposeful, clear, God-honoring goals, as exemplified by Paul's focus on knowing Jesus Christ so well that he was becoming like Christ. This goal is outside of oneself and is achieved by following the proper examples, fleeing enemies of the cross, and letting the word about Christ dwell in one richly. Enemies of the cross include those who add to the gospel, such as the Judaizers, and those who subtract from it, such as the Gnostics and libertines, who live according to their sensual desires and boast in their shameful lifestyles. [... more]

Paul the Apostle shares five steps to improve mental health, including rejoicing in the presence of God, relying on the power of God, and focusing on what is true, noble, and pure. He emphasizes the importance of faith and spiritual growth in overcoming anxiety and depression. [... more]

Discovering true contentment in a world that always pushes us toward more requires a shift in perspective. It's not about reaching a certain number, but about trusting God as our source and recognizing that enough is ultimately a matter of the heart, not a number. By understanding that enough is rooted in stewardship, not ownership, and that it's about purpose, not possessions, we can find peace and security in our financial journey. [... more]

The Bible teaches that believers are privileged to suffer for the sake of Christ, and that this suffering can increase their faith and demonstrate their allegiance to Him. The apostles and other New Testament writers, such as Paul and James, encouraged believers to rejoice in their sufferings and to follow the example set by Jesus, who suffered without retaliating. This mindset is held together by the Holy Spirit and is a key part of living a godly life in Christ Jesus. [... more]

The New Testament emphasizes the importance of living a lifestyle that aligns with the gospel, as ambassadors in a foreign land. This involves standing fast in unity of one Spirit, with one mind, and walking worthy of the vocation wherewith one is called. [... more]

The burial of Jesus Christ is the hinge point of history, marking the end of the old order and the beginning of a new creation. As Jesus is laid in the dust of a garden, awaiting the breath of life, he is fulfilling the prophecy of a new humanity. The death and resurrection of Jesus is the ultimate twist ending, a moment when everything we thought we knew turns out to be suddenly undone, and we see things as they really are. Jesus' death and resurrection are the template for our lives, a rhythm of dying and rising with Christ, where we lose our lives to find them, surrender to be free, and repent to rejoice. [... more]

As we mature in the Lord, our fear of death recedes into the background, and we become motivated to leave this sin-cursed world behind and pass into the presence of the Creator. The needs of churches, new Christians, and troubled souls require commitment to complete the course that God has given us to finish. [... more]

Paul's imprisonment is used by some to enhance their reputations, but he rejoices that Christ is preached, even by those with ungodly motives, as the gospel has power, not the messenger, and warns against changing the gospel to make it more attractive to sinners or allowing human works. [... more]

The burial of Jesus Christ is a pivotal moment in the Gospel of John, marking the transition from his death to his resurrection. Through the actions of Joseph and Nicodemus, Jesus is given an honorable burial, despite being a criminal. This event is a clue to the uniqueness of Jesus, as he is distinguished from the other crucified individuals. The burial also sets the stage for the resurrection, which is a new creation, a new humanity, and a new order of things. The death and resurrection of Jesus are a template for our lives, a rhythm of dying and rising with Christ, and a call to surrender to him, letting go of our old lives to find new life in him. [... more]

The Bible teaches that our ability to produce godly fruit comes from God, and that we cannot bear fruit by ourselves. This is illustrated by Jesus' comparison of himself to a vine and us to branches. The fruit we produce is a manifestation of the Holy Spirit's character traits in our lives, and being connected to God makes it possible for us to walk worthy of the Lord and bring forth fruit that represents His DNA. [... more]

God's promise to meet our needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus is a conditional promise that requires us to be like the Philippian Christians, giving to God consistently, generously, and sacrificially. This principle of faith is the foundation for a biblical system of managing money, which includes contentment, investment, worship, and giving by faith. [... more]

Paul's profound confidence comes from prayer, the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, and God's providential care, producing a growing hope and anticipation for God's direction and wisdom, resulting in spiritual joy and peace. [... more]

A World War II veteran and survivor of the Bataan Death March shares his harrowing story of capture, torture, and liberation, as told by his family members, highlighting his bravery, compassion, and unwavering faith in the face of unimaginable suffering. [... more]

When we give to God, it's not just about supporting a church or a cause, but about worshiping Him and telling Him that He's number one in our life. The Bible teaches us that giving is a form of spiritual worship, and that it's not just about the amount we give, but about the proportion of our income that we give. We need to give sacrificially, not just out of duty or obligation, but out of love and gratitude for what God has done for us. [... more]

A daily devotional emphasizes the importance of using knowledge and judgment motivated by love to fulfill God's design and desire. Paul's teachings on proving and testing one's faith are highlighted, with a focus on living a sincere and holy life, and being filled with the fruits of righteousness. [... more]

The crucifixion of Jesus is a pivotal moment in the Gospel of John, where Jesus takes his place among guilty sinners, bearing the weight of humanity's sin and shame. Through his sacrifice, Jesus becomes the source of living water, quenching the spiritual thirst of those who believe in him. His final words, 'It is finished,' signify the completion of his mission and the fulfillment of God's purposes. Jesus' death on the cross is a demonstration of his love and a testament to the power of redemption, offering forgiveness and righteousness to all who put their faith in him. [... more]

Paul's prayer for the Philippian church in Philippians 1.9 expresses his longing for their maturation in faith, focusing on an ever-growing love for knowledge and judgment rooted in understanding and discernment. [... more]

The passage from John 18-19 reveals six striking ironies in Jesus' Roman trial, showcasing God's plan of redemption through Jesus' suffering and death. Despite the cruelty and injustice, Jesus' glory is revealed, and his kingdom is not of this world. The trial ultimately fulfills the will of God, and Jesus' sacrifice is the true Passover Lamb, redeeming the world from sin and death. [... more]

The concept of defense and confirmation in the gospel ministry is rooted in the New Testament, with key terms like apologia and Bibiosis describing a mission attitude that should anchor our approach to ministry, emphasizing firmness and establishment of the truth. [... more]

The Bible teaches that our attitude should promote unity, prefer others, and portray Christ. We should strive to be like-minded, humble ourselves, and esteem others above ourselves. Our attitude greatly hinges on whether or not we are willing to humble ourselves and make ourselves of no reputation. We should do all things without murmuring and disputings, and have a willing heart to serve God without complaining. Ultimately, our attitude should be a pattern of contentment and a reflection of Christ's humility and submission. [... more]

The Lord's promise to perfect the good work He began in the church at Philippi is an earthly, temporal promise that reflects His assurance that the gates of hell would not prevail against His church. The church's strengths, despite its weaknesses, are seen in the list of commendations given to the seven churches in the letters dictated to John at the beginning of Revelation. Our Lord knows all His works from the beginning and sees the eternal fruit of our ministry that ripples long beyond our short earthly life. [... more]

The concept of Christian citizenship is explored, with a focus on the distinction between heavenly and earthly citizenship. The Bible is referenced to understand the nature of citizenship in heaven and on earth, with a discussion of post-millennialism and the role of the church in ushering in the kingdom of God. [... more]

Jesus' courage and sacrifice are on full display as he faces betrayal, arrest, and interrogation in the Garden of Gethsemane. Despite being surrounded by armed guards, Jesus voluntarily surrenders himself, protecting his disciples and fulfilling his mission to bring redemption to humanity. Through his actions, Jesus shows that true strength lies not in fighting back, but in surrendering to the will of God and trusting in his plan for salvation. [... more]

The story of Jesus' Incarnation is a remarkable tale of God becoming man to pay for humanity's sin. Jesus, as the Redeemer, humbled himself by taking on a human nature and living as a servant, while retaining all attributes of God. His death on the cross was a substitutionary death, where he took on the sins of humanity and became legally guilty, allowing us to be welcomed into heaven through his merit. [... more]

The Philippian jailer's encounter with Paul and Silas in Acts 16 serves as a powerful reminder that people often take in information about Jesus Christ, only to process it later in life when faced with a crisis. This story emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel and trusting God's timing, rather than trying to orchestrate it. [... more]

Paul writes to the church at Philippi, founded by him, to express gratitude for their fellowship in the gospel, despite facing opposition and persecution. The church's growth and establishment of leadership is a testament to the power of faith and fellowship. The Apostle Paul's words remind us of the value of spiritual relationships and the bond of eternal brotherhood. [... more]

When making financial decisions, it's essential to remember that God is the source of all we have, not just the provision itself, but the power to earn it. By trusting in God's provision, we can stop treating financial security as something we manufacture and begin receiving it as something God provides, freeing us to work, save, and give with joy. [... more]

The Apostle Paul's missionary journey to Philippi is examined in the context of the Roman Empire's influence and the importance of biblical authority in Christian discipleship. The story of Paul and Silas being accused and persecuted in Philippi serves as a backdrop for exploring the dangers of prioritizing personal desires and financial gain over biblical teachings. [... more]

Jesus offers a final prayer, known as the High Priestly Prayer, to his Father on behalf of his disciples and for all who would believe. In this prayer, Jesus shares his final request, report, intercession, and desire, revealing his heart's deepest longing for his followers to experience eternal life, unity in Christ, and perichoresis, the divine dance of eternal loving embrace. [... more]

Real transformation in marriage happens when individuals stop living for God's approval and start living from it, believing their true identity in Christ. This understanding changes how they love their mate, naturally putting on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. By dressing appropriately for their mate, individuals can create a heart of compassion, kindness, and humility, leading to a deeper connection and more loving relationships. [... more]

The Spanish-American War marked a turning point in American history, as the country emerged as a world power and grappled with the complexities of imperialism. President William McKinley's decision to annex the Philippines sparked a debate over the country's role in the world, with some arguing that it was a paternalistic duty to educate and uplift the Filipino people, while others saw it as a threat to American values and a precursor to further expansion. The war's aftermath saw the rise of Theodore Roosevelt, who would go on to assert American power in the region and establish the Roosevelt Corollary, a policy that would increase Latin American resentment towards the US. The story of the Spanish-American War and its aftermath continues to be debated today, with questions about the nature of American power and its responsibilities in the world remaining unresolved. [... more]

Biblical communication is the transfer of God's love through you to your mate in meaningful, supernatural ways. It's not just about techniques or expressing yourself clearly, but about putting on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience to effectively communicate God's love to your spouse. [... more]

Biblical communication in marriage involves putting on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, which empowers us to give life-giving love to our mates. This requires taking off the old self with its practices and putting on the new self, which is being renewed in the knowledge of God's character and promises. [... more]

Trusting God's provision is about a relationship with a God who sees, knows, and cares. Faith in God's provision means we can plan without panic, give without fear, and endure seasons of scarcity with hope. It's about understanding God's character and trusting His promise, not just about securing every possible outcome. [... more]

Scripture defines success as becoming more like Christ, not accumulating wealth or possessions. Jesus invites us to measure progress by obedience and faithfulness, not by accumulation or fame. Rob West guides listeners through a 21-day devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure, to realign their hearts and financial decisions with God's purposes. [... more]

Jesus is the overcomer in redemptive history, divine reconciliation, and personal transformation, overcoming sorrow with joy, estrangement with reunion, and faithlessness with faithfulness, giving us peace and hope in the face of tribulation and hardship. [... more]

Trusting God for daily bread is a concept that takes us back to Israel's journey through the wilderness, where God fed his people with manna each morning, enough for the day, no more, no less. This idea is not about passivity, but about dependence on God, and it's a rhythm that Jesus taught us to ask for daily bread, not burdening ourselves with the need to control tomorrow. In a world of economic anxiety, where budgets are tight and the future feels uncertain, this concept is more relevant than ever, inviting us to rest in real care, and to rely on God for provision, not just for our financial needs, but for his kingdom. [... more]

Pastor Greg Laurie explains the significance of Jesus asking his disciples who they think he is, and how this question reveals the importance of understanding God's plan for salvation. He also discusses the concept of 'lost in translation' and how it relates to Jesus' message to his disciples, and how this message is still relevant today. [... more]