6 10 83 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/4fb9ba01b6fa03a205a3a94944bc2ac7.jpg 936ea96b8b2f93568ca8f9ba2c033eda https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/efe34bf73c64a40d2f00d275dad2db02.mp4 64d1e55959807f2b4ece63452c6a5cc7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound God's Light Shines: Finding Faith in Uncertain Times 1 John 1:5: "This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all." (America. England. Africa) What a week it has been. The new week brings more of the same surprises, although some will be more surprised than others. The days of uncertainty continue, nonetheless. In a moment of overwhelm, I prayed, "Let Your Light shine over this nation. Show Yourself mighty against the powers of darkness." This is all about your freedom – and your faith. (it’s also about WORSHIP) Do you realize that God is not surprised by anything that is happening - nor by what has been happening? While we may feel shaken, God's light continues to shine even in our darkest moments. Once your eyes are opened, you will never see the world the same again. Today, I invite you to see beyond what appears on the surface and discover how God's light can transform our perspective in these challenging times. It's time to redefine what we are currently experiencing. Jesus said, “Be careful what you hear.” What we see on the surface are only those things revealed on the surface. But beneath our feelings of powerlessness, confusion, and anxiety lies a deeper spiritual need. When things don't fall into place as we think they should, it's easy—it's human—to get rattled. We see the rage of angry mobs fighting against law and order in our cities. We hear the lies of those who say, “Good is evil” and “Evil is Good.” We witness division and darkness seemingly gaining ground. We might ask ourselves, "How do I respond to situations I cannot control?" Our challenge isn't merely external circumstances but maintaining proper faith alignment in the midst of them. As Ephesians 4 reminds us: "Don't let the passion of your emotions lead you to sin! Don't let anger control you or be fuel for revenge, not for even a day." It's okay to feel these emotions, “be angry and sin not,” but we must redirect that emotional fire to something we can change—ourselves. Jesus declared in John 8:12, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." Because there IS darkness, we must be LIGHT God offers us a three-part solution to navigate these uncertain times: First, "Be Still and Know." Psalm 46:10 tells us, "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." In stillness, we create space to hear God's voice even in our storms. Second, Focus on Today. As Jesus taught in Matthew 6:34, "So don't worry about tomorrow. Each day has enough trouble of its own." By focusing on the present, we can manage what's before us rather than being overwhelmed by what might come. Third, Receive and Extend Grace. Daily Grace—both receiving it from God and extending it to others—transforms how we experience our circumstances. As Psalm 86:11 guides us: "Teach me your way, LORD, and I will live by your truth. Give me an undivided mind to fear your name." In Christ, we are not power-less; we are power-full. Colossians 2:9-10 reminds us: "For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority." Imagine what could happen if we truly embraced our identity as light-bearers in this dark world. We are called to "come out from among them" (2 Corinthians 6:17) — to BE the LIGHT. James 1:27 describes true religion as "making a difference in the lives of the orphans and widows in their troubles, and refusing to be corrupted by the world's values." Sadly, many are shaped by whatever the TV and the internet tell them. It tells them how to feel… and even who to hate. “Be careful what you hear” 2 Tim 3:3 tells us in the last days, people “ …will be cruel and hate what is good.” ( ) "come out from among them" Picture a community of Believers who, no matter which way the wind blows, adjust their sails to keep moving in God's direction. We must operate from a Biblical mindset. Both faith and fear require the belief in something unseen. We make the choice. Fear is not the absence of faith – it is a faith in the lies of the enemy. Power, Love and Self-Discipline Believers who are proactive, who take the Kingdom by faith and by force. “HE breaks the power of cancelled sin, HE sets the prisoner free…” Envision yourself asking in every situation: "How can I use this? What is good about this situation?" Remember how sometimes what seemed like the worst thing becomes the stepping stone for new to happen—like our church going online back in 2020. One door closes, another opens. See yourself living in the promise of Romans 8:28: "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." Every detail of your life continually woven together to fit into God's perfect plan of bringing good into your life. #GoodThings ? How do we move forward as light-bearers in a darkened world? Practical Steps to Shine God's Light I challenge you to take these specific steps this week: 1. Practice stillness daily. Set aside 10 minutes each day to "be still and know" God's presence. Turn off distractions and simply listen. 2. Reframe your challenges. When facing difficulties, actively ask: "How can I use this? What is the gift hidden in this struggle?" 3. Live one day at a time. Focus on today's tasks and leave tomorrow's worries for tomorrow. 4. Extend grace intentionally. Identify one person who needs grace and reach out to them this week. 5. Praise God in your storm. Begin each morning by declaring God's goodness despite your circumstances. 6. Adjust your perspective. When tempted to complain, remember that "our worst day is often better than someone else's best day." (driving home from Charge Conference) 7. Draw on divine power. Claim 2 Peter 1:3: "His divine power has bestowed on us absolutely everything necessary for a dynamic spiritual life and godliness." As we close, remember that our first priority is to be Disciples of Christ. Matthew 16:24-25 challenges us: "If any of you want to be my follower, you must stop thinking about yourself and what you want. You must be willing to carry the cross that is given to you for following me." In Christ, we find both rest and strength. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30). His mercies for you and me are new every morning, and so, too, is His strength. Psalm 46:1 assures us: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." ? Are you mourning for what you've been through—or are you preparing for what's to come? As Romans 8:37 declares, "Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." God's light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. KEY: We must BELIEVE we ARE Light Bearers ( ) Light-Bearers that may sometimes be in a dark place that needs the LIGHT. John 1:9: Jesus is “the Pefect LIGHT of TRUTH” Matt 5:14: (Jesus) “You are the light of the world.” Let us be bearers of that light in our homes, our community, and our world. Amen. Father, fill me with the boldness and power of Your Spirit. Help me walk in the authority Jesus gave to break every chain of darkness. Let Your kingdom be revealed through my life as freedom, healing, and deliverance flow. May every work of the enemy bow to the name of Jesus. Amen. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource God’s Light Still Shines 上帝的光仍然照耀着 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 10/12/2025 Description An account of the resource 1 John 1: 5: This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 約 翰 一 書 1:5: 这是我们从耶稣基督那里听到的信息，现在我们把它告诉给你们∶上帝是光（善良），在他之中没有黑暗（罪）(page 1977) Eph 4:31,32 - Lay aside bitter words, temper tantrums, revenge, profanity, and insults. But instead be kind and affectionate toward one another. Has God graciously forgiven you? Then graciously forgive one another in the depths of Christ’s love. 以弗所书 4:31,32: 一切苛刻、恼怒、暴戾、嚷闹、毁谤，连同一切恶毒，都应当从你们中间除掉。 要互相友爱，存温柔的心，彼此饶恕，就像　神在基督里饶恕了你们一样。(page 1899) James 1:27- True spirituality that is pure in the eyes of our Father God is to make a difference in the lives of the orphans, and widows in their troubles, and to refuse to be corrupted by the world’s values. 雅 各 書 1:27: 关心需要帮助的孤儿、寡妇；不受邪恶世界的影响。这才是上帝所接受的敬拜。这种敬拜在上帝面前被认为纯洁、 无可指摘的。(page 1960) John 8:12: "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." 約 翰 福 音 8:12-耶稣又对他们说∶“我是世界之光，跟随我的人绝不会走在黑暗之中，他将获得生命之光。” (page 1733) Romans 8:28 - And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. 罗马书 8:28: 我们知道，上帝使万事互相效力，使那些爱上帝，就是上帝按自己的旨意呼召的人得益处。(page 1833) Col 2:9,10: For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority. 歌 羅 西 書 2:9,10: 由于上帝完整的神性活在基督凡人的形体里， 所以你们在他之中也变得完整了。基督是一切统治者和权威人士的首脑。(page 1910) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/76a8210970f5ebbb02521d108ace19a8.jpg 07be98cfa515f412e89c78a33214b195 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/5f9df0cc9288962b0d05a9570c32c28d.mp4 b58676e0d5ddd0ad11f8edd3d2d87b08 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Heart Alignment: The Circumcision of the Heart Deut 30:6 In the 1970s, many of us spent hours waiting for our favorite songs to play on the radio, finger hovering over the 'Record' button on our cassette tape recorders. One cassette I played for years included that legendary hit song 'Freebird.' The singer proudly declares, 'This bird you cannot change' and 'Lord, I can't change'—as if un-changeability were a badge of honor. But what does that declaration really mean? It's essentially surrendering to stagnation, giving up on the possibility of becoming better. It's saying, 'I am someone who chooses to remain the same' rather than 'I am someone who chooses growth.' We're all on a path that's leading us somewhere. Have you considered: where are you headed if you continue doing what you're doing now? ?What if deep down, you actually care that you don't currently care? Perhaps a part of you is truly crying out for more from life. How often do we begin our days with grand plans, only to end up mindlessly scrolling through our phones? It's so much easier to fall into what psychologists now call 'doomscrolling'—the action of continually consuming negative online news or social media content, even though it causes distress. This pattern reflects a deeper spiritual problem. The Bible warns us not to be carnally minded—not to think the way the world thinks. Scripture is clear: 'To be carnally minded is death.' Jesus commanded in Matthew 22:37, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' He also said, 'If you love me, you will keep my commandments.' But this kind of love isn't merely a work of our will. It's a profound transformation—a work of the Holy Spirit. Scripture calls it the 'Circumcision of the Heart.' In the Bible, physical circumcision was commanded by God as an outward sign of His covenant with Abraham and Israel. It symbolized obedience, devotion to God, and commitment to the covenant. It represented the 'cutting away' of sin and the 'filth of the flesh.' In the New Testament, this physical act is transcended by the 'circumcision of the heart'—a spiritual act performed by the Holy Spirit that signifies an inward cleansing and transformation. Deut 30:6 tells us: 'And the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live.' Charles Spurgeon beautifully explained this passage: 'Here we read of the true circumcision. Note the author of it: "The Lord thy God." He alone can deal effectually with our heart and take away its carnality and pollution. To make us love God with all our heart and soul is a miracle of grace which only the Holy Ghost can work.' 'We must look to the Lord alone for this and never be satisfied with anything short of it. Note where this circumcision is wrought. It is not of the flesh but of the Spirit. It is the essential mark of the covenant of grace. Love to God is the indelible token of the chosen seed; by this secret seal the election of grace is certified to the believer.' 'We must see to it that we trust in no outward ritual but are sealed in heart by the operation of the Holy Ghost. Note what the result is—"that thou mayest live." To be carnally minded is death. In the overcoming of the flesh, we find ‘life and peace.' The circumcision – the “cutting away,” not only propels us forward – but it also takes us back – back to our roots – our foundation. A Returning. 2 Cor 5:15 declares: 'He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.' 1 Cor 15:14 reminds us of the foundation of our faith: 'If Christ has not been raised, all of our preaching has been for nothing and your faith is useless.' John Wesley understood this when he wrote that if Christ is risen, we ought to die to the world and 'live wholly unto God.' What does it mean to 'live wholly unto God'? - It signifies a complete shift in purpose, with a life now dedicated to pleasing God. - It means being 'alive to God,' empowered by the Holy Spirit to live righteously. - It establishes a new identity in Christ, where we're no longer defined by our past but by our new life in Him. ? So how do we measure up? Do we JUST keep looking at our phones, or do we now strive for the higher calling in Christ Jesus? Are we those who choose to remain the same, or those who choose growth? Ezekiel 36:26 promises: 'I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.' This circumcision of the heart is the central idea of the New Covenant. Jeremiah 31:33 tells us: 'I will put My law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they will be My people.' The grace of the New Covenant is the grace that changes our hearts. Romans 12:2 challenges us: 'Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it.' “Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking.” Proverbs reminds us that as a person 'thinks in his heart, so is he.' How can we love God with all our heart without this divine circumcision of the heart? A circumcised heart declares, 'My heart is fixed!' It says, 'I set my face like a stone to serve the Lord!' Remember: 'You will never leave footprints that last if you are always walking on tiptoe.' You have a circumcised heart when what you ought to do and what you want to do are the same. When your heart is circumcised and you can clearly hear from the Lord, you won't need the approval of others to step out in faith. Philippians 3:3 reminds us: 'But we are the ones who have the true circumcision—we who worship God through his Spirit. We don't trust in ourselves or anything we can do. We take pride only in Christ Jesus.' Colossians 2:11 affirms: 'In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ.' Do you keep asking God to forgive the same sins over and over? That’s because you need to experience true cleansing. Your heart needs to be circumcised. And that’s a job for the Holy Spirit. Romans 2:29: “True circumcision…is a change of heart produced by God’s Spirit” “ …a change of heart produced by the Spirit” ? How can this transformation happen for us? ….through a simple act of faith and obedience. If we believe it is the Holy Spirit that must do this work in us, then we must simply take that first step of faith. I urge you: Take it today—without delay. "Circumcise my heart, O Lord, to love You with all my heart and with all my soul. Let my heart be aligned with You.” James1:12: If your faith remains strong, even while surrounded by life’s difficulties, you will continue to experience the untold blessings of God! True happiness comes as you pass the test with faith, and receive the victorious crown of life promised to every lover of God! Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource HEART ALIGNMENT 心之对齐 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 10/19/2025 Description An account of the resource Deuteronomy 30:6: And the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live. 申命记 30:6: 你们的上帝耶和华要洁净你们和你们子孙的心， 好让你们全心全意地爱祂，并且存活。(page 339) Romans 12:2: Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. 罗马书 12:2: 你们不可追随世界的潮流，要随着思想的不断更新而改变，这样就能明辨上帝的旨意，知道什么是良善、纯全、蒙祂悦纳的。(page 1839) Ezekiel 36:26: I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 以西结书 36:26: 我要赐你们一颗新心，把新的灵放在你们里面。我要除去你们的石心，赐给你们一颗肉心。(page 1408) Colossians 2:11: In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ. 歌罗西书 2:11: 你们也在基督里受了非人手所行的割礼，是基督为除掉你们的罪恶本性而行的割礼。(page 1910) Matthew 22:37: You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 马太福音 22:37: 耶稣回答说：“你要全心、全情、全意爱主——你的上帝" (page 1600) Romans 2:29: …True circumcision…is a change of heart produced by God’s Spirit. 罗马书 2:29: 真割礼是借着圣灵在心里受的割礼，不在于律法条文。这样的人得到的称赞不是从人来的，而是从上帝来的。(page 1824) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/8e75b17fbd9fef10886129cd797a4405.jpg 83afe8a21324bf0dd2a21a9304a6cd41 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/444f8f19981933565a36fc59638fb6e7.mp4 209a1cc7fb321c5d5f3b03e4b2f484cb Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound ENOUGH: Living in the Fullness of Christ John 10:10 Those all-too-familiar 3am wake-ups... "Help me to realign with Your Purpose, Lord." At Course of Study, someone said, "You've gotta step on their toes." Really? Who is anyone that they should step on anyone else's toes? Bill Johnson reminds us: "Any thought you have that doesn't inspire hope is under the influence of a lie." And Jesus Christ himself declared: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." What has seemingly been stolen, killed, or destroyed in our lives during difficult seasons because we felt we were somehow without hope? Proverbs 4:23 instructs us: "Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life." The lie of the enemy is that there is always something lacking in you—that you'll never "measure up." This type of thinking creates fear, lack, and codependence. We look outside ourselves to find answers and wholeness. Yet Col 2:10 assures us: "You are complete in Him." "And you have been made complete in Christ." Still, people often feel they are in-complete. They may believe they are not worthy of connection, not worthy of love and belonging. We sometimes look for too much external approval. We live in the shame that we are somehow "not enough." These feelings hold us back; they limit us. Faith is not about feelings—it is believing that what GOD says is True. And GOD says, through Christ, "You are Enough." Remember what we discussed last week: 'You will never leave footprints that last if you are always walking on tiptoe.' You have a circumcised heart when what you ought to do and what you want to do are the same. As Bob Proctor wisely noted: "When you shift your perception, you shift your whole view on life." Here's a key insight: I have found that when I focus on what should flow through me (rather than what I might wish would come TO me), everything changes. When your heart is circumcised and you can more clearly hear from the Lord, you won't need the approval of others to step out in faith. Choose alignment over approval today. Are there people in your life that are hoping you will be The ONE? The One to move up, move out, to take the next generation to a Higher Level? "Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself" Some people would prefer that you remain your old self. We talk about comfort zones. Your comfort zone is also their comfort zone... …but we owe it to GOD to fulfill our potential. To trust we are already enough because of His Power at work within us. We sometimes find ourselves in a crisis in our faith, but what may in some ways look like a breakdown can really be an awakening. We need an awakening to who we really are—who we are In Christ. GOD wants you to know that through CHRIST—You Are Enough. 1 Thess 5:11 reminds us: "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." So, what's wrong with being an encourager? Consider the thermostat on your heart—WHO are you letting set YOUR thermostat? Don't let the voices of discouragement (VODs) shut you down. We are enough ONLY because of who we are in Christ Jesus. If we're going to experience this abundant life, we have to receive it by faith—that means we have to first believe it is possible for us to have it. So many people today are living in "survival" mode. They have a mentality that says, "If I can just make it through..." or "If I can just get by..." Of course, there are some seasons in our lives that are more difficult than others. Sometimes it's challenging to get a vision for the future. But "sight is not the same as vision"—we have to see beyond to see the truth. Jesus says that He came to give you a full, abundant life! "Father God, thank You for giving me abundant life through Jesus Christ. I believe that You have a good plan for my future. I declare that my days of thriving have begun as I continue to put my faith and trust in You alone in Jesus' name. Amen." Everything we receive from God we receive by faith. In order to receive the abundant life Jesus made possible for us, we're going to have to step away from the in-completeness that thinks we have to do something to qualify us to be loved, to be blessed, to be connected. You are enough. Complete. In Christ. Don't let the voices of dis-couragement shut you down. There is no perfection. Anyone who believes there is or insists that you should attain that status is in need of some personal observation time. People sometimes use achievement as a way to overcome their incompleteness and insecurities. But there is no goal that you could ever achieve that will convince you that you are enough. If you don't already believe it before you get there, you still won't once you do. Jordan Peterson: GOD only knows what’s inside of YOU. (so profound) "the power that worketh in us" (Ephesians 3:20). "Life is a gift, and it offers us the privilege, opportunity and responsibility to give back by becoming more." When we look for something outside of ourselves (rather than what God has put in us) to fill us up, we will always be less than satisfied with the results. You and I can never achieve true and lasting happiness as long as we keep craving what we do not have. People get all miserable and existential and start to question the meaning of life. But "the meaning of life is to give life meaning." "Remember the Mission" We have already been given a great deal, so it is time to start offering thanks for what we have. ("The person who has will be given more.") Out of this gratitude will come a passionate desire to offer something in return and to begin a life of giving. 1 Peter 4:8-9 instructs: "Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling." Emerson said: "To know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived, that is to have succeeded." And: "The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well." Romans 12:10 encourages us: "Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor." Remember the Mission: When we start thinking about what we can do for others, our mind will start to work in a different way. We redirect our thinking. Philippians 2:3-4 guides us: "Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." Ephesians 2:10 reminds us: "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Good Works – What are they? We have to step out in faith to find our full calling. If you are lost in the woods, start walking. Your perspective will never change if you just stand still. "When you shift your perception, you shift your whole view on life." So, here it is in summary: “Through Christ, you are enough. When you come from that revelation, you can go out and be enough to serve God in your Divine Purpose.” You Are Enough when you release the abundance that is already inside of you through Jesus Christ. "Release the hurt. Release the fear. Refuse to entertain your old pain. The energy it takes to hang on to the past is holding you back from a new life. What is it you would let go of today?" Bitterness imprisons life; LOVE releases it. God can turn your scars into stars. Romans 8:28 assures us: "We know that God works all things together for good for the ones who love God, for those who are called according to His purpose." You Are Enough—Because the Greater One Lives in You. A thief has only one thing in mind—he wants to steal, slaughter, and destroy. But Christ has come to give you everything in abundance, more than you expect—life in its fullness until you overflow! Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource ENOUGH 够用 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 10/26/2025 Description An account of the resource John 10:10 - A thief has only one thing in mind—he wants to steal, slaughter, and destroy. But I have come to give you everything in abundance, more than you expect —life in its fullness until you overflow! 約 翰 福 音 10:10 -小偷来只会偷、会杀、会破坏。我来是为了让他们获得生命—那是富足和美好的生命。(page 1738) Col 2:9,10: For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority. 歌罗西书 2:9,10 -因为上帝完全的神性有形有体地蕴藏在基督里，你们在基督里得到了丰盛的生命。祂是一切执政者和掌权者的元首。(page 1910) Prov 4:23: More than anything you guard, protect your mind, for life flows from it. 箴言 4:23: 你要谨守你的心，胜过谨守一切，因为生命的泉源由此而出。(page 1038) Ephesians 3:19-20: That you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us 以 弗 所 書 3:19,20: 基督的爱比任何人所能知道的都要伟大。但是，我祈祷你们能够知道那种爱，这样，你们才能彻底被上帝的丰富所充满。 上帝运用工作在我们之中的力量，能够成就远超过我们所求和所想的事情。(page 1897) Philippians 2:3,4: Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." 腓 立 比 書 2:3,4: 做任何事情都不要出于自私自利和骄傲自大，要谦卑，要视他人高于自己。 不要只顾自己的利益，也要关心别人的利益。(page 1903) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/e91f971a97a94ec2179f5f459f755913.PNG 2679d0e28dec3601cd47f4ba64ab95c0 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/3aa8f23192947c1949d774568ded0d52.mp4 f254bd471ae6ba4cc25346f899f39bc2 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound “Changed by Beholding—Not by Trying” 2 Corinthians 3:18 Triggers. Pushing my buttons. 2025: Am I being changed? “How can I change the world if I can’t change myself?” Good morning, church. (ever had to do a book report?) I want to talk with you today about a powerful book written many years ago — and a truth that has changed my walk with God. The book is called “Changed Into His Likeness” It’s the simple but powerful idea that we are not changed by striving… …we are changed by beholding. The author didn’t just believe these words he shared – he gave his life for them. to “behold” To look at or see with attention - to regard or contemplate something. John 1:29: John the Baptist sees Jesus and proclaims, "Behold the Lamb of God, Who takes away the sin of the world". By identifying Jesus as the Lamb of God, John is identifying him as the ultimate sacrifice sent by God to pay for the sins of the world, bringing redemption We must all behold Him – as our Savior, Healer, Provider, and Redeemer. 2 Cor 3:18: “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” If we have “un-veiled faces,” that must mean The Veil Has Been Lifted Under the old covenant, a veil covered people’s hearts. They saw God through the lens of their own effort …and their own failures. But today, as Paul says, “We all — with unveiled face — behold the glory of the Lord.” That means when Jesus died on that cross and the veil of the temple was torn in two, God was saying: “The striving is over. The way is open. Stop trying to become what only My Grace can make you.” Some of us have been trying so hard to change ourselves. (Amen?) Trying to be more patient, more loving, more spiritual. Grace doesn’t say “try harder” — grace says “look closer.” Look to Jesus. (as Christians, we should always point people in one direction – to Jesus) Heb 12:2: Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to end. When you look at yourself, (honestly) you may feel condemned. When you look at Jesus, you’ll feel transformed. We are changed into His likeness as we behold Him. Galatians 2:20 says, “It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” The author calls this the secret of the Christian life: “God’s means of deliverance from sin is not to strengthen our old self, but to replace it with Christ” You see, God’s not trying to improve your flesh. He’s given you a new spirit — His Spirit. He doesn’t want a better “you.” He wants a Christ-in-you. Let’s say that together: “It’s no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” That means when you wake up in the morning, you can say, “Jesus, Live through me today. Love through me. Think through me. Speak through me.” And as you do, by His grace, you’ll find that you’re becoming more and more like Him — not by effort, but by overflow “we all become like mirrors who brightly reflect the glory of the Lord Jesus.” Now listen carefully — this is the heart of this message and the heart of grace itself. We are changed into His likeness as we behold Him. When we spend time in His Word — not to get points, not to perform, but just to see Him revealed — we’re actually being transformed. We may not always be aware of it, but the Spirit is doing a quiet miracle inside of us. Jesus said (John 6:63) “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.” “His Word is working mightily in me.” It’s like standing in the sunlight. You don’t have to try to get warm — you just stay there long enough, and the warmth finds you. Moses’ face shone because he beheld the Lord on the mountain. We stay in His Presence — and it will begin to shine from our lives.  Now, grace does not mean laziness. It means learning the rhythm of Heaven: rest comes before results. …the “the unforced rhythms of grace” mentioned in Matt 11 When you know you’ve been made righteous, you’ll start living righteously. When you know you’re forgiven, you’ll start forgiving more easily. When you know that you’re loved, you’ll start loving more freely. That’s the “from glory to glory” life Paul talked about. Stop measuring your progress by your performance. Start measuring it by your posture — Are you resting in Him? Are you beholding Him? Because that’s where the Spirit does His best work. 2 Corinthians 3:18 ends by saying, “…just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” Zechariah 4:6: It’s “not by might, not by power, but by His Spirit.” Growth comes through spiritual disciple. The key word there is spiritual Time in God’s Presence. It involves deliberate effort, but the more importantly it requires surrender. You and I can’t make ourselves more like Jesus — but the Holy Spirit can, and He’s already at work in you. Every time you turn your heart toward Jesus… Every time you worship when it’s hard… Every time you choose to believe you’re loved instead of condemned… He’s shaping you into the image of the Son. That’s the miracle of grace. Every time the enemy brings accusations before God, the blood of Jesus speaks louder. It declares you forgiven, redeemed, and justified. The cross already settled your case — your past has no legal right to condemn your future. The accuser may bring up your record, but the blood of the Lamb erased every charge and stamped your life “Paid in Full.” Start your day with identity. Before your feet hit the floor, whisper: “I am the righteousness of God in Christ.” Say it until your heart believes it. Feed on His Word of grace. Don’t just read His Word for information — read for revelation. Ask, “Jesus, where are You in this passage?” Look to Jesus, not to yourself. When you fail — and you will sometimes — don’t turn inward in shame. Turn upward in faith. The same Jesus who saved you is still the One who sanctifies you. Rest in His love. Grace is not a push; it’s a pull. Let His love pull you into the kind of life you were made to live. 2 Tim 2:22: Whatever builds up your faith and deepens your love must become your holy pursuit. And if you’ll just keep beholding Jesus, one day soon you’ll step out radiant, renewed, changed into His likeness — from glory to glory. Let’s pray together. “Lord Jesus, thank You that transformation isn’t my burden — it’s Your promise. Thank You that as I behold You, I am changed into Your likeness. Not by my effort, but by Your Spirit. Not by the law, but by grace. Today I rest in Your finished work, and I receive Your life in me. In Jesus’ Name — Amen.” Now, say this with me: “I am changed — because I behold Jesus. I am free — because the veil is gone. I am loved — because of His grace. And I am being transformed — from glory to glory!” Church, this week, don’t strive to become. Behold who you already are in Him. …And you’ll find His likeness shining through your life more than ever before. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones: "Salvation isn't merely about forgiveness, but about being "conformed to the image of his son" Romans 8:29: God knew from the beginning who would put their trust in Him. So He chose them and made them to be like His Son. What does it mean to reflect the glory of God? It means to be conformed to the image of God. It means to turn away from oneself and trust wholly in Christ. We are changed into His likeness as we behold Him. Heb 12:2: Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to end. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource BEHOLD 看哪 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/02/2025 Description An account of the resource 2 Corinthians 3:18: But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. 歌 林 多 後 書 3:18: 我们的脸不被蒙上。我们都显示了主的荣耀。我们都变得像他一样，在我们中的这种变化会带来了越来越多的荣耀。这荣耀来自主，即圣灵。(page 1873) John 1:29: The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 约翰福音 1:29: 次日，约翰看见耶稣来到他那里，就说： “看哪，神的羔羊，除去[a]世人罪孽的！ (page 1717) Galatians 2:20: I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. 加 拉 太 書 2:20: 所以，现在活在我体内的不再是我本人， 而是基督。我凭信仰生活在上帝之子之中，他爱我，并为我牺牲了自己。(page 1887) 2 Tim 2:22: Whatever builds up your faith and deepens your love must become your holy pursuit. 提摩太后书 2:22: 你要逃避少年的私欲，同那清心祷告主的人追求公义、信德、仁爱、和平。(page 1931) 2 Corinthians 5:21: God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 哥林多后书 5:21: 神使那无罪[a]的替我们成为罪，好叫我们在他里面成为神的义。(page 1875) Zechariah 4:6: Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord of hosts. 撒迦利亚书 4:6: 万军之耶和华说，‘不靠权势，不靠才能，乃靠我的灵。(page 1539) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/dfdd8dc961abebfdc8c9414193e9b109.jpg 0d4c7eef6563e1a3223c20c748b211aa https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/385647f2446f38175bfd0b9695544e6e.mp4 0897a11de483f989f9a6e440d5669fe6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound When the Heart Grows Hard: The Hidden Danger That Blocks Transformation Heb 3:12-15 Imagine standing beside a frozen lake in the middle of winter. The surface is smooth and hard, reflecting the pale sunlight like glass. But beneath that frozen surface, life was still there — the water, the movement, the current — just trapped under the ice. Looking out across that silent sheet of ice, the Lord whispers to your heart: “This is what happens when your heart grows hard. My life is still there… …but it can no longer flow.” Sometimes transformation stops happening in our lives - not because God withdrew… it stops because our hearts grew hard. Watchman Nee once said, “Before a person hardens his heart, his heart is not hard. But once he decides to harden it, it becomes hard — and remains hard.” That’s why Hebrews 3:15 warns us, “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” We talked about “beholding” last week. Before we can be transformed through beholding, our hearts must first be soft enough (not hard) to behold. How the Hardening Begins: Eph 4:17,18: So with the wisdom given to me from the Lord I say: You should not live like the unbelievers around you who walk in their empty delusions. Their corrupted logic has been clouded because their hearts are so far from God—their blinded understanding and deep-seated moral darkness keeps them from the true knowledge of God. “They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to the hardness of their heart.” Nee said, “The trouble starts from the heart.” …And that hardening rarely happens overnight — it begins with neglect. Maybe God nudged your heart, but you brushed it off. Maybe conviction came, but you said, “I’ll deal with that later.” I remember one autumn morning (my favorite time of year) I noticed, “I am not feeling the joy – the exhilaration that I used to feel when the weather gets like this. Where is aliveness I used to feel? Jesus warned: Matt 13:15: ‘For the hearts of these people are hardened, and their ears cannot hear, and they have closed their eyes— so their eyes cannot see, and their ears cannot hear, and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and let me heal them.’ …as we already said, that hardening rarely happens overnight — it begins with neglect. Then slowly, you stop feeling what you used to feel… Maybe the same worship songs don’t move you. The same scriptures don’t stir you. You’re doing all the right things — but inside, you’re past feeling. That’s the second stage — numbness. ( ) Maybe someone hurt you so badly that you decided just to let your heart freeze up like that frozen lake we talked about. Tony Robbins: You will hang on to your pain until you find something you value more than your pain. And the last stage? Alienation. Not because God left — but because your heart quietly closed its door. Hebrews 3:12: So search your hearts every day, my brothers and sisters, and make sure that none of you has evil or unbelief hiding within you. For it will lead you astray, and make you unresponsive to the living God. Remember when Moses went to Pharaoh and said, “Let my people go?” Exodus 5:1: "Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, 'Let my people go…” Each time Moses spoke, Pharaoh hardened his heart. Eventually Scripture says, “God hardened Pharaoh’s heart.” Before God ever hardened it, Pharaoh hardened it himself. Each refusal made his heart a little less responsive, until he could no longer feel anything at all. That’s the danger of a hardened heart — you may not even realize it’s happening. On that beautiful autumn day I experienced (or, rather, didn’t experience,) something in me spoke louder than many outward signs would have… I realized I wasn’t feeling the joy I would normally feel. I realized my heart was clogged up with all “the cares of this world.” Jesus’ teaching on The Parable of the Sower is often used to describe how these worldly distractions (the cares of this world) can "choke" one's spiritual life and make it unfruitful. Jesus describes this dangerous kind of soil as “thorny ground” Mark 4:18,19: And what is sown among thorns represents those who hear the message, but they allow the cares of this life and the seduction of wealth and the desires for other things to crowd out and choke the message so that it produces nothing. Can you relate? (has this ever been you?) Psalm 139:23: God, I invite your searching gaze into my heart. Examine me through and through; find out everything that may be hidden within me. Symptoms of a Hard Heart • You’re doing the right things, but there’s no warmth. • You hear truth, but it doesn’t pierce you. • You know Scripture, but it no longer convicts you. • You get defensive instead of repentant when corrected. A hardened heart is not a punishment — it’s a condition. • When your heart closes, light can’t enter. When light can’t enter, truth becomes just… theory. And when truth becomes theory, transformation stops. The truth is, the root cause of many diseases lies in the heart. “When the heart is corrupted, the whole being is affected.” When the religious leaders argued with Jesus about traditions regarding what kind of foods were proper, He re-directed them to the true problem: (from Mark 7:20-23) “Words and deeds pollute a person, not food. Evil originates from inside a person…these corrupt things emerge from within (the heart) and constantly defile a person.” Matthew 5:8: (Jesus) “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” To see God — to behold Him — requires a soft, open heart. “The trouble starts from the heart; therefore, the cure must start from the heart.” And here’s the cure: Beholding softens what striving cannot. John 1:29: John the Baptist sees Jesus and proclaims, "Behold the Lamb of God, Who takes away the sin of the world". When you Behold the Lamb of God — when you see His mercy, His meekness, His tears — the heart melts. Receive God’s healing and forgiveness today – and offer hat same grace to others. Job 42:10: After Job had prayed for his friends, the LORD restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before. "see the cross and behold medicine for your soul and body" are you hungry for this revelation today? Four ways to reopen that flow: 1. Return to beholding — sit quietly before Him until you feel again. 2. Invite the Spirit to expose numbness — “Search me, O God.” 3. Respond quickly — every act of obedience keeps the heart tender. 4. Practice gratitude — thanksgiving re-sensitizes the soul. You don’t need to try harder — you need to look longer. (Beholding) God doesn’t want to condemn our hard heart — He wants to replace it. Ezekiel 36:26: “I will remove the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” That’s the invitation today. Let Him trade your stone for flesh. James 4:8 “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” Our heart is the soil for God’s Word. The thorny ground Jesus taught about is a double-minded heart A new heart is the KEY to a new life – a true change ,…and that change can also will impact everyone around you. The change in you can bring about a revolution around you. BE the ONE “You are most qualified to help the person you used to be.” Your new destiny is waiting on the other side of your softened heart. Let Jesus give you a heart that feels again, that believes again, that beholds again. When the heart grows hard, we stop being changed by beholding. …But when the heart grows soft again, the image of Christ shines once more. “Lord, melt my heart again. Where I’ve grown cold, warm me. Where I’ve been numb, touch me. Where I’ve tried (in my own power) instead of beheld YOU, teach me to look again. Restore the tenderness that lets me see You clearly. Amen.” Ezekial 36:26: A new heart also will I give you and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource When the Heart Grows Hard 心变硬的时候 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/09/2025 Description An account of the resource Heb 3:15: Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts. 希伯来书 3:15: 今日你们若听见祂的声音，就不可硬着心。 (page 1942) Eph 4:17,18: So with the wisdom given to me from the Lord I say: You should not live like the unbelievers around you who walk in their empty delusions. Their corrupted logic has been clouded because their hearts are so far from God—their blinded understanding and deep-seated moral darkness keeps them from the true knowledge of God. 以弗所书 4:17,18: 因此，我奉主的名郑重地劝告各位，不要再像不信的外族人一样过着心灵空虚的日子。 他们因为愚昧无知， 顽固不化，理智受到蒙蔽，与上帝所赐的生命隔绝了 (pg 1898) Hebrews 3:12: So search your hearts every day, my brothers and sisters, and make sure that none of you has evil or unbelief hiding within you. For it will lead you astray, and make you unresponsive to the living God. 希伯来书 3:12: 弟兄姊妹，要谨慎，免得你们当中有人心存恶念，不肯相信，背弃了永活的上帝。 (page 1942) Ezekiel 36:26: I will remove the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 以西结书 36:26: 我必从你们肉体中除掉石心，赐给你们肉心。 (page 1408) Matt 5:8: Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. 马太福音 5:8: 清心的人有福了，因为他们必得见神。(page 1563) Matthew 13:15: ‘For the hearts of these people are hardened, and their ears cannot hear, and they have closed their eyes— so their eyes cannot see, and their ears cannot hear, and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and let me heal them.’ 马太福音 13:15: 因为这些人心灵麻木，耳朵发背，眼睛昏花， 以致眼睛看不见，耳朵听不见，心里不明白，无法回心转意， 得不到我的医治。 (page 1580) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/d1f4adf78d95772501e6d0709d057a86.jpg 5bb885ce99a1810942612668271ab9d3 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/4b76d5b76eff95212bfc5a81e23f762a.mp4 c8755aa2f79db388721764616e22182f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound The Flow of Life: From Stagnation to Overflow John 7:38 25 years ago our family experienced three out of four seasons in New England (we only missed the summer) Last week, we stood beside a frozen lake - still, silent, unmoving. The surface was hard and lifeless, though beneath it, the water still existed. …But when spring comes, something quiet, yet miraculous happens. The ice doesn't shatter - it softens. The gentle warmth of the sun accomplishes what brute force cannot. Slowly, cracks begin to echo across the surface. Water starts to run. The frozen stillness gives way to flow again. Holy Spirit whispers to our hearts today: "When the heart grows soft, the life begins to flow." Jesus : Luke 4:18: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he has sent me to heal the brokenhearted..." This is why Jesus began His ministry with these words - because the thaw of our heart (repentance in its truest sense) stands at the very center of His anointing: Psalm 147:3 affirms: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Jesus came to heal - to thaw - the brokenhearted. That is the miracle that happens when grace melts what human striving never could - everything that was once stuck begins to move – to flow - again. “flow” We know Jesus is the Vine, and we are the branches (John 15:5). In the imagery of the river - He is the Source - we are His streams of life, flowing from Him. Without the Source, there is nothing to flow. (2 Cor 3:5 read) Jesus declared in John 7:38, "Whoever believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water." Notice the abundance in His promise - not trickles, not drops, but rivers. This flow is not something we generate through effort; it's something we release by surrender. It flows from Him through us. We've already explored the transformative power of Beholding in this series, and then examined the dangers of a hardened heart. Today, we turn to the blessings of a softened - thawed - heart. The Normal Christian Life reveals this truth: "God's purpose is not that we should live for Him, but that Christ should live in us and through us." As Galatians 2:20 declares, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Why would we cling to our frozen, hard-hearted state when a Springtime thaw stands ready to restore us back to life - beginning this very moment? When the heart is soft, Christ's life flows effortlessly. When it's hard or self-reliant, that flow becomes blocked. The Christian life was never meant to be a dam - it's meant to be a riverbed, as Psalm 1:3 describes the righteous: "That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers." Sometimes the blockage in our hearts comes from self-effort - trying to produce what only grace can release. Sometimes it's unforgiveness - holding on to hurts that keep the water trapped. Matthew 6:14-15 reminds us, "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." Sometimes it's fear - tightening control (fist) instead of trusting the current, forgetting 2 Timothy 1:7, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." Watchman Nee wisely noted, "The life of the Spirit is the spontaneous life of liberty." Jesus reminds us in Galatians 5:1, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." Freedom is not the reward of trying harder - it's the natural state of a heart no longer frozen. The free-flowing Life of Christ through us Romans 8:6 teaches, "The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace." We can respond to the Holy Spirit and see the ice begin to melt When the heart thaws, the first sound is cracking. It's uncomfortable - the sound of things breaking open. But then comes the rush. Step 1 - Let light in. Psalm 36:9 reminds us, "In Your light, we see light." When God's truth touches what was hidden, life begins to move. John 8:32 promises, "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." Step 2 - Let go. As the ice breaks, the old layers drift away. Release what God is surfacing - bitterness, regret, control. (fist) (fist) The tightly closed heart may block the pain – but it also blocks the joy Step 3 - Let flow. "Believe in me so that rivers of living water will burst out from within you, flowing from your innermost being, just like the Scripture says!" (John 7:38). The rivers don't come from your effort; they come from His presence. As Isaiah 58:11 promises, "The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail." Step 4 - Let overflow. Once the river moves freely, it naturally begins to bless others - love, prayer, compassion all overflow without strain. “Blessed to BE a Blessing” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 reminds us, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God." "My cup overflows" (Psalm 23:5) becomes not just a scripture but a living reality. The melting usually starts gradually… Maybe even now you're already sensing a small current within - a prayer you didn't force, a tenderness you thought you had lost. That's how it begins. Don't rush the river; let it find its way. • When life flows again, you don't have to force worship - it rises naturally. You don't have to manufacture peace - it dwells within you. You don't have to pretend joy - it bubbles up from the spring within. Transformation happens because the current carries you. "The Christian life is not our struggling to live for Christ, but letting Christ live in us." That is The Normal Christian Life - not striving to serve, but abiding to flow. John 15:4-5 captures this beautifully: "Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." Galatians 5:22-23 describes this fruit: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." VINE Notice these are not produced by effort but grown by connection. Possibly even last week your heart began to thaw, and today you sense something stirring - …movement, renewal, life returning. Don't rush it. Don't try to control it. Just remain under the warmth of His presence. Let Him do the melting. Let the living water find its course through you. Because when the heart is open, His life flows - not only to you, but through you, and beyond you - carrying healing wherever it goes. Jesus: "Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water." (John 7:38) The flow of His Life begins once more to be released in your life, and everything begins to be changed... refreshed... renewed. New Life. God doesn't just repair... He restores and resurrects. As Isaiah 43:19 declares, "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." "HE restores my soul" (Psalm 23:3) We are changed not by trying harder, but by beholding Him - and when we behold, His life begins to flow. 2 Cor 3:18 confirms, "And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." Prayer: Lord, let Your life flow freely in me again. Break every dam of fear, every wall of control. Melt what has grown cold, and move what has become stagnant. Teach me to live not by striving, but by flowing. May Your Spirit turn every stagnant place into a river of life. As Ezekiel 47:9 promises, "where the river flows everything will live." Amen. Jesus says to us today, "Believe in Me so that rivers of living water will burst out from within you, flowing from your innermost being, just like the Scripture says!" Let the river flow, let the river flow; Holy spirit come, move in power. Acts 3:20: Times of refreshing Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource FLOW 流动 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/16/2025 Description An account of the resource John 7:37,38: On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” 约翰福音 7:37,38: 节期最后一天，也是整个节期的高潮，耶稣站起来高声说：“人若渴了，可以到我这里来喝。 正如圣经所言，信我的人，‘从他里面要流出活水的江河来’。” (page 1732) Luke 4:18: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he has sent me to heal the brokenhearted..." 路加福音 4:18:“主的灵在我身上，因为他膏我去传福音给贫穷的人，差遣我去宣告被掳的得释放，瞎眼的得看见，受压制的得自由，(pg 1664) Psalm 147:3: He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. 诗篇 147:3: 祂医治心灵破碎的人，包扎他们的创伤。(page 1029) 2 Cor 3:4,5: We carry this confidence in our hearts because of our union with Christ before God. Yet we don’t see ourselves as capable enough to do anything in our own strength, for our true competence flows from God’s empowering presence. 歌 林 多 後 書 3:4,5: 通过基督，我们在上帝面前有这样的信心作这样的声明。 我们的意思并不是说我们凭自己能做任何好事，是上帝使我们能够做到我们所做的 (page 1872) Psalm 1:3: That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers. 诗篇 1:3: 他就像溪水旁的树木——按时结果子， 叶子也不凋零。他必凡事亨通。 (page 881) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/2151f9290c7bcbfe0de3cdae96c5ebd4.jpg 0c494f4191b77ab61b2bf65dc8ec6876 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/e21515a4e4e4572b732470613677e6c0.mp4 abda8be1c104c691c499d03bb97192f5 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound A Holy Calling 2025 2 Timothy 1:6-9 It is fun to explain to our international church family just how important college football is here in the Southern United States. “It’s not a matter of life or death, it is much more important than that”  Usually, we align ourselves with one school – one team – and then we stick with it, good years and bad years. When people ask me, as they often do in the south, who I pull for in college football, I let them know I am a lifelong Georgia fan. I tell them I was “literally born a Georgia Bulldog.” My mother and father went to school there, I grew up in Athens, and most of all, my dad was on the UGA football broadcast team when I was a wee young’un. You can’t argue with that, can you? Much MUCH more importantly, you and I, whether in the sanctuary or as a part of our online church family, are part of a bigger team with a much higher calling. What is Our Mission? What is Our Purpose? Nehemiah 2:17-18: “Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.” I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work.” “Thankful people recognize the mission they have to fulfill and they rise and build.” Why are we thankful? vs 9: “He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.” You have a holy calling on your life - and it already was there when you first opened your newborn eyes. Even before time began. Things to focus on today: share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God. He has saved us and called us with a holy calling not according to our works according to his own purpose and grace, given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. The change we want to see in our lives – our families – our community – our nation – starts with a new hope in our hearts. The change literally has to flow through us. “I would have been without hope if I had not believed that I would see the loving-kindness of the Lord in the land of the living.” This quote is from Psalm 27:13 and speaks to the importance of faith and hope - even in difficult times. It expresses the idea that without belief in God's ultimate goodness and a future in the "land of the living," a person would despair and lose hope. The verse encourages perseverance, strength, and courage in the face of adversity by focusing on a confident expectation of God's faithfulness. 2 Tim 1:12 (Paul) “The confidence of my calling enables me to overcome every difficulty without shame” If you’re still breathing – you’re still in this “It is not over” (We walk by faith) If you truly live by faith you believe that the battle is the Lord’s Faith Sees – Faith Believes – Faith Steps Out Psalm 27:14: Here’s what I’ve learned through it all: Don’t give up; don’t be impatient; be entwined as one with the Lord. Be brave and courageous, and never lose hope. Yes, keep on waiting—for he will never disappoint you! In today’s lesson, Paul wrote to Timothy, “I’m writing to encourage you to fan into a flame and rekindle the fire of the spiritual gift God imparted to you when I laid my hands upon you. For God will never give you the spirit of fear, but the Holy Spirit who gives you mighty power, love, and self-control.” Spurgeon: “Every living saint has (their) charge to keep, (their) talent over which they are a steward. A measure of a gift is in all of us, needing to be stirred up.” 2 Tim 1:6: “Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you…” Methodist Hymnal: A Charge to Keep I Have • “A charge to keep I have, a God to glorify” • “To serve the present age, my calling to fulfill…” Eph 2:10: "We are his workmanship" As we close out 2025, if we are determined to still to “rise and build,” we must do it through God’s Power at work within us. (2 Tim 1:9) “God saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace. He gave us this grace in King Jesus before all time and ages…” “Not according to our works” – which reminds me (reminds most of us, no doubt,) of Eph 2:8: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Spurgeon: “Again, in order to shut out everything like boasting, the whole is spoken of as a gift. Do notice that, "purpose and grace which He gave us" — not "which He sold us," "offered us," but "which He gave us." “God saved us and chose us to be his holy people. We did nothing to deserve this, but God planned it because he is so kind. Even before time began God planned for Christ Jesus to show kindness to us.” As a Believer: • You are Saved • You have a Holy Calling …and it is a gift of God We are to be Christian soldiers – putting on the gospel armor – holy instruments of God’s reconciliation. Are we up to the challenge? This is a tough season Jesus said (John 16:33) “I have told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world you will have troubles. But be brave! I have defeated the world!” In our scripture today, Paul says we are to “share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God.” “fan into a flame and rekindle the fire of the spiritual gift God imparted to you” This is our time to get strengthened and equipped Psalm 90:12: Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Now is the time to feed our faith and starve our doubts Embrace our total salvation by grace through faith God gives the believer “the Holy Spirit who gives (us) mighty power, love, and self-control.” The Living Word speaks to you and me in this hour just like it has in every hour and in every age – if we will listen and apply it AMP: [For it is He] Who delivered and saved us and called us with a calling in itself holy and leading to holiness [to a life of consecration, a vocation of holiness]; [He did it] not because of anything of merit that we have done, but because of and to further His own purpose and grace (unmerited favor) which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began [eternal ages ago]. omnipotence: the quality of having unlimited or very great power. universal power We serve an Omnipotent, Almighty God Rev 19:6 - Then I heard what seemed to be the thunderous voice of a great multitude, like the sound of a massive waterfall and mighty peals of thunder, crying out: “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns!” As a Believer: • You are Saved • You have a Holy Calling …and it is a gift of God They replied, “’Let us start rebuilding.’ So they began this good work.” 2 Tim 1:2: I pray for a greater release of God’s grace, love, and total well-being to flow into your life from God our Father and from our Lord Jesus Christ! Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource A Holy Calling 神圣的呼召 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/23/2025 Description An account of the resource 2 Timothy 1:9: He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. 提 摩 太 後 書 1:9: 神 救 了 我 们 ， 以 圣 召 召 我 们 ， 不 是 按 我 们 的 行 为 ， 乃 是 按 他 的 旨 意 和 恩 典 ； 这 恩 典 是 万 古 之 先 ， 在 基 督 耶 稣 里 赐 给 我 们 的 ， (page 1929) 2 Timothy 1:6,7: That is why I want you to remember the gift God gave you. God gave you that gift when I laid my hands on you. Now I want you to use that gift and let it grow more and more, like a small flame grows into a fire. 7 The Spirit God gave us does not make us afraid. His Spirit is a source of power and love and self-control. 提 摩 太 後 書 1:6,7:为 此 我 提 醒 你 ， 使 你 将 神 藉 我 按 手 所 给 你 的 恩 赐 再 如 火 挑 旺 起 来 。因 为 神 赐 给 我 们 ， 不 是 胆 怯 的 心 ， 乃 是 刚 强 、 仁 爱 、 谨 守 的 心 。 (pg 1929) Psalm 27:14: "Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!" 詩 篇 27:14: 要 等 候 耶 和 华 ！ 当 壮 胆 ， 坚 固 你 的 心 ！ 我 再 说 ， 要 等 候 耶 和 华 ！(page 905) Ephesians 2:10: For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them 以 弗 所 書 2:10: 我 们 原 是 他 的 工 作 ， 在 基 督 耶 稣 里 造 成 的 ， 为 要 叫 我 们 行 善 ， 就 是 神 所 预 备 叫 我 们 行 的 。 (page 1895) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/da653b15691bf3f4feb95d23a387d561.png 207ddfe723698df3273efb4fc392b299 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/85e9bb8f609fd94ec0e2531551dae706.mp4 de377d1db648b97602b1a3130bd89add Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Staying Full of God: Guarding the Heart from Spiritual Dulling Romans 1:21 There's a small glass jar in my prayer area that holds a candle. When the candle was new, the flame burned bright - warm, clean, steady. But over time, something began to happen. Not suddenly... but slowly. A thin film of soot began to coat the glass. At first, you could hardly notice it. The flame was still there - still burning - but its light didn't shine through the way it used to. As the days went by, the glass grew darker. Nothing was wrong with the flame itself... but the film around it kept thickening - dimming the glow, muting the warmth, obscuring the brightness. One day, I finally wiped the glass clean. And immediately - without adding wax, or oxygen, or fuel - the flame looked brighter. Nothing new had been added. Nothing had changed about the flame. The only thing that changed... was removing what had built up around it. "Most believers don't lose the flame - they lose the clarity." "You may carry the Spirit, but does the Spirit carry you?" Not because the Spirit left... but because the heart grew coated - slowly - over time. And that is exactly what Romans 1:21 describes: "For though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or show gratitude. Instead, their thinking became worthless, and their senseless hearts were darkened." This is a message for those with hungry hearts today. Hungry for more. Hungry for a closer walk with God. Advent Week One is HOPE. Let our Hope be in a greater revelation of Jesus today. Jesus said: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” (Matt 5:6) > Let’s break this down by each of its parts… 1. (For though they knew God )“They did not glorify Him as God” To glorify God means to magnify Him — to make Him bigger in our hearts than anything else. Whatever you focus on, you magnify. Heb 10:38: “ …but my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.” “Faith is the positive response to what God has already given you by grace.” When we stop glorifying (magnifying) God: - problems grow larger - fears grow louder - emotions sit on the throne But when we deliberately magnify Him: - faith rises - clarity returns - His presence fills our awareness Psalm 35:27: “Let the LORD be magnified who hath pleasure in the prosperity of His servant.” Start each day by exalting God before examining circumstances. Psalm 145:18: The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. 2. For though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or show gratitude. The second step downward is ingratitude. (not being grateful) Gratitude is the retaining wall that keeps revelation from leaking out of the heart. Ingratitude: - Shrinks our awareness of grace - Feeds disappointment Thanksgiving: - Sensitizes the heart - Anchors joy 1 Thess 5:18: In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. When we thank God IN everything, and our hearts stay tender toward Him. 3. “They became vain in their imaginations” “they entertained corrupt and foolish thoughts about what God was like.” Once God is no longer magnified and gratitude fades, the mind begins to drift. “Vain imaginations” means: - letting thoughts go unchecked - meditating on worst-case scenarios - picturing defeat instead of promise We don’t have to surrender to this fate – we were called to fight it - victoriously 2 Cor 10:5: We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ… Andrew Wommack says “The imagination is ‘the womb of the heart’ — whatever you dwell on in-ternally is birthed ex-ternally.” “out of the abundance of the heart” If I turn on the DVD player to watch “Platoon” and instead it’s some lame movie called “The Notebook” – what went wrong? What movie are we replaying in our minds? Replace mental movies of fear with pictures of God’s faithfulness. 4. “Their foolish heart was darkened” “This left them with nothing but misguided hearts, steeped in moral darkness.” The final step is not intellectual darkness — it is heart darkness. A darkened heart: - loses spiritual sensitivity - stops recognizing God’s voice - feels far from God 1 Sam 16:7: Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart. When God looks into our hearts, what does He find? Jesus said ( Matt 6:21 ) “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” A heart that was set on serving God and hearing His voice can slowly drift away by the distractions of this world. Heb 2:1: So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. But here’s the hope: If decline has four steps, restoration has four steps in reverse: 1. Glorify Him 2. Give Thanks 3. Sanctify Imagination 4. Heart Enlightened This is how we stay full of God. Maybe you haven’t rebelled. Maybe you haven’t drifted morally. …But maybe you’ve gone dim inside. Today, God invites you to: - glorify Him again - give thanks again - renew your minds (imagination) again - let your heart brighten again You don’t need a breakthrough — you need a return to awareness. Prayer Lord, I magnify You above every distraction, fear, and circumstance. Thank You for Your goodness, Your presence, Your faithfulness in my life. Purify my imagination and align it with Your promises. Enlighten my heart again. Keep me full of You — tender, awake, aware, and responsive. Amen. Hosea 6:3: Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.” Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource FULL 充满 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/30/2025 Description An account of the resource Romans 1:21: For though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or show gratitude. Instead, their thinking became worthless, and their senseless hearts were darkened." 羅 馬 書 1:21: 因 为 ， 他 们 虽 然 知 道 神 ， 却 不 当 作 神 荣 耀 他 ， 也 不 感 谢 他 。 他 们 的 思 念 变 为 虚 妄 ， 无 知 的 心 就 昏 暗 了 。(page 1822) Psalm 145:18: The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth." 詩 篇 145:18: 凡 求 告 耶 和 华 的 ， 就 是 诚 心 求 告 他 的 ， 耶 和 华 便 与 他 们 相 近 。 (page 1028) 1 Thessalonians 5:18: In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 帖 撒 羅 尼 迦 前 書 5:18: 凡 事 谢 恩 ； 因 为 这 是 神 在 基 督 耶 稣 里 向 你 们 所 定 的 旨 意 。 (page 1918) 2 Corinthians 10:5: We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ..." 歌 林 多 後 書 10:5: 摧毁一切抬高自己、对抗上帝知识的高傲障碍。我们要俘虏每一种思想，使它们降服于基督。(page 1880) Matthew 6:21: For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." 馬 太 福 音 6:21: 你们的财宝在哪里，你们的心也会在那里。 (page 1567) Heb 2:1: So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. 希 伯 來 書 2:1: 因此，我们必须更加注意我们所听到的那些事情（真理）(page 1940) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/bad55c55ffdf831ed014357cb9069f45.jpg d082be24548083b8b1732cfbd55ef9bc https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/737c143be9e2db04c828578b769af81e.mp4 3b76870d0c731217dbc97cfea05d7ef3 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Finding True Peace: Advent Week 2 "We've got work to do to put right what has gone wrong, to heal what is broken, to mend the relationships, and to prepare for the company that will come." Peace. It's what we all long for, isn't it? That freedom from disturbance, that tranquility, that wholeness the Bible calls 'shalom.' As Augustine so beautifully put it: "Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in thee." Without peace, our souls cannot truly rest. Colin Hay captures this internal turmoil in his song "Storm in My Heart": "I used to wonder as I lie on my bed Can I hear thunder or am I confused By what lies ahead? And I got storm in my heart Tearing me apart Storm in my heart" That storm - that restlessness - is what brings many of us here today. We're searching for something our world simply cannot provide. We desperately seek peace in our lives, don't we? We try everything - relationships, achievements, possessions, even religious activities. …Yet so many of us still find ourselves coming up short, still feeling that storm raging within. “storm in my heart - tearing me apart” Why? Because we're often building our peace on shifting foundations: - our house upon the sand • Where there is guilt - there can be no peace Where there is shame - there can be no peace Where there is double-mindedness - there can be no peace “all other ground is sinking sand” ? Is our identity built upon the finished work of the cross? We must understand the crucial difference between conviction and condemnation. One leads us toward God; the other drives us away. Some people have learned to control others through guilt and shame, or maybe they have been controlled by these themselves. Guilt and shame are powerful forces. And in that environment, true peace becomes impossible. Romans 5:1,2: Our faith in Jesus transfers God’s righteousness to us and he now declares us flawless in his eyes. This means we can now enjoy true and lasting peace with God, all because of what our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, has done for us. Our faith guarantees us permanent access into this marvelous kindness that has given us a perfect relationship with God. What incredible joy bursts forth within us as we keep on celebrating our hope of experiencing God’s glory! Peace. There are many different definitions for peace – but it all goes back to Shalom. One of God’s names is Jehovah Shalom - "the Lord is peace" “Shalom” - Wholeness. A wholeness we cannot create on our own. Sometimes when my world feels like it is spinning, I will just say “Peace.” (anxious) Without Divine Peace anchoring our souls, each day becomes a struggle. Our hearts remain unfixed, unstable. We find ourselves asking: "Are we saved one day and lost the next?" This uncertainty creates a spiritual restlessness that affects every aspect of our lives. As James writes, "A double-minded person is unstable in all they do." This instability manifests in anxiety, broken relationships, and a disconnect from our true purpose. People ask: "Have you made your peace with God?" - knowing deep down that without this fundamental peace, nothing else will satisfy. But here's the good news of Advent - Romans 5:1-2 tells us: "Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us." Notice the source of this peace - it's "because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us." That sounds like Grace to me! As Ephesians 2:8 reminds us: "For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift." This peace isn't something we achieve; it's something we receive. "Our faith in Jesus transfers God's righteousness to us and He now declares us flawless in his eyes. This means we can now enjoy true and lasting peace with God, all because of what our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, has done for us." Romans 8:1-2 assures us: "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, for the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death." Only Jesus can speak to the storm in your heart and say, "Peace, be still." When we embrace this Divine Peace that comes through Christ, everything changes. We find ourselves blessed as described in Psalm 32 and quoted in Romans 4: "Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord will never count against them." This Divine Peace brings: Freedom from guilt and shame Confidence in our relationship with God Stability in life's storms A heart that is fixed, not double-minded The ability to rest in God's presence and love As 2 Peter 1:2 promises: "May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord." This peace grows as our relationship with Christ deepens. So, what should we do to establish or re-establish the divine peace that is already ours through Jesus? Here are some practical steps: **Pray consistently**: Jesus taught that we "should always pray and never give up." 1 Thessalonians 5:17 tells us to "pray without ceasing." TPT puts it this way: "Make your life a prayer." Not fancy prayers, but open-hearted honesty with God. **Practice thanksgiving**: (“in everything give thanks”) Philippians 4:6 instructs: "Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking Him with a thankful heart." The Amplified version adds: "Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your specific requests known to God." **Draw near to God**: James 4:8 promises: "Move your heart closer and closer to God, and he will come even closer to you. But make sure you cleanse your life, you sinners, and keep your heart pure and stop doubting." **Grow in faith**: Hebrews 11:6 reminds us: "Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." **Embrace your new identity**: Eph 4:24 "take on an entirely new way of life - a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you." These practices don't earn us peace; they help us experience the Divine Peace Christ has already secured for us. As we continue this Advent journey, remember that the Prince of Peace came to bring you what you cannot find elsewhere. If you are seeking refuge from the storm, if you are seeking peace today, there is only one true answer. His name is Jesus. Ephesians 2:14: "For He Himself is our peace” Our reconciling “Peace” is Jesus! ...By dying as our sacrifice, he has broken down every wall Isaiah 53:5: But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. “The punishment that He received has brought peace to us.” “ … we can now enjoy true and lasting peace with God, all because of what our Lord Jesus… has done for us.” Our answer to the storm is a new heart - a heart at peace with God through faith in Jesus Christ. Peter reminds us to continue growing in the fruit of the Spirit: "For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins." So today, let us not forget - instead, let us remember our so great a salvation - and in so doing, live in God's peace. "Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us." This Advent season, will you accept His peace? Will you allow the Prince of Peace to calm the storm in your heart? You can take that step of faith today. Luke 12:32: Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the Kingdom. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource PEACE 和平 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/07/2025 Description An account of the resource Romans 5:1,2: Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. 羅 馬 書 5:1,2: 并通过基督，使一切，不论是天上的还是地上的都与自己再和好。上帝通过基督洒在十字架上的血缔造了和平。(page 1827) Col 1:20 - …and through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross. 歌 羅 西 書 1:20: 并通过基督，使一切，不论是天上的还是地上的都与自己再和好。上帝通过基督洒在十字架上的血缔造了和平。 (page 1909) 2 Peter 1: 2: May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. 彼 得 後 書 1:2: 愿你们借了解上帝和耶稣我们的主，领受到更丰富的恩典与和平。(page 1972) Romans 8:1,2: Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, for the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 羅 馬 書 8:1,2: -所以现在，在耶稣基督之中的人们不被定罪， 因为在耶稣基督之中，带来生命的圣灵的法，已把我从那导致罪和死亡的律法中解脱出来了。(page 1831) Col 3:15 – “ …let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.” 歌罗西书 3:15 要让基督的平安掌管你们的心，你们就是为此而蒙召成为一个身体。 要常存感恩的心。(page 1911) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/4448bb697a2c85df62105c7cb62d211c.jpg c2a9b5334def4320c818714858ef166a https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/f1ca1a374c9b710ab6756ea2ae17cbf0.mp4 9e82fafb611c37814f5cb395f8ca3601 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2025 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound ADVENT WEEK 3 - JOY: The Return of Joy When the Heart Flows Again "Long before you see spring... you hear it. When winter begins to loosen its grip, the very first sign is not the melting snow or the budding trees - it's the sound. A single birdsong on a cold morning. A crack of ice along the riverbank. A quiet drip of melting snow from a rooftop. Movement. Life. Sound. These tiny sounds are not the fullness of spring - but they are the announcement that spring is coming. And the Holy Spirit whispers: "Joy is the sound of the heart thawing." Not loud excitement. Not forced happiness. But the first movement of life inside a heart that is flowing again. This is Advent Week 3 - JOY - and today we listen for the sound of signs of an early spring in the soul. Psalm 16:11 tells us, "You make known to me the path of life; in Your Presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore." And James 1:2-3 reminds us that joy can emerge even in trials: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." We've previously talked about the danger of a hardened heart. A heart that freezes... cannot feel joy. Even if joy is present - it cannot be sensed. Many of us live in this winter season of the soul. Our hearts grow cold through disappointment, through busyness, through the weight of our burdens. Some of you may feel this today - a numbness where joy once flowed freely. Romans 1:21 describes this condition: For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. When we stop glorifying God, when we stop being thankful, when our imagination drifts away from the truth... the heart grows dim. “survival mode” Psalm 51:8 speaks to this when David prays, "Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have broken rejoice." David understood that sometimes our joy is broken, crushed under the weight of sin or sorrow. This is the spiritual winter we may find ourselves in - not because God has withdrawn His joy, but because our hearts have lost their capacity to feel it. And in this frozen state, we often make a critical mistake - we try to manufacture joy through our own efforts, through positivity, through circumstances. We strive and strain to create what can only be received. Prayer of St Francis – Make me an instrument of Thy JOY A joyless Christianity is a contradiction. It becomes heavy religion rather than vibrant relationship. Without joy, our witness grows dim. Without joy, our strength diminishes. Without joy, our hearts grow weary. Nehemiah 8:10 reminds us that "the joy of the Lord is your strength." When joy departs, our spiritual strength goes with it. Many believers live in this weakened state - faithful in practice but missing the vitality that should characterize those who know the living God. Isaiah 35:10 paints a picture of what we're missing: "Those the Lord has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away." And even the world will notice when we lack joy. They see our duty but not our delight. They hear our words but don't witness our wonder. A frozen heart cannot flow with the living water Jesus promised in John 7:38: "Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water." Philippians 4:4 calls us to "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" This is not a suggestion - but a command - because joy is essential to our spiritual health and witness. Weeks ago we began this series with the truth that transformation does not come by trying - but by beholding. Because whatever we behold... we become. …we magnify. David understood this when he wrote: "In Your presence is fullness of joy." Joy is not something we create - it is what rises when our eyes are lifted from ourselves and fixed again on Jesus. Hebrews 12:2 instructs us to fix "our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." This is why the angel's announcement at the birth of Christ began with: "I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people." (Luke 2:10) Where Jesus enters... joy begins to flow. Jesus came with a promise: "He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted." (Luke 4:18) A healed heart becomes a feeling heart. A tender heart. A responsive heart. And when the heart softens - joy returns. Romans 15:13 offers this powerful promise: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Not because circumstances improved. Not because life became easy. But because the heart thawed. Isaiah 52:9 says, "Break forth into JOY." Joy is the warmth that comes when the ice breaks. Joy is evidence that Jesus has touched a deep place within you. Where there is flow, there is joy. Joy is not the result of human positivity. Joy is the overflow of divine life moving freely within us. 1 Peter 1:8-9 describes this supernatural joy: "Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls." Psalm 126:5-6 promises, "Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them." Joy is not the goal - it is the symptom of a heart where Jesus is flowing again. Some of you may have rediscovered this in recent weeks. The moment you stopped striving and started beholding... Peace came. Clarity came. …And Joy began to return Joy is the echo of a heart looking at Jesus. Andrew Wommack teaches that joy is not something we pursue - it is something we maintain by staying aware of God. (beholding) Psalm 51:12 becomes our prayer: "Restore unto me the JOY of Thy salvation." When we restore awareness - by glorifying Him... by thanking Him... by beholding Him... the heart brightens. And joy returns. Habakkuk 3:17-18 shows us how to implement this even in difficult circumstances: "… yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior." Advent joy is not loud. It is not emotional hype. It is the quiet confidence that: "Christ is with me. Christ is in me. Christ is moving within me." Psalm 30:5 promises: "For His anger lasts only a short time. But His favor is for life. Crying may last for a night, but joy comes with the new day." This is the joy that carried Mary. This is the joy that sustained Joseph. This is the joy that made unborn Baby John leap. This is the joy that filled the shepherds. This is the joy that Simeon felt when he held the child. The joy of "God is here." Emmanuel (will YOU choose to BELIEVE Today?) Maybe joy has felt distant for a while. Maybe winter has lingered too long in your soul. Maybe your heart has been frozen, or numb, or just plain tired. But today... listen. There is a sound. A small movement. A flicker. A whisper. The sound of spring. The sound of joy returning. Not because everything is perfect - but because Christ is present. John 15:11 captures Jesus' promise: "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete." And Isaiah 61:3 reminds us that God gives us "the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair." And when Christ comes, winter loses its hold, the river begins to move, and joy rises naturally. The tests and challenges of this current season may have you feeling weak... …but the joy of the Lord can once again be your strength. **Prayer** "Lord Jesus, restore the flow of joy in my heart. Let every frozen place thaw in Your presence. Let every silent place begin to sing again. Open my eyes to behold You. Open my heart to feel You. Open my spirit to flow with You. Fill me with the deep, steady, unshakeable joy that comes only from Your life within me. Amen." Because of you, I know the path of life, as I taste the fullness of joy in your presence. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Return of JOY 《喜乐的归回》 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/14/2025 Description An account of the resource Psalm 16:11: You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. 詩 篇 16:11: 你 必 将 生 命 的 道 路 指 示 我 。 在 你 面 前 有 满 足 的 喜 乐 ； 在 你 右 手 中 有 永 远 的 福 乐 。 (page 892) Romans 15:13: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. 羅 馬 書 15:13: 但 愿 使 人 有 盼 望 的 神 ， 因 信 将 诸 般 的 喜 乐 、 平 安 充 满 你 们 的 心 ， 使 你 们 藉 着 圣 灵 的 能 力 大 有 盼 望 。(page 1843) Nehemiah 8:10: …for the joy of the Lord is your strength. 尼 希 米 記 8:10: ...因 靠 耶 和 华 而 得 的 喜 乐 是 你 们 的 力 量 。 (page 802) John 15:11: I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 約 翰 福 音 15:11: 这 些 事 我 已 经 对 你 们 说 了 ， 是 要 叫 我 的 喜 乐 存 在 你 们 心 里 ， 并 叫 你 们 的 喜 乐 可 以 满 足 。 (page 1749) Isaiah 61:3: To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the LORD has planted for his own glory. 以赛亚书 61:3: 以华冠取代锡安哀伤者头上的灰尘，以喜乐的膏油取代他们的哀伤，以颂赞的外袍取代他们的沮丧。他们将被称为耶和华所栽种的公义橡树，以彰显祂的荣耀。 (page 1213) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Pastor: Mike Koger Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Hillside United Methodist Church 3737 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States