5 10 83 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/ec8143f89df132d99bdc0639c04289ec.jpg 988cb79d099d6fa5753f838b54ea2b85 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/5993e6af532f642a19b0f7bdff29b437.mp4 24ea9fe56df96243ee20f3d4bcad9550 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 Choice Three: Consciously Commit Matthew 11:28-30 Psalm 55:6: “Oh, that I had wings like a dove; then I would fly away and rest!” Can you relate? Everyone feels the need to escape sometimes. That’s why we take vacations and retreats. It’s not a denial – it’s a way to refresh and restore. …but what if we consistently ignore our problems and difficulties? Do they go away on their own? That’s how some of us try to live our lives. We try so hard to keep up a good front – pretending that everything is okay – when in reality we’re struggling with real pain and real issues that we desperately try to ignore. Then we get stuck. We get stuck trying to keep it all together while our world is falling apart. We get stuck, and we cannot get un-stuck in our own power – so despair sets in. First week: “I am powerless to control my own tendency to do the wrong thing – and my life is unmanageable.” Last week: “Earnestly believe that God exists and that I matter to Him, and that He has the power to help me recover.” Jesus taught: “You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule.” We had to first recognize our emptiness without God – and how without leaning on God, our lives can become unmanageable. “When He (Jesus) saw the crowds, He had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” God loves us and wants to lead us out of our pain and into His healing. ( ) Choice 2 is made up of three magnificent truths about GOD: 1. He exists 2. I matter to Him 3. He has the power to help me Jesus said: “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” …from the Beatitudes of Matthew 5:5 means that people who exhibit controlled strength, patience, and a humble submission to God's will will ultimately be blessed and possess the kingdom of God on earth. It takes humility to sincerely reach out for help. Today’s Choice: “Consciously choose to commit your life and will to Christ’s care and control.” We can get stuck trying to keep it all together while our world is falling apart. We get stuck, and we cannot get un-stuck in our own power – so despair sets in. de·spair : the complete loss or absence of hope. Our unwanted behavior leads us to guilt. We wish we could get out of our mess (on our own,) but we can’t. We may eventually get angry – “I should be able to change. I ought to be able to get out of this.. I know the harm it’s causing.” Our anger turns into a fear that things are never going to change. We slowly begin to realize our hurts, hang-ups and habits are controlling us, and our fear eventually turns into depression. We start feeling sorry for ourselves and we become filled with even more guilt. Finally we give up and we say, “I can’t change. I quit!” – and the cycle of despair starts all over again. Guilt – Anger – Fear – Depression So – how do we break this cycle of despair? We’ve already worked through admitting our need for help – and our unmanageable life. We called that The Reality Choice. We’ve also taken The Hope Choice believing that we matter to God and that He has the power (and the desire) to help us. NOW we’re ready for The Commitment Choice when we make the decision to walk across the line. We take a step across the line of decision – a step toward GOD that says we’re willing to give it all to Him and to take a step away from the old way of doing it all ourselves. It’s a time for letting go – - a time to consciously commit all your life and will to Christ’s care and control. “It’s easy to blame others for our struggles, but real growth begins when we acknowledge our own responsibility. Many of the battles we face are not caused by enemies outside but by choices within. When we confess honestly before God, He doesn’t condemn us—He cleanses us. Taking ownership opens the door to freedom, peace, and transformation” Understand this… Through the Old Testament Law you could never break free… history shows us that. WE live in a New Testament “dispensation of GRACE” (Eph 3:2) Romans 6:14: You are not governed by law but governed by the reign of the grace of God. Acts 20: 32,33: And so now, I entrust you into God’s hands and the message of his grace, which is all that you need to become strong. All of God’s blessings are imparted through the message of his grace, which he provides as the spiritual inheritance given to all of his holy ones. Maybe for you that means itn will be your first time to actually give your heart to Jesus Christ – to turn from your old way of doing things and choose to live for Him. To truly accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.” Jesus says, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” For some of us, maybe this choice will mean a renewed commitment to let go of your life and give it over to Christ’s care and control. So, what’s holding you back from making this choice? What is delaying your decision to surrender your problems and life to the care and control of Christ? “Choices determine circumstances and our decisions determine our destiny.” Today’s Choice: “Consciously choose to commit your life and will to Christ’s care and control.” 12 Steps: “Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God” There are five things that keep us from making this third choice: Pride – Guilt – Fear – Worry – Doubt Pride: “Pride first, then the crash, but humility is precursor to honor.” “The wise are glad to be instructed, but babbling fools fall flat on their faces.” ? How low do you go before your pride is consumed in disaster? Jesus said: “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” Guilt: Maybe you’ve tried to escape your problems before, and you promised God that if He’d help you this one time you’d never do it again – and then you “backslid?” ( ) God knows everything about you – including your short-comings. He wants to forgive all your of your guilt. That’s why Jesus went to the cross! Fear: Sometimes we’re afraid to simply “trust God.” Sometimes we’re afraid of losing control. Your habits may be such a part of your life – your identity – that letting it all go and letting God take over seems like a scary thing indeed. Isaiah 44:22: I have removed the guilt of your sins, like the wind blows away a cloud. When you turned against me, I have quickly forgiven you. Return to me now, because I have rescued you. So, what are you afraid of? What are now holding on to that makes you think, “I can’t let go?” Is it a relationship, an ambition, a habit, a lifestyle or a possession? Jesus: ”And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” Maybe you could just start by praying, “God, I don’t even know what I don’t want to give up. I just know I don’t want to live this way anymore, and I know I want my life to be under Your control. God – here’s a blank check – here’s my life.” All you have to do is trust Him. He will take care of the rest. “Only Trust Him” Worry: Worry causes us to confuse the decision-making phase with the problem-solving phase. Just make the decision – let God worry about the problem solving. Doubt: Have you ever thought, “I want to believe, but my faith is too small?” Mark 9:24: "Lord, I do believe, but help me overcome my un-belief!" (he was sincerely trying) Mark 5:36: Jesus told Jairus, "Don't be afraid. Just have faith…” It’s not the size of your faith that matters; it’s the Who or what you put your faith in that matters. Your decision must be, “I open my life to the care and control of Christ. I don’t know how it’s all going to be worked out, but I know it’s the right thing to do. So I’m just going to do it.” Are you worried that in this battle of life you won’t be able to hold on? Don’t worry – it’s not your job to hold on. GOD will do the holding – and He won’t ever let go. Eph 1:13, 14: And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession--to the praise of his glory. So make the decision today – The Commitment Choice - and dare to step over the line 1. Accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior 2. Accept God’s Word as your standard 3. Accept God’s Will for your life as your new purpose for living 4. Accept God’s Power as your strength Jesus stands at the door of your heart today and knocks. Will you let Him in? You’ve fought hard – you never gave up NOW it’s time to give up – to surrender Jesus says, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Lord, I humble myself before You and admit that many of my struggles are the result of my own choices. Forgive me where I’ve fallen short and cleanse me from unrighteousness. Teach me to walk in humility, accountability, and wisdom so that I can grow in Your grace. Help me to take responsibility and live in Your truth, in Jesus’ name, amen. Romans 6:17,18: And thanks be to God, for in the past you were servants of sin, but now your obedience is heart deep, and your life is being molded by truth through the teaching you are devoted to. And now you celebrate your freedom from your former master—sin. You’ve left its bondage, and now God’s perfect righteousness holds power over you as his loving servants. 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 Consciously Commit 有意识地交托 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/14/2025 Description An account of the resource Matthew 11:28-30: Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light. 马太福音 11:28-30: 所有劳苦困乏、背负重担的人啊，到我这里来吧！我要赐给你们安息。 我心柔和谦卑，你们要负我的轭，向我学习，这样你们的心灵必得享安息。 因为我的轭容易负，我的担子很轻省。 (page 1577) Romans 6:17,18: And thanks be to God, for in the past you were servants of sin, but now your obedience is heart deep, and your life is being molded by truth through the teaching you are devoted to. And now you celebrate your freedom from your former master—sin. You’ve left its bondage, and now God’s perfect righteousness holds power over you as his loving servants. 羅 馬 書 6:17,18: 过去，你们是罪的奴仆，罪恶控制你们，但是感谢上帝，你们一心一意地听从了传给你们的教导。 你们已从罪恶中被解放出来，现在你们是正义的奴仆。 (page 1829) Romans 6:14: You are not governed by law but governed by the reign of the grace of God. 羅 馬 書 6:14: 因为你们生活在上帝的恩典里，而不是生活在律法之下，所以，罪将不会成为你们的主宰。 (page 1829) Ephesians 1:13-14: And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession—to the praise of his glory. 以弗所书 1:13,14: 你们既听见真理的道，就是那叫你们得救的福音，也信了基督，既然信他，就受了所应许的圣灵为印记。 这圣灵是我们得基业的凭据[b]，直等到神之民[c]被赎，使他的荣耀得着称赞。 (page 1894) 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/e841d03111033cd09483ecd082190420.jpg aaa1587ec30d90cebc03687ab3be13fd https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/765922e5b21b3185d412449e6dc53e9b.mp4 179317969371d2ff8fd62a66798470c9 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 Death = LIFE John 12:24 Have you seen that funny meme going around? "The calendar says 'Tuesday' but it still feels like Monday." Tuesday mornings can sometimes be harder than Monday mornings. Waking up around 4am, not feeling particularly enthused about the new day ahead. I found myself thinking, "I need a new attitude. I need a fresh perspective." But where does that perspective come from? HOW can we hear from GOD unless we take time to be quiet before Him? To "Be Still and Know that HE is GOD"? In those quiet moments, God whispers to our hearts: "This is a new beginning. You didn't expect it today, but here it is." A few weeks ago, I shared something I firmly believe: "We were made for expansion and fuller expression. God wants to take you beyond your current limitations into places of greater impact for His kingdom." I truly believe our DNA comes complete with a desire for expansion and greater expression. As the saying goes, "The first step toward getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are." Remember when we talked about the power of decision? (definition) But here's the truth—it can be hard to say "Goodbye." Growth often has a component of grief to it. What may feel like a "loss" may really a transformation. What may feel like "death" can really be a "rebirth." For your new life to truly begin, the old life must end. In Romans 6:11, we're instructed to "reckon the old man as dead." This isn't just poetic language. The term "reckon" is an accounting term meaning to consider, account for, or take inventory. It implies a deliberate act of faith— …aligning our beliefs and actions with the truth of our spiritual death to sin and new life in Christ. Jesus expressed this profound truth in John 12:24-25. In The Message translation, it reads: "Listen carefully: Unless a grain of wheat is buried in the ground, dead to the world, it is never any more than a grain of wheat. But if it is buried, it sprouts and reproduces itself many times over. In the same way, anyone who holds on to life just as it is destroys that life. But if you let it go, reckless in your love, you'll have it forever, real and eternal." Death equals Life. This is the divine paradox at the heart of our faith. “funeral for a friend” You basically need to have a funeral for your old self. That "friend" you're burying may be comfort. It could be called "security." It might be familiar patterns that no longer serve God's purpose for your life. Romans 6:7-8 reminds us: "For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him." Romans 6:11: "So you also should think about yourselves in the same way. Sin has no power over you, as if you were dead. In your new life, you live to serve God, because you belong to Christ Jesus." A seed will just remain a seed unless it is planted. After it is planted, there is a complete transformation. Jesus said it clearly: "Verily, verily I say unto you, unless a grain of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone; but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit." Eph 3:19 offers this beautiful prayer: "May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God." Or as another translation puts it: "May you be filled through all your being with God himself!" To be filled with one thing requires being emptied of another. Does that make sense? Watchman Nee wrote in The Normal Christian Life: "God never intended for man to live by himself. Man was created with a spirit capable of containing God and depending on God. And until God is everything to man, man will never be what God intended him to be." Think about the tabernacle in the Old Testament. It was a physical structure designed for the Presence of God to dwell among his people. But now, under the New covenant, we do not have a tabernacle made of wood and fabric. We are the tabernacle. As Paul says in 1 Cor 3:16, "Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you?" This is the revolutionary truth that changes everything. As Nee puts it: "You are not a seeker of God. You are a bearer of God. You are not trying to reach the divine presence. You are manifesting the divine presence. You are not searching for life. You are expressing the life that is already within you." Jesus himself said in Luke 17:21: "the Kingdom of God is within you." Faith is not feeling. Faith is accepting what God has said. ( ) ...and God said that “Christ lives in you.” That you are "Complete in Him." That you have received His fullness. Accepting this by faith is to make the transition from seeking to knowing. Romans 6:11 instructs us: "So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus." Remember that ad from that sweatshop shoe company: “Just Do It” Last week, we discussed that your decision must be: "I open my life to the care and control of Christ. I don't know how it's all going to be worked out, but I know it's the right thing to do. So I'm just going to do it." Hebrews 11:8 reminds us: "By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going." Jesus told his disciples in John 16:7: "I assure you that it is a good thing for you that I should go away. For if I did not go, the divine helper would not come to you. But if I go, then I will send him to you." The disciples didn't want Jesus to leave—can you imagine how that felt? —even though He told them it was necessary so that the next part of the church could really begin. Charlie Kirk: "Jesus died so we can live." And Jesus himself told us: "I tell you this: A seed of wheat continues to be only a single seed unless it falls into the ground. It must fall into the ground and then it must die. If it dies like that, it will grow to give a lot of seeds." Gal 2:20 captures this beautiful exchange: "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." Death = Life Make room in your life for the arrival of new life. Ask yourself: “What must I die to in order to obtain the abundant, purposeful life God has prepared for me?” If comfort is your aim, then change will always be just beyond your reach. vs 25: “ …the one who detaches his life from this world and abandons himself to me, will find true life and enjoy it forever!” Jesus: “Let me make this clear: A single grain of wheat will never be more than a single grain of wheat unless it drops into the ground and dies. Because then it sprouts and produces a great harvest of wheat—all because one grain died.” We must "reckon the old man as dead." You already know what that old man looks like— …but do you have a revelation of what the new man (who you are in Christ) should look like? 1 Tim 6:12 tells us to “fight the good fight of faith” Run hard and fast in the faith. Seize the eternal life, the life you were called to, the life you so fervently embraced in the presence of so many witnesses. (just yesterday) “it’s better to die on your feet than to live on your knees.” We were talking at work the other day about how fast college football season goes. With less than four months left in 2025, what can we do to ensure this season of your life becomes the very best part of the year? Proverbs 3:6 guides us: "In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." ? Do you ever feel overwhelmed by all the things you need to do? Find in your heart one single step of faith that you know you need to take in your life. Focus on that one thing — not the whole world. One baby step is worth much more than just “thinking” about a dozen things we could/should be doing. Give it (now) to God without fear or hesitation. Jesus said: A single grain of wheat will never be more than a single grain of wheat unless it drops into the ground and dies. Because then it sprouts and produces a great harvest of wheat—all because one grain died. fear has no rightful place in your future you As Spurgeon wisely noted: "The fear of God is the death of every other fear," - and "He who fears God has nothing else to fear." Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, all fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future, and life is worth the living just because He lives! 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 DEATH = LIFE 死亡=生命 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/21/2025 Description An account of the resource John 12:24 – “Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” 約 翰 福 音 12:24: 我实话告诉你们，如果一颗麦粒没有落在地里死去，它依然是一粒种子，但是，一旦它死了，它就会结出许多麦粒 (page 1744) Romans 6:11: So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. 羅 馬 書 6:11: 同样，你们应该明白自己已死于罪的势力，并且通过耶稣基督为上帝而活着。 (page 1829) Gal 2:20: My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 加拉太书 2:20: 我已经与基督一同被钉在十字架上，现在活着的不再是我，而是基督活在我里面。我现在是靠信上帝的儿子而活着，祂爱我，为我舍命。(page 1887) 1 Cor 3:16 - Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 哥林多前书 3:16: 岂不知你们就是上帝的殿，上帝的灵住在你们里面吗？ (pg 1850) 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) 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 3739 US 80 Phenix City AL 36870 United States https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/b1ff37958ddbc1aaa79d7561aaede566.jpg 062c29b448279d827985d1a930c8b906 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/c83bf49fecbe28ce6fbbc7f407a958d1.mp4 b5d2cf71302bf3eda9e69a607e1126c1 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 Faith To Change: Romans 8:6-10 We are all witnessing the beginnings of a Global Awakening. A Global Revival Revival comes as a result of an awakening - and that awakening comes through the revelation of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. As 1 Corinthians 15:34 reminds us: "Awake to righteousness, and sin not." What we're witnessing today may well be the birth of a revival that could radically redirect the future of our country. (maybe the world?) Consider Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, whose preaching during them 20th century was so honest and forceful that the secular media in Wales made this remarkable statement: "The preaching of Dr. Jones probably saved Wales from becoming the first communist country in Europe." His message was clear and powerful about the nature of faith. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones put it this way: "The man who has faith is the man who is no longer looking at himself and no longer looking to himself. He no longer looks at anything he once was. He does not look at what he is now. He does not even look at what he hopes to be as the result of his own efforts. He looks entirely to the Lord Jesus Christ and His finished work, and rests on that alone." He continues, "He has ceased to say, 'Ah yes, I used to commit terrible sins but I have done this and that.' He stops saying that. If he goes on saying that, he has not got faith. Faith speaks in an entirely different manner and makes a man say, 'Yes I have sinned grievously, I have lived a life of sin, yet I know that I am a child of God because I am not resting on any righteousness of my own; my righteousness is in Jesus Christ and God has put that to my account.'" There are people you can always trust to do what they say they will – and some people… not so much. When someone you consider trustworthy tells you they will do something, you believe them. You count on them to do what they promised. You accept it as fact. This is a form of faith. Last week: "Faith is not feeling. Faith is accepting what God has said." Galatians 3:11 declares, "And that no man is justified by the Law in the sight of God, it is evident: for the just shall live by faith." Are you choosing to live by faith? If you are trusting God to guide you, He is doing exactly that. We only see "through the glass darkly" now - but we must walk by faith, not by sight. "Where we're going, we don't need roads." I would add: Where we're going in our spiritual journey, we must have faith. Romans 5:17 proclaims: "It is true that through the sin of one man death began to rule because of that one man. But how much greater is the result of what was done by the one man, Jesus Christ! All who receive God's abundant grace and are freely put right with him will rule in life through Christ." Jesus himself said in Matthew 9:29, "According to your faith, be it unto you" and "Truly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt..." In times of revival, people are often delivered from their past struggles and weaknesses. Set free. A fresh start, by the Power of GOD. I ask you today: - Do you believe God can provide a better life for you? Do you believe God can deliver you from your struggles - your addictions - your fears? Your past mistakes? Psalm 34:4 assures us: "I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears." ? What if you realized there is a better you waiting for you on the other side of your struggle? We’re not talking about “starting over.” Not “starting from scratch.” We’re talking about starting afresh with wisdom and power. God has a "nevertheless" to speak into your life today. "Nevertheless" is a formal adverb that means "in spite of that," "however," "even so," or "still". It is used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or opposes what was just said, highlighting an unexpected turn of events or a different perspective despite a previous point. Romans 8 tells us: "Nevertheless once the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead lives within you he will, by that same Spirit, bring to your whole being new strength and vitality." Will you receive that promise today by faith? (amen) Despite our own failures, there is a "But God" ready to work in our lives to transform and sanctify us. By Faith. A “nevertheless” Mark 9:23 reminds us: "Jesus said to him, 'If you can'? Everything is possible for the one who believes." Change comes by faith - faith that it is possible to change through the victory won by Jesus for us. Grace to Change. Faith to Change. If the Christ lives within you, even though the body is as good as dead because of the effects of sin, the Spirit is infusing you with life now that you are right with God. It takes faith to work out and walk out this Christian life, to continue in His Word and keep our hand on the plow... …because everything does not happen at once. When you are believing for something that hasn't happened just yet - when you are trusting in the word of another that something will take place, that is faith. “Faith means accepting what God has said.” Hebrews 11:1 defines it perfectly: "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." Externally - who we are now is not who we will be. We are in the process of becoming. But who we are internally - spiritually - as Believers - is already a real thing. John 1:12 tells us Jesus "gave the right to become God's children to everyone who believed in him." The born-again believer has received (by faith) "the abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness." Ephesians 2:8 declares: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God." You are saved, made righteous by leaving your old life (repenting) and accepting new life through Christ - the gift of righteousness. Made righteous! By faith you have to accept that is who you are now. Ephesians 2 in the Phillips translation puts it beautifully: "It was nothing you could or did achieve - it was God's gift to you. No one can pride himself upon earning the love of God. The fact is that what we are (present-tense) we owe to the hand of God upon us. We are born afresh in Christ, and born to do those good deeds which God planned for us to do." By faith you have to accept that is who you are now. The carnal mind cannot accept this grace-through-faith salvation. It always gravitates back to works. Early Christian church in conflict… trying to receive the new, even while clinging to them old Galatians 6:12 warns: "Those who are trying to force you to be circumcised want to look good to others. They don't want to be persecuted for teaching that the cross of Christ alone can save." ? Why is it so important that we believe and accept being made righteous through faith as a present-day fact? To live by faith and please God you have to believe you have already been made right with God - so that you can go beyond your own existing limitations and start doing the good works God prepared for you to do. Otherwise, you'll never get beyond yourself. You’ll keep trying to “qualify yourself” You'll still think YOU are the Vine, and because of that misunderstanding, you may believe nothing good can ever come from you. Just attempts. Trying. Struggling. What if you realized (by faith) there is a better you on the other side of your struggle? This faith we are talking about pleases God and strengthens our Divine Connection (MSG) Romans 8 puts it this way: "Those who think they can do it on their own end up obsessed with measuring their own moral muscle but never get around to exercising it in real life. Those who trust God's action in them find that God's Spirit is in them - living and breathing God! Obsession with self in these matters is a dead end; attention to God leads us out into the open, into a spacious, free life. Focusing on the self is the opposite of focusing on God. Anyone completely absorbed in self ignores God, ends up thinking more about self than God. That person ignores who God is and what he is doing.” "...the mind-set controlled by the Spirit finds life and peace." (Romans 8:6) The Gospel message is not only meant to lead us to Christ - but it is crucial toward keeping the Believer rooted, grounded and moving forward in their faith. Romans 8:10 assures us: "if Christ is in you, then the Spirit gives you life, because Christ made you right with God." Romans 5:17 declares: "But even greater is God's wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ." Declare it: “I am the Righteousness of God in Christ Jesus, because that is who God says I am.” Remember this truth: If you can work it out on your own, it doesn't require faith. • We have been reminded again today: Without faith it is impossible to please God. The justified will live by faith. Following after the Holy Spirit leads to life and peace. 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 Faith To Change 让我们改变的信仰 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/28/2025 Description An account of the resource Rom 8:6-8 - So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God. 罗马书 8:6-8- 体 贴 肉 体 的 ， 就 是 死 ； 体 贴 圣 灵 的 ， 乃 是 生 命 、 平 安 。原 来 体 贴 肉 体 的 ， 就 是 与 神 为 仇 ； 因 为 不 服 神 的 律 法 ， 也 是 不 能 服 ，而 且 属 肉 体 的 人 不 能 得 神 的 喜 欢 。(pg 1832) Gal 3:11 - And that no man is justified by the Law in the sight of God, it is evident: for the just shall live by faith. 加 拉 太 書 3:11-现在很清楚，没有人通过律法而得到上帝的认可。正如《经》上所说∶“义人 因信仰而得生。” (page 1888) Mark 9:23 - Jesus said to him, “‘If you can’? Everything is possible for the one who believes.” 馬 可 福 音 9:23: 耶稣对他说∶“你刚才说‘如果您能，就请帮帮他吧’，对相信的人，一切事情都能办得到。” (page 1635) Heb 11:1: Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 希 伯 來 書 11:1: 信仰意味着确信我们所期待的事情，肯定我们所看不见的事情 (page 1952) Eph 2:8: For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God 以 弗 所 書 2: 8,9: 你们通过信仰得到拯救乃是上帝的恩典，这不出自你们自己，而是上帝的恩赐， 而不是因为你们做了什么，所以，也就没有人能够夸口。(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/18b293d7c51e77cea7aad88fe5920fba.jpg ebfc5098e1f6620e7e5e6a12391f6fa8 https://church.jhkpress.com/files/original/8329229bb47680d28958be186b8e1295.mp4 e23cd0834fad1bc1f6614bd03ce07252 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 Clean the House Matthew 23:25-27 Driving to work Thursday morning, God spoke to me and redirected my steps. I am so thankful. Psalm 119:130 tells us: "Break open your Word within me until revelation-light shines out! Those with open hearts are given insight into your plans." This verse describes a fervent desire for understanding and divine enlightenment, where a person's heart opens to receive insight into God's will and purpose. What is in your heart today? How can God speak to a heart that is filled with the world? Goethe: "A man sees in the world what he carries in his heart." Psalm 119:11 reminds us: "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." A friend of mine once put diesel fuel in their gasoline car. Just as the wrong fuel ruins an engine, filling our hearts with the wrong things corrupts our spiritual lives. Ephesians 5:18 instructs us: "Don't be drunk with wine, which will ruin your life, but be filled with the Spirit." When we bought our house nearly 25 years ago, it came with a "self-cleaning oven." Not ONCE in almost 25 years have I woken up to find the oven had cleaned itself. Christian, do not fall into the trap of seeking to clean yourself up. You were never called to become a "self-made person." As the saying goes, "He was a self-made man who worshipped his creator." The Pharisees were notorious for knowing how to look good outwardly while still concealing their dark hearts. Matthew 23:25-26: "Great sorrow awaits you religious scholars and Pharisees—frauds and imposters! You are like one who will only wipe clean the outside of a cup or bowl, leaving the inside filthy. You are foolish to ignore the greed and self-indulgence that live like germs within you. You are blind to your evil. Shouldn't the one who cleans the outside also be concerned with cleaning the inside? You need to have more than clean dishes; you need clean hearts!" Matthew 23:27: "What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs—beautiful on the outside but filled on the inside with dead people's bones and all sorts of impurity." "Whited sepulchers" (or "whitewashed tombs") is a Biblical phrase used by Jesus to describe hypocrites—people who appear outwardly righteous but are inwardly corrupt, just as a whitewashed tomb may look beautiful but actually contains dead bodies and filth. Jesus uses this practice to highlight the hypocrisy of some religious leaders who presented a clean, beautiful exterior while harboring inner corruption and spiritual death. What is in your heart today? "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled." Romans 1:21 warns: "...but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened." Give Jesus your heart—and let Him do the inner work that is needed. I cleaned up my computer Monday morning. It was really slow to reload. Eventually all the files and images started reoccupying their previous space in my PC. It was almost like it was before I cleaned it up. In Matthew 12:43-45, Jesus describes a scenario where an evil spirit, cast out of a person, finds no other place to live and returns to the person's "house" (their heart or body). Finding the house "empty, swept, and put in order"—meaning the person has rid themselves of outward sins but without filling the spiritual void with God's presence—the spirit brings seven other, more wicked spirits, resulting in the person's final condition being worse than the first. Jesus taught: "When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest, and finds none. Then he says, 'I will return to my house from which I came.' And when he comes, he finds it empty, swept, and put in order." Notice, Jesus said the unclean spirit said, "I will return to my house." Whose house are YOU? 1 Cor 3:16: "Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you?" For the past few weeks, we've been focused on finding the help and the power to move beyond our previous limitations so we can get on with our true assignments in life—our spiritual destinies. After the house has been cleaned, what will you refill it with? If you just go straight back home to the same music, the same friends, the same TV shows, the same books, the same distractions... Get it? Proverbs 4:14-15: "Do not detour into darkness or even set foot on that path. Stay away from it; don't even go there!" Non-Christian, you may think going to church more will help. You may think that being nicer will help. You may try to will yourself off of addictions, but you must come to discover that what you need is a clean heart, and only Christ can cleanse your heart. Come to Him in faith and repentance. Psalm 119:104: "Your commandments give me understanding; no wonder I hate every false way of life." Be "being filled"... (Eph 5:18) - The continual influence of the Spirit of God. John 17:17: "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." It is a battle at times... but remember, it is fought in the Spirit—not in the flesh. We all struggle... even though sometimes maybe you feel you may be struggling harder than other people are? 1 Cor 10:13: "The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure." Luke 10:19: "Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you." The authority of the kingdom is not theory—it is reality. Jesus gave us power over every work of the enemy, and when we walk in that authority, darkness must bow. The evidence of God's kingdom is not only in what we say, but in what is broken, healed, and delivered through His Spirit working in us. His power brings heaven's reality to earth. We must understand that what God wants to do in our lives is way more than just some “self-help” program. True transformation is much more. With God’s mighty power at work within us, we are becoming the people who can sustain the actions that lead to unlocking a new level of freedom and power * …which will require true internal change Galatians 5:16: "Let me emphasize this: As you yield to the dynamic life and power of the Holy Spirit, you will abandon the cravings of your self-life." Galatians 5 is all about "Freedom in Christ." Galatians 5:16-18: "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law." So, let's let Jesus clean our cache—our hearts—let’s give it all up to God—and then let the Holy Spirit fill up the vanct spaces in us. He can do in a moment what we cannot achieve in a lifetime of human effort. Matthew 8:3: "Then Jesus put His hand on him and said, 'I will. You are healed!' At once the man was healed." ...and (as the scripture says) “be being filled.” Confess your sins to God. He is "faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). Seek to work harder, not in your own power, but in "all God's energy that He powerfully works within you" (Colossians 1:29). Trust God. Colossians 1:29: "That is why I work very hard. Christ works powerfully in me to make me strong for this difficult work." Lord Jesus, thank You for giving me authority over the enemy. Teach me to walk boldly in the power of Your Spirit. Let every scheme of darkness be broken in my life and family. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done through me. 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 Housecleaning 大扫除 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 10/05/2025 Description An account of the resource Psalm 119:130: Break open your Word within me until revelation-light shines out! Those with open hearts are given insight into your plans. 诗篇 119:130: 你的言语一解开，就发出亮光，使愚人通达。 (page 1010) Matthew 23:25-26: "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean." 马太福音 23:25-27: 你们这假冒为善的文士和法利赛人有祸了！因为你们洗净杯盘的外面，里面却盛满了勒索和放荡。 你这瞎眼的法利赛人，先洗净杯盘的里面，好叫外面也干净了。你们这假冒为善的文士和法利赛人有祸了！因为你们好像粉饰的坟墓，外面好看，里面却装满了死人的骨头和一切的污秽。(page 1602) Matthew 12:43-45: "When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, 'I will return to the house I left.' When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first." 马太福音 12:43-45: "污鬼离了人身，就在无水之地过来过去，寻求安歇之处，却寻不着。 于是说：‘我要回到我所出来的屋里去。’到了，就看见里面空闲，打扫干净，修饰好了， 便去另带了七个比自己更恶的鬼来，都进去住在那里。那人末后的景况比先前更不好了。这邪恶的世代也要如此。” (page 1579) Galatians 5:16: "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." 加拉太书 5:16: 我说，你们当顺着圣灵而行，就不放纵肉体的情欲了。(page 1892) 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/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