Arise and Abide

In this episode of "Arise + Abide," Curtis and Sally dive into 2 Kings 2:19-25, exploring Elisha's first miracles following the profound transition of prophetic leadership from Elijah to Elisha. They discuss the significance of Elisha purifying the waters of Jericho and the consequences faced by those who mocked him. Through this narrative, Curtis and Sally reflect on God's presence, power, and protection over Elisha, as well as the broader implications for believers. They draw parallels to Jesus' teachings on persecution and the promise of new life, emphasizing the cost and rewards of following Christ. Tune in for an insightful discussion on faith, discipleship, and the Spirit of God at work in our lives.

In this episode of Arise + Abide, Sally and Curtis delve into Psalms 99, reflecting on the Lord as the mighty king and lover of justice. The episode begins with a heartfelt reading of the Psalm, highlighting the majesty and holiness of God. Sally and Curtis discuss the profound imagery of the Lord's reign, emphasizing His unparalleled justice and righteousness compared to earthly kings.

Sally explores the theme of God’s exaltation and our call to humble ourselves before Him, noting the promise of a time when justice and righteousness will prevail under God's rule. Curtis adds depth to the discussion by contemplating the significance of the earth quaking at God's presence, urging listeners to embrace the holy fear that leads to spiritual reflection and growth.

They share insights on the examples of Moses, Aaron, and Samuel, who cried out to God and were answered, illustrating God’s readiness to guide, correct, and forgive His people. Curtis ties this to the cost of discipleship, drawing parallels with John the Baptist's humility in John 3:26-30, emphasizing the importance of exalting Jesus above all.

Sally concludes by reflecting on the promise of following Jesus and living a life that aligns with God's will, contrasting it with the futile effort of trying to control our own lives. Curtis shares personal anecdotes about the fulfillment found in surrendering to God’s agenda, reminding listeners of the profound joy in living purposefully for His kingdom.

Join Sally and Curtis in this enriching episode as they encourage you to humble yourself under God’s mighty power, trust in His perfect timing, and experience the honor that comes from exalting Him in your daily life.

In this episode of Arise + Abide, Sally and Curtis delve into the remarkable events of 2 Kings 2:1-18. They discuss the profound transition from Elijah to Elisha as Elijah is taken up to heaven in a whirlwind, marking the end of his earthly ministry. The hosts explore the significance of Elisha's unwavering commitment to his mentor, following him from Gilgal to Bethel, Jericho, and finally to the Jordan River. Along the way, they highlight Elisha's request for a double portion of Elijah's spirit and the symbolic acts that demonstrate God's ongoing power and presence. Through their insightful discussion, Sally and Curtis emphasize themes of faithfulness, the passing of spiritual leadership, and the miraculous ways God continues to guide and empower His followers. The episode concludes with a reflection on how Elisha's journey mirrors the path of discipleship, encouraging listeners to faithfully follow God's leading in their own lives.

In this episode of Arise + Abide, Curtis and Sally delve into Psalm 98, reflecting on its call to sing a new song to the Lord for His wonderful deeds. The episode begins with the reading of the Psalm, emphasizing God's mighty victories, His righteousness revealed to all nations, and His faithful love to Israel. Curtis and Sally discuss the three sections of the Psalm: the call to worship God for His deeds, the joyous praise with musical instruments, and the imagery of all creation singing praises to the Lord.

They highlight the importance of both planned and spontaneous worship, the unity in worshiping God as a community, and how nature itself joins in the symphony of praise. The conversation also touches on the personal impact of worship, how it shifts focus from self to God, and the power of congregational singing. Sally and Curtis reflect on the ongoing work of God in our lives, the new song we can sing each day, and the assurance of God's unfailing love and faithfulness.

The episode concludes with a discussion on God's perfect justice and fairness, offering a vision of a worldwide kingdom of justice, and a benediction encouraging listeners to praise the Lord for His rescue and deliverance.

In this episode of Arise + Abide, Curtis and Sally delve into 2 Kings 1:1-18, exploring the dramatic encounter between the prophet Elijah and King Ahaziah of Israel. Following the death of King Ahab, his son Ahaziah ascends to the throne, only to face a dire injury that prompts him to seek guidance from Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron, instead of the God of Israel.

 Curtis and Sally provide context by reflecting on the powerful story of King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20, emphasizing the themes of faith and reliance on God during times of crisis. They then transition to the narrative in 2 Kings, highlighting how King Ahaziah's actions mirror his father's disobedience and idolatry.

 Through a detailed reading of the scripture, the hosts discuss Elijah's bold confrontation with Ahaziah's messengers and the subsequent divine judgment. Elijah's unwavering faith and God's miraculous protection through the descent of heavenly fire illustrate the consequences of turning away from God and the supremacy of His authority over earthly powers.

 Curtis and Sally also draw parallels between Elijah's story and the teachings of Jesus, particularly focusing on the importance of understanding God's heart and purpose through the lens of Christ's life and ministry.

 The episode concludes with reflections on the themes of repentance, God's mercy, and the assurance of His protection for those who faithfully serve Him. Listeners are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty and to seek His guidance in all circumstances.

Join Sally and Curtis in this episode of Arise + Abide as they delve into Psalms 97, celebrating the majestic reign of the Lord. Through vivid imagery, the psalm illustrates God's overwhelming power and justice, painting a picture of dark clouds, fire, and lightning that herald His presence.

Sally reflects on the awe-inspiring vision of God's glory witnessed by all nations, drawing parallels with the prophecy in Isaiah 40 about preparing the way for the Lord. She highlights the transformative shift in perspective when we recognize the worthlessness of idols compared to God's supreme power.

Curtis emphasizes the foundational principles of God's throne—righteousness and justice—and explores the call to live in right relationship with God and others. He discusses the impartiality of God's love, exemplified by Jesus' sacrifice, and the journey of discipleship, which requires surrendering to God's will and hating evil.

Together, they explore the themes of God's protection, the illumination of His light on the godly, and the joy that comes from aligning our hearts with His. Through personal reflections and biblical insights, this episode encourages listeners to rejoice in the Lord, embrace His promises, and radiate His goodness in the world.

Tune in for a profound exploration of Psalms 97 that will inspire you to see God's glory and live a life rooted in His justice and righteousness.

In this episode of "Arise + Abide," Curtis and Sally delve into the dramatic events of 2 Chronicles 20, titled "The Battle is Not Yours But God's." They recount the story of King Jehoshaphat, who faces an imminent threat from a vast coalition of enemy armies. Terrified, Jehoshaphat seeks the Lord's guidance and calls for a national fast. The episode highlights the powerful prayer of Jehoshaphat, his declaration of God's past faithfulness, and the prophetic assurance that God would fight the battle for Judah.

Curtis and Sally draw parallels between Jehoshaphat's prayer and the Lord's Prayer taught by Jesus, emphasizing the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty and faithfulness in times of crisis. They discuss the miraculous victory where the enemy armies turn on each other as the people of Judah sing praises to God, demonstrating that worship and reliance on God can bring deliverance.

The hosts also explore the broader lessons from Jehoshaphat's reign, noting his occasional alliances with wicked kings and the consequences of those decisions. Sally reflects on the significance of seeking God in worship and praise during difficult times, while Curtis emphasizes the need for humility and a heart turned toward God in every circumstance.

Through this episode, listeners are reminded of the importance of relying on God's strength, the power of collective prayer and worship, and the assurance that God will fight their battles when they trust in Him.

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Arise + Abide! In today's episode, Curtis and Sally dive into Psalms 96, a powerful call to worship and praise.

Join us as we explore the profound encouragement and instructions for living a life filled with worship. Curtis opens by reading the Psalm, highlighting the call to sing a new song to the Lord and proclaim His glorious deeds among the nations. Sally adds depth by connecting Psalms 96 to David's song of praise in 1 Chronicles 16, illustrating the vibrant and joyful worship that David embodied.

 We discuss the cost of discipleship and how a true life of worship extends beyond Sunday services, touching every aspect of our daily lives. Curtis emphasizes the importance of surrendering to the Holy Spirit to effectively share the good news of Christ, while Sally reminds us to recognize and give glory to the Lord for His continuous work in our lives.

Finally, we reflect on the promise of the Lord's coming and His just judgment, bringing hope and encouragement in a world often filled with turmoil.

Tune in to be uplifted and inspired to live a life of continuous worship, recognizing God's daily wonders, and preparing for His glorious return. 

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In this episode of Arise + Abide, Sally and Curtis delve into 2 Chronicles 19, exploring the aftermath of King Ahab’s demise and Jehoshaphat’s role in seeking and establishing justice in Judah. Reflecting on the consequences of Jehoshaphat’s alliance with Ahab, they discuss the seer Jehu’s rebuke and the king's subsequent commitment to God. The chapter emphasizes Jehoshaphat’s unique approach as a king who actively encouraged his people to follow the Lord, traveling from town to town and appointing judges to ensure just and God-centered rulings. Sally and Curtis highlight the importance of wholehearted devotion to God, the pitfalls of divided loyalties, and the lasting promise of God’s favor for those who seek Him earnestly. They conclude with reflections on the cost of discipleship, the power of righteous leadership, and the assurance of God's establishment for those who pursue His ways. Tune in for an insightful discussion on leadership, justice, and faithfulness.

In this episode Curtis and Sally explore Psalm 95, a scripture that encourages joyous praise and reverence for the omnipotent God. They delve into the psalm's vibrant call to worship, reflecting on the magnificence of a God who created the vast expanse of the earth and still tenderly shepherds His people. The episode vividly contrasts the joyous worship with a solemn warning from history—highlighting the consequences faced by ancestors who hardened their hearts and ignored God's guidance in the wilderness. Through their discussion, Sally and Curtis emphasize the importance of daily, active engagement with God's voice to avoid the pitfalls of rebellion and to embrace His promises of eternal rest, as reiterated in Hebrews chapters three and four. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder of the rest that awaits believers through faith in Jesus Christ, encapsulated by the comforting words of Matthew 11:28. This episode serves as a call to listeners to remain close to God, listening for His guidance through the chaos of life and into His promised peace.