Here on this podcast we don't preach ourselves, but rather Christ Jesus our Lord. Interestingly enough, that's exactly what the apostle Paul told the church at Corinth in his Second epistle to them. He also told them not to lose heart when they encounter the trials associated with sharing God's truth

Imagine how Paul felt as he made his way to Europe to share the gospel with people he knew would be very hostile to the message. Did it keep him from going? No! He relied on God to be his strength in time of trouble and threat. A great example for us today, wouldn't you agree?

Today we'll bring you a study in the sixteenth chapter, as Paul begins his second missionary journey. One of the greatest aspects of Paul's ministry was his developing trust in the Lord's ability to be the sole controlling influence in his life. Despite the complexity of his itinerary, despite the almost daily threats to his very life - Paul learned not to flinch in his trust of God.

Many people think that the day they receive salvation through Jesus Christ is the day all of their problems disappear. That's hardly the case! But we certainly can get help in times of trouble from God! Our scripture text is the twelfth chapter of Acts, and the experience of Peter.

Today as we look at Acts chapter twelve, we'll see what happened to Peter when he was arrested, and his friends started praying for him. Not only is this a great example of trust and faith in God, it's also an illustration of something we as Christians are experiencing in the year 2022 - the government intruding into our lives as believers.

We know Jesus came to save us from a sinful separation from God, but it doesn't end there. In fact, Jesus's purpose is far more reaching than that. To understand fully the Lord's purpose, we need to consider a question: why did He come to earth as a man? One of the wonderful answers to that question is - to release us from fear.

Pastor Lloyd is going to offer some encouragement today to hang in there in those trough times, and turn your trials over to the Lord. Our message today is appropriately titled "Faith Tested", and we'll be looking at First Peter chapter flour.

Today on Bridging the Gap, we'll see that our hope for being saved from our troubles doesn't come from man. And that our "message in a bottle" arrived a long time ago, in the form of God's word.

Today on Bridging the Gap, pastor Lloyd Pulley, will show us that Christians must be careful not to get pulled into the world's "live for today" mentality. Join us in First Peter chapter four.

The year 2022 certainly has been battle, with inflation, high gas prices, and there's no end is sight. Well just as years eventually end, so too will the battle. But in the mean time, as we put on our spiritual armor, we'll be protected and emerge victorious.