For Zion’s Sake Podcast

Episode Description: In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly Volk and his son Scott continue their journey exploring the theme "But God." Shifting focus to King David and the Apostle Paul, they examine how believers can navigate deep emotional weariness, overwhelming circumstances, and human weakness. By turning to the sanctuary of God, David found renewed perspective when evil seemed to triumph. Similarly, Paul experienced divine comfort through fellow believers during intense trials. Shelly and Scott emphasize that God intentionally uses the weak and simple things of the world to demonstrate His power, calling listeners to abandon self-reliance and rest in God's strength.

Key Takeaways:

• Strength Beyond Human Failure: Even when our heart and flesh fail, God remains the permanent strength of our heart and our portion forever.

• Perspective Through God's Presence: When confused by the apparent success of the wicked or the weight of trials, entering God's sanctuary provides divine clarity.

• God Works Through Community: God often delivers comfort and encouragement during trials through fellow brothers and sisters in faith.

• God Exalts the Humble: God intentionally chooses the weak and foolish things of the world so that no one can boast in human wisdom or self-reliance.

Scripture References:

• Isaiah 62:1 – "For Zion’s sake I will not hold My peace, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, and her salvation as a lamp that burns."

• Psalm 73:25–27 – "Whom have I in heaven but You? ... My flesh and my heart fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."

• 2 Corinthians 7:5–6 – "For even when we came into Macedonia, our bodies had no rest... But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus."

• 1 Corinthians 1:26–27 – "But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty."

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Episode Description: In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly Volk and his son Scott continue their discussion on the transformative phrase "But God." Diving into the life of Joseph, they explore how God turns human betrayal, injustice, and suffering into divine purpose. Though Joseph’s brothers plotted against him and sold him into slavery, God used those exact circumstances to elevate Joseph in Egypt and preserve countless lives during a severe famine. This message serves as a powerful reminder that no matter what evil or hardship comes our way, God is able to step in and turn it around for good.

Key Takeaways:

• Overcoming Hurt Through Forgiveness: True forgiveness means letting go of bitterness and no longer needing to publicize how others have wronged us.

• Redeeming Evil Intentions: What people or spiritual forces intend for our destruction, God can reposition to bring about salvation and blessing.

• Trusting God's Higher Perspective: God sees beyond immediate trials and works through long-term circumstances to display His glory and care for His children.

• A "But God" Mindset: Adopting a perspective centered on God's infinite mercy prevents ultimate discouragement, even in seemingly hopeless situations.

Scripture References:

• Isaiah 62:1 – "For Zion’s sake I will not hold My peace, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, and her salvation as a lamp that burns."

• Genesis 45:1–8 – Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers and explains that God sent him ahead to Egypt to preserve life.

• Genesis 50:15–21 – Joseph reassures his fearful brothers after their father's death, declaring, "You meant evil against me; but God meant it for good."

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Episode Description: In this episode of For Zion's Sake, host Shelly Volk is joined by his son Scott to explore a transformational biblical theme: "But God." Focusing on key accounts in Genesis—specifically Noah in the midst of the Great Flood—they discuss how divine intervention breaks into humanly impossible situations. Even when circumstances seem entirely out of our control, God remembers His people and actively moves to bring hope, restoration, and deliverance.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Divine Intervention: The phrase "But God" marks the turning point where human limitations end and God's supernatural shift begins.

• God Remembers His Creation: Drawing from Genesis 8:1, the discussion highlights how God remembering Noah and the animals demonstrates His constant faithfulness in overwhelming times.

• Finding Hope in Hardship: When facing grief, loss, or helplessness, God's timing and intervention remain active and dependable.

• Ministry & Vision: For Zion's Sake seeks to strengthen believers and foster unity between Jewish and Gentile believers in Messiah Jesus.

Scripture References:

• Isaiah 62:1 – "For Zion’s sake I will not hold My peace, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, and her salvation as a lamp that burns."

• Genesis 7:17–24 – The account of the floodwaters covering the earth for 150 days, wiping out all land-dwelling life outside the ark.

• Genesis 8:1 – "But God remembered Noah, and every living thing, and all the animals that were with him in the ark. And God made a wind to pass over the earth, and the waters subsided."

• Romans 4:19–21 – Abraham's unwavering faith in God's promise of a son despite advanced age and human impossibility.

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Title: The Final Trumpet & The High Holy Days | For Zion's Sake

Description: In this broadcast of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelley and June Volk discuss the prophetic significance of the Jewish High Holy Days, specifically focusing on the Fall Feasts during the month of Tishri. They explore the connection between the sounding of the trumpet in Exodus and the final trumpet that heralds the second coming of Jesus. Shelley and June highlight the Hebrew word kun—meaning to be ready, established, or directed—as an essential call to consecration, self-examination, and spiritual readiness. June shares the tradition of Tashlich (casting stones into water to symbolize letting go of sin) to illustrate the importance of repentance and turning fully toward God.

Key Takeaways:

• The Prophetic Nature of the Fall Feasts: While the Spring feasts were fulfilled through Jesus's death and resurrection, the Fall feasts point toward end-time events, the final harvest, and the Messiah's return.

• The Final Trumpet: Scriptures like Matthew 24, 1 Thessalonians 4, and Revelation 14 describe the blowing of the final trumpet, signaling the gathering of God's elect and the final harvest of the earth.

• Understanding Kun: The Hebrew concept of kun calls believers to have an established, steadfast heart and to allow the Lord to direct their steps through His Word.

• Repentance and Renewal: Reflections on traditions like Tashlich serve as a reminder to examine one's life, seek forgiveness, and rely entirely on the blood of Jesus for inclusion in the Lamb's Book of Life.

Scripture References:

• Prophetic Calling: Read Isaiah 62:1 on Bible Gateway

• The Appointed Times: Read Leviticus 23 on Bible Gateway

• The Return of the Son of Man: Read Matthew 24:29-31 on Bible Gateway

• The Trumpet of God: Read 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 on Bible Gateway

• Reaping the Earth's Harvest: Read Revelation 14:14-16 on Bible Gateway

• Creating a Clean Heart: Read Psalm 51:10 on Bible Gateway

• Directing Steps by the Word: Read Psalm 119:133 on Bible Gateway

• The Lord Directs the Steps: Read Proverbs 16:9 on Bible Gateway

• Establishing Your Path: Read Proverbs 4:26 on Bible Gateway

Connect with the Ministry:

• Website: shelleyandjunevolk.com

• Mailing Address: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082

Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/

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Title: Preparing for the Trumpet: Consecration & Spiritual Readiness | For Zion's Sake

Description: Hosts Shelley and June Volk return to discuss the Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) and its prophetic weight for all believers. Continuing their look at the first sounding of the trumpet in Exodus 19 at Mount Sinai, they unpack the central theme of spiritual readiness. Central to this preparation is understanding the Hebrew word kun—meaning to be ready, established, or directed. Shelley and June highlight how true readiness requires initial consecration, setting oneself apart for God’s purposes, and removing subtle forms of idolatry. Through passages in Chronicles, Psalms, and Proverbs, they encourage listeners to cultivate a posture of true worship and allow God to direct their paths as they prepare for the final trumpet blast.

Key Takeaways:

• Consecration Before Readiness: True preparation cannot happen without consecration—setting one's heart and life completely apart for God's divine purposes rather than selfish desires.

• Understanding Kun: The Hebrew concept of kun appears throughout Scripture to describe hearts, ways, and houses being "set in order," "established," and "directed" by God.

• Worship Beyond Song: Genuine worship goes far deeper than singing; it reflects an inner attitude of heart-bowing, surrender, and obedience, as demonstrated by Abraham on Mount Moriah.

• Uncovering Hidden Idolatry: Idolatry isn't always obvious; it can quietly creep in whenever standard practices, personal preferences, or loved ones take priority over simple obedience to Messiah.

Scripture References:

• The Calling of Isaiah: Read Isaiah 62:1 on Bible Gateway

• The First Trumpet at Sinai: Read Exodus 19:10-16 on Bible Gateway

• Setting the House in Order: Read 2 Chronicles 29:35-36 on Bible Gateway

• Ways Directed to Keep Statutes: Read Psalm 119:5 on Bible Gateway

• Establishing Your Paths: Read Proverbs 4:26 on Bible Gateway

Connect with the Ministry:

• Website: shelleyandjunevolk.com

• Mailing Address: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082

Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/

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In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelley and June Volk explore the significance of the Feast of Trumpets and the biblical concept of preparation for the end days. By tracing the very first mention of the trumpet back to God’s revelation at Mount Sinai in Exodus 19, Shelley and June demonstrate how the blowing of the ram's horn calls believers to consecrate themselves, remove modern forms of idolatry, and fix their hearts on the Lord. Whether facing the trials of the end age or anticipating the Messiah's return, believers are encouraged to cultivate a steadfast heart (kun) so that the final trumpet blast brings joy rather than fear.

Key Takeaways:

• The First Mention of the Trumpet: The first biblically recorded sounding of the trumpet occurred at Mount Sinai in Exodus 19, signifying God coming down to meet with His people and setting a precedent for His future return.

• Understanding the Hebrew Word Kun: The Hebrew concept of kun—translated as being "ready," "established," "fixed," or "directed"—highlighting the necessity of spiritual preparation before the return of Messiah.

• Two Responses to the Final Trumpet: People will react to the end-time trumpet in one of two ways: with fear due to judgment and tribulation, or with great joy for those who have consecrated themselves to God.

• Guarding Against Subtle Idolatry: Idolatry isn't just pagan statues; it enters whenever anything in life—even good things like family, self, or external religion—takes priority over complete devotion to God.

Scripture References:

• The First Trumpet at Mount Sinai: Exodus 19:9–16

• The Joyful Sound: Psalm 89:15

• Steps Established by the Lord: Psalm 37:23

• A Fixed and Steadfast Heart: Psalm 57:7

• Directing the Heart to God: 1 Samuel 7:3

• The Redemption of Israel: Zechariah 12:10

Connect with the Ministry:

• Website: shelleyandjunevolk.com

• Mailing Address: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082

Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/

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Title: The Day of the Lord & The Feast of Trumpets: Preparation for the End Times | For Zion's Sake

Description: In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelley and June Volk examine the Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) and its profound connection to end-time prophecy. They walk through the Prophetic Scriptures to reveal what the Old Testament teaches about the "Day of the Lord." Rather than a lighthearted event, the prophets describe this upcoming era as a time of darkness, tribulation, and divine judgment that ultimately paves the way for the Messiah's return, the redemption of Israel, and the establishment of the Kingdom of God. Shelley and June urge believers from all backgrounds to anchor themselves in the Word, seek an intimate walk with the Lord, and yield their lives fully in preparation for what lies ahead.

Key Takeaways:

• Feasts as an Inheritance: The appointed times of the Lord listed in Leviticus 23 are not exclusively for the Jewish people; Gentile believers are invited to share in this inheritance to gain a deeper understanding of Christ’s fulfillment.

• Rosh Hashanah's Historic Roots: According to Jewish tradition, Rosh Hashanah marks the day of Creation, the conception of Isaac, and Abraham offering Isaac on Mount Moriah—a vivid foreshadowing of Calvary.

• The Reality of the Day of the Lord: Old Testament prophets like Amos, Zephaniah, and Isaiah describe the Day of the Lord not as an immediate escape, but as a severe period of darkness, distress, and purification.

• The Path to Glory: True redemption follows a biblical pattern: difficulty precedes glory, and the crown of thorns comes before the crown of glory. Believers are called to yield their wills completely to Christ to stand firm through these end days.

Scripture References & Links:

• The Appointed Feasts: Read Leviticus 23 on Bible Gateway

• The Offering of Isaac: Read Genesis 22 on Bible Gateway

• Darkness in the Day of the Lord: Read Amos 5:18-20 on Bible Gateway

• A Day of Wrath and Trumpets: Read Zephaniah 1:14-18 on Bible Gateway

• The Lord’s Anger Against Sin: Read Isaiah 13:9-10 on Bible Gateway

• The Lord Standing on the Mount of Olives: Read Zechariah 14:1-11 on Bible Gateway

Connect with the Ministry:

• Website: shelleyandjunevolk.com

• Mailing Address: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082

Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/

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As we enter the month of Tishrei—the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar—hosts Shelley and June Volk dive deep into the spiritual significance of the Feasts of the Lord. From the fulfillment of the Spring Feasts in Jesus' first coming to the forward-looking promise of the Fall Feasts, this episode offers a roadmap for spiritual rededication. Learn about the Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah / Rosh Hashanah), the 10 Days of Awe, and the powerful family tradition of Tashlich, where sins are symbolically cast into the sea. Discover how these sacred, appointed times serve as a call for both Jewish and Gentile believers to align their hearts with God.

Key Takeaways:

• The Spring Feasts Fulfilled: Passover, Unleavened Bread, First Fruits, and Pentecost (Shavuot) all directly point to Christ's sacrifice, sinless nature, resurrection, and the sending of the Holy Spirit.

• The Prophetic Fall Feasts: The Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, and Feast of Tabernacles point toward the end times, global repentance, and the ultimate gathering of God's people.

• The 10 Days of Awe & Tashlich: Starting on Rosh Hashanah, this 10-day season invites believers to reflect, seek forgiveness, and symbolically cast away sins—a practice rooted in the book of Micah.

• A Universal Call to Renewal: The appointed times of the Lord are not strictly for one background; they offer every believer an opportunity to rededicate their life, purge hidden sins, and prepare for the Lord's return.

Scripture References & Links:

• Appointed Times of the Lord: Read Leviticus 23 on Bible Gateway

• Christ, Our Passover Lamb: Read 1 Corinthians 5:7 on Bible Gateway

• Christ, The First Fruits: Read 1 Corinthians 15:22-23 on Bible Gateway

• Outpouring at Pentecost: Read Acts 2:1-4 on Bible Gateway

• Sins Cast into the Sea: Read Micah 7:19 on Bible Gateway

Connect with the Ministry:

• Website: shelleyandjunevolk.com

• Mailing Address: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082

Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hosts Shelly and June Volk conclude their week-long broadcast on "newness of life," emphasizing that believers must actively step out of comfortable, static conditions and embrace spiritual transformation through Christ.

Key Takeaways

• The Two Adams: Humanity's fallen nature through the first Adam is redeemed through the obedience, death, and resurrection of Jesus (the second Adam), giving believers the Spirit of truth.

• Radical Transformation: Living as a new creation is not a minor self-improvement; it is a fundamental shift from the old creature to walking in resurrection life.

• Four Pillars of Newness: Based on Colossians 2:6–7, walking in Christ means being rooted in Him, built up in Him, established in faith, and overflowing with gratitude.

• Moving Beyond Comfort Zones: Just as Israel was commanded to leave Mount Sinai (Deuteronomy 1:6), believers are called to move past spiritual stagnation and embrace God's ongoing, disturbing, yet necessary shifts.

• Prioritizing Christ's Will: True spiritual maturity occurs when believers surrender personal plans, putting the "You" of Jesus before the "me" of self.

Scripture Links

• Romans 5:18–21: Justification and righteousness brought through the obedience of Jesus Christ.

• Romans 6:1–4: Dying to sin and being buried with Christ through baptism to walk in newness of life.

• 2 Corinthians 5:17: Becoming a new creation where old things pass away.

• Colossians 2:6–7: Walking in Christ by being rooted, built up, established in faith, and overflowing with gratitude.

• Ezekiel 36:26: The promise of a new heart and a new spirit.

• Deuteronomy 1:6: God commanding His people to move beyond their current mountain.

• Isaiah 65:17: God's promise to create new heavens and a new earth.

• Jeremiah 31:31: The establishment of a new covenant.

• Lamentations 3:22–23: The Lord's mercies being new every morning.

• 2 Peter 3:13: Looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells.

• Revelation 21:5: God declaring, "Behold, I am making all things new."

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Hosts Shelly and June Volk continue their series on living in "newness of life," focusing on how the daily Christian walk requires surrendering human self-reliance to allow the Holy Spirit to produce authentic spiritual fruit.

Key Takeaways

• Defining the Christian Walk: Scriptural references to "walking" signify a total way of life—living by faith, in the Spirit, in wisdom, light, and truth.

• Prophetic Heart Restoration: Ezekiel 36:26–27 serves as a foundational promise where God replaces a hardened heart with a heart of flesh, enabling believers to live out His statutes through the indwelling Spirit.

• Unity in the Body: Rebirth into newness of life unifies believers across backgrounds (Jew and Gentile) into one body under Christ.

• Embracing Necessary Transition: Transitioning into a new spiritual condition can be uncomfortable or disturbing, but stepping out of old habits is essential to entering God's fullness.

Scripture Links

• Romans 6:1–4: Buried through baptism into death to walk in newness of life.

• 2 Corinthians 5:17: Becoming a new creation where old things pass away.

• Colossians 2:6–7: Four characteristics of walking in Christ: rooted, built up, established in faith, and overflowing with gratitude.

• Ezekiel 36:26–27: Promise of a new heart, a new spirit, and the indwelling Holy Spirit to observe God's statutes.

• 2 Corinthians 5:7: Walking by faith, not by sight.

• Galatians 5:16: Walking by the Spirit.

• Ephesians 4:1: Walking in a manner worthy of the calling.

• Ephesians 5:15: Walking wisely.

• 1 John 1:7: Walking in the light.

• 1 John 2:6: Walking in the same manner as Jesus walked.

• 3 John 1:3: Walking and living in the truth.

• John 14:6: Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life.

Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/

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