Living Word Family Church Sermon Podcast

As we begin our 21 day fast to start the new year, let's look once again at what a biblical fast is, what it isn't, and why we do it. There are a lot of misguided notions about fasting, and even if we are accustomed to it, it's hard sometimes to keep our focus where it should be. Fasting can be extremely rewarding and can bring about some significant growth in our lives, but it can also be difficult; let's make sure we're doing it in a way that honors god and blesses us!

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For centuries, the people of Israel looked for the one God would send to restore the throne of Israel. They eagerly awaited a prophet like Moses, a king like David; someone who would... teach them? Lead them? Rule them? What they needed -what they always needed- was someone to SAVE them. This is what Jesus was born for.

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Last week, we examined the role of the prophet as it touches on the hopes, needs, and dreams of God's people. Now we look at another prayer that God answered, when Israel said "Give us a king!" We will see that God was using all these desires and requests to prepare His people for the advent of the Messiah.

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Recognizing God's blessings and favor is essential for living abundantly. Pastor Mike shares personal experiences that illustrate God's faithfulness in various aspects of life, including work. Righteousness through Jesus brings blessings, and sharing God's goodness is vital. Seeking God's guidance and living with expectancy and gratitude are key to receiving His blessings.

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As we move through the advent season, we will see that at various times in Israel's history, they looked for, and longed for God to meet their needs in very specific ways. God's answers to those longings tells us the story of His patience, His love, and His wisdom, as He worked through the centuries to bring His will to pass, not just for Israel, but for the world. 

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When we think of the Bible's heroes of faith, Jephthah is not the first guy that leaps to our minds, is he? If you only remember one thing about Jephthah, it is almost certainly a bad thing (and we'll talk about that); but he is listed in the "hall of faith" for a reason, so let's talk about that, too! Jephthah was an unlikely hero, and a flawed one, but a hero nonetheless, and his life can speak to us today.

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Probably the most common word in the prayers of people around the world is “please”. Most of us were raised to say “please” and “thank you". If we were as focused on what we have to be thankful to God for, our faith for the things we are asking for would increase!

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Gratitude towards God is essential, highlighting His goodness and mercy. The concept of abundant life is presented as a divine promise, emphasizing the difference between mere survival and a fulfilling existence. Pastor Mike talks about the support for those in need and the role of suffering for the gospel. As believers, we are encouraged to prosper through faith, with praise and worship as tools to overcome challenges.

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