True joy, distinct from temporary happiness, emerges from a deep understanding of our identity as God's adopted children and our relationship with Jesus Christ. While happiness depends on external circumstances, biblical joy remains constant even during life's challenges, flowing from the knowledge of God's perfect love and acceptance. Maintaining joy requires intentional choices, including surrendering our emotions to God's lordship, staying connected to Christian community, and focusing on God's truth rather than circumstances. The church plays a vital role in sustaining joy through mutual encouragement, accountability, and practical support during difficult seasons. Common obstacles to joy include unforgiveness, anxiety, attempting to control outcomes, and isolation from community. Practical steps toward cultivating lasting joy involve daily reflection on our identity in Christ, meaningful engagement with Christian community, releasing control to trust God's plans, and practicing gratitude regardless of circumstances. By addressing these areas and staying rooted in biblical truth, we can experience the deep, lasting joy that characterizes authentic Christian living.

In this message, guest speaker Kalley Heiligenthal invites us into God’s heart for closeness and unity. From the garden to the cross to the outpouring of the Spirit, God’s desire has always been to dwell with His people. Kalley reminds us that Jesus is worthy of what He wants—a bride that is united, a body that is whole, and a people who love Him and one another deeply. She calls us to embrace dependence on the Holy Spirit, pursue unity in the body of Christ, and live as a people ready for the wedding feast of the Lamb.

In this message, Pastor Tim unpacks the story of Gideon in Judges 7 to reveal how God tests our hearts with provision, not just with battles. Just as Gideon’s army was reduced from 32,000 to 300, God reminds us that true victory comes when we trust the Provider above the provision. This message challenges us to live in the freedom Jesus won, to experience His presence now—not just in eternity—and to stay focused on the mission of setting others free.

In this powerful conclusion to our Kingdom of God series, Pastor Tim unpacks what it truly means to approach God with childlike faith—and to know Him, not just as Lord or Creator, but as Abba Father. Through Scripture, we discover that Jesus invites us into an intimate relationship where we can experience the kingdom of heaven here and now. From understanding God’s many attributes to embracing His fatherly love, this message challenges us to move beyond religious formality and into deep, personal closeness with Him. No matter your past experiences, God longs for you to run to Him as His beloved child.

What does it mean to give God full custody of your life? In this powerful message, we’re invited to rediscover our identity as sons and daughters of God—not based on what we’ve done, but on what He has already finished. Through the lens of childlike faith, we explore the true access point to the Kingdom of God: humility, wonder, and trust in our Father. If you’ve been striving, this is your call to rest, receive, and return to relationship.

Finding lasting joy through life's challenges and discovering spiritual growth in difficult seasons. Learn the crucial difference between temporary happiness and enduring joy, and how to maintain joy during tough times. Explore practical ways to overcome anxiety, develop spiritual maturity, and lead with authentic joy. Topics include spiritual growth, overcoming adversity, faith development, Christian leadership, finding purpose in suffering, community support, and personal transformation. Discover how challenges can strengthen your relationship with God and prepare you for greater impact. Perfect for anyone facing difficult circumstances or seeking deeper spiritual growth. Keywords: Christian joy, spiritual growth, overcoming challenges, faith journey, Christian leadership, finding purpose, spiritual maturity, biblical teaching, Christian living, faith development, spiritual transformation, Christian community, biblical wisdom, spiritual guidance.

In this message, we’re reminded that Jesus isn’t looking for polished, put-together professionals—He’s looking for children. Through stories from Matthew 6, Matthew 19, Hebrews 11, and the life of Jonah, we’re called back to a simple, childlike trust in our Heavenly Father. Whether you’re overthinking your future, worried about provision, or unsure if you’re qualified, this message calls you to release fear and return to wonder. The Kingdom of God belongs to those who believe like a child.

What does it mean to have childlike faith? In this message, we’re reminded that greatness in the Kingdom isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about trusting God with humility and wonder. Through stories of Abraham, Jonah, and personal moments of faith, we’re invited to ask questions, surrender control, and say yes to God’s leading, even when the path is unclear. 

In this episode, we uncover the deep connection between creativity, joy, and faith. Moving past surface-level happiness, we explore how lasting fulfillment comes through a genuine relationship with God. You’ll learn why true creative expression doesn’t have to come from suffering or darkness, and how artists can embrace joy as a spiritual gift.

We’ll discuss the difference between happiness and spiritual joy, how to process emotions honestly with God, and ways to find creative inspiration through divine connection. This conversation challenges the “tortured artist” stereotype and offers practical insights for living with authentic joy—in both your art and everyday life.

Perfect for Christian artists, creators, and anyone seeking deeper purpose, this episode is an invitation to experience freedom, healing, and inspiration through faith.

What do you say when you're under pressure—when you're tempted, hurt, or afraid? In spiritual warfare, words are not just sounds—they are weapons. In this powerful message, discover how to fight with the truth of God's Word just like Jesus did in the wilderness. 📖 Text: Matthew 3:16–17; 4:1–11 (NLT) 🔑 Key Points: The enemy attacks what God has already affirmed Victory is in your vocabulary—declare what is written When you speak the Word, the enemy leaves and heaven steps in Don’t fight with your feelings—fight with faith. Don’t speak fear—speak War Words. 🎯 Be affirmed by the Father 🛡️ Be armed with the Word 👑 Be assisted by Heaven Declare the truth. Defeat the lie. Win the war. 📍For more messages and resources: newlifecovenant.org