The LehmanCast

Hang In There!

Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. The widow in the story does not give up asking for what she wants. We may not always see the results of our prayers, but that doesn't mean God is not listening and answering. God will always hear the persistent prayers of our hearts.

Luke 18:1-8

What We Do, Not What We Say

We don’t deserve extra credit for doing what we’re supposed to do. As a Christian, I am to do my Christian duty and my reward is not praise. It is the knowledge that I have been faithful. Perhaps on this special Sunday, we can remind ourselves of our duty to remain unified under the sacrifice of Christ, putting aside those things that are non-essentials to our faith so we might celebrate the One who brings us together.

Luke 17:5-10

I referenced this Scripture a few weeks ago when I preached about money, but it’s not just about those who are rich. It’s a call to focus on the things that will truly last: doing good, being generous, and sharing with others. In this way, we put our hope in God (a reminder from last week) and have the opportunity to embrace the things in this world that truly bring life. 

1 Timothy 6:6-19

These days are challenging times for the church, and maybe for us, too. But we serve a God who is not absent during those times. In fact, there is a promise upon which we can place our hope. God knows the future, and his plans to get us there can be trusted, even though we may not be able to see past our difficulties. This promise was made to the exiles, and his promise is also for us. Hope is real and alive!

Jeremiah 29:1, 4-14

How Should I Pray?

Following Jesus is not private. It is a lifelong journey taken with fellow Christians. Research shows: Young adults who continue their involvement in a local church beyond their teen years are as those who don’t to have a close personal friendship with an older adult in their faith community (59% vs. 31% among church dropouts).

1 Peter 4:8-11; Galatians 6:2-3; James 5:16; John 15:12-13

Everyone needs money to live.  How much is enough?  How does God want us to use our money?

The phrase “how to budget” receives 72,102 unique monthly searches on YouTube in America

The most important financial goal of American Christians is to “provide for my family”

The second most important financial goal of American Christians is to “support the lifestyle I want”

The sixth most important financial goal of American Christians is to “serve God with my money”

Malachi 3:10;   Ecclesiastes 5:10-15

To make a point, 4 out of the 10 most popular Bible verses on Bible Study Tools directly address fear.  Faith and Scripture play an integral role in combatting fear and uncertainty. Of course, fear is unavoidable. Being equipped to confront fear in an ever-changing world is critical.  Philippians 4: 10-13; Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 23