Seeking First the Kingdom

"Is it not strange that we can for one moment lose sight of heaven, and the increasing glory; and grovel in the dust to gather pebbles, for the pleasure of throwing them away afterwards?"  - Mary Winslow, prayer warrior (1774-1854)

 

To Start: What do you think it means to "put God first" in practical terms? Does it mean the same thing for everyone?

Main Theme: When we put God first in our lives, we are never alone and always have the perfect model for behavior, deep peace, and strength to face anything. This approach defines a life well-lived.

By putting God first, we acknowledge that He is always with us and guiding us, so we never have to face difficulties on our own. Scriptural references such as Joshua 1:9 and Psalm 23:4 provide reassurance and comfort in His constant presence, a reality reinforced through the practice of daily prayer.

It isn't about being flawless; it's about consistently making an intentional effort to keep your focus on your faith, which brings peace and a sense of connection by relying on God's unending love and guidance.

This belief cultivates a feeling of security and purpose by suggesting that a person's identity and choices are part of a greater, divine design rather than solely dependent on themselves.

God also provides the ultimate example for how one should live. Matthew 22:37–39 emphasizes the preeminence of loving God and one's neighbor. Proverbs 3:5-6 suggests relying on God to show the right path.

Through God, we receive peace that surpasses understanding and the strength to face all things. In Philippians 4:6-7, the Bible instructs people to use prayer as a path to receiving God's peace. For those feeling weary, Isaiah 40:29-31 offers the promise of God's sustaining power.

Centering your life on God brings about transformation, joy, and purpose. Matthew 6:33 states the importance of putting God’s kingdom first. While Psalm 32:8 suggests that if you want a successful life, you should let God guide you.

As we close, consider evaluating your priorities to help keep God central, and renew your commitment to living a life of obedience and faith. You can do this by:

• Observing a daily spiritual discipline of prayer and scriptural reflection.
• Remaining persistent in prayer.
• Reading the Bible daily.
• Valuing obedience to God above all else.

Closing Prayer: "Dear Lord, we surrender our worries and our paths to You. Remind us to put You first in all things, that we may find true peace and purpose in Your presence. In Your holy name, Amen."

Grace be unto you,

Charlotte

Advent 2025 Study | The First Week of Advent: The Hope of the World (Sunday, November 30 - Sunday, December 6, 2025)

"One who has hope lives differently."  - Dietrich Bonhoeffer, German Lutheran pastor (1905-1945)

The initial week of Advent focuses heavily on the theme of hope. It is a time for reflection, anticipating the historical arrival of Jesus, His promised return, and the spiritual renewal He offers to believers.

The Bible presents Jesus Christ as the world's singular source of hope, offering eternal life, forgiveness, and fulfillment to all people, including the sick, the poor, the guilty, and the anxious.

This hope provides an enduring, eternal perspective grounded in God's reliable promises. It is dynamically brought to life through active faith and perseverance, providing direction to believers as they face trials and motivating them to lead lives of service to others.

Within the Church community, this hope is shared and magnified, creating a healing environment that points members toward God.

Beginning Prayer: "Dear God, as Advent begins, help us get ready for the new start Your Son brings. Clear our busy minds so we can focus on the hope You promise. Prepare our hearts for Jesus' coming. Amen."

I. Beyond Wishful Thinking: The Reality of True Hope - Unlike true assurance, worldly hope is merely a passing "wish" or "fingers crossed" built on human ability alone. Biblical hope is a confident certainty, not a mere desire; it is an assurance anchored in the faithful promises and character of God.

Exploring the Scriptures: Read the following scripture verses for a deeper understanding of the preceding text.

• Romans 5:3-5; Hebrews 6:19; Hebrews 11:1

Let's Talk About It:

1. What is the fundamental difference between a biblical definition of hope as "confident expectation" versus the world's definition of hope as "wishful thinking"?
2. Describe a time when placing your trust in worldly things (like money, career, or status) didn't deliver the lasting fulfillment you expected.
3. In what ways does the concept of hope as an anchor in Hebrews 6:19 offer you security when facing personal storms?

II. Jesus: The Source of True Hope - While many things like money, power, and self-help offer hope, their temporary nature means they eventually disappoint. According to the Bible, the sole source of eternal hope is God and His Son, Jesus Christ.

Exploring the Scriptures: Read the following scripture verses for a deeper understanding of the preceding text.

• Romans 15:13; Colossians 1:27; 1 Timothy 6:17; 1 Peter 1:3

Let's Talk About It:

1. Which modern myths about success prove to be empty?
2. How does the historical event of Jesus' resurrection transform human hope from mere wishful thinking into a concrete, living certainty?
3. In what practical ways can I demonstrate that my ultimate security is in God, not in wealth or worldly situations?

III. The God of Hope: Our Source of Strength and Future - Genuine biblical hope is a living reality, not just a future promise. It empowers endurance through trials, fuels actions of love, and motivates us to share this gift with those still seeking hope.

Exploring the Scriptures: Read the following scripture verses for a deeper understanding of the preceding text. 

• Romans 12:12; Titus 2:13; 1 Peter 3:15

Let's Talk About It:

1. How does the Biblical hope of Jesus' return (Titus 2:13) influence the practical choices you make in your daily life?
2. If someone asked why you are so hopeful in a broken world, what would your simple explanation be?
3. How does maintaining hope change our experience of suffering, allowing for greater patience?

On a final note, in an era marked by global instability, people are seeking solid ground. We, as followers of Christ, possess this stability through the singular hope He provides. Our mandate is clear: not simply to embrace this hope personally, but to project His light into the world’s darkest corners.

Final Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for being the God of all hope. We confess we often trust in temporary things. Help us fix our eyes on Jesus, our true hope. Fill us with your joy and peace, that we may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit, and share it with the world. In Jesus' name, Amen.

In God's name,

Amy

Bible Studies To-Go | Advent 2025 | Introduction: The Promise of the Messiah

"I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning."  - Psalm 130:5-6

The ©Bible Studies To-Go series presents abridged Scripture studies that are tailored for the contemporary believer who desires to enhance their Bible learning, but is limited by a demanding daily routine. 

Our concise studies focus on themes, topics, and in some cases are even developed by questions we gather from our work with others. In-depth Bible studies can easily be obtained from other sources, if one prefers that.

Opening Prayer: "God, we are grateful to be here together. Please speak to us through your Word and help us to listen with open hearts. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Background Information:  Advent is a sacred season of preparation, focusing on Christ's first coming at birth and anticipating his glorious return, all while reflecting on themes of hope, peace, joy, and love.

"Advent" comes from the Latin adventus, a word for "arrival" or "coming," and for Christians, Advent is a time of spiritual preparation, marked by devotion and eager expectation for the past, present, and future aspects of salvation and Christ's return.

The four Sundays leading up to Christmas are known as the period of Advent. The 2025 season starts on Sunday, November 30. Over the four weeks of Advent, we journey through the themes of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

Topic for Study: The Unchanging God in a Shifting World - Psalm 130

Primary Message: Amidst life's shifting circumstances, emotions, and relationships, believers find stability in God's consistent character and unfailing word. Through active waiting, we cultivate hope, patience, and resilience.

I. Introduction: Our Changing World

We are all aware of the fast-moving nature of modern life, where technology, political climates, health situations, and personal relationships are constantly evolving.

Guiding Question: What situations or news have recently made you feel particularly anxious or unstable?

Let's now turn to Psalm 130, a personal prayer of confession and a plea for forgiveness that is traditionally attributed to King David. The text expresses a desperate plea for God's mercy and redemption, born from profound sin and distress, grounded in the assurance that God is forgiving. 

The psalm moves from an individual's confession of sin to a confident wait for the Lord's promised redemption. Despite the surrounding darkness, the psalmist finds an unshakeable source of hope in God's steadfast character. Read the psalm, focusing on verses 1-4.

II. A Secure Hope in an Unchanging God - Selected Passage: Psalm 130:5-6

Focus on verse 5a of this passage, "I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope." Note that this is not passive waiting but active, expectant waiting that involves the entire self. 

It's a conscious surrender to God's timing and will. This is a vibrant, intentional waiting—an engaged yielding of your whole being to align with God's perfect time and will

Key concept: Our focus for help should be heavenward toward God, avoiding dependence on our limited strength or the world's changing answers.

Next, turn your attention to verse 5b, "and in his word I put my hope." This segment of the verse teaches that our hope rests on the unchanging reliability of God's Word and promises, not on mere wishful thinking. We can count on His reliable character and guaranteed assurances.

Prompt for Discussion: What specific parts of scripture give you a sense of peace and security when the world around you feels chaotic?

Finally, look at verse 6, "I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning." The psalmist’s yearning is perfectly illustrated by the analogy of a night watchman intently watching for daybreak

For the watchman, the morning's arrival is a certainty that promises an end to the dark, perilous night. And just as the sun always rises, we can trust that God's timing and deliverance are certain.

III. Unwavering Hope: A Life Application

Navigating periods of change through patient reliance on God fosters spiritual maturation. Here are some strategies for productive waiting:

• Make God's Word a Top Priority - Daily scripture study allows God's unchanging truth to shape your perspective and guide your decisions.
• Be Honest and Hopeful in Prayer - Clearly articulate your situation and needs to God, trusting completely that He is listening.
• Practice Patience - See waiting as an opportunity, not a burden. We develop stronger faith and character during times of waiting.
• Put Your Hope in His Unfailing Love - Remember that God is the source of unfailing love and full redemption. His love is deeper than the deepest despair.

An Assignment for You: This week, select one promise from the Bible to anchor your thoughts and remind you of God's steadfastness amidst life's uncertainties.

IV. Final Thoughts and Prayer

To summarize, in a world of constant change, our hope rests solely on the unchanging, merciful, forgiving, and faithful nature of God.

Closing Prayer: "Dear Lord, grant me the patience to wait without worry and the grace to use this season of anticipation well. In my waiting, steady my heart with the promise of Your presence. Amen."

The Lord Jesus bless you,

Danielle

Weekend Message | How to Know God’s Will for Your Life | FULL EPISODE | Better Together on TBN

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

It's always our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This week, we present the TBN "Better Together" 2025 Thanksgiving Special! This episode explores how gratitude, viewed as an act of faith, can help individuals navigate difficult periods Shifting our perspective can bring this about, uncovering God's presence in all circumstances, difficult ones included

Choosing gratitude is a life-altering decision that transforms one's perspective, offering solace and inviting divine strength, peace, and joy into the heart. The episode's core message is that being grateful boosts your resilience, deepens your faith, and gives you a spiritual way to fight off despair

© Better Together on TBN

Join us as Laurie Crouch, Sheila Walsh, Holly Wagner, Nona Jones, and Dr. Irini Fambro share how to walk through seasons of suffering and find renewed hope, peace, and grace on the other side of gratitude.

Elevate your weekend with this inspiring and informative discussion!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Live in God's Presence

"So we are to live and move and have our being in God, to look at everything in relation to God, because the abiding consciousness of God pushes itself to the front all the time."  - Oswald Chambers, early-twentieth-century Scottish Baptist evangelist and teacher (1874-1917)

In the initial segment of the above quotation, to "live and move and have our being" in God comes from Acts 17:28. How does this imply that our dependence on God is total, encompassing all aspects of life?

This verse from the Apostle Paul's speech to the Athenians, highlights that God is the primary cause of everything in existence. It suggests that our ability to live life through our senses, and every breath, heartbeat, and moment is a gift from Him.

This reality is spiritual in nature, not just physical. God is the ultimate reality and source of all awareness. That is, we should let Him be the ultimate guide for our lives. Life without God is empty; with God, it is full of meaning.

To live and breathe God conveys that His presence sustains our inner lives. It highlights that sin is a significant factor in our disconnection from God and impedes spiritual development. It also means purging yourself of things that are "spiritually draining," such as negative thoughts, unhelpful habits, toxic relationships, etc.

Prioritizing a relationship with God involves making daily decisions to obey God's Word, thereby aligning our lives with His will, rather than the world's. In practice, this manifests as a consistent commitment to prayer, active faith, and leaning into the Holy Spirit.

By drawing near to God (seeking Him out), we are, in essence, actively engaging and moving into or toward God. Thus, to bring our points together, by centering our lives on God, we become active partners in His kingdom work.

Implementing and Acting

A. Prioritize God Above All Else:

• What steps can you take to experience God's peace and strength in the midst of life's storms?
• Think about the moments you have felt overwhelmed. Did you instinctively turn to God?

B. Live an Obedient Life:

• How do you actively choose to honor God's word in every decision, even when it's difficult? 
• What is one change you can make in your routine this week to better follow God's will?

C. Pursue a Relationship with God:

• What can you do to feel closer to God this week, even in small ways?
• Think about creating space in your day to connect with Him spiritually, either through prayer or reading the scriptures.

D. Embody the Gospel:

• How can you live out Christian values of compassion, kindness, and fairness every day?
• What is one way to show someone the hope of Christ through my actions or words? 

Essentially, living in accordance with God's plan indicates a life lived in Him isn't pointless; it's a life of divine purpose and direction. Understanding that our life originates from God changes our perspective; we find more joy and gratitude in life, knowing we are part of His purpose.

Scripture: Genesis 2:7; Psalm 36:9; John 14:6; John 15:5; James 4:8

Prayer: "Dear God, you give being to all. I surrender my life to you, the source of all life, and ask that you guide my steps, for apart from you, I can do nothing. Amen." 

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you,

~Eve

Thankfulness as God's Will and Purpose

"In thanking God, we fasten upon His favors to us; in praising and adoring God, we fasten upon His perfections in Himself."  - Matthew Henry, British Nonconformist and Presbyterian minister and author (1662-1714)  

"What comes to mind when you think about the meaning of thankfulness?" 

According to the Bible, thankfulness involves a life of constant spiritual submission that recognizes all things are gifts from the mighty hand of God.

What's more, it is an act of worship and trust, not merely a simple "thank you" or a reliance on favorable timing. To be a Christian is to live a life of gratitude, and an acknowledgment of God's inherent kindness, total lordship, and enduring mercy.

In order to help explore this further, I've included an outline of some key aspects below:

I. "For from him and through him and for him are all things." - (Romans 11:36)

    Thankfulness begins with recognizing our complete dependence on God for everything.

• Biblical Passages - Acts 17:25; 1 Corinthians 4:7; James 1:17 

Points to consider: 

• How does the contemporary notion of self-sufficiency clash with the biblical principle that everything is a gift from God?
• What are some "good and perfect gifts" in your life that you may have been failing to appreciate (e.g., health, family, salvation)?

II. Thankfulness as a Duty of Gratitude. The Bible describes thankfulness as an imperative (command) and a type of worshipping God.

• Biblical Passages - Psalm 100:4; Romans 1:21; Hebrews 12:28

Points to consider: 

• Why is a lack of gratitude (thanklessness) a sin in the Bible?
• How can giving thanks in prayer help with anxiety, as mentioned in Philippians 4:6?

III. Give thanks in every circumstance. Biblical thankfulness is an unwavering inner resolve.

• Biblical Passages - Daniel 6:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:18; James 1:2-3

Points to consider: 

• What's the main difference between being thankful for all circumstances and being thankful in all circumstances?
• Recount an incident where choosing thankfulness during a hard time changed your way of seeing things?

IV. Putting Theory into Practice: Having a Heart of Thankfulness. Practicing thankfulness affects our connection with God and others through actions.

• Biblical Passages - 2 Corinthians 9:11; Ephesians  5:20; Colossians 3:17

Plan of Action:

• Extend heartfelt thanks. - Express gratitude to someone who has made a difference in your life.
• Make gratitude an integral part of your daily conversation with God. - Let your prayers include words of thanks and praise.
• Embrace a giving spirit. - Helping or giving your time or energy to others can be an expression of thankfulness.
• Write down the best part of your day. - Recording daily appreciations can be helpful.

Some Final Thoughts: The biblical meaning of thankfulness involves gratefully acknowledging God's mighty hand in all areas of life, responding with continuous reverence and indebtedness, and letting thankfulness guide your actions and interactions.

Prayer: "Dear Lord, I am so grateful for the salvation You provide. Teach me to be thankful always, acknowledging Your blessings in both joy and trials. Amen."

May your heart be light and your soul be blessed,

Piper

Inner Peace and Happiness

"Consider what man is. He is a creature that desires happiness, and cannot but desire it. The desire of happiness is woven into his nature, and cannot be eradicated. It is as natural for him to desire as it is to breathe."  - Thomas Boston, Scottish Presbyterian church leader, theologian and philosopher (1676-1732)

Ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu said, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." This principle stresses that even the most difficult challenges are begun with a single, foundational action. 

We can apply this principle to finding joy and happiness in life. Sitting around wishing for it, or waiting until a better opportunity presents itself is not the most effective way to find it.

Based on the Bible, God is the source of true and lasting happiness. It is characterized by walking in God's ways, loving God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and finding purpose in following His will.

• Psalm 16:11; Psalm 37:4; Matthew 5:3-12; Philippians 4:11-13

However, true and lasting happiness is not an unconnected principle. In order to derive the greatest benefit from it one must also lead a "blameless" life. Let's explore this a little further.

At first glance, "blameless" sounds intimidating. But in a biblical sense, it is not sinless perfection. Rather, it consists of integrity, virtue, and a total devotion to God. Simply put, it's about living authentically before God.

• Genesis 17:1, Job 1:1; Psalm 119:1

When the two join, we find that integrity sparks enduring contentment. Meaning that a blameless life leads to true happiness because you submit to God's plan, which provides protection, peace, and inherent spiritual wealth.

• Proverbs 11:20; Romans 8:28; Philippians 2:14-15; Jude 1:24

Clearly, true happiness and a blameless life are biblically connected. It is living a life of principle and meaning found in wholeheartedly seeking God, walking in His wisdom, and placing your faith in what Jesus has already accomplished on the cross.

Furthermore, by applying forgiveness, gratitude and service, meditating on God's Word, prayer and trust, we also demonstrate God's love in a broken world, strengthening our state of abiding happiness.

Prayer: "Dear God, may my life be a reflection of Your righteousness, blameless in Your eyes and a source of true happiness. In Your name, I pray. Amen."

May God bless you always,

Liana