journeyfirstnlr's Podcast

Waiting on God Series: Ch. 7 - 9.25.24

Tonight, we delved into chapter 7 of "Waiting on God." The chapter underscores that God takes the first move in our lives because He first loved us. When God tests our faith, it often comes unexpectedly, revealing our blind spots and helping us become who God wants us to be. We also revisited the story of Joseph, emphasizing the importance of resting in God's way and being intentional about spending time with Him to realize our purpose and identity. The waiting period has a purpose; it prepares us for what's coming. God always provides a way of escape when tempted and waits for us to respond to His offer of a changed life.

Waiting on God series: Chapter 6- 9.18.24

Hey J-Fam!

This week, we dove into Chapter 6 of *Waiting on God* by Wayne Stiles, reflecting on Luke 16:10: “If you are faithful in the little things, you will be faithful in the big things.”

We explored the **power of obscurity**—how being faithful in the unseen moments prepares us for God’s purpose. Whether you're in the valley or on the mountaintop, God sees you!  He is refining us in every season, teaching us to abide in Him, just like the tree planted by the rivers of water (Psalm 1). 

Are you stuck in the process? Feeling like you're in a pitstop? Don’t give up!  God is working behind the scenes. The fruit will come in due time. Galatians 6:9 reminds us to not grow weary—our breakthrough is near! 

**Keep going** and trust the process. Even when it feels dark, God is working. He didn’t bring you this far to leave you now. 

Listen in to the full conversation to learn how to push through, stay faithful, and allow God to display His glory in your life! 

Waiting on God Series: Chapter 5 - 9.11.24

Hey J-Fam,

In our latest discussion of *Waiting on God* by Wayne Stiles, we dove deep into **Chapter 5** and explored the powerful themes of testing, pride, and faith. Just like Joseph in prison, our waiting periods can feel overwhelming, but they’re meant to strengthen us. We asked the big questions: *Is God testing me? What am I supposed to learn?

Joseph learned to give God the glory, even through hardships. He grew from a privileged son to a humble servant, and in the waiting, God prepared him for his destiny.

**Listen in** to our latest podcast or watch the video to find out how waiting on God builds your character and prepares you for greater things!

Life Lessons: Babylonian Mentality - P. Randy 9.4.24

Tonight, we had the privilege of hearing from Pastor Randy as he explored the difference between waiting on God and being stuck. He challenged us to reflect on whether we’re in a “Babylonian mentality”—comfortable in a place of captivity rather than moving toward the promises God has for us.

We discussed the Israelites’ exile to Babylon and their struggles.

Pastor Randy warned against clinging to familiar places when God calls us to move forward. Often, we pray for change but remain wrapped in the chains of our comfort zone. Babylon represents everything that pulls us away from God’s blessings, and if we’re not careful, we can stay stuck while calling it “waiting.”

True faith requires risk. It’s about getting up, moving through difficult circumstances, and trusting God on the 900-mile journey. Are you stuck in a Babylonian mentality? Or are you walking in faith, even through dangerous or uncertain times, knowing that God’s promises are on the other side? Don’t miss out on God’s blessing by staying where you are!

Catch the whole discussion in our latest podcast/video. 

Waiting on God Series: Chapter 4 -8.28.24

Hey J-Fam,

This week, we continued our journey through *Waiting on God* by Wayne Stiles, diving into Chapter 4. We explored how Joseph, despite being falsely accused, maintained his character and righteousness, trusting God’s timing. Joseph’s story reminds us that it’s not about us—it’s about God’s timing and His promises. 

We discussed the dangers of rushing the process, temporary gratification, and how enduring trials build our spiritual muscles. Like Joseph, we’re being “bulletproof” through every hardship, preparing us for God’s greater plan. 

Remember, it’s not about the storm; it’s about focusing on God and His promises. Keep trusting the process, and let’s continue to grow together.

Catch the full conversation on our podcast/video! 

Waiting on God Series: Chapter 3 8.21.24

Hey Journey Fam,

In our latest discussion on chapter 3 of "Waiting on God by Wayne Stiles," we dove into the drama and history that shaped Joseph's family. 🌱 We reflected on the power of self-control, the importance of spiritual growth during waiting seasons, and the character we build when we think no one's looking.

We explored how rushing God's timing can lead to costly mistakes and how, like Tamar and Judah, the choices we make impact more than just ourselves. Waiting isn't just about time; it's about growth, trust, and letting God work in the unseen. Even in life's valleys, beautiful things can bloom. 

Catch the full conversation on our podcast/video, and let's continue to trust the process together. 

Waiting on God Series- Ch. 2 - 8.14.24

Hey J-Fam,

**Missed our discussion on Chapter 2: "When Dreams Turn into Nightmares" from *Waiting on God* by Wayne Stiles?**

 

We dove into Joseph's story from Genesis 37, reflecting on how his journey is a mirror for our own lives. Even when life doesn’t go as planned, God’s faithfulness remains. Trust Him, let go of your anxieties, and stay the course, even when it doesn’t make sense. God is with you in every step, and He's preparing you for what's next.

Catch the full conversation and be inspired! Watch the video or listen to the podcast.

Waiting on God Book Series Ch. 1 - 8.7.24

Hey J-Fam,

Tonight, we kicked off our new book series, *Waiting on God* by Wayne Stiles. This book explores the story of Joseph and the broader family dynamics that shape our walk with God. Stiles beautifully connects the dots between Joseph's life and other biblical characters, giving us a comprehensive view of the ups and downs we face in our spiritual journeys.

**Key Points from Tonight:**

1. **Joseph's Story and Family Dynamics:**
   - The book highlights not only Joseph’s life but also the complex family relationships that influenced his journey.
   - Joseph’s early life was marked by favoritism from his father, Jacob, which led to tensions with his brothers.

2. **Life's Gaps and Waiting on God:**
   - The Bible often presents the highlights of biblical characters' lives, leaving out the day-to-day details. This can sometimes make our own lives feel insignificant by comparison.
   - John 21:25 reminds us that not everything Jesus did was recorded. This teaches us that gaps in our own lives are normal and part of God’s plan.

3. **Lessons from Joseph’s Early Life:**
   - Joseph's upbringing involved witnessing deceit, manipulation, and sibling rivalry, yet God used him mightily.
   - Jacob's favoritism towards Joseph set the stage for the challenges and triumphs Joseph would face.

4. **Understanding God’s Timing and Sovereignty:**
   - Like the parable in Matthew 20:1-16, God’s grace and favor may seem unfair by human standards, but they are sovereign and purposeful.

**Discussion Highlights:**
- **Personal Stories:** We related our personal moments in our lives when we had to wait on God, relating them to the gaps and waiting periods seen in the Bible.
- **Emotional vs. Intellectual Evaluation:** We discussed how we often evaluate our lives emotionally while reading the Bible intellectually, which can create a disconnect.
- **Significance in Daily Life:** Recognizing that most significant moments are realized in hindsight and that God arranges the gaps in our lives for His purposes.

**Reading Assignment:** Continue reading *Waiting on God* by Wayne Stiles. We will be discussing chapter 2 and focusing on the journey of Joseph and how it parallels our own experiences.

**Discussion:** Be prepared to share insights and personal reflections from the next chapter in our series.

If you haven't read the book, you can still join us for the discussions. 

Let’s continue to trust God’s process, embrace the waiting periods, and look for His faithfulness in every season of our lives.

Life Lessons- Heidi Jumper ”She Walks with Jesus” 7.31.24

Hey J-Fam, Tonight, Heidi Jumper shared a profound message about the lessons she's learned on her journey with Jesus. Her mission is to walk with Jesus based on the concept of "walking in the dust of the Rabbi," striving to stay so close to Jesus that she sees, hears, and understands everything He does. In her journey, she spent a year delving into Psalm 23, and here are her key takeaways: **Psalm 23 Insights:** - **V1:** Sometimes, walking with Jesus means not even moving forward (i.e., waiting). Sometimes, Jesus sits down, and sometimes, before we can walk, we need to rest. - **V2:** Resting in Jesus and remembering His greatness (Isaiah 40:31) is the beginning of walking with Him. It's important to wait for His timing and guidance, as trying to rush ahead can lead to anxiety and exhaustion. Waiting on the Lord renews strength (Isaiah 40:31). - **V3:** The right path might seem long or boring. Following Jesus means taking the next right step as He leads. We must keep our eyes fixed on Him, not others or others' path (Hebrews 12:2). God brings others to walk with us for a season on the right path." - **V4:** Walking with Jesus doesn't always come with a whole map. He asks us to trust Him in the dark. We are called to trust that He knows what is around the next curve. Be obedient to the small things. - **V5:** When we walk with Jesus, we don't have to worry about anything. Jesus knows the safest places, even in the middle of danger. He can bless us with sustenance and refreshing even with enemies surrounding us (Matt. 6:34). - **V6:** I walk my path, and as long as I walk with Jesus, it doesn't matter where it leads on this side of heaven. He says I will dwell with Him forever. That is my destination. That is where I am satisfied. God is faithful. Let's strive to walk closely with Him and see the incredible things He does in and through our lives.   **Reminder:** We start our "Waiting on God" series next week, discussing Chapter 1 of "Waiting on God" by Wayne Stiles. Watch the full video below or listen to the podcast.

Fervent Prayer -7.24.24

Hey J-Fam,

Tonight, Mrs. Carolyn Dokes enlightened us on the power of "Fervent Prayer." Defined as exhibiting enthusiasm, zeal, conviction, persistence, and sincere belief, fervent prayer is a passionate and sincere calling out to God. We delved into James 5:16, emphasizing the importance of confessing our sins and praying for one another, and Romans 12:10-11, highlighting the devotion and honor we should have for one another in love.

A fervent heart prays through pain, suffering, thankfulness, and gratitude in every season. The fervent spirit is a gift from God, deepened by our knowledge of His word, will, and way. It's not about beautiful words but meaningful ones.

**Questions to Reflect On:**

- Who do you need to lift up in prayer?

- Who do you need to humbly ask to pray for you?

- When will you make prayer a part of your everyday life?

 

Let’s turn these reflections into everyday habits, lifting others and ourselves through prayer.