Faith Is…
America Out Loud Network © – Every week we’ll take a fresh look at the Bible and discover that Faith Is . . . absolute confidence in the trustworthiness of God.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – On the Third Sunday of Lent, believers reflect on Jesus offering the Woman at the Well living water that brings eternal life. At the same time, Purim celebrates God’s deliverance of His people. The moment invites gratitude, prayer for Jerusalem’s peace, and renewed hope in God’s saving power and promise today…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – In tense times for Jerusalem and the Middle East, believers are called to pray for peace. A nighttime conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus reveals the life-changing truth of being born again—not as ritual words, but as wholehearted allegiance to Christ and a transformed, Spirit-filled life…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Faith grows through testing, not perfection. This Lenten reflection invites readers to see trials as gifts that reveal the heart and deepen trust in God. Following Jesus in the wilderness, believers learn gratitude, forgiveness, and courage. Grace meets weakness, reshapes habits, and leads toward hope, healing, and a living relationship with Christ that renews purpose and strengthens faithful daily living…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – The Bible is filled with moments that surprise and challenge our understanding of God. When Jesus is transfigured before His disciples and joined by Moses and Elijah, God speaks again from the cloud. This powerful moment invites readers to see Jesus as God sees Him and to listen anew…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – I invite you to approach Lent with intention and hope. Drawing from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, I call you to seek truth at its source and grow in confidence in God. Lent becomes a season of turning toward Scripture, worship, service, and faithful community, so our lives reflect Christ as salt and light through humble repentance and love daily…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – What is the Biblical response to immigration in a divided age? This reflection calls Christians to look past politics and sentiment and return to Scripture. By grounding compassion in truth, honoring God’s promises, protecting families, and loving neighbors with courage, believers are challenged to respond to today’s crises with conviction, mercy, and faithfulness…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – A church service is disrupted by a mob, raising urgent questions about faith, sacred space, and the true example of Jesus. In turbulent times, believers are called to turn toward God, guard worship, welcome seekers, and remain faithful. Small acts of obedience become lasting grace, reminding us to trust the Lord’s unfailing love…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Many struggle to trust God, fearing He stands ready to condemn. The good news declares God is for us, not against us. Holy Communion anchors that trust, offering mercy and grace. In weary seasons, small acts of discipline, faithful community, and regular communion renew confidence, strengthen hearts, and remind believers they rest in God’s enduring loyalty…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Bible sales are rising as people search for meaning and truth. Faith, repentance, and Scripture invite a fresh beginning rooted in God’s word. Jesus’ baptism shows repentance as a deliberate turn toward God, while today’s world reminds believers to watch where faith and history intersect and respond with trust, discipline, and commitment to live covenant life…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – The New Year invites a fresh start rooted in faith and wisdom. Reading a different Bible translation opens Scripture in new ways, helping God’s voice speak clearly. Small, steady practices shape lasting change. Trust what God reveals, take faithful steps forward, and allow grace to guide daily obedience and worship…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Criticism comes easily, but gratitude and faith invite deeper renewal. This reflection calls readers to rediscover covenant as the heart of God’s relationship with humanity. Rooted in Scripture and the new covenant in Christ, it encourages trust over striving, communion over isolation, and a fresh beginning grounded in grace, love, and spiritual commitment…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – That same discipline of careful thought belongs in the life of faith. Scripture shows law protecting us until we are ready to follow God in love. The law keeps children from danger. Faith invites us to maturity. To love God with heart, soul, mind, and strength and to love our neighbor as ourselves is a higher calling. It changes how we live and how we judge…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – A pastor returns from Israel profoundly changed, sharing how walking biblical ground transforms faith from words into lived reality. Through sacred sites, personal encounters, and moments of grief and hope, Israel is revealed not as a slogan but as a people and a promise that still matters to God and to the world…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – At Christmas, the shepherds follow simple signs and discover Jesus with urgency and faith. Advent invites us to slow down, trust God, and embrace true peace. This season points beyond nostalgia to hope, purpose, and restoration. Finding Jesus means choosing life, resting in His presence, and living confidently in the promise that God is with us…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – What’s in your lamp? As Advent begins, this reflection invites believers to prepare with faith, hope, and love. Drawing from Jesus’ parable of the bridesmaids, it calls for spiritual readiness rooted in hope rather than fear, encouraging practices that refill the soul and keep watch with joy for Christ’s coming…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Instant Sermon explores how Christians navigate a world shaped by artificial intelligence, rapid change, and growing confusion. It urges wise engagement, grounded worship, and protecting children as technology reaches deeper into daily life. Faithfulness, discernment, and truth become essential tools for staying steady and raising the next generation with clarity and moral courage for today…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Faith anchors us as we hear Wesley’s final words and Revelation’s closing promise, “I am coming soon.” Trust in God reshapes how we live, serve, and make decisions in the public square. With rising taxes and distracted priorities, readiness means honest stewardship, courageous worship, and a longing prayer: “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.”…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Revelation reveals the triumph of God over evil as heaven bursts with hallelujahs. Jesus invites His people to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, celebrating Holy Communion in eternal joy. In the Upper Room and beyond, we gather with Him, sharing in His victory and the promise of everlasting fellowship at His heavenly table…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Revelation unfolds God’s grand design of salvation and judgment. Babylon the Great falls, symbolizing the downfall of worldly idolatry and excess. In the midst of destruction, God’s people rejoice as a new beginning dawns. Through divine justice, God makes all things new, revealing His ultimate victory over evil and the promise of eternal renewal…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – The horror and relief of judgment in Revelation are now on full display. What must happen horrifies us as we find relief in deliverance from evil. Then, as though God is consoling us, worship repeatedly interrupts judgment. Worship is an unmistakable contrast to the violence of judgment. It’s so noticeable it almost seems out of place. Let’s look closely and see what Revelation reveals about worship.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – A woman’s son is rescued from a fierce dragon cast out of heaven. As the dragon rages across the earth with two beasts by its side, chaos spreads. Yet in the midst of darkness, hope rises. The Lamb stands victorious, proving that light conquers every shadow and good triumphs over evil forever…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Telling the truth is never easy, but it’s always worth it. Even when honesty is dangerous or rejected, we are called to speak boldly, just as John did in Revelation and Jesus before him. Truth may be uncomfortable, yet it leads to freedom and joy, for in the end, God’s kingdom prevails and His truth reigns forever…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – What could the Power of 4 do for you? How might you benefit from engaging the Bible four times every week? The evidence is staggering; the benefits enormous! Revelation includes some frighteningly graphic depictions of judgment. God is obviously not messing around. But should God’s people be afraid? Is the judgment of God a necessary part of salvation? Is it a blessing that one day God will…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – In one rather stunning statement, Jesus said that we, his followers, are too often naive about the world around us. So let’s talk about what that means to us and how we avoid falling into that ditch. People are talking about getting back to church. Great idea, now how do we find a good church? Consider two tips, and yes, they involve the Bible and Jesus. Finally, we’ll consider the words that…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – A significant part of the action in Revelation involves judgment. In vivid and horrifying detail, we get a glimpse of God’s awesome judgment of evil. Does this mean God is vindictive, just looking for a reason to get us? Does God enjoy the terrible attacks poured out in the seal, trumpet, and bowl judgments? Why would a good God do such things?
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – In a week of tragedy and remembrance, God tells us and shows how He redeems. It’s simply indescribable how God can take the most horrible experiences of life and somehow manage to turn evil into good. Put simply, God redeems. Using His Word and His Church, God draws near and shows us the way forward through the pain and turmoil of life. Watch for it. God redeems!
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – The four horsemen strike terror into the hearts of many people! Rightfully so unless . . . you’re a follower of Jesus. For followers of Jesus, they give us hope that Jesus can overcome evil. He has the authority to unleash death, famine, disease, and wild animals on evil. He brings judgment on evil and salvation for his people. He destroys evil and brings salvation by delivering us from evil. We are so glad…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – We’re thinking out loud with another week of Instant Sermon. These are genuine questions seeking answers. And in one case, one person was looking for green lights! Seriously, how do we receive the Holy Spirit? What about replacement theology? Are there medical treatments that God would have us avoid? These questions and more as we build absolute confidence in the trustworthiness of God.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Teenagers face challenges in staying faithful while navigating questions of worship, divorce, and remarriage. Can new songs truly glorify God, or do they risk becoming self-centered? How do families handle the pain of broken marriages with faith? This reflection invites deeper thought on guiding youth, honoring God in music, and strengthening family life through biblical wisdom…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – More Instant Sermon questions, including a look at death and the role of the Bible in our lives. Then, a look at judgment. How will or how can we know what we do for God is sufficient for His high standards? Some of us act like experts on sin, but do we really know the difference between temptation and sin? As John Wesley might say, “When is sin properly called sin?”
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Christians and the political world will always intersect. Christians need to understand politics better. Plus instant sermon questions like: What does it mean that God chose a people, and why does it matter? How do we choose a church? Is jealousy a sin? Can we fear and love God at the same time? Finally, Pilate gave Barabbas the gift of life. Jesus offers you eternal life. Receive His gift!
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – There’s a problem in the throne room. Where can we find a worthy one? Take heart. He is here; the Lion of Judah, the Slaughtered Lamb! He is worthy of worship. He is worthy to take the scroll. He provides meaning, purpose and boundaries for our lives. He made and makes salvation possible!
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Welcome to the throne room of heaven. Is it at all like what you would expect? Look around and consider who is present and what they are doing. The throne is central, and worship is continuous. God is worthy of worship because he created everything. He is worthy to receive glory, honor, and power by virtue of having created and sustaining all things. What a vision!
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – What are we going to do about the church? Churches are challenging, and our attitudes about churches are challenging! The churches of Revelation had their strengths and their faults. They weren’t so different than churches today. And like today, God calls the church to faithfulness. Indeed, God eagerly desires to embrace churches. His invitation is for the church to eagerly change and welcome Him…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – When you think about Revelation and the end of time, are you filled with hope or fear? Join me as I explore God’s powerful message in the last book of the Bible. Together, we’ll discover the hope that Jesus brings and look forward to dwelling with God forever. Let’s see what Revelation reveals for us today…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – This Independence Day weekend, I reflect on God’s gift of liberty and the founding principles that shape our nation. The Declaration of Independence reminds us that our rights come from God, and we’re called not just to seek happiness, but to pursue virtue and wisdom. Let’s give thanks for freedom and the opportunity to live it out…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Explore how guilt trips and emotional manipulation impact responsibility and personal decision-making. Reflect on trusting God’s sovereignty—distinguishing being in control versus in charge—and how that shapes beliefs about divine goodness. In a world unsettled by conflict, find a sure foundation and timely lasting remedy: inviting Christ to replace worry at the heart of daily life…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – How can Christian perspective shape our response to immigration enforcement or DEI debates? As Vacation Bible School season unfolds, we honor those serving children in faith, hope, and love. Amid celebrations, ask yourself: are you stuck or frustrated? Is life slipping by? Embrace God’s invitation to renew your mind and grow in spiritual purpose today…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Celebrate Father’s Day with a reminder to honor Dad and embrace godly wisdom. Discover the Parent Power Index, empowering families to choose the best education for their children. Explore recent brain science affirming the value of gratitude and wisdom. Learn how cultivating this essential skill can guide you to a life that pleases God, lifting you on wings like eagles…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – As Christians, we’re called to interpret recent events through faith, seeking insight despite incomplete information. On this Pentecost weekend, we rejoice in the Holy Spirit’s empowering presence, granting supernatural ability to share God’s truth. May we embrace His enabling strength, live boldly, and rise to His extraordinary calling, bearing witness to His trustworthiness each day…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Americans generally view the Bible favorably, yet few engage in its pages. Criticism arises as major media overlook foundational theological concepts like Original Sin. Observing the Ascension of Jesus reinforces core Christian beliefs and delivers a potent political message: though Rome believed they defeated…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – I celebrate the church’s resurgence led by young men, remember the sacrifice that secures our liberty, and reveal God’s offer of peace to soothe anxious hearts. I invite you to release fear, accept this divine gift, and lean into the calm assurance that transforms lives today as we journey together toward spiritual renewal and lasting inner strength every day, truly.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Sorting competing messages begins with a simple question: how do they know? Good intentions don’t guarantee truth. When someone claims eternal security in Christ, probing how they know uncovers biblical foundations. Discover how believers are assured through covenant promises and gain lasting, steadfast confidence in Christ with unshakeable, joyful hope.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – On Mother’s Day we honor and celebrate the enduring sacrifices, grace, and wisdom of mothers. This reflection challenges us to view Jesus on His own terms, avoiding projections of our expectations. At the temple, the Jewish leaders sought a Messiah in their image, reminding us to seek authenticity in faith and follow divine guidance rather than our personal desires.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – God’s gift of liberty inspires heartfelt gratitude and active citizenship. Embracing our responsibility to strengthen civic literacy transforms genuine freedom into meaningful engagement. Reflecting on Peter’s journey reminds us that our character is shaped by what we love, and that perseverance through failures refines the heart to serve with conviction.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – I celebrate the answered prayer of Easter, where resurrection forever triumphs over death. It conquers fear and transforms hearts. I affirm that Christ’s rising ushers in God’s kingdom, bringing divine will to earth as in heaven. This triumph rewrites human history, restoring hope and faith. Every day I live in the life and power of resurrection, embracing its eternal promise.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Celebrate the triumphant declaration that Jesus lives and discover how resurrection transforms our lives. No longer bound by fear or despair, we embrace hope, peace, and clarity. Resurrection restores perspective, energizes our spirit, and invites us into renewal and abundant life. Experience the joy and power of this ancient greeting and step into the full destiny you were created for.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – A reflection on the importance of Palm Sunday and Holy Week, highlighting Jesus’s Triumphal Entry as more than a celebration—it was a declaration of His Kingship. Understanding civics helps us discern truth from error, but true discipleship means pledging our allegiance to Jesus, making Him sovereign in our lives, and standing firm in faith and truth.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – I explore the deeper meaning of baptism and why it matters today. In a world full of confusion, we need clarity—spiritually and socially. Like the men of Issachar, we’re called to understand our times and help others do the same. Let’s pursue truth, shake off superstition, and embrace the fresh start God offers through cleansing waters.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Teslas, trans issues, and truth take center stage in this week’s Instant Sermon. We tackle tough questions head-on, sharpen our baloney detectors, and encourage personal Bible study. From technology to deportations, it’s about how Christians engage with challenging topics—learning when love is tough and how to love through the tough. Join the conversation that matters.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – The church has long overlooked the Civic Mission Field, but that’s changing. As we step into new territory, we explore what true engagement means. At the heart of it all is the powerful Biblical concept of covenant—God’s faithful relationship with humanity and His call for our response. Discover how ancient promises shape modern mission and purpose.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Have you considered a call to the Civic Mission Field? Churches support many mission initiatives, but God may be calling you to serve in a unique way. Temptation is something we all face, yet Jesus showed us how to overcome it. How we view temptation and salvation can shape our lives and faith in powerful ways.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Freedom of conscience is our first freedom—without it, we are not truly free. We must stay vigilant in protecting religious liberty or risk legal consequences. This explores the battle beyond politics, one of good versus evil. Plus, how are you engaging in Lent? Discover ways to tap into God’s grace and deepen your faith journey.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Have you chosen a Lent project? This season is an opportunity to grow in grace and deepen your faith. Plus, a look at Christians and civic engagement—reasons to rejoice and sharpen discernment. And when thinking about the economy, it’s more than just money; it’s about human thriving. Let’s refocus on what truly matters.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Many Christians see Lent as a time to give up something, but what if it’s an opportunity for spiritual growth? This explores how biblical teachings shed light on immigration, a topic often debated with more heat than understanding. Discover what God expects from His people and how faith can guide our perspective on this issue.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Get your baloney detector ready! It’s time to apply wisdom in economics and civics to today’s events. Deception is everywhere, but with discernment, we see the truth. Even better, we proclaim the greatest news—the Gospel. What is it really? Buckle up, because it’s even better than most people imagine!
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Who complains about income disparity while living in a $2 million home? Who champions immigrants yet worries more about losing millions? It’s no surprise. The real question is: what’s a pastor’s number one job? God challenges us to step up—just like Jeremiah, who resisted but couldn’t stop obeying. Take the next step and love boldly.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Christians must rise to this moment by deepening our understanding of civics, sharpening our economic awareness, and refining our discernment. We pursue our Kingdom Purpose by asking what kind of person pleases God—and becoming that person. Through God’s grace, we grow, develop, and strengthen the church, engaging in spiritual body-building without the aches and pains!
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – What should a prophet say to a king—or a preacher to a president? This thought-provoking reflection challenges readers to consider the words and courage needed to address leaders with God’s truth. Beyond that, it encourages everyone to embrace their unique Kingdom Purpose and stretch toward their calling, even in moments that might seem daunting.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Never shy away from new words; they’re opportunities to discover fresh ideas or deepen your understanding. Embrace God’s invitation to reimagine faithfulness, leaning into His covenant of love. Allow these challenges to stretch you toward generous love for Him and gracious love for others, enriching your journey of faith and personal growth.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Instant Sermon answers questions people are asking, such as: What about the end time? What are the greater gifts? What is an opportune time? What’s going on that the Bible is the most stolen book? Instant Sermon is one way to develop absolute confidence in the trustworthiness of God…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Christmas continues with the story of the wise men, tracing back to Daniel in Babylon. This story signifies an invitation for all people to enter a covenant with God, who is ever faithful. Reflect today on renewing or starting your covenant relationship and embrace the friendship God offers. Step into faith and hope this season!
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Christmas begins on Christmas Eve and continues for twelve days, reminding us of the joy, hope, peace, and love that Jesus brings. His presence fills our hearts and neighborhoods, showing that Christmas continues and Easter never ends. Discover how Advent prepares us for this enduring celebration of faith and the fulfillment of all our hopes!
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Don’t let anyone steal Christ from Christmas! Discover the true meaning of the season—hope, peace, joy, and love—through the story of Jesus’ birth. Explore Bethlehem, Shepherd’s Field, and the message of John the Baptist. Embrace repentance and welcome the Savior of the World. This Christmas, experience the deeper invitation God offers.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Don’t rush into Christmas. That phrase sounds like the title of a poem someone should write. It’s also true. Don’t rush into Christmas. Instead, take the weeks of Advent one by one and allow the grace of hope, peace, and joy to restore your soul. Then, step up and be the visible presence of God in the world today…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Simple things amaze me. Consider this week’s outrage overlying. Amazing! Or consider the decision to open a shop and trust people to pay for what they buy without someone watching. Amazing! There is something powerful influencing us these days! Then consider the message of the Second Sunday of Advent: peace. God wants to give you the gift of restoration and wholeness. He offers Shalom! Receive His good gift.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – We often ask, “Where is God when it hurts?” Based on the book of Daniel, God asks, “Where are you when it hurts?” Even under great duress, Daniel and his friends demonstrate loyalty to God throughout the book. When it came time to stand, they stood firm. Daniel could have avoided the lions’ den. Instead, he chose loyalty. We can choose loyalty as well. Daniel’s loyalty to God influenced the…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Is God in charge or in control? The church’s great gift to our world. And handwriting on the wall of the Babylon palace. Once again, God gives Daniel the answer to the mystery. It’s not an answer anyone wants, but it’s a warning we all should heed.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – The church thrives despite challenges! I share a call to stand against government overreach threatening an alive church. We, as God’s people, must embrace our responsibilities, rise to His challenge, and seize this divine opportunity. Together, we defend the faith and embody the church’s mission. The Lord is with us—let’s step up with courage and conviction!
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – God is much more interested in solving our problems than punishing us for our nonsense. Even Nebuchadnezzar, a king with an enormous problem, discovered that God told the truth about him, acted justly toward him, and handled his problem appropriately. God will do the same for us if we heed his warning and change our lives. It’s called mercy. God has given us another opportunity to do right…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Research reveals that 32 million church-going Christians plan to sit out this election, despite a biblical responsibility to vote. With so many capable of influencing outcomes, this inaction affects our nation’s direction. Inspired by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, we’re reminded to stand firm in faith and fulfill our duty as believers.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – In a world where solid foundations seem to vanish, it’s vital to stand firm on the Solid Rock. Our liquid society drifts away from truth, but with courage and confidence in God, we can fulfill our responsibilities and make a difference. Let’s embrace common sense, stand boldly, and seek grace through Jesus.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – God calls us to live with unwavering faith and trust in His promises. When we are faithful, others will notice and begin to see the truth in their own lives. Our faithfulness is a powerful witness, revealing God’s truth to those around us. Embrace the grace of faithfulness and let it inspire others to see clearly.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – In life, we often look ahead with worry, seeking God’s help in tough times. Yet, true gratitude also means looking back, recognizing and thanking Him for past support. Developing confidence in God involves critical thinking and a renewed mind. Today, I reflect on how trusting and cooperating with Him strengthens my faith and resilience.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – We often take freedom for granted, but true freedom demands defense and understanding. Drawing from the story of God delivering His people from Egyptian slavery, we gather at Sinai to reflect on what this experience teaches us about God and freedom. We are challenged to develop a deeper, Sinai-inspired vision of freedom today.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – In a world full of anxiety and uncertainty about the future, Nebuchadnezzar’s story offers profound insight. His crisis of confidence highlights the deep need for answers that only God can provide. Through Daniel, God reveals His mysteries and shows us that we can put our fears aside and embrace the confidence He offers about the end of time.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – When an irresistible force meets an immovable object, contradictions arise. In the biblical encounters between King Nebuchadnezzar and the One True God, power and authority are tested. What happens when a faithful follower of Yahweh refuses to obey a king’s command? This sets the stage for a powerful lesson in faith, obedience, and divine supremacy.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – During Instant Sermon weeks, we think out loud about things that are on our minds. So, we consider why we vote for candidates that will lessen evil rather than good, even godly character candidates. How is Bible reading like medicine? How can we handle the barrage of politics? It’s too much! Why don’t pastors speak up about the moral and biblical issues we face?
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – I think most of us agree that we can and should follow the example of Jesus. After all Jesus lived a life of love and the Bible challenges us to a life of love. But what do we do when Jesus behaves in a way that at first seems less than loving? What do we do when Jesus makes an observation we are reluctant to make? Are we willing to recognize and identify people who are up to no good?
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Discover how Christ can displace worry and bring true peace. Explore the power of trust in God, as illustrated by the actions of Ohio State University football players. In a world filled with anxiety, God offers deliverance from our deepest fears. Embrace the promise of freedom from worry by trusting in His plan for your life.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – In our country, love is something we do, not just a feeling. The recent Florida election results are in, sparking reflection on the moral state of our nation. A major political party now openly promotes free abortions, a shocking moral outrage. Also, assurance of salvation is a growing concern—discover the biblical answer to this modern anxiety.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – In a world where free speech faces constant challenges, there’s a deeper gift we often overlook: forgiveness. God offers this gift to everyone, yet we struggle to accept it. When we extend forgiveness to others, we embrace the freedom and grace God intends for us. Will you accept this transformative gift today?
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Decision-makers often frustrate us with their choices. Understanding the difference between transactional and principled decision-making helps, even if we disagree with them. The mysterious figure of Melchizedek, with his Messianic connections, sheds light on biblical narratives and enriches our understanding of Jesus as part of the order of Melchizedek.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – In our current civilizational moment, we face a choice: renew our values or fall into decline. This reflection explores the deeper meaning of salvation—not just being saved, but experiencing restoration and hope for the future. By understanding what God wants to do for us, we can be saved from sin and embrace a life filled with purpose, commitment, and renewal.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – As Christians, should we leave the Old Testament behind? With so many commandments, can’t we just focus on the two Jesus gave us? The answer is no; the Old Testament remains God’s Word. Embracing both sets of commandments, we find purpose and transformation in our faith, living intentionally through the teachings of the entire Bible.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Thankfully, God intervened, and the assassin missed. How different the world would be today if God had not delivered us from evil. His providential help calls us to a renewed commitment. It’s time for us to increase our resolve and lessen our timidity. Freedom calls for responsibility that brings out the best in people. Hear and heed God’s call today!
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Merry Christmas. Yes, it’s Christmas in July! This week, we renew our hope with a reminder that Messiah came at Christmas. All around us, there is despair. But in us, there is hope because we know a righteous King came at Christmas and is coming again. So join us as we consider the prophecies predicting the coming of Messiah and, of first importance, why He came.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Do you have a God complex? Do you have a Make-a-God Kit? For most of us, the answer is a reluctant yes. This week’s program will help us simplify and expand our understanding of God and challenge us to love God and our neighbors. When we see that God is a community of love, we can more readily love God generously and our neighbors graciously!
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – The challenge of our times is not political: Republican v. Democrat, right v. Left. The challenge of our times is normal v. crazy; sane v. insane! The challenge for us is holy living or the depravity of sin. The question for us today: do you have absolute confidence in the trustworthiness of God?
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Join me in exploring the profound teachings of the Sermon on the Mount. Imagine God being our ultimate hope, delivering us from evil, and stretching us towards divine purpose. Envision a different world, where we become different people under a different King. I want to live in that neighborhood! Let’s embark on this transformative journey together.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Discover the incredible gifts God has for you—faith to trust Him, grace for salvation, and special abilities to build up His church. Embrace and develop these spiritual gifts to strengthen your church community. God needs your unique talents, and your church does too. Explore the five-fold church concept and find your role in God’s plan.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – So many people throw around the phrase “separation of church and state.” Too often, that idea is used to silence the church, the voice of God. Let’s think about what that phrase really means and how it applies to life today. Then, we’ll consider a Bible story about people demanding more government! They made a terrible mistake that we should avoid.
FAITH IS… We live in a world of lies where people use power to enforce their lies. How do we sort it all out? Jesus declared the Word of God is the truth. So, let’s listen to what God says and stretch toward His calling. Discover, develop, and use His gifts because the gifts are God’s call on your life. God tells us the truth. God gave us the truth. God is the truth…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – On this Memorial Day weekend, we remember the great price paid for our liberty. We celebrate with picnics and a car race, embracing the freedom given by God and faithful men and women. Listening to Jesus’ words to Nicodemus, we recognize the mysterious reality of being born again. What a weekend of spiritual and political freedom!
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – William Wilberforce changed the world. Or perhaps we should think of it as God raised William Wilberforce to change the world. What’s he calling you to accomplish? If God is calling, the question is never, “Can I?” The question is always, “Will I?” Pentecost reminds us that God gives us the power to accomplish his purposes…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Would you rather be ruled by power or truth? And yes, that choice matters! What is a sacrilege? We witnessed a recent sacrilege. Did you notice? Will you vote for the candidate that will lessen evil? When you think of Jesus’ return, are you fearful or full of eager anticipation? I say, “Come, Lord Jesus. We’re ready!”
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Something is up with all these student protests. There’s more going on than we can see right now. We need to be aware and wary. Something good is happening in Massachusetts. Churches are stretching toward God and helping children. Our turn! Finally, if we are going to love God and our neighbors, we need to know what God means by that love. God has the right idea, and we need to live out his ideal…
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – So many things need our attention these days. We need to protect free speech and our children from Social Emotional Learning. We need to cultivate regular church attendance and support family-friendly and faith-inspiring entertainment. The pursuit of love, the love of God, develops the attitudes and behaviors that stretch us in God’s direction. Pursuing Christlikeness is the pursuit of virtue. It’s the antidote to this age of anxiety.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – We used to hear, “If it feels good, do it.” Now, people just do what feels good without hesitation or even a second thought. Too many of us are dominated by our feelings. The good news . . . we don’t have to live under the tyranny of our feelings! All of that plus stretching in God’s direction, a letter from Australia, a movie with an Australian connection, and solid evidence to support church attendance.
FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – We’ve heard people say truth or consequences. Other times, people remind us we can make our choices, but we can’t choose our consequences. Except in one case. In one sense, you can choose your consequences. Repent and revel in the consequences! What a life! So make the U-turn of repentance. Turn to God.
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