Psalm 8 In this episode - part of our Praying the Psalms series - we take a look at Psalm 8 and consider how Prayer & Praise is the strength of God's people.

Psalm 5 As we prepare for a new preaching series that will focus on using the Psalms as a guide to our prayers, we put this into practice using Psalm 5. Here we are led to meditate on the Lord's title of "King and God". As well as what separates those who are unable to dwell with God from those who enter His home. We also learn to pray for God's protection over us, but ponder our motivation for doing so.

James 1:21 Wickedness causes chaos, confusion, and conflict in every relationship we have. Too often we try to resolve the symptoms of wickedness through our own strength, thinking that we can change people and situations. But here in James 1 we are reminded that only God's word can truly bring about the righteousness that leads to peace. And in order to enjoy the fruit His word grows in us, we must be willing to listen - really listen - to what it says. Here in James 1:21 we learn that teachability is the key to godliness.

Psalm 32 Many believers find it difficult to pray, either making the time to pray OR knowing what to pray. On this episode we talk about how a personal "21 days of prayer" can help you establish godly habits. And how the Psalms offer us a beautiful guide on what to pray. We use the example of Psalm 32 to pray about forgiveness of sins, a softened heart, and deliverance from what binds us.

Colossians 2:9-10 Why should we give ourselves to a routine of prayer & fasting? Certainly there are many biblical answers to this, including mere obedience. But scripture also shows us the promise of reward that comes with setting aside our normal schedule & pursuing Jesus. One of those rewards is that we will grow in power when we pray. So, wait - we fast & pray so that we can become more fruitful when we fast & pray? Yes!! Join us on this episode of the podcast as we think through this idea together.

Colossians 4:2 Join us as we talk about this year's month of prayer at Agape church, which will begin on September 3rd. What is it, why do we do it, and how can you participate?

Colossians 1:15-20 One of the great gifts of life is to have access to a mentor who loves you and works to fill you with knowledge and help you navigate the challenges of a responsibility, career, or interest that you have taken on. It is that type of access that gives you peace in your frustrations, calms your anxiety, and makes your advancements that much more rewarding. In Colossians 1 we read one of the most majestic passages about Jesus in all of scripture. There we learn that everything in creation is sourced in, responsible to, and held together by Jesus. And when we realize that this same Jesus calls for us to come and abide with him, learn from him, and get our help from him - this changes everything about our often confusing and challenging life.

James 2:8, Colossians 1:16 In the 1950's in Birmingham, Alabama ordinances were signed into law that prevented people of different races from assembling together - even for normal activities such as eating or playing. This stands in stark contrast to the Royal Law of Love established by God: "Love your Neighbor as yourself". Today we still find ourselves tempted to judge others by some external attribute - whether race, economics, politics, or personal preference. The church must embrace this Royal Law, as we consider the commonality

Colossians 1:9 In Colossians 1 we see several mentions of Paul and other leaders praying for the church. Here we learn about the type of prayers, the timing of the prayers, and the subject of the prayers going up for Colossae. This serves as a model for all of us. Each member of a local church should see it as part of their ministry to pray for the church and its members. Certainly some of those prayers should be for practical needs and concerns. But more than that, we should be praying for one another's spiritual needs and asking for each one to be filled with God's knowledge, understanding, and wisdom.

Epaphras is called a "faithful Minister of Christ" on behalf of the Colossians. Often we think about church leaders as the Ministers who are called to be faithful. While that is true, the rest of the story is that we have all been called into a ministry. Not only called, but Christ has placed us in certain people's lives, certain careers, certain churches that we would do specific good works that glorify Him. It is important that we view our lives in this way and also that we continually abide with Jesus that he might make us grow more and more faithful.