Today is a day of celebration and transition, as many are graduating and stepping into new seasons of life. But with every new step, fear often tries to creep in, paralyzing us and making us question, “What if I fail? What if I’m not enough?” Yet, God’s plan for each of us is not to be held captive by fear, but to move forward in faith, trusting that His presence is with us every step of the way. Fear is a natural response, but it does not have to control our actions or our destiny. Every day, in big and small ways, we are all “graduating”—moving from one stage to another, overcoming old struggles, and stepping into new callings. Looking at the story of Moses and the Israelites at the Red Sea, we see how fear can tempt us to retreat to what is familiar, even if it means going back to bondage. God’s instruction is to “stand still”—to set aside our emotions, get out of our heads, and listen to what He is saying in our hearts. Head knowledge is valuable, but it is the presence of God within us that truly guides and sustains us. Our primary calling is not just to do things for God, but to be with Him, to live out of His presence, and to let His Spirit flow through us like a river. Ezekiel’s vision of the river reminds us that God’s presence is not stagnant; it is a living, moving current that brings life wherever it flows. The question is not whether we have seen the river, but how deep we are willing to go. Are we content to just get our ankles wet, or will we allow ourselves to be carried by the current of God’s Spirit, even when it means facing the unknown? The difference between being paralyzed by fear and being mobilized by faith is found in how much of God’s presence we allow to fill and lead us. Throughout Scripture, those who broke through fear—Bartimaeus, the woman with the issue of blood, the leper who returned, David facing Goliath—experienced breakthrough and transformation. God is like a refiner, holding us in the fire just long enough to purify us, never taking His eyes off us, waiting until He can see His reflection in our lives. Our greatest need is not a perfect plan, but a deep relationship with Him, allowing His Spirit to move us from fear to faith, from paralysis to purpose. Key Takeaways - Fear is inevitable, but it does not have to dictate our decisions or our future. The enemy uses fear to paralyze us, but God calls us to recognize fear without letting it control us. Every step forward in faith is a victory over the “what ifs” that try to hold us back. [01:47] - When facing overwhelming situations, God’s first instruction is to “stand still.” This means setting aside our emotions and anxieties, getting out of our heads, and listening for God’s voice in our hearts. True direction comes not from logic alone, but from a heart attuned to His presence. [06:49] - Our identity and worth are not rooted in what we do, but in who we are in God’s presence. Even when our roles or abilities change, our primary calling is to dwell in His presence and let His Spirit flow through us. This is the foundation for a life that is mobilized, not paralyzed. [10:39] - The depth of our experience with God’s Spirit is a choice. Like Ezekiel, we can choose to stay in the shallow waters or allow ourselves to be carried by the current of God’s river. The more we surrender to His presence, the more we are empowered to face fear and move forward in faith. [16:52] - God refines us through trials, never taking His eyes off us, using the heat of life’s challenges to purify us until His reflection is seen in us. The process may be intense, but it is always purposeful, leading us to greater freedom, faith, and fruitfulness as we trust Him through the fire. [31:06] Youtube Chapters [00:00] - Welcome [01:47] - Fear and the “What Ifs” [04:26] - The Israelites at the Red Sea [06:49] - Standing Still and Setting Emotions Aside [07:49] - Living from the Heart, Not the Head [08:40] - Our True Calling: God’s Presence [10:39] - Identity Beyond Performance [14:01] - The River of God’s Presence [15:45] - Going Deeper: Ezekiel’s Vision [16:52] - Have You Really Seen? [20:52] - Choosing Your Depth in God [23:04] - Stepping Out in Faith [25:01] - Cooperating with God’s Current [27:04] - Running Toward, Not from, Fear [28:49] - The Refiner’s Fire [31:06] - God’s Reflection in Us [33:01] - Prayer and Surrender to God’s Presence [35:52] - Closing and Invitation for Prayer Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving Send us a direct message if you would like one-on-one prayer.

Highest Praise 9am weekend service! Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving On this special Mother’s Day, we gather to celebrate not just mothers, but all women who nurture, care, and stand in the gap for others. The heart of today’s reflection is a question that God placed deep within: “Is there not a cause?” This question, drawn from David’s story in 1 Samuel 17, challenges us to consider the purpose and mission God has given each of us, especially when we face giants that seem insurmountable. David, the least likely among his brothers, was chosen and empowered by God not because of his strength or status, but because of his heart and obedience. In the same way, God has placed His Spirit within each of us, equipping us with what we need to face the battles in our lives and in the lives of those we love. We live in a world where fear, passivity, and a lack of faith can paralyze us, just as they did the army of Israel. The giants we face—whether they are cultural pressures, personal struggles, or challenges within our families—often seem overwhelming. Yet, like David, we are called not to shrink back, but to remember who we fight for and who fights with us. The world may urge us to become cultural rather than biblical, to accept the status quo, or to be distracted by causes that do not matter. But God calls us to stand for what is right, to restore Him to His rightful place in our homes and hearts, and to fight for the next generation. Obedience to God sometimes means climbing mountains we would rather avoid, as Abraham did with Isaac. It means using whatever God has placed in our hands, no matter how small it seems, trusting that He will bring the victory. Our children and grandchildren need to see us trust God, to see Him intervene, and to know that the battle belongs to the Lord. We are not just daughters of earthly parents, but daughters of the living God, clothed in strength and dignity, empowered to overcome every obstacle. God has given us everything we need to conquer the giants before us—not for our own glory, but so that all will see His glory and be drawn to Him. Let us be encouraged, stand firm, and walk in the power and purpose God has given us. Key Takeaways - God often chooses and empowers the least likely among us, not because of our qualifications, but because of our willingness to trust and obey Him. Like David, we may feel overlooked or inadequate, but God has placed His Spirit within us to accomplish His purposes in our families and communities. Our sense of belonging and worth comes from Him, not from the world’s standards. [03:16] - The giants we face—fear, passivity, cultural pressures—are relentless, but they are not greater than the God who fights for us. When we allow fear or a lack of faith to dictate our actions, we risk losing sight of our true purpose and the mandate God has placed on our lives. Courage is not the absence of fear, but the decision to act in faith, knowing God is with us. [08:32] - Obedience to God requires movement, even when the path is difficult or unclear. Abraham’s willingness to climb the mountain and lay Isaac on the altar demonstrates that God’s intervention often comes after our obedience, not before. Our children and those around us need to witness our faith in action, so they too can see God’s faithfulness. [20:13] - God has uniquely equipped each of us with gifts and tools that may seem insignificant, but in His hands, they are powerful enough to overcome any obstacle. Whether it’s a skill, a word of encouragement, or a simple act of faith, what we have is enough when surrendered to God. The key is to use what He has given us, trusting that He will bring the victory and receive the glory. [28:02] - Restoration and victory begin when we allow God to reveal the true causes of our struggles and invite Him into every area of our lives. We must not be afraid to face hard truths about ourselves, our families, or our circumstances, because God’s purpose is always for our good and His glory. When we stand in faith and obedience, we not only recover what was lost, but we become a testimony to those around us of God’s power and love. [28:52] Youtube Chapters [00:00] - Welcome [00:54] - Honoring Women and Mothers [02:06] - The Question: Is There Not a Cause? [03:16] - David’s Background and Our Identity [07:04] - Facing Giants: Fear and Passivity [11:28] - Growing Accustomed to the Enemy’s Voice [14:27] - Knowing Who Fights With Us [16:35] - The Power of Purposeful Women [20:13] - Abraham’s Obedience and God’s Intervention [22:06] - Our True Identity as Daughters of God [25:25] - Using What God Has Given Us [26:14] - Empowered to Overcome [27:03] - The Importance of Standing Firm [28:02] - What Has God Placed in Your Hands? [28:52] - Allowing God to Reveal and Restore [30:26] - Prayer for Empowerment and Obedience

Highest Praise 9am weekend service! Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving Isaiah 43:18-19 calls us to “forget the former things” and not dwell on the past, because God is doing a new thing—something that springs up even now, if only we have eyes to perceive it. Life often tempts us to drift into neutral, letting circumstances, seasons, or the opinions of others dictate our direction. But God has given us the gift and responsibility of choice. We are not at the mercy of our environment; we are called to stand on God’s promises, to choose life, and to walk in His will, not just for ourselves but for the generations that follow. Letting go of the past is essential. Forgetting doesn’t mean erasing memories, but refusing to let them control our present or future. Our past—good or bad—can become so familiar that it feels safer than the unknown future God is calling us into. Even our best days can become a trap if we believe that’s as good as it gets. But God never consults our past to determine our future. His grace and mercy are greater than our failures and our successes. The past can teach us, but it must never mentor us; only God’s promises and presence should guide us forward. God is not just interested in giving us second chances; He delights in new beginnings. He is forming and making something new in us, often through uncomfortable seasons that require trust and patience. Like the Israelites, we must learn to number our days—not just counting time, but assigning purpose and meaning to each day, recognizing that today is an assignment from God. Consistency and faithfulness in the present open the door to the wonders God wants to do in our future. The “new thing” God is doing is not always about changing our circumstances, but about transforming us from the inside out. It’s the same job, the same family, the same church—but a new heart, a new spirit, a new perspective. We must learn to perceive, recognize, and declare what God is doing, aligning our words and faith with His promises. When we do, we step into the fullness of what He has prepared, no longer bound by the past, but advancing into the newness of life He offers. Key Takeaways - **You are not at the mercy of your circumstances; God has given you the power to choose.** Life will always present challenges, but you are not called to simply react to what happens around you. Instead, you are empowered to stand on God’s promises and intentionally choose His way, regardless of external pressures. This is a daily act of faith that shapes not only your life but the legacy you leave for others. [02:51] - **Forgetting the past means breaking its influence, not erasing its memory.** The past—whether filled with pain or nostalgia—can easily become the lens through which we view our future. God calls us to “forget” by refusing to let the past dictate our decisions, emotions, or identity. True freedom comes when we let God’s promises, not our history, have the final say in our lives. [05:39] - **God never consults your past to determine your future.** No matter how many years of disappointment or failure you’ve experienced, one “yes” from God can overturn a lifetime of “no’s.” His plans for you are not limited by your history; His grace is sufficient to bring about new beginnings that defy human logic and expectation. [14:17] - **God’s new thing is often about transforming you, not just your situation.** We often look for God to change our circumstances, but His greatest work is making us new from the inside out. The same environment can become a place of purpose and blessing when God renews your heart, perspective, and faith. Embrace the forming process, even when it’s uncomfortable, because it’s preparing you for what’s ahead. [28:03] - **Perceiving and declaring God’s promises activates His power in your life.** It’s not enough to hear about God’s new thing—you must recognize it, agree with it, and speak it over your life. When your words align with God’s Word, faith is activated and the atmosphere shifts. Stop rehearsing the problems and start declaring the promises, and you’ll see God move in ways you never imagined. [31:17] Youtube Chapters [00:00] - Welcome [01:10] - Introduction to Isaiah 43:18-19 [02:51] - Living Beyond Neutral: The Power to Choose [05:00] - God’s Focus on Generations [08:13] - The Trap of Nostalgia and the Enemy’s Lies [11:09] - The Voice of the Past vs. The Voice of Promise [13:07] - Sarah’s Laughter: When God’s Yes Overcomes Years of No [16:09] - God is Making a Way: The Process of Formation [24:05] - Consistency and Trust in the Present [26:56] - Joshua’s New Season: Same Place, New Person [28:03] - Transformation from the Inside Out [30:37] - Perceiving and Declaring God’s Promises [32:49] - Worship as Agreement with God’s Word [36:04] - Closing and Prayer Ministry

Highest Praise 9am weekend service! Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving We reflect on the significance of Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, a moment that fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah and marks the beginning of a pivotal week in Christian history. The people of Jerusalem welcomed Jesus with palm branches and garments laid on the road, a gesture of honor and praise. This act of worship, using what they had, reminds us that God values our sincere offerings, no matter how simple they may seem. The crowd's praise was not just for the miracles they had witnessed, but also for the hope and salvation Jesus represented. The story of Jesus riding on a colt, a symbol of purity and newness, speaks to us today. It reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of their past or perceived inadequacies. Just as the colt was chosen for a divine purpose, we too are called to serve in God's kingdom. This Palm Sunday, we are encouraged to praise God with what we have, laying down our burdens and offering our lives as a testament to His glory. The Pharisees' discomfort with the people's praise highlights a critical truth: genuine worship challenges the status quo and threatens the control of those who seek to suppress it. Our praise is a powerful weapon against the enemy, signaling that he is losing his grip on us. The presence of Roman soldiers and the Antonia fortress serve as a metaphor for the spiritual battles we face. Yet, Jesus' focus was not on confronting the external oppressors but on cleansing the temple, emphasizing the importance of internal transformation and true worship. As we reflect on this narrative, we are reminded that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead resides within us. This power enables us to overcome any obstacle, fear, or challenge. Our praise is not just a response to what God has done but a declaration of faith in what He will do. Let us embrace this truth and live boldly, knowing that greater is He who is in us than he who is in the world. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Use What You Have:** The people of Jerusalem used palm branches and garments to honor Jesus, teaching us that God values our sincere offerings, no matter how simple. Our praise should come from the heart, using whatever resources we have to glorify Him. [11:56] 2. **God Can Use Anyone:** The colt, never ridden before, symbolizes purity and readiness for God's purpose. This reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of their past or perceived inadequacies, for His divine plans. [18:30] 3. **Praise as a Weapon:** Genuine praise challenges the status quo and threatens the enemy's control. Our worship is a powerful weapon that signals the enemy's defeat and strengthens our faith. [21:13] 4. **Internal Transformation:** Jesus' focus on cleansing the temple rather than confronting external oppressors emphasizes the importance of internal transformation and true worship. Our spiritual battles are won through heart change and sincere devotion. [24:15] 5. **The Power Within Us:** The same power that raised Jesus from the dead resides within us, enabling us to overcome any obstacle. Our praise is a declaration of faith in God's power and promises, reminding us that we are more than conquerors. [34:48] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [00:30] - Introduction to Palm Sunday - [01:15] - The Triumphant Entry - [02:45] - Prophecy Fulfilled - [04:00] - The Significance of the Colt - [05:30] - Using What We Have - [07:00] - The Power of Praise - [08:45] - Internal Transformation - [10:30] - The Role of the Pharisees - [12:00] - The Antonia Fortress - [14:00] - Jesus Cleanses the Temple - [16:00] - The Power Within Us - [18:00] - Conclusion and Prayer - [19:30] - Closing Remarks and Invitation for Prayer

In John 6, we find Jesus during the time of Passover, a period rich with spiritual significance. As Jesus attempts to retreat for rest, a great multitude follows Him, drawn by the miracles He performed. Despite His own need for rest, Jesus is moved by compassion for the crowd. He poses a question to Philip, "Where shall we buy bread that these may eat?" This question is not born out of ignorance but is a test of faith. Jesus already knows what He will do, but He uses this moment to teach His disciples about reliance on divine provision. Philip, overwhelmed by the practical impossibility of feeding such a large crowd, looks to human resources, checking their financial capacity. This reflects a common human tendency to rely on our own understanding and resources when faced with overwhelming needs. However, Jesus is teaching a deeper lesson: the needs of the world are unlimited, but so is God's provision. The miracle of feeding the 5,000 with five loaves and two fish illustrates that when we bring what little we have to Jesus, He can multiply it beyond our imagination. The story also highlights the importance of spiritual order. Jesus instructs the crowd to sit in groups, demonstrating that divine order precedes divine provision. This order is not just about physical arrangement but about aligning our lives with God's will, creating space for His glory to manifest. Ultimately, the miracle points to a greater truth: Jesus is the Bread of Life. While physical needs are met temporarily, spiritual needs require a lasting solution. Jesus offers Himself as the eternal sustenance, the answer to every spiritual hunger. As believers, we are called to introduce others to this Bread of Life, ensuring they find not just temporary relief but eternal satisfaction in Christ. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Divine Testing and Faith Building:** Jesus often places us in situations that test our faith, not because He needs our help, but to strengthen our trust in His provision. When faced with overwhelming needs, we must remember that Jesus already knows what He will do and invites us to rely on Him. [13:14] 2. **Unlimited Needs, Unlimited Provision:** The world's needs are endless, but God's provision is limitless. As Christians, we must recognize that while we cannot meet every need, we serve a God who can. Our role is to bring what we have to Jesus and trust Him to multiply it. [24:12] 3. **The Importance of Spiritual Order:** Before God performs a miracle, He often brings order to chaos. This principle applies to our spiritual lives as well; when we align ourselves with God's will, we create an environment for His glory to manifest. [27:09] 4. **Jesus as the Bread of Life:** Physical sustenance is temporary, but Jesus offers eternal satisfaction. He is the Bread of Life, and our deepest needs are met in Him. As believers, we are called to introduce others to this eternal sustenance. [30:40] 5. **Listening to the Right Voice:** In moments of doubt, we must choose to listen to the voice of faith rather than the voice of fear. Jesus reminds us of our identity in Him and calls us to trust in His promises, even when circumstances seem impossible. [13:14] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [00:45] - Setting the Scene: Passover and the Multitude - [02:30] - Jesus' Compassion and the Test of Faith - [04:15] - Philip's Dilemma: Human Resources vs. Divine Provision - [06:00] - The Unlimited Needs of the World - [08:20] - The Miracle of Multiplication - [10:45] - Spiritual Order Precedes Divine Provision - [13:14] - Faith in the Face of Impossibility - [15:30] - Jesus as the Bread of Life - [18:00] - The Role of Believers: Introducing the Bread of Life - [20:45] - Listening to the Right Voice - [24:12] - Gathering the Fragments: Lessons in Abundance - [27:09] - The Eternal Solution to Spiritual Hunger - [30:40] - Conclusion: Trusting in Jesus' Unlimited Supply - [32:00] - Closing Prayer and Blessing

Confidence is a vital component of our spiritual journey and daily life. It is the backbone of every victory, and without it, defeat is inevitable. Confidence in God is rooted in our faith and courage, as illustrated in 1 John 5:14, which assures us that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. This confidence is not just a feeling but a profound trust in God's promises and His word. The Bible is filled with stories of individuals who demonstrated unwavering confidence in God, such as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who stood firm in their faith despite facing a fiery furnace. Their confidence was not in their strength but in God's ability to deliver them. Confidence is defined as faith on the inside and courage on the outside. It is the assurance that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us, as stated in Philippians 4:13. This confidence is not arrogance but a humble assurance in God's power and promises. It is a weapon of war, an indispensable instrument in the battle of life and destiny. When we walk in confidence, we are not swayed by the opinions of others but are anchored in what God says about us. The presence of God is crucial for maintaining confidence. Psalm 23:4 reminds us that even in the valley of the shadow of death, we need not fear because God is with us. Walking in His presence gives us the home-field advantage, where we are surrounded by His support and encouragement. Confidence is also linked to living righteously, as Proverbs 28:1 states that the righteous are bold as a lion. When we live right, we can approach God with boldness and find help in our time of need. Ultimately, our confidence is in the grace of God, which acts as a safety net beneath us. This grace does not make us careless but more confident and efficient in our walk with God. It assures us that even when we stumble, God's grace will catch us and set us back on solid ground. As we walk in this confidence, we are empowered to be the salt and light in the world, preserving and flavoring a dying world with the hope and love of Christ. **Key Takeaways:** 1. Confidence is essential for victory in life and is rooted in our faith and courage. It is not just a feeling but a profound trust in God's promises and His word. Without confidence, we are defeated before the battle even begins. [15:09] 2. The presence of God is crucial for maintaining confidence. Walking in His presence gives us the home-field advantage, where we are surrounded by His support and encouragement. This presence assures us that we are never alone, even in the darkest valleys. [20:08] 3. Confidence is linked to living righteously. When we live right, we can approach God with boldness and find help in our time of need. Righteousness gives us the boldness of a lion, enabling us to face life's challenges with assurance. [24:15] 4. Our confidence is in the grace of God, which acts as a safety net beneath us. This grace does not make us careless but more confident and efficient in our walk with God. It assures us that even when we stumble, God's grace will catch us and set us back on solid ground. [27:01] 5. Confidence is a weapon of war, an indispensable instrument in the battle of life and destiny. It is not arrogance but a humble assurance in God's power and promises. When we walk in confidence, we are not swayed by the opinions of others but are anchored in what God says about us. [32:05] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [00:30] - Introduction to Confidence - [02:15] - Confidence in Scripture - [04:45] - The Importance of Confidence - [07:30] - Biblical Examples of Confidence - [10:00] - Definition of Confidence - [12:30] - Confidence in God's Presence - [15:09] - Confidence in Adversity - [18:00] - Living Righteously with Confidence - [20:08] - Confidence as a Weapon - [24:15] - The Role of Grace in Confidence - [27:01] - Confidence in Daily Life - [30:00] - Overcoming Fear with Confidence - [32:05] - Confidence in God's Promises - [34:01] - Conclusion and Prayer

We are visiting Joshua 14:9, focusing on the story of Caleb and the importance of wholehearted obedience to God. Caleb's life exemplifies how obedience to God creates a destiny, as he wholly followed the Lord and was able to inherit the land promised to him. This narrative reminds us that everyone is following something or someone, and our obedience shapes our destiny. Caleb's story is a powerful testament to the importance of staying close to God, not just in proximity but in obedience and dedication. We explored the idea that many Christians live a life of partial obedience, which can lead to full disobedience. This half-hearted approach to faith is not sustainable and can lead to spiritual stagnation. The message emphasized that conviction from the Holy Spirit is a call to draw closer to God, not a condemnation. When we are closest to Jesus, we are safest, just as Caleb was able to inherit his promise because of his obedience. Furthermore, we discussed the significance of consistency in our walk with God. Caleb's consistency over 45 years, holding onto God's promise, is a model for us. Consistency in our faith and actions is crucial for inheriting God's promises. We must remain steadfast, even when faced with giants or challenges, as these are often indicators that we are in the right place, fulfilling God's will. Finally, we addressed the need to confront the giants in our lives. Giants represent anything that stands between us and God's promises. Caleb's story teaches us that we must not settle for living in the shadows of these giants but instead confront them with the strength and promises of God. Just as David confronted Goliath with the word of the Lord, we too must use God's word as our script to overcome the challenges we face. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Wholehearted Obedience:** Caleb's life teaches us that wholehearted obedience to God creates a destiny. Our obedience shapes our future, and when we follow God closely, we are safest and most aligned with His will. This obedience is not about perfection but dedication and proximity to Jesus. [06:16] 2. **Partial Obedience Leads to Disobedience:** Living a life of partial obedience can lead to full disobedience. A half-hearted Christian life is unsustainable, and the enemy uses this to lead us away from God. Conviction from the Holy Spirit is a call to draw closer to God, not a condemnation. [09:27] 3. **Consistency in Faith:** Caleb's consistency over 45 years is a model for us. Consistency in our faith and actions is crucial for inheriting God's promises. We must remain steadfast, even when faced with challenges, as these are often indicators that we are in the right place, fulfilling God's will. [18:35] 4. **Confronting Giants:** Giants represent anything that stands between us and God's promises. We must not settle for living in the shadows of these giants but instead confront them with the strength and promises of God. Just as David confronted Goliath, we must use God's word as our script to overcome challenges. [26:53] 5. **The Power of God's Word:** Our relationship with God's word gives us the ability to inherit His promises. It shapes our character, attitude, and heart, enabling us to walk into what God has for us. Success without God is hollow, and we must prioritize our relationship with Him to achieve true success. [24:01] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [03:05] - Introduction to Caleb's Story - [06:16] - Wholehearted Obedience - [09:27] - The Danger of Partial Obedience - [12:43] - Following God or the Enemy - [15:19] - Caleb's Consistency - [18:35] - The Importance of Consistency - [21:02] - Consistency in Family and Faith - [24:01] - The Power of God's Word - [26:53] - Confronting Giants - [31:32] - David and Goliath: A Lesson in Confrontation - [33:31] - The Enemy's Consistency - [35:21] - The Strength of Consistency - [40:23] - Closing Prayer and Encouragement

In today's message, we explored the powerful story of Caleb from Joshua 14, focusing on the theme "Give Me This Mountain." Caleb's journey is a testament to the importance of maintaining a heart of faith and perseverance, even when faced with long periods of waiting and adversity. At 85 years old, Caleb's faith remained as strong as it was 45 years earlier when he first received God's promise. This unwavering faith is a reminder that the promises of God are sustained in our hearts long before they manifest in our lives. The heart is central to our spiritual journey. Proverbs 4:23 teaches us to guard our hearts, as everything we do flows from it. Caleb's story illustrates that before we can physically possess God's promises, we must first hold them in our hearts. A guarded heart is essential to living a God-given life, as it protects us from discouragement, offense, and doubt. These are the enemies that can prevent us from inheriting what God has planned for us. Discouragement is a silent killer of faith, often arising during the waiting period between God's promise and its fulfillment. It is crucial to guard against it by ensuring that our relationship with God remains our primary focus, rather than the promise itself. Similarly, offense can derail our journey if we allow it to take root. Caleb's ability to forgive and not hold grudges against those who delayed his promise is a powerful lesson in maintaining a healthy heart. Doubt is another obstacle that can hinder our faith. Caleb's declaration, "Give me this mountain," was rooted in the certainty of God's promise. Faith is not about placing God's name on our desires but believing in what God has spoken over our lives. Without a word from God, faith is impossible, but with it, nothing is impossible. As we reflect on Caleb's story, we are encouraged to hold on to God's promises with a guarded heart, free from discouragement, offense, and doubt. By doing so, we can confidently say, "Give me this mountain," knowing that God is faithful to fulfill His word. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Guard Your Heart:** The heart is the throne of our emotions and decisions. Everything in life flows from it, so we must guard it diligently to live a God-given life. A healthy heart sees God's goodness in every situation, while an unhealthy heart is clouded by past hurts and doubts. [07:35] 2. **Overcome Discouragement:** Discouragement can paralyze faith, especially during long waiting periods. We must ensure that our relationship with God remains our priority over the promises we seek. This focus helps us grow stronger in faith rather than allowing discouragement to take root. [14:32] 3. **Forgive to Avoid Offense:** Holding onto offense gives others control over our story. Caleb's ability to forgive those who delayed his promise teaches us to release offense and not let it dictate our lives. Forgiveness is essential to maintaining a healthy heart and receiving God's promises. [23:28] 4. **Faith Over Doubt:** Faith is rooted in God's word, not in our imaginations. Without a word from God, faith is impossible, but with it, nothing is impossible. Caleb's faith in God's promise allowed him to claim his mountain, teaching us to hold onto God's word with certainty. [32:44] 5. **Persevere in Faith:** Like Caleb, we must persevere in faith, even when the journey is long. Discouragement, offense, and doubt are obstacles we must overcome to see God's promises fulfilled. By guarding our hearts and holding onto God's word, we can confidently claim the promises He has for us. [38:53] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [01:00] - Introduction to Caleb's Story - [03:15] - The Importance of a Guarded Heart - [07:35] - Heart as the Throne of Emotions - [10:55] - Overcoming Discouragement - [14:32] - The Silent Killer of Faith - [18:37] - Guarding Against Offense - [20:33] - Forgiveness and Writing Your Story - [23:28] - Relational Transitions and Offense - [27:07] - Daily Forgiveness and Obedience - [30:01] - Outlasting Offense and Doubt - [32:44] - Faith Rooted in God's Word - [34:43] - Living by Faith, Not Sight - [38:53] - Perseverance in Faith - [41:20] - Conclusion and Prayer

Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving In today's gathering, we explored the profound significance of being planted in the house of the Lord, as inspired by Psalm 92:13-14. This scripture emphasizes that those who are rooted in God's house will flourish and continue to bear fruit, even in old age. The church is not just a building; it is a sacred assembly where believers come together to worship, learn, and minister to one another. It is a place where we experience the presence of God, and through our collective worship and service, we can change the spiritual atmosphere of our community. The church serves multiple purposes: it is a place of worship, a center for teaching and instruction in the Word of God, and a community where we minister to each other. It is also a platform for anointed preaching and teaching, which helps us grow in our faith and understanding. The church provides a credible witness to the community, showcasing the love and power of Jesus Christ. By being planted in the church, we allow God to work in our lives, leading to personal and communal breakthroughs. We also reflected on the story of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana (John 2). This miracle illustrates the importance of obedience and doing things to the fullest measure. Just as the servants filled the water pots to the brim, we are called to serve God wholeheartedly. When we do so, we open ourselves to the full measure of God's blessings and joy. Being planted in the church is not just about attending services; it's about being part of a community that seeks to embody God's character, nature, and heart. It is about allowing God to plant His desires in our lives, leading to spiritual growth and transformation. As we remain rooted in the church, we will flourish and experience the fullness of God's promises. **Key Takeaways:** - **The Importance of Being Planted:** Being planted in the house of the Lord means being rooted in a community of believers where we can grow spiritually and bear fruit. This rootedness allows us to flourish and experience God's blessings in our lives. [27:01] - **The Church as a Place of Worship and Instruction:** The church is a place where we gather to worship God and learn from His Word. It is essential for our spiritual growth and understanding, helping us discern between the world's messages and God's truth. [29:21] - **Changing the Spiritual Atmosphere:** By being part of a local church, we contribute to changing the spiritual atmosphere of our community. Our collective worship and service provide a credible witness to the power and love of Jesus Christ. [33:15] - **Obedience and Fullness of Blessing:** The story of Jesus turning water into wine teaches us the importance of obedience and doing things to the fullest measure. When we serve God wholeheartedly, we open ourselves to the full measure of His blessings and joy. [35:36] - **Experiencing God's Presence:** The church is where we experience the presence of God, His character, nature, and heart. By being planted in the church, we allow God to work in our lives, leading to personal and communal breakthroughs. [39:36] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [01:30] - Celebrating Together - [03:45] - The Importance of Being Planted - [06:20] - The Church as a Place of Worship - [09:10] - Teaching and Instruction in the Word - [12:00] - Ministering to One Another - [15:30] - Anointed Preaching and Teaching - [18:45] - Credible Witness to the Community - [22:00] - Changing the Spiritual Atmosphere - [25:15] - The Story of the Wedding at Cana - [28:30] - Obedience and Fullness of Blessing - [31:45] - Experiencing God's Presence - [35:00] - Flourishing in God's House - [38:15] - Closing Prayer and Blessing