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The 2024 results of the American Psychiatric Association’s annual mental health poll show that U.S. adults are feeling increasingly anxious. In 2024, 43% of adults say they feel more anxious than they did the previous year, up from 37% in 2023 and 32% in 2022. Adults are particularly anxious about current events (70%) — especially the economy (77%), the 2024 U.S. election (73%), and gun violence (69%).When asked about a list of lifestyle factors potentially impacting mental health, adults most commonly say stress (53%) and sleep (40%) have the biggest impact on their mental health. Younger adults (18-34 years old) are more likely than older adults (50+) to say social connection has the biggest impact on their mental health. Despite the increasing anxiety, most adults have not sought professional mental health support. In 2024, just one in four (24%) adults say they talked with a mental health care professional in the past year. Notably, younger adults (18-34) are more than twice as likely as older adults (50+) to have done so.Effective treatment for general anxiety and anxiety disorders often involves a thoughtful blend of therapy, medication, counseling, and empowering self-help strategies for comprehensive support and well-being.Christians typically respond to anxiety by turning to prayer, meditating on scripture, and actively choosing to cast their worries and anxieties onto God, trusting in His ability to provide peace that surpasses understanding, as outlined in Philippians 4:6-7: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."&nbsp;The Cure for Anxiety, if you have given your life to Jesus, and trust in the Word of God, can be found in Matthew 6: 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life[e]? 28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."It’s perfectly fine to seek guidance from physicians when faced with medical challenges. We support and encourage you to do so. However, as Christians, we must remember the importance of seeking divine help from God through His Word and our faith In matters of both physical and mental health, we should always complement our medical treatments with heartfelt prayer, embracing the support of our faith alongside professional care. <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Together, they can lead us towards healing and wholeness!

How to Deal with Anxiety as a Christian

One of the most harmful interpretations of prosperity teachings is when Isaiah 53: 5-12 specifically the phrase “by his stripes we are healed,” is taken out of context and presented as a promise of complete physical healing, even divine health in this life.In light of the many misunderstandings propagated by unqualified voices in Christian circles, it’s important to clarify that Isaiah 53:5 represents primarily the profound spiritual healing available through salvation, stemming from Christ’s redemptive sacrifice. This vital truth is further reinforced in 1 Peter 2:24, emphasizing the transformative power of His work in alleviating our sins.Peggy Knoth, from <a data-mce-href="Coastministry.com" href="Coastministry.com">Coastministry.com</a> prepared a cheat-sheet of sorts, an outline, to point out the references to sin in Isaiah 53:VERSE 5 1. “pierced for our transgressions” 2. “crushed for our iniquities” VERSE 6 3. “All…have gone astray” 4. “Turned—to his own way” 5. “Iniquity of us all” VERSE 8 6. “stricken for the transgression” 7. “transgression” VERSE 10 8. “An offering for guilt” VERSE 11 9. “He shall bear their iniquities” 10. “Iniquities” VERSE 12 11. “Numbered with the transgressors” 12. “Bore the sin of many” 13. “The transgressors”As you see on her cheet-sheet of sorts, there is no mention of physical healing or the sick. Yet more than a dozen times, Isaiah refers to “sin.”The impact of these misleading teachings can significantly affect those experiencing pain, and I genuinely empathize with those struggling due to this harmful misconception. It is crucial for men of God to address these misunderstandings, as their efforts can greatly enhance awareness and provide meaningful support for individuals navigating their challenges in life.While we often hope for physical healing, it's important to recognize that God's will may lead us down different paths. A heartfelt prayer and unwavering faith are powerful, yet healing may not always manifest in the way we expect. Often, God bestows blessings that offer comfort and strength in other forms, reminding us that His wisdom and compassion guide us uniquely.God is capable of and does heal today according to His divine will. We see our prayers answered but in every situation, we should thoughtfully consider what God desires: Is His plan to heal the individual in this life, or does He seek to reveal His glory through our challenges? Ultimately, a future awaits where sickness and death will be no more (see Revelation 21:4). Meanwhile, the profound healing of our hearts from sin is a daily miracle that God graciously performs.If you are suffering with health related issues, we want to pray for you. Please submit your prayer requests today and we will lift you up in prayer to our Heavenly Father.May the amazing grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, the love of God and the presence of the Holy Spirit be with you.In His love,ray

"By His Stripes we are healed."

Immanuel is a Hebrew name meaning "God with us." It is derived from the Hebrew words "Immanu," meaning "with us," and "El," meaning "God."The name Immanuel is prominently mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Isaiah. In Isaiah 7:14, the prophet Isaiah foretells the birth of a child to be called Immanuel as a sign to King Ahaz and the people of Judah of God's presence amidst impending turmoil: "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." This prophecy was delivered during a time when Judah faced threats from surrounding nations. The name signifies assurance that God would be with the people during their trials.In the New Testament, the name Immanuel is associated with Jesus Christ. Matthew 1:22-23 references Isaiah's prophecy and identifies Jesus as the fulfillment of this promise, symbolizing the divine presence in the world through Jesus' incarnation and ministry.In contemporary Christian theology, Immanuel underscores the belief that God is accessible and present in believers' lives through the person of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. This name is often invoked in liturgy and hymns to reinforce the concepts of God's proximity and personal relationship with humanity. It offers comfort and hope, suggesting that individuals are never alone in their struggles, as God is perpetually with them.Immanuel serves as a reminder of God's promise to be present in every moment, inviting believers to notice divine activity in their daily lives. This emphasis on God's presence can inspire acts of compassion, community building, and deepened spirituality as expressions of "God with us." How does the understanding of God as "Immanuel" alter your perception of divine presence in times of personal challenges or uncertainty? Reflect on an experience where you felt accompanied by this sense of "God with us."

Friday's Names of God Series - Immanuel

Embrace Salvation through Faith and Confession“Today’s exploration is centered on Romans 10:9, a verse that speaks powerfully about the core of Christian faith and the path to salvation. By engaging with this scripture, you're taking a significant step toward understanding the depth of God's grace and the transformative power of declaring Christ as Lord. Let's delve into how this verse can reshape your spiritual journey, deepen your faith, and guide your actions.”1. Read &nbsp;"Because if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9 (ESV)The book of Romans, authored by the Apostle Paul, is a profound theological treatise outlining the gospel of righteousness by faith. Chapter 10 focuses on the righteousness that comes by faith, emphasizing that salvation is available to everyone who believes. This verse highlights the simplicity and accessibility of the gospel—salvation through faith in Jesus Christ—and serves as a clarion call to both Jews and Gentiles in the Roman church, encouraging them to embrace Christ’s gift of grace.2. Examine Key Message: Romans 10:9 articulates the fundamental Christian confession—that Jesus is Lord and faith in His resurrection assures salvation. It underscores the importance of both inner belief and outward confession, reflecting a heart transformed by faith and a life committed to Christ.Connection to Jesus: Jesus Himself taught about the power of faith and confession throughout His ministry. His resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith, confirming His victory over sin and death. Embracing Jesus as Lord aligns us with His teachings and promises, inviting us into a transformational relationship with Him.Main Themes- Confession: The act of openly declaring Jesus as Lord, reinforcing the public profession of faith.- Faith in Resurrection: Belief in Jesus’ resurrection is central to Christian faith, symbolizing victory over sin and assurance of eternal life.- Salvation: The promise of salvation through faith and confession highlights God's redemptive plan.Key Word Study"Confess" (Greek: homologeō) means to agree, admit, or declare openly. This indicates an active, public acknowledgment of Jesus' lordship. &nbsp;"Believe" (Greek: pisteuō) implies not just intellectual assent but trust and reliance on God's promise and power.3. Apply &nbsp;Reflective Questions: &nbsp;- Do I truly believe in my heart that Jesus is Lord, and how does this belief shape my daily life? &nbsp;- How can I be more intentional in confessing my faith in my words and actions? &nbsp;- In what ways am I showing trust in Jesus’ resurrection, especially during challenging times?Real-Life Application: &nbsp;- Personal Confession: Identify an aspect of your life where confession has been absent. Purposefully share with someone this week why Jesus is Lord in your life.- Strengthen Belief: Focus on one area where you struggle with doubt. Spend time in prayer and study to reaffirm your belief in God’s promises.- Public Faith: Seek an opportunity in a conversation to share your faith story, reflecting your commitment to Christ’s lordship.Real-Life Example: Consider a person who embraces this verse by speaking boldly about their faith during a difficult life decision. Their testimony inspires those around them, leading others to explore their own beliefs and consider the transformative power of faith in Christ.4. Pray &nbsp;Heavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. I confess that Jesus is Lord, and I believe in my heart His resurrection power. Forgive me for times I have been silent or absent in my confession. Strengthen my faith, so it burns brightly in my heart and is spoken boldly from my lips. Help me to live each day under Your lordship, reflecting Your grace and truth in all I do. Fill me with Your Spirit as I walk in this truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Closing Reflection: “Imagine your heart as a spring of life-giving water, refreshed by the truth of Christ’s resurrection. As you go forth today, let your confession of faith be like a stream flowing from your heart—inviting others to experience the joy of salvation.”Call to Action: Today, actively share one thing that God has done in your life with someone who may not know Him. Let your testimony be a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ.

R.E.A.P. Report for Romans 10:9 / Salvation through Faith & Confession

The little God movement has become established in the church despite its obvious contradiction to the Bible.The "little gods" teaching represents a concerning misinterpretation of Scriptures that strays from biblical truth, primarily promoted by several prominent "pastors" within the Word of Faith movement. It claims that humans, especially Christians, embody a divine essence, which inaccurately positions them as "little gods." This belief significantly undermines the essential distinction between Creator and creation, and it is crucial to approach such teachings with discernment and a commitment to the foundational principles of our faith.The Little Gods doctrine is an intriguing popular concept. It suggests that we, particularly as Christians, possess divine qualities—essentially viewing ourselves as “gods” with a small “g.” This belief underscores the incredible power of our words, which can shape our reality much like the Word of God does. Phrases such as “name it and claim it” or “blab it and grab it” capture this inspiring idea of manifesting our desires through positive declaration.Teachers of this doctrine claim that the Holy Spirit has imparted this revelation to them directly. It is important to remember that the Holy Spirit is also the author of the Bible, and would never convey a message to anyone that contradicts Scripture.&nbsp;The Bible clearly emphasizes that God is the only infinite, sovereign, and all-powerful being. As stated in Isaiah 45:5, "I am the LORD, and there is no other; besides me, there is no God." While human beings are wonderfully created in God's image (Genesis 1:27), this does not imply that we are divine or “little gods.” Rather, reflecting God’s image signifies that we embody certain aspects of His character, such as rationality, morality, and the ability to connect with one another. It’s essential to acknowledge that we are finite, fallible, and fundamentally reliant on God. When we refer to ourselves as "little gods," we inadvertently place ourselves on par with the Almighty, which reflects a concerning level of arrogance and self-adulation. This idea is certainly not novel; it echoes the serpent's deceptive words to Eve in the Garden, suggesting, "You will be like God" (Genesis 3:5). Let's remember the importance of humility and the wisdom that comes from acknowledging our place in the grand design and celebrate our unique reflection of Him with gratitude and humility! &nbsp;

The "Little Gods" Word of Faith Heresy

<h3>&nbsp;&nbsp; Discover the Power of Persistent Prayer</h3>"Congratulations on your dedication to exploring God’s Word through Matthew 7:7. This verse invites you into a deeper relationship with God, emphasizing the strength and assurance found in prayer. Let’s delve into its meaning and uncover how it can enrich your daily walk with1. Read &nbsp; “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7 (ESV)Matthew 7:7 is often misunderstood; it does not promote the prosperity gospel. Instead, it's part of the profound Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus provides valuable insight into achieving righteousness. Here, He emphasizes that while we are encouraged to ask, the focus is on our spiritual growth and alignment with God's will. This sermon is a beautiful guide, inviting us to seek meaning and purpose in our requests, trusting that they align with a higher plan.Understanding this allows us to truly grasp the meaning of verse 7. What should we request to receive? The context consistently emphasizes that our ultimate aim is genuine righteousness that stems from the heart (Matt. 5:6, 10, 20; 6:1, 33). We should wholeheartedly seek to emulate Jesus! Our request should focus on growth in the areas he has illuminated in previous verses. What are we pursuing that we shall find? We are in search of Jesus! And what will be made known to us? His righteousness, a precious gift that transforms our lives!2. Examine &nbsp; Key Message: The verse teaches the importance of persistent and expectant prayer. It assures believers that God is attentive and generous in answering when they reach out in faith, seeking His guidance and wisdom. This promise reflects God's character as a loving Father eager to respond to His children.Connection to Jesus: Jesus perfectly modeled a life of prayer, frequently withdrawing to seek the Father’s guidance. He taught His disciples the Lord’s Prayer, emphasizing asking God for daily needs. By doing this, Jesus highlighted the importance of relying on heavenly resources and trusting in God’s provision.Main ThemesPersistence in Prayer: Encourages a continuous and active engagement in seeking God. &nbsp;Faith and Assurance: Reassures believers of God’s readiness to answer their needs. &nbsp;Divine Generosity: Reflects God's willingness to bless His children beyond their requests.Key Word Study: "Ask" (Greek: aiteō): Implies a continuous action of requesting with an expectation of a positive response. It suggests an openness to receive from God, trusting His faithful provision.3. Apply &nbsp; Reflective Questions: Where in my life do I need to more persistently seek God’s guidance? &nbsp;How can I increase my faith to trust God’s timing and answers to my prayers? &nbsp;In what specific area of my life can I expectantly knock on God’s door today?Real-Life Application: Make a list of specific prayers or needs in your life and commit to praying for them daily for a month. Observe how God answers or guides you through these concerns. Invite accountability by sharing your prayer journey with a trusted friend who can support you in keeping this spiritual habit. &nbsp;Embrace a small change of seeking God first in your daily routine, such as starting your day with prayer, ensuring that you look to Him before any significant decision.Example: Consider a student facing anxiety about future career choices. By applying persistent prayer, the student continuously asks God for clarity and peace, seeking His guidance and knocking on new opportunities in faith. Through this active engagement with God, the student experiences peace and eventually lands in a role where they can serve others and grow spiritually.4. Pray &nbsp; Dear Heavenly Father, I praise You for being attentive and generous, always ready to listen to my prayers. I confess that I sometimes lack persistence and faith in seeking You. Please strengthen my faith to trust in Your perfect timing and plans for my life. Help me to come to You with openness, ready to receive Your guidance and provision. Empower me to depend on Your wisdom daily and to have faith that You will answer my prayers according to Your will. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.Closing Reflection: "Imagine God’s love as an ever-open door in front of you. Each time you knock, He joyfully invites you in to receive His blessings and guidance. As you move through today, approach God with a heart full of expectation and faith, knowing that He delights in responding to you."Call to Action: Today, take a moment to intentionally pray over one area of your life where you desire change or guidance. Trust in God’s promises as you continue to seek, ask, and knock with faith and perseverance.

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How to Deal with Anxiety as a Christian

"By His Stripes we are healed."

Friday's Names of God Series - Immanuel

R.E.A.P. Report for Romans 10:9 / Salvation through Faith...

The "Little Gods" Word of Faith Heresy

R.E.A.P. for Matthew 7:7, an often exploited Scripture