Episodios

  • The Last Appeal – A Death Row Redemption Story - Inspired by Zechariah 3

    The Last Appeal – A Death Row Redemption Story - Inspired by Zechariah 3
    Feb 27 2025

    In the final moments before his execution, Joshua sits in his cell, awaiting the inevitable. The weight of every crime, every sin, every wrong of a nation has been placed on his shoulders. His accuser watches gleefully as the gallows await. But just as the noose tightens around his fate, an unexpected turn shifts his destiny.

    This is a story of justice, mercy, and an unthinkable last-minute appeal. When the courtroom becomes a battleground between condemnation and grace, who will have the final say?

    Join us for a gripping narrative of fear, judgment, and redemption in The Last Appeal – A Death Row Redemption Story.

    Almost in F - Tranquillity by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100394

    Artist: http://incompetech.com/
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    14 m
  • Embracing Brokenness

    Embracing Brokenness
    Feb 10 2025
    Music Attribution: Almost in F - Tranquillity by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100394Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Despair and Triumph by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1400012Artist: http://incompetech.com/ There’s something about agreement. We can’t walk together without agreeing on a direction. And the cool thing is that today, when we come into the house of the Lord, we have agreement in the faith with our brothers and sisters. The Lord is moving in our hearts, and the Holy Spirit is working in us, bringing us into alignment with the direction He wants to take us. But sometimes, that agreement becomes an excuse or a crutch. We come in here, we find that agreement, and then we go back out and live our lives outside these four walls. And then, guess what? Next week, we come back—broken again. Over and over, it’s a cycle. We come, we find agreement in the Spirit, and then we leave again. And then we come back again, still broken. But God wants us to live in agreement with Him beyond Sunday mornings. He doesn’t just want us to be filled while we’re here; He wants us to be filled with His truth continually. And the amazing thing about being filled with God’s truth is that it’s an eternal deposit. Think about it like an arcade. Have you ever been to an arcade and spent all your quarters on one of those old-school games? You drop a quarter in, you get to play for a little while, and then you run out of quarters. So what do you do? You go back to your parents and beg for more quarters, or you dig through your pockets for any spare change. And when that runs out, you’re done. Game over. But with God’s truth, it’s not like that. It’s not a temporary thing that runs out when we leave church. When God deposits His truth in us, it’s endless. It’s not just for us—it’s for others too. Instead of scrambling for more quarters, we get to deposit truth into the lives of the people around us. Into the brokenness of those out there, or even into each other, within the fellowship of the body of Christ, to encourage and uplift one another. So, if you came today thinking you were going to hear a flowery message—one that’s all peaches and roses—you might have to wait until the end. Because the truth is, this isn’t an easy message. It’s going to challenge us. It’s going to ask us to think about what it really means to come broken before God. There are things I’d like to share with you, but first, let’s set the stage. Psalm 147:1-6 says: "Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and a song of praise is fitting. The Lord builds up Jerusalem; He gathers the outcasts of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. He determines the number of the stars; He gives to all of them their names. Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; His understanding is beyond measure. The Lord lifts up the humble; He casts the wicked to the ground." Did you catch that? He gathers the outcasts. He heals the brokenhearted. God is like the ultimate physician, bringing us into His infirmary and caring for our souls. Think about how many stars there are—billions upon billions—and yet God has named each one. That’s the power, the understanding, and the care of our God. If He takes the time to name every single star in the universe, how much more does He know your name? How much more does He care about your broken heart? Now, another passage that speaks to brokenness is Matthew 5:1-11—The Sermon on the Mount. Jesus didn’t stand up there and say, “Alright, I’m about to deliver The Sermon on the Mount.” That’s just what we call it. But listen to how He opens: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Now, let me ask you—is it easy to be merciful? Not really. Is it easy to be pure in heart? That’s a battle every day. Is it easy to be a peacemaker? Definitely not, especially in a world that loves conflict. Is it easy to be persecuted? No way. But here’s what Jesus is saying: I’m calling you to be broken. As the Lord calls us into His house today, He’s calling us, first of all, to be broken and humble in ...
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    31 m
  • Dana & Matt - Open Discussions about Philippians

    Dana & Matt - Open Discussions about Philippians
    Feb 2 2024

    This episode is an open discussion between Matt, my pastor, and myself about our study in Philippians.  I hope you find it encouraging!
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    44 m
  • Psalm 127, Colossians 1:24-27, Giving All to God.

    Psalm 127, Colossians 1:24-27, Giving All to God.
    Jan 29 2024

    Can you give all to Almight God?  Unless the LORD builds the house, you labor in vain.
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    22 m
  • Philippians Study - Day 20 - Philippians 4:14-12 - Gospel Partnerships

    Philippians Study - Day 20 - Philippians 4:14-12 - Gospel Partnerships
    Jan 26 2024

    Hello, fellow seekers of truth and believers in the power of God's Word! It's Dana from Rock Solid Journals, and I'm excited to share the final episode of our Philippians study, marking day 20 of this incredible journey. As we wrap up this series, I want to reflect on the profound lessons and insights we've gained together.

    Throughout this study, we've walked hand-in-hand, Pastor and I, through the pages of Philippians. We've written it out, contemplated its meaning in our own words, prayed through it, and earnestly sought to understand what God is telling us. Today, I'm not just delivering a podcast; I'm extending a heartfelt thank you for engaging with the Word, for embracing the Lord through His teachings.

    Let's dive into the concluding verses of Philippians, specifically 4:14-23. Paul, in his unique and inspired way, expresses gratitude to the Philippians for their unwavering support in his ministry. It's not merely about material gifts; it's about the spiritual fruit that blooms in partnership with God. As I read these verses, let me share my personal reflections, musings, and the whispers of God that I've encountered.

    In My Own Words:

    In my own words, I see Paul expressing gratitude to the Philippians for bearing his burdens, understanding his history, and standing as the sole church that partnered with him in ministry. There's a beauty in their genuine care, reaching out even when no one else did. The offering wasn't just a transaction; it was a fragrant offering, a pleasing sacrifice to God.

    As I reflect on this, I'm reminded that God's provision surpasses human giving. It's not about the gift itself but the heart behind it, a heart that seeks to partner with God in His mission. Gifts given in our own power are not what God desires. He wants our obedience, guided by conviction from Him.

    Reading between the lines of Paul's journey, I'm challenged to be obedient in my giving and in partnering with others in the gospel. Whom is God calling me to support, encourage, or uplift? It's a personal and intimate journey, a journey of obedience that strengthens the body of Christ.

    And then, there's the beautiful irony in Paul's situation – imprisoned, yet reaching Caesar's household with the gospel. It's a powerful reminder that God's power transcends earthly power. It encourages me to recognize that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. It sparks a commitment to strengthen the body of Christ, even in challenging circumstances.

    Personal Prayer:

    In my personal prayer, I couldn't help but think about a dear sister struggling to raise support for mission work overseas. Her challenges echo the difficulties in finding gospel partners. My prayer revolves around her, asking God to open her eyes to see that her partnership is with Him, instilling boldness and unwavering confidence as she continues in His calling.

    Conclusion:

    As we conclude this series on Philippians, let's remember that no person can give greater than God. Let's embrace conviction, obedience, and the tremendous opportunity we have in yielding to God's will. Paul, in prison, reached the powerful Caesar's household, showcasing that God's power is truly unmatched.

    May this podcast be a form of obedience, strengthening each of you as you hear the truth of God's Word. Together, let's continue to be faithful servants, partnering in the mission of Christ, and strengthening the body of Christ through our generous spirits.

    Feel free to share your insights, reflections, or any thoughts with me at dana@rocksolidjournals.com. Let's keep the conversation going. Until next time, have a blessed day, and may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
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    20 m
  • Philippians Study - Day 19 - Philippians 4:10-13 - Be Content

    Philippians Study - Day 19 - Philippians 4:10-13 - Be Content
    Jan 25 2024
    Welcome to another day of our journey through Philippians! Today, we're diving into Philippians 4:10-13, where Paul shares a profound secret about contentment. As we explore these verses, let's unravel the insights, reflect on the meaning, and draw inspiration for our spiritual walk.   Philippians 4:10-13 – The Secret of Contentment Paul begins by expressing his joy in the Lord for the Philippians' revived concern for him. He acknowledges their care, even though they had limited opportunities to express it. What follows is a powerful declaration of contentment in any circumstance. Paul unveils the secret he has learned: the ability to face plenty and hunger, abundance, and need, all through the strength provided by Christ.   In My Own Words: Unpacking the Passage In my own words, I summarized Paul's message, emphasizing the joy he found in the Philippians' concern and his contentment in every situation. The focus shifts to the secret of contentment, which lies in Christ's strength. This insight challenges us to rethink our understanding of the well-known phrase, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me."   Avoiding Secondhand Faith: Wrestling with Scripture The discussion emphasizes the importance of wrestling directly with Scripture rather than relying solely on commentaries. The method involves writing out the passage, paraphrasing in one's own words, and engaging in prayerful reflection. The goal is to cultivate a firsthand understanding of the Word, allowing God to speak directly to the individual.   Prayerful Reflection: The Path to True Contentment The reflection delves into a prayerful dialogue, pondering whether true contentment can only come from Jesus. The question arises: does God get frustrated when we seek abundance in the world rather than finding contentment through His Son? The prayer seeks guidance on being faithful with physical abundance, understanding that possession is an illusion, and recognizing that Jesus possesses us.   Discovering the True Source of Strength The reflection concludes by highlighting the revelation that true contentment can only come from Jesus. All goodness comes from God, and contentment is found through the gateway provided by Christ. The call is to lean into Jesus' strength, gripping the cross and allowing God to unlock the secret of contentment. The prayer closes with a plea for guidance in living in God's strength and resisting the allure of the transient world.   Closing Thoughts: Embracing the Secret of Contentment As we conclude our exploration of Philippians 4:10-13, the overarching theme is the unveiling of the secret of contentment. Paul's journey inspires us to find true satisfaction not in worldly abundance but in the strength provided by Christ. May these verses encourage you to lean into Jesus' strength, embrace contentment in all circumstances, and experience the transformative power of God's Word in your life.   May you walk in the joy of the Lord and find contentment through the unshakable strength of Christ. Have a blessed day!
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    20 m
  • Philippians Study - Day 18 - Philippians 4:8-9 - Focus on the Good

    Philippians Study - Day 18 - Philippians 4:8-9 - Focus on the Good
    Jan 24 2024
    Welcome back to our journey through Philippians! Today, we're delving into the rich insights of Philippians 4:8-9, where Paul addresses the Philippian church, urging believers to focus their thoughts and actions on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Let's unravel these verses and explore the transformative power they hold.   Philippians 4:8-9 – Dwell on the Good, Practice the Good In this segment, Paul emphasizes the importance of intentional thinking and purposeful action. He encourages believers to fix their minds on things that reflect God's goodness. These verses go beyond mere contemplation; they call for active engagement with the qualities that honor and glorify God.   In My Own Words: A Summation of Paul's Message In my own words, I expressed the essence of Paul's message. I emphasized the need for believers to dwell on thoughts that align with God's nature, practicing what they have learned, heard, received, and seen in Paul. The connection between thinking and doing becomes evident – a powerful combination for spiritual growth.   Dwelling on the Good and Practicing It The discussion further explores the dual nature of dwelling on the good and actively practicing it. The analogy of riding two different bicycles in opposing directions illustrates the absurdity of trying to live with one foot in each world. The key takeaway is that genuine faith requires action, not passive adherence, and that practicing what is good leads to transformative growth.   Prayerful Reflection: Yielding Everything to God The segment transitions into a heartfelt prayer, acknowledging the challenge of yielding everything to God. The prayer seeks God's guidance in embracing His plans, even when faced with uncertainties and the friction of resistance in the world. The plea is for the strength to lay aside personal plans and embrace suffering for the sake of Christ.   God's Goodness Requires Action The concluding remarks stress the necessity of action in response to God's goodness. Peace from God manifests itself in practice, and believers are urged not to waste this peace in the void of inaction. The call is to assess one's own position – whether in action or inaction, in practice or malpractice – and to focus on the goodness of God in the midst of anxiety and challenges.   Closing Thoughts: A Call to Embrace Transformation As we conclude this reflection on Philippians 4:8-9, the overarching theme is a call to embrace transformation through intentional thinking and purposeful action. Believers are encouraged to fix their minds on God's goodness, practice what they have learned, and allow the peace of God to guide their hearts. In doing so, they can navigate the challenges of life with faith, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose.   May these verses inspire you to dwell on the good and actively practice it, experiencing the transformative power of God's goodness in your life. Have a blessed day!
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    18 m
  • Philippians Study - Day 17 - Philippians 4:4-7 - Abolish Anxiety

    Philippians Study - Day 17 - Philippians 4:4-7 - Abolish Anxiety
    Jan 23 2024
    Welcome back to Rock Solid Journals! I'm Dana, and today marks Day 17 of our study in Philippians. We're diving into Philippians 4:4-7, exploring the culmination of ideas that bring revolutionary insights for the Christian faith. As we unravel these verses, we'll discover a formula presented by Paul to combat anxiety and embrace a spirit of thanksgiving. Philippians 4:4-7 – Rejoice, Be Reasonable, Do Not Be Anxious   The passage opens with a powerful exhortation: "Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice." Paul encourages believers to find their joy in the Lord continually. The subsequent verses instruct them to be reasonable with everyone, emphasizing that the Lord is near. Importantly, believers are urged not to be anxious but to replace anxiety with prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving.   In My Own Words: A Formula for Peace In my own words, I encapsulated the essence of these verses. Finding joy in the Lord and rejoicing in Him sets the tone. Being reasonable with all people and recognizing the nearness of the Lord curtails anxiety. The transformative formula Paul presents involves replacing anxiety with prayer and supplication, coupled with a thankful heart. This, Paul asserts, will result in a peace that surpasses understanding, guarding hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.   Digging Deeper: Unpacking the Formula The subsequent discussion revolves around the proposed formula. Rejoicing in the Lord implies acknowledging that all good things come from God. The call to not be anxious serves as a mindset shift, redirecting focus from worldly concerns to God's sovereignty. The key lies in the transformation of the heart through prayer and supplication infused with thanksgiving.   Personal Reflection: A Journey into Thanksgiving Prayer In a heartfelt reflection, I shared my personal experiences and struggles with anxiety. I urged listeners to consider the things that drive anxiety in their lives and ponder the transformative power of thanksgiving. I also acknowledged that, like many, I tend to dwell on negative feedback rather than focusing on the positive.   Prayer and Thanksgiving: A Shift in Perspective The heart of the discussion centered on prayer and thanksgiving. The formula Paul presents calls for a shift in perspective, where anxiety is replaced by a heart filled with gratitude. The act of thanking God even in the midst of stress and anxiety becomes a powerful tool for transformation.   Closing Thoughts: Finding Freedom in Thanksgiving As we conclude this reflection, I encouraged listeners to engage with Philippians 4:4-7 on a deeper level. The challenge is to embrace a thankful spirit before God in prayer, recognizing the transformative power it holds. I closed with a heartfelt prayer, seeking God's guidance and expressing gratitude for various aspects of life.   Conclusion: Embracing the Formula of Peace Philippians 4:4-7 presents a formula for peace – a journey from anxiety to gratitude. As we navigate the challenges of life, may we find solace in rejoicing in the Lord, being reasonable with others, and offering thankful prayers. In this formula lies the key to releasing anxiety and embracing a peace that transcends understanding. May your hearts be filled with thanksgiving, and may you experience the profound peace that comes from trusting in the Lord. Have a blessed day!
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    14 m