Sincerely Yours

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-419_jun25-18.mp3 The love of God not only fills to overflowing... it naturally splashes over on everyone around it. And it does something else. It “infuses” the bearer with lasting strength, purity and confidence. In this Sincerely Yours devotional podcast, explore the greatest love of all as we continue our journey in the third chapter of the book of first Thessalonians. Today's Reading 1 Thessalonians 3 (NIV) 3 So when we could stand it no longer, we thought it best to be left by ourselves in Athens. 2 We sent Timothy, who is our brother and co-worker in God’s service in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, 3 so that no one would be unsettled by these trials. For you know quite well that we are destined for them. 4 In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. And it turned out that way, as you well know. 5 For this reason, when

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-418_jun22-18.mp3 We’re looking into the second chapter of the book of First Thessalonians and you don’t get very far into this book before noticing that Paul’s main theme is the second coming of Christ. What does this hope mean to the world in general, and just as important, how does it affect our personal lives? What do we do while we’re waiting? That's what we're looking at in this Sincerely Yours devotional podcast. Today's Reading 1 Thessalonians 2:1-20 (NIV) Paul’s Ministry in Thessalonica 2 You know, brothers and sisters, that our visit to you was not without results. 2 We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition. 3 For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. 4 On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-417_jun21-18.mp3 Another stepping-stone on our journey through the New Testament is the book of First Thessalonians. Written by Paul as a letter to the church in Thessalonica, its main purpose was two-fold to encourage the believers and answer a few questions they had since his last visit. It's an admirable commendation... to be known as someone whose character is obviously strengthened with “Godly” steel. And, as we'll learn in this episode of Sincerely Yours, that comes only through a personal relationship with Jesus. Today's Reading 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 (NIV) 1 Paul, Silas and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace and peace to you. Thanksgiving for the Thessalonians’ Faith 2 We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. 3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labour prompted

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-416_jun20-18.mp3 It’s long been speculated that bad eyesight caused Paul to have to dictate his letters for someone else to write. That’s why, on the odd occasion that Paul personally penned a message, we usually pay closer attention. Out of anything Paul could’ve personally and painstakingly chosen to write in his own handwriting, it's his message in our reading today that caught my attention, “Remember my chains.” Explore this cryptic message in this Sincerely Yours devotional podcast. Today's Reading Colossians 4:1-18 (NIV) 4 Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair because you know that you also have a Master in heaven. Further Instructions 2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3 And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. 4 Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I shoul

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-415_jun19-18.mp3 As we’re continuing our journey through the book of Colossians, we find the Apostle Paul going through what resembles a laundry list of instructions on living a God-honouring life. From the relationship of a husband and wife to that of a parent and child, he covers practical tips for living that, if followed with humility and love, will result in a life well-lived. Today's Reading Colossians 3:18-25 (NIV) Instructions for Christian Households 18 Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. 20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. 21 Fathers,[a] do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. 22 Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favour, but with sincerity of heart and reverence

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-414_jun18-18.mp3 When it comes to remembering hurt, forgiveness has a very short memory. That’s exactly what the Apostle Paul is emphasizing in our reading for today. Paul is continuing to give practical advice for Godly living. He’s very straight-forward in his language when he says we need to put to death things such as sexual immorality, greed, lying, anger, rage, malicious behaviour, slander, and dirty language. And then Paul turns a corner. Listen in as we explore on this Sincerely Yours devotional podcast. Today's Reading Colossians 3:1-17 (NIV) Living as Those Made Alive in Christ 3 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear wit

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-413_jun15-18.mp3 In Jesus are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. He revealed the mystery of God because Jesus was God in human form. And as we come to Him, Jesus will reveal to us the deep things of God. Continue our journey through Colossians on this episode of Sincerely Yours and learn why there is no mystery to finding the greatest Treasure of all. Today's Reading Colossians 2 (NIV) 2 I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. 2 My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. 5 For though I am absent from you in body, I am pre

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-412_jun14-18.mp3 As Paul continues his letter to the church of the Colossians, he is mindful that false teachers are successfully deceiving some in their group as to the identity of Jesus, reducing His status from Supremely Divine… to simply delightful… an impressive man, but surely no more than that. This was a serious diversion from the Truth and, for this reason, Paul had to be direct and uncompromising in his language. We'll unpack his remarks on this episode of Sincerely Yours. Today's Reading Colossians 1:15-29 (NIV) The Supremacy of the Son of God 15 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is th

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-411_jun13-18.mp3 God’s truth is unwavering. That is precisely what Paul wrote the next letter in our journey through the New Testament to his friends the Colossians. But where is the bridge between man and God? Many people try to “bluff” their way through a convincing explanation, but God’s answer is simple. And we'll explore that answer in this Sincerely Yours devotional podcast. Today's Reading Colossians 1:1-14 (NIV) 1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 To God’s holy people in Colossae, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ: Grace and peace to you from God our Father. Thanksgiving and Prayer 3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people— 5 the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven and

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-410_jun12-18.mp3 Our reading today closes out the book of Philippians. In the first half of this chapter, we noted that Paul is focusing his words of encouragement toward that “unseen battleground of the mind.” He reminded us that as we bring our concerns to God, He will give His perfect peace to stand guard over our minds. But in the following verses, Paul is quick to note that this promise from God does not absolve us of all responsibility. Find out why on this episode of the Sincerely Yours devotional podcast. Today's Reading Philippians 4:10-23 (NIV) Thanks for Their Gifts 10 I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have l

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-409_jun11-18.mp3 When you think about it, all worry says is that we don’t really believe that God can look after the practical details of our lives. It causes us to focus on “what” we fear rather than “Who” we know. That’s why “knowing” Jesus through His Word and prayer is so very important. As we’re looking into the fourth chapter of the book of Philippians, we find Paul focusing on the unseen world of the mind. Let's explore it in this Sincerely Yours devotional podcast. Today's Reading Philippians 4:1-9 (NIV) Closing Appeal for Steadfastness and Unity 4 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! 2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Cle

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-408_jun08-18.mp3 We’re looking into the third chapter of the book of Philippians.  Although it is a short book, spanning only four chapters, Philippians contains some of the best-known, most widely-quoted passages in the entire Bible. And it's here where we'll find some important life lessons about forgetting the past and "the prize" God offers for our future. Today's Reading Philippians 3:1-21 (NIV) No Confidence in the Flesh 3 Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. 2 Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh. 3 For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— 4 though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the fl

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-407_jun07-18.mp3 It’s been said that success isn’t defined by the outcome, but by the journey. And so it is in our walk with God. It’s a journey filled with highs and lows, yes, but it’s crucial we not miss the point. In this Sincerely Yours podcast, we'll digest a huge reminder from the Apostle Paul and unpack how we can apply it to our lives to bring about brighter days. Today's Reading Philippians 2:10-30 (NIV) 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,     in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,     to the glory of God the Father. Do Everything Without Grumbling 12 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-406_jun06-18.mp3 In the second chapter of the book of Philippians, Paul continues to uplift his beloved friends in Philippi, encouraging them to strive to be like Jesus in every area of their lives. The apostle Paul says things like "forget yourself" and "put yourself aside." Sounds nice, but over the long haul, not very realistic. So, how do we do this? Well, that's what we're going to look at in this Sincerely Yours devotional podcast. Today's Reading Philippians 2:1-18 (NIV) Imitating Christ’s Humility 2 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit,if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-405_jun05-18.mp3 It’s in Philippians chapter one that the prisoner, Paul, wrote what has been referred to as his “joyful letter.” That in itself should give us pause. But then we come to verse 29 and Paul’s words literally stop us cold,"There’s far more to this life than trusting in Christ. There’s also suffering for Him." In this episode of Sincerely Yours, we're going to unpack that statement and see how it plays out in the Christian life. Today's Reading Philippians 1:20-30 (NIV) 20 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is be

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-404_jun04-18.mp3 Today marks the beginning of a journey into another one of Paul’s letters to the original believers, this time to the church in Philippi. It’s been said that “Philippians” is not only brimming with practical living advice, it’s Paul’s happiest letter, revealing the depth of affection he shared with the Philippian believers. Let's explore some of these inspiring truths in this episode of Sincerely Yours. Today's Reading Philippians 1:1-19 (NIV) 1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: 2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Thanksgiving and Prayer 3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he w

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-403_jun01-18.mp3 You don’t have to watch the news for long to realize that the rulers of the darkness of this age are all around us, both obvious and subtle. Fortunately, according to the Apostle Paul, when facing down evil, we are NOT alone. As we’re wrapping up the 6th chapter of the book of Ephesians in this Sincerely Yours podcast, Paul closes this letter to his friends with some of the best-known encouragements in all of Scripture. Today's Reading Ephesians 6:10-24 (NIV) The Armor of God 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day o

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-402_may31-18.mp3 What comes to your mind when you think of the word “Dad”? Author Roger Thompson reported that in Ramsey County, Minnesota, grades 9 and 10 students were asked this same question. Answers came immediately from both ends of the spectrum. From reflections of “kindness, security, and safety,” to the words “angry, mad, and absent.” “Dad” is a powerful word and an even stronger influence. So it is no wonder that as we look into the book of Ephesians, the Apostle Paul specifically addressed the role of a father. Listen to this Sincerely Yours devotional as we unpack today's reading. Today's Reading Ephesians 6:1-9 (NIV) 6 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—3 “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” 4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, brin

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-401_may30-18.mp3 Marriage isn’t easy... it takes work. With the pace of life getting faster by the minute, it seems that some things just naturally fall through the cracks. Unfortunately, for many, it’s their relationship. It simply takes time to build a good marriage. Time and a Christ-centered attitude. Learn why that's so important when you listen to this Sincerely Yours devotional podcast. Today's Reading Ephesians 5:15-33 (NIV) 15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise,16 making the most of every opportunity because the days are evil.17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord,20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the na

http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/p/fst.mc.tritondigital.com/SINCERELY_YOURS_P/media/SY-400_may29-18.mp3 As we’re reading through Ephesians chapter 5, we find the Apostle Paul clearly warning against the filthy contamination that has corrupted man from the beginning. But all is not lost. We have not been left, helpless and diseased, without hope of being made well. Listen in as we explore on this Sincerely Yours devotional podcast. Ephesians 5:1-14 5 1 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolate