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Evening Scripture  Revelation, Chapter 21  Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars — they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. It had a great, high wall with twelve gates, and with twelve angels at the gates. On the gates were written the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. There were three gates on the east, three on the north, three on the south and three on the west. The wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. The angel who talked with me had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city, its gates and its walls. The city was laid out like a square, as long as it was wide. He measured the city with the rod and found it to be 12,000 stadia in length, and as wide and high as it is long. The angel measured the wall using human measurement, and it was 144 cubits thick. The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass. I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life. Evening Reflection From the beginning, God intended to make His home with humans. He walked with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. After the fall, though, His presence had to be modified since a holy God cannot live with sinful man. In the tabernacle and temple, He dwelt, living with His people and being their God. And when Jesus came to save the world from the curse of sin and death, He tabernacled among His creation as “God with us” (Matthew 1:23; John 1:14). His death and resurrection brought healing to the brokenness in humanity, bridging the chasm between man and God. In the future, Jesus will return and every promise will be fulfilled. The Lord God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – will again dwell with humankind. Finally, we will be at home with the One for whom we were made. As the prophet Ezekiel wrote, the eternal city will be known as “the Lord is there” (Ezekiel 48:35). Too often, though, we assume that when we go to the Lord at death, we will abandon the earth forever. Maybe that’s why so many of us struggle to think of eternity or to picture what it will be like to walk beside our Savior – we forget the great promises of Scripture. Our Lord came to us, God adding humanity to Himself to redeem humanity so that we could live forever with Him. The original plan was not scrapped; rather, it was made better, more complete. Eden restored and made new. The wonder of what it will mean to finally be at home with our Lord is difficult to fully comprehend. However, we can start anticipating its reality even now as we go about our days. What will it be like to eat a meal with God? To take a walk under trees with Him? To laugh and talk while making art or growing a garden? For in the New Heaven and New Earth, we will do these things––and more. Evening Prayer Renew my vision, Lord, for eternity. Scripture contains passages that fill me with wonder, but in my everyday life, I struggle to focus on what the future holds. The troubles and ordinary tasks cloud my sight, setting my attention only on the here-and-now. So, I pray, God, that You would increase my anticipation for Your return. The Bible describes that as the hope of the believer, and I want it to be mine. May I meditate on the coming day when You will make Your home with us in the new creation, wiping away every tear and banishing death forever. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.   Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Proverbs, Chapter 3 My son, do not forget my teaching,but keep my commands in your heart,for they will prolong your life many yearsand bring you peace and prosperity. Let love and faithfulness never leave you;bind them around your neck,write them on the tablet of your heart.Then you will win favor and a good namein the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heartand lean not on your own understanding;in all your ways submit to him,and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes;fear the Lord and shun evil.This will bring health to your bodyand nourishment to your bones. Honor the Lord with your wealth,with the firstfruits of all your crops;then your barns will be filled to overflowing,and your vats will brim over with new wine. My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline,and do not resent his rebuke,because the Lord disciplines those he loves,as a father the son he delights in.  Blessed are those who find wisdom,those who gain understanding,for she is more profitable than silverand yields better returns than gold.She is more precious than rubies;nothing you desire can compare with her.Long life is in her right hand;in her left hand are riches and honor.Her ways are pleasant ways,and all her paths are peace.She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;those who hold her fast will be blessed. By wisdom the Lord laid the earth’s foundations,by understanding he set the heavens in place;by his knowledge the watery depths were divided,and the clouds let drop the dew. My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight,preserve sound judgment and discretion;they will be life for you,an ornament to grace your neck.Then you will go on your way in safety,and your foot will not stumble.When you lie down, you will not be afraid;when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.Have no fear of sudden disasteror of the ruin that overtakes the wicked,for the Lord will be at your sideand will keep your foot from being snared. Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due,when it is in your power to act.Do not say to your neighbor,“Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you”—when you already have it with you.Do not plot harm against your neighbor,who lives trustfully near you.Do not accuse anyone for no reason—when they have done you no harm. Do not envy the violentor choose any of their ways. For the Lord detests the perversebut takes the upright into his confidence.The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked,but he blesses the home of the righteous.He mocks proud mockersbut shows favor to the humble and oppressed.The wise inherit honor,but fools get only shame. Evening Reflection Proverbs 3, verses 5 and 6, has long been my favorite passage of all of Scripture. Its truths cuts through the noise of this frenetic world we live in, and remind us what is involved with walking the pathway that God calls us to. Firstly, walking straight along God’s pathways is rooted in trust. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. I don’t know about you, but too often I try to reverse that order. I trust too much in my own understanding, and I lean not on God’s wisdom or direction. But the life of faith is rooted in the life of trust – this daring belief that no matter what, we are surrounded by the presence of the God who created us, redeemed us, and sustains us. Verse 26 promises that the Lord will keep our feet from being snared. This trust, this heartfelt trust that binds love and faithfulness to every action of our lives, is what allows us to walk the path that God sets for us. But we must remember, Proverbs 3 promises that the path will be straight – it doesn’t promise the path will be easy. The life of faith can be hard; struggle and difficulty can unexpectedly arise. But this doesn’t mean that we walk in error – it doesn’t mean that God is not leading us. The path that God has us on is the path that leads us to deeper experiences of God’s grace and love, and deeper knowledge of God’s will for our lives. And while the road my be hard at times, we can trust that are walking on the path that God has provided. As you rest this night, take a moment to reflect on the path that God has placed you on. Where do you see God moving around you? Where are you called to trust in Lord for your next step? Evening Prayer Gracious and ever-loving God, In you I live, and move, and have my being. In your presence is the pathway to life, and it is my desire to delight in your will, and walk in your way. Help me to discern the path that you place me upon. When I face decisions, Lord give me wisdom to follow your call to love and faithfulness. When the road is uneasy or hard, give the gift of trust in your presence. And Lord, in those moments when I don’t know where you are calling me, help me to be still and know that you are God, and to wait patiently for your directions.  This I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.   Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Luke, Chapter 21 As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. “Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” Some of his disciples were remarking about how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and with gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, “As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down.” “Teacher,” they asked, “when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place?” He replied: “Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not follow them. When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.” Then he said to them: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven. But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you. They will hand you over to synagogues and put you in prison, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name. And so you will bear testimony to me. But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. Everyone will hate you because of me. But not a hair of your head will perish. Stand firm, and you will win life. When you see Jerusalem being surrounded by armies, you will know that its desolation is near. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those in the city get out, and let those in the country not enter the city. For this is the time of punishment in fulfillment of all that has been written. How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers! There will be great distress in the land and wrath against this people. They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” He told them this parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees. When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” Each day Jesus was teaching at the temple, and each evening he went out to spend the night on the hill called the Mount of Olives, and all the people came early in the morning to hear him at the temple. Evening Reflection When we read Jesus’ words in tonight’s chapter, there’s a part of our spirit that testifies to the very awful events Jesus prophesied. Kingdoms fighting kingdoms, nations against one another, and immeasurable earthquakes, famines, and diseases. Many might say we are indeed in the last days and silently fear, “How much more pain and suffering is there left to experience?” before Jesus comes back.  In the meantime, we live. We go on each day learning more about a good Savior and a God with a good, redemptive plan. We watch and wait with utter hope. That might be hard to do. But before we let fear overtake us and become jaded with the things we cannot control, we must remind ourselves of the encouragement of God’s presence with us. We have the Holy Spirit living and breathing in and through us, changing our perspective and lens of Christ. But how do we practically watch and wait with hope? First, we heed Christ’s warning found in Luke 21:34-36 to be on guard and alert at all times. We refuse to become lukewarm in our faith (Revelation 3:16) and remind ourselves there is an enemy actively roaming to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10). The enemy of our souls would love a complacent Christian, one who is weary, with little hope of something beautiful to come. Next, we do exactly what Jesus said: we raise our heads. Not because of pride or in selfish gain, but because redemption is on its way! There’s a deep part of my heart that beckons for things to be made right, for King Jesus to reign and for every knee to bow and every heart to confess His Lordship. I’m so genuinely eager for pain, suffering, and death to be no more. Can you let your heart imagine that for a minute? All of the worries weighing your heart right now will be no more because all has been made right in a righteous plan! And yet, we wait amidst the weight of anxiety. We wait in the middle of grief. We wait in the middle of the mundane, ordinary, day-to-day work. In the waiting, we embody what Jesus said we’d do: bear testimony to Him. Then we take the next step: We choose not to fear the future, or the persecution coming our way. Finally, we “stand firm” and know God’s rescue plan is already in motion. We watch, but we do not fear. We wait, but we do not become weary. Tonight, allow hope to sweep into the corners of your heart and refresh your soul. Redemption is coming! Evening Prayer God, It’s so easy for me to see the world and everything wrong in it. From tragedies to health battles, from natural disasters to evil powers, my heart can become so weary. If I’m honest Lord, the fear of the future and what will happen to future generations can grip me with frustration, worry, and a lack of motivation to keep fighting. Help me stay passionate for you, your word, and your redemption plan. Show me my place in your story and help me live with conviction and purpose. I pray for all who have read this tonight to have a deep sense of peace and trust in you, a good and loving God. Lead the way and set the example on how to stand firm in this time in history. Ignite our flame of hope as we watch and wait for our King. In the mighty name of Jesus. Amen! Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Romans, Chapter 11 I ask then: Did God reject his people? By no means! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. God did not reject his people, whom he foreknew. Don’t you know what Scripture says in the passage about Elijah — how he appealed to God against Israel: “Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me”? And what was God’s answer to him? “I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace. What then? What the people of Israel sought so earnestly they did not obtain. The elect among them did, but the others were hardened, as it is written: “God gave them a spirit of stupor,eyes that could not seeand ears that could not hear,to this very day.”  And David says: “May their table become a snare and a trap,a stumbling block and a retribution for them.May their eyes be darkened so they cannot see,and their backs be bent forever.”  Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious. But if their transgression means riches for the world, and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their full inclusion bring! I am talking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I take pride in my ministry in the hope that I may somehow arouse my own people to envy and save some of them. For if their rejection brought reconciliation to the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead? If the part of the dough offered as first fruits is holy, then the whole batch is holy; if the root is holy, so are the branches. If some of the branches have been broken off, and you, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root, do not consider yourself to be superior to those other branches. If you do, consider this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you. You will say then, “Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in.” Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but tremble. For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either. Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. After all, if you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree! I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, and in this way all Israel will be saved. As it is written: “The deliverer will come from Zion;he will turn godlessness away from Jacob.And this is my covenant with themwhen I take away their sins.”  As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies for your sake; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs, for God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable. Just as you who were at one time disobedient to God have now received mercy as a result of their disobedience, so they too have now become disobedient in order that they too may now receive mercy as a result of God’s mercy to you. For God has bound everyone over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all. Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!How unsearchable his judgments,and his paths beyond tracing out!“Who has known the mind of the Lord?Or who has been his counselor?”“Who has ever given to God,that God should repay them?”For from him and through him and for him are all things.To him be the glory forever! Amen. Evening Reflection Life on this earth is not always easy, is it? Often, quite the opposite. This life brings a lot of different seasons, and sometimes it seems, God’s plan is hidden. Yes, trust can prove difficult at times. We suffer loss of loved ones. Broken relationships. Unexpected and unwanted changes. And God is silent. The thing is, Scripture seems to not only acknowledge this tension in our lives, but reinforces it. From Abraham to Joseph to David to Jeremiah to the Apostles to Paul – all suffered. From where we sit, we can see God’s plan, but how could they? Then there’s Israel. The ups and downs of Israel throughout their history are hard even for us now to understand. But perhaps that is the point Paul was making in Romans 11 – there is an end. God has a plan. We just have to trust that He knows what’s best and to work all things out for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). Even when circumstances feel painful, or confusing, or remain unresolved – we must trust in Him and His plan. We must have faith in His unchanging character, faithfulness, wisdom, and goodness. Faith and fear cannot co-exist. They are opposing forces, one battling the other. Fear limits; faith liberates. Fear weakens; faith strengthens. Fear paralyzes; faith inspires. Max Lucado once wrote: “Feed your fears and your faith will starve. But feed your faith and your fear will starve.”  The thing is, worry is nothing more than an emotional reaction. Fear of an outcome. Faith is a choice – and we can make that choice to trust in God with everything we’ve got. Circumstances change, but God does not, even when life seems challenging. Our trust is not built on understanding or explanations, but on surrendering our hearts and lives to Him, even when He seems silent – as He had been with Israel lo these many years. When your circumstances or the future seems unclear, cling to what is very clear: God’s mercy and grace and love and faithfulness, as demonstrated at the cross. It doesn’t mean the pain will go away, but we choose to know that God is still good and wise, even in our darkness. And he has not left your side. Faith isn’t about asking God to stop the storm, it is about trusting God to help you through it. Evening Prayer Father, Thank you for always being there for me, even when I don’t see you or hear you. You know what I’m going through and I thank you for letting your Holy Spirit give me strength to get me through this crisis. I don’t know how this will end – but that doesn’t matter because you are in control. Please remind me that you are right here with me. Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Psalm, Chapter 149 Sing to the Lord a new song,his praise in the assembly of his faithful people. Let Israel rejoice in their Maker;let the people of Zion be glad in their King. Let them praise his name with dancingand make music to him with timbrel and harp. For the Lord takes delight in his people;he crowns the humble with victory. Let his faithful people rejoice in this honorand sing for joy on their beds. May the praise of God be in their mouthsand a double-edged sword in their hands, to inflict vengeance on the nationsand punishment on the peoples, to bind their kings with fetters,their nobles with shackles of iron, to carry out the sentence written against them—this is the glory of all his faithful people. Praise the Lord. Evening Reflection When God finished making Adam and Eve, the first humans in Genesis 1, he ended his work by saying it was very good. From the very beginning, we were made for his delight. Before sin, God walked with Adam through the garden, sharing this beautifully created space with him and Eve. After Adam and Eve ate from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, God discovered something was amiss because he was strolling through the garden looking for his friends. When he realized they were hidden due to shame, he immediately knew something had gone wrong. Since the Fall, God has been working to bring humanity back into perfect communion with himself. We are his beloved, and he delights in us! He sees beauty in us, as creatures made in his image; we are a reflection of his goodness. As a beloved creature, how do you respond? Do you give thanks for the gift of God’s adoration in your life? Do you strive to please your maker? Or are you diminishing your value and purpose? You matter because God made you on purpose for a purpose. When we deny our value, we deny the very Word of the Lord. Self-hatred is to say that God is a liar. That his declaration of love and commitment to us was meaningless. We can have faith in ourselves not out of pride, but because we have faith in the Lord and we believe what his Word says about us! Rejoice because you are fearfully and wonderfully made. God loves you. He delights in the work of your hands. He covets your praises. He orchestrates the details of your life for your good. He is a good father whom you can trust. Evening Prayer Father, I rejoice that you delight in me! I am valuable because I am made by you. I thank you for the plan and purpose you have given my life. I ask that you would help me to remain confident not because I am filled with pride but because I am filled with faith. I praise you and thank you for your unfailing love. Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture 1 Peter, Chapter 5 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them — not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen. With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it. She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you her greetings, and so does my son Mark. Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ. Evening Reflection When I was a high school English teacher, most days were long, dreary, and stress-inducing. Not because I didn’t love the students, I did (and still do), but because I struggled to be present. I was there, but I wasn’t really there. Have you ever been in this place? Carrying our worries with us long after the day is over is common to most of us. We’re not counting sheep, we’re counting concerns. It’s not that we want to, but we can’t seem to shake them out of our minds. From replaying conversations to stressing about tomorrow, or carrying burdens that we were never meant to bear alone, the verses found in 1 Peter 5 sound so out of reach. How do we cast all of our anxiety on Him? How do we resist the devil? How do we truly give God our burdens? What I love about this passage is that no matter what worries have been occupying my mind, God tells us to cast them on Him because He cares for us. Because He loves us. Because He knows we will try to carry them. But He wants to help lighten the load. It’s a difficult question to ponder, but what burdens have you been trying to carry in your own strength? What are you truly anxious about, and have you given these concerns to God? Are you still holding tightly to what is slowly killing you? When you think about your life, I want you to know that a changed perspective is possible. God invites us to cast all our anxieties on Him because He cares for us. Not because He’s mad at us or yelling at us when we do. But because we weren’t created to, nor do we have to carry the weight of our burdens alone. True humility isn’t acting like our worries and fears don’t exist, but recognizing our need for God's help while surrendering control to Him. His strength and care are greater than any worry we face. This passage reminds us that this side of Heaven, you and I may still be anxious. It’s not natural to give our worries and cares to someone we can’t physically see. But it’s a great opportunity to ask yourself what burdens you’re carrying and how we can choose to faithfully trust even in the face of fear. As you prepare for rest, ask yourself: Where have I been trying to control what only God can handle? Evening Prayer Dear Jesus, Tonight, I give you the worries and burdens I’ve been carrying. Even when I pick them up again, I surrender. I surrender the things that are outside of my control and trust that your love, care, and faithfulness will protect me even there. Thank you for allowing me to rest knowing that you’re watching over me and working on my behalf. Amen. Agape, Amber Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Psalm, Chapter 16 Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord;I have no good apart from you.” As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones,in whom is all my delight. The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply;their drink offerings of blood I will not pour outor take their names on my lips. The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup;you hold my lot. The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance. I bless the Lord who gives me counsel;in the night also my heart instructs me. I have set the Lord always before me;because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;my flesh also dwells secure. For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,or let your holy one see corruption. You make known to me the path of life;in your presence there is fullness of joy;at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Evening Reflection Joy. It’s one of the things we long for most in life. Yet with the challenges we face, is lasting joy even possible? How do we hold on to joy when we're bombarded with one difficulty after another? In tonight’s passage, the psalmist David expressed a level of joy that can only be found in a relationship with the Lord. From his praise, we, too, can discover God’s plan for lasting joy. David proclaimed, “The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot” (Psalm 16:5). God planned an inheritance for us that is full of promise and provision. And even though this abundant gift doesn’t ensure a life free from trouble, our God is always steadfast and sure. Sometimes our supply will run low, and we may be tempted to worry over when provision will come. Thankfully, we have good news to cling to, whatever struggles we face. Our inheritance rests in God’s powerful hands.  The Hebrew word for “lot” spoken in this psalm is goral, which means, “a device by which a decision was made” as it relates to an allotment of land or an inheritance. When David expressed his belief in God as the holder of his lot, he acknowledged his trust in God to keep his inheritance safe. No matter what difficulties come our way, our inheritance as God’s children rests secure because of the One who holds our future. As we ponder tonight’s psalm, let’s focus on this truth David knew: God himself is our rich and glorious inheritance. Like David, we can rejoice knowing lasting joy is found in God’s presence. He is here with us right now. Let’s pray and ask God to renew joy in our hearts as we reflect on the closing verse, “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11). Evening Prayer Dear God, Thank you for your Word. It brings me joy to know you are here with me, and that you hear my prayer. Thank you for my inheritance as your child. I rejoice in knowing my future is secure because of my relationship with you. Your son Jesus suffered death on the cross so that I could have eternal life — a gift I did not deserve, but you freely gave because of who you are. You are a good and generous God. You are my portion, now and forever. In Jesus name I pray, Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.   Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Hebrews, Chapter 6 Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, instruction about cleansing rites, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And God permitting, we will do so. It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age and who have fallen away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace. Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned. Even though we speak like this, dear friends, we are convinced of better things in your case — the things that have to do with salvation. God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. When God made his promise to Abraham, since there was no one greater for him to swear by, he swore by himself, saying, “I will surely bless you and give you many descendants.” And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised. People swear by someone greater than themselves, and the oath confirms what is said and puts an end to all argument. Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath. God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek. Evening Reflection Promises are great, but they are only as good as the person making them. We all know people who have said they are going to do something and their word is as useless as an umbrella in a hurricane. However, God’s promises are different. They are that way because he made them, but more importantly because he always keeps them. Yet, there is one little challenge we all experience when we are waiting for God’s promise to be fulfilled. We don’t know when it will happen. It would be so much easier if God always said “on this date, at this time, this is what I am going to do.” Most of the time that is not how it works. Instead, we must trust that he will do what he says even when we don’t know when. So how then do you cling to his promises when they are delayed, and how do you avoid allowing doubt to start creeping in? One thing you can do is look at God’s track record. Looking through the Bible and back through your own life, you will see a record of God’s faithfulness. Sometimes you must remind yourself of this. Remember how you just happened to run into the right person who opened a door for you. Or consider the provision that came through exactly when you needed it. Maybe it was the person praying for your exact situation without you saying a word. These things may seem small, but they are reminders that God sees your situation and he will come through. If you are believing in God for something, keep believing he is true to his word and know that he will not fail you. According to the writer of Hebrews, it is impossible for God to lie, and that truth is what anchors our souls even when we don’t know when it will happen. Evening Prayer God, Today I am trusting what you have said in your word. You have made promises, but more importantly you have kept your promises. I pray today that you will give me the courage to keep trusting you even when nothing is happening or the situation looks bleak. Remind me that you honor your word and that everything you say, you will do. Help my faith to remain strong, and when I am worried, remind me of who you are. You have never forsaken me and you won’t stop now. Thank you for walking with me through this process and help me not to neglect the lessons that I will learn as I am waiting for you. I pray all this in Jesus’ name, Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Isaiah, Chapter 64 Oh, that you would rend the heavens and come down, that the mountains would tremble before you! As when fire sets twigs ablaze and causes water to boil, come down to make your name known to your enemies and cause the nations to quake before you! For when you did awesome things that we did not expect, you came down, and the mountains trembled before you. Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him. You come to the help of those who gladly do right, who remember your ways. But when we continued to sin against them, you were angry. How then can we be saved? All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away. No one calls on your name or strives to lay hold of you; for you have hidden your face from us and have given us over to our sins. Yet you, LORD, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Do not be angry beyond measure, LORD; do not remember our sins forever. Oh, look on us, we pray, for we are all your people. Your sacred cities have become a wasteland; even Zion is a wasteland, Jerusalem a desolation. Our holy and glorious temple, where our ancestors praised you, has been burned with fire, and all that we treasured lies in ruins. After all this, LORD, will you hold yourself back? Will you keep silent and punish us beyond measure? Evening Reflection Some of the hardest-fought seasons of our faith are marked by waiting. Waiting on God to move often looks like us being still before Him. It can feel like a time of stagnation. Which, if you’re like me, is entirely uncomfortable. When we’re asked to “wait,” it feels like a consequence. But when we unpack Scripture, we see that while waiting can happen for that reason, many times it’s to grow the faith and reverence of those who are being asked to wait. In Isaiah 64, we see a cry and a petition for the Lord to come down and make things right. He literally begs God for His aid. What began as complaining quickly turns to petition. His heart posture shifts from one of utter frustration to that of a reverent follower who wants what God wants for his people. In verses 8-9, Isaiah pens, “But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand. Be not so terribly angry, O Lord, and remember not iniquity forever. Behold, please look, we are all your people.” He writes here that he fully understands we do not deserve the Lord's grace and quick response, but we also serve a God who will meet us as He sees fit. What is it that you are waiting for — a fresh hope, complete joy, healing, or redemption? Whatever it is, you are not alone. All believers find themselves in this place on the journey with Jesus, and I pray we all remember the Holy Spirit is with us in the waiting. He is interceding for you when you have no more words to say; He will wash peace over you as you wait. Keep your eyes and heart fixed on the Lord. Trust Him in the waiting, knowing that He is with you. Evening Prayer Lord, Will you be tangibly present as I wait? Some days, it's hard to hold fast to what I know is true when it feels like you’re silent. I pray for fresh hope, new joy, and an assurance that the Holy Spirit is leading me. In areas where I’ve become complacent on this journey, would you shake me up? Remind me that your view is perfect, you know the perfect timing, and your plan will always be better than mine — even when it feels hard or painful. Please draw my heart near and wash me with your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Matthew, Chapter 20 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard. He agreed to pay them a denarius for the day and sent them into his vineyard. About nine in the morning he went out and saw others standing in the marketplace doing nothing. He told them, ‘You also go and work in my vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.’ So they went. He went out again about noon and about three in the afternoon and did the same thing. About five in the afternoon he went out and found still others standing around. He asked them, ‘Why have you been standing here all day long doing nothing?’ ‘Because no one has hired us,’ they answered. He said to them, ‘You also go and work in my vineyard.’ When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the workers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last ones hired and going on to the first.’ The workers who were hired about five in the afternoon came and each received a denarius. So when those came who were hired first, they expected to receive more. But each one of them also received a denarius. When they received it, they began to grumble against the landowner. ‘These who were hired last worked only one hour,’ they said, ‘and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the work and the heat of the day.’ But he answered one of them, ‘I am not being unfair to you, friend. Didn’t you agree to work for a denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give the one who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?’ So the last will be first, and the first will be last.” Now Jesus was going up to Jerusalem. On the way, he took the Twelve aside and said to them, “We are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and the teachers of the law. They will condemn him to death and will hand him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and flogged and crucified. On the third day he will be raised to life!” Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Jesus with her sons and, kneeling down, asked a favor of him. “What is it you want?” he asked. She said, “Grant that one of these two sons of mine may sit at your right and the other at your left in your kingdom.” “You don’t know what you are asking,” Jesus said to them. “Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?” “We can,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “You will indeed drink from my cup, but to sit at my right or left is not for me to grant. These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared by my Father.” When the ten heard about this, they were indignant with the two brothers. Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave — just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” As Jesus and his disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed him. Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted all the louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” Jesus stopped and called them. “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. “Lord,” they answered, “we want our sight.” Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him. Evening Reflection Grace is truly an amazing word. By definition it means to receive unmerited favor. What I love about the Christian journey of faith and being a follower of Christ is that grace levels the playing field. None of us are saved because we deserved it. Instead, we are all saved because of God’s amazing grace. In the first part of Matthew 20, the workers were complaining because everyone got the same reward even though it seems as if the ones who started earlier in the day did more work. The workers who started early in the day complained and that’s because they didn’t understand grace. Recently, I was listening to a reporter talk about a criminal who had committed murder and was sentenced to life in prison. She was disappointed that this person did not get the death penalty. The reporter said this person may not have gotten what they deserved in this life, but when they die, they will find there is a place waiting for them where they will get what they deserve. This reporter also does not understand grace. She was deciding who is worthy of grace and who is not. She saw the sin in the man and deemed his sins unworthy of receiving God’s grace. Strangely, by default she was assuming that her sins were worthy of grace.  When we understand grace, we recognize that all of us are sinners and none of us deserve salvation. The Father gives it because he wants to and because it is his to give. Instead of arrogance, that should make us feel more deserving. It should bring us to a place of humility because we know we are not worthy. I invite you today to walk in God’s grace. It is enough to save you, but it is also enough to keep you. His grace truly is amazing. This should always humble us and remind us that we are all the byproduct of grace we did not deserve, but grace we have freely received. Evening Prayer Lord, Today I want to thank you for your grace. I don’t know where I would be today if your grace had not rescued me from my sin. I acknowledge your grace does not come because I deserve it, but because I need it. Father, help me to walk humbly and to never forget that I am not more deserving of salvation than anyone else. Instead let me share your wonderful grace and let others know that despite what they have done, there is salvation and forgiveness, and it is all because of your grace. Let this be the way I live all the days of my life.  I pray all this in Jesus’ name, Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Philippians, Chapter 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. Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh. 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 — though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ — the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ — yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained. Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. Evening Reflection Maturity often looks like perseverance. Perseverance means keeping up a steady effort to achieve a goal, even when things get hard or take a long time. As we grow, we learn how to stick with things even when they get hard. As parents, half the work we do is encouraging our kids when they complain, get frustrated, when the work isn’t fun, or when it's hard. The goal of parenthood is for our kids to eventually become people who can solve problems, stay focused, and remain reliable on their own. Paul is speaking as a parent to the new Christians of the city of Philippi. He encourages them in verses 13-15, explaining that to do the work of the Lord, they have to press towards the goal. They can’t stop; they have to keep moving forward. Paul goes on to say that those who are mature take on this gritty, “let’s do this thing” kind of attitude. Maybe you need the same pep talk. The going got tough, God hasn’t answered your prayer as quickly or efficiently as you’d like, or you're just plain stuck. The Bible says get focused. Don’t grow weary in doing good; press forward towards the calling God has placed on your life. Graciously, we don’t have to muster up the strength to get unstuck on our own. Through prayers of faith, God offers to carry us on eagles' wings (Exodus 19:4). He brings us to the next season by his might and strength and through his grace, all for his glory! Personally, I’ve faced many seasons in which my soul felt weary. When I knew I was out of answers, strength, or ideas. I needed a miracle. Every time I’ve reached the end of myself, God showed up for me. The time my panic disorder had finally consumed my whole life, I cried out to the Lord for help, and he led me towards the support I needed. When my marriage was unraveling, my heart cold and hurt, I gave it all over to him, asking his will to be done. Miraculously, we started to take baby steps toward healing and new, healthier habits. God provided these things in abundance. The message of Philippians 3 is don’t give up. Stay focused on the calling God has for you and don’t do it alone. God gave his life so you could be his. He loves you and he won’t leave you to drown. He can carry you through to the next season. Evening Prayer Father, I ask that you would grow perseverance and maturity in me. Show me how to remain focused on the goal and calling you have for my life. By your strength alone, get me to the next season. Carry me on your eagles’ wings. Strengthen and encourage me to do the work you have for me and let it all be for your glory. You provide all I need. I need you to get unstuck. Help me Lord.  Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Psalm, Chapter 148 Hallelujah!  Praise the LORD from the heavens;praise Him in the highest places.  Praise Him, all His angels;praise Him, all His heavenly hosts. Praise Him, O sun and moon;praise Him, all you shining stars. Praise Him, O highest heavens,and you waters above the skies. Let them praise the name of the LORD,for He gave the command and they were created. He established them forever and ever;He issued a decree that will never pass away. Praise the LORD from the earth,all great sea creatures and ocean depths,lightning and hail, snow and clouds,powerful wind fulfilling His word,mountains and all hills,fruit trees and all cedars,wild animals and all cattle,crawling creatures and flying birds,kings of the earth and all peoples,princes and all rulers of the earth,young men and maidens,old and young together. Let them praise the name of the LORD,for His name alone is exalted;His splendor is above the earth and the heavens. He has raised up a horn for His people,the praise of all His saints,of Israel, a people near to Him. Hallelujah! Evening Reflection Sometimes we can forget how good it is to praise the Lord, because of how it not only glorifies Him, but also lifts us up from the inside-out. When we praise Him, our hearts and minds are encouraged, refreshed, and renewed, as we praise His glorious majesty. We can too easily forget that we aren’t the only ones praising Him, but are joining in with a multitude of angels and heavenly hosts, and with the sun, moon, and shining stars, and all of Creation. It is the highest privilege to be able to praise the Lord, to lift up His name and speak of His glorious and majestic ways and attributes. In Luke 19:38-40, as Jesus was making His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, “When He came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: ‘Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”” Yet, “Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, ‘Teacher, rebuke your disciples!’” “’I tell you,’ He replied, ‘if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.’” Even if others try to silence us from praising God, His creation cannot keep quiet. It has been created and issued a decree to praise His name forevermore. His name alone is to be exalted, the only One who is worthy of our praise, and we have a divine invitation to join in with Creation to lift up His Holy Name. Evening Prayer God, Today I lift up Your name in praise, joining in with the angels, heavenly hosts, the sun, moon, and shining stars, and all of Creation to praise Your Holy Name. Lead me each day, O Lord, to look up and, with my whole heart, join in with unison and harmony to praise You. Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Ephesians, Chapter 2 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions — it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands) —remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. Evening Reflection At the end of every day, most of us think back over the highs and lows. What we did right. What we did wrong. Who we talked to. What we accomplished. What we still didn’t check off the list. If we aren’t careful, this mental inventory even gets taken to bed. Before we know it, we’re tossing and turning with questions that never seem to end. Thankfully, passages like Ephesians 2 remind us that our relationship with God isn’t based on how many items we checked off our to-do list, how long we read our Bible, or even how many spiritual things we did that day in service to Jesus. Our relationship with God has never been based on how well we perform. And yet, maybe we live like it does. Instead of resting in grace, we rest in busyness and productivity. So, we put our heads down, keep going, and burn the candlestick out at both ends. But is this really how Jesus says we should live?  In Ephesians 2, we see that “it is by grace you have been saved…it is the gift of God.” Contrary to how we might live or believe, grace isn’t something we have to work hard enough to deserve, achieve, or earn; rather, it’s something we receive. Tonight, and every night after that, God isn’t asking you to prove yourself before you rest. He’s inviting you to accept what He’s already freely given to those who believe. When you think about your life, are you tempted to measure your worth by what you do? I know I am. Do you ever feel like you have to earn God’s approval or carry your mistakes as punishment? If so, you’re not alone. But instead of judging or shaming yourself, talk honestly with God using these questions: - Where am I trying to earn what God’s already given me through grace? - Where have I confused following Jesus with trying to prove myself to Him? This passage reminds us that sin is serious. Paul is clear about that. But where we’ve been isn’t who we are. And because of His great love for us, God is rich in mercy and love. The salvation He offers us isn’t a paycheck for good deeds or behavior, but a free gift given to all who will accept it. Yes, good works still matter, but they come after grace. So tonight, you don’t have to calculate whether you did enough to prove yourself to God. You can confess what needs confessing, receive forgiveness, and then walk in freedom. Because your identity isn’t found in the success or failure of today; it’s found in Christ alone. Evening Prayer Dear Jesus, Tonight, I want to thank you for your grace and mercy. I confess that I’ve tried to win your approval, and I pour out my sins, failures, regrets, and disappointments of today. Thank you for your saving grace. Thank you that it isn’t based on what I do or who I am, but who you are. Please help me to accept this gift, and live in the freedom it offers. I love, praise, and thank you, Jesus. Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Isaiah, Chapter 41 “Be silent before me, you islands! Let the nations renew their strength! Let them come forward and speak; let us meet together at the place of judgment. Who has stirred up one from the east, calling him in righteousness to his service? He hands nations over to him and subdues kings before him. He turns them to dust with his sword, to windblown chaff with his bow. He pursues them and moves on unscathed, by a path his feet have not traveled before. Who has done this and carried it through, calling forth the generations from the beginning? I, the LORD — with the first of them and with the last — I am he.” The islands have seen it and fear; the ends of the earth tremble. They approach and come forward; they help each other and say to their companions, “Be strong!” The metalworker encourages the goldsmith, and the one who smooths with the hammer spurs on the one who strikes the anvil. One says of the welding, “It is good.” The other nails down the idol so it will not topple. “But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, you descendants of Abraham my friend, I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. “All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish. Though you search for your enemies, you will not find them. Those who wage war against you will be as nothing at all. For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. Do not be afraid, you worm Jacob, little Israel, do not fear, for I myself will help you,” declares the LORD, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.  “See, I will make you into a threshing sledge, new and sharp, with many teeth. You will thresh the mountains and crush them, and reduce the hills to chaff. You will winnow them, the wind will pick them up, and a gale will blow them away. But you will rejoice in the LORD and glory in the Holy One of Israel. “The poor and needy search for water, but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst. But I the LORD will answer them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them. I will make rivers flow on barren heights, and springs within the valleys. I will turn the desert into pools of water, and the parched ground into springs. I will put in the desert the cedar and the acacia, the myrtle and the olive. I will set junipers in the wasteland, the fir and the cypress together, so that people may see and know, may consider and understand, that the hand of the LORD has done this, that the Holy One of Israel has created it. “Present your case,” says the LORD. “Set forth your arguments,” says Jacob’s King. “Tell us, you idols, what is going to happen. Tell us what the former things were, so that we may consider them and know their final outcome. Or declare to us the things to come, tell us what the future holds, so we may know that you are gods. Do something, whether good or bad, so that we will be dismayed and filled with fear. But you are less than nothing and your works are utterly worthless; whoever chooses you is detestable. “I have stirred up one from the north, and he comes — one from the rising sun who calls on my name. He treads on rulers as if they were mortar, as if he were a potter treading the clay. Who told of this from the beginning, so we could know, or beforehand, so we could say, ‘He was right’? No one told of this, no one foretold it, no one heard any words from you. I was the first to tell Zion, ‘Look, here they are!’ I gave to Jerusalem a messenger of good news. I look but there is no one — no one among the gods to give counsel, no one to give answer when I ask them. See, they are all false! Their deeds amount to nothing; their images are but wind and confusion. Evening Reflection It’s easy to say “do not fear” when life is well, the bills are paid, and the medical results have come back negative. But what about when life is chaotic, the bills are overdue, and you’re sitting in the waiting room for what feels like forever? As darkness settles in around us and fall gives birth to winter, our fears only seem to multiply. Maybe you’re replaying something that happened yesterday, the stress of uncertain things, or carrying a burden you’ve told no one about. And yet, God says, “Do not fear, for I am with you.” How do those words make you feel? If you’re anything like me, I used to roll my eyes and ignore the words altogether. This verse sounds nice but feels impractical. Until I realized that God isn’t shaming us for being afraid; He’s offering His peace as a source of comfort. Before He even told His people not to fear, He told them that He would be with them. He is their God, and we are His people. He would strengthen, support, help, and lift them. His command “not to fear” isn’t rooted in what happens next, but rather in His steady and ever-faithful presence. When you think about your life, what feels uncertain or scary right now? What would change tonight if you believed you didn’t have to face these fears alone? What if instead of relying on your own strength, you asked God to carry you with His? Isaiah 41 doesn’t say that we won’t face scary things this side of Heaven. But God’s Word does promise that He will be with us no matter what we face. His progression from I am with you, to I am your God and I will strengthen you, shows us that sometimes the answer to our fear isn’t watching it dissipate. It’s not an explanation or being brave. It’s reassurance that even in uncertainty, God is there, too. The good news is that you and I don’t have to manufacture enough courage tonight. It’s okay to be scared. But we can rest in the One who promises to hold us even when we can’t hold ourselves. “Do not fear” isn’t a demanding “how-dare-you-be-scared” accusation. “Do not fear” is an invitation: “Let’s face this together.” As you prepare for rest, ask yourself: What fear do I need to ask the Lord to help me with? Talk to God about these fears. They may not be removed overnight, but His presence is always with you. Evening Prayer Dear Jesus, Tonight, I want to acknowledge my fears instead of ignoring them. I bring you ______. Thank you for your promise of peace even when it feels far. Please give me strength for what I can’t change and comfort me even here. I love, praise, and thank you, Jesus. Amen. Agape, Amber Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Evening Scripture Jude, Chapter 1 Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James, to those who have been called, who are loved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ: Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance. Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people. For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord. Though you already know all this, I want to remind you that the Lord at one time delivered his people out of Egypt, but later destroyed those who did not believe. And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their proper dwelling — these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day. In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire. In the very same way, on the strength of their dreams these ungodly people pollute their own bodies, reject authority and heap abuse on celestial beings. But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not himself dare to condemn him for slander but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” Yet these people slander whatever they do not understand, and the very things they do understand by instinct — as irrational animals do — will destroy them. Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam’s error; they have been destroyed in Korah’s rebellion. These people are blemishes at your love feasts, eating with you without the slightest qualm — shepherds who feed only themselves. They are clouds without rain, blown along by the wind; autumn trees, without fruit and uprooted — twice dead. They are wild waves of the sea, foaming up their shame; wandering stars, for whom blackest darkness has been reserved forever. Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about them: “See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of his holy ones to judge everyone, and to convict all of them of all the ungodly acts they have committed in their ungodliness, and of all the defiant words ungodly sinners have spoken against him.” These people are grumblers and faultfinders; they follow their own evil desires; they boast about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage. But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit. But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life. Be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear — hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh. To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy — to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen. Evening Reflection Jude offers one of the most amazing and comforting promises in all of Scripture. Yet when you read through the chapter, it does not begin there. You first read about ungodly people who have slipped in among the believers, and bring with them immorality, perversion, and denying Jesus Christ.  Aside from that, we see the destruction of those who were delivered but later failed to believe. Jude talks further about those who are perverted, defiant, and scoffers who follow their own ungodly desires. Despite all of this, this chapter leaves us with an everlasting hope, and here it is: To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy — to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen” (Jude 1:24-25). The hope we find in Jude transcends anything and everything that is happening in our culture. It focuses our attention not on our ability to keep ourselves, but on Christ’s ability to do that. This is the essence of our salvation. We are saved by Christ and the finished work on the cross. However, we are also kept by Christ, and the one who saved us is the one who will preserve us.  This truth makes all the difference in the world. When you grasp this truth, then you realize that your salvation comes by grace through faith, and it is kept by grace through faith. You don’t have to hope in yourself to bring about salvation; you must keep your hope in Christ. He is the one who keeps you and who will present you faultless before God’s throne. That is an everlasting promise that you can hold on to. Evening Prayer Lord, Today I want to pray a prayer of rejoicing. I thank you for saving me by your grace and that it was not by my own works. I also thank you for keeping me by your grace, knowing that too is because of your promise and not my own works. Help me rest in the truth that you are the one who is holding and upholding me. You are the one who has saved me and that you are the one who will keep me. Teach me not how to strive harder, but to trust more. And help me understand that trusting always leads to your perfect rest. I pray all this in Jesus’ name. Amen. Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/  Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.