Lessons for Life with James Long, Jr.

Stress can feel like a relentless tide, washing over our lives with barely a moment's respite. Yet, within the ancient texts of the Bible lie timeless strategies for reclaiming peace and tranquility. We begin our journey unpacking these strategies by turning to the wisdom found in Philippians and Thessalonians, where the call for meditation, prayer, and gratitude forms a solid foundation for stress management. This episode transcends mere coping tips, instead offering a pathway to transform your daily routine through practices that honor both the mind and body, as inspired by Corinthians. Embrace the teachings that frame physical exercise not just as a necessity but a celebration of our earthly vessels. Our special guest enriches the conversation by shedding light on the profound relief that comes with the practice of forgiveness. Letting go becomes an art form in this discussion, as we unburden ourselves of resentment and open our hearts to the possibilities that trust and surrender to God's plan can bring. We continue weaving these timeless teachings into a modern context, recognizing the pillars of self-care and community support as not only beneficial but vital to our well-being. Join us in seeking retreat from the stressors of life, and discover how fostering inner peace can guide you to a remarkably stress-free existence, buoyed by spiritual growth and the pursuit of contentment. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Show Notes for "The Gravity of Grace (Romans 3)" Introduction:The Problem of Sin and God's Wrath:The Dilemmas We Face:The Solution – The Salvation Triangle:Propitiation:Redemption:Justification:Conclusion:Prayer:Resources:Invitation:For a complete transcript of "The Gravity of Grace (Romans 3)," access the full document here. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Do the tumultuous emotions of anxiety and anger seem all too familiar in your life? Our latest episode is a beacon of hope, offering insight into the transformative teachings of Jesus through the Beatitudes. We discuss how these ancient precepts provide not just a singular path, but a continuing journey that reshapes the very character of those who follow them. Unpack the beauty and challenge of an inner transformation that's meant to shine outwardly, much like the fruit of the spirit emerges in the life of a believer. Our conversation is a heartfelt invitation to reflect on the deep values that should anchor our existence and guide us toward a more visible expression of our faith. As we navigate this spiritual expedition, we reflect on the profound growth that stems from recognizing our poverty of spirit and the humility of coming before the cross with nothing but our hearts laid bare. We draw inspiration from figures like Moses and Jesus, who exemplify meekness—a potent mixture of strength and gentleness. The episode pulses with the desire for righteousness and justice, encouraging listeners to immerse themselves in a pursuit that aligns with God's heart, with promises of comfort and the kingdom of heaven as our compass. Join us as we dissect the implications of these beatitudes in our lives, finding solace in the transformative journey they chart. Embracing the beatitudes means reflecting the character of Christ, even when the path leads us through the fires of persecution. We explore the virtues of mercy and peacemaking, and the strength that comes from purity of heart. For believers across the spectrum—from the self-assured to the overwhelmed by sin—we offer insights into how these principles can ground us in God's unwavering love. Together, we pray for and extend an invitation to those who stand at the crossroads, yearning for the peace and redemption that is found at the foot of the cross. Embark with us on this episode, where we seek to embody the fullness of Christ's character and embrace the profound rewards of a righteous life. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Discover the profound lessons embedded within the life and teachings of Jesus Christ as we journey through history to a time when divine silence was broken. Embark on a narrative adventure starting with the angelic announcement to Mary, moving through John the Baptist's fervent call for repentance, and culminating in Christ's own baptism, temptation, and early ministry. Our exploration promises to illuminate the inseparable link between Jesus' transformative words and His miraculous deeds, akin to the prophets of old, providing a compelling understanding of the true essence of His mission. As we navigate the complexities of discipleship and the paradoxical nature of godly blessing, we unravel the depth of Jesus' mentorship to His disciples. Contrasting modern evangelical trends with the intimate, ripple-effect approach of Christ, we discern the weighty joy in the oracles of blessing and woe. Feel the pull towards a deeper connection with the divine as we parse the Sermon on the Mount, exposing a path to fulfillment that reaches far beyond earthly contentment. Lastly, this episode addresses the heartrending yet transformative experience of godly sorrow, distinguishing it from the fleeting pangs of worldly regret. We offer solace and insight into the beatitudes, reflecting on the traits of kingdom citizens and the power of recognizing our need for redemption. Our prayerful closing invites listeners to embrace humility, seek repentance, and foster a relationship with the Almighty, ensuring a journey towards forgiveness and true spiritual freedom. Join us for this introspective episode, where ancient teachings meet the enduring quest for spiritual growth and understanding. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Suffering can often feel like an inescapable shadow, looming over our lives with a weight that is all too real. We look to the apostle Peter, the beacon of hope, as we walk through the deepest valleys of our human experience, discussing the many forms that suffering takes—mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual. Peter's letters speak to the heart of our struggles, offering not the secular hope of wishful thinking but a profound biblical assurance that anchors us firmly in the midst of life's tempests. As we unpack these messages, we're reminded of the grace that flows from understanding and embracing this hope. Our exploration doesn't stop at the doorstep of adversity; instead, it leads us to the comforting doctrine of divine election and the thought-provoking concept of God's foreknowledge. Even as we wrestle with our flaws, we find solace in knowing that we are part of an eternal plan, chosen not for our merits but for His purpose. Through the lens of 1 Peter, we see how this knowledge offers us a stronghold during trying times, reinforcing our faith in the steadfast nature of God's love and His unshakeable commitment to us. And in the stirring journey of salvation, we encounter the radical love of God—a deliberate choice rather than a fleeting emotion, as society often portrays it. The conversation extends beyond our initial transformation at conversion, delving into the ongoing process of sanctification by the Spirit. We discuss the intertwining of obedience and grace, understanding that while our paths may sometimes diverge from the divine, His enduring faithfulness remains our guiding star. Our discourse culminates with reflections on the stability of a life built upon the rock-solid foundation of Christ's teachings, leaving us with a prayer for strength and the comfort of His eternal refuge. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

‌ From Noah’s Ark to the Cross: God's Faithfulness and Our Assurance (Genesis 8:20-9:17) ‌ 1. The Faithfulness of God in the Flood (Genesis 8:20-22) ‌ 2. The Sanctity of Human Life (Genesis 9:1-7) ‌ 3. The Covenant with Noah: A Promise of Preservation (Genesis 9:8-17) ‌ Bringing It Home: Applying What We Have Learned ‌ ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Genesis 3:9-24: "The Penalty of Guilt and the Promise of Grace: Understanding Sin's Gravity and Grace's Reach" jameslongjr.org The Penalty of Guilt and the Promise of Grace: Understanding Sin's Gravity and Grace's Reach (Genesis 3:14-24) 1. Prosecution (Genesis 3:9-13) 2. Penalty: The Divine Decree of Judgment (Genesis 3:14-19) 3. Promise: The Proclamation of Redemption (Genesis 3:15, 20-21) 4. Parting: The Expulsion and the Cherubim (Genesis 3:22-24) ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Genesis 3:1-13 - "The Deception in Eden: How Satan's Doubts Lead to Humanity's Downfall" James Long, Jr. - https://jameslongjr.org/ Dive deep into Genesis 3:1-13 as we explore Satan's cunning tactics that led Eve to question God's Word, Character, and Authority. Understand the recurring pattern of sin through 'saw, desired, took' and see its parallels in the stories of Achan and David. Discover the immediate consequences: shame, fear, and guilt that resonate in our lives today. ‌ Message: Genesis 3:1-13 - "The Deception in Eden: How Satan's Doubts Lead to Humanity's Downfall" 1. Perversion: The Crafty Deception (Genesis 3:1-5) ‌Temptation in Eden and its Parallels: ‌2. Pretense: The Human Response (Genesis 3:6) 3. Panic: The Consequences of Disobedience (Genesis 3:7-10) 4. Pursuit: God Pursue, Prods, and Probes (Genesis 3:9-11)‌ 5. Prelude to God's response and hope for redemption.‌ ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Jude 17-25 - "God's Keeping Power in a Divisive Age" James Long, Jr. Steadfast Living in an Unsteady World / Jude 17–25 Explore the profound truths in Jude 17-25 as we delve into the apostolic predictions, the call to fortify our faith, the urgency of reaching the lost, and the unwavering assurance of God's protective power. Join us in understanding how to stand firm in 'God's Keeping Power in a Divisive Age.'‌ ------- Message Exposition: God's Keeping Power in a Divisive Age (Jude 17-25) ‌ REMEMBER: Remembering Apostolic Predictions (Jude 17-19) Paul’s predicts that false teachers will invade the church (Acts 20:29-30 and 1 Timothy 4:1-3) ‌ REAFFIRM: Building Up in Faith (v. 20-21) ‌ RESCUE: Responding to the Lost (v. 22-23) ‌ REST ASSURED: The Assurance of God's Keeping Power (v. 24-25) ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

2 Peter 2:1-10a - "Guarding Against Deception: Recognizing and Rejecting False Prophets" James Long, Jr. Steadfast Living in an Unsteady World / Deceit; False Teaching; Judgment; Discernment Dive deep into 2 Peter 2:1-10a, understanding the dangers of false prophets, God's judgment on the unrighteous, and His promise of deliverance to the faithful. Find clarity in today's times with this powerful message. ‌---- Sermon Outline: The Rise of False Prophets (2:1-3)God's Past Judgments as Evidence (2:4-6)God's Promise of Deliverance for the Righteous (2:7-9)The Characteristics of the Unrighteous (2:10a)Application for Today's Believer ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Life often presents us with moments that require courage and strength beyond our own abilities. In the devotional on "Finding Strength and Courage in God," we draw inspiration from Joshua 1:9, where God assures us of His presence and empowers us to face challenges with unwavering faith. Let's embark on a transformative journey of discovering God's empowering love, overcoming fear, and finding the strength to embrace life's challenges. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Discover the power of embracing God's new beginnings through this uplifting devotional inspired by Isaiah 43:18-19. Explore the transformative message of leaving the past behind, embracing God's plans for the future, and finding hope in the promise of a fresh start. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Discover the power of seeking guidance and wisdom through prayer, inspired by James 1:5. This devotional explores the transformative impact of asking God for wisdom, trusting in His generous promise to provide, and finding direction for life's journey. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Experience the power of "Manifesting God's Plans," a guided devotional that leads you to surrender and align your life with His divine purpose. Find inspiration in Bible verses as you seek His guidance, allowing His plans to unfold in your journey of faith. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Join the transformative journey of "Embracing Loving Kindness," a guided devotional that leads you to cultivate compassion and grace in your heart. Through inspiring Bible verses, discover the beauty of kindness towards others and yourself, fostering a deeper connection with God's love. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Finding Peaceful Rest - Guided Devotional for Tranquility and Renewal Immerse yourself in the serenity of "Finding Peaceful Rest," a guided devotional designed to bring tranquility and renewal to your soul. Discover solace and inner peace through powerful Bible verses, and embrace God's comforting presence in times of weariness and unrest. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Devotional - Finding Stillness in God Psalm 46:10 - "Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations; I will be exalted in the earth!" Experience divine peace and connection through this devotional on stillness. Drawing from Psalm 46:10, learn to be still in God's presence, knowing He is exalted above all. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Cultivating Gratitude 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties. It is easy to lose sight of the blessings that surround us. However, as followers of Christ, we're called to cultivate a spirit of gratitude. Offering thanks to God in all circumstances. Let us delve into the powerful message of 1 Thessalonians 5:18 and explore how embracing gratitude can transform our perspectives and draw us closer to God. Embracing a Grateful Heart Gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion. It is a state of the heart. When we choose to give thanks in all circumstances, we acknowledge that every aspect of our lives is under God's sovereign care. Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have from the challenges to the opportunities for growth and learning. Or as they say to my mentoring clients, moving from a deficit mindset to a surplus mindset. The Will of God 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us to give thanks is the will of God in Christ Jesus for us. God desires His children to be grateful because it aligns our hearts with His plans and purposes. When we express gratitude, we recognize His goodness and provision, even in the midst of trials. Finding Gratitude in All Circumstances Gratitude does not dismiss or ignore struggles, but rather it allows us to see them through a different len. In every circumstance, whether joyful or difficult, we can find reasons to be thankful. Each challenge presents an opportunity for God to reveal His strength. And every blessing is a reminder of His abundant grace. A Transformative Perspective Cultivating gratitude transforms our perspective. It frees us from the grip of discontentment and comparison. And as we choose gratitude, we find contentment in God's provision and our hearts overflow with joy. Let's go to prayer. Well dear Heavenly Father. We thank you for the wisdom of your word. Teach us to cultivate a spirit of gratitude in our lives. Help us to recognize your hand at work in every circumstance and to offer thanks from the depths of our heart. May our gratitude be a testimony of your love and faithfulness to those around us. In your Son's matchless, holy and powerful name, we pray. Amen. So as we bring this home and as we conclude. May we embrace the call to give thanks in all circumstances for in doing so we align our hearts with God's will. Let us be intentional in seeking reasons to be grateful. Even in challenging times. And as we cultivate gratitude, may our lives reflect a profound trust in our Heavenly Father who faithfully cares for us in every season. May our gratitude draws closer to God and inspire others to seek the beauty of a grateful heart. ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

https://jameslongjr.org/ Explore the profound message of faith under fire as we delve into 1 Peter 5:8-11. We unpack the strategies of Satan, the purpose of suffering, and the unshakeable, sovereign grace of God. Discover how to arm yourself with awareness and engage with resistance to stand firm amidst life's trials. Faith Under Fire: Satan, Suffering, and the Sovereign Grace of God Satan (1 Peter 5:8-9) Suffering (1 Peter 5:10) Sovereign Grace of God (1 Peter 5:10) Worship the True Lion King (1 Peter 5:11) https://jameslongjr.org/memberships/ ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Parenting (by Paul Tripp) Principle 1: Calling - Nothing is more important in your life than being one of God’s tools to form a human soul. Principle 2: Grace - God never calls you to a task without giving you what you need to do it. He never sends you without going with you. Principle 3: Law - Your children need God’s law, but you cannot ask the law to do what only grace can accomplish. Principle 4: Inability - Recognizing what you are unable to do is essential to good parenting. Principle 5: Identity - If you are not resting as a parent in your identity in Christ, you will look for identity in your children. Principle 6: Process - You must be committed as a parent to long–view parenting because change is a process and not an event. Principle 7: Lost - As a parent, you’re not dealing just with bad behavior but a condition that causes bad behavior. Principle 8: Authority - One of the foundational heart issues in the life of every child is authority. Teaching and modeling the protective beauty of authority is one of the foundations of good parenting. Principle 9: Foolishness - The foolishness inside your children is more dangerous to them than the temptation outside of them. Only God’s grace has the power to rescue fools. Principle 10: Character - Not all of the wrong your children do is a direct rebellion to authority; much of the wrong is the result of a lack of character. Principle 11: False Gods - You are parenting a worshiper, so it’s important to remember that what rules your child’s heart will control his behavior. Principle 12: Control - The goal of parenting is not control of behavior but rather heart and life change. Principle 13: Rest - It is only rest in God’s presence and grace that will make you a joyful and patient parent. Principle 14: Mercy - No parent gives mercy better than one who is convinced that he desperately needs it himself. Bringing It Home: Final Thoughts ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! Links Website – https://jameslongjr.org/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/ Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast