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    <title>Beyond Sunday</title>
    <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com</link>
    <description>Read weekly sermon summaries, Bible teaching, and gospel-centered encouragement from Beulah Baptist Church, Hopkins, SC. Explore Scripture, revisit recent messages, and grow deeper in your walk with Christ.</description>
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      <title>Beyond Sunday</title>
      <url>https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Beyond+Sunday+Main+Thumbnail-ea3ce3cc.png</url>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com</link>
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      <title>The Hope That Holds You</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/the-hope-that-holds-you</link>
      <description>Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 1:15–23 reminds believers to live from the hope, inheritance, and power that are theirs in Christ.</description>
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           Knowing the Hope, Inheritance, and Power that are Yours in Christ
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           Sermon Reflection:
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           Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 1:15–23 reminds believers to live from the hope, inheritance, and power that are theirs in Christ. This post is based on Pastor Ken’s sermon, “No Power Outages.” Watch the full sermon below.
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           In Ephesians 1:15–23, Paul prays for the church in Ephesus. But his prayer may not be what we expect. He does not simply pray that their problems would go away. He prays that they would know what is already theirs in Christ. He prays that the eyes of their hearts would be enlightened so they would understand the hope, inheritance, and power God has given to His people. That is a prayer we still need.
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           Faith and Love Are Evidence of God’s Grace
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           Paul thanks God because he has heard of the Ephesians’ faith in the Lord Jesus and their love for all the saints. Their faith and love showed that God’s grace was truly at work in them.
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           Faith in Christ is an essential mark of a true believer. We are saved through faith in Jesus, and we continue to live by faith in Him. But Paul also points to love for other believers. A person who belongs to Christ should love the people of Christ.
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           That love is not merely a feeling. It is action. It is sacrifice. It is caring for brothers and sisters in Christ in deed and truth.
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           We Need God to Open Our Eyes
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           Paul prays that God would give the Ephesians wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him. They already had the Holy Spirit, but they still needed God to help them know Him more deeply.
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           We can know many things, but the greatest knowledge we can have is the knowledge of God. What we believe about God shapes our thoughts, desires, worship, obedience, and hope.
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           So Paul prays that God would open the eyes of their hearts. We cannot see spiritual truth by our own ability. We need the Holy Spirit to help us know God, understand His Word, and live in light of what is true.
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           The Hope That Holds Us
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           Paul wants believers to know “the hope to which he has called you.” Christian hope is not wishful thinking. It is not the same as saying, “I hope everything works out.” The hope God gives His people is certain because it rests on what He has promised in Christ.
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           We may hope for health, freedom, financial stability, or relief from suffering. Those things matter, but they are not ultimate. If they are taken away, our hope is still in Christ.
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           Believers have the hope of glory. We will be with Christ. We will be made like Christ. We will receive the inheritance God has promised. Our hope is sure because God has given it to us by His grace in Christ.
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           The Inheritance That Is Ours in Christ
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           Paul also prays that believers would know “the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints.”
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           This reminds us that we have an inheritance in Christ. We have eternal life, forgiveness, joy, peace, strength, and the promise of forever with God.
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           But it also reminds us of something amazing: God’s people are His inheritance. Christ redeemed us and made us His own. Unworthy sinners are called God’s people, not because we earned it, but because Christ gave Himself for us and clothed us in His righteousness. That truth should give us security and joy. We belong to Him.
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           The Power Already Working for Us
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           Paul then prays that believers would know “the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe.”
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           This is the same power God worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him above every rule, authority, power, and dominion. Paul does not pray that the Ephesians would receive this power as though they did not already have it. He prays that they would know the power already working toward them in Christ.
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           Our power runs out. God’s power does not.
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           His resurrection power saves us, strengthens us, helps us fight sin, gives us boldness to serve, and keeps us faithful to the end. The power that raised and exalted Jesus will bring God’s people safely home.
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           Living from Victory, Not Defeat
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           Because Christ has been raised and exalted, believers do not have to live from a place of defeat. Sin, fear, temptation, worry, and suffering may still come, but they do not get the final word.
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           Christ is Head over all things, and He has been given to the church. We are His body. We are His people. We are inseparably joined to Him.
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           So do not live as though your struggles are stronger than His grace. Do not live as though your fear is stronger than His power. Live from the hope, inheritance, and power that are already yours in Christ.
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           Key Takeaways
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            Paul prayed that believers would know what was already theirs in Christ.
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            Faith in Jesus and love for other believers are marks of true salvation.
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            Christian hope is certain because it rests on God’s promise in Christ.
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            Believers have an eternal inheritance, and they belong to God.
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            The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is working toward those who believe.
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            Because Christ has won the victory, believers can live from victory rather than defeat.
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           Gospel Connection
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           The hope that holds us is not based on our strength, goodness, or ability to remain faithful on our own. We were sinners who deserved God’s judgment. But God sent His Son to redeem us through His blood.
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           Jesus died for our sins and rose from the dead so that all who repent and believe in Him can be forgiven, declared righteous, adopted into God’s family, and sealed with the Holy Spirit.
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           Our hope is sure because Christ has accomplished our salvation. Our inheritance is secure because Christ purchased us. Our future is certain because the power that raised Jesus from the dead will also bring us safely home.
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           Questions for Reflection
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            What temporary hopes are you most tempted to build your life around?
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            Do you desire to know God more deeply, even when His truth challenges you?
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            Are you living from a place of defeat, or from the victory Christ has already won?
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           Watch the Full Sermon
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            This post is based on Pastor Ken’s sermon,
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           “No Power Outages,”
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            from
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           Ephesians 1:15–23
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           . Watch the full sermon above, or join us this Sunday at Beulah Baptist Church as we continue to grow in God’s Word together.
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      <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:59:02 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/the-hope-that-holds-you</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Practical Christianity,Resurrection,Bible Study,Promises of God,Christian Living,Gospel,Scripture Application,Jesus Christ,Biblical Faith,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
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      <title>Your Pain Has a Purpose</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/your-pain-has-a-purpose</link>
      <description>God can use what you are going through in ways you may not see. Jacob, Joseph, and Joni remind us that pain is real, but your story is not over.</description>
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           Your story is not over
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           In
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           Genesis 32
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           , Jacob wrestled with God until daybreak. He walked away with a limp, but also with a new name: Israel, one who had struggled with God and prevailed. That night did not leave Jacob the same. His pain became part of the story God was writing in his life.
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           In
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           Genesis 37
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           , Joseph was betrayed by his own brothers and sold into slavery. Later, he was falsely accused and thrown into prison. For years, Joseph’s life looked like one loss after another. But God was not absent in Joseph’s suffering.
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           Genesis 50
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           , Joseph could look back and say to his brothers, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.” God used Joseph’s pain to preserve life, including the lives of the very people who had wounded him.
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           We see this kind of testimony in more recent examples too. Joni Eareckson Tada was paralyzed after a diving accident as a teenager. Her suffering did not end quickly. In fact, she has lived for decades with physical limitations. Yet God has used her life and testimony to encourage countless people to hope in Christ. She has said that when she gets to heaven, she wants her first steps to be toward Jesus.
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           That kind of hope does not pretend suffering is easy. It does not minimize abuse, trauma, rejection, illness, physical disability, being ignored, feeling unseen, or even the pain that comes from our own sin and regret. These wounds are real. Some are caused by what others have done to us. Some come from living in a broken world. Some come from choices we wish we could undo.
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           But no wound is beyond the reach of a compassionate God.
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           That does not always mean God removes the wound immediately. Sometimes He does. Sometimes healing comes in ways we can see. But sometimes, like Joni, the healing we long for will not be complete until our bodies are glorified and we stand whole before Christ.
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           Even then, God is not wasting the pain.
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           He may be shaping you, even now, for a purpose you cannot yet see. He may be teaching you to depend on Him more deeply. He may be preparing you to comfort someone else with the comfort you have received. He may be making your faith visible to nurses, doctors, caregivers, family members, friends, coworkers, or people who are watching how you suffer.
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           Your hospital room can become a place of testimony. Your weakness can become a place where God’s strength is seen. Your story can become a doorway for someone else to hear about hope in Christ.
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           This does not mean your pain is good. It means God is good. And because God is good, your pain does not get the final word.
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           Jacob was changed. Joseph was used to save many. Joni’s life continues to point people to Jesus. And your story is not beyond the reach of God’s mercy, compassion, and purpose.
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           Bring your wounds to Him. Bring your questions to Him. Bring your regret, grief, fear, and weakness to Him. The God who met Jacob in the night, sustained Joseph through years of suffering, and gives hope to His people today is still at work.
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            Your pain may have a purpose you cannot see yet, but God sees it. And in Christ, He is able to redeem more than you ever imagined.
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           The most compelling proof that God can bring purpose through pain is the cross of Jesus. What looked like defeat became the place where God brought salvation.
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           Your Story Is Not Over
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           Maybe you are walking through pain right now. Maybe you are carrying wounds no one else can see. Maybe you are trying to make sense of suffering, regret, weakness, or loss.
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           You do not have to carry it alone.
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           The hope of this post is not simply that things will get easier. The hope is that God is compassionate, near, and able to work in ways you may not see. In Jesus Christ, pain does not get the final word. Sin does not get the final word. Suffering does not get the final word. God does.
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           If you are hurting, we would love to pray with you, encourage you, and point you to the hope found in Jesus Christ.
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            Join us this Sunday at
           &#xD;
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           Beulah Baptist Church
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           , or reach out to us if you would like someone to pray with you.
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           Your pain is real.
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           But your story is not over.
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      <pubDate>Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:03:31 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/your-pain-has-a-purpose</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Practical Christianity,New Christians,Beulah Baptist Church,Bible Study,Scripture,Christian Encouragement,Following Jesus,Hopkins SC,Spiritual Growth,BeulahHopkinsSC,Christian Discipleship,Biblical Faith,Jesus Christ,Christian Basics,spiritual growth,Christian discipleship,Walking with God,Christian Living,Gospel,Beyond Sunday,Prayer and Bible Study,#BeulahHopkinsSC,Growing in Faith,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
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      <title>Prayer Is Not a Performance</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/prayer-is-not-a-performance</link>
      <description>Prayer is not about impressing God with polished words. Learn how Jesus teaches us to pray honestly, humbly, and through Him.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
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           You don’t have to impress God
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  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Prayer+Is+Not+a+Performance+Blog+Thumbnail.png" alt="Quiet prayer setting with a journal, mug, lamp, and window light with text reading, “Prayer Is Not a Performance,” for a Beulah Baptist Church Beyond Sunday blog post on honest prayer."/&gt;&#xD;
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           Prayer can feel intimidating when you think you have to sound spiritual.
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           Maybe you feel like your words are not spiritual enough. Maybe you have heard someone else pray and thought, “I could never pray like that.” Maybe you worry that you are saying the wrong thing, using the wrong words, or not praying long enough.
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           That pressure can make prayer feel intimidating.
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           But prayer is not a performance. Prayer is not about impressing God. It is not about sounding religious. It is not about proving how spiritual we are. Prayer is coming honestly before our Father through Jesus Christ.
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           Jesus Warned Against Performative Prayer
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           In Matthew 6, Jesus warned His followers about praying in order to be seen by others. He said, “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites.” They loved to pray in public places so that people would notice them. Their prayers may have sounded impressive to others, but Jesus said they had already received their reward.
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           Jesus also warned against “empty phrases,” as if God is more likely to listen because we use many words. That does not mean public prayer is wrong. It does not mean longer prayers are wrong. It means the heart matters.
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           Prayer can become performance when we are more concerned with how we sound to people than with coming honestly before God.
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           God Is Not Impressed by Fancy Words
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           Sometimes we think prayer has to sound a certain way. We may think we need formal language, long sentences, or religious phrases. But God is not impressed by polished words. He is not waiting for us to sound spiritual enough before we can come to Him.
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           Jesus said our Father knows what we need before we ask Him. That should encourage us. We do not have to explain everything perfectly. We do not have to impress God into caring. We come to a Father who already knows, already sees, and already invites His children to draw near.
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           Prayer Is Coming Honestly to the Father
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           Prayer is not pretending. It is not pretending to be stronger than we are.  It is not pretending to be more faithful than we are. It is not pretending we have everything figured out.
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           Prayer is bringing our real heart before God.
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           That means we can come with our praise, but also our weakness. We can come with thanksgiving, but also our grief. We can come with confidence, but also our confusion. We can confess sin. We can ask for help. We can admit when we are afraid, distracted, tired, or struggling.
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           God is not looking for a performance. He welcomes humble hearts.
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           We Come Through Jesus
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           The reason Christians can pray is not because our prayers are perfect. We come to the Father because Jesus has made the way. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus brings sinners near to God. Our confidence in prayer is not based on how well we pray. It is based on Christ.
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           That is good news.
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           If your prayer feels weak, Jesus is not weak.
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           If your words feel small, Christ is enough.
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           If you do not know how to say everything, your Father still knows what you need.
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           We do not pray to earn access to God. We pray because, through Jesus, we have been given access to the Father.
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           A Simple Way to Begin
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           If prayer has felt like a performance, start simple.
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           You can pray:
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            “Father, help me come honestly to You.”
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            “Lord, forgive me for trying to impress others.”
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            “Jesus, teach me to pray with humility.”
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            “God, I need You today.”
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            “Father, help me trust You.”
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           Those are real prayers.
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           You do not have to sound like someone else. You do not have to pray with perfect words. You can come to God honestly, humbly, and dependently.
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           Keep Coming Back
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           Prayer is not a stage. It is not a speech. It is not a performance. Prayer is communion with God.
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           So keep coming back.
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           Come when your words feel strong. Come when your words feel weak. Come when you know what to say. Come when all you can say is, “Lord, help me.”
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           Your Father is not looking for polished words. He welcomes His children.
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           Want to Learn More?
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           You do not have to learn to pray alone.
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           We invite you to join us for Bible study and for
           &#xD;
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           worship. Visit our
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           website
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            to find our location and to find opportunities to grow with us.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 22:08:01 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/prayer-is-not-a-performance</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">New Christians,Practical Christianity,,Bible Study,Daily Bible Reading,Christian Encouragement,Following Jesus,Scripture Application,Spiritual Growth,BeulahHopkinsSC,Christian Discipleship,Biblical Faith,Jesus Christ,hard Bible passages,how to read the Bible,Scripture,biblical interpretation,reading Scripture,context,Bible questions,Christian discipleship,spiritual growth,Jesus Christ,Beyond Sunday,Beulah Baptist Church,Hopkins SC,#BeulahHopkinsSC,Christian Basics,Bible Reading,Devotional Life,Christian Living,Gospel,Prayer and Bible Study,Beyond Sunday,Growing in Faith,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
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      <title>What Do We Do with Hard Bible Passages?</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/what-do-we-do-with-hard-bible-passages</link>
      <description>How should Christians handle hard Bible passages? Read with humility, context, and hope as Scripture points us to Jesus.</description>
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           Reading difficult texts with humility, context, and hope
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            ﻿
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           Some parts of the Bible are difficult to understand.
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           That does not mean we should pretend they are easy. It also does not mean we should ignore them. Faithfulness to God’s Word means coming to Scripture with humility, honesty, and a willingness to listen.
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           There are passages in the Bible that raise questions. Some are hard because they are unfamiliar to us. Some are hard because they come from a different historical setting. Some are hard because they confront our assumptions, expose our sin, or challenge the way we think about God, humanity, judgment, justice, and grace.
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           So what do we do when we come across a difficult passage?
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           Don’t Pretend Hard Passages Are Easy
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           Christians do not have to act like every passage is simple.
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           Some passages require patience, humility, and careful study. There are parts of Scripture that we may not understand immediately. We may need to slow down, read more carefully, ask better questions, and seek wisdom from faithful teachers.
           &#xD;
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           Admitting that a passage is difficult is not a lack of faith. It can actually be an act of humility. We are acknowledging that God’s Word is deeper than our first impression.
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           Don’t Ignore Them Either
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           If all Scripture is God’s Word, then we do not get to skip the parts that make us uncomfortable.
           &#xD;
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           It can be tempting to avoid hard passages and only read the portions of the Bible that feel familiar, encouraging, or easy to apply. But 2 Timothy 3:16 reminds us that “all Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable.”
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           That means even the passages that stretch us are there for a reason. God uses His Word to teach us, correct us, humble us, and point us to our need for grace.
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           Read in Context
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           One of the most important things we can do with hard passages is read them in context.
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           Ask simple questions:
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            What comes before this passage?
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            What comes after it?
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            Who was it written to?
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            What was happening at the time?
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            How does this fit into the larger story of the Bible?
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           A verse removed from its context can easily be misunderstood. But when we slow down and read carefully, we often begin to see more clearly what God is saying.
           &#xD;
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           Let Scripture Interpret Scripture
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           Difficult verses should be read in light of the whole Bible.
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           The Bible is not a collection of disconnected sayings. It is one unified story of God creating, ruling, judging, redeeming, and restoring. So when we come to a hard passage, we should ask how it fits with the rest of Scripture.
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           Clearer passages can help us understand more difficult ones. The larger story of the Bible helps us interpret the smaller parts rightly.
           &#xD;
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           Ask What the Passage Reveals
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           Even difficult passages teach us something true.
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           They may reveal something about the holiness of God. They may show us the seriousness of sin. They may expose the brokenness of humanity. They may remind us of our need for mercy. They may help us see the beauty of grace more clearly.
           &#xD;
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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           Instead of asking only, “Why is this hard?” we should also ask, “What is God showing me here?”
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           Remember Where Scripture Is Going
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           The whole Bible points us to Jesus Christ.
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           Jesus is the clearest revelation of who God is. He is the fulfillment of God’s promises, the Savior sinners need, and the One in whom justice and mercy meet.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           When we read hard passages, we should not read them as isolated problems. We read them as part of the bigger story that leads us to Christ.
           &#xD;
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           Let Hard Passages Humble Us
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           We do not stand over God’s Word as judges. We stand under it with humility.
           &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           That does not mean we should not ask questions. It means we ask our questions with reverence. We come to the Bible not as people trying to correct God, but as people who need God to correct us.
           &#xD;
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           Hard passages remind us that we are not the final authority. God is.
           &#xD;
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           Keep Coming Back to the Word
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           Hard passages should not drive us away from Scripture. They should drive us deeper into God’s Word.
          &#xD;
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
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           When Scripture is hard, slow down. Pray. Study. Ask for help. Keep listening. God has spoken, and His Word is worth the time, patience, and humility it takes to understand it rightly.
           &#xD;
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  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
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           Have Questions About the Bible?
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           You do not have to walk through them alone.
          &#xD;
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
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           At Beulah Baptist Church, we would love to open God’s Word with you and point you to Jesus. Whether you are new to the Bible, returning to church, or wrestling with honest questions, there is a place for you here.
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           Join us this Sunday.
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           Beulah Baptist Church
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           beulahbaptist.com
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           We invite you to join us for Bible study and for worship. Visit our website to find our location and to find opportunities to grow with us.
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  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Cameron+DeBrew+Bio.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Hard+Passages+Thumbnail.png" length="1830931" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 16:54:21 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/what-do-we-do-with-hard-bible-passages</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">New Christians,Practical Christianity,,Bible Study,Daily Bible Reading,Christian Encouragement,Following Jesus,Scripture Application,Spiritual Growth,BeulahHopkinsSC,Christian Discipleship,Biblical Faith,Jesus Christ,hard Bible passages,how to read the Bible,Scripture,biblical interpretation,reading Scripture,context,Bible questions,Christian discipleship,spiritual growth,Jesus Christ,Beyond Sunday,Beulah Baptist Church,Hopkins SC,#BeulahHopkinsSC,Christian Basics,Bible Reading,Devotional Life,Christian Living,Gospel,Prayer and Bible Study,Beyond Sunday,Growing in Faith,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
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    <item>
      <title>Psalm 19 | God Is Not Silent</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/psalm-19-god-is-not-silent</link>
      <description>Psalm 19 reminds us that God is not silent. He speaks through creation, Scripture, and Christ, calling us to listen and respond.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
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           Hearing God’s Voice in Creation, Scripture, and Christ
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&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
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           We live in a very noisy world. Voices everywhere tell us what to believe, how to live, and where to find hope. With all that noise, we may wonder why God does not seem to be speaking.
          &#xD;
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            But Psalm 19 reminds us of one simple truth:
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    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           God is not silent.
           &#xD;
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           God has been speaking all along. The question is not, “Where is God?” The question is, “Are we listening?”
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           Psalm 19 shows us that God speaks through creation, through His Word, and ultimately through Jesus Christ.
           &#xD;
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           God Speaks Through Creation
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           David begins Psalm 19 by looking up:
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  &lt;blockquote&gt;&#xD;
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           “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.”
          &#xD;
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           Creation is not silent. Creation is preaching. Every sunrise, every sunset, every star-filled night, and every thunderstorm declares the glory of God.
           &#xD;
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           David reminds us to look up. Not to escape our problems, but to see our problems in light of the God who rules over them.
           &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           The God who keeps the stars in place is fully capable of handling whatever we are facing.
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           Creation Reveals God, But Creation Does Not Save
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           Creation speaks clearly and universally. It tells us there is a Creator who is powerful, wise, orderly, beautiful, and glorious.
           &#xD;
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           But creation does not save.
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           Creation tells us that God exists, but if we are going to know Him personally, He must speak more clearly. And He has done that through His Word.
           &#xD;
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           God Speaks Through His Word
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           Psalm 19 says:
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  &lt;blockquote&gt;&#xD;
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           “The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul.”
          &#xD;
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           God’s Word does what nothing else can do. It revives the soul, renews the mind, rejoices the heart, enlightens the eyes, warns us, rewards us, and transforms the whole person.
           &#xD;
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           The heavens can tell us that God exists, but only Scripture tells us that God loves sinners, sent His Son, and offers forgiveness through Christ.
           &#xD;
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  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
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           God’s Word Revives the Soul
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           There is a difference between being physically tired and being soul tired. You can sleep, rest, or take a vacation and still feel worn down on the inside.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           God’s Word reaches the deepest part of who we are.
           &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           Many Christians are spiritually malnourished because we feed ourselves on everything but truth. We give hours to news, entertainment, politics, sports, and social media, then wonder why our souls are weary.
          &#xD;
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           The soul was designed to feed on the truth of God.
           &#xD;
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  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
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           God’s Word Renews the Mind
          &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
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           We live in an age of information, but not necessarily an age of wisdom.
           &#xD;
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           Information is not the same as wisdom.
          &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Wisdom is learning to see life from God’s perspective. God’s Word teaches us how to think, how to suffer, how to forgive, how to love others, and how to live wisely in a world full of lies.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
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           God’s Word Transforms the Life
          &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           God’s Word rejoices the heart, enlightens the eyes, produces reverence for God, and establishes righteousness.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           Real joy is not found in perfect circumstances. Real joy is found in knowing God and walking with Him.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           God’s Word also turns on the lights. It gives truth for the path and direction when the world is dark
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           .
          &#xD;
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  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
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           God’s Commands Are Guard Rails
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           David says God’s Word is more desirable than gold and sweeter than honey. He also says God’s Word warns us. Warnings from God are grace.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           God’s commands are not burdens. They are protection. They are like guard rails on a dangerous road.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           When God warns us, it is because He loves us and knows where sin leads.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           God’s Word Exposes Hidden Sin
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           David prays:
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;blockquote&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           “Who can discern his errors? Declare me innocent from hidden faults.”
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/blockquote&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Sin blinds us. Pride, bitterness, and self-righteousness rarely announce themselves.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           That is why God’s Word is such a gift. It works like a mirror. The Bible does not create our sin. It exposes our sin. And that is mercy.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           God’s Word Protects Us From Deliberate Sin
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           David also prays:
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;blockquote&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           “Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins. Let them not have dominion over me.”
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/blockquote&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Presumptuous sins are deliberate sins. It is the attitude that says, “I know what God says, but I’m going to do what I want.”
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Sin is never content to stay small. Repeated sin eventually becomes ruling sin.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           That is why we need to pray, “Lord, keep me back. Don’t let sin rule me.”
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           God’s Word Produces a Surrendered Life
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           Psalm 19 ends with this prayer:
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;blockquote&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/blockquote&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The goal of Scripture is not information. It is transformation.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           David wants every part of his life to please God: his words, thoughts, motives, and heart. That should become our prayer too: “Lord, make my life pleasing to You.”
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Gospel Connection: Jesus Is Our Rock and Redeemer
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           Psalm 19 points us beyond David.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Creation reveals God’s glory. Scripture reveals God’s truth. But both ultimately point us to Jesus.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The God who created the heavens entered His creation. The God who inspired Scripture became flesh. The God David called “my rock and my redeemer” has a name. His name is Jesus.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The bad news is that we have not listened to God as we should. We have ignored His voice, gone our own way, and sinned in our thoughts, words, and actions.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           But Christ came for sinners like us. He lived the life we could never live, died for our sins, and rose again so that everyone who trusts in Him can be forgiven and made right with God.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Because of Jesus, we can pray with confidence, “O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Key Takeaways
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ol&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            God is not silent.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
          
             He has been speaking all along.
            &#xD;
        &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            Creation declares God’s glory.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
          
             Every sunrise, sunset, and star-filled night is a sermon.
            &#xD;
        &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            Creation reveals God, but creation does not save.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
          
             We need God’s Word.
            &#xD;
        &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            God’s Word revives the soul.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
          
             The soul was designed to feed on God’s truth.
            &#xD;
        &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            Information is not wisdom.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
          
             Wisdom is seeing life from God’s perspective.
            &#xD;
        &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            God’s commands are guard rails.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
          
             They are protection, not burdens.
            &#xD;
        &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            God’s Word exposes sin.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
          
             The Bible is a mirror that reveals what is already there.
            &#xD;
        &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            Scripture transforms us.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            The goal is not just to know more, but to become more like Christ.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ol&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Questions for Reflection
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Are you listening to the God who has already spoken?
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Are you feeding your soul with God’s truth?
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Is there hidden sin you need God to expose?
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Are there warnings from God’s Word you have started to ignore?
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Are your words, thoughts, motives, and heart pleasing to the Lord?
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Call to Action
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           This week, return to God’s Word. Not out of guilt. Not simply to check a box. Return because your soul needs it.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           If you are weary, discouraged, anxious, or unsure what to do next, God has already spoken. Listen to Him. Trust His Word. Look to Christ.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Watch the full sermon, share it with someone who needs encouragement, and join us at Beulah Baptist Church as we continue seeking Christ through His Word.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
           God is not silent. So this week, listen.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Listen to the Full Sermon
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           This post is based on a sermon from Psalm 19 preached at Beulah Baptist Church. We invite you to listen to the full message at the top of this post and hear how God speaks through creation, through His Word, and ultimately through Jesus Christ.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Cameron+DeBrew+Bio.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/God+Is+Not+Silent+YT+Thumbnail.png" length="3111350" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Mon, 29 Jun 2026 16:48:36 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/psalm-19-god-is-not-silent</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Practical Christianity,Resurrection,Bible Study,Promises of God,Christian Living,Gospel,Scripture Application,Jesus Christ,Biblical Faith,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/God+Is+Not+Silent+YT+Thumbnail.png">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/God+Is+Not+Silent+YT+Thumbnail.png">
        <media:description>main image</media:description>
      </media:content>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>I Don't Know How to Pray</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/i-don-t-know-how-to-pray</link>
      <description>Not sure how to pray? Learn a simple, honest way to begin talking to God, pray Scripture, and keep coming back to Him.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Blog+Post+Picture+I+Dont+Know+How+To+Pray.png"/&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           A simple place to start when prayer feels awkward, distracted, or difficult.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           Have you ever felt awkward, distracted, or unsure what to say to God?
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Most Christians have. Sometimes we know we should pray, but when we actually try, we do not know where to begin. Our minds wander. Our words feel clumsy. We wonder if we are saying the right things. We may even feel guilty because prayer does not come as naturally to us as we think it should.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           But prayer is not about sounding spiritual. It is not a performance. It is not about impressing God with polished words or religious language. Prayer is simply coming honestly before God.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           You Don’t Need Fancy Words
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           You do not need fancy words to pray. You can begin right where you are. A simple prayer like, “Lord, I don’t know what to say. I need Your help,” is a real prayer.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           God is not waiting for you to sound impressive. He invites His people to come to Him with honest hearts.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Tell God What’s Really Going On
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           One of the best places to start is by telling God what is really going on. Bring Him your worries. Bring Him your fears. Bring Him your needs. Bring Him your gratitude. Bring Him even your sin.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           You do not have to clean yourself up before coming to the Lord. You come to Him because you need Him.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Prayer is not pretending everything is fine. Prayer is bringing the truth of your heart before the God who already knows you completely. He knows your weakness. He knows your burdens. He knows your confusion. And because He is gracious, you can come to Him honestly.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Pray Scripture
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           When you do not have the words, pray Scripture. God’s Word can guide your words.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The Psalms are a great place to start because they give language to so many parts of life: joy, sorrow, fear, repentance, praise, waiting, and trust.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Read a passage slowly and turn it into prayer. Let the words of Scripture shape the words of your heart.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Keep It Simple
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           You can also keep prayer simple.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Praise God for who He is. Confess sin. Thank Him for His grace and kindness. Ask Him for help. Pray for others.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           You do not have to make prayer complicated. A few honest minutes with the Lord are better than avoiding prayer because you feel like you do not know how to do it.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Start Small and Keep Coming Back
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           Start small and keep coming back. You do not have to pray for an hour. You do not have to have everything figured out.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Begin with a few honest minutes. Tell God what is on your heart. Open His Word. Ask Him to help you pray.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           God Hears His Children
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           And remember this: God hears His children.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Because of Jesus, you can come to the Father with confidence, not fear. Jesus has made the way for sinners to be reconciled to God.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           That means prayer is not coming before a distant God who is reluctant to listen. Prayer is coming to your Father, who loves you, hears you, and invites you to depend on Him.
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           So when you do not know how to pray, start here:
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            Start small.
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            Be honest.
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            Keep coming back.
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            God hears His children.
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           You’re Invited
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           If prayer feels difficult for you, you are not alone. Many of us are still learning how to slow down, open God’s Word, and bring our hearts honestly before the Lord.
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           At Beulah Baptist Church, we want to help one another follow Jesus not only on Sunday, but throughout the week. We would love for you to join us as we worship, study Scripture, pray together, and grow in grace.
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           Join us this Sunday at Beulah Baptist Church.
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           There is a place for you here.
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  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Cameron+DeBrew+Bio.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
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      <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:35:09 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/i-don-t-know-how-to-pray</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Practical Christianity,Beulah Baptist Church,Bible Study,Walking with God,Following Jesus,Hopkins SC,church,BeulahHopkinsSC,Biblical Faith,Growing in Faith,Christian Basics,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
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    <item>
      <title>Thankful for Grace</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/thankful-for-grace</link>
      <description>A study of 1 Corinthians 1:4–9 showing how God's grace saves, gifts, and sustains believers through Christ and His faithful promises.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
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           Saved by Grace. Gifted by Grace. Sustained by Grace.
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           Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:4–9 
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           As Paul begins his first letter to the Corinthian church, he writes to a congregation filled with problems. They were struggling with division, pride, spiritual immaturity, and worldliness. Yet before addressing their failures, Paul pauses to thank God for them. His gratitude is not rooted in their performance but in the grace of God that had been given to them in Christ Jesus.
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           This passage reminds us that the Christian life begins, continues, and ends with grace. The same grace that saves believers through faith in Christ also equips them for service and sustains them until the day they stand before God guiltless through the righteousness of Jesus Christ.
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           Gospel Connection
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           The good news of the gospel is that our hope rests entirely in the grace of God through Jesus Christ. Like the Corinthians, we are sinners who cannot earn God's favor through our own righteousness, wisdom, or effort. Yet God, in His grace, sent His Son to live the life we could never live and to die the death we deserved. Through His death, burial, and resurrection, Jesus made a way for sinners to be forgiven, declared righteous, and reconciled to God (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
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           This passage reminds us that the same grace that saves us also sustains us. God not only calls His people to Christ but promises to keep them until the end. Because of Christ's finished work, believers can have confidence that God will keep them faithful and one day present them guiltless, blameless, and accepted in His presence forever.
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           Thankful for God's Grace
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           The Corinthian church was far from perfect. They struggled with division, pride, worldliness, and spiritual immaturity. Yet before Paul addressed their failures, he thanked God for them. His gratitude was not rooted in their behavior but in the grace of God that had been given to them in Christ Jesus, grace that had confirmed the testimony about Christ among them. Paul's perspective reminds us that God's grace is often at work even in people who still have much room to grow. Paul would extensively rebuke and correct them in this letter, but before doing so, he noted what was worthy of gratitude to God for in their lives.
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           Saved by Grace Through Christ
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           Paul reminds the Corinthians that their salvation was entirely the work of God's grace. Through the gospel, God called them to Himself, gave them faith to believe, and brought them into fellowship with Jesus Christ. Their standing before God was not earned through wisdom, righteousness, or good works. It was secured by His sovereign, electing grace (1 Corinthians 1:26-31) through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ on their behalf, grace received through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).
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           Gifted by Grace for the Church
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           The same grace that saves believers also equips them for service. God had enriched the Corinthians with spiritual gifts intended to strengthen and build up the church. The problem was not the gifts themselves but the prideful and immature way they were being used, thus resulting in pride, jealousy, and division. Spiritual gifts are not given for personal recognition and boasting that leads to division, but for loving service to Christ and His people that builds the church (1 Corinthians 12-14).
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           Sustained by Grace Until the End
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           Paul points the church beyond the present to the future grace that awaits every believer. As they eagerly waited for the return of Christ, they could rest in the assurance that God Himself would sustain them. Their confidence was not in their own faithfulness but in God's faithfulness. Because of Christ's righteousness, all who belong to Him will one day stand before God guiltless, blameless, and accepted in His sight (2 Corinthians 5:21, Colossians 1:20-23). Those whom the Father draws to Christ will come to Him, and He will lose none of them (John 6:37-44).
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           Reflecting on Grace
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           The Corinthian church was far from perfect, yet Paul never lost sight of the grace of God at work among them. The same is true for us today. We are saved by grace, gifted by grace, and sustained by grace. Our hope is not in our ability to remain faithful but in God's faithfulness to keep His promises. As you reflect on this passage, consider these questions and thank God for His grace in your life and rest in the assurance that He will sustain you until the end.
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            Am I more focused on people's failures or God's grace at work in their lives?
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            As I seek to rebuke and restore fellow believers as I should, do I maintain a spirit of gratitude for God's grace in their lives?
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            How am I using my spiritual gifts to build up Christ's church?
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            Do I eagerly anticipate the return of Christ (Romans 8:18-23, Philippians 3:20, Titus 2:13, 2 Timothy 4:8, Heb 9:28)?
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            Am I resting in God's faithfulness or my own efforts?
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            Who can I thank God for today because of His grace in their life?
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           Key Takeaways
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            God's grace is greater than our failures.
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            Salvation is entirely a work of God's grace in Christ.
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            Faith itself is a gift from God.
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            Believers are enriched through Christ with spiritual blessings and spiritual gifts.
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            Spiritual gifts are given to build up the church, not divide it.
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            Every believer has a role to play in serving the body of Christ.
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            Christians should eagerly anticipate the return of Jesus.
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            The Holy Spirit is a guarantee of our future inheritance (Ephesians 1:13-14, 2 Corinthians 1:21-22).
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            God will sustain His people until the end.
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            Our confidence before God rests in Christ's righteousness, not our own.
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           Watch Full Sermon
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           Have you trusted in the grace of God through Jesus Christ? Take time to reflect on the faithfulness of God and the hope we have in Christ. Watch the full sermon above to explore 1 Corinthians 1:4–9 in greater depth and be encouraged by the grace of God that saves, gifts, and sustains His people. If you do not have a church home, we would love to welcome you to Beulah Baptist Church this Sunday.
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  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Ken+Addison+Bio.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
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      <pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 19:56:54 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/thankful-for-grace</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Practical Christianity,Resurrection,Bible Study,Promises of God,Christian Living,Gospel,Scripture Application,Jesus Christ,Biblical Faith,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
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      <title>There Is No Other Gospel</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/there-is-no-other-gospel</link>
      <description>There is no other gospel. Learn why salvation comes by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone from Galatians 1:6–9.</description>
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           There Is No Other Gospel: Why Grace Alone Must Be Defended
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           Galatians 1:6-9
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           Paul's opening words to the Galatians are shocking. Unlike his other letters, he skips the usual thanksgiving and encouragement and immediately confronts a serious problem. The Galatian believers were abandoning the true gospel and embracing a distorted one. False teachers had convinced them that faith in Christ was not enough. They taught that obedience to Jewish laws and religious works had to be added to salvation. Paul understood the danger immediately. This was not a minor disagreement over doctrine. To abandon the gospel of grace was to abandon God Himself.
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           There Is Only One True Gospel
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           Paul tells the Galatians that he is astonished they are so quickly deserting the One who called them by the grace of Christ and turning to a different gospel. Yet Paul quickly clarifies that there is not actually another gospel at all. The false teachers were preaching a message of faith plus works. They did not completely deny Christ. Instead, they added human effort to the finished work of Jesus. But adding to the gospel does not improve it—it destroys it.
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           The true gospel is that sinners are saved solely by God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Salvation is not earned through religious performance, obedience to the law, or personal merit. It is received as a gift through faith in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). Paul's warning reminds us that turning from the true gospel is turning from God. Every generation must guard against teachings that subtly replace grace with human achievement.
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           Christ's Work Is Completely Sufficient
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           At the heart of the gospel is the finished work of Jesus Christ. Paul reminds the Galatians that no one can be justified by works of the law because no one can perfectly keep God's standard (Galatians 2:15-16). The law reveals our sin, but it cannot save us from it (Galatians 3:19-29; Romans 3:20, 7:7-8).
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           The good news is that Christ did what we could never do. He fulfilled the law perfectly and then became a curse for sinners on the cross (Galatians 3:10-14). The judgment that we deserved was poured out on Him so that all who trust in Him might be forgiven and declared righteous before God. Salvation is not Christ plus our efforts. It is Christ alone.
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           As I emphasized in the sermon, "Jesus paid it all. All to Him I owe." Nothing can be added to the completed work of Christ. To try is to suggest that His sacrifice was somehow insufficient.
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           The Church Must Defend the Purity of the Gospel
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           Because the gospel is so precious, Paul speaks with unusual urgency. He warns that anyone who preaches a different gospel is to be accursed. Even if the message comes from a respected teacher or appears spiritually impressive, it must be rejected if it departs from the gospel of grace. False gospels are dangerous because they often sound close to the truth. They appeal to human pride and the desire to contribute something to our salvation. Yet every works-based system ultimately minimizes God's holiness, diminishes the seriousness of sin, and replaces grace with human merit.
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           The church must continually proclaim, celebrate, and defend the gospel. The simple message of Christ crucified and risen for sinners can never be taught too often. It is the only message that brings salvation and the only hope for a lost world.
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           Final Thoughts
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      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Paul's message to the Galatians remains just as relevant today. False gospels continue to compete for our attention, promising righteousness through human effort, religious activity, or moral achievement.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
           But there is only one gospel.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           May we stand firmly in that grace, rejoice in Christ's finished work, and contend faithfully for the gospel that has been entrusted to us.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Gospel Connection
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            The message of Galatians 1 points us directly to Jesus Christ. We are sinners who cannot save ourselves through works, morality, religion, or effort. Christ lived the righteous life we could never live, died the death we deserved, became a curse for us on the cross, and rose again in victory. Everyone who repents and places their faith in Christ alone is forgiven, justified, and reconciled to God by grace.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Key Takeaways
           &#xD;
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  &lt;ol&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            There is only one true gospel.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Adding works to salvation destroys the gospel.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Turning from the true gospel is turning from God
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            The law reveals sin but cannot save sinners.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Christ became a curse for His people.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Works-based religion minimizes God's holiness.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            False gospels appeal to human pride and self-righteousness.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            The church must contend for the purity of the gospel.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Christ's work is completely sufficient for salvation.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ol&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Have you trusted in Christ alone for your salvation, or are you still trying to earn what God freely gives through grace? We invite you to watch the full sermon, reflect on Galatians 1:6–9, and consider the life-changing truth of the gospel. If you have questions about following Jesus, we'd love to connect with you.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           Join us this Sunday at Beulah Baptist Church as we continue growing together in God's Word.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Ken+Addison+Bio.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 14:30:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/there-is-no-other-gospel</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Practical Christianity,Resurrection,Bible Study,Promises of God,Christian Living,Gospel,Scripture Application,Jesus Christ,Biblical Faith,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
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        <media:description>main image</media:description>
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    <item>
      <title>Is Your Faith Growing or Regressing?</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/is-your-faith-growing-or-regressing</link>
      <description>What do trials reveal about your faith? Discover how God grows faith, love, and endurance through every season of life.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           What Trials Reveal
            &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           About Your Walk with Christ
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=philippians%201%3A3-6&amp;amp;version=ESV" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           2 Thessalonians 1:3-4
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h5&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           When Paul wrote to the church in Thessalonica, he wasn't writing to a perfect church. They were facing persecution, suffering, confusion, and challenges from within and outside the church. Yet when Paul looked at them, he saw something worth celebrating.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           God was working to grow their faith, increase their love for one another, and to hold them steady in faithfulness through persecutions and afflictions.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            As I studied this passage, I couldn't help but ask the same question I asked our church on Sunday:
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
           Is your faith growing or regressing?
           &#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           That's an important question because spiritual health is not measured by comfort, success, popularity, or even how long you've been in church. Spiritual health is seen in a growing trust in God, an increasing love for His people, and a steadfast faith that endures when life becomes difficult.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           A Faith That Continues to Grow
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The Christian life begins through faith in Jesus Christ. We are saved when we turn from our sin and place our trust in Christ alone for forgiveness and righteousness before God (Romans 3:23-25). But faith is not merely how we begin the Christian life. Faith is how we continue the Christian life. True believers continue in the faith (Colossians 1:21-23).
           &#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The Thessalonians were facing persecution and affliction, yet their faith was not shrinking. It was growing abundantly. They continued trusting God's promises. They continued relying on Christ. They continued walking faithfully even when life became difficult.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Trials did not cause their faith to regress. God was using those trials to deepen it. The same is true for us today. Believers will face persecutions, hardships, disappointments, suffering, and uncertainty. The question is not whether trials will come. The question is whether those trials will push us away from Christ or drive us into a deeper dependence upon Him.
            &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           A Love That Looks Outward
           &#xD;
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Paul also thanked God because the love of every believer in the church was increasing.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Notice that.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Not some of them.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Not most of them.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Every one of them.
           &#xD;
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Their suffering did not make them self-centered. It did not cause them to focus only on their own problems. Instead, they looked for opportunities to care for one another, encourage one another, and meet one another's needs.
           &#xD;
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Jesus said that love for one another is one of the clearest marks of a true disciple (John 13:34-35).
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           When God's grace is at work in our lives, we will not simply ask, "Who is loving me?" We will ask, "How can I love others?"
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           A healthy church is filled with people who intentionally care for one another and look for ways to demonstrate the love of Christ in practical ways (1 John 3:14-18, 4:7-12).
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           A Faith That Endures
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The Thessalonians were not faithful only when life was easy. They were faithful in the middle of persecution and affliction. Paul was so encouraged by their steadfastness that he used them as an example to other churches. Their endurance demonstrated the genuineness of their faith.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The same principle is true today. Trials often reveal what we truly believe. Trials prove the genuineness of our faith (1 Peter 1:3-9) and mature our faith (James 1:2-4). God uses those seasons to strengthen our faith, deepen our dependence upon Him, and prepare us for the glory that awaits His people (2 Corinthians 4:17).
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           For believers, suffering is never meaningless. God is always at work. Persecution, affliction, and hardship are temporary (1 Peter 5:6-11), so we can faithfully endure until that day God restores, confirms, strengthens, and establishes us. Even in our hardest moments, He is growing us, sustaining us, and reminding us that this world is not our final home.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Gospel Connection
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The ultimate example of faithfulness in suffering is Jesus Christ. At the cross, Jesus endured the greatest trial imaginable. He trusted the Father's plan completely and displayed perfect love by giving His life for sinners. Because of His death and resurrection, those who turn from their sin and trust in Him are forgiven, justified, and given eternal life.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The same Savior who saves us by faith also sustains us by faith.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            He is the One who grows our faith.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            He is the One who teaches us to love.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            He is the One who enables us to endure.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            And He deserves all the glory for every evidence of grace we see in our lives.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Key Takeaways
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ol&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            A healthy Christian life is marked by growing faith.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        
             Faith is not meant to stagnate or regress but to deepen as we continue trusting God's promises.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            Trials are often God's tool for strengthening our faith.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        
             Difficult seasons should drive us toward greater dependence on Christ rather than away from Him.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            Genuine faith produces genuine love for other believers.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        
             As God works in us, our love for one another should continually increase.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            Faithfulness in suffering reveals the genuineness of our faith.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        
             Steadfast endurance through trials demonstrates God's sustaining work in our lives.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            God deserves the glory for every evidence of spiritual growth.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        
             Salvation, growing faith, increasing love, and perseverance are all works of God's grace in His people.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ol&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h2&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           I'd love to encourage you to watch the full message from 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4 and spend some time reflecting on this question:
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
           Is your faith growing or regressing?
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           If you're looking for a church home, we'd love to have you join us at Beulah Baptist Church. Come worship with us this Sunday morning as we continue studying God's Word together and growing in faith, love, and steadfastness in Christ.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           We look forward to seeing you soon.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Ken+Addison+Bio.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
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      <pubDate>Mon, 08 Jun 2026 17:29:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/is-your-faith-growing-or-regressing</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Practical Christianity,Resurrection,Bible Study,Promises of God,Christian Living,Gospel,Scripture Application,Jesus Christ,Biblical Faith,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
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    </item>
    <item>
      <title>If I Have Jesus, Why Do I Need Church?</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/if-i-have-jesus-why-do-i-need-church</link>
      <description>If you have Jesus, do you really need church? Discover why God designed believers to grow through His Word, His people, and the local church.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           God's Design for Spiritual Growth
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Blog+Post+Picture+If+I+Have+Jesus-+Why+Do+I+Need+Church+%28701+x+249+px%29.png"/&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Why Do I Need Church?
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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           "Can't I just worship God at home?" It's a fair question.
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           After all, you can read your Bible at home. You can pray at home. You can listen to Christian podcasts, watch sermons online, and access more biblical resources than any generation in history. So why does church still matter?
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           Because Christianity was never intended to be a private faith lived in isolation
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           .
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           Throughout Scripture, God calls believers into a spiritual family. The local church is where we gather to worship, hear God's Word preached, pray together, encourage one another, and grow in our faith.
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           From the very beginning of the church, believers gathered together regularly. In Acts 2:42, the early Christians "devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers." They did not simply pursue God individually; they lived out their faith in community. They learned together, worshiped together, prayed together, and cared for one another.
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           The church is not merely a social gathering. It is a spiritual community centered on Christ and His Word.
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           Week after week, faithful pastors and teachers open the Scriptures, explain God's truth, and help believers understand how it applies to everyday life. Through the preaching and teaching of God's Word, God shapes His people, strengthens their faith, and calls them to greater obedience.
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           The New Testament repeatedly emphasizes the importance of gathering with other believers. Hebrews 10:24–25 encourages Christians to "consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another." God designed the Christian life to be lived alongside other believers who can encourage us, pray for us, and help us remain faithful.
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           The local church is also where believers use their spiritual gifts to serve one another. In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul compares the church to a body with many parts. Every believer has a role to play, and each member contributes to the health and growth of the whole body. We need one another in ways we often do not realize.
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           The local church is one of God's primary means for helping believers grow spiritually.
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           While no church is perfect, God's plan for His people has always included gathering together around His Word, His mission, and His people. Even Jesus regularly gathered with His disciples to teach, encourage, and prepare them for ministry. Throughout the book of Acts and the letters of the New Testament, we see churches meeting, worshiping, serving, and growing together.
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           We don't gather because we have to.
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           We gather because God knows we need it.
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           Church provides encouragement when we are discouraged, accountability when we are struggling, wisdom when we are confused, and opportunities to serve others in Christ's name. It reminds us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves—the family of God.
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           Some people hesitate to return to church because they have experienced church hurt. Sadly, churches are made up of imperfect people, and sometimes believers can be wounded by the very community that is meant to encourage them. If that has been your experience, your pain is real and should not be dismissed. Yet the failures of people do not change God's design for His church. Rather than giving up on Christian community altogether, consider seeking a healthy, Bible-centered church where grace, truth, accountability, and genuine care are practiced. Healing often happens not in isolation, but in the presence of faithful believers who point us back to Christ.
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           So yes, you can worship God at home. But God never intended for His people to walk alone. The church is His gift to believers, a place where we grow in faith, build meaningful relationships, study His Word together, fellowship with one another, and together glorify Christ.
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      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Blog+Post+Picture+Why+Do+I+Need+Church.png" length="1046548" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Sat, 06 Jun 2026 22:12:15 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/if-i-have-jesus-why-do-i-need-church</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Practical Christianity,,Beulah Baptist Church,Bible Study,Following Jesus,Hopkins SC,church,BeulahHopkinsSC,Biblical Faith,Christian Basics,Walking with God,Growing in Faith,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
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      </media:content>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Blog+Post+Picture+Why+Do+I+Need+Church.png">
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    <item>
      <title>More Than Barbecue: Investing in Gospel Ministry Together</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/more-than-barbecue-investing-in-gospel-ministry-together</link>
      <description>2026 Missions BBQ fundraiser at Beulah Baptist Church, supporting ministry, mission, and community partners through gospel-centered outreach and fellowship.</description>
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           Community, Fellowship, and Missions: A Day to Remember
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           More Than Barbecue: Investing in Gospel Ministry Together
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           Our fourth annual Missions BBQ was a tremendous blessing, and I want to take a moment to thank everyone who helped make it possible.
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           While many people know the event for the barbecue, the real purpose is much bigger than the meal. Each year, this fundraiser helps support our ministry, mission, and community partners as well as our ongoing mission efforts  throughout the remainder of the year. The funds raised help advance gospel ministry locally, across South Carolina, and around the world.
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            This year was one of our most successful events yet. We served
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           351
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           plates
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           ,
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            received
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           123
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            completed passports,
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            and raised a total of
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           $18,633
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           , exceeding our goal of $15,000 and crushing the totals we have collected in previous years. We are grateful for the generosity of our church family and community and excited to see how God will use these resources in the months ahead.
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           Ministry Partners
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           One of the biggest changes this year was our ministry partner experience. We had
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           12 ministry, mission, and community partners
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            provide display tables with information and update materials. Seven of our partners were on campus to interact with those who attended. Guests entered through the ministry fair before reaching the food line and received a passport encouraging them to visit every display. Our hope was to create meaningful conversations between attendees and our partners, and from the feedback we received, that goal was accomplished. We are grateful for each partner who took the time to participate and share about their ministry and we are are thankful for the generous donations for the passport drawing.
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           Friday Night at the Pit
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           One of my favorite parts of the weekend continues to be Friday night around the pit. Long before the first plate is served, the work begins with gathering wood, preparing the pit, and cooking through the night.
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            Jay Floyd and the pit crew once again did an outstanding job. Justin DeBrew and others spent time preparing and splitting wood, while Jay and his team managed the overnight cook with skill and dedication. Beyond the cooking itself, Friday night has become a special time of fellowship for our church family.
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           Families gathered around lawn chairs, children played baseball, guitars were played, songs were sung, and friendships were strengthened. It was a reminder that events like this do more than raise money—they strengthen the fellowship and unity of our church family.
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           Volunteers Throughout the Day
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           A tremendous number of volunteers served throughout the event in setup, serving, directing traffic, greeting guests, managing displays, and cleanup. Their willingness to serve allowed our pastoral staff to spend the day greeting guests, building relationships, and engaging with members of our community. Events like this simply do not happen without volunteers who are willing to give their time and energy for the benefit of others.
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           Kitchen Crew
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           Special thanks go to
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            Melanie Reese, Terry and Debbie Wells, and the entire kitchen team
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           . They worked tirelessly preparing sides, organizing meal service, managing the food line, and caring for our guests. While the barbecue often gets most of the attention, there is a tremendous amount of work that goes into preparing and serving a meal for hundreds of people. Terry's famous hash was once again a highlight of the event, and the entire team did an exceptional job helping the day run smoothly.
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           Greeters and Donation Collection Team
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           A special word of appreciation goes to
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           Mikey Norris, Susan O'Neal, and their team.
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            They welcomed guests as they arrived, collected donations, explained the new event layout, distributed and explained the passport cards and prize drawings, tracked attendance and plates served, and answered countless questions throughout the day.
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           Because several changes were introduced this year, their ability to communicate clearly and help guests navigate the event was incredibly important.
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           Our greeters also played a significant role in creating a positive experience. They welcomed guests, pointed people in the right direction, answered questions, and helped everyone feel comfortable. Their friendliness and hospitality reflected the heart of our church family.
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           Final Thoughts
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           The 2026 Missions BBQ demonstrated what God can do when a church family serves together, giving generously to support gospel ministry while strengthening fellowship, community engagement, and partnerships for the sake of the Kingdom.
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           Most importantly, every donation represents an investment in gospel ministry. The funds raised through this event will help support ministries that are sharing Christ, making disciples, meeting needs, and serving communities throughout the coming year.
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           As I reflect on the weekend, I am thankful to God for His provision, thankful for a church family that loves to serve, and thankful for the opportunity we have to partner together in the work of the gospel.
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           Thank you, Beulah family. I am grateful for you and excited to see how God will use these resources to make an eternal impact in the months ahead.
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           Get to Know Our Great Partners:
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           Set Free Alliance
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           Connie Maxwell Children's Ministries
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           A Moment of Hope
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           Christian Adoption Services
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           Tandons in South Africa
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           Baptist Colligate Ministries
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           Columbia Metro Baptist Association
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           Camp Cole
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           Hopkins Elementary
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    &lt;a href="http://richlandone.org" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           Horrell Hill Elementary
          &#xD;
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    &lt;a href="http://scbaptist.org" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           SC Baptist Convention
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    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;a href="http://imb.org" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           International Mission Board
          &#xD;
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    &lt;a href="http://namb.net" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           North American Mission Board
          &#xD;
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  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Cameron+DeBrew+Bio.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Blog+Post+Picture+2026+BBQ.png" length="1264671" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:38:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/more-than-barbecue-investing-in-gospel-ministry-together</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Missions BBQ,Church fundraiser,Baptist church,missions,Community outreach,Gospel ministry,Mission partners,Church volunteers,Local missions,Global missions,Hopkins SC,church,Beulah Baptist Church,Missions support,</g-custom:tags>
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    <item>
      <title>What Does It Mean to Be Partners in the Gospel?</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/partners-in-the-gospel</link>
      <description>A gospel-centered message from Philippians 1 on Christian fellowship, gospel partnership, salvation by grace, and unity in Christ.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
           Partners in the Gospel
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
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           What Truly Unites
            &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           Believers in Christ?
          &#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=philippians%201%3A3-6&amp;amp;version=ESV" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           Philippians 1:3-6
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
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           What truly unites believers together? Is it shared interests, personalities, traditions, or life experiences? In Philippians 1, Paul reminds us that the deepest fellowship Christians share is not built around preferences or common hobbies, but around the gospel of Jesus Christ. As we reflected on our Missions Barbecue and the gospel work it supports, we were reminded that God has not only saved us individually through Christ, but has also brought us together as partners in the gospel — united together to pray, serve, give, encourage one another, and advance the gospel for the glory of God.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
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           Gospel Partnership Matters
          &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           Coming off our Missions Barbecue, I wanted us to think beyond the food, the fellowship, and even the success of the event itself. Yes, the barbecue was good. It was a blessing watching so many people serve, work together, and enjoy the day. But ultimately, the day was not about barbecue and hash. It was about the gospel. It was about partnering together so the gospel could continue going forward through the ministries and gospel partners we support.
          &#xD;
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           That’s why we came to Philippians 1:3–6. Paul loved the Philippian church because they were true partners in the gospel. When he remembered them, he thanked God for them. When he prayed for them, he prayed with joy because their lives demonstrated genuine fellowship in Christ.
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  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
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           How God Built the Church at Philippi
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           We spent time walking back through Acts 16 to see how this church in Philippi even came to exist. God sovereignly directed Paul to Philippi by closing some doors and opening another. There by the riverside, God opened Lydia’s heart to believe the gospel. Later, after Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned, God used an earthquake to bring the Philippian jailer to salvation.
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           From the very beginning, this church displayed true gospel fellowship. Lydia opened her home. The jailer washed Paul’s wounds and cared for him. The Philippians continually supported Paul’s ministry through prayer, encouragement, and financial generosity. Their fellowship was not shallow or casual. It was rooted in Christ and centered on the advancement of the gospel.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
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           Salvation Is God’s Work
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           One of the major truths we talked about in this message is that salvation belongs to the Lord from beginning to end. Philippians 1:6 reminds us that “he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           We are not saved because we clean ourselves up or become righteous enough for God to accept us. We are saved through faith in Jesus Christ alone. God opens blind eyes to the gospel. God grants repentance and faith. God forgives sin through Christ. And God promises to complete the work He began in every true believer.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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           That gives believers confidence and assurance. If God truly began the work, He will finish it.
          &#xD;
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  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
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           What True Fellowship Looks Like
          &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Hopefully, this message challenged us to think carefully about what truly unites us as believers. Is our fellowship built mainly around personalities, hobbies, politics, preferences, or common interests? Or is the gospel our greatest shared value?
          &#xD;
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           True Christian fellowship should produce thankful hearts, joyful prayer for one another, encouragement in the faith, generosity toward gospel ministry, and conversations shaped by spiritual things. The gospel should define not only our eternal position in Christ, but also the way we practically live with one another as the people of God.
          &#xD;
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           My prayer is that this message encourages us to treasure the fellowship we share in Christ and to live out that gospel partnership faithfully until the day Jesus returns.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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           Key Takeaways
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            True fellowship is rooted in the gospel, not shared preferences.
            &#xD;
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        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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            God creates a people for Himself through salvation in Christ.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Salvation is God’s work from beginning to end.
            &#xD;
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        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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            God opens blind eyes to understand the gospel.
            &#xD;
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            Believers share eternal fellowship with one another in Christ.
            &#xD;
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        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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            Gospel partnership should produce prayer, care, and generosity.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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            The church should value gospel unity above worldly commonality.
            &#xD;
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        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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            Christians should encourage one another toward faithful gospel living.
            &#xD;
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        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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            Financial giving reveals what we value most.
            &#xD;
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        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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            God will complete the work of salvation He began in believers.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Life Application
          &#xD;
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  &lt;ol&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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            Evaluate whether your relationships with other believers are truly gospel-centered.
            &#xD;
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            Pray regularly for fellow believers and gospel partners.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Support gospel ministry joyfully and sacrificially.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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            Let spiritual conversations become a normal part of Christian fellowship.
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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            Rest confidently in God’s promise to complete the work He began in you..
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;/ol&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Gospel Connection
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           This message reminds us that salvation is God’s work from beginning to end. We are not saved by our goodness or works, but through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Jesus lived the righteous life we could never live, died for sinners on the cross, and rose again so that all who trust in Him can be forgiven and brought into fellowship with God.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Through the gospel, God not only saves individual believers, but also brings them together as partners in the gospel for His glory.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Thank you for reading this week’s sermon recap. We invite you to watch the full message, reflect on what true gospel fellowship looks like, and consider how God is calling you to live in unity with His people. If you do not know Christ, we would love to talk with you about the hope of the gospel and what it means to follow Jesus.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Partners+In+the+Gosel+Blog+Thumbnail.png" length="1025469" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 21:54:11 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/partners-in-the-gospel</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Practical Christianity,,Resurrection,Bible Study,Promises of God,Christian Living,Gospel,Scripture Application,Jesus Christ,Old Testament,Biblical Faith,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
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    <item>
      <title>How To Read the Bible and Actually Live It Out</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/how-to-read-the-bible-and-actually-live-it-out</link>
      <description>Learn how to read the Bible with confidence and apply God’s Word to everyday life through simple, practical steps for spiritual growth.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Simple Steps to Help God’s Word
            &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           Shape Your Heart and Your Actions.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Prayer+Blog+Picture.png"/&gt;&#xD;
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&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Have you ever thought, “I’ve been a Christian for years, but I still don’t really know how to read my Bible or apply it to my life”? If so, you’re not alone.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           A lot of Christians feel overwhelmed when they open the Bible. Some don’t know where to start. Others read it faithfully but struggle to connect what they read to everyday life.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The good news is this: Bible reading does not have to be complicated. You do not need a seminary degree to begin understanding and applying God’s Word. You just need a simple, consistent approach and a willingness to let God speak through Scripture.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           A great place to start is with the Gospel of John. John helps us see who Jesus is, why He came, and what it means to follow Him. Instead of trying to read huge sections at a time, slow down and focus on a few verses.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           For example, if you read John 15 where Jesus says, “I am the vine; you are the branches,” stop and think about what that means. Ask questions like:
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;ol&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            What does this teach me about Jesus?
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            What does this show me about my
             &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        
            relationship with Him?
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Am I trying to live spiritually disconnected from Christ?
           &#xD;
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  &lt;/ol&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           You may realize you’ve been relying on your own strength instead of staying close to God through prayer and His Word.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Or maybe you read Philippians 2 where Paul says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit.” That passage moves from information to application very quickly. You can ask:
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
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            How do I treat people at work or home?
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            How do I respond when I don’t get my way?
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            Am I serving others or mostly thinking about myself?
            &#xD;
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           Suddenly, the Bible is not just an ancient book—it is speaking directly into your life, your relationships, and your daily decisions.
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           Another helpful step is to look for one clear takeaway each time you read. Don’t try to apply everything at once. Focus on one thing.
           &#xD;
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           For instance:
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            If you read about forgiveness, maybe your application is reaching out to someone you’ve been avoiding, or someone who you have wronged.
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            If you read about anxiety, maybe your application is choosing prayer instead of panic when stress rises.
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            If you read about generosity, maybe your application is helping someone in need this week.
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           Small acts of obedience matter. Spiritual growth usually happens slowly, consistently, and faithfully over time.
          &#xD;
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           It’s also important to remember that application is not just about “doing more.” Sometimes the application is believing, and meditating on something more deeply. Maybe you need to believe that:
           &#xD;
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  &lt;ul&gt;&#xD;
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            God truly forgives you,
            &#xD;
        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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            He is still faithful in suffering,
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            Your identity is in Christ and not in your failures,
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            God is worthy of your trust even when life feels uncertain.
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           After you read, spend a few moments praying through what you learned. Talk to God honestly about it. Write down what you have learned in a journal so that you can see how you have grown spiritually over time.
          &#xD;
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            You might pray something like this:
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    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           “Lord, help me not just read this passage but live it. Show me where I need to grow. Give me wisdom, conviction, and strength to obey You today.”
          &#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           Over time, you’ll begin to notice that Scripture shapes the way you think, respond, speak, and live.
          &#xD;
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           And remember this: the goal of Bible reading is not simply to finish a chapter. The goal is to know God more deeply and be transformed by His truth.
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           So start small, read slowly, ask questions, pray through it, and look for one takeaway.
           &#xD;
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           Then take one step of obedience.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           One verse at a time. One day at a time.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           God uses those small faithful moments to change our lives.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           It is our desire that you to grow spiritually and that you cling tightly to the very Words of God found in your Bible. May God bless you and encourage you through this journey.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           We invite you to join us for Bible study and for worship. Visit our website to find our location and to find opportunities to grow with us.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Cameron+DeBrew+Bio.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
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      <pubDate>Sat, 30 May 2026 22:43:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/how-to-read-the-bible-and-actually-live-it-out</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">New Christians,Bible Reading,Bible Study,Applying Scripture,Christian Living,Spiritual Growth,Devotional Life,Faith,Following Jesus,Christian Discipleship,Gospel,Daily Bible Reading,Understanding the Bible,Practical Christianity,Christian Encouragement,Prayer and Bible Study,Growing in Faith,Scripture Application,Walking with God,New Christians,Christian Basics,,Bible Study,Daily Bible Reading,Christian Encouragement,Following Jesus,Spiritual Growth,Faith,Biblical Faith,Christian Discipleship,Jesus Christ,Christian Basics,Bible Reading,Devotional Life,Walking with God,Christian Living,Understanding the Bible,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
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      <title>What if God Is Working Through Your Pain? | Genesis 50:15–21</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/what-if-god-is-working-through-your-pain-genesis-50-1521</link>
      <description>What if God is working through your pain? Learn how Joseph’s story reveals God’s sovereignty, forgiveness, and gospel hope.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h5&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           How God Uses Hurt, Betrayal,
            &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      
           and Brokenness for Good
          &#xD;
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  &lt;/h5&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
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           In Genesis 50:15–21, Joseph’s brothers fear that after Jacob’s death, Joseph may finally repay them for the evil they committed against him. Years earlier, they had betrayed Joseph, sold him into slavery, and caused deep pain. But Joseph responds not with revenge, but with forgiveness, kindness, and confidence in the sovereign hand of God.
           &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           Joseph does not pretend their sin was small. He says plainly, “You meant evil against me.” But he also sees something greater: “God meant it for good.” This message reminds us that evil is still evil, pain is still real, and forgiveness is not easy. Yet God is able to work even through what others meant for harm to accomplish His good purposes.
           &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           Joseph’s forgiveness was rooted in his trust in God. He knew vengeance belonged to the Lord. He knew God had used even his suffering to preserve life and fulfill His promises. Because Joseph trusted the sovereignty of God, he was free to forgive his brothers and show them kindness.
          &#xD;
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           This message also points us to the gospel. We are not mainly Joseph in this story. Before God, we are more like Joseph’s brothers. We have sinned greatly and need forgiveness. Yet in Christ, God has forgiven our great debt. Jesus was betrayed, rejected, and crucified, but through the cross God accomplished the greatest good: the salvation of sinners.
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           Because we have been forgiven in Christ, we are called to forgive others. Forgiveness is not rooted in self-help or simply “letting go” for our own peace. Christian forgiveness flows from the gospel. We forgive because God in Christ has forgiven us.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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           Key Takeaways
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            Guilt over sin is hard to let go of, even when forgiveness has been offered.
           &#xD;
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            Vengeance belongs to God, not to us.
           &#xD;
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    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
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            Forgiveness is rooted in the gospel, not self-help.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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            Joseph recognized God’s sovereign hand even in suffering.
           &#xD;
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            Evil remains evil, but God can still use it for good.
           &#xD;
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      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Christians forgive because they have been forgiven in Christ.
           &#xD;
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            God’s sovereignty gives believers freedom from bitterness and revenge.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            The cross is the greatest example of God using evil to accomplish good.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            Our hope rests on God’s unchanging Word, not changing emotions.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/li&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;li&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
        
            God works all things together for the good of His people.
            &#xD;
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        &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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           Life Application
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            Refuse to take revenge when you are wronged and trust God with justice.
           &#xD;
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            Forgive others the same way God has forgiven you in Christ.
           &#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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            Remember that your feelings do not determine whether you are forgiven. God’s Word does.
           &#xD;
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            Look for God’s sovereign work even in painful seasons of life.
           &#xD;
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            Show kindness and compassion to those who have hurt you.
            &#xD;
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  &lt;/ul&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
           Gospel Connection
           &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Joseph’s story reminds us that God can redeem what others meant for evil. But the greater Joseph is Jesus Christ. He was rejected, betrayed, falsely accused, and crucified, yet God used the greatest evil in history to accomplish the greatest act of grace the world has ever known.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           At the cross, Jesus paid the debt of sin for all who trust in Him. Through His death and resurrection, sinners can be forgiven, declared righteous, and given eternal life. If God can bring salvation through the cross, then His people can trust Him even when they cannot yet see what He is doing through their pain.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
      
           Watch the Full Sermon
          &#xD;
    &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Have questions about forgiveness, suffering, or trusting God through pain? Watch the full sermon and reflect on Genesis 50:15–21. If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope today..
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Ken+Addison+Bio-6f53405d.png" alt=""/&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 19:52:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/what-if-god-is-working-through-your-pain-genesis-50-1521</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Resurrection,Promises of God,Christian Living,Gospel,Covenant Promises Heaven Eternal Life,Eternal Hope,Jesus Christ,Old Testament,Biblical Faith,Genesis 50,Joseph Faith</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/c41e5efe/dms3rep/multi/Evil+Turned+for+Good+Sermon+Thumbnail.png">
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      <title>How Genesis Points Us to Hope Beyond Death | Genesis 50:22-26</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/genesis-ends-with-a-coffin-but-also-hope</link>
      <description>Genesis 50:22–26 shows Joseph’s faith in God’s promises and points believers to the eternal hope found in Jesus Christ beyond death.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
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           Genesis Ends With a Coffin - But Also Hope!
          &#xD;
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&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Sermon reflection on Genesis 50, Joseph’s final request, and the hope God gives beyond death. Joseph’s final words in Genesis 50 remind believers that God always keeps His promises and that this world is not our home.
           &#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Genesis ends with a coffin in Egypt, but it also ends with hope. In this final message from Genesis 50, we see Joseph standing firm in faith even at the end of his life. Though surrounded by Egypt’s power, wealth, and influence, Joseph’s hope was never rooted there. His confidence rested in the promises of God. This message challenges us to ask where our hope, identity, and future truly rest and reminds us that God’s people are still living by faith in His promises today.
          &#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
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      &lt;br/&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           Sermon Summary
          &#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           As Genesis comes to a close, Joseph reminds his brothers that God will surely visit His people and bring them into the land He promised Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Even though Joseph had lived most of his life in Egypt and held great power there, he never considered Egypt his home. His final request was not for a grand Egyptian burial, but that his bones would one day be carried into Canaan when God fulfilled His covenant promises.
           &#xD;
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           The sermon highlights Joseph’s unwavering faith in God’s promises despite suffering, temptation, loss, and life in a pagan culture. Joseph trusted that God would keep His word even when he could not yet see its fulfillment. His coffin became a testimony to future generations that God could be trusted and that Egypt was not their final home.
           &#xD;
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    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      
           The message then points to the greater hope found in Christ. Just as Joseph’s coffin reminded Israel of God’s promises, the empty tomb of Jesus reminds believers that this world is not our home and that eternal life awaits all who trust in Christ. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, sin, Satan, and death have been defeated.
           &#xD;
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           Genesis ends with death because sin entered the world in the garden, but throughout Genesis God was unfolding His plan of redemption through Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Judah, and ultimately Jesus Christ. The message closes with the reminder that believers today live with the same kind of hope Joseph had — trusting the sure promises of God while awaiting the fulfillment of eternal life in Christ.
          &#xD;
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            Joseph trusted God’s covenant promises even at the end of his life.
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            God’s people must never treat this world as their permanent home.
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            Biblical faith is confidence in the promises of God, not wishful thinking.
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            Trials and worldly pressures do not have to destroy faith.
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            The empty tomb of Jesus guarantees eternal hope for believers.
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            Genesis reveals God’s sovereign plan of redemption through Christ.
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            The legacy believers leave behind should point others toward faith in God.
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           Discussion &amp;amp; Reflection Questions
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            Why was it important to Joseph that his bones be carried to Canaan instead of buried permanently in Egypt?
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            In what ways are believers today tempted to treat this world like their permanent home?
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            How does the resurrection of Jesus give believers confidence in difficult seasons of life?
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            What kind of spiritual legacy are you leaving behind for your family and others?
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            How does the story of Genesis ultimately point us to Jesus and the gospel?
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           Gospel Connection
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           The message of Genesis ultimately points to Jesus Christ. From the promise in Genesis 3:15 to the covenant promises given to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, God was unfolding His plan to send a Savior who would defeat sin, Satan, and death. Jesus came as the promised offspring who lived perfectly, died for sinners, and rose again. Through faith in Him, believers receive forgiveness, righteousness, eternal life, and the hope of a restored creation. Just as Joseph trusted God’s promises about a future inheritance, believers today trust God’s promises fulfilled through Christ.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2026 19:01:27 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/genesis-ends-with-a-coffin-but-also-hope</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Genesis 50,Joseph Faith,Promises of God,Eternal Hope,Gospel,Jesus Christ,Resurrection,Christian Living,Old Testament,Biblical Faith,Covenant Promises Heaven Eternal Life</g-custom:tags>
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      <title>Don’t Get Comfortable Here… This World Is Not Your Home</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/dont-get-comfortable-here-this-world-is-not-your-home</link>
      <description>Genesis 47 reminds us this world is not our home. Trust God’s promises, depend on His provision, and live for Christ’s kingdom.</description>
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           Trusting God’s Promises While Living as Sojourners in This World
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           What do you hold on to when life feels uncertain, painful, or temporary? In Genesis 47, famine covers the land, people are desperate for survival, and Jacob nears the end of his life. Yet through hardship, God is still fulfilling His promises. This message reminds us that God provides for His people, calls us to faithful living, and points our hearts toward a greater home that is still to come.
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           Sermon Summary
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           Genesis 47 shows the severity of the famine in Egypt and Canaan as people desperately seek food in order to survive. Joseph wisely administers the resources of Egypt during the famine, gathering money, livestock, land, and eventually the service of the people in exchange for grain. Yet the passage does not portray Joseph as harsh or exploitative. Instead, he acts with wisdom, justice, and generosity. Even while serving Pharaoh’s interests, Joseph maintains righteous character and faithfully represents the character of God before the world.
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           The sermon emphasizes humanity’s dependence upon God for daily provision. Just as the people of Egypt depended upon grain to live, we depend completely upon God for every good thing. The message continually points listeners back to gratitude, faithful worship, and lives that match the gospel we proclaim. Joseph becomes an example of someone who blessed the world while maintaining integrity and faithfulness to God.
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           The focus then shifts to Jacob and the growing nation of Israel in Egypt. Though God’s promises seemed delayed, God was still at work multiplying His people in unexpected ways. Jacob’s desire to be buried in Canaan revealed his faith that Egypt was not his true home and that God would fulfill His covenant promises. Even at the end of his life, Jacob worshiped in faith and looked ahead to the promises of God.
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           Ultimately, the sermon points to Jesus Christ as the greater Savior. Joseph saved people from physical starvation, but Jesus saves sinners from spiritual death. Through Christ’s death and resurrection, believers receive peace with God and the promise of an eternal inheritance in the true promised land—the new heavens and new earth. Christians are called to live as faithful sojourners whose hope is not in this world, but in the eternal kingdom of Christ.
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           Key Takeaways
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            God is the ultimate provider of every daily need and blessing.
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            Joseph demonstrated wisdom, integrity, justice, and generosity during a national crisis.
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            Christians are called to bless the world while reflecting the character of God.
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            God’s promises may seem delayed, but He is always faithful to fulfill them.
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            Jacob’s desire to be buried in Canaan showed his faith that Egypt was not his true home.
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            Believers are citizens of a greater kingdom and should live with eternal priorities.
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            Jesus Christ saves sinners from spiritual death and gives eternal peace with God.
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           Discussion &amp;amp; Reflection Questions
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            How does the famine in Genesis 47 remind us of our dependence upon God for daily provision?
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            What stands out to you about Joseph’s character and leadership during a difficult season?
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            In what ways can Christians bless the world while still remaining faithful to God’s truth?
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            Why was Jacob so determined to be buried in Canaan instead of Egypt?
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            What does it look like to live as a “sojourner” whose true citizenship is in heaven?
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           Gospel Connection
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           Joseph saved people from physical starvation during the famine, but this passage ultimately points us to Jesus Christ, the greater Savior. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus provides salvation from sin and eternal death. Because Christ took the wrath sinners deserved, all who repent and trust in Him are forgiven, declared righteous, and given an eternal inheritance with God forever. Like Jacob, believers live looking toward a better country and a greater promised land that Christ has secured for His people.
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            ﻿
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      <pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 20:19:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/dont-get-comfortable-here-this-world-is-not-your-home</guid>
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      <title>A Thankful Journey</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/a-thankful-journey</link>
      <description>Reflect on 30 years of growth &amp; community at Beulah Church.</description>
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           Looking Back on 30 Years
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           I want to take this opportunity to thank you for the wonderful weekend you prepared in recognizing my 30-year anniversary at Beulah. It was such a special day for me and my family. Thank you for all the planning, the decorations, the power point, the delicious meal, the sweet fellowship, the “special guests”, and yes, even the entertainment. It was all so meaningful.
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           As I think about the days of late 1992 when I was finishing up my time inn seminary and looking for a church to serve, I remember very clearly the phone calls I had with J Thompson who was the pastor at aa church in Hopkins, SC. A place I had never heard of and literally a place that I could not find on a map. (Yes, we used maps in 1992). Pastor J was a voice in the wilderness for us as we sought God’s next step in our journey. We had several phone conversations with Pastor J, we spoke to the search committee a couple of times, and we arranged for personal interview. All of that went well and Beulah brought Donna and I down to Hopkins to have some more conversations, pray together, meet some of the congregation, and ultimately present me to the church for consideration as their Minister of Music and Education. Those days and conversations, and faces are crystal clear in my mind all these years later.
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           That congregation took a chance on me, a 28-year-old, newly graduated, inexperienced minister. They loved us, accepted us, encouraged us, and fed us. We did not know a single person in the community, but we were accepted as family. They became our parents, our grandparents, and our babysitters. They taught us about the church, the community, and the surrounding area. They taught us about life, they taught us about marriage, and they taught us about being a parent. They guided and grew me spiritually. I had the opportunity to be a part of their personal and family celebrations and I also had the opportunity to grieve with them and cry with them. All that grew me as a pastor. Many of those faces are no longer with us. All those wonderful people that invest greatly in this church and in my life. I miss them dearly and wish that they could have been present to celebrate this milestone with us.
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           To this congregation, you revealed a calling in my life that I did not know existed. You saw something in me that I did not know was there. Through your prayers and willingness to follow God wherever He led, you saw that God had kept Ken and I here on staff for so many years. You were willing to think outside of the box in leadership structure and present me with the opportunity to be your Lead Pastor. Those days, and those conversations were life altering for me. I am writing this article sitting in a chair that I never considered and behind a desk that I never sought after. It was NEVER in my plan to be serving in the capacity that you have called me to serve. You have been patient with me, you have been gracious, loving, and supportive. I am very grateful to you and for you. God has certainly used you to influence the path of my life.
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           Like the children’s story about the little train that could, here we are 30 years later pushing every day in every decision to know Jesus and make Him known, (toot-toot).
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           ​
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           I love you all so much. Sunday was a monumental day for me, and my family and I believe it was a monumental day for our congregation. God is to be celebrated for His goodness and His grace on this congregation for so many years. I am looking forward to the coming days and years.
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      <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jun 2023 15:49:54 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>cameron@beulahbaptist.com (Cameron DeBrew)</author>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/a-thankful-journey</guid>
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      <title>Spring Cleaning and Newness of Life</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/spring-cleaning-and-newness-of-life</link>
      <description>Explore spiritual renewal this spring. Join us for Sunday services &amp; small group studies to grow in faith.</description>
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           Your life – my life needs a spring cleaning.
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           Why is it around this time every year we feel an urge to clean? We seem to be hardwired to start cleaning up our yards and our homes just as the weather gets warmer and the grass gets greener. We get rid of the old and replace it with the new? New bushes, new paint, new clothes. The former things are replaced, maybe as a sign that we are longing for what is coming. We are anticipating Spring. Warmer weather, vacations, planting a garden. There is excitement and our lives are altered to prepare. There is a sense of urgency because we know that the newness of Spring is coming.
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           We are currently in the process of changing our Church Management Software and in order to bring our existing data into the new system, we are having to clean it up. We are having to look through every line and entry to see if it is good data or if it is outdated. We certainly do not want to bring old, out of date, inaccurate data into the new system.
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           ​
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           If you are still reading, this is where I turn from this pleasant conversation and start meddling in your spiritual life. When is the last time you spent any time looking through your life to see what belonged and what did not belong? My guess is that it has been awhile. The things that are in our Christian lives that do not belong are kind of like the stuff cluttering your closets. We know that it is there, but we have just gotten used to it. It serves no purpose and is only taking up space.
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           As we celebrate the resurrection of Christ in the coming weeks, let me remind you as a believer what scripture says about the junk in your life.
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           2 Corinthians 5:17
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           “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
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           Romans 6:4
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           "We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life."
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           Isaiah 43:19
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           "Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."
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           1 Peter 1:3
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            “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,”
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            As believers, we are raised to walk in newness of life. Newness requires space to grow, it requires full faith in the hope of Christ. When you are in Christ, you are given a new identity. You are no longer your own, you belong to Christ. Here is what God declares about you:
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            "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy."
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           1 Peter 2:9-10
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           Robert B. Kruschwitz gives this perspective: “Christ’s resurrection guides us into “newness of life,” which is life here and now, but with a new, eschatological dimension. We examine everything we feel, think, and do from a new perspective that takes our present bodies, our resurrectional bodies, and Christ’s body (which is the Church) ever more seriously.”
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           Are you walking in newness of life? Is your full identity in Christ’s death and resurrection? Are you striving to continually identify and evaluate the worldly labels and identities that you are holding on to so tightly? Your life – my life needs a spring cleaning. We are hoarding junk in our lives that is in contradiction to the new life that Christ has called us to.
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           Pastor Cameron
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           Raised to Walk in Newness of Life: Robert B. Kruschwitz; Copyright © 2014 Institute for Faith and Learning at Baylor University
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      <pubDate>Wed, 29 Mar 2023 16:34:56 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/spring-cleaning-and-newness-of-life</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Bible Reading,Bible Study,Christian Discipleship,Biblical Faith,Christian Basics,Applying Scripture</g-custom:tags>
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      <title>Pray Like Daniel</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/pray-like-daniel</link>
      <description>Learn to pray earnestly like Daniel this Easter. Join us for community prayer and seek salvation through Jesus Christ.</description>
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           Cry out in anguish that the truth of the gospel be revealed.
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           With Easter only a few weeks away, I want to encourage you to earnestly pray for our families, our community, and our world to cling to the salvation that is only available to us through the good news of Jesus! As I write this, I am also preparing for our Wednesday evening Bible study. In 
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           Daniel Chapter 9
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           , there is a beautiful payer of confession, petition, and praise. It is Daniel pouring out his heart to God on the behalf of the sinful, unrepentant Jewish people. Not only for the sins and rebellion of the Jewish people but also for his own sinfulness. This is a prelude to the prayer that Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane prior to His arrest and crucifixion. It was Jesus pouring out in anguish and passion a night-long prayer on behalf of not just the Jewish people, or for Himself, but for all the peoples of the world. Just listen to the language of the prayer Daniel prays starting in verse 16: “O Lord, according to all your righteous acts, let your anger and your wrath turn away from your city Jerusalem, your holy hill, because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and your people have become a byword among all who are around us. 17 Now therefore, O our God, listen to the prayer of your servant and to his pleas for mercy, and for your own sake, O Lord, make your face to shine upon your sanctuary, which is desolate. 18 O my God, incline your ear and hear. Open your eyes and see our desolations, and the city that is called by your name. For we do not present our pleas before you because of our righteousness, but because of your great mercy. 19 O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive. O Lord, pay attention and act. Delay not, for your own sake, O my God, because your city and your people are called by your name.”
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           Do your prayers sound like this? I must admit that mine do not. I typically find myself praying very selfish prayers that will improve my circumstances, or my health, or my financial situation. Daniel prays scripture. He says back to God the things that God has revealed about Himself and the promises that He has made with His people, Israel. This is how we should pray. We should be so consumed and familiar with God's word that it is natural for us to say back to God what He has already said. To speak the characteristics of God and the will of God for His people reminds us of the sovereignty of God.
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           I ask you to cry out in anguish for your families, for your neighborhoods, for your community, your state, your country, and the world that the truth of the gospel be revealed. Pray for repentance and for faithfulness. Pray that God would be patient, merciful, and gracious to His people, but with the overriding theme: Not my will, Lord, but Yours be done.
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           Pastor Cameron
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      <pubDate>Tue, 28 Feb 2023 17:43:42 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/pray-like-daniel</guid>
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      <title>Seek First the Kingdom</title>
      <link>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/seek-first-the-kingdom</link>
      <description>Join us to engage in evangelism &amp; ministry. Be part of our community this Sunday!</description>
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             As believers, we are all called to advance the Kingdom. We are all called to “labor in the harvest.”
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            Seems like the older I get; the faster time passes. Is that true for you? I cannot believe that we are in the year 2022, but here we are. I am excited about the coming year for our congregation as we seek to engage our community and our world with the Good News of Jesus Christ. For the first time in 15 years, we are headed into a new year without debt! I am so encouraged that our 2022 budget reflects this congregation’s heart for evangelism, discipleship, and ministry.
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           Our 2022 calendar is already beginning to fill up with many ministry opportunities throughout our community, and many mission opportunities here at home and around the world. We are looking forward to continuing to come alongside of our many ministry partners and our community partner. We are also excited about the addition of several new partnerships that will begin this year.
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           God has poised this congregation to engage this community with the hope of the Gospel like never before. Jesus says in Matthew 9:37-38 “Then he (Jesus) said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 
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           therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” We cannot approach this new year convincing ourselves that this world will not respond to the truth of the Gospel. Nor can we convince ourselves that we do not have a responsibility on the work. We do, personally and corporately. As believers, we are all called to advance the Kingdom. We are all called to “labor in the harvest.” The good news is that the harvest is not only ready, but also “plentiful”. That means that God has already gone before us changing people’s hearts so that they will respond to the saving power of the Gospel. Our work is not in vain. It will produce lasting results. This verse is saying to me that the church is not seeing the harvest God is providing because we as a church are not laboring in the fields to gather the harvest. The harvest is there, and it is ripe, and it is plentiful.
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           My prayer for you and for this congregation is that we continue to keep our focus and our gaze on Jesus and Jesus alone. That we “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness...” I truly believe that if we do, God will use us in ways that we cannot even imagine.
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           May God bless us as we enter this new year with anticipation and with obedience. I love you all and it is a great pleasure to serve alongside of you in the harvest.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 20 Jan 2022 19:40:16 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.beulahbaptist.com/seek-first-the-kingdom</guid>
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