Excel Still More

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/249323/open_sms] Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below: Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Daily-Bible-Devotional-Spiritual-Companion/dp/B0DNCWN59K/ref=sr_1_1?crid=28KAKJOTMDZ6Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.eaebaT0DHi8d7r_Qj5ShmognPh2Kjlbtl6owsC-hT7NhALsvDSIKsdDDnuIpjJfwywywo-i1lDtqhtdMxL5_X9vjfpowFNH4ITyIkwkzgO46KEiNCztFjyumlJGcVSGbuN6FiTTctnn3YwTba4Ak5IWRnGEc_51i90DF4BNfm39vGzys4bHxI3NjUfv7SxxfiqFQsmwXDhKzSZ038tg8M1KqtTeyrKzUTUeEB83Tq30.fr4R6A7w1foHng3fGOlkUibzwuBN5v8gCOVMNnZW95E&dib_tag=se&keywords=kris+emerson&qid=1732565064&sprefix=kris+emerson%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-1] - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle) Spiritbuilding.com [https://spiritbuilding.com/products/excel-still-more-daily-bible-devotional-volume-1-the-four-gospels?_pos=1&_sid=c1d1fe652&_ss=r] - (premium quality paperback) Youtube Video [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxpdMVTgKfo] Introducing the Content Feel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.com I Corinthians 4   The apostles of Christ should not be viewed as exalted leaders, but rather as servants and stewards of God’s mysteries. They are subject to God’s examination, just like everyone else. Paul reminds the Corinthians that faithfulness to God is what truly matters, not the judgments or opinions of others. Genuine evaluation belongs to the Lord, who will illuminate hidden things and unveil the intentions of the heart. Paul cautions against pride and boasting in human leaders, urging humility by reminding them that everything they possess is a gift from God. Apostles are examples of suffering and perseverance, often regarded as “fools for Christ” while demonstrating God’s power. Paul encourages the Corinthians to follow his example, living humbly and faithfully under God’s authority, for they are ultimately accountable to Him alone.   Judgment and approval belong to the Lord in every situation. This absolute truth carries two important implications. First, we do not have the right to determine our own righteousness. God examines each of us, and His conclusions supersede our own. Second, and hopefully obviously, we do not pass judgment upon other believers. They will answer to God, and His praise is all that matters in the end. Unfortunately, some Corinthians have become prideful and even judge the apostles as less than themselves, despite Paul and others having done so much for God and for them. There is no room for such arrogance in the kingdom. We should emulate the faithfulness of the apostles and the humble, active servants among us.    Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us through Your Word that we are stewards of Your mysteries. Help us remain faithful to You in all things, seeking Your approval above the opinions of others. Teach us humility, reminding us that everything we have is a gift from You. Strengthen us to endure challenges and reflect Christ’s love, even when faced with opposition or ridicule. May we follow the example of faithful servants like Paul, living for Your glory and not our own. Reveal to us the intentions of our hearts and guide us to walk in humble obedience to You.    Thought Questions:   -       If God’s judgment about you is more important than how you see yourself, how do you determine what God desires from You as His servant?   -       Why is it so tempting to demean others and elevate yourself? What do you usually miss about yourself and the other person when you do this?   -       What would happen if we spent less time in pride or jealousy toward others and more time emulating the godliness we see in them?

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/249323/open_sms] Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below: Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Daily-Bible-Devotional-Spiritual-Companion/dp/B0DNCWN59K/ref=sr_1_1?crid=28KAKJOTMDZ6Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.eaebaT0DHi8d7r_Qj5ShmognPh2Kjlbtl6owsC-hT7NhALsvDSIKsdDDnuIpjJfwywywo-i1lDtqhtdMxL5_X9vjfpowFNH4ITyIkwkzgO46KEiNCztFjyumlJGcVSGbuN6FiTTctnn3YwTba4Ak5IWRnGEc_51i90DF4BNfm39vGzys4bHxI3NjUfv7SxxfiqFQsmwXDhKzSZ038tg8M1KqtTeyrKzUTUeEB83Tq30.fr4R6A7w1foHng3fGOlkUibzwuBN5v8gCOVMNnZW95E&dib_tag=se&keywords=kris+emerson&qid=1732565064&sprefix=kris+emerson%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-1] - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle) Spiritbuilding.com [https://spiritbuilding.com/products/excel-still-more-daily-bible-devotional-volume-1-the-four-gospels?_pos=1&_sid=c1d1fe652&_ss=r] - (premium quality paperback) Youtube Video [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxpdMVTgKfo] Introducing the Content Feel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.com I Corinthians 3 In Corinth, divisions arise as believers align themselves with leaders like Paul or Apollos. Paul addresses the church, explaining that these leaders are merely servants, while God is the one who causes growth. He compares the church to a field, where one plants and another waters, but God gives the increase. Paul then describes the church as a building, with Christ as the only foundation. He warns that each person’s work will be tested by fire to reveal its true quality. Paul reminds them they are God’s temple, where the Holy Spirit dwells. He calls them to reject worldly wisdom and to boast only in Christ, who unites them. Through this teaching, Paul urges the Corinthians to seek unity, build wisely, and glorify God in all things. Paul yearns to share deeper insights with the Corinthians, but their spiritual growth is hindered by jealousy, strife, and division. These issues serve as a warning for us to guard against such attitudes in our own lives. Instead, we should concentrate on humility, loving others, and pursuing unity, which opens the door for God’s truths and works to flourish within us. Christ is our unshakable foundation, and proclaiming Him is our mission. While some will grow and thrive, others may falter, but our responsibility is to remain faithful, humble, and service-oriented throughout the journey. In His wisdom, God is in control, and He will provide the increase. Our boasting is in His strength, not in ourselves or anyone else.    Compassionate God, please be patient with us. Weaknesses such as jealousy and bitterness attempt to infiltrate our hearts and fellowship, and sometimes we stumble. Help us refocus on the grace of Jesus and renew our hearts to discover deeper spiritual truths and remain steadfast in the ministry. Some of our efforts will endure, while others may falter, but we trust that You are with us and will provide growth as You see fit. Strengthen us to trust You and humbly continue being a temple of the Holy Spirit, a community where the world can find the Spirit, the Son, and You.     Thought Questions:   -       The Corinthian division was seeded in jealousy and strife. What helps you keep those emotions from living within your heart?   -       Evangelism is emotional. Some come to Christ and stay, while others fall away. How do you stay encouraged to remain active no matter what?   -       “Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” What is this indwelling, and how does it affect you?

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/249323/open_sms] What is the difference between saving belief and insufficient belief? The answer is found all across the Gospel of John, and particularly in the story of the Pharisees approaching Jesus with a woman caught in adultery. Which one are you? The outline for that study: The Pharisees' Belief was in Vain - Believe in God and Scripture - Desired a Messiah of their Making - Resisted Jesus when He Opposed Them - Paraded a YOJ life, missing the Heart of Truth True Believers Know they Need Jesus - I have sinned and need help - I will compare myself to no one - My walk without Jesus leads to shame - Until I know I'm blind, I will never see Light Jesus Blesses and then Challenges Believers - He freed her from condemnation - He challenged her to honor this gift - Her belief in His power to forgive was vital - Her changed life would demonstrate True Belief Oh, and here are the lyrics to IN NEED: In need of grace, in need of love In need of mercy raining down from high above In need of strength, in need of peace In need of things that only You can give to me In need of Christ, the perfect Lamb My refuge strong, the great I Am This is my song, my humble plea I am Your child, I am in need In need of grace, in need of love In need of mercy raining down from high above In need of strength, in need of peace In need of things that only You can give to me In need of Christ, the perfect Lamb My refuge strong, the great I Am This is my song, my humble plea I am Your child, I am in need In need of Christ, the perfect Lamb My refuge strong, the great I Am This is my song, my humble plea I am Your child, I am in need I am Your child, I am in need     Daily Bible Devotional (Volumes 1 and 2): Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Daily-Bible-Devotional-Corinthians-Galatians/dp/B0F227FT2Y/ref=sr_1_1?crid=15NVDZ2BJYD3H&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.51QGb5nGOYwKxT7RsG3S9Fm2gFWIcFbucVhDd_H-eL8VWCaK9TNPbmr0MT9U-nuklvIMzeb0tJwRCIXxWGOKCbAc9uMSeGAEUJhWNOocXdySy2EKPNq16CT6ysTah_DU.KEXc9dJjddJ9qveqxDQpwB1tRCRi6ah2u503tiiYJag&dib_tag=se&keywords=kris+emerson&qid=1742599060&sprefix=kris+emerson%2Caps%2C145&sr=8-1] - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle) Sponsors:  Jon Cunningham, Owner, Cunningham Financial Group Website:  www.cunninghamfinancialgroup.com [http://cunninghamfinancialgroup.com/]    Phone:  205-326-7364 Tyler Cain, Senior Loan Officer, Statewide Mortgage Websites: https://statewidemortgage.com/ [https://statewidemortgage.com/] https://tylercain.floify.com/ [https://tylercain.floify.com/] Phone: 813-380-8487

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/249323/open_sms] Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below: Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Daily-Bible-Devotional-Spiritual-Companion/dp/B0DNCWN59K/ref=sr_1_1?crid=28KAKJOTMDZ6Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.eaebaT0DHi8d7r_Qj5ShmognPh2Kjlbtl6owsC-hT7NhALsvDSIKsdDDnuIpjJfwywywo-i1lDtqhtdMxL5_X9vjfpowFNH4ITyIkwkzgO46KEiNCztFjyumlJGcVSGbuN6FiTTctnn3YwTba4Ak5IWRnGEc_51i90DF4BNfm39vGzys4bHxI3NjUfv7SxxfiqFQsmwXDhKzSZ038tg8M1KqtTeyrKzUTUeEB83Tq30.fr4R6A7w1foHng3fGOlkUibzwuBN5v8gCOVMNnZW95E&dib_tag=se&keywords=kris+emerson&qid=1732565064&sprefix=kris+emerson%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-1] - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle) Spiritbuilding.com [https://spiritbuilding.com/products/excel-still-more-daily-bible-devotional-volume-1-the-four-gospels?_pos=1&_sid=c1d1fe652&_ss=r] - (premium quality paperback) Youtube Video [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxpdMVTgKfo] Introducing the Content Feel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.com I Corinthians 2   The gospel of Jesus Christ does not require special people or eloquent speech. In fact, such things can distract from the power of God. The solution is to centralize all teaching and honor upon “Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.” God’s power supports our faith, not the wisdom of men or the abilities of any individual. Unfortunately, this power is hidden from the people of the world, not by God’s will, but because of their hard hearts and closed ears. For those willing to hear the truth, the Holy Spirit has gifted them teachings from the mind of the heavenly Father. The “natural man” will not accept them, nor is he able to do so. However, he who evaluates things spiritually will know God’s mind and be saved through His Son.   As Christians, our hope rests fully in the Lord Jesus Christ. While we value teachers who help us grow in faith, they must never replace Christ as our ultimate source of strength. We appreciate those who guide us to the Lord, regardless of their abilities. Understanding God’s will is a privilege once hidden but now revealed through Christ. For unbelievers, it remains a mystery, but for us, it is a profound blessing to know the mind of our Creator. Through the Holy Spirit and the teachings of apostles and prophets, we are guided in truth. We should eagerly seek God’s Word daily, allowing it to shape our spiritual journey and draw us closer to Him.   Loving Lord, thank You for revealing Your wisdom and truth through Your Spirit. Help us not to rely on human understanding, but on the guidance of Your Spirit as given through Your apostles and prophets. Fill us with humility and a desire to grow closer to You each day. Teach us to seek Your Word, not the words of men, and let it transform our thoughts and actions. Please grant us the mind of Christ, so we may walk obediently, reflecting His love and wisdom in all we do. We will dedicate time to contemplating spiritual truths in Jesus’ name.    Thought Questions:   -       How can you know if a teacher is working with pure motives? What will be central in their teaching as the strongest evidence of integrity?   -       If the wisdom of God has never aligned with the world's wisdom, what should your attitude be toward counter-culture aspects of the faith?   -       Is it scary to realize that the “natural man” cannot discern spiritual things? How do you protect against becoming such a person?

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/249323/open_sms] Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below: Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Daily-Bible-Devotional-Spiritual-Companion/dp/B0DNCWN59K/ref=sr_1_1?crid=28KAKJOTMDZ6Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.eaebaT0DHi8d7r_Qj5ShmognPh2Kjlbtl6owsC-hT7NhALsvDSIKsdDDnuIpjJfwywywo-i1lDtqhtdMxL5_X9vjfpowFNH4ITyIkwkzgO46KEiNCztFjyumlJGcVSGbuN6FiTTctnn3YwTba4Ak5IWRnGEc_51i90DF4BNfm39vGzys4bHxI3NjUfv7SxxfiqFQsmwXDhKzSZ038tg8M1KqtTeyrKzUTUeEB83Tq30.fr4R6A7w1foHng3fGOlkUibzwuBN5v8gCOVMNnZW95E&dib_tag=se&keywords=kris+emerson&qid=1732565064&sprefix=kris+emerson%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-1] - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle) Spiritbuilding.com [https://spiritbuilding.com/products/excel-still-more-daily-bible-devotional-volume-1-the-four-gospels?_pos=1&_sid=c1d1fe652&_ss=r] - (premium quality paperback) Youtube Video [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxpdMVTgKfo] Introducing the Content Feel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.com I Corinthians 1   The apostle Paul writes to the church in Corinth in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, addressing their divisions and calling them to unity in the gospel. Paul reminds them of their calling to be sanctified in Christ and to live as saints, relying on the grace and strength of God. He emphasizes that Christ is the source of wisdom, righteousness, and redemption, urging them to focus on the cross rather than human wisdom or eloquence. Paul laments their divisions, as some align themselves with specific leaders instead of Christ. He stresses that the message of the cross may seem foolish to the world, but it is the power of God to those being saved. Paul encourages the church to boast only in the Lord, whose wisdom surpasses all understanding.   Despite the various issues that need addressing within the church, this letter begins with optimism and reassurances regarding salvation through Jesus. As fellow believers, we should approach our shortcomings with hope and confidence in our King. If we all honor and appreciate Jesus, we can navigate disagreements by uniting with Him and His teachings. We can avoid division if we move toward Jesus. Christians must remember that “the word of the cross” and “Christ crucified” is our salvation. We have all chosen God's wisdom over this world's foolishness. While quarrels and sins may need addressing and changes may be necessary among us, we will support each other as fellow children of God, boasting in Jesus and not in ourselves.    Unifying Father, help us embrace Your spirit of oneness in Your Son. Grant us the faith to recognize how Your grace revitalizes and empowers us. We pray that Your people concentrate more on what unites us than what Satan plots to divide us. Foster humility in each of us to prevent division and partisanship. We boast in Christ alone. This world disparages the simple, saving gospel of Jesus Christ, but God’s wisdom surpasses the world in every way. Who will demonstrate to the world that God’s way is best? May it be us, united in love and courageous in faith.    Thought Questions:   -       Why is division so alluring for some? What leads people to align themselves with differing teachers? And what is the remedy for this?   -       Why is “the word of the cross” foolishness to so many in the world? Why have you decided “Christ crucified” is worth your entire life of service?   -       How has God put the world to shame with His accomplishments in Christ? What does Christ offer and provide that the world never can?