Highest Praise 9am weekend service! Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving In today's gathering, we explored the profound significance of being planted in the house of the Lord, as inspired by Psalm 92:13-14. This scripture emphasizes that those who are rooted in God's house will flourish and continue to bear fruit, even in old age. The church is not just a building; it is a sacred assembly where believers come together to worship, learn, and minister to one another. It is a place where we experience the presence of God, and through our collective worship and service, we can change the spiritual atmosphere of our community. The church serves multiple purposes: it is a place of worship, a center for teaching and instruction in the Word of God, and a community where we minister to each other. It is also a platform for anointed preaching and teaching, which helps us grow in our faith and understanding. The church provides a credible witness to the community, showcasing the love and power of Jesus Christ. By being planted in the church, we allow God to work in our lives, leading to personal and communal breakthroughs. We also reflected on the story of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana (John 2). This miracle illustrates the importance of obedience and doing things to the fullest measure. Just as the servants filled the water pots to the brim, we are called to serve God wholeheartedly. When we do so, we open ourselves to the full measure of God's blessings and joy. Being planted in the church is not just about attending services; it's about being part of a community that seeks to embody God's character, nature, and heart. It is about allowing God to plant His desires in our lives, leading to spiritual growth and transformation. As we remain rooted in the church, we will flourish and experience the fullness of God's promises. **Key Takeaways:** - **The Importance of Being Planted:** Being planted in the house of the Lord means being rooted in a community of believers where we can grow spiritually and bear fruit. This rootedness allows us to flourish and experience God's blessings in our lives. [27:01] - **The Church as a Place of Worship and Instruction:** The church is a place where we gather to worship God and learn from His Word. It is essential for our spiritual growth and understanding, helping us discern between the world's messages and God's truth. [29:21] - **Changing the Spiritual Atmosphere:** By being part of a local church, we contribute to changing the spiritual atmosphere of our community. Our collective worship and service provide a credible witness to the power and love of Jesus Christ. [33:15] - **Obedience and Fullness of Blessing:** The story of Jesus turning water into wine teaches us the importance of obedience and doing things to the fullest measure. When we serve God wholeheartedly, we open ourselves to the full measure of His blessings and joy. [35:36] - **Experiencing God's Presence:** The church is where we experience the presence of God, His character, nature, and heart. By being planted in the church, we allow God to work in our lives, leading to personal and communal breakthroughs. [39:36] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [01:30] - Celebrating Together - [03:45] - The Importance of Being Planted - [06:20] - The Church as a Place of Worship - [09:10] - Teaching and Instruction in the Word - [12:00] - Ministering to One Another - [15:30] - Anointed Preaching and Teaching - [18:45] - Credible Witness to the Community - [22:00] - Changing the Spiritual Atmosphere - [25:15] - The Story of the Wedding at Cana - [28:30] - Obedience and Fullness of Blessing - [31:45] - Experiencing God's Presence - [35:00] - Flourishing in God's House - [38:15] - Closing Prayer and Blessing

Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving The essence of our gathering as a church is rooted in the profound understanding of what it means to be the "ekklesia," the called-out assembly of God. The term "church" is derived from Greek words that mean "to call out," signifying that we are not just individuals who have been saved, but a collective body called to assemble together. This assembly is not merely a routine gathering; it is a sacred act where we come together to hear from God and act on His behalf. The Old Testament provides a vivid illustration of this through the Israelites, who were called God's assembly in the wilderness. They gathered to receive divine instructions for deliverance and guidance, emphasizing the importance of community in spiritual growth and action. In the New Testament, the concept of the church as an assembly is further reinforced. We are not just called out to be separate from the world but to come together as a community of believers. This gathering is essential for stirring up love and good works among us. The writer of Hebrews exhorts us not to forsake assembling together, as it is crucial for encouragement and spiritual stimulation. In a world that often promotes individualism, the church stands as a counter-cultural community where we find strength, encouragement, and accountability. The church is a family, a community where we are interconnected and interdependent. This family aspect is deeply rooted in the Jewish understanding of faith, where salvation is not just an individual experience but a household one. The blood of Jesus covers not just individuals but entire households, emphasizing the communal nature of our faith. As we gather, we are reminded that we are part of a larger family, the body of Christ, and that our faith journey is not meant to be walked alone. In a society that often values independence, the church calls us back to the biblical model of community. We are reminded that we cannot thrive spiritually in isolation. The church is where we are challenged, encouraged, and equipped to live out our faith. It is where we experience the sanctifying work of God through community, as we are shaped and molded into the image of Christ. Key Takeaways: 1. The Meaning of Church: The term "church" originates from Greek words meaning "to call out," highlighting that we are called out to assemble as God's people. This assembly is not just a gathering but a sacred act where we come together to hear from God and act on His behalf. [00:00] 2. The Importance of Assembly: In both the Old and New Testaments, God's people are called to assemble together. This gathering is essential for receiving divine instructions and for spiritual growth. It is in the assembly that we are stirred up in love and good works. [17:44] 3. Community Over Individualism: The church stands as a counter-cultural community in a world that often promotes individualism. We are reminded that our faith journey is not meant to be walked alone, and that we find strength and encouragement in the community of believers. [27:40] 4. The Church as a Family: Our faith is not just an individual experience but a communal one. The church is a family where we are interconnected and interdependent. The blood of Jesus covers not just individuals but entire households, emphasizing the communal nature of our faith. [32:12] 5. The Sanctifying Work of Community: The church is where we experience the sanctifying work of God through community. It is where we are challenged, encouraged, and equipped to live out our faith. In the assembly, we are shaped and molded into the image of Christ. [44:38] Youtube Chapters: - [00:00] - Welcome - [00:02] - Introduction to the Church - [00:45] - Meaning of Ekklesia - [02:30] - Old Testament Assembly - [04:15] - New Testament Gathering - [06:00] - Importance of Assembling - [08:20] - Community and Action - [10:05] - Hearing and Acting for God - [12:00] - The Church as a Family - [14:30] - Encouragement in Community - [17:44] - The Day Approaching - [20:00] - First Century Church Unity - [22:30] - Individualism vs. Community - [25:00] - Sanctifying Work of Community - [27:40] - The Role of the Church Today - [29:38] - Conclusion and Blessing

In today's gathering, we delved into the profound significance of communication, particularly within the context of relationships, with a special focus on marriage. Communication is the cornerstone of any relationship, and its absence often leads to misunderstandings and conflicts. We explored how God exemplifies perfect communication throughout the Bible, from His conversations with Noah and Moses to His teachings through Jesus. God’s communication is always intentional, relatable, and filled with wisdom, setting a standard for us to emulate. The Book of Colossians serves as a guide on how to communicate effectively, both with God and with others. It emphasizes the importance of speaking with grace and wisdom, ensuring our words are seasoned with salt to uplift and encourage those around us. Effective communication is not just about speaking but also about listening and understanding. It involves expressing ideas and feelings clearly and ensuring that the message is received as intended. We also discussed the power of words and their ability to build or destroy. Words spoken at the right moment can be as precious as gold, bringing life and healing to relationships. Conversely, negative or careless words can lead to strife and division. Therefore, it is crucial to guard our hearts, as our words are a reflection of what resides within. Moreover, we highlighted the importance of maintaining a daily relationship with God, as it fuels our passion and ability to communicate effectively with others. By aligning our hearts with God’s love and wisdom, we can approach every conversation with the right attitude and integrity. This not only strengthens our personal relationships but also enhances our ability to share the gospel and be a godly example to those around us. **Key Takeaways:** - **God as the Ultimate Communicator:** God’s communication throughout the Bible is intentional and relatable, serving as a model for us. His interactions with figures like Noah and Moses demonstrate the importance of clear and purposeful communication. [02:42] - **The Role of Colossians in Communication:** The Book of Colossians teaches us how to communicate with God and others, emphasizing grace and wisdom in our speech. It highlights the need for a godly attitude in all interactions. [12:02] - **The Power of Words:** Words have the power to uplift or destroy. A word fitly spoken can bring life and healing, while careless words can lead to conflict and division. Guarding our hearts ensures our words reflect God’s love and wisdom. [19:41] - **Effective Communication in Relationships:** Effective communication involves listening and understanding, not just speaking. It is essential for building and maintaining healthy relationships, whether in marriage, family, or community. [25:22] - **The Importance of Listening:** Listening is a crucial component of communication. It requires intentionality and focus, allowing us to truly understand and connect with others. This fosters intimacy and closes gaps that the enemy might exploit. [29:09] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [02:42] - God as the Ultimate Communicator - [05:30] - Communication in the Bible - [08:15] - Relating to Different Audiences - [12:02] - Lessons from Colossians - [15:00] - The Power of Words - [19:41] - Building Relationships with Words - [22:22] - The Importance of Perspective - [25:22] - Effective Communication Defined - [29:09] - Intimacy through Communication - [32:50] - Guarding Your Heart - [35:32] - Avoiding Assumptions - [38:33] - The Art of Listening - [43:34] - Quieting Your Thoughts - [46:09] - Communicating with Love

Highest Praise 10:45am weekend service! Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving In today's discussion, we explored the importance of balance in our relationships, whether they be marriages, friendships, or professional connections. The foundation of our conversation was rooted in 1 Peter 5, which emphasizes the need to be sober, vigilant, well-balanced, and self-disciplined. When our lives are out of balance, it opens the door for the enemy to disrupt our relationships and personal peace. It's crucial to recognize that maintaining balance is our responsibility, not that of our spouse, children, or job. We also delved into the significance of covenant relationships, using the story of Ruth and Naomi as a powerful example. Ruth's unwavering commitment to Naomi, despite the challenges, illustrates the strength and depth of a true covenant relationship. This kind of commitment is essential in all our relationships, as it reflects God's design for us to support and uplift one another. Furthermore, we discussed the importance of recognizing the enemy's tactics in trying to disrupt our lives. The enemy seeks to kill, steal, and destroy, and one of his strategies is to get us out of balance. By staying vigilant and grounded in our faith, we can resist these attacks and maintain harmony in our relationships. Lastly, we touched on the importance of community and the role of the church in our lives. Forsaking the assembly of believers can lead to isolation and imbalance. Being part of a church community helps us stay aligned with God's will and provides support and accountability. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Balance is Key:** Maintaining balance in life is crucial for healthy relationships. When we are out of balance, it affects every area of our lives, and it's our responsibility to address it. By keeping Christ at the center, we can use wisdom to navigate life's challenges and maintain harmony. [13:41] 2. **Covenant Relationships:** The story of Ruth and Naomi exemplifies the power of covenant relationships. Such relationships require commitment and support, reflecting God's design for us to uplift one another. This commitment is vital in all relationships, including marriage, friendships, and community. [25:01] 3. **Recognizing the Enemy:** The enemy seeks to disrupt our lives by getting us out of balance. By staying vigilant and grounded in our faith, we can resist these attacks and maintain harmony in our relationships. Recognizing the enemy's tactics is essential for spiritual victory. [43:59] 4. **Community and Church:** Being part of a church community is vital for spiritual growth and balance. Forsaking the assembly of believers can lead to isolation and imbalance. The church provides support, accountability, and a place to align with God's will. [25:01] 5. **Walking in Wisdom:** The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. By walking wisely and understanding God's will, we can navigate life's challenges and maintain balance. This wisdom helps us respond to situations in a manner worthy of the gospel. [43:59] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [00:30] - Introduction to Relationships - [02:15] - Personal Testimony - [05:00] - Importance of Balance - [08:45] - Practicing Balance in Life - [13:41] - Recognizing the Enemy - [17:30] - Covenant Relationships - [21:00] - Story of Ruth and Naomi - [25:01] - Role of Community and Church - [28:45] - Walking in Wisdom - [32:00] - Personal Experiences - [36:15] - Importance of Communication - [40:00] - Staying Grounded in Faith - [43:59] - Final Reflections - [47:30] - Closing Remarks

Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving In today's message, we delved into the profound and often challenging topic of marriage, focusing on the biblical principles found in Ephesians 5:21-28. The essence of a strong marriage lies in mutual submission, where both partners willingly place the needs of the marriage above their individual preferences. This revolutionary idea, especially in the context of the time when Paul wrote it, calls for a balance of power and respect between husbands and wives, liberating both to serve each other in love. Marriage is not merely a romantic endeavor but a commitment that requires hard work and dedication. Many young couples enter marriage with an idealistic view, believing that love alone will sustain them. However, the reality is that marriage involves both better and worse times, and it is through these challenges that couples grow stronger together. The key is to understand that marriage is not about "me" but about "we," and this requires a shift from individual desires to collective goals. The concept of submission is likened to a submarine going below the surface to fulfill its mission. In marriage, this means placing one's own desires under the mission of the marriage, prioritizing the relationship over personal preferences. Healthy couples focus on resolving conflicts rather than winning arguments, understanding that sometimes personal sacrifice is necessary for the greater good of the marriage. Christ must be at the center of the marriage, serving as the foundation that enables mutual submission. With Christ as the mediator, couples can navigate the challenges of marriage with grace and unity. A marriage centered on Christ is less likely to fall apart, as He brings peace, order, and unity. Finally, the role of the Holy Spirit as the enforcer in marriage is emphasized. It is not our job to enforce change in our spouse; rather, we must trust the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts and in our marriage. By focusing on our own growth and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us, we can build a marriage that reflects God's perfect plan. **Key Takeaways:** - **Mutual Submission:** True submission in marriage involves both partners placing the needs of the marriage above their individual desires. This revolutionary concept calls for a balance of power and respect, liberating both to serve each other in love. [06:36] - **Marriage Requires Work:** Many enter marriage with an idealistic view, but the reality is that it involves both better and worse times. Understanding that marriage is about "we" and not "me" requires a shift from individual desires to collective goals. [05:53] - **Christ at the Center:** A marriage centered on Christ is less likely to fall apart, as He brings peace, order, and unity. With Christ as the mediator, couples can navigate challenges with grace and unity. [15:07] - **Healthy Conflict Resolution:** Healthy couples focus on resolving conflicts rather than winning arguments. Personal sacrifice is sometimes necessary for the greater good of the marriage, and this requires humility and a willingness to listen. [09:28] - **Role of the Holy Spirit:** Trusting the Holy Spirit as the enforcer in marriage allows for genuine growth and change. By focusing on personal growth and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide, couples can build a marriage that reflects God's perfect plan. [31:26] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [02:34] - Introduction and Prayer - [04:14] - The Reality of Marriage Vows - [05:53] - The Importance of Hard Work in Marriage - [06:36] - Mutual Submission in Marriage - [07:44] - Understanding Submission - [08:35] - Fighting for "Ours" Not "Mine" - [09:28] - Healthy Conflict Resolution - [10:43] - The Role of Humility - [11:54] - Communication in Marriage - [13:26] - The Danger of Silence - [15:07] - Keeping Christ at the Center - [17:14] - The Power of Praise and Worship - [18:13] - Growing Together Spiritually - [18:51] - Lessons from Adam and Eve - [22:00] - Avoiding Isolation - [24:38] - The Importance of Discernment - [26:12] - The Role of the Husband - [27:51] - Leading with Conviction - [28:49] - Initiating Submission - [30:23] - Becoming One Whole - [31:26] - The Holy Spirit as the Enforcer - [33:53] - Closing Prayer and Commitment - [35:34] - Generational Impact of Marriage

Highest Praise 10:45am weekend service! Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving In our journey through the "Strengthen Your Marriage" series, we began by exploring the foundational truths of marriage as established by God in Genesis. God created marriage to be a union, a reflection of His love and commitment to us. However, the enemy seeks to divide what God has united, as seen in the story of Adam and Eve. This series aims to refocus our understanding of marriage, moving away from cultural redefinitions and towards a God-centered covenant. We examined three approaches to marriage: casual, contractual, and covenantal. The casual approach is driven by fleshly desires, leading to temporary unions that dissolve when conflicts arise. The contractual approach is based on mutual agreements and emotional needs, often resulting in separation when those needs are unmet. In contrast, a covenantal marriage is rooted in a spiritual commitment to God and each other, transcending personal desires and situational agreements. A covenantal marriage is not just about fulfilling personal needs but about aligning our spirits with God's spirit. It is a commitment to live with an eternal mindset, honoring God and each other. This approach requires us to listen to God's voice and lead our families with faith and example. Fathers and husbands are called to be the spiritual leaders of their homes, demonstrating what it means to be a man of God. We also discussed the importance of unconditional commitment in marriage. Unlike contracts, which have exit strategies, a covenantal marriage is forever, with no plan B. This commitment is mirrored in our relationship with God, who calls us to a covenant relationship through the sacrifice of Jesus. Just as the blood of the lamb protected the Israelites, Jesus' sacrifice covers us, allowing us to build marriages on a foundation of righteousness. In conclusion, we are encouraged to choose love, forgiveness, and commitment daily. Our marriages and relationships with God should not be casual or contractual but covenantal, reflecting the eternal love and faithfulness of God. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **The Enemy's Agenda:** From the beginning, the enemy has sought to divide what God has united, as seen in the story of Adam and Eve. Recognizing this helps us understand the importance of unity in marriage and the need to guard against isolation and division. [01:44] 2. **Three Approaches to Marriage:** The casual, contractual, and covenantal approaches to marriage reflect different priorities. While casual and contractual marriages focus on personal desires and agreements, a covenantal marriage is rooted in a spiritual commitment to God and each other. [04:43] 3. **Unconditional Commitment:** A covenantal marriage is based on unconditional commitment, with no exit strategies. This mirrors our relationship with God, who calls us to a covenant relationship through Jesus' sacrifice. [14:36] 4. **Eternal Mindset:** Living with an eternal mindset means honoring God and each other in marriage. It involves listening to God's voice and leading our families with faith and example, raising children to be world changers for Jesus. [13:16] 5. **Daily Choice of Love:** Love, forgiveness, and commitment in marriage are daily choices. Our marriages and relationships with God should reflect the eternal love and faithfulness of God, not be driven by fleeting emotions or desires. [22:26] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [01:44] - The Enemy's Agenda - [03:53] - Tri-Part Being and Marriage - [04:43] - Casual Approach to Marriage - [06:58] - Contractual Approach to Marriage - [09:01] - The One vs. Number Two - [10:05] - Covenantal Approach to Marriage - [11:21] - Eternal Mindset in Marriage - [12:02] - Role of Fathers and Husbands - [13:16] - Raising Children with Eternal Mindset - [14:36] - Unconditional Commitment - [17:03] - No Exit Strategies - [18:36] - Fighting for Marriage - [19:09] - Feelings vs. Commitment - [22:26] - Daily Choice of Love - [24:40] - Covenant Relationship with God - [26:34] - Jesus' Sacrifice and Covenant - [30:23] - Jesus at the Center - [31:43] - Prayer and Commitment - [33:32] - Trials and Faith - [34:20] - Conclusion and Call to Action

We explored the theme of "release" and how it relates to our spiritual journey and service to God. We celebrated Volapalooza Day, a time to honor our volunteers who embody the spirit of showing up and serving. This celebration is a reminder of the importance of responding to God's call by worshiping, obeying, and acting in service. God is in the business of restoration, and He desires to remove hindrances from our lives so we can move forward in His purpose. This year can be a year of release if we pursue God wholeheartedly, allowing Him to release burdens that hinder our progress. We discussed the concept of divine release, which is God's promise to free us from anything that holds us back. Release occurs when the life of God within us grows and multiplies, enabling us to bless others. This multiplication is evident in our church community, where we see growth and the fulfillment of God's command to be fruitful. We reflected on Luke 10, where Jesus sent out 70 disciples, emphasizing that His strategy is to work through His people. This mission continues today as we are called to be witnesses, sharing our testimonies and the power of the Holy Spirit. The early church understood the cost of being a witness, often equating it with martyrdom. Despite the challenges, they stood firm in their faith, leaving us a legacy of the Nicene Creed, which affirms our belief in the triune God. We are reminded that the world is watching, seeking truth, and we are the witnesses of God's goodness. Our lives should reflect the difference Jesus has made, and we should actively release His love and power into the world. As we move forward, we are encouraged to seek a deeper saturation of the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to guide and empower us in our witness. This call to action is not just for our benefit but for the world that needs to see the light of Christ through us. Let us embrace this opportunity to be vessels of God's love and truth, knowing that He has a wonderful plan for each of us. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Responding to God's Call:** Our response to God's call involves worship, obedience, and service. By removing hindrances through practices like fasting, we allow God to work in us, leading to a divine release that propels us forward in His purpose. [01:41] 2. **The Power of Witness:** Being a witness is not just about sharing our testimony but living a life that reflects the transformative power of Jesus. The early church understood this, often equating witness with martyrdom, showing the depth of commitment required. [18:57] 3. **Multiplication and Growth:** God's life within us is meant to grow and multiply, impacting those around us. This multiplication is a sign of a living church, fulfilling God's command to be fruitful and multiply, both spiritually and in community. [06:40] 4. **The Role of the Holy Spirit:** The Holy Spirit is our constant companion, empowering us to be effective witnesses. As we seek more of the Holy Spirit, we are equipped to release God's love and power into the world, fulfilling our mission. [36:58] 5. **Standing Firm in Faith:** The legacy of the early church reminds us of the cost of discipleship and the importance of standing firm in our faith. Despite challenges, we are called to be witnesses of God's goodness, sharing His love and truth with the world. [24:13] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [01:41] - Responding to Release - [06:40] - Joy in Service - [11:09] - Releasing Our Witness - [15:08] - The Power of Testimony - [18:57] - Witness and Martyrdom - [20:02] - The First Christian Conference - [24:13] - Battle and Blessing - [25:31] - The Nicene Creed - [27:24] - The Reward of Suffering - [28:08] - Living as Witnesses - [30:11] - Representing God's Goodness - [32:29] - The Legacy of Witnesses - [34:38] - The Holy Spirit's Role - [36:58] - Saturation of the Holy Spirit - [41:34] - Closing Prayer and Invitation

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that invites us to seek God's face rather than His hand. It is a practice that humbles us before God, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our lives. When we fast with the right motives, we open ourselves to hear from heaven, and God promises to heal our lives, our churches, and even our nation. The Bible is filled with examples of people who humbled themselves through fasting and prayer, leading to revival and healing across entire lands. James 4:6 reminds us that God gives grace to the humble, and fasting is a way to humble ourselves before Him. It is a sacrifice that costs us something, but it moves the heart of God. As we embark on this 10-day fast, we are called to seek God's face, to know Him more deeply, and to understand His character and promises. This fast is not just about abstaining from food but about feeding our spirits with His Word and presence. There are different types of fasts, such as normal, partial, and rotational fasts. Each person can choose what works best for them, but the key is to approach fasting with a heart that seeks God. It's not about following a formula but about coming to God with sincerity and humility. Even if we falter, God's grace is sufficient to help us continue. Fasting is a time to pray for protection, fulfillment of God's promises, and deliverance from captivity. It is a time to hear God's voice clearly and to see His glory and goodness. As we fast, we are reminded that nothing is higher or stronger than the faith we have in Christ. With even a mustard seed of faith, we can move mountains and see the kingdom of darkness fall. As we enter this fast, let us approach God with our whole hearts, seeking His face and trusting His hand. In doing so, we will experience His transformative power and celebrate the victories He brings into our lives. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Seeking God's Face:** Fasting is about seeking God's face, not just His hand. It is a spiritual discipline that humbles us and opens us to hear from heaven. When we fast with the right motives, God promises to heal our lives and our land. [01:49] 2. **Types of Fasts:** There are various types of fasts, such as normal, partial, and rotational. Each person can choose what works best for them, but the key is to approach fasting with sincerity and humility, not as a formula. [05:38] 3. **Prayer and Protection:** Fasting is a time to pray for protection and fulfillment of God's promises. It is a time to seek deliverance from captivity and to hear God's voice clearly. [18:04] 4. **Faith and Mountains:** With even a mustard seed of faith, we can move mountains and see the kingdom of darkness fall. Fasting strengthens our faith and allows us to see God's power at work in our lives. [24:05] 5. **Approaching God with Heart:** God looks at our hearts, not our formulas. As we fast, let us approach God with sincerity, seeking His face and trusting His hand. In doing so, we will experience His transformative power. [32:51] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [01:49] - The Purpose of Fasting - [03:30] - Humbling Ourselves Before God - [05:38] - Types of Fasts - [10:39] - Attainable Goals in Fasting - [18:04] - Prayer for Protection and Promises - [24:05] - Faith to Move Mountains - [30:37] - Our Position in Christ - [32:12] - The Woman with the Issue of Blood - [32:51] - Approaching God with Heart - [35:42] - Grace Over Formula - [37:13] - God Turns Nothing into Something - [39:40] - Denying the Flesh - [43:50] - Closing Prayer and Invitation

Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving In this message, the focus is on the spiritual discipline of fasting and the concept of divine release. Fasting is not about receiving something from God but about drawing closer to Him, breaking down barriers that separate us from His presence. It is a personal journey where one chooses what to fast, ensuring it is something meaningful to them. The act of fasting is a form of obedience that brings us into a deeper sensitivity to God's voice and direction. The theme of release is emphasized as a call to let go of things that hold us back spiritually. Release is about freedom, liberation, and breaking free from constraints that do not support our spiritual growth. It involves accepting God's forgiveness, taking responsibility for our actions, and letting go of past hurts and blame. The message encourages us to stop playing the blame game and to take responsibility for our lives, moving forward with faith rather than being held back by fear rooted in past experiences. The sermon also highlights the importance of divine release, where God intervenes to free us from burdens and stagnation. This release is not just about letting go but also about receiving new blessings and opportunities. It is a call to reposition ourselves spiritually for a supernatural release, trusting that God can bring life to dead situations and expectations. The examples of biblical figures who experienced divine release serve as a reminder that God is capable of breaking generational curses and bringing about transformation in our lives. Ultimately, the message is a call to action, urging us to make this year a year of release by doing our part in obedience to God. It is about believing in God's promise to release us from burdens and to fill us with His blessings, leading to a life of abundance and spiritual growth. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Fasting as a Path to Closeness with God:** Fasting is not about receiving material blessings but about drawing nearer to God. It helps break down barriers between us and God, making us more sensitive to His presence and guidance. This spiritual discipline is a personal journey, where the focus is on what we need to surrender to God to deepen our relationship with Him. [05:27] 2. **The Power of Release:** Release involves letting go of things that constrain us spiritually. It is about freedom from past hurts, blame, and unforgiveness. By accepting God's forgiveness and taking responsibility for our actions, we can move forward in faith, unburdened by the past. This release is essential for spiritual growth and receiving new blessings. [10:05] 3. **Divine Release and Transformation:** God promises to release us from burdens and stagnation, bringing life to dead situations. This divine release is about breaking free from generational curses and experiencing transformation. It requires faith and obedience, trusting that God can bring about change and new opportunities in our lives. [22:49] 4. **Faith Over Fear:** Faith is future-oriented, while fear is rooted in the past. To experience release, we must focus on the future and trust in God's promises. Fear holds us back, but faith propels us forward, allowing us to embrace the new things God has for us. [28:06] 5. **Repositioning for Supernatural Release:** To experience divine release, we must reposition ourselves spiritually. This involves fasting, prayer, and obedience to God's commands. By aligning ourselves with God's will, we open ourselves to receive His blessings and experience a year of supernatural release and abundance. [34:50] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [05:27] - The Purpose of Fasting - [06:20] - Accepting Forgiveness - [08:22] - Letting Go of Blame - [10:05] - Taking Responsibility - [15:05] - The Test of Spirituality - [20:39] - The Will and Feelings - [21:39] - Releasing Emotional Ties - [22:49] - Divine Release Explained - [26:03] - Breaking Stagnation - [28:06] - Faith Over Fear - [29:26] - Generational Curses Broken - [32:27] - Receiving Uncommon Blessings - [34:50] - Repositioning Spiritually - [39:07] - Closing Prayer and Blessing