A New Beginning with Greg Laurie

Our lives are like a cacophony sometimes ? maybe they’re sounds, maybe they’re discordant thoughts, or such a collision of priorities and urgencies that we just need some peace and quiet. Pastor Greg shows us how to find rest in Christ ? based on the Lord’s words, 'Take my yoke on you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest to your souls.'Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you walk up to a friend’s door and knock, you probably give it three or four taps. And if they don’t come to door, maybe you knock again . . . or ring the door bell. Pastor Greg Laurie says we should practice the same persistence in our prayers.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prayer is one of our most important privileges, and one of our most powerful tools. Yet many of us don’t feel like we’ve maximized our prayer lives. Pastor Greg Laurie looks in the Lord’s model for prayer to bring us practical counsel we can all put to work today.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For some, prayer is like a fire extinguisher . . . or a spare tire. One of those things we put away, out of sight, until an emergency comes up. But prayer should be something we put to use much more often. Prayer is more like a spiritual smart phone. And how many of us won’t even walk into the next room without that!?Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Lord’s Prayer ? our model for effective prayer ? invites the Father to take over our wants and desires and to be the Lord of our lives. But it turns out that’s the pathway of the richest fulfillment and contentment. We’ll discover the joy of bringing our will in line with God’s will.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some of us might see prayer as more transactional than relational. When we pray, we focus on asking God for something specific. But Prayer is a lifeline to the God who loves us and sustains us, and who holds our future in His hands. Pastor Greg shows us how to steward this privilege appropriately.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether we’re making a bird house, or sewing a dress, it helps to have a template . . . a pattern to follow. As Pastor Greg Laurie points out, the Lord gave us a template or a pattern to follow for effective prayer. It’s what we commonly call The Lord’s Prayer. It’s really more the disciples’ prayer as it shows us how to bring our petitions to God.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s clear that God invites our prayers. And we see evidence throughout Scripture that God’s hears prayers. But does He hear OUR prayers? And if nothing’s happening, has God said no? Or has God said wait? Pastor Greg Laurie begins a short series designed to improve our communication with God. How can we talk to the Lord more appropriately, more powerfully, and see His answers?Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s not hard to be a Christian. It’s impossible? without the help of the Spirit of God! Pastor Greg Laurie points out, the Lord not only invites us to come to Him, He makes it possible to overcome the obstacles that often stand in our way.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the cross, God treated Jesus as if He had lived your life, so He could treat you as if you had lived His life. Jesus took our sins, and gave us His righteousness. Pastor Greg Laurie says Jesus rose again for our justification. This is our assurance of acceptance by God. We’re accepted by God, and loved by God. He’s not mad at you; God’s mad about you.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When do you think Jesus experienced the most pain? An important question from Pastor Greg Laurie. He asks, was it when they put the crown of thorns on his head? Or when they used a Roman whip on his back, as horrible as that was? Was it when they pounded the spikes through His hands and His feet? As horrible and horrific as all of that was, Pastor Greg Laurie tells what he thinks the moment was.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Jesus gave His life for our sins, it was no small gesture. Pastor Greg Laurie addresses Jesus’ sacrifice, saying He was wounded for our transgressions, and crushed for our iniquities. The punishment for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. Why did He die? Simple answer: because He loved the people He was dying for, and He loved you!Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peter said, ’I swear to God, I never knew Jesus Christ!’ He took a giant step backwards in his integrity and proclamation of the Gospel. But Pastor Greg Laurie says God grants second chances. Believers can fall. Believers can stumble. They can also get up again. For Peter, his setback was going to turn into a set-up.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

God can do extraordinary things through ordinary people. That means we all qualify! Greg Laurie says, we don’t see the potential in our lives that God sees. We see a lump of clay; God sees a beautiful vase. We see a piece of coal; God sees a refined diamond. We see problems; God sees solutions. We see an end; and God sees a new beginning, and hope!Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we walk closely with the Lord, day by day, Pastor Greg Laurie says others may take notice. In fact, it might evoke a strong reaction. Things like, ’Man, what a waste! You missed the big party! You should have been at this thing. What, you went to church again? Seriously, really?’ Oh no, if we’ve given up any pleasure, that’s no sacrifice compared to what God has given up for us.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mary realised Jesus was coming to die on the cross, and she wanted to do something for Him to show her love. She demonstrated her love in an extravagant way and many were surprised. Pastor Greg Laurie believes she actually set a very good example. He says, the more we discover what Jesus has actually done for us, the more we will want to do more for Him. The Bible calls us to 'love Him because He first loved us'.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pastor Greg Laurie points out that our salvation comes through Jesus, only through Jesus, and the price He paid on the cross at Calvary. He is our high priest, the Lamb of God, and because of His death and resurrection, you and I have open access to the Father 24/7. We can approach Him through Christ. It really is an amazing thing.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was a spectacle no one had ever seen before, the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ. Jesus shining like the sun. Moses and Elijah on each side. Peter explained: ’It’s good we are here’ because he really didn’t know what else to say. The message is, when you don’t know what to say, don’t say anything.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is this cross that we’re all called to bear? Denying ourselves and putting God first. So many chase after happiness at the expense of nearly everything else. Greg Laurie says we’ll only truly find it when we put God first in our life and follow Him.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus came to this earth to die for the sins of the world. But His disciples did not get that because it was lost in translation. In real time, it was a surprising message to comprehend. Pastor Greg Laurie gives us perspective on God’s plan and the Lord’s sacrifice. He quotes 'One day He will rule as King of Kings and Lord of Lords, but before Christ would wear a crown, He would first have to bear a cross.'Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you pray for something over and over again and you wonder why your prayer is not answered in the affirmative, you might ask, ’why is that?’ Pastor Greg Laurie offers us practical help with our prayer lives. A warning about idols that are a substitute for God.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Everybody has faith. For instance, when you go to a restaurant, you’re applying faith in hoping that that food is prepared properly. But then someone comes along and says, ’Have faith in God,’ and we say, ’Whoa, faith in God? That’s insane!’ Pastor Greg Laurie says, since we all apply faith anyway, let’s put our faith in God Almighty, who loves and cares for us. There is no safer place!Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the First Century, just the touch of the Master’s Hand, and so many lives were changed. Pastor Greg Laurie says it can happen in the 21st Century. If you’re not feeling His touch, reach out to Him and touch Him. The Bible says 'Draw near to God and He will draw near to you'.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes God doesn’t move as quickly as we want Him to move. If we’re out of touch with God, or just out of touch with His plan, we’ll no doubt be out of sync with His timing, as well. God’s delays are not necessarily His denials. God is at work. He knows what He’s doing, so it’s best to wait on His timing.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Multiple studies have found there’s a strong link between heavy social media and an increased risk for depression, anxiety, loneliness, self-harm, and even suicidal thoughts. Society has no answer. The real ills that plague us are spiritual in nature. Pastor Greg Laurie says we shouldn’t try to fix spiritual issues with earthly, secular band-aids. What culture cannot do, Jesus can. But you must call out to Him.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Satan is a fallen angel. A powerful one for sure, and once he has you where he wants you, he’ll chew you up and he’ll spit you out. But Pastor Greg Laurie points out that Satan’s power is no match for our God, and God is bigger than your problem.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Success or failure in the Christian life depends on how you hear the Word of God. Pastor Greg Laurie points out the importance of soaking up good Bible teaching. But he points out that the next step may be the most important one, applying it and obeying it!Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Success in the area of spiritual growth is no mystery. Pastor Greg Laurie reveals that people who don’t succeed in the spiritual life end up that way because of choices made over the course of their lifetime to not do the right thing. If you want to grow spiritually, you will; if you don’t want to grow spiritually, you won’t. Simple!Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Skepticism is not a sign that a person is wrong, it may be a sign that he is thinking. Pastor Greg Laurie points out that we can bring our uncertainties to the Lord. It’s okay for you to say to the Lord, ’Make yourself real to me, help me with my doubts, help me with my questions.’ He will.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The word ’family’ ideally speaks of closeness, unity and mutual concern. Pastor Greg Laurie says believers have the privilege of being in God’s family.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why is it that those who know the most do the least; and those that know the least do the most? As much as long-time believers may know, Pastor Greg Laurie says we can learn from the zeal of a newer believers. The brand new believer, with a thimble-full of theological knowledge, is often immediately out there sharing the Gospel trying to bring people to Christ because they are so close to what God has tangibly done in their life!Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus is putting His team together. He was going to choose 12 men in total, and they would be the most ordinary of all men. Pastor Greg Laurie points out that the Lord is looking for ordinary men and women to join Him in doing extraordinary things, just like the original 12 that he called. They weren’t 'saints', nor were they scholars. They were hopelessly human, but they were available to the Master’s call.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What did Jesus do when He was tempted by the Devil? He quoted Scripture. It’s almost laughable that Satan, a created being, could lead God incarnate astray. But Pastor Greg Laurie points out Jesus responded how we should, pulling out the appropriate Scriptures in defense.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We live in a fast-paced, frenetic culture. How can we communicate the Good News of the Gospel in the midst of the commotion? Friday on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie answers that question. It’s the launch of his new series, The Gospel for Busy People.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Evangelism is telling people about the Lord; discipleship is showing people how to follow the Lord. And Thursday on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us mentor those who are younger in the faith. It’s an important part of God’s plan for a healthy Church.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the job of long-time believers to show younger believers what it means to follow the Lord. That process is called discipleship. And Wednesday on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie offers some practical help. Discover how to follow this important part of God’s plan.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pastor Greg Laurie says he’s never met a Christian who’s failing spiritually who was also studying the Bible diligently. Tuesday on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg points out how dedicated disciples spend quality time digging in to God’s Word.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pastor Greg Laurie points out the 'disciplines of a disciple.' We’ll see, first of all, disciples are called to read, to study and to live according to the Word of God. Pastor Greg points out how to let that truth so fill us that it overflows to others.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What good is a half-hearted Christian? What good is a diluted believer? What good is a decaf disciple? It’s like an espresso without caffeine. It’s like having a car without an engine. Pastor Greg Laurie helps us learn to be full-strength, fully-developed, fully-effective Christian disciples, impacting our culture.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Never be afraid to commit an unknown future to a known God. Our goal in life is not to find out how God can bless our dreams and ambitions, but to find His plan and align ourselves with it. That’s what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. But how do we align ourselves with a plan we may not yet fully understand?Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Becoming a Christian will cause tension. You’re either going to have harmony with God and friction with people, or friction with God and harmony with people. Pastor Greg Laurie points out that we each need to make a choice about being a friend of God and a disciple of Jesus.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s not enough to just come forward, we need to go forward as followers of Jesus Christ, because the Christian life is a lifetime of discovery and transformation. Pastor Greg Laurie launches a series on discipleship.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

’Life and death’ truth regarding the surprises we’ll find in eternity. Pastor Greg points out that some people who seemed like nice folks simply won’t make it into heaven, and some that seemed evil to the core will actually be there, because of forgiveness.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We get weather alerts, Amber alerts, medical alerts. Today Pastor Greg Laurie issues a spiritual alert. We’ll see that those who live their lives apart from a relationship with Jesus Christ are facing the most serious kind of danger there is. They’re not only risking life in the here and now, they’re risking their life in the hereafter.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes, our demeanor is soured when life has been harsh and we feel there’s nothing we can do about it. Pastor Greg Laurie brings some good news. You can have an attitude of contentment, no matter what. Because your Heavenly Father knows what you’re facing and He has a plan to bring you through.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s easy to be content when things are going well . . . and it’s easy to be discontented when life has brought us to our knees. But is our contentment always tied to our circumstances? Pastor Greg Laurie would remind us that some of Paul’s most encouraging words were written from a dank, dark prison cell. Pastor Greg helps us see how to have a spirit of contentment no matter what life throws our way.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The old saying in the news business is, 'if it bleeds, it leads.' But the Lord calls us to set our minds on things above. Pastor Greg Laurie shows us why, when we’ve made our peace with God, it’s so easy to enjoy the peace of God.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matthew 6:27 is pretty frank: 'Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?' Pastor Greg Laurie helps us overcome fear and worry. In this series, we’re learning to adopt a biblical worldview . . . and we’ll learn that biblical worldview doesn’t include worry. We’ll see worry and faith are mutually exclusive.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Where does your electricity come from in your home? The power company, right? You’re connected directly. Your neighbour is connected directly. You’re not running an extension cord over to the neighbour’s to power up your lights. (At least I hope not.) Well, we each need a direct spiritual connection to our Heavenly Father. Pastor Greg Laurie points out how that sheds light on what it means to 'work out our own salvation.'Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We live in the information age. Facts and figures fly at us faster than we can absorb. And opinions, suppositions, rumours and innuendos come screaming at us from every form of media ? especially social media. Where do we find an escape? Pastor Greg Laurie points out our respite is right in the pages of God’s Word.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.