Greg Laurie: A New Beginning

Prerequisites. Students certainly know what those are. Those are things that have to come before other things. Before you can take English 201, you have to take English 101. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us explore any prerequisites in making a genuine commitment to Jesus Christ. If Heaven hangs in the balance, we want to make sure our hearts and minds are sincere in fully accepting the Lord’s invitation. Today’s message serves as the finale to our studies in Acts. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever drive away from home and had that nagging feeling you might have left the stove on? Or you forgot to lock a door? Or you left a curling iron plugged in? If you don’t go back and check, you start thinking of how things could go horribly wrong. We want to be sure about certain things, don’t we? Well, today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us check ourselves when it comes to the sincerity of our faith in Christ. When it comes to matters of eternity, “close enough” isn’t close enough. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes, it can seem as though we’re swimming against the current in our life of faith. If it isn’t opposition and even persecution for what we believe, it’s challenges in health, or finances, or relationships. How do we get through? How have others made it? Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points to the Apostle Paul as our inspiration. We’re in the book of Acts considering the trial upon trial Paul faced, but the word of encouragement that pulled him through. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many people feel they just can’t function in the morning with their cup of coffee. But, long ago, coffee met with grumpy, nearly global opposition for hundreds of years (They were grumpy ‘cause they hadn’t had their coffee). People oppose lots of things, but then come to embrace them warmly. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out how we need to realize that people need the message we share, and we need to find the courage to share it even in the face of opposition. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wouldn’t it be a remarkable world if everyone tried to out-give one another? If we saw someone in need, we automatically took care of it. We were always looking for ways to help. But we don’t live in a culture of givers, it seems like we live in a culture of takers. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us see how a spirit of generosity is part of the prescription for living a more meaningful life. We’re considering the Apostle Paul’s counsel about living in a way that honors God. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take for God to turn around an entire generation? The answer may be closer to home than you think. In this special message, Pastor Greg Laurie gives reasons to hope for another spiritual awakening in your lifetime—and shares how you can play a part. Notes America is at a crossroads right now. We are seeking to redefine what God has defined. We are sowing the wind and reaping the whirlwind. The seeds we sowed in the ‘60s have become a crop of destruction today. This younger generation is looking for answers. Today’s younger generation needs help! God sent a spiritual awakening before, and we want this next generation to have one too! “Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You?” —Psalm 85:6 Our responsibility is to tell the next generation what God did for us. Revolution means, “upheaval” and “change”; it also means “turning around” or “rotating.” It’s returning to something. America has never been more divided. God says the source of the problems is His house, the church! An earmark of the Jesus Movement: The Holy Spirit was at work in our lives. An earmark of the Jesus Movement: There was a belief in the soon return of Jesus. Jesus has given us an unprecedented open door. We need to look for open doors to share our faith. We should never put a wall up where God has opened a door. God has given us the power and resources we need. We need to keep God’s Word and not deny His name. Open your heart and life to the work of the Holy Spirit. Be ready for the Lord’s imminent return. Walk through the doors God opens for you and take risks. Keep His Word and be faithful. Scripture Referenced Joel 1:3 2 Chronicles 7:14 --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In any gym, there are people there who are just getting it done . . . a certain number of reps, a certain duration of time, and–whew!–they’re done, and they’re gone. And there are others who push themselves, and they give it their all! And it shows. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out that this life is too important to muddle through. The Lord wants us to run this race with endurance, and to run this race to win. We’ll learn more about how to do that in Acts. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As believers, sometimes it seems we’re living in some kind of weird, upside-down culture where right is wrong, up is down, and sin is to be celebrated. We feel disoriented, like aliens on a strange planet. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out that sometimes people may feel a bit disoriented when they talk to us. He’ll show us ways to find common ground, use common language, and capture their interest with our message of hope. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As believers who want to share our faith, sometimes it would seem we’re attempting to deliver a message that many people just don’t want to hear. They think they don’t NEED to hear it. The truth is, everyone needs the hope of Jesus Christ. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie reminds us that God built us with a hunger for God. People may try to feed that hunger with the things of this world, but sooner or later they’ll come to realize their hunger is for something more. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some people come to Christ instantly, as soon as they hear the Gospel. It’s the miracle of a moment. Others resist that decision for decades, until one day they realize their need for Christ. Sometimes it’s a crisis or tragedy that brings them to that point, other times it’s as though their eyes suddenly opened. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie shows us the miraculous conversion of a certain Philippian jailer . . . a conversion that would sweep through his entire family. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We like to put our best foot forward. It’s a cultural thing. We keep certain things to ourselves. If we’ve just bounced a check, or we’re in over our head at work, or there’s relationship stress, we stay silent on those subjects. But today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out that when Jesus makes His home in our hearts, we give Him permission to explore the hidden issues we’re keeping to ourselves—yeah, including the one you’re thinking about right now. Let’s get some good encouragement. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can I serve God? That’s a question every Christian should ask themselves. As Pastor Greg Laurie says, every Christian is called to serve Him—and it should be our greatest joy. See what other insightful comments he has in this special message. Notes “For David, after he had served the purpose of God in his generation, fell asleep.” —Acts 13:36 To fall asleep means, “to die.” A long life is not the objective; fulfilling God’s purpose for your life is. 1. Focus on what God has given you, not on what He did not give you. One day, we too will give our final words. 2. Have an intimate relationship with God. 3. Serve God with a whole heart and willing mind—a person who really knows God will want to serve God. “The joy of the Lord is your strength!” —Nehemiah 8:10 Every Christian is called to serve God. 4. Put God first in your life and everything else will find its proper order. Prayer is about getting our will in alignment with God’s Will. God answered Solomon’s prayer and gave him great wisdom. Solomon compromised his relationship with God. Solomon disobeyed God’s commandments and married a nonbeliever. It’s much harder to pull someone up than it is for them to pull you down. Solomon compromised his morality. In Hebrew, to seek and explore means, “to investigate the roots of a matter.” Solomon looked to the pursuit of knowledge without God. After many years wasted, Solomon finally came to his senses. Solomon warned others to not make the same mistake (Ecclesiastes 12:1). The end of a life is known by its beginning, and the evening by the morning of it. If you leave God out of the picture, your life is going to be empty, meaningless, and futile. Before you know it, you, like Solomon, will have more life behind you than before. You have two major dates in your life: Your date of birth and date of death. Scripture Referenced 2 Corinthians 6:14 Ecclesiastes 12:13–14 --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this classic crusade message, Pastor Greg Laurie poses a pointed question to his audience: “What Do You Life For?” Pastor Greg declares, “It is our short time on earth—it is here that we determine where we will spend eternity.” With a steady look at the apostle Paul's words in Philippians 1, this message challenges us to look to Heaven not only as our destination but our motivation and hope. If you would like to know more about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, just go to KnowGod.org. This message was originally given at the Wachovia Center (now Wells Fargo Center) in Philadelphia, PA on October 3, 2008. The theme for this event was “Down-to-Earth Talk About Heaven.” If you are in the Southern California area, make plans to join Pastor Greg Laurie November 5 and 6 at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Learn more at https://events.harvest.org/socal-harvest-2022. --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In so many arguments, as one person is making her point, the other person is formulating his response. He’s not really hearing her point, he’s preparing his counterpoint. It’s tactical gamesmanship, and they’re keeping mental score. Hopefully that DOESN’T sound familiar. But if it does, today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us learn to resolve conflict by following an example we see in Scripture. Today, practical help for everyone. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Disagreement and conflict is almost inevitable in human relationships. When that happens, some people put up their fists . . . others call up their lawyer. Others look up the Proverb that says a soft answer turns away wrath. In the big picture, those moments can either undergird our efforts to share Christ, or undermine them. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us deal with everyone in a spirit of grace and humility. We’re in Acts chapter 15. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we have something enjoyable to look forward to tomorrow, it makes the stresses of today a little easier to take. Have you noticed that? It’s all about perspective. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us adopt a biblical perspective on the challenges of today. It’s a message called “Why Do Christians Have to Suffer?” We’ll look ahead to our everlasting reward, and let that give us encouragement for the temporary pain and opposition we face today. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever seen your child face something pretty tough? Maybe it was an important medical procedure that was quite painful. You knew it was necessary and helpful in the long term, but your child just focused on the suffering. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us trust our Heavenly Father to know what’s best—even when there’s pain in the present. We’ll learn the encouragement that comes when we focus on the future benefit, and the present presence of God in our lives. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Gospel can be an uncomfortable message. It’s a message of sin and its consequences . . . but of course the remedy found in the Lord’s sacrifice. But that discussion can be so effective in an atmosphere of encouragement. It’s what their heart needs wrapped in what their heart wants. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out how to be an encourager in the tradition of Barnabas. As we study the book of Acts today, we’ll see how we can follow in his reassuring footsteps. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How important are our choices? When we look back at David’s failures, we get the answer: very important. In this Sunday episode, special guest Pastor Jonathan Laurie reminds us that our actions not only impact us, but also our children. With them, we lay their foundation. Tune in to see how you can ensure it’s a sturdy one! Notes The way we walk matters. “The chastening hand of a loving heavenly Father is a very different thing from the judging hand of a holy God.” —Alan Redpath The choices we make matter. 1. The Death of David and Bathsheba’s First Son The hope of Heaven guarantees a reunion. 2. The Rape of Tamar Monogamy is God’s original and best design. We cannot pretend that our actions do not affect those around us. When you engage in sin, it is easy to see the same sin in others, but hard to correct. 3. The Murder of Amnon 4. The Rebellion and Death of Absalom Then Joab came to Absalom at his house and demanded, "Why did your servants set my field on fire?" —2 Samuel 14:31–33 So Joab told the king what Absalom had said. Then at last David summoned Absalom, who came and bowed low before the king, and the king kissed him. Our actions today lay the foundation upon which our children and our descendants will build their lives. The Promise: God does not just sweep life away; instead, He devises ways to bring us back when we have been separated from Him. Scripture Referenced Galatians 6:7 Matthew 7:2 1 Thessalonians 4:3 Hebrews 12:6 2 Corinthians 5:17 --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we revisit a message from Pastor Greg Laurie titled, "God in Pursuit." Preaching from the story of the prophet Jonah, Pastor Greg describes how God pursues us in order to have a relationship with us. Sometimes we run from God, not understanding that He is looking out for our own good. Are you not convinced of God's lovingkindness and offer of forgiveness of sins to you? Pastor Greg says, "Jesus Christ came to pay a debt He did not owe because we owed a debt we could not pay. And if you'll believe in Him and turn from your sin, you can be forgiven." Learn more about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ by going to KnowGod.org. This message was originally delivered at the SoCal Harvest in Anaheim, California on Sunday night, August 25, 2013. Since 1990, more than 9.8 million people have participated in Harvest Crusades events in person or online around the United States. --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Someone can brighten our day with just a smile . . . or a kind word. Others seem to steal the sunshine and rain on our parade. Isn’t it interesting that other people have that kind of influence on us? Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out we should take that to heart and learn to have a positive influence on others. It’s not that hard to do, and the rewards are wonderful. You’ve joined us for a study in the book of Acts Pastor Greg has called The Upside-Down Life. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some people seem to dabble at prayer, “Lord, bless everybody, everywhere. Amen.” Others get on their knees and pray earnestly, whole-heartedly, passionately. Prayer can actually energize our faith . . . and faith can energize our prayers. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us move to a more immersive, more rewarding experience in talking with God. We’ll learn some important principles that’ll take us there. It’s a good time to take notes. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever lose your electricity at home? It’s surprising how much we depend on it. We know the power’s out but, when we walk into a room, what do we automatically reach for? The light switch. Muscle memory. We take that connection for granted. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out the connection we each have with God through prayer. And when we ignore that connection, it starts to feel like the lights are out in our faith. Good encouragement coming from the book of Acts today. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever been to an auction, or seen one on TV? Maybe classic cars or farm animals. As you’re sitting there, you have to be very quiet and still. You scratch your head at the wrong moment and you’ll suddenly own a 1500 lb Texas Longhorn! Today on A NEW BEGINNING, we’ll see we need to be careful in our speech and attitude toward the Lord. Pastor Greg Laurie points out how our behavior should draw people to the Lord, not stand in the way of that decision. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you find a great restaurant, or see a good movie, chances are you’re not shy in mentioning it to someone else. We like to pass along helpful suggestions. But so many of us just don’t feel comfortable in suggesting someone consider the hope of the Gospel. We’ll talk about that reluctance today on A NEW BEGINNING as Pastor Greg Laurie continues his studies in the book of Acts. We’ll learn to follow the example of our First Century forefathers and discover the thrill of spreading the Good News. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever thought your sin was so horrible that there was no coming back? Pastor Greg Laurie has good news for you: God gives second chances. In this Sunday episode, hear the story of a man who fell away from God and was in need of forgiveness. Notes “My heart is fixed; my heart is fixed, O Lord.” —Psalm 57:7 The actual sin David committed lasted only a minute, but the repercussions of his sin lasted the rest of his life. “Let him that thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” —1 Corinthians 10:12 David’s fall came after great spiritual success. The sins we commit today may come back to haunt us tomorrow. 2 Samuel 5 tells us David took concubines, after he became king, in direct disobedience to God. You do not feed lust; you starve it! David was sleeping when he should have been fighting. Our greatest battles do not necessarily come when we are working hard; they often come when we have some leisure time on our hands and when we are bored. When deluded by sin, we do not think clearly because sin makes us stupid. Instead of confessing, David tried to hide his sin. “The thing that David had done displeased the Lord!” —2 Samuel 11:27 Psalm 32 describes the futility and misery of sin that is unconfessed. God disciplines those He loves. We have ourselves to blame when we fall into sin. There is only one correct response to being caught in sin: “I have sinned!” When David was confronted about his sin, he repented. When King Saul was confronted about his sin, he got worse. Despite David’s sin, he was given a second chance in life. Bathsheba made it into the Messianic line of Jesus Christ. Scripture Referenced Matthew 6:31 Hebrews 12:8, 12 Proverbs 28:13 James 1:14–15 Matthew 1:5–6 --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In spite of the fact that eternal life is a free gift from God, paid for by Jesus’ death at Calvary, some accept that gift and some don’t. That’s startling to believers: “heaven or hell, take your pick.” “Yeah, I just don’t think heaven’s the right fit for me.” Today on A NEW BEGINNING, we’ll take a look at that choice and how people each make the choices that lead to life or death. Pastor Greg Laurie is presenting an enlightening series in the book of Acts called The Upside Down Life. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are several groups of people who used to say they’d never become religious, never darken the door of a church building, never be caught carrying a Bible. Today, we call one of those groups “believers” . . . another of those groups “pastors” . . . and another group “evangelists.” Pastor Greg Laurie is a member of all three groups! And today on A NEW BEGINNING, he brings us good encouragement about sharing the Good News with people who need to hear some good news. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re on an inspiring journey through the book of Acts here on A NEW BEGINNING. Pastor Greg Laurie is helping us learn from our spiritual forefathers and see how “The Acts of the Apostles” show us how to live more rewarding lives here and now, 20 centuries later. Today, in a message called A Life Well-Lived, Pastor Greg helps us consider the story of a young man in Acts chapter 7 that set a strong example for other believers to follow. It was an inspiring life, right up to the very end. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Remember back to your school years. You’re in class, paying attention to the teacher, but the cut-up in the front row, the class clown, starts to...perform. He’s miming what the teacher is saying. You try not to look, but you can’t help yourself. Distractions are powerful, aren’t they? And they’re everywhere. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out the importance of keeping our eyes fixed on the Author and Finisher of our faith, Jesus Christ. It’s the pathway of a life well-lived. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the movie industry, they talk about the “suspension of disbelief.” It’s all make- believe, right? But they try to make the costumes, the special effects, and the acting so convincing that it suspends our disbelief. They hope we forget it’s fake, or fiction, if you prefer. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out that some people sort of act their way through life. They try to suspend our disbelief about how they’re really living. We’ll see that’s a fruitless pursuit. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is God like? The answer may depend on who you ask. Instead of allowing others to form our view of Him, we need to find the answer ourselves—and we can only do that by diving into the Word. Don’t miss your chance to know Him better through this powerful message from Pastor Greg Laurie. Notes The Bible refers to the Almighty as “Father.” The New Testament picture of God is as a loving heavenly Father. God the Father longs for fellowship with us. The Old Testament is a beautiful picture of a loving God. After David was selected by God, his troubles began. The same can be true for us. David was willing to forgive his enemies. David reached out to a potential rival, even an enemy, and loved him. God specializes in picking up people who have been dropped in life. The word kindness means, “grace.” Grace is not based on merit; it’s based on love. Just as David reached out to Mephibosheth, God reaches out to us! This is a picture of what God is like: David, like Jesus, showed forgiveness and love instead of judgment. Mephibosheth was afraid when he heard David wanted to see him. “Nothing twists or deforms the soul more than a low or unworthy conception of God.” —A. W. Tozer 1. Don’t let other people form your view of God. Jesus said, “Follow Me.” 2. Forgive your enemies, whether they deserve it or not. 3. Leave the past in the past. David, out of sheer love for Jonathan, demonstrated grace to Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth. Mephibosheth had nothing, deserved nothing, and could repay nothing. Mephibosheth was adopted as a son and invited to eat at the king’s table. Other Scripture Referenced Psalm 27:4 --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this short episode, Pastor Greg Laurie addresses the question about whether we need to shelter our children. He gives us important insight on preparing our children for the real world. Listen in to good family insight! --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we hide behind a facade–a false-front–trying to pretend we’re someone we’re not, we’re not fooling God. He knows who we really are. In fact, He knows us better than we know ourselves. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out the peril of living an imitation life. It’s a disappointment to the Lord, and our act may not be believable to those around us either. It’s a good opportunity for a reset, and to live a life of transparent honesty going forward. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus warned us that we may face persecution for our faith. It doesn’t mean we’re doing something wrong, it may be an indication that we’re right with the Lord. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points to that characteristic and several others that show us how we’re doing. If we’re walking closely with the Lord, these traits will be obvious. It’s good insight, and a good opportunity to take some notes. Pastor Greg is in the book of Acts today, reading from the New Living Translation. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we spend some serious time out in the sun, it’s pretty obvious. People can see it all over our face. “You got some sun, didn’t you?” Well today, we’ll see when we spend some time with the Son, it may be just as obvious. People will wonder what’s different about us. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie continues our studies of the Church of the First Century in the book of Acts. Let’s see how to show we’ve been with Jesus. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Great things rarely happen when we’re deep inside our comfort zones. No one’s ever heard of the great LazyBoy Revival, or the evangelistic Hammock Crusades! No, somebody’s got to get up and do somethin’! And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie brings us some good news: God empowers and equips those He calls into service. You may already have a special God-given talent you’re not even aware of. Today, we’ll learn how to identify and use those abilities. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether you’re a woodworker, a steel worker, or in another form of construction, you know that the tougher the job, the more the need for power tools. Hard to build a skyscraper with just a tape measure and a good idea. Well, spiritually speaking, with some of our assignments, the Lord gives us power tools. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out the importance of putting them to work. It’s part of his series in the book of Acts called The Upside Down Life. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We don’t leap toward spiritual decline, but crawl toward it, little by little; and we experience it when we give the Devil a foothold. As Pastor Greg says, “Show me a Christian who’s starting to compromise, and I’ll show you a Christian who’s headed toward spiritual ruin.” Hear what else he has to say on the matter in this Sunday episode! Notes Do not make deals with the devil, you will lose. The devil is evil, the devil is wicked, and the devil is cunning. A Christian who begins to comprise is headed toward spiritual ruin. You are loved, you are needed, and your life matters! Distressed in debt and discontented. 1. Distressed. Under the pressure of stress. 2. In Debt. To have a number of creditors. 3. Discontented. To be bitter of soul, having been wronged or mistreated. God specializes in taking the outcasts of this culture and making them people of God. We see ourselves for what we are; God sees us for what we will be! “Saul sought him every day, but God did not deliver David into his hand.” —1 Samuel 23:14 Satan is described as, “A roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” Satan believes the Bible and knows that his days are numbered. 1. We need to do God’s Will the right way at the right time. 2. We should not take vengeance on people, even if they deserve it. Forgiveness is not a suggestion in Scripture; God commands it! Forgiven people should be forgiving people! “Everyone thinks forgiveness is a lovely thing until they have someone to forgive.” —C. S. Lewis To forgive means, surrendering the right to get even. Godly sorrow produces repentance. 3. You cannot make deals with the devil. Any person can be saved, regardless of what they have done! The price has been paid for our redemption. The debt has been canceled. Scripture Referenced Ephesians 4:27 Psalm 57:4 Ecclesiastes 3:11 Romans 12:14, 17-19 Ephesians 4:31-32 Colossians 2:14 --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this short snippet, Pastor Greg Laurie addresses the exodus of many residents from the state of California and offers an optimistic point of view for the golden state. Listen in for some encouraging thoughts. --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Lord has many options for reaching us in a time of need. Certainly one of the most obvious and most important is the local church. In a crisis, help may be as close as the church down the street. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us learn from the early Church. As we study the book of Acts today, we’ll see they set the example for reaching out with the care and concern of Jesus Christ and they provide us an opportunity to serve—to give as we have received. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christianity is a worldwide faith. Some say over 31% are Christians the world over. Yet, if you rewind history, Christianity began in a small geographic area on the other side of the globe, with just a handful of followers. How in the world did they reach the world!? Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie brings us some good insight from the book of Acts that’ll help us encourage one another in the faith, and reach our world in our time with the love of Christ. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When God wanted to share His message of love, surprisingly He chose to use people to reach people. Flawed, fallible, foible-filled people. Ahh, but the power of the message is not in us messengers, it’s built in to the message. And the boldness and direction we need is built in to us by the Spirit who lives within us. Pastor Greg Laurie discusses that today on A NEW BEGINNING as he continues a message from his brand new series in Acts—a series called The Upside Down Life. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether it’s a small folk group or a large orchestra, beautiful music comes when everyone plays together in rhythm and harmony. If each is playing a different tune, they have a word for that: yuck! Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out the importance of unity in our efforts to bring the Gospel to our generation. In a time of division and disunity in the culture, it’s more important than ever that we all come together “in one accord,” as the Bible puts it. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The home renovation business is a 340 billion dollar industry. Reviving an old home takes some skill and a lot of hard work. Well, God has a blueprint for reviving our culture and He’s looking for our involvement in the project. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie continues his opening message in a new series called The Upside Down Life. It’s a look at the part we’re called to play in bringing a spiritual renovation to the world in which we live. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the midst of feeling down, we need to look up. Caving to hardship can lead to weakened faith, like David experienced. Listen in as Pastor Greg Laurie reminds us to keep our eyes on God, no matter what. Notes King David is described as “the man after God’s own heart.” But King Saul could be described as “the man after man’s own heart.” “Indeed, I have played the fool and erred exceedingly.” —1 Samuel 26:21 Fear replaced courage in the heart of David. E. A. R.=False Evidence Appearing Real The very people who are out to get us are often the ones who are afraid of us, because we are a threat to them and their power. Though people abandon us, God never will! “If God is for us, who can be against us?” —Romans 8:31 David went to the wrong place for solace. Sin makes you stupid! I cry out to the LORD; I plead for the LORD's mercy. I pour out my complaints before him and tell him all my troubles. When I am overwhelmed, you alone know the way I should turn. Wherever I go, my enemies have set traps for me. I look for someone to come and help me, but no one gives me a passing thought! No one will help me; no one cares a bit what happens to me. We need to look up and put our focus on God, not our problems. It is okay to complain in your prayers. Do not cry out against God; cry out to God. When the Israelites criticized and turned against Moses, he cried unto the Lord. When John the Baptist was beheaded, the disciples went and told Jesus. When the bottom drops out, cast your cares on God! God is mindful of you and your interests. If it is a concern for you, it is also a concern for Him. Casting our cares is something we need to do daily, and sometimes even hourly. When your burdens and worries pile up, cast them on God! Come to Jesus with your burdens today! Scripture Referenced Psalm 142:1-4 Exodus 15:25 Matthew 14:12 1 Peter 5:6 — Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we revisit a classic Veteran’s Day interview between Pastor Greg Laurie and Captain Scotty Smiley. They discuss Scotty’s service as an Army Ranger and his experience as the Army’s first active-duty, blind officer. On April 6, 2005, Scotty lost his eyesight when a suicide car bomber blew himself up thirty meters in front of Scotty’s IAV Stryker vehicle. Shrapnel blew through Scotty’s eyes, leaving him blinded and temporarily paralyzed. He woke up in Walter Reed Army Medical Center a week later. Through questioning his faith, Scotty made a decision to forgive and rebuild his life and continue to serve in the Army, becoming the first blind active-duty officer in military history. Listen in for an amazing testimony. Learn more about his story at hopeunseen.com. It’s important that we take the time to remember and honor our military veterans. It’s because of their selfless service and sacrifice that we live in a free country today. --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before COVID, few of us had ever been subjected to a quarantine. But that experience effectively isolated us in a bubble. In a spiritual sense, sometimes believers are constantly isolated from the world in a self-imposed quarantine. We don’t want to be OF the world so we try not to be IN the world. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out how that neglects one of our most important responsibilities. It’s the kick off of a new series in Acts called The Upside-Down Life. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether you’re an electrician or a chef, an auto mechanic or a roofer, chances are you served some sort of apprenticeship. You learned the trade from someone with a few years under his or her tool belt. Well, the Lord has a similar plan for how believers can pass knowledge from older to younger. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie shares the kinds of precepts that we should be passing on. If you missed the first 14 precepts in this thoughtful message, get a replay by checking out the three previous episodes! Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s a certain wisdom that comes from growing older, from learning some of the lessons of life. There’s even more wisdom that comes when we embrace God’s Word as our pattern of living. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie looks to the Bible for practical principles we can put to use. If you missed some of the principles he’s already covered, we invite you to catch up by listening to the previous two programs! Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org. A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.