Hickory Ridge-cast

"Science is really good at taking things apart so that we can see how they work. Faith puts them back together again so that we can see what they mean." - Alister McGrathLooking for more HOW'S in your faith? Looking for more WHY'S in your science books? Even in something as debated as creationism, evolution, & old VS young earth believers, there is peace, understanding, and a middle ground that can be found - if we are willing to leave behind our own close-minded views!

When people think of the words 'Science' and 'Religion' the first things that usually come to their mind are 'conflict, opposites, & incompatible.'In this message, we look at how the two are not mutually exclusive, and how science points to the ancient truths found in the Bible, and how the Bible can be confirmed and fit within many modern scientific views... starting off with the Big Bang!

We don't serve a God that's silent. He desires to speak to, guide, and know each of us on a deep, personal level. But in a sea of voices, we must learn how best to hear from God. In this week's message, Pastor Justin gives shows how scripture can reveal the Lord's voice to us!

"God has a unique plan for your life but you can’t know God’s plan if you don’t know God and you can’t know God if you don’t spend time with Him." Special guest speaker Rita Clucas dives deep into the truths of self-sacrifice that can be found in 2 Corinthians.

"99% devotion is 1% short..." We serve a God who loves and cares for us; but also one who does so jealously! This isn't about perfection, and never falling short, because our God is abundant in grace and forgiveness! But it IS about priorities, obedience, and being willing to fully submit to God's authority. Enjoy this week's challenging message!

Who in your life "has your ear?" Is it your friends, your family, your co-workers? Maybe an author, or podcast you frequent. If we don't take time to stop and evaluate, it can be easy to find we've accidentally put ourselves in an echo-chamber. That comfortable place where the only voices and opinions we hear match our own, without challenging us, or bringing diversity. In this message, learn from King Rehoboam on the importance of listening to wise counsel!

So many things prioritize our time, space in our heart, and influence our life. What we must be cautious of, however, is that these things do not become idols... leading us away from God's plan, and onto a dangerous path. Like the King in this week's story, we must be willing to forcefully remove idols - no matter the cost!

Do you constantly deal with the painful bruises of "stones" thrown at you? Those times when people bring up your past mistakes, refuse to let go of your slip-ups, and constantly criticize your every move?Maybe YOU'RE the one throwing stones at yourself. Your inner voice the ever-present critic, leading to extreme self-hatred, or a crippling victim mentality... Or instead, you're the one throwing the stones at other people. Never forgetting those that wronged you, always pointing out how they let you down.Whichever of those you most identify with, God wants to set us free from a life of stone-throwing, and bring us into a life of choosing grace! Grace for ourselves, grace for others... Abundant, healing, life-giving grace, each and every day!

Pastor Justin starts looking at Kings of the Old Testament - some who succeeeded, others who failed - and how learning from stories of their lives can help us each level up spiritually! This week: 8 YEAR OLD King Josiah.

This week: Wayne and Doris Sommers share wisdom with us; including finding healing from a wounding childhood, the part music has played in their lives, and stories from time as missionaries!