Episodes

  • Dana & Matt - Open Discussions about Philippians

    Dana & Matt - Open Discussions about Philippians
    Feb 2 2024

    This episode is an open discussion between Matt, my pastor, and myself about our study in Philippians.  I hope you find it encouraging!
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    44 mins
  • Psalm 127, Colossians 1:24-27, Giving All to God.

    Psalm 127, Colossians 1:24-27, Giving All to God.
    Jan 29 2024

    Can you give all to Almight God?  Unless the LORD builds the house, you labor in vain.
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    22 mins
  • Philippians Study - Day 20 - Philippians 4:14-12 - Gospel Partnerships

    Philippians Study - Day 20 - Philippians 4:14-12 - Gospel Partnerships
    Jan 26 2024

    Hello, fellow seekers of truth and believers in the power of God's Word! It's Dana from Rock Solid Journals, and I'm excited to share the final episode of our Philippians study, marking day 20 of this incredible journey. As we wrap up this series, I want to reflect on the profound lessons and insights we've gained together.

    Throughout this study, we've walked hand-in-hand, Pastor and I, through the pages of Philippians. We've written it out, contemplated its meaning in our own words, prayed through it, and earnestly sought to understand what God is telling us. Today, I'm not just delivering a podcast; I'm extending a heartfelt thank you for engaging with the Word, for embracing the Lord through His teachings.

    Let's dive into the concluding verses of Philippians, specifically 4:14-23. Paul, in his unique and inspired way, expresses gratitude to the Philippians for their unwavering support in his ministry. It's not merely about material gifts; it's about the spiritual fruit that blooms in partnership with God. As I read these verses, let me share my personal reflections, musings, and the whispers of God that I've encountered.

    In My Own Words:

    In my own words, I see Paul expressing gratitude to the Philippians for bearing his burdens, understanding his history, and standing as the sole church that partnered with him in ministry. There's a beauty in their genuine care, reaching out even when no one else did. The offering wasn't just a transaction; it was a fragrant offering, a pleasing sacrifice to God.

    As I reflect on this, I'm reminded that God's provision surpasses human giving. It's not about the gift itself but the heart behind it, a heart that seeks to partner with God in His mission. Gifts given in our own power are not what God desires. He wants our obedience, guided by conviction from Him.

    Reading between the lines of Paul's journey, I'm challenged to be obedient in my giving and in partnering with others in the gospel. Whom is God calling me to support, encourage, or uplift? It's a personal and intimate journey, a journey of obedience that strengthens the body of Christ.

    And then, there's the beautiful irony in Paul's situation – imprisoned, yet reaching Caesar's household with the gospel. It's a powerful reminder that God's power transcends earthly power. It encourages me to recognize that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. It sparks a commitment to strengthen the body of Christ, even in challenging circumstances.

    Personal Prayer:

    In my personal prayer, I couldn't help but think about a dear sister struggling to raise support for mission work overseas. Her challenges echo the difficulties in finding gospel partners. My prayer revolves around her, asking God to open her eyes to see that her partnership is with Him, instilling boldness and unwavering confidence as she continues in His calling.

    Conclusion:

    As we conclude this series on Philippians, let's remember that no person can give greater than God. Let's embrace conviction, obedience, and the tremendous opportunity we have in yielding to God's will. Paul, in prison, reached the powerful Caesar's household, showcasing that God's power is truly unmatched.

    May this podcast be a form of obedience, strengthening each of you as you hear the truth of God's Word. Together, let's continue to be faithful servants, partnering in the mission of Christ, and strengthening the body of Christ through our generous spirits.

    Feel free to share your insights, reflections, or any thoughts with me at dana@rocksolidjournals.com. Let's keep the conversation going. Until next time, have a blessed day, and may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
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    20 mins
  • Philippians Study - Day 19 - Philippians 4:10-13 - Be Content

    Philippians Study - Day 19 - Philippians 4:10-13 - Be Content
    Jan 25 2024
    Welcome to another day of our journey through Philippians! Today, we're diving into Philippians 4:10-13, where Paul shares a profound secret about contentment. As we explore these verses, let's unravel the insights, reflect on the meaning, and draw inspiration for our spiritual walk.   Philippians 4:10-13 – The Secret of Contentment Paul begins by expressing his joy in the Lord for the Philippians' revived concern for him. He acknowledges their care, even though they had limited opportunities to express it. What follows is a powerful declaration of contentment in any circumstance. Paul unveils the secret he has learned: the ability to face plenty and hunger, abundance, and need, all through the strength provided by Christ.   In My Own Words: Unpacking the Passage In my own words, I summarized Paul's message, emphasizing the joy he found in the Philippians' concern and his contentment in every situation. The focus shifts to the secret of contentment, which lies in Christ's strength. This insight challenges us to rethink our understanding of the well-known phrase, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me."   Avoiding Secondhand Faith: Wrestling with Scripture The discussion emphasizes the importance of wrestling directly with Scripture rather than relying solely on commentaries. The method involves writing out the passage, paraphrasing in one's own words, and engaging in prayerful reflection. The goal is to cultivate a firsthand understanding of the Word, allowing God to speak directly to the individual.   Prayerful Reflection: The Path to True Contentment The reflection delves into a prayerful dialogue, pondering whether true contentment can only come from Jesus. The question arises: does God get frustrated when we seek abundance in the world rather than finding contentment through His Son? The prayer seeks guidance on being faithful with physical abundance, understanding that possession is an illusion, and recognizing that Jesus possesses us.   Discovering the True Source of Strength The reflection concludes by highlighting the revelation that true contentment can only come from Jesus. All goodness comes from God, and contentment is found through the gateway provided by Christ. The call is to lean into Jesus' strength, gripping the cross and allowing God to unlock the secret of contentment. The prayer closes with a plea for guidance in living in God's strength and resisting the allure of the transient world.   Closing Thoughts: Embracing the Secret of Contentment As we conclude our exploration of Philippians 4:10-13, the overarching theme is the unveiling of the secret of contentment. Paul's journey inspires us to find true satisfaction not in worldly abundance but in the strength provided by Christ. May these verses encourage you to lean into Jesus' strength, embrace contentment in all circumstances, and experience the transformative power of God's Word in your life.   May you walk in the joy of the Lord and find contentment through the unshakable strength of Christ. Have a blessed day!
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    20 mins
  • Philippians Study - Day 18 - Philippians 4:8-9 - Focus on the Good

    Philippians Study - Day 18 - Philippians 4:8-9 - Focus on the Good
    Jan 24 2024
    Welcome back to our journey through Philippians! Today, we're delving into the rich insights of Philippians 4:8-9, where Paul addresses the Philippian church, urging believers to focus their thoughts and actions on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Let's unravel these verses and explore the transformative power they hold.   Philippians 4:8-9 – Dwell on the Good, Practice the Good In this segment, Paul emphasizes the importance of intentional thinking and purposeful action. He encourages believers to fix their minds on things that reflect God's goodness. These verses go beyond mere contemplation; they call for active engagement with the qualities that honor and glorify God.   In My Own Words: A Summation of Paul's Message In my own words, I expressed the essence of Paul's message. I emphasized the need for believers to dwell on thoughts that align with God's nature, practicing what they have learned, heard, received, and seen in Paul. The connection between thinking and doing becomes evident – a powerful combination for spiritual growth.   Dwelling on the Good and Practicing It The discussion further explores the dual nature of dwelling on the good and actively practicing it. The analogy of riding two different bicycles in opposing directions illustrates the absurdity of trying to live with one foot in each world. The key takeaway is that genuine faith requires action, not passive adherence, and that practicing what is good leads to transformative growth.   Prayerful Reflection: Yielding Everything to God The segment transitions into a heartfelt prayer, acknowledging the challenge of yielding everything to God. The prayer seeks God's guidance in embracing His plans, even when faced with uncertainties and the friction of resistance in the world. The plea is for the strength to lay aside personal plans and embrace suffering for the sake of Christ.   God's Goodness Requires Action The concluding remarks stress the necessity of action in response to God's goodness. Peace from God manifests itself in practice, and believers are urged not to waste this peace in the void of inaction. The call is to assess one's own position – whether in action or inaction, in practice or malpractice – and to focus on the goodness of God in the midst of anxiety and challenges.   Closing Thoughts: A Call to Embrace Transformation As we conclude this reflection on Philippians 4:8-9, the overarching theme is a call to embrace transformation through intentional thinking and purposeful action. Believers are encouraged to fix their minds on God's goodness, practice what they have learned, and allow the peace of God to guide their hearts. In doing so, they can navigate the challenges of life with faith, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose.   May these verses inspire you to dwell on the good and actively practice it, experiencing the transformative power of God's goodness in your life. Have a blessed day!
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    18 mins
  • Philippians Study - Day 17 - Philippians 4:4-7 - Abolish Anxiety

    Philippians Study - Day 17 - Philippians 4:4-7 - Abolish Anxiety
    Jan 23 2024
    Welcome back to Rock Solid Journals! I'm Dana, and today marks Day 17 of our study in Philippians. We're diving into Philippians 4:4-7, exploring the culmination of ideas that bring revolutionary insights for the Christian faith. As we unravel these verses, we'll discover a formula presented by Paul to combat anxiety and embrace a spirit of thanksgiving. Philippians 4:4-7 – Rejoice, Be Reasonable, Do Not Be Anxious   The passage opens with a powerful exhortation: "Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice." Paul encourages believers to find their joy in the Lord continually. The subsequent verses instruct them to be reasonable with everyone, emphasizing that the Lord is near. Importantly, believers are urged not to be anxious but to replace anxiety with prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving.   In My Own Words: A Formula for Peace In my own words, I encapsulated the essence of these verses. Finding joy in the Lord and rejoicing in Him sets the tone. Being reasonable with all people and recognizing the nearness of the Lord curtails anxiety. The transformative formula Paul presents involves replacing anxiety with prayer and supplication, coupled with a thankful heart. This, Paul asserts, will result in a peace that surpasses understanding, guarding hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.   Digging Deeper: Unpacking the Formula The subsequent discussion revolves around the proposed formula. Rejoicing in the Lord implies acknowledging that all good things come from God. The call to not be anxious serves as a mindset shift, redirecting focus from worldly concerns to God's sovereignty. The key lies in the transformation of the heart through prayer and supplication infused with thanksgiving.   Personal Reflection: A Journey into Thanksgiving Prayer In a heartfelt reflection, I shared my personal experiences and struggles with anxiety. I urged listeners to consider the things that drive anxiety in their lives and ponder the transformative power of thanksgiving. I also acknowledged that, like many, I tend to dwell on negative feedback rather than focusing on the positive.   Prayer and Thanksgiving: A Shift in Perspective The heart of the discussion centered on prayer and thanksgiving. The formula Paul presents calls for a shift in perspective, where anxiety is replaced by a heart filled with gratitude. The act of thanking God even in the midst of stress and anxiety becomes a powerful tool for transformation.   Closing Thoughts: Finding Freedom in Thanksgiving As we conclude this reflection, I encouraged listeners to engage with Philippians 4:4-7 on a deeper level. The challenge is to embrace a thankful spirit before God in prayer, recognizing the transformative power it holds. I closed with a heartfelt prayer, seeking God's guidance and expressing gratitude for various aspects of life.   Conclusion: Embracing the Formula of Peace Philippians 4:4-7 presents a formula for peace – a journey from anxiety to gratitude. As we navigate the challenges of life, may we find solace in rejoicing in the Lord, being reasonable with others, and offering thankful prayers. In this formula lies the key to releasing anxiety and embracing a peace that transcends understanding. May your hearts be filled with thanksgiving, and may you experience the profound peace that comes from trusting in the Lord. Have a blessed day!
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    14 mins
  • Philippians Study - Day 16 - Philippians 4:1-3 - Stand Firm

    Philippians Study - Day 16 - Philippians 4:1-3 - Stand Firm
    Jan 22 2024
    Welcome back to Rock Solid Journals! Today marks Day 16 of our exploration through the book of Philippians using the Four Column Method. As we delve into Philippians 4:1-3, we find ourselves on the home stretch, with just a few more sessions to complete this meaningful journey. Let's not merely listen but engage with the Word of God as we uncover the richness of these verses.   In Philippians 4:1-3, Paul addresses his beloved brothers and sisters, expressing his deep love and longing for them. He urges them to stand firm in the Lord and calls on two specific individuals, Yudia and Syntyche, to reconcile their differences and agree in the Lord. Paul emphasizes the importance of unity in the body of Christ and seeks the assistance of a true companion in resolving this conflict.   As we reflect on these verses, it becomes evident that there is more beneath the surface than meets the eye. Paul's plea for unity and his unwillingness to overlook conflict reveal profound insights for us today.   Hold Fast to Your Faith: Standing Firm in the Lord The essence of Paul's message is clear—hold fast to your faith and stand firm in the Lord. He expresses deep affection for the Philippians, considering them a great joy and a crown to him. However, he does not shy away from addressing the discord between Yudia and Syntyche, urging them to put aside their differences. Paul acknowledges the faithful labor of these individuals, emphasizing their names in the book of life.   A Call to Unity in the Body of Christ Paul's unwillingness to overlook conflict underscores the significance of unity within the body of Christ. He implores a true companion to assist these women in reconciling, highlighting the collective effort needed to maintain harmony in the community of believers. The reference to other faithful laborers, including Clement, further emphasizes the importance of standing together in the face of discord.   A Prayer for Companionship and Unity As we ponder these verses, let us join in prayer. The recognition of companionship in the work of the gospel becomes evident. Separation from the body creates a longing for one another, as exemplified by Paul in prison. The call to stand firm in suffering, coupled with Paul's emphasis on the futility of quarreling, challenges us to maintain unity despite challenges.   In times of labor, both joy and hardship must be remembered collectively. This remembrance serves as a catalyst for fostering unity, inspiring believers to stand together, tightly joined in the labor of the gospel. Let our hands, minds, and hearts remain united as we navigate the challenges of proclaiming the gospel.   Reflecting on Personal Shortcomings The journey through Philippians prompts introspection. Stories, like the personal account shared, reveal moments of falling short, allowing quarreling to poison one's attitude. The call to stand firm together becomes a poignant reminder of our responsibility to maintain camaraderie in the body of Christ.   Conclusion: Pursuing Unity at All Costs In conclusion, Philippians 4:1-3 urges believers to stand firm, hold fast to their faith, and pursue unity in the body of Christ. Discord and pride must be confronted, and relationships within the faith community should be characterized by mutual support and understanding.   Let us heed the call to unity, recognizing the importance of relationships in our lives, and adapting in humility when sin surfaces. As we navigate conflicts, may our faith remain centered on God, the ultimate purpose and reason for our unity. Let us stand firm, locked in spirit with our brothers and sisters, pursuing the gospel at all costs. May you have a blessed day, united in the spirit and committed to the mission of honoring God in all things.
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    17 mins
  • Psalms & Prayer - Psalm 3

    Psalms & Prayer - Psalm 3
    Jan 20 2024

    Do you feel like your enemy is mounting an attack on you?  Fear not!  David felt the same, except for him, it was his own son that he counted as an enemy.  How could one possible find rest in a situation like this?  David did.
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    16 mins