Victory Church

The God Dream

ptorres — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 15:21:35 +0000

Jesus has extended a beautiful invitation for us to live out our true mission: to go into all the world and make disciples. God longs to fill the earth with His glory through all of creation—that includes you! He has given us, the Victory family, a God-sized dream. But how exactly has He called us to fulfill it? God is magnified when we fully embrace our unique callings and release what He’s put in us for His glory in the world around us. Tune in to learn more!

CHECK Yourself

ptorres — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 19:59:50 +0000

We were created to reflect Jesus’ true nature! At Victory, our desire as a church body is to individually and corporately become more like Him. We want the world around us to know Him through the way that we live and love. Tune in to learn more about the values of Jesus that we want to embody as a church family!

The Vision of Victory

ptorres — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 22:17:39 +0000

We’re on a mission—the Great Commission! Jesus has called us to make disciples wherever we go, and we have the honor and privilege of being chosen to carry out the beautiful plans He has for the world. At Victory, He has given us a unique vision to do just that. Tune in to learn more about the DNA of our church family and God’s ultimate vision for us as followers of Christ.

A House of Prayer

ptorres — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 15:13:08 +0000

Prayer is a beautiful invitation Into God’s presence! As followers of Jesus, and as a church family, it is the foundation of everything we do. We regularly pray to stay connected to God’s heart and seek His will to be done in the world around us. Tune in to learn more about what prayer is, its significance, and why Victory is a house of prayer!

Anchored in the Storm

ptorres — Sun, 18 Dec 2022 22:02:32 +0000

We live in an unpredictable world, where the wind and waves of life’s storms can leave us disheartened and drifting. At times, we may get weary, and it can feel like Jesus is silent. Where is He in the midst of our pain, and what can we do in the waiting? Let’s find strength for today in the promises of God and rest in Him as the anchor of our souls!

Anchored in Community

ptorres — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 18:15:32 +0000

Biblical community is a beautiful part of God’s design for our lives. He never intended for us to do life alone. He made us to thrive in godly relationships! That’s where we find support, encouragement, and healthy accountability. We were made to do life together so that we can endure in every life season and remain anchored in our faith. Tune in to learn how you can engage in community!

Anchored to Rebuilding

ptorres — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 16:02:46 +0000

Sometimes the opinions and beliefs of the world around us—culture, religion, and even our own experiences—may feel like truth. But when they don’t align with scripture, how can we find the will to release those beliefs and cling to the unchanging word of God? He welcomes our doubts and concerns, and we can find safety, clarity, and restoration in Him! Find out how to contend for the faith and stay anchored to God amid the storms of life.

Anchored in Gratitude

ptorres — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 13:39:05 +0000

God is always good! No matter what we may be facing, we can fix our eyes on Him and His goodness. There is power and strength in living life with a posture of gratitude. When we live with a grateful heart, we’re able to experience God’s peace—even in hard times. Tune in for three keys to living a life anchored in gratitude!

Anchored in Fear of the Lord

ptorres — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 12:58:25 +0000

Many things in life will attempt to steal our affection, but God is the only One who can truly satisfy us. That’s why He’s so worthy of our worship! We can never repay God for His love and faithfulness, but we can show our gratitude when we devote ourselves to honoring Him. Listen in as we learn how to be anchored in the fear of the Lord!

Anchored to Truth

ptorres — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 17:18:27 +0000

A ship makes it through a storm by dropping anchor, which makes it immovable in the wind and waves. In the same way, there are places where we can drop anchor when the storms of life try to take us off course. God’s Word says that we will have troubles, but we will have peace when stay close to Him. With Jesus, we can be equipped to not just survive the storms but stand firm in them! When trials arise, we can go to the source of all life for the wisdom we need to navigate to the other side. Tune in as we learn more!

Anchored to Jesus

ptorres — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 20:39:26 +0000

In life, storms are going to come. God knew that we would need a hope to hold onto when they do. Jesus is that hope, the one sent to keep us from being carried away by the wind and the waves. And there is no better person, place, or thing to have as an anchor for our souls! Find out how to stand firm in Christ during difficult times in part one of our Anchored series.

Sowing for the Next Season

ptorres — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 15:37:20 +0000

Our God is a God of new seasons. There will be times when we find ourselves at the end of a season—but it’s not the end of the story! While times may change, His purpose for our lives does not. How can we invest today to reap a beautiful harvest in the next chapter? Learn more when you tune in to the final message of our Family on Purpose series!

Successful Communication in Marriage

ptorres — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 12:49:41 +0000

Marriage is a beautiful gift from God! To build a strong foundation for marriage, we have to learn to communicate successfully. God wants your union to thrive in every way, and healthy communication is one of the most important aspects of a healthy marriage. Let’s learn how to communicate on purpose in this message from our friend Jimmy Evans!

Handling Your Money on Purpose

ptorres — Mon, 17 Oct 2022 12:35:04 +0000

How we think about and handle money are some of the most important aspects of family life. They are major factors in how our families experience God’s hand on us. Everything we have comes from Him. He graciously provides our needs and calls us to be good stewards over all He’s blessed us with. And God’s Word tells us that if we want true wisdom, all we have to do is ask Him. Tune in and learn how to handle money on purpose!

Parenting on Purpose

ptorres — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 16:39:14 +0000

Children are gifts from God. As parents, we have the special role and privilege of training them in the ways of the Lord—equipping them to fulfill their purpose in the earth. Everything we do is teaching our children something, and the greatest opportunity we have is to impart a deeper understanding of faith. Tune in as we talk about what it looks like to make God the center of everyday life and how to pass down love of the Lord from generation to generation!

A Voice in the Village

ptorres — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 13:43:59 +0000

Our youth need parents and others in the faith family to hear and respond to the desires of their hearts. They need those who can look beyond where they are right now and see them the way God does… And He wants to pour into them through you! We have a responsibility to show up as intentional examples to prepare our youth so they may become all God has destined them to be. Learn how to invest in the next generation in part two of Family on Purpose!

Priscilla & Aquila

ptorres — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 13:35:35 +0000

Jesus lived a mission-centered life and left a lasting impact in all of His relationships. He wants us to follow His lead, especially when it comes to our families. Family is a beautiful gift from God, and He has a special plan for yours! Even if you didn’t inherit a good family story, it’s never too late to change the legacy. Let’s commit to doing family on purpose—all for God’s glory—starting today.

Breaking Limits

ptorres — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 17:58:31 +0000

As followers of Jesus, we have been given open access to God. That means that we are not limited by the standards and customs of this world. He’s the One who hung the stars in the sky, who breathed you into being. There is nothing our God cannot do, and He dwells within us. Life with Him is full of adventure! Sometimes we just need to shift our perspective. How do we break free of the limits we’ve been operating under? Find out in Breaking Limits!

Launching Into Your Calling

ptorres — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 19:09:51 +0000

You exist to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. That’s called purpose! Your calling is how you uniquely use your gifts, passions and story in different seasons of life. It is doing what God has called you to do in your work, family, school, relationships, and more as you navigate different life stages. God wants to launch you into your calling, to partner with you to release them into the world for His glory!

From the Pit to the Palace

ptorres — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 19:06:02 +0000

Embracing the developmental process is an important part of walking in our purpose. God places us in different environments throughout our lives to develop our gifts, skills and character. He wants us to grow to become more like Him so that we represent Him well in a world that desperately needs Him. How do we begin to cultivate our unique God-given qualities so that He may be glorified wherever we go? Find out in part four of True North.

What’s My Calling

ptorres — Tue, 06 Sep 2022 19:48:01 +0000

We all have the same purpose: glorify God and enjoy Him forever. To walk that out, each of us has been given a uniquely specific blend of gifts, talents and abilities to use wherever God leads us. While our purpose remains the same, our calling can change throughout the various seasons of our lives. God wants us to trust Him, allowing Him to lead us on the journey He mapped long ago. But how do we begin to run in God’s perfect plan for our lives? Learn more in part two of True North!

Stop Limping and RUN

ptorres — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 16:32:15 +0000

Created on Purpose for a Purpose

ptorres — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 17:28:54 +0000

Have you ever wondered why you were created or what you were created to do? God made you on purpose for a purpose! He desires for you to move from simply existing to living fully alive, and He wrote out a special plan just for you. A unique path has been mapped out, one that allows you to walk in joy, glorifying God and enjoying Him forever! Tune into part one of our True North series as we discover the higher purpose for our God-given existence.

Boldness

ptorres — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 17:00:45 +0000

As Christ’s followers, we’re not just living life but sharing a message. Jesus was bold. When it comes to being like Him, it’s our responsibility to help people make the connection between the life we live and the God we serve. Jesus has called us to reconcile people to Him and not repel them from Him. They won’t know the Good News of His love, peace, and joy unless we tell them. God will be with us as we go. So, let’s do it!

Compassion

ptorres — Tue, 02 Aug 2022 16:30:56 +0000

Before Jesus left the earth, He set an expectation for His followers to live according to His example. When we represent Christ well, we give others the opportunity to experience His true nature and draw closer to Him. Compassion is one of the characteristics that attracts people to God. It is looking beyond our own needs to see the needs of others, learning to value them above ourselves. Let’s begin to engage the world with hearts of compassion and demonstrate the love of the Father to everyone we encounter!

Attentiveness

ptorres — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 16:38:10 +0000

Jesus has been known for many roles… the Son of God, Prince of Peace, healer, miracle worker, teacher, Rabbi, brother, friend, Savior of humanity, even rebel. And those who believe in Him are called to be like Him—to honor His teachings and His sacrifice by living as He did. So, how do we practically live this out today? Do we truly understand the character of Jesus and what it means to BE like Him every day? Join us as we get to know Jesus—and how to live boldly, as a reflection of His life—in our new series, Be Like Jesus.

Kindness

ptorres — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 16:34:41 +0000

As followers of Jesus, we are called to live and love like Him. What exactly does it mean to model our lives after His? One characteristic that Jesus constantly demonstrated was God’s kindness. Regardless of how people treated Him, He was intentional about doing good to others. Showing kindness is a key element to reflecting Jesus’ character to the world around us. Learn more in part two of our Be Like Jesus series!

Holiness

ptorres — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 16:31:14 +0000

When Jesus walked the earth, there was something about Him that attracted people out of darkness and into the light of God. He was known as a teacher, a healer, a friend, and many other roles. As His followers, we are called to live holy as He is holy, to be of the same heart and mind. In today’s world, what does it mean to walk in holiness like Jesus? Find out how in part one of our Be Like Jesus series.

It Is Mine

ptorres — Tue, 07 Jun 2022 20:28:03 +0000

Can I Get a Witness?

ptorres — Mon, 23 May 2022 20:06:18 +0000

God has called us to open our hearts, homes and lives to love others and inspire them to know Jesus. And our testimonies are more powerful than we know! We are living examples of God’s goodness and we can share that goodness with others. We shouldn’t keep it to ourselves! In part five of our Open Doors series, be empowered to share your story for God’s glory.

Engaging Culture

ptorres — Mon, 16 May 2022 01:11:27 +0000

It’s not always easy to build relationships with people whose lifestyles aren’t like ours. How do we love our neighbors when all we see are differences? Jesus engaged the culture of His day with love, grace and the truth of the gospel. He invites us to do the same—to live in a way that glorifies God and open our lives to connect with others so we may inspire them to want to know Jesus for themselves. We’re breaking down what that looks like in part four of our Open Doors series!

The Hospitable Heart

ptorres — Mon, 16 May 2022 01:04:21 +0000

Mark 12:30-31 (ESV)

30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”

I Peter 4:8-10 (NIV)
⁸Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. ⁹Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. ¹⁰Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

Hospitality is not about the CONDITION of your HOUSE, but the POSTURE of your HEART

People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL. -Maya Angelou

1 Timothy 3:2 (ESV)
²Therefore an overseer^[^a^] must be above reproach, the husband of one wife,^[^b^] sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,

How do we have a hospitable heart?

Create moments where others feel loved and welcome.

Romans 12:9-13 (ESV)
“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. ¹⁰Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. ¹¹Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. ¹²Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. ¹³Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.”

Hebrews 13:1-2 (ESV)
Let brotherly love continue. 2 Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

How do we have a hospitable heart?

Create moments where others feel loved and welcome.

Create spaces and places of safety.

What does a hospitable heart do?

Yields – to the Holy Spirit, and to the needs of others.

Acts 16:25-28 (NIV)
²⁵About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. ²⁶Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose. ²⁷The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. ²⁸But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!”

What does a hospitable heart do?

Yields – to the Holy Spirit, and to the needs of others.

Brings Healing

Acts 16:29-32 (NIV)
29 The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”31 They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” 32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house.

What does a hospitable heart do?

Yields – to the Holy Spirit, and to the needs of others.

Brings Healing

Brings Fulfillment

Acts 16:33-34 (NIV)
33 At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized. 34 The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole household.

How Do I Neighbor?

ptorres — Mon, 02 May 2022 21:13:34 +0000

God has given us the assignment to love the people around us so they might know the love of God through us. He tells us specifically, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” What does that look like? Join us as we continue exploring one of God’s greatest commands in part two of our Open Doors series!

Who Is My Neighbor?

ptorres — Tue, 26 Apr 2022 18:16:39 +0000

Ways We Drift from the Gospel

ptorres — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 20:49:56 +0000

Our Response to the Gospel

ptorres — Tue, 05 Apr 2022 18:27:31 +0000

Breadth and Beauty of the Gospel

ptorres — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 16:11:41 +0000

Depth and Deliverance of the Gospel

ptorres — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 16:06:49 +0000

Operating in the Supernatural

ptorres — Sun, 13 Mar 2022 18:59:22 +0000

Growing in the Spirit

ptorres — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 19:55:27 +0000

What does God mean when He says that He wants us to bear fruit in our lives? The fruit of the Spirit is the evidence of His presence within us. When we yield to the leadership and counsel of the Holy Spirit, He shapes our character to be like Christ’s. When we make Him the center and source of our lives, the world will experience the fullness of His goodness through us. As long as we are living, fruit is being produced. While the fruit of our flesh and the ways of this world will waste away, the fruit of the Spirit is life-giving and everlasting. Which one is growing in you?

Baptism in the Holy Spirit

ptorres — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 19:49:34 +0000

The Holy Spirit is God WITH us and IN us. Even more than that, the Father wants to empower us by His Spirit to do the same works that Jesus did in the earth! But how? We can only fulfill the mission of God through the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Let us position our hearts to receive the very power and boldness Christ had to minister to a world that so desperately needs Him.

Who is the Holy Spirit?

ptorres — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 16:24:10 +0000

On the night before He went to the cross, Jesus gathered the disciples to share that He was going to prepare a place for them. In their worry and sadness as they realized Jesus was going to die, He assured them that His leaving would be better for them. If Jesus didn’t leave, the friend, our helper, wouldn’t be able to come. That night, He promised that the Holy Spirit was on His way. So, who is the Holy Spirit? We’re so glad you asked. Join us for part one of our series!

One Step

ptorres — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 19:46:08 +0000

As followers of Jesus, every single one of us is called to ministry. God’s mission for our lives is that we would be disciples who make disciples. When we live with this purpose in mind, using all we have for God’s glory, we come fully alive! All that Jesus asks of us is to walk with Him—that wherever we are on our journey, we focus on taking one step forward. He promises to stay by our side along the way!

Finish the Work

ptorres — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 15:26:21 +0000

God is in the Waiting

ptorres — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 15:24:57 +0000

The Faithful Father

ptorres — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 21:21:03 +0000

Did you know God created you just so He could love you? You are fully accepted as you are! He is for you and is faithful to welcome you into His arms no matter what. The Father doesn’t need or require anything from you… Rather than striving and trying to be lovable, He invites you to live from the place of already BEING loved!

The Good Son

ptorres — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 21:28:41 +0000

God loves us so much that He sent His son to restore our relationship with Him. We are all lost children who needed our older brother to reconcile us back to our Father. Jesus paid the debt that we all owed! He is the only way to draw near to God and the full representation of His love for us. We are never too late or too far to come back home to our Good Father through the Good Son.

A Lost Brother

ptorres — Sun, 05 Dec 2021 22:59:23 +0000

In His love, God calls us His children! We don’t have to try to earn His acceptance. The truth is, we never could even if we tried. You are a child of God, created to experience the Father’s love in a personal, intimate way. You are chosen and accepted just as you are… And nothing will ever change that! All you have to do is believe and freely receive. Will you?

A Prodigal Son

ptorres — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 23:41:45 +0000

One of the many beautiful attributes of God is His ability to love unconditionally. There is no guilt-trip, no condemnation, no prerequisite to be accepted. And if you’re feeling lost or like you’ve disappointed Him, know that His arms are always open to welcome you home. Nothing compares to your heavenly Father’s love for you, and all He desires is that you rest in His warm embrace.

Walking in Freedom

ptorres — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 21:17:12 +0000

Jesus came not only to set us free but to help us actually walk in freedom! But stepping into the next level of life with God requires loosening your grip on old ways of thinking and habits that are keeping you stuck. For every one of the enemy’s lies you’ve believed, God has an incredible truth to replace it. And He never calls us to give up something unless He has something better. What do you need to let go of so that you can embrace the new He has for you?

A Mind Made New

ptorres — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 15:14:45 +0000

The enemy’s oldest trick is to get us to believe lies about who God is, who we are, and more. But God has given us spiritual weapons to tear down the lies, those strongholds that keep us stuck in old mindsets and from fully embracing what He has for us. He is calling us to a place of friendship, freedom, and peace. It’s available to all of us, but our minds have to be renewed. No matter where you are, you have a good Father in heaven who is ready to give you His truth. Will you receive it?

Confronting Compromise

ptorres — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 12:39:08 +0000

Do You Want to Be Healed?

ptorres — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 21:18:28 +0000

God has promised every one of us a full life. He invites us to walk in healing and wholeness so we can live in the abundance He always intended. But many of us are stuck in unhealthy, destructive patterns that keep us from experiencing all that He desires for us. God is offering you the opportunity to live unstuck and receive the gift of freedom! The question is: Do you want to be healed?

At the Well Again

ptorres — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 14:53:11 +0000

Extravagant Offerings

ptorres — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:41:22 +0000

When God gives, He gives extravagantly. After all, He loved us so much that gave His only son to save us! He doesn’t withhold anything good from us, and He desires that we walk in the same spirit toward others. We’re called to live generous lives that bring God glory. The idea is that we would all begin to give in such a way that we reflect our Father to the world around us! May our acts of giving be a sign of our hearts toward the Father. Tune in to part five of Extravagant!

Strategic Stewardship

ptorres — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 12:45:19 +0000

Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” God owns everything and, in His kindness, entrusts us to wisely manage the resources He provides. But what exactly does it mean to be a good steward, and where do we start? And could it be that God wants us to handle money well so we can be as generous as He has been to us? In Extravagant part four, we’re giving you practical tools to partner with Him in your finances and, ultimately, be a blessing to others!

Why I Tithe

ptorres — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 16:13:25 +0000

We have a generous God! In giving us His son, Jesus, He gave us His BEST. When we come face-to-face with the selfless love of God and embrace it, we take on His nature and become givers, too. Because when we truly grasp just how much God cherishes us and then open ourselves up to Him, we will want to give as an expression of our adoration. In Extravagant part three, we’re making room for God to transform our hearts, minds and our finances so we can offer Him a worthy response to the extravagant love He has for us!

Mastering the Power of Money

ptorres — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 12:31:39 +0000

Did you know that there are two economies? There is God’s and then there is the world’s. The majority of people, including followers of Christ, have been so conditioned to live based on the world’s economic system that they never experience life in God’s economy. But it’s never too late to start living with His hand on our finances! In part two of Extravagant, find out how to master the power of money and remain under an open heaven of His blessing.

The Generous God

ptorres — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 13:16:28 +0000

There’s something about love that produces generosity. Think about it this way: God so loved the world that He GAVE… When we give, we are called to do so out of the overflow of all that He, the One who breathed life into our lungs, has given to us. When we love others, we’re generous with our time, our affection and, yes, our money—which is the number one competitor against God in our lives. To be people free from the trap of greed, we have to allow the truth of His extravagant generosity toward us to penetrate our hearts. We don’t give to make God love us, because He already does. We give because we love God, and when you love, you also give!

Having a Purpose Driven Family

ptorres — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 13:57:50 +0000

God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have DOMINION …” God established the purpose of family at the start of creation, which can only mean one thing: Yours was never meant to be average! Your family was made to live with vision and do something that matters.

Parenting on Purpose

ptorres — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 13:55:25 +0000

We come from all different types of parenting situations—married, single moms or dads, blended families, and more. Whatever your family dynamic, we can look to the Word of God for the instruction, wisdom and hope we need to raise godly men and women. You, our Victory family, asked some great questions about how to lead your kids and propel them into their purpose, so we came together to help answer them. Check out part five of Family-ish!

Fighting For Your Family

ptorres — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 13:51:46 +0000

Are you praying for someone you love to receive Jesus as Savior? Many of us have felt burdened by the desire for friends and family to know Jesus as Lord. While Christ is the only One who can save, we can play a part in leading people to Him when we love them as He has loved us. How do we love a way that extends the invitation to restoration? Join us for part three of Family-ish!

A Loved One Restored

ptorres — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 13:49:49 +0000

Honor and Cherish

ptorres — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 13:48:41 +0000

Marriage is a blessing, but it can be challenging. Because he hates family, the devil will do anything he can to try to sabotage the beautiful relationship God created! But there is hope in Jesus, because He loves the family and wants to build your family. No matter what your current relationship status may be, we are all called to honor and cherish one another—especially our spouse (or future one). Everyone is unique, and every relationship is unique. How can a marriage thrive for the long haul? Find out in part two of Family-ish!

Spiritual Family

ptorres — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 13:45:36 +0000

Here’s the truth: We have to get our families in order. Why? Because the first ministry God has called us to starts at home. Every family has a story. Not one of them is perfect, but even if you didn’t inherit a good family story, you can start today! Let’s pull a few more chairs up to the table of our lives and create space for spiritual family. From there, we can build more healthy families and show others what it looks like to live, love and grow together as God intended from the very beginning!

Culture Shock

ptorres — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 13:10:52 +0000

We live in a society that tells us our God doesn’t belong in politics, schools, entertainment, and more. This anti-God philosophy is nothing new. From the very beginning, Satan has been trying to convince us that we don’t need God. But even though the world seems to want nothing to do with Him, we’ve been placed here to be the hands and feet of Jesus. This earth is not our home; we’re just passing through. As we do, we are meant to walk in authority, boldness and courage—to put our hope and trust in who God says we are, the way He wants us to live, and the purpose He has for us. It’s time to shock a dying culture with the truth and grace of our Father, to love them back to life!

Conflict

ptorres — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 15:14:42 +0000

From the beginning of time, human beings have had to deal with conflict. There is no one on earth who hasn’t experienced it. None of us are exempt. Conflict isn’t necessarily good or bad, but there is a healthy, godly way to respond. Dr. Sam Chand shares how in part six of our Dear Church series.

Running with the Horses

ptorres — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 13:04:42 +0000

We are daughters and sons of God, the creator of heaven and earth. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, and as His children, He is always with us! Now more than ever, it’s time to stand firm in our faith. Yes, we’ve been stretched on every side—but no matter life’s challenges, if God is for us, no one can be against us. Our Father meets us where we are and gives us all we need to fulfill the purpose we were made for… In part five of Dear Church, Pastor John Jenkins shares a timely word on what it looks like to run with the horses. Tune in!

Your Prayers Are Precious to God

ptorres — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 17:40:58 +0000

Dear Church: Your Prayers Are Precious to God
Pastor James Meeks
July 11, 2021

Revelation 8:3 KJV

And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.

Revelation 5:8 KJV

And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.

The Precious Prayers of the Church:

Satan does not want you to pray.

Satan does not want you to know how valuable your prayers are to God.

1. Revelation 8:1-4

2. Revelation 5:8

1. There are prayers that are answered right away.

Isaiah 38:1-5 KJV

In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, Thus saith the Lord, Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live. Then Hezekiah turned his face toward the wall, and prayed unto the Lord, and said, Remember now, O Lord, I beseech thee, how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore. Then came the word of the Lord to Isaiah, saying, Go, and say to Hezekiah, Thus saith the Lord, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will add unto thy days fifteen years.

Those are the prayers we like.

2. There are prayers that have timing issues.

3. There are prayers where God has something better in store for us.

Social Justice vs. Biblical Justice

ptorres — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 13:03:48 +0000

In the Bible, Jesus emphasizes that the number one way people will fall away from the faith is through deception. It can come in many packages, which is why it’s so important to know what the Word says to keep us anchored. Social justice is something we all tend to think of in a positive light, but we often don’t recognize that it isn’t rooted in God’s moral laws. When we agree with things that sound good but aren’t biblical, entire societies can be deceived. In part three of Dear Church, learn the differences between social and biblical justice and action steps to hold tightly to the truth of God’s Word!

A Life Well Lived

ptorres — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 13:31:02 +0000

What My Father Taught Me

ptorres — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 16:48:35 +0000

The results of fatherlessness are all around us: godlessness, rebellion, identity issues… For thousands of years, people have said that fathers aren’t necessary, but that isn’t the way the Father intended. God is raising up strong men and fathers who will lead their children to Jesus and leave strong legacies. He is healing us, repairing father wounds, so we can change the story in our families. In part one of our series, hear the top three things Pastor Johnson’s father taught him!

A Fence of Space

ptorres — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 18:54:12 +0000

Our God is holy, special and unlike anyone or anything else we’ll ever encounter. In His love, He has called us to live life according to His standards rather than the world’s. God has set up fences of holiness to protect what is set apart for His unique purposes. With that, He has created a fence of space as a model for us in regard to having healthy relationships with others. Find out more in part three of our Fences series!

A Fence of Holiness

ptorres — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 12:59:18 +0000

A Fence of Rest

ptorres — Sun, 30 May 2021 23:21:35 +0000

Thank God for fences! We put them around things that are valuable, like our homes, a children’s playground, art… Even God set up fences to guard what was most important to Him, and He has set the example for us. The first one He ever built was around time. God created for six days and on the seventh day, He rested, and He has extended that same invitation to us. If we want to truly thrive, we must find real rest for our souls. How? Let’s follow God’s way and enjoy the gift of the Sabbath day!

I Am Secure

ptorres — Mon, 17 May 2021 13:26:58 +0000

We are in a war. Our identity is fully secure in Christ, but we’re in an ongoing battle for our hearts. We have an enemy who’s constantly seeking to get us off track, but God has given us the spiritual weapons we need to fight back. Want to know how to overcome every attack of the enemy and live fully secure in Christ? In the final message of our Church Face series, discover how to combat the lies and win the war for your heart!

I Am Free

ptorres — Mon, 10 May 2021 15:03:11 +0000

Just in case no one’s told you lately: You are enough. At some point or another, we’ve all felt like we don’t measure up, like we need to do more to be accepted and loved. The truth is that you’ve already been set free as a child of God! You don’t have to compare or compete with anyone else; you can show up authentically in all the Father has called you to be. He created you uniquely, and it’s time to embrace who you are in Him.

I Am Wanted and Loved

ptorres — Mon, 03 May 2021 12:19:31 +0000

Who, or what, defines you? Many of us have allowed things like possessions, accomplishments, family, and sex to determine our value. But we were created to live from a place of identity and significance rather than spending our whole lives searching for it. God the Father designed and chose you—yes, you—to be here, and He’s the only one who gets to define you. What does He have to say? You were made on purpose for a purpose, and your presence matters. You are wanted and loved!

I am a Child of God

ptorres — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 20:04:46 +0000

We live in a world that tells us we have to prove our worth, but if God’s greatness is going to be emancipated in us, we have to take hold of this truth: We are His beloved children! The reality is that it’s impossible for us to walk in an identity that we don’t fully believe, and we have an enemy who’s actually afraid we’ll discover who we are in Christ. As God’s children, we don’t have to try to earn our value. He created us, which means we’re already loved and accepted—and that will always be enough!

I Am Restored

ptorres — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 13:33:45 +0000

I Am Human

ptorres — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 13:32:52 +0000

Easter 2021

ptorres — Wed, 07 Apr 2021 20:44:50 +0000

Jesus died a brutal death on a cross, sacrificing His life once and for all so that we could have a relationship with God. We know the story doesn’t end there! What a beautiful picture of His love. Celebrate Jesus with us during a special Easter presentation as we remember His life, death, and resurrection!

Hearing God Together

ptorres — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 13:03:14 +0000

We have a God who loves to speak to His people both individually and corporately. He delights in gathering His people together to hear, discuss and live out His Word as one body. To journey into the great future God has for us, we have to be people who recognize and follow the voice of our shepherd. Coming together to hear His Word has incredible power, as we can do much more than we ever could alone. Let’s lock arms and move forward on the mission our God has set before us!

God, Is That You?

ptorres — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 14:04:22 +0000

To walk in the greatness that God wants to free within us, we have to hear His voice and know that He is speaking! How does He speak? Through His Word, prayer, dreams and visions, and words of prophecy given through other people. In today’s message, we’re talking about how to discern whether or not God is actually speaking versus our own wants, the enemy, or someone else’s narrative for our lives. It’s our desire that when you ask the question, “God, is that you?” that you would be able to hear Him clearly in the unique way He created you!

Hearing God Through Prayer

ptorres — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 14:01:55 +0000

We have a God who loves to speak to us, and we were made to hear Him. Communication with God is key, because much of what He says effects what comes next in our lives. So, it’s important that we understand the ways in which He speaks. One of those ways is through prayer. Let’s take time to learn the principles of how to hear His voice in prayer so we can fulfill the purpose He has for us!

You Can Hear God Speak

ptorres — Sun, 07 Mar 2021 21:41:14 +0000

Forgiving Yourself

ptorres — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 17:19:11 +0000

While on the journey to emancipating God’s greatness, letting go of unforgiveness is an essential part of the process. Many of us have not forgiven ourselves for our pasts, but holding onto sins, failures, and mistakes only hinders us from living in the fullness of God’s destiny. The reality is: We don’t have to stay stuck. It’s time to toss the bag, to let go the weight we’ve been carrying, and walk in the freedom of His love!

Forgiving God

ptorres — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 14:42:02 +0000

We have a God who wants to set us free so we can live the life Jesus purchased for us to the fullest! We also have an enemy who sets traps of offense to keep us bound. One of the main areas he attempts to cause offense is actually between us and God. We don’t talk about it often in church, but we’re going there. Why? Because God has placed His greatness in us, and it can only be emancipated when we open our hearts to Him.

Forgiving Others

ptorres — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 14:23:18 +0000

Value People

ptorres — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 17:03:45 +0000

We’re living in a time when many of us have been elevating ourselves and our points-of-view rather than valuing others. As followers of Jesus, we are to meant to be salt and light, bringing the flavor and beauty of Christ to a lost and dying world. How exactly? We have to be intentional about valuing others above ourselves. When we begin to see people as the Father does and remember the grace He’s shown us, we can impact the world for His glory—fulfilling the very purpose we were given from the start.

A Community of Greatness

ptorres — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 15:06:26 +0000

The journey of emancipating greatness was never meant to be a solo one. We were created for community! We need one another now more than ever, and living in isolation isn’t a part of God’s plan. We are better together, called to use our gifts to help one another along the way. Let’s link up!

Preparing for Greatness

ptorres — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 17:28:04 +0000

God is leading us forward into the emancipation of the greatness He’s placed inside of each and every one us. It has always been His plan to rule the earth in partnership with His people, for us to shine His light in the world and make disciples using the gifts and dreams He’s given us. For that to happen, for us to live full of joy, satisfaction and significance, we have to get prepared—to begin walking in health so that we may reproduce greatness in others! Are you ready to dig a little deeper?

Redefining Greatness

ptorres — Tue, 19 Jan 2021 19:49:24 +0000

You Were Made for Something Great

ptorres — Mon, 11 Jan 2021 21:12:01 +0000

You were made for something great. Yes, YOU. God is leading us on a new journey as we launch into 2021, and we want to invite you to come along with us! God created you in His own image to reflect His glory in the earth. Before He knit you together in your mother’s womb, He had God-sized plans for your life. We’re rediscovering what it means to freely and boldly live in the unique purpose He placed on us from the very beginning. Something great is calling … will you answer?

The Stand

ptorres — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 15:16:52 +0000

Power of Joy

ptorres — Mon, 14 Dec 2020 15:01:50 +0000

Joy is not a feeling. It isn’t something that’s based on our finances, health, or any other present circumstances; it’s a fruit of the Holy Spirit. Because Christ came, even in the midst of difficult times like the one we’re currently living in, we’re able to experience the joy of His presence forever! The question is: how do we activate it? Find out in part three of our current series.

Engaging the Silence

ptorres — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 14:51:29 +0000

Have you ever been in a season when life wasn’t turning out the way you thought and God seemed silent—like He was nowhere to be found? It’s easy to have faith when everything is going well, but how do we trust God when we’re waiting for the fulfillment of His promises? We remember who God is and all He’s done. We say “yes” to the opportunity to choose faith, to trust that the same God who was with us in the past is in our midst even now and will be with us in the future. He’s the same yesterday, today and forever. Don’t let your heart forget that He is always good!

Prophets and Promises

ptorres — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 18:16:36 +0000

Many Christians set aside the four weeks leading up to Christmas to celebrate Advent. It’s a time of remembrance and expectant waiting for the coming of Jesus Christ. During this season, we are reminded that in the midst of what’s happening in our world, in the good and not-so-good, we can rest knowing that hope is not lost. We can experience the fullness of peace and joy as we reflect on the fulfillment of prophecy—that the promised Messiah came and is coming again! He is Immanuel, God with us, and He’s still at work in all things!