The Refreshing Power of the Word of God | Powered by the Word

For America's 250th birthday, Greg Lorie For America's 250th birthday, Greg Lorie recommends a great film about the man recommends a great film about the man recommends a great film about the man behind the spiritual [music] awakening behind the spiritual [music] awakening behind the spiritual [music] awakening of our nation. Just as surely as George of our nation. Just as surely as George of our nation. Just as surely as George Washington is our founding father, Washington is our founding father, Washington is our founding father, George Whitfield is our spiritual George Whitfield is our spiritual George Whitfield is our spiritual founding [music] father. Two Georgees founding [music] father. Two Georgees founding [music] father. Two Georgees played a role in founding the United played a role in founding the United played a role in founding the United States. So find out more about George States. So find out more about George States. So find out more about George Whitfield [music] Whitfield [music] Whitfield [music] in this film that's called A Great in this film that's called A Great in this film that's called A Great Awakening and we'll send it to you for Awakening and we'll send it to you for Awakening and we'll send it to you for [music] your gift of any size. available [music] your gift of any size. available [music] your gift of any size. available on DVD at harvest.org. >> A growing believer will delight in and >> A growing believer will delight in and love the word of God. You'll love it love the word of God. You'll love it love the word of God. You'll love it because as you read, study, memorize, because as you read, study, memorize, because as you read, study, memorize, and dig [music] into the word of God, it and dig [music] into the word of God, it and dig [music] into the word of God, it will refresh you. God gave us his word will refresh you. God gave us his word will refresh you. God gave us his word as spiritual nourishment. It feeds our as spiritual nourishment. It feeds our as spiritual nourishment. It feeds our [music] souls. And Pastor Greg Lorie [music] souls. And Pastor Greg Lorie [music] souls. And Pastor Greg Lorie says it's good to have a hearty meal. says it's good to have a hearty meal. says it's good to have a hearty meal. [music] The Bible restores you. The [music] The Bible restores you. The [music] The Bible restores you. The Bible refreshes you. The Bible Bible refreshes you. The Bible Bible refreshes you. The Bible transforms you. transforms you. transforms you. >> This is [music] the day when the lost >> This is [music] the day when the lost >> This is [music] the day when the lost are found. This is the day are found. This is the day are found. This is the day he he he grad.

grad. grad. [music] >> Ever been so hungry [music] you felt >> Ever been so hungry [music] you felt weak? Not just hunger pangs, not just in weak? Not just hunger pangs, not just in weak? Not just hunger pangs, not just in a hangry mood. You actually felt a hangry mood. You actually felt a hangry mood. You actually felt sluggish [music] and powerless. Food is sluggish [music] and powerless. Food is sluggish [music] and powerless. Food is at the top of your mind. Well, we can at the top of your mind. Well, we can at the top of your mind. Well, we can start to feel [music] weak spiritually, start to feel [music] weak spiritually, start to feel [music] weak spiritually, but so many times our spiritual food but so many times our spiritual food but so many times our spiritual food isn't at the top of [music] our minds. isn't at the top of [music] our minds. isn't at the top of [music] our minds. Today on a new beginning, Pastor Greg Today on a new beginning, Pastor Greg Today on a new beginning, Pastor Greg Lori points out just what God's word Lori points out just what God's word Lori points out just what God's word does for the weary traveler on the road does for the weary traveler on the road does for the weary traveler on the road [music] of life. We'll see. It gives us [music] of life. We'll see. It gives us [music] of life. We'll see. It gives us actual power for living, and we actual power for living, and we actual power for living, and we shouldn't [music] deprive ourselves. the refreshing power of the word of God. the refreshing power of the word of God. Listen, if you want to be a growing Listen, if you want to be a growing Listen, if you want to be a growing Christian, if you want to be a Christian, if you want to be a Christian, if you want to be a successful Christian, if you want to be successful Christian, if you want to be successful Christian, if you want to be a believer that brings forth spiritual a believer that brings forth spiritual a believer that brings forth spiritual fruit as Jesus says he wants us to bring fruit as Jesus says he wants us to bring fruit as Jesus says he wants us to bring forth, then you need to be a forth, then you need to be a forth, then you need to be a Biblestudying Biblestudying Biblestudying Christian. And as a believer, we are Christian. And as a believer, we are Christian. And as a believer, we are either progressing or we're regressing.

either progressing or we're regressing. either progressing or we're regressing. We're either going forward or we're We're either going forward or we're We're either going forward or we're going backwards. And the moment we stop going backwards. And the moment we stop going backwards. And the moment we stop the forward momentum is when we begin the forward momentum is when we begin the forward momentum is when we begin the backward regression. I read not long the backward regression. I read not long the backward regression. I read not long ago about a coach, a guy who trains ago about a coach, a guy who trains ago about a coach, a guy who trains people uh for a living and most of his people uh for a living and most of his people uh for a living and most of his clients were quite overweight, some 60, clients were quite overweight, some 60, clients were quite overweight, some 60, 70 lbs overweight. This guy, this 70 lbs overweight. This guy, this 70 lbs overweight. This guy, this trainer was in perfect shape. washboard trainer was in perfect shape. washboard trainer was in perfect shape. washboard abs, ate the right foods, loved to abs, ate the right foods, loved to abs, ate the right foods, loved to exercise, and he really couldn't relate exercise, and he really couldn't relate exercise, and he really couldn't relate to what his clients were going through. to what his clients were going through. to what his clients were going through. So, this guy decided to intentionally So, this guy decided to intentionally So, this guy decided to intentionally put on 70 lbs to see what it was like. put on 70 lbs to see what it was like. put on 70 lbs to see what it was like. And so, he started by changing his diet And so, he started by changing his diet And so, he started by changing his diet from the foods he used to eat to from the foods he used to eat to from the foods he used to eat to fattening foods. For instance, for fattening foods. For instance, for fattening foods. For instance, for breakfast, he had Captain Crunch cereal breakfast, he had Captain Crunch cereal breakfast, he had Captain Crunch cereal and then he would have a snack. It would and then he would have a snack. It would and then he would have a snack. It would be banana bread and he would have be banana bread and he would have be banana bread and he would have chicken Alfredo pasta for dinner and chicken Alfredo pasta for dinner and chicken Alfredo pasta for dinner and lots of corn dogs and donuts in between. lots of corn dogs and donuts in between. lots of corn dogs and donuts in between. By the way, this diet sounds really good By the way, this diet sounds really good By the way, this diet sounds really good to me except the Captain Crunch cereal.

to me except the Captain Crunch cereal. to me except the Captain Crunch cereal. I could live without that. But all the I could live without that. But all the I could live without that. But all the rest, this sounds amazing. Well, it was rest, this sounds amazing. Well, it was rest, this sounds amazing. Well, it was exhilarating to him because at first exhilarating to him because at first exhilarating to him because at first there was no difference in his body. He there was no difference in his body. He there was no difference in his body. He still looked good. But then he noticed still looked good. But then he noticed still looked good. But then he noticed the first thing to go with the abs. And the first thing to go with the abs. And the first thing to go with the abs. And then he started getting flabby. Then he then he started getting flabby. Then he then he started getting flabby. Then he found that his blood pressure was going found that his blood pressure was going found that his blood pressure was going up. He was tired all the time. He found up. He was tired all the time. He found up. He was tired all the time. He found himself lethargic and depressed. And to himself lethargic and depressed. And to himself lethargic and depressed. And to me, this is the picture of what it's me, this is the picture of what it's me, this is the picture of what it's like when we start going in the wrong like when we start going in the wrong like when we start going in the wrong direction spiritually. Instead of eating direction spiritually. Instead of eating direction spiritually. Instead of eating the nutritious message of God's word, we the nutritious message of God's word, we the nutritious message of God's word, we fill our lives with spiritual junk food. fill our lives with spiritual junk food. fill our lives with spiritual junk food. So when that happens, you need a So when that happens, you need a So when that happens, you need a restart. You need a reboot. you need a restart. You need a reboot. you need a restart. You need a reboot. you need a refresh. And I want to talk to you about refresh. And I want to talk to you about refresh. And I want to talk to you about the refreshing power of the word of God. the refreshing power of the word of God. the refreshing power of the word of God. Because the reality is as believers, we Because the reality is as believers, we Because the reality is as believers, we all have those moments when we stumble, all have those moments when we stumble, all have those moments when we stumble, when we trip up, when we make that wrong when we trip up, when we make that wrong when we trip up, when we make that wrong decision, we think that wrong thought decision, we think that wrong thought decision, we think that wrong thought and we need to repent. We need to and we need to repent. We need to and we need to repent. We need to reboot. Uh we need to be revived and reboot. Uh we need to be revived and reboot. Uh we need to be revived and refreshed. And that's what we're going refreshed. And that's what we're going refreshed. And that's what we're going to be focusing on together because you to be focusing on together because you to be focusing on together because you want to build your life as a Christian want to build your life as a Christian want to build your life as a Christian on Christ and his word. At the end of on Christ and his word. At the end of on Christ and his word. At the end of the sermon on the mount, Jesus gave this the sermon on the mount, Jesus gave this the sermon on the mount, Jesus gave this summary statement in Matthew 7. Whoever summary statement in Matthew 7. Whoever summary statement in Matthew 7. Whoever hears these words of mine and puts them hears these words of mine and puts them hears these words of mine and puts them into practice, he is a wise man who

into practice, he is a wise man who into practice, he is a wise man who builds his house on the rock. and the builds his house on the rock. and the builds his house on the rock. and the rain came down and the streams rose and rain came down and the streams rose and rain came down and the streams rose and the winds blew and beat against the the winds blew and beat against the the winds blew and beat against the house but it did not fall because his house but it did not fall because his house but it did not fall because his foundation was on the rock. But then foundation was on the rock. But then foundation was on the rock. But then Christ goes on to say, "Whoever hears Christ goes on to say, "Whoever hears Christ goes on to say, "Whoever hears these sayings of mine and does not put these sayings of mine and does not put these sayings of mine and does not put them into practice, he is a foolish man them into practice, he is a foolish man them into practice, he is a foolish man who builds his house on the sand." And who builds his house on the sand." And who builds his house on the sand." And the rain came down and the streams rose the rain came down and the streams rose the rain came down and the streams rose and it fell with a great crash. Look, and it fell with a great crash. Look, and it fell with a great crash. Look, every life is going to be tested. Every every life is going to be tested. Every every life is going to be tested. Every one of us is going to face storms in one of us is going to face storms in one of us is going to face storms in life as followers of Jesus. So make sure life as followers of Jesus. So make sure life as followers of Jesus. So make sure you're built on the right foundation, you're built on the right foundation, you're built on the right foundation, which is a relationship with Jesus which is a relationship with Jesus which is a relationship with Jesus himself and of course on God's word. himself and of course on God's word. himself and of course on God's word. Don't build your Christian experience on Don't build your Christian experience on Don't build your Christian experience on experience. Don't build your faith on experience. Don't build your faith on experience. Don't build your faith on your fickle emotions. Build your life on your fickle emotions. Build your life on your fickle emotions. Build your life on Christ and his word. Because as you Christ and his word. Because as you Christ and his word. Because as you read, study, memorize, and dig into the read, study, memorize, and dig into the read, study, memorize, and dig into the word of God, it will refresh you. Psalm word of God, it will refresh you. Psalm word of God, it will refresh you. Psalm 19:7 says, "The law of the Lord is 19:7 says, "The law of the Lord is 19:7 says, "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul. The perfect, converting the soul. The perfect, converting the soul. The testimony of the Lord is sure, making testimony of the Lord is sure, making testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple." The word that the wise the simple." The word that the wise the simple." The word that the psalmist uses, therefore, converts means psalmist uses, therefore, converts means psalmist uses, therefore, converts means to revive, to restore, and to transform.

to revive, to restore, and to transform. to revive, to restore, and to transform. Now, when we say the law of the Lord, Now, when we say the law of the Lord, Now, when we say the law of the Lord, that could just as easily be translated that could just as easily be translated that could just as easily be translated the word of the Lord or simply the the word of the Lord or simply the the word of the Lord or simply the Bible. In other words, the Bible Bible. In other words, the Bible Bible. In other words, the Bible restores you, the Bible refreshes you, restores you, the Bible refreshes you, restores you, the Bible refreshes you, the Bible transforms you. I can think of the Bible transforms you. I can think of the Bible transforms you. I can think of so many times on my life where my mind so many times on my life where my mind so many times on my life where my mind was going in the wrong direction. Have was going in the wrong direction. Have was going in the wrong direction. Have you ever been gripped by fear, worry, or you ever been gripped by fear, worry, or you ever been gripped by fear, worry, or anxiety and found by just quoting the anxiety and found by just quoting the anxiety and found by just quoting the right scripture that it sort of writed right scripture that it sort of writed right scripture that it sort of writed you? Or when you're dealing with pain or you? Or when you're dealing with pain or you? Or when you're dealing with pain or with grief? You know, we just marked 13 with grief? You know, we just marked 13 with grief? You know, we just marked 13 years since our son Christopher went to years since our son Christopher went to years since our son Christopher went to be with the Lord. And since that has be with the Lord. And since that has be with the Lord. And since that has happened, I've spoken to countless happened, I've spoken to countless happened, I've spoken to countless families who've lost loved ones, families who've lost loved ones, families who've lost loved ones, especially children. And I've talked to especially children. And I've talked to especially children. And I've talked to them about grief. Uh grief is powerful them about grief. Uh grief is powerful them about grief. Uh grief is powerful and it can overwhelm you. And there were and it can overwhelm you. And there were and it can overwhelm you. And there were times when our grief was so powerful and times when our grief was so powerful and times when our grief was so powerful and so overwhelming uh we didn't know if we so overwhelming uh we didn't know if we so overwhelming uh we didn't know if we could go on. Uh but the thing is is could go on. Uh but the thing is is could go on. Uh but the thing is is grief has its place. It's the process of grief has its place. It's the process of grief has its place. It's the process of healing. It's a process of processing healing. It's a process of processing healing. It's a process of processing the thing that has happened to you. I the thing that has happened to you. I the thing that has happened to you. I compare it to being out on the ocean.

compare it to being out on the ocean. compare it to being out on the ocean. Maybe we're on our surfboards or our Maybe we're on our surfboards or our Maybe we're on our surfboards or our standup paddle boards or maybe we're on standup paddle boards or maybe we're on standup paddle boards or maybe we're on our boogie boards, right? Have you ever our boogie boards, right? Have you ever our boogie boards, right? Have you ever gone over the falls? Like going over the gone over the falls? Like going over the gone over the falls? Like going over the front of a wave and you're in white front of a wave and you're in white front of a wave and you're in white water. It's like you're in a washing water. It's like you're in a washing water. It's like you're in a washing machine and you don't know which way is machine and you don't know which way is machine and you don't know which way is up. So, if you have a boogie board or up. So, if you have a boogie board or up. So, if you have a boogie board or some surfboard and a leash attached to some surfboard and a leash attached to some surfboard and a leash attached to your ankle, you know, one thing is your ankle, you know, one thing is your ankle, you know, one thing is certain, that boogie board, that certain, that boogie board, that certain, that boogie board, that flotation device will always go to the flotation device will always go to the flotation device will always go to the surface. Cuz people have become surface. Cuz people have become surface. Cuz people have become disoriented when they've gone over the disoriented when they've gone over the disoriented when they've gone over the falls, especially if the wave is big and falls, especially if the wave is big and falls, especially if the wave is big and they don't know which way is up. And they don't know which way is up. And they don't know which way is up. And instead of going up, they go down. So, instead of going up, they go down. So, instead of going up, they go down. So, here's what you do. If you've got that here's what you do. If you've got that here's what you do. If you've got that leash, grab the leash and go in the leash, grab the leash and go in the leash, grab the leash and go in the direction of your surfboard or your direction of your surfboard or your direction of your surfboard or your boogie board and get your head above the boogie board and get your head above the boogie board and get your head above the water and get a gulp of air cuz a new water and get a gulp of air cuz a new water and get a gulp of air cuz a new set of waves might be coming. That's set of waves might be coming. That's set of waves might be coming. That's grief. It It just turns you upside down. grief. It It just turns you upside down. grief. It It just turns you upside down. You don't know what to think. You don't You don't know what to think. You don't You don't know what to think. You don't know what's going on. Your emotions are know what's going on. Your emotions are know what's going on. Your emotions are running a muck. Grab the leash. What is running a muck. Grab the leash. What is running a muck. Grab the leash. What is the leash? The leash is the word of God.

the leash? The leash is the word of God. the leash? The leash is the word of God. and it pulls me to the surface and I can and it pulls me to the surface and I can and it pulls me to the surface and I can get my eyes on Jesus for a moment and it get my eyes on Jesus for a moment and it get my eyes on Jesus for a moment and it can get me sorted out and back in can get me sorted out and back in can get me sorted out and back in alignment with God again. How important alignment with God again. How important alignment with God again. How important the word of God is in our life. The word the word of God is in our life. The word the word of God is in our life. The word of God restores us. It refreshes us. It of God restores us. It refreshes us. It of God restores us. It refreshes us. It transforms us. Listen to this. Success transforms us. Listen to this. Success transforms us. Listen to this. Success or failure in the Christian life depends or failure in the Christian life depends or failure in the Christian life depends on how much of God's word you get into on how much of God's word you get into on how much of God's word you get into your life on a regular basis and how your life on a regular basis and how your life on a regular basis and how obedient you are to it. Let me repeat obedient you are to it. Let me repeat obedient you are to it. Let me repeat that for emphasis. Success or failure in that for emphasis. Success or failure in that for emphasis. Success or failure in the Christian life depends on how much the Christian life depends on how much the Christian life depends on how much of God's word you get into your life on of God's word you get into your life on of God's word you get into your life on a regular basis and how obedient you are a regular basis and how obedient you are a regular basis and how obedient you are to it. God told his people back in the to it. God told his people back in the to it. God told his people back in the book of Joshua, if they want to succeed book of Joshua, if they want to succeed book of Joshua, if they want to succeed spiritually, they needed to constantly spiritually, they needed to constantly spiritually, they needed to constantly be looking at his word. Joshua 1:8, it be looking at his word. Joshua 1:8, it be looking at his word. Joshua 1:8, it said, "This book of the law or the word said, "This book of the law or the word said, "This book of the law or the word of God shall not depart from your mouth.

of God shall not depart from your mouth. of God shall not depart from your mouth. Meditate in it day and night that you Meditate in it day and night that you Meditate in it day and night that you may observe to do according to all that may observe to do according to all that may observe to do according to all that is written in it." And if you do this, is written in it." And if you do this, is written in it." And if you do this, your way will be prosperous and you will your way will be prosperous and you will your way will be prosperous and you will have good success. Meditate in the word have good success. Meditate in the word have good success. Meditate in the word of God. What does it mean to meditate? of God. What does it mean to meditate? of God. What does it mean to meditate? Well, in the Bible, it means to Well, in the Bible, it means to Well, in the Bible, it means to contemplate. contemplate. contemplate. It's the idea is given in scripture of It's the idea is given in scripture of It's the idea is given in scripture of chewing one's food carefully. In Eastern chewing one's food carefully. In Eastern chewing one's food carefully. In Eastern meditation, one empties their mind. In meditation, one empties their mind. In meditation, one empties their mind. In biblical meditation, one fills their biblical meditation, one fills their biblical meditation, one fills their mind with the word of God. And as you mind with the word of God. And as you mind with the word of God. And as you memorize and know and understand memorize and know and understand memorize and know and understand scripture, it'll be a weapon to use as scripture, it'll be a weapon to use as scripture, it'll be a weapon to use as you share your faith and a weapon to you share your faith and a weapon to you share your faith and a weapon to defend yourself when you're being defend yourself when you're being defend yourself when you're being attacked. Remember the first temptation attacked. Remember the first temptation attacked. Remember the first temptation that happened back in the Garden of Eden that happened back in the Garden of Eden that happened back in the Garden of Eden is when Satan effectively came to Adam is when Satan effectively came to Adam is when Satan effectively came to Adam and Eve and challenged them to doubt the and Eve and challenged them to doubt the and Eve and challenged them to doubt the word of God. He said, "Did God really word of God. He said, "Did God really word of God. He said, "Did God really say what you think he said? Has God say what you think he said? Has God say what you think he said? Has God really said you cannot eat of all of the really said you cannot eat of all of the really said you cannot eat of all of the trees in the garden? And this is one of trees in the garden? And this is one of trees in the garden? And this is one of the first things that happens to a the first things that happens to a the first things that happens to a person when they become a Christian.

person when they become a Christian. person when they become a Christian. They have doubt about what they believe. They have doubt about what they believe. They have doubt about what they believe. And Jesus told us how to handle this and And Jesus told us how to handle this and And Jesus told us how to handle this and showed us really when he was tempted in showed us really when he was tempted in showed us really when he was tempted in the wilderness. Remember, three waves of the wilderness. Remember, three waves of the wilderness. Remember, three waves of temptation came to Christ from Lucifer. temptation came to Christ from Lucifer. temptation came to Christ from Lucifer. And in each instance, Jesus says, "It is And in each instance, Jesus says, "It is And in each instance, Jesus says, "It is written. It is written." And he came written. It is written." And he came written. It is written." And he came back to the word of God, which the Bible back to the word of God, which the Bible back to the word of God, which the Bible describes as the sword of the spirit. describes as the sword of the spirit. describes as the sword of the spirit. Listen, a growing believer will delight Listen, a growing believer will delight Listen, a growing believer will delight in and love the word of God. You'll love in and love the word of God. You'll love in and love the word of God. You'll love it. It's not like you'll dread reading it. It's not like you'll dread reading it. It's not like you'll dread reading it. You look forward to reading it. it. You look forward to reading it. it. You look forward to reading it. Psalm 1 describing the happy man says, Psalm 1 describing the happy man says, Psalm 1 describing the happy man says, "Happy is the man that doesn't walk in "Happy is the man that doesn't walk in "Happy is the man that doesn't walk in the counsel of the ungodly or stand in the counsel of the ungodly or stand in the counsel of the ungodly or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of the way of sinners or sit in the seat of the way of sinners or sit in the seat of the scornful, but his delight is in the the scornful, but his delight is in the the scornful, but his delight is in the word of the Lord, and in it does he word of the Lord, and in it does he word of the Lord, and in it does he meditate day and night." The psalmist meditate day and night." The psalmist meditate day and night." The psalmist said in Psalm 119, "How I love your said in Psalm 119, "How I love your said in Psalm 119, "How I love your commandments, Lord. They give my life commandments, Lord. They give my life commandments, Lord. They give my life back to me because your unfailing love back to me because your unfailing love back to me because your unfailing love and your words are true.

and your words are true. and your words are true. [music] Pastor Greg Lori will have the [music] Pastor Greg Lori will have the [music] Pastor Greg Lori will have the second half of his message in just a second half of his message in just a second half of his message in just a moment. We hear [music] from listeners moment. We hear [music] from listeners moment. We hear [music] from listeners all over the country and from countries all over the country and from countries all over the country and from countries all over the world. all over the world. all over the world. >> I just want to say hi Pastor Greg. I am >> I just want to say hi Pastor Greg. I am >> I just want to say hi Pastor Greg. I am writing to you from Dulag Christian writing to you from Dulag Christian writing to you from Dulag Christian Fellowship, a small but growing church Fellowship, a small but growing church Fellowship, a small but growing church here in Dulag, Philippines. By God's here in Dulag, Philippines. By God's here in Dulag, Philippines. By God's grace, the Lord [music] is growing grace, the Lord [music] is growing grace, the Lord [music] is growing people in our town. We want to uh people in our town. We want to uh people in our town. We want to uh sincerely thank you for your faithful sincerely thank you for your faithful sincerely thank you for your faithful ministry [music] through Harvest ministry [music] through Harvest ministry [music] through Harvest Christian Fellowship and a new beginning Christian Fellowship and a new beginning Christian Fellowship and a new beginning which has greatly influenced and which has greatly influenced and which has greatly influenced and encourage us here. Many of our Bible encourage us here. Many of our Bible encourage us here. Many of our Bible studies and Sunday messages are inspired studies and Sunday messages are inspired studies and Sunday messages are inspired by your teaching style. We often adopt by your teaching style. We often adopt by your teaching style. We often adopt your outlines into Tagalogi, your outlines into Tagalogi, your outlines into Tagalogi, our local dialects, so that people in our local dialects, so that people in our local dialects, so that people in our community can easily understand the our community can easily understand the our community can easily understand the gospel. Through your teachings, many gospel. Through your teachings, many gospel. Through your teachings, many here in Dulag are being strengthened and here in Dulag are being strengthened and here in Dulag are being strengthened and lives are being changed. We are praying lives are being changed. We are praying lives are being changed. We are praying for you, your family, and your team that for you, your family, and your team that for you, your family, and your team that the Lord will continue to use you the Lord will continue to use you the Lord will continue to use you powerfully for his glory. Salomat, powerfully for his glory. Salomat, powerfully for his glory. Salomat, Pastor Greg, for your faithfulness in Pastor Greg, for your faithfulness in Pastor Greg, for your faithfulness in preaching God's word.

preaching God's word. preaching God's word. >> What an encouragement [music] to hear >> What an encouragement [music] to hear >> What an encouragement [music] to hear how these messages are reaching all the how these messages are reaching all the how these messages are reaching all the way to the Philippines. Do you [music] way to the Philippines. Do you [music] way to the Philippines. Do you [music] have a story to tell? If so, would you have a story to tell? If so, would you have a story to tell? If so, would you call and share it with us? Call [music] call and share it with us? Call [music] call and share it with us? Call [music] 8668711144. Well, today Pastor Greg is presenting Well, today Pastor Greg is presenting his message on the importance of his message on the importance of his message on the importance of scripture called the refreshing power of scripture called the refreshing power of scripture called the refreshing power of the word of God. How do you know the the word of God. How do you know the the word of God. How do you know the Bible is the word of God? Sometimes Bible is the word of God? Sometimes Bible is the word of God? Sometimes we'll doubt it. Can I believe the Bible? we'll doubt it. Can I believe the Bible? we'll doubt it. Can I believe the Bible? Can I be certain that this really is Can I be certain that this really is Can I be certain that this really is God's word to me? So, if you have a God's word to me? So, if you have a God's word to me? So, if you have a Bible, why don't you just grab it right Bible, why don't you just grab it right Bible, why don't you just grab it right now and hold on to it? Maybe it's an app now and hold on to it? Maybe it's an app now and hold on to it? Maybe it's an app on your tablet or your phone, but I want on your tablet or your phone, but I want on your tablet or your phone, but I want you to think about this book that we you to think about this book that we you to think about this book that we call the Bible. This is God's message to call the Bible. This is God's message to call the Bible. This is God's message to us. Technically speaking, the Bible is us. Technically speaking, the Bible is us. Technically speaking, the Bible is not one book, but it's actually 66 not one book, but it's actually 66 not one book, but it's actually 66 different books written over a 1500year different books written over a 1500year different books written over a 1500year span of time. Its words were written by span of time. Its words were written by span of time. Its words were written by authors, 40 of them, uh, all told, uh, authors, 40 of them, uh, all told, uh, authors, 40 of them, uh, all told, uh, from every walk of life, kings, from every walk of life, kings, from every walk of life, kings, peasants, philosophers, fishermen, peasants, philosophers, fishermen, peasants, philosophers, fishermen, statesmen, and scholars. Yet all of the statesmen, and scholars. Yet all of the statesmen, and scholars. Yet all of the authors of the Bible write about one authors of the Bible write about one authors of the Bible write about one primary theme, and that theme is God's primary theme, and that theme is God's primary theme, and that theme is God's redemption of mankind. And each one of redemption of mankind. And each one of redemption of mankind. And each one of these individuals was inspired by God to

these individuals was inspired by God to these individuals was inspired by God to write these words. 2 Peter 1:20 says, write these words. 2 Peter 1:20 says, write these words. 2 Peter 1:20 says, "You must understand, no prophecy in "You must understand, no prophecy in "You must understand, no prophecy in scripture came about by the prophets scripture came about by the prophets scripture came about by the prophets themselves as they wanted to prophesy, themselves as they wanted to prophesy, themselves as they wanted to prophesy, but it was the Holy Spirit who moved the but it was the Holy Spirit who moved the but it was the Holy Spirit who moved the prophets to speak from God." How do I prophets to speak from God." How do I prophets to speak from God." How do I know the Bible is the word of God? know the Bible is the word of God? know the Bible is the word of God? Here's one point. I know the Bible is Here's one point. I know the Bible is Here's one point. I know the Bible is the word of God because it gave me the the word of God because it gave me the the word of God because it gave me the experience it claimed it would give me. experience it claimed it would give me. experience it claimed it would give me. Now, don't uh say, "Well, Greg, you Now, don't uh say, "Well, Greg, you Now, don't uh say, "Well, Greg, you shouldn't build your life in shouldn't build your life in shouldn't build your life in experience." This is just one of many experience." This is just one of many experience." This is just one of many points as to why I believe the Bible is points as to why I believe the Bible is points as to why I believe the Bible is the word of God. But I believe it the word of God. But I believe it the word of God. But I believe it because everything the Bible promised to because everything the Bible promised to because everything the Bible promised to me was true. Everything the Bible says me was true. Everything the Bible says me was true. Everything the Bible says to me, I have found to be true. For to me, I have found to be true. For to me, I have found to be true. For instance, the Bible says God would instance, the Bible says God would instance, the Bible says God would forgive me of my sin. 1 John 19 says, forgive me of my sin. 1 John 19 says, forgive me of my sin. 1 John 19 says, "If I will confess my sin, he's faithful "If I will confess my sin, he's faithful "If I will confess my sin, he's faithful and just to forgive me my sins and and just to forgive me my sins and and just to forgive me my sins and cleanse me from all unrighteousness." So cleanse me from all unrighteousness." So cleanse me from all unrighteousness." So I read that verse and I said, "Lord, I read that verse and I said, "Lord, I read that verse and I said, "Lord, cleanse me of my sin." One of the first cleanse me of my sin." One of the first cleanse me of my sin." One of the first things I remember experiencing as a things I remember experiencing as a things I remember experiencing as a brand new Christian was a sensation of brand new Christian was a sensation of brand new Christian was a sensation of having a massive weight removed from me.

having a massive weight removed from me. having a massive weight removed from me. Now, I didn't know what I'd just done. I Now, I didn't know what I'd just done. I Now, I didn't know what I'd just done. I prayed and asked Jesus into my life. I prayed and asked Jesus into my life. I prayed and asked Jesus into my life. I hadn't read that I should cast all of my hadn't read that I should cast all of my hadn't read that I should cast all of my care upon him, for he cared for me. I care upon him, for he cared for me. I care upon him, for he cared for me. I hadn't read any verses yet, but I hadn't read any verses yet, but I hadn't read any verses yet, but I remember feeling this weight lifted off remember feeling this weight lifted off remember feeling this weight lifted off of me. That was God forgiving me of my of me. That was God forgiving me of my of me. That was God forgiving me of my sins. The Bible says to me, "If any man sins. The Bible says to me, "If any man sins. The Bible says to me, "If any man be in Christ, he is an altogether be in Christ, he is an altogether be in Christ, he is an altogether different kind of person. The old things different kind of person. The old things different kind of person. The old things have passed away. Behold, everything have passed away. Behold, everything have passed away. Behold, everything becomes fresh and new." I became a becomes fresh and new." I became a becomes fresh and new." I became a different person after I gave my life to different person after I gave my life to different person after I gave my life to Christ. I saw that change inside of me Christ. I saw that change inside of me Christ. I saw that change inside of me and I knew it was real. I tried to be a and I knew it was real. I tried to be a and I knew it was real. I tried to be a better person. I wanted to be a more better person. I wanted to be a more better person. I wanted to be a more caring person. I wanted to be different caring person. I wanted to be different caring person. I wanted to be different than I was. But I couldn't change than I was. But I couldn't change than I was. But I couldn't change myself. And suddenly with Christ living myself. And suddenly with Christ living myself. And suddenly with Christ living in me and reading the word of God, I saw in me and reading the word of God, I saw in me and reading the word of God, I saw that these things happened for me as the that these things happened for me as the that these things happened for me as the Bible said they would. I read in the Bible said they would. I read in the Bible said they would. I read in the Bible that God could give to me a peace Bible that God could give to me a peace Bible that God could give to me a peace that passes all human understanding. that passes all human understanding. that passes all human understanding. Because in Philippians we read, "Don't Because in Philippians we read, "Don't Because in Philippians we read, "Don't worry about anything. Pray about worry about anything. Pray about worry about anything. Pray about everything. And the peace of God that everything. And the peace of God that everything. And the peace of God that passes all human understanding will keep passes all human understanding will keep passes all human understanding will keep your heart and mind in Christ Jesus."

your heart and mind in Christ Jesus." your heart and mind in Christ Jesus." Have you experienced that peace that Have you experienced that peace that Have you experienced that peace that passes all understanding? I mentioned passes all understanding? I mentioned passes all understanding? I mentioned already that my son went to be with the already that my son went to be with the already that my son went to be with the Lord and I tested the word of God. Amen. Lord and I tested the word of God. Amen. Lord and I tested the word of God. Amen. I I couldn't even get to sleep at night. I I couldn't even get to sleep at night. I I couldn't even get to sleep at night. And I would remind myself of what And I would remind myself of what And I would remind myself of what scripture says. And I would quote scripture says. And I would quote scripture says. And I would quote scripture to myself and it would console scripture to myself and it would console scripture to myself and it would console me and comfort me and sustain me. I me and comfort me and sustain me. I me and comfort me and sustain me. I believe the Bible is the word of God believe the Bible is the word of God believe the Bible is the word of God because it gave me the experience it because it gave me the experience it because it gave me the experience it promised. Number two, I believe the promised. Number two, I believe the promised. Number two, I believe the Bible is the word of God and that it is Bible is the word of God and that it is Bible is the word of God and that it is true because it's confirmed by science. true because it's confirmed by science. true because it's confirmed by science. Now, some of you might be thinking, "No, Now, some of you might be thinking, "No, Now, some of you might be thinking, "No, Greg, you're wrong. science and the Greg, you're wrong. science and the Greg, you're wrong. science and the Bible contradict each other. That's not Bible contradict each other. That's not Bible contradict each other. That's not necessarily true. People over the years necessarily true. People over the years necessarily true. People over the years have scoffed at the Bible, saying it's have scoffed at the Bible, saying it's have scoffed at the Bible, saying it's so unscientific. so unscientific. so unscientific. You know, they the people that believe You know, they the people that believe You know, they the people that believe the Bible, they're fools. And well, it's the Bible, they're fools. And well, it's the Bible, they're fools. And well, it's actually the Bible that told us that the actually the Bible that told us that the actually the Bible that told us that the Lord sits on the circle of the earth. Lord sits on the circle of the earth. Lord sits on the circle of the earth. It's a Bible that told us the earth was It's a Bible that told us the earth was It's a Bible that told us the earth was round, not flat as many of the experts round, not flat as many of the experts round, not flat as many of the experts thought at one stage in human history.

thought at one stage in human history. thought at one stage in human history. It's the Bible that tells us and told us It's the Bible that tells us and told us It's the Bible that tells us and told us that the stars in the sky innumerable. that the stars in the sky innumerable. that the stars in the sky innumerable. But of course, astronomers said, "Well, But of course, astronomers said, "Well, But of course, astronomers said, "Well, that's ridiculous. We can actually count that's ridiculous. We can actually count that's ridiculous. We can actually count the stars." And they had their count and the stars." And they had their count and the stars." And they had their count and then they'd get a more powerful then they'd get a more powerful then they'd get a more powerful telescope and add some more numbers to telescope and add some more numbers to telescope and add some more numbers to that and on it grew. But the Bible tells that and on it grew. But the Bible tells that and on it grew. But the Bible tells us that God stretched forth the heavens us that God stretched forth the heavens us that God stretched forth the heavens into a limitless expanse which can never into a limitless expanse which can never into a limitless expanse which can never be measured and filled it with stars be measured and filled it with stars be measured and filled it with stars which are as numerous as the sands upon which are as numerous as the sands upon which are as numerous as the sands upon the seashore. Well, now modern science the seashore. Well, now modern science the seashore. Well, now modern science says confirm this is true that we really says confirm this is true that we really says confirm this is true that we really can't even count the stars in the sky. can't even count the stars in the sky. can't even count the stars in the sky. It was the Bible that told us that It was the Bible that told us that It was the Bible that told us that things that we see are made out of things that we see are made out of things that we see are made out of things that we don't see. Hebrews 11:3 things that we don't see. Hebrews 11:3 things that we don't see. Hebrews 11:3 says, "By faith we understand the entire says, "By faith we understand the entire says, "By faith we understand the entire universe was formed at God's command. universe was formed at God's command. universe was formed at God's command. And what we see now is made out of And what we see now is made out of And what we see now is made out of things we don't see. Everything that we things we don't see. Everything that we things we don't see. Everything that we look at right now is made up of protons, look at right now is made up of protons, look at right now is made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons and also neutrons, and electrons and also neutrons, and electrons and also croutons." No, those are on your salad.

croutons." No, those are on your salad. croutons." No, those are on your salad. But the idea is God told us that things But the idea is God told us that things But the idea is God told us that things we see are made of things we don't see. we see are made of things we don't see. we see are made of things we don't see. So the Bible was ahead of science in So the Bible was ahead of science in So the Bible was ahead of science in many ways. But listen, the Bible is not many ways. But listen, the Bible is not many ways. But listen, the Bible is not a scientific textbook. If it were, it a scientific textbook. If it were, it a scientific textbook. If it were, it would be much larger and much less would be much larger and much less would be much larger and much less comprehensible. The objective of the comprehensible. The objective of the comprehensible. The objective of the scripture is not to tell us how the scripture is not to tell us how the scripture is not to tell us how the heavens go, but how to go to heaven. Let heavens go, but how to go to heaven. Let heavens go, but how to go to heaven. Let me say that again. The objective of the me say that again. The objective of the me say that again. The objective of the Bible is not to tell me how the heavens Bible is not to tell me how the heavens Bible is not to tell me how the heavens go, but how to go to heaven and how to go, but how to go to heaven and how to go, but how to go to heaven and how to know God. Here's another point. The know God. Here's another point. The know God. Here's another point. The Bible is true because it's the one book Bible is true because it's the one book Bible is true because it's the one book that dares to predict the future. Not that dares to predict the future. Not that dares to predict the future. Not once, not twice, but hundreds of times once, not twice, but hundreds of times once, not twice, but hundreds of times with 100% accuracy. Think of all the with 100% accuracy. Think of all the with 100% accuracy. Think of all the scriptures in the Old Testament that scriptures in the Old Testament that scriptures in the Old Testament that pointed to the arrival of the Messiah. pointed to the arrival of the Messiah. pointed to the arrival of the Messiah. The Bible told us in the Old Testament, The Bible told us in the Old Testament, The Bible told us in the Old Testament, Messiah would be born of a virgin. He'd Messiah would be born of a virgin. He'd Messiah would be born of a virgin. He'd be born in Bethlehem. He would be be born in Bethlehem. He would be be born in Bethlehem. He would be crucified. And the Bible said in the Old crucified. And the Bible said in the Old crucified. And the Bible said in the Old Testament he would be crucified before Testament he would be crucified before Testament he would be crucified before the actual act of crucifixion even the actual act of crucifixion even the actual act of crucifixion even existed. The Bible is the one book that existed. The Bible is the one book that existed. The Bible is the one book that tells us what is coming in our future as tells us what is coming in our future as tells us what is coming in our future as well. I'm not talking about Nostradamus well. I'm not talking about Nostradamus well. I'm not talking about Nostradamus here or the Mayan prophecies. I'm here or the Mayan prophecies. I'm here or the Mayan prophecies. I'm talking about a reliable source and that talking about a reliable source and that talking about a reliable source and that really is the mark of a true messenger really is the mark of a true messenger really is the mark of a true messenger from God or a book that comes from God.

from God or a book that comes from God. from God or a book that comes from God. Can it predict the future? And the Can it predict the future? And the Can it predict the future? And the answer with the Bible is yes. Then I answer with the Bible is yes. Then I answer with the Bible is yes. Then I could go on and talk a lot about how could go on and talk a lot about how could go on and talk a lot about how archaeology confirms the Bible. It archaeology confirms the Bible. It archaeology confirms the Bible. It doesn't contradict it. It seems like doesn't contradict it. It seems like doesn't contradict it. It seems like whenever there's a new archaeological whenever there's a new archaeological whenever there's a new archaeological find, it confirms what the Bible said. find, it confirms what the Bible said. find, it confirms what the Bible said. And I could talk about so many things And I could talk about so many things And I could talk about so many things happening in our world right now that happening in our world right now that happening in our world right now that are fulfillments of Bible prophecy, the are fulfillments of Bible prophecy, the are fulfillments of Bible prophecy, the turmoil in the Middle East, and much, turmoil in the Middle East, and much, turmoil in the Middle East, and much, much more. As we're reminded in 2 much more. As we're reminded in 2 much more. As we're reminded in 2 Timothy [music] 3, all scripture is Timothy [music] 3, all scripture is Timothy [music] 3, all scripture is inspired by God. Or another translation inspired by God. Or another translation inspired by God. Or another translation says, all scripture [music] is breathed says, all scripture [music] is breathed says, all scripture [music] is breathed by God. >> [music] >> [music] >> Pastor Greg Lorie with insights on why >> Pastor Greg Lorie with insights on why >> Pastor Greg Lorie with insights on why we can rely on the Bible as the word of we can rely on the Bible as the word of we can rely on the Bible as the word of God. Our message today on a new God. Our message today on a new God. Our message today on a new beginning is titled the refreshing power beginning is titled the refreshing power beginning is titled the refreshing power of the word of God. And there's more to of the word of God. And there's more to of the word of God. And there's more to come. We've talked a lot about the come. We've talked a lot about the come. We've talked a lot about the Bible, God's love letter to his Bible, God's love letter to his Bible, God's love letter to his children, and how he cares for his kids.

children, and how he cares for his kids. children, and how he cares for his kids. Well, Pastor Greg has a further comment Well, Pastor Greg has a further comment Well, Pastor Greg has a further comment he wanted to share. he wanted to share. he wanted to share. >> So, as you've been listening today, >> So, as you've been listening today, >> So, as you've been listening today, maybe you've thought to yourself, "Man, maybe you've thought to yourself, "Man, maybe you've thought to yourself, "Man, I wish I had this relationship with God I wish I had this relationship with God I wish I had this relationship with God that is being talked about." Well, you that is being talked about." Well, you that is being talked about." Well, you can. He's only a prayer away. You see, can. He's only a prayer away. You see, can. He's only a prayer away. You see, becoming a Christian, it doesn't take becoming a Christian, it doesn't take becoming a Christian, it doesn't take years. It doesn't take months. It years. It doesn't take months. It years. It doesn't take months. It doesn't take weeks. It It doesn't even doesn't take weeks. It It doesn't even doesn't take weeks. It It doesn't even take hours. It can happen in a moment. take hours. It can happen in a moment. take hours. It can happen in a moment. The Bible describes it as turning from The Bible describes it as turning from The Bible describes it as turning from darkness to light and from the power of darkness to light and from the power of darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. But before that happens, Satan to God. But before that happens, Satan to God. But before that happens, the Bible says you need to have your the Bible says you need to have your the Bible says you need to have your eyes open. And here's the amazing thing. eyes open. And here's the amazing thing. eyes open. And here's the amazing thing. It's just like in a flash, a light goes It's just like in a flash, a light goes It's just like in a flash, a light goes on and you say, "This is all true." on and you say, "This is all true." on and you say, "This is all true." That's how it happened for me. I just That's how it happened for me. I just That's how it happened for me. I just heard the gospel and all of a sudden I heard the gospel and all of a sudden I heard the gospel and all of a sudden I realized this is all true. And maybe realized this is all true. And maybe realized this is all true. And maybe you've realized that as well. Let me ask you've realized that as well. Let me ask you've realized that as well. Let me ask you, would you like Jesus Christ to come you, would you like Jesus Christ to come you, would you like Jesus Christ to come into your life? Would you like him to into your life? Would you like him to into your life? Would you like him to forgive you of your sin? Would you like forgive you of your sin? Would you like forgive you of your sin? Would you like this relationship with God we've been this relationship with God we've been this relationship with God we've been talking about today? If so, why don't talking about today? If so, why don't talking about today? If so, why don't you just pray a simple prayer with me?

you just pray a simple prayer with me? you just pray a simple prayer with me? You could pray it out loud if you'd You could pray it out loud if you'd You could pray it out loud if you'd like, but say this to God. Lord Jesus, I like, but say this to God. Lord Jesus, I like, but say this to God. Lord Jesus, I know that I'm a sinner, but I know that know that I'm a sinner, but I know that know that I'm a sinner, but I know that you're the savior who died on the cross you're the savior who died on the cross you're the savior who died on the cross for my sin and rose again from the dead. for my sin and rose again from the dead. for my sin and rose again from the dead. Jesus, I turn from my sin and I choose Jesus, I turn from my sin and I choose Jesus, I turn from my sin and I choose to follow you from this moment forward to follow you from this moment forward to follow you from this moment forward as my savior and lord, as my God and as my savior and lord, as my God and as my savior and lord, as my God and friend. Thank you for hearing this friend. Thank you for hearing this friend. Thank you for hearing this prayer. And I ask this in Jesus name. prayer. And I ask this in Jesus name. prayer. And I ask this in Jesus name. Amen. Hey, did you just pray that Amen. Hey, did you just pray that Amen. Hey, did you just pray that prayer? If so, I want to send you at no prayer? If so, I want to send you at no prayer? If so, I want to send you at no charge what we call a new believer's charge what we call a new believer's charge what we call a new believer's Bible. Here's Dave to tell you more. And Bible. Here's Dave to tell you more. And Bible. Here's Dave to tell you more. And let me just say, congratulations. You've let me just say, congratulations. You've let me just say, congratulations. You've made the right decision. made the right decision. made the right decision. >> Yeah. Yeah, that's right. And listen, to >> Yeah. Yeah, that's right. And listen, to >> Yeah. Yeah, that's right. And listen, to help you begin to live this new life, help you begin to live this new life, help you begin to live this new life, this life where you're at peace with God this life where you're at peace with God this life where you're at peace with God and you can begin to enjoy the peace of and you can begin to enjoy the peace of and you can begin to enjoy the peace of God, let us send you Pastor Greg's New God, let us send you Pastor Greg's New God, let us send you Pastor Greg's New Believer's Bible. It's the perfect Believer's Bible. It's the perfect Believer's Bible. It's the perfect resource for someone who's new to the resource for someone who's new to the resource for someone who's new to the faith. We'll send it free of charge if faith. We'll send it free of charge if faith. We'll send it free of charge if you'll just contact us and request it.

you'll just contact us and request it. you'll just contact us and request it. Call us at 1 800821-3300. Call us at 1 800821-3300. Call us at 1 800821-3300. Again, that's 1 800821-33000 or write us at a new beginning box 4000, or write us at a new beginning box 4000, Riverside, California 92514. Riverside, California 92514. Riverside, California 92514. Or just go online to harvest.org Or just go online to harvest.org Or just go online to harvest.org and click know God. And then thank you and click know God. And then thank you and click know God. And then thank you for partnering with us to help these for partnering with us to help these for partnering with us to help these daily studies continue. Your investments daily studies continue. Your investments daily studies continue. Your investments have eternal benefits. Why not make this have eternal benefits. Why not make this have eternal benefits. Why not make this a part of your personal ministry to a part of your personal ministry to a part of your personal ministry to partner in an effort that's making a partner in an effort that's making a partner in an effort that's making a real difference with the gospel of Jesus real difference with the gospel of Jesus real difference with the gospel of Jesus Christ? Thank you for your prayers and Christ? Thank you for your prayers and Christ? Thank you for your prayers and for prayerfully considering how God for prayerfully considering how God for prayerfully considering how God might lead you to help tangibly. Online might lead you to help tangibly. Online might lead you to help tangibly. Online you'll find us at harvest.org you'll find us at harvest.org you'll find us at harvest.org and there you'll see the way we'd like and there you'll see the way we'd like and there you'll see the way we'd like to thank you for your donation right to thank you for your donation right to thank you for your donation right now. That's harvest.org RG or write us now. That's harvest.org RG or write us now. That's harvest.org RG or write us at a new beginning box4000 at a new beginning box4000 at a new beginning box4000 Riverside, California 92514 Riverside, California 92514 Riverside, California 92514 or call us at 1 8008213300.

We're here around the clock to take your We're here around the clock to take your call again at 1 [music] 8008213300. Well, next time, [music] more insights Well, next time, [music] more insights on the importance of God's word and how on the importance of God's word and how on the importance of God's word and how it refreshes the [music] lives of it refreshes the [music] lives of it refreshes the [music] lives of believers. Join us here on a new believers. Join us here on a new believers. Join us here on a new beginning with pastor and Bible teacher beginning with pastor and Bible teacher beginning with pastor and Bible teacher Greg [music] Lorie.