• 10 Biblically-Based Strategies for Stress Management
    Apr 3 2024
    Stress can feel like a relentless tide, washing over our lives with barely a moment's respite. Yet, within the ancient texts of the Bible lie timeless strategies for reclaiming peace and tranquility. We begin our journey unpacking these strategies by turning to the wisdom found in Philippians and Thessalonians, where the call for meditation, prayer, and gratitude forms a solid foundation for stress management. This episode transcends mere coping tips, instead offering a pathway to transform your daily routine through practices that honor both the mind and body, as inspired by Corinthians. Embrace the teachings that frame physical exercise not just as a necessity but a celebration of our earthly vessels.

    Our special guest enriches the conversation by shedding light on the profound relief that comes with the practice of forgiveness. Letting go becomes an art form in this discussion, as we unburden ourselves of resentment and open our hearts to the possibilities that trust and surrender to God's plan can bring. We continue weaving these timeless teachings into a modern context, recognizing the pillars of self-care and community support as not only beneficial but vital to our well-being. Join us in seeking retreat from the stressors of life, and discover how fostering inner peace can guide you to a remarkably stress-free existence, buoyed by spiritual growth and the pursuit of contentment.

    ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE

    Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!

    Links
    Website – https://jameslongjr.org/
    Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr
    Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/
    Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast
    Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

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    15 mins
  • The Gravity of Grace (Romans 3)
    Mar 30 2024

    Show Notes for "The Gravity of Grace (Romans 3)"

    • Introduction:
      • Discussion on the nature of anger and its moral implications.
      • A whole person's response to perceived evil, not just an emotional reaction .
    • The Problem of Sin and God's Wrath:
      • Exploration of human sinfulness and God's righteous anger towards sin.
      • Quotes from the Old Testament depicting God's wrath .
    • The Dilemmas We Face:
      • The righteousness of God and our enslavement to sin.
      • The inevitability of standing before God and being accountable for our actions .
    • The Solution – The Salvation Triangle:
      • Introduction to the Salvation Triangle and its significance.
      • A breakdown of the three key components: Propitiation, Redemption, and Justification .
    • Propitiation:
      • Understanding Jesus as the atoning sacrifice who satisfied God's wrath .
    • Redemption:
      • The liberating power of Christ's blood, offering freedom at a great cost .
    • Justification:
      • The act of being declared righteous by faith in Jesus Christ .
    • Conclusion:
      • A call to humility and faith in response to the message of the cross.
      • Encouragement to trust in Jesus and recognize the gravity of God's grace .
    • Prayer:
      • Closing prayer reflecting on the themes of the message and seeking God's continued guidance .
    • Resources:
      • Mention of "Uprooting Anger" by Robert Jones as a helpful book on understanding and dealing with anger.
      • Reference to theologian James Montgomery Boyce's work on the Salvation Triangle.
    • Invitation:
      • An invitation to listeners to deepen their understanding of the message and to apply it to their lives.
      • Encouragement to share insights and personal reflections with the community.

    For a complete transcript of "The Gravity of Grace (Romans 3)," access the full document here.

    ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE

    Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!

    Links
    Website – https://jameslongjr.org/
    Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr
    Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/
    Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast
    Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

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    29 mins
  • Embracing the Beatitudes: A Journey Through Anxiety, Anger, and Spiritual Transformation
    Feb 29 2024

    Do the tumultuous emotions of anxiety and anger seem all too familiar in your life? Our latest episode is a beacon of hope, offering insight into the transformative teachings of Jesus through the Beatitudes. We discuss how these ancient precepts provide not just a singular path, but a continuing journey that reshapes the very character of those who follow them. Unpack the beauty and challenge of an inner transformation that's meant to shine outwardly, much like the fruit of the spirit emerges in the life of a believer. Our conversation is a heartfelt invitation to reflect on the deep values that should anchor our existence and guide us toward a more visible expression of our faith.

    As we navigate this spiritual expedition, we reflect on the profound growth that stems from recognizing our poverty of spirit and the humility of coming before the cross with nothing but our hearts laid bare. We draw inspiration from figures like Moses and Jesus, who exemplify meekness—a potent mixture of strength and gentleness. The episode pulses with the desire for righteousness and justice, encouraging listeners to immerse themselves in a pursuit that aligns with God's heart, with promises of comfort and the kingdom of heaven as our compass. Join us as we dissect the implications of these beatitudes in our lives, finding solace in the transformative journey they chart.

    Embracing the beatitudes means reflecting the character of Christ, even when the path leads us through the fires of persecution. We explore the virtues of mercy and peacemaking, and the strength that comes from purity of heart. For believers across the spectrum—from the self-assured to the overwhelmed by sin—we offer insights into how these principles can ground us in God's unwavering love. Together, we pray for and extend an invitation to those who stand at the crossroads, yearning for the peace and redemption that is found at the foot of the cross. Embark with us on this episode, where we seek to embody the fullness of Christ's character and embrace the profound rewards of a righteous life.

    ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE

    Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!

    Links
    Website – https://jameslongjr.org/
    Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr
    Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/
    Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast
    Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

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    46 mins
  • Reflecting on the Beatitudes and the Essence of Jesus's Early Ministry
    Feb 27 2024

    Discover the profound lessons embedded within the life and teachings of Jesus Christ as we journey through history to a time when divine silence was broken. Embark on a narrative adventure starting with the angelic announcement to Mary, moving through John the Baptist's fervent call for repentance, and culminating in Christ's own baptism, temptation, and early ministry. Our exploration promises to illuminate the inseparable link between Jesus' transformative words and His miraculous deeds, akin to the prophets of old, providing a compelling understanding of the true essence of His mission.

    As we navigate the complexities of discipleship and the paradoxical nature of godly blessing, we unravel the depth of Jesus' mentorship to His disciples. Contrasting modern evangelical trends with the intimate, ripple-effect approach of Christ, we discern the weighty joy in the oracles of blessing and woe. Feel the pull towards a deeper connection with the divine as we parse the Sermon on the Mount, exposing a path to fulfillment that reaches far beyond earthly contentment.

    Lastly, this episode addresses the heartrending yet transformative experience of godly sorrow, distinguishing it from the fleeting pangs of worldly regret. We offer solace and insight into the beatitudes, reflecting on the traits of kingdom citizens and the power of recognizing our need for redemption. Our prayerful closing invites listeners to embrace humility, seek repentance, and foster a relationship with the Almighty, ensuring a journey towards forgiveness and true spiritual freedom. Join us for this introspective episode, where ancient teachings meet the enduring quest for spiritual growth and understanding.

    ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE

    Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!

    Links
    Website – https://jameslongjr.org/
    Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr
    Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/
    Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast
    Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

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    49 mins
  • The Unwavering Love of God Through Suffering and Salvation
    Feb 25 2024

    Suffering can often feel like an inescapable shadow, looming over our lives with a weight that is all too real. We look to the apostle Peter, the beacon of hope, as we walk through the deepest valleys of our human experience, discussing the many forms that suffering takes—mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual. Peter's letters speak to the heart of our struggles, offering not the secular hope of wishful thinking but a profound biblical assurance that anchors us firmly in the midst of life's tempests. As we unpack these messages, we're reminded of the grace that flows from understanding and embracing this hope.

    Our exploration doesn't stop at the doorstep of adversity; instead, it leads us to the comforting doctrine of divine election and the thought-provoking concept of God's foreknowledge. Even as we wrestle with our flaws, we find solace in knowing that we are part of an eternal plan, chosen not for our merits but for His purpose. Through the lens of 1 Peter, we see how this knowledge offers us a stronghold during trying times, reinforcing our faith in the steadfast nature of God's love and His unshakeable commitment to us.

    And in the stirring journey of salvation, we encounter the radical love of God—a deliberate choice rather than a fleeting emotion, as society often portrays it. The conversation extends beyond our initial transformation at conversion, delving into the ongoing process of sanctification by the Spirit. We discuss the intertwining of obedience and grace, understanding that while our paths may sometimes diverge from the divine, His enduring faithfulness remains our guiding star. Our discourse culminates with reflections on the stability of a life built upon the rock-solid foundation of Christ's teachings, leaving us with a prayer for strength and the comfort of His eternal refuge.

    ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE

    Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!

    Links
    Website – https://jameslongjr.org/
    Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr
    Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/
    Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast
    Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

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    35 mins
  • Genesis 8:20-9:17 "From Noah's Ark to the Cross: God's Faithfulness and Our Assurance"
    Dec 5 2023

    From Noah’s Ark to the Cross: God's Faithfulness and Our Assurance (Genesis 8:20-9:17)

    1. The Faithfulness of God in the Flood (Genesis 8:20-22)

    2. The Sanctity of Human Life (Genesis 9:1-7)

    3. The Covenant with Noah: A Promise of Preservation (Genesis 9:8-17)

    Bringing It Home: Applying What We Have Learned

    • Assurance in Times of Anxiety

    • From Noah’s Obedience to Faith in Christ
      • Hebrews 11:7
    • The Ultimate Fulfillment: Christ’s Sacrifice on the Cross
      • Romans 8:1
      • 1 Peter 3:18
    • Living Under the New Covenant
      • 2 Corinthians 1:20

    ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE

    Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!

    Links
    Website – https://jameslongjr.org/
    Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr
    Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/
    Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast
    Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

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    41 mins
  • Genesis 3:9-24 "The Penalty of Guilt and the Promise of Grace"
    Nov 9 2023
    Genesis 3:9-24: "The Penalty of Guilt and the Promise of Grace: Understanding Sin's Gravity and Grace's Reach"

    jameslongjr.org


    The Penalty of Guilt and the Promise of Grace: Understanding Sin's Gravity and Grace's Reach (Genesis 3:14-24)


    1. Prosecution (
    Genesis 3:9-13)

    2. Penalty: The Divine Decree of Judgment (Genesis 3:14-19)

    3. Promise: The Proclamation of Redemption (Genesis 3:15, 20-21)

    4. Parting: The Expulsion and the Cherubim (Genesis 3:22-24)

    ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE

    Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!

    Links
    Website – https://jameslongjr.org/
    Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr
    Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/
    Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast
    Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

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    51 mins
  • Genesis 3:1-13 "The Deception in Eden"
    Nov 8 2023

    Genesis 3:1-13 - "The Deception in Eden: How Satan's Doubts Lead to Humanity's Downfall"

    James Long, Jr. - https://jameslongjr.org/

    Dive deep into Genesis 3:1-13 as we explore Satan's cunning tactics that led Eve to question God's Word, Character, and Authority. Understand the recurring pattern of sin through 'saw, desired, took' and see its parallels in the stories of Achan and David. Discover the immediate consequences: shame, fear, and guilt that resonate in our lives today.

    Message: Genesis 3:1-13 - "The Deception in Eden: How Satan's Doubts Lead to Humanity's Downfall"


    1. Perversion: The Crafty Deception (Genesis 3:1-5)

    • ‌Doubting God's Word (Commands) – "Did God actually say…?" (v. 1)
    • ‌Doubting God's Authority (Consequences)– "You will not surely die" (v. 4)
    • ‌Doubting God's Goodness (Character) – "You will be like God" (v. 5)

    ‌Temptation in Eden and its Parallels:

    • The serpent subtly contradicts God's command.
    • Sowing doubt in Eve's mind about God's truth.
    • The motivation, opportunity, and perceived benefits of disobedience.

    2. Pretense: The Human Response (Genesis 3:6)

    • The Repeated Pattern of Sin:
      • Saw - The allure and attraction of sin (parallels with Achan & David).
      • Desired - Internal battle and justification of sin. ‌
      • Took - The act of committing the sin.

    3. Panic: The Consequences of Disobedience (Genesis 3:7-10)

    • ‌Shame – The immediate realization and self-awareness (v. 7)
      • The instinct to Cover Up – Making of fig leaves.
    • Fear – The dread of facing God (v. 8-10) ‌
      • The instinct to Run and Hide – Hiding from God's presence. ‌

    4. Pursuit: God Pursue, Prods, and Probes (Genesis 3:9-11)

    • God pursues Adam (and Eve)‌
    • God prods
    • God probes‌
      • The instinct to Blameshift and avoid responsibility.

    5. Prelude to God's response and hope for redemption.

    • Application # 1: Know God’s Word
    • Application # 2: Understanding the Word
    • Application # 3: Trust in God's Character

    ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE

    Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!

    Links
    Website – https://jameslongjr.org/
    Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr
    Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/
    Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast
    Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast

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    42 mins