March 19, 2025 • 25 mins
The darkness is spreading, just as Scripture foretold. From systematic torture in detention centers to modern slavery, from militia violence against children to mass executions, our world increasingly reflects the sobering prophecy of 2 Timothy 3:1-4: "In the last days, terrible times will come, for people will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money."
This spiritual decay isn't random but represents a profound shift toward selfishness and cruelty. Technology amplifies our obsession with validation rather than connection. Materialism drives the endless pursuit of wealth at others' expense. Absolute truth crumbles as Isaiah's warning plays out before us: "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness." The consequences surround us – broken relationships, widespread injustice, and moral collapse.
Yet amid this growing coldness, God calls His people to remain warm-hearted. Romans 12:2 provides our strategy: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind." This transformation enables us to practice radical empathy, serve selflessly, advocate boldly for justice, and demonstrate consistent kindness. Organizations rescuing trafficking victims, volunteers rebuilding after disasters, and individuals performing simple acts of compassion prove God remains active through those who choose to reflect His light. From "blessing boxes" providing food security to recovery programs offering healing, practical opportunities abound for pushing back against darkness.
The choice stands before each of us: Will we allow our hearts to grow cold like the world around us, or will we stay close to the warmth of God's presence and share it with others? Your decision matters more than ever. Share this message with someone who needs encouragement, and join us next week for more unfiltered biblical truth and undeniable prophecy. Jesus is coming soon – stay watchful, stay holy, stay renewed.
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Thank You. I Love You!
SEE YA!
Rick
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
The world is changing and time is running out.
This is Renewed Mindsets, wherewe confront biblical truth
head-on no sugarcoating, nocompromise.
We expose false doctrine,reveal fulfilled prophecy and
shine light on the demonicdeception of these last days,
(00:21):
but we also stand firm on thehope of Christ's return, the
call to holiness and the urgencyof true salvation.
It's time to renew your mind,for the time is now.
Let's go, boys.
Hey, welcome to RenewedMindsets.
(00:47):
I'm Rick and I'm so glad you'rehere Today.
I just want to open up the Wordof God together and talk about
something that's been heavy onmy heart how selfishness and
cruelty seem to be increasingall around us.
Now we know the Bible warns usabout these things in the end
times.
But as believers, how do werespond?
(01:10):
How do we stay anchored inGod's truth and shine His love
in a world that's growing darker?
Let's dig in and see what Godhas to say.
So Scripture provides us withclear warnings about the nature
of humanity in the last days.
In 2 Timothy 3, 1-4, theApostle Paul writes but
(01:35):
understand this in the last days, terrible times will come, for
(02:03):
people will be lovers ofthemselves, lovers of money.
You have to admit it paints asobering picture of societal
decay.
It highlights the traits suchas selfishness and greed and a
lack of natural affection.
Just pay attention to the newsor your social media feed as you
(02:24):
observe current events.
It's evident that theseprophecies are manifesting in
our world today.
So let's take a moment to lookat some of the heartbreaking
events that are happening in ourworld right now, things that
really show just how muchdarkness is spreading.
(02:45):
Now we all know that there's awar in the Ukraine and there's
prisoners of war, and there'sreports coming out that the
execution of Ukrainian POWs issurging, with evidence that
points to systematic orders forthese actions.
And also in the Ukraine,there's been investigations that
(03:06):
have uncovered horrific abusein Russian detention centers.
Ukrainian men and boys arebeing subjected to electric
shocks to their genitals andother acts of torture that are
meant to strip away theirdignity.
Now let's go to Australia.
Authorities are seeing a sharprise in modern slavery,
(03:27):
including forced marriages andsexual exploitation.
It proves that even in today'sworld, people are still being
treated like property.
And in the Congo, the M23militia is terrorizing
communities, executing childrenand using sexual violence
against women to gain control ofland and resources.
(03:49):
And in Mali, reports accuseMalayan forces, with their
support of Russian Wagnermercenaries, of war crimes, mass
executions, destruction ofvillages it's just unimaginable
suffering.
And these are just a few.
(04:10):
They're not just random,isolated incidents.
They're part of a much biggershift, a world that's becoming
more hardened, more desensitizedand more self-absorbed.
More desensitized and moreself-absorbed.
This is exactly what the Biblewarned us about, and it's a
reminder that we, as believers,need to stay vigilant, we need
(04:31):
to stay prayerful and we need toshine the light of Christ in
these dark times.
So what we're seeing in theworld today the cruelty, the
selfishness, the completedisregard for others isn't just
random.
It's a sign of something muchdeeper.
(04:54):
Spiritually, our society is sickwhen people put their own
desires above everything else.
Communities break down, moralsfade and the world becomes more
chaotic.
The James 3.16 puts it plainly,for where envy and selfish
ambition exist, there isdisorder and every evil practice
(05:17):
.
And isn't that exactly whatwe're witnessing?
From broken relationships tofull-blown injustice.
This self-centered mindset iseroding empathy and it's making
it easier for cruelty to spreadunchecked.
Think about how technology andsocial media play into this.
So many people are obsessedwith getting likes, followers
(05:41):
and validation instead ofbuilding real, meaningful
connections.
Instead of kindness andunderstanding we see, cancel
culture, criticism and division.
Then there's materialism, ourculture's obsession with wealth
and status and success.
People are chasing after moneyand power without caring about
(06:03):
the destruction they leave intheir wake.
But Jesus warned us of that inMatthew 6, 24.
No one can serve two masters.
You can't serve both God andmoney.
When society puts self-gainabove everything else, greed and
corruption follow.
And even more concerning, we'rewatching absolute truth be
(06:25):
replaced by whatever feels rightin the moment.
God's standards are beingignored in favor of personal
opinions.
That's exactly what theLaodicean church age is about
People living by their ownopinions instead of God's truth.
Isaiah 520 warns us about thisshift.
Woe to those who call evil goodand good evil, who put darkness
(06:48):
for light and light fordarkness.
And we're seeing it play out.
Things the Bible calls sin arenow celebrated, and those who
stand for God's truth arelabeled intolerant.
The result A world that'sdrifting further from God,
embracing lawlessness and moraldecay.
But here's the good news Godhas given us a way to stand firm
(07:11):
, just from renewed mindsets.
You know it.
Romans 12, 2 reminds us do notbe conformed to this world, but
be transformed by the renewal ofyour mind.
It all comes down to this Stayrooted in God's Word, seek Him
daily, choose to live out Hislove, even when the world grows
(07:32):
colder.
That's how we push back thedarkness, by becoming the light
he's called us to be.
So, with all that said, howshould we, as followers of
Christ, respond?
Well, we cannot allow ourhearts to grow cold too, like
(07:53):
the world around us.
Instead, we have to activelyseek to be vessels of God's love
, shining his light in thedarkness.
Now here's some key ways thatwe can live out his call to
compassion and action.
So first, romans 12, 15 tells usrejoice with those who rejoice,
mourn with those who mourn.
We've got to train our heartsto be sensitive to the pain and
(08:16):
struggles of people around us.
Now this starts with listening,truly listening to the needs of
others rather than dismissingor judging them, whether it's a
friend facing hardship or astranger in crisis, or a
community experiencing justice.
We've got to show them the samegrace and understanding that
(08:37):
Christ shows us.
Next, we've got Acts 20.35, andit reminds us it's more blessed
to give than to receive.
Now, one of the most powerfulways to counteract the
selfishness of this world is byserving others, whether it's
through volunteering at sheltersor feeding the hungry, or
mentoring at-risk youth.
(08:57):
Our hands and feet should beextensions of God's love.
When people see us actingselflessly, it softens their
hearts and it draws them towardsChrist.
Next we go to Proverbs 31, 8,and 9.
It says Speak up for those whocannot speak for themselves, for
the rights of all who aredestitute.
(09:17):
Speak up and judge fairly.
Defend the rights of the poorand needy.
We can't remain silent in theface of injustice.
Whether it's standing againsthuman trafficking or fighting
for the unborn, or opposingcorruption.
We've got to be bold inproclaiming truth and defending
the vulnerable.
(09:38):
Next, and this is a big one, ina world filled with division and
hostility, small acts ofkindness can make a profound
difference in people's lives.
Just smiling at a stranger,offering encouragement to a
co-worker, showing patience indifficult situations those are
all ways to demonstrate Christ'slove.
(10:06):
Matthew 5.16 tells us let yourinteractions with people should
be a testament to the power ofGod's love.
So let's move on.
The world encourages us tohoard wealth and possessions,
but Jesus calls us to adifferent standard.
Luke 6.38 says Give and it willbe given to you.
(10:27):
A good measure, pressed down,shaken together and running over
, will be poured into your lap,for with the measure you use it
will be measured to you, whetherit's financial giving, offering
our time or using our talentsto serve others.
Generosity breaks the grip ofmaterialism and it strengthens
(10:48):
our faith.
This one is so important.
Bitterness and resentment aretools the enemy uses to divide
us, but Jesus calls us to ahigher standard.
Colossians 3.13 teaches to ahigher standard.
Colossians 3.13 teaches Bearwith each other and forgive one
another.
If any of you has a grievanceagainst someone, forgive, as the
(11:10):
Lord forgave you.
Choosing forgiveness, even whenit's difficult, demonstrates
the transformative power ofGod's grace and promotes healing
in a broken world.
So we've got to educate people.
Many people in this world areunaware of the spiritual battle
that's taking place around them.
(11:30):
By sharing biblical truthsabout selfishness and sin and
the importance of compassion, wecan awaken hearts to God's call
.
Whether it's through teachingor social media or personal
conversations, spreadingawareness equips others to
resist the hardness of the heartthat's taking over society.
(11:51):
So how are we going to work totransform society?
True change begins in the heart.
We've got to pray for our ownhearts to remain soft and for
God to move in the lives ofthose around us.
Ezekiel 36 26 gives us hope.
I will give you a new heart andput a new spirit in you.
(12:11):
I will remove from you yourheart of stone and give you a
heart of flesh.
Prayer is one of the mostpowerful weapons that we have in
combating the growing darknessof these times.
Pray for revival all over andmake sure that we're teaching
(12:35):
the next generation.
Proverbs 22 6 instructs us totrain up a child in the way he
should go, and when he's old hewill not depart from it.
If we don't instill godlyvalues in our own children, the
world will shape them into itsmold.
By teaching them about kindnessand integrity and the love of
Christ, we equip them to be alight for future generations.
And finally, we have to makesure that we don't shrink back
(12:58):
in fear or apathy.
Hebrews 10.23 reminds us.
Fear or apathy.
Hebrews 10.23 reminds us.
Let us hold unswervingly to thehope that we profess, for he
who promised is faithful.
The days are dark, but we arenot without hope.
We have to live with purpose,boldly proclaiming the gospel
(13:25):
and being faithful in themission God has given us.
By embodying all theseprinciples that I just talked
about, we not only resist thetide of selfishness and cruelty,
but also reflect on thetransformative power of God's
love in our lives.
If we truly want to change theworld, it starts with us, by
choosing to live differently, tolove radically and to shine
(13:46):
brightly in the midst ofdarkness.
Even in the midst of all thedarkness, there's incredible
stories of hope, proof that Godis still moving and working
through his people.
There's organizations andindividuals dedicated to
rescuing those trapped insuffering, whether it's victims
(14:08):
of human trafficking or evenabused animals.
They step in, they provide careand they give people a second
chance at life.
Take the International JusticeMission, for example.
They've helped thousands ofpeople escape modern-day slavery
.
One powerful story is that ofKumar.
He was enslaved in a brick kilnin India for years before IJM
(14:32):
intervened.
They rescued him and helped himrebuild his life.
And when disaster strikes, a lotof times we see people come
together in amazing ways.
They show selflessness andunity.
Now there's a tornado outbreakin 2023 in Kentucky.
Churches and volunteers acrossthe state stepped up.
(14:54):
They rebuilt homes, theydistributed food and offered
emotional and spiritual supportto people who lost everything.
That is the love of Christ inaction.
God's also working throughpeople who are raising awareness
and fighting for justice.
Christine Kane is a Christianadvocate.
(15:16):
She founded A21 Ministries.
It's an anti-trafficking oranti-human trafficking
organization, and it not onlyrescues victims, but it educates
communities and people toprevent further exploitation.
Her faith has fueled a globalmovement to bring freedom to the
(15:36):
oppressed.
Now we've all seen how God cantake a life heading down the
wrong path and completelytransform it.
I'm sure you have.
Look at Nicky Cruz.
He was a feared gang leader inNew York, but everything changed
when he encountered Jesusthrough an evangelist named
David Wilkerson.
(15:56):
That encounter led him tobecome a minister.
He shared the gospel withthousands and brought people out
of the same darkness that helived in once, and sometimes
it's the simplest acts ofkindness that make the biggest
difference.
In 2022, a police officer inArizona noticed a homeless man
(16:17):
struggling with torn shoes.
Instead of just offeringsympathy, he took off his own
boots and gave them to the man.
That's exactly what Jesus wastalking about in Matthew 25, 40.
Truly, I tell you, whatever youdid for one of the least of
these brothers and sisters ofmine, you did for me.
(16:39):
Now, these stories remind usthat, no matter how dark the
world may seem, god is still atwork.
His love is being poured outthrough people who choose to
reflect His light.
When we hear testimonies likethese, it encourages us to
resist the coldness of the worldand step up to be a part of
what God is doing right where weare.
(16:59):
So we have to live differently.
How can we push back againstthe darkness?
Let's think about some real,practical ways that we can fight
against the selfishness andcruelty that we see in the world
.
These aren't just ideas.
They're things that real peopleand organizations are already
(17:23):
doing to make a difference.
We need to regularly check ourown hearts and make sure our
actions and attitudes reflectChrist.
Let's take a look at Casey Diaz.
He was a gang leader living alife of violence, but everything
changed when he met Jesus insolitary confinement.
Now he speaks about redemptionand what a transformed life
(17:44):
really looks like, and one ofthe best ways to push back
against the darkness is toactively spread light.
Now you know, you've seen them.
Many small churches have startedthe blessing boxes right.
They're community pantrieswhere people can leave food and
toiletries for anybody in need.
Simple acts of generosity likethis make a huge impact, and
(18:09):
other initiatives like that havehelped fight food insecurity in
communities all over the world.
The choices that we make, wherewe shop, what we support
matters.
We need to support ethical andcompassionate businesses.
Thistle Farms is a greatexample.
(18:29):
This company employs and helpswomen recovering from
trafficking, addiction abuse,and it proves that a business
can be a force for healing.
When we support businesses thatalign with God's heart for
justice and compassion, we helpcreate lasting change.
(18:49):
So many people are hurtingphysically, emotionally,
spiritually.
We need to create spaces wherethey can find healing through
Christ.
Celebrate Recovery is one ofthose spaces.
It's a Christian-basedaddiction recovery program that
(19:09):
has helped thousands overcomestruggles through biblical
principles.
My own church has started aCelebrate Recovery group.
I can't wait to see the livesthat will be changed through it
and if you'd like to be a partof that, find a Celebrate
Recovery in your local area.
And if you can't find one, goto buymeacoffeecom.
(19:31):
Slash renewedmindsets.
I'll let you donate to mychurch and I'll make sure that
you get credit for that.
Sorry for the plug, butCelebrate Recovery is really
awesome.
We need to remember to pray forpeople who are suffering.
It's not just something that wedo.
Prayer is powerful.
In 2024, churches around theworld united in prayer for
(19:56):
persecuted Christians inAfghanistan.
That movement of prayer broughtglobal attention to their
suffering and led to moreadvocacy and action on their
behalf.
Never underestimate what Godcan do when his people pray.
Now we said this earlier If wewant a better future, we've got
(20:17):
to invest in the next generation.
Proverbs 22.6 reminds us againtrain up a child in the way he
should go, and when he's olderhe will not depart from it.
Programs like Character Countshave integrated biblical values
like integrity, responsibilityand kindness into school
curriculums.
It shapes young hearts for good, and we need to be intentional
(20:41):
about teaching children how towalk in truth, as well as us
living with boldness and purpose.
This isn't time for fear orhesitation.
People, this is the end times.
Hebrews 10.23 calls us to standfirm.
Let us hold unswervingly to thehope we profess, for he who
(21:06):
promised is faithful.
Look at Nick Vujic.
He was born without arms orlegs, yet he's traveled the
world boldly, preaching thegospel and showing millions that
God's strength is made perfectin our weakness.
We're called to live with thatsame courage.
People, you and I, are calledto live with that same courage
(21:30):
and purpose.
It starts with us.
If we really want to change theworld, it begins with the
choices that we make every day,when we choose to love radically
, to serve selflessly and standboldly for Christ, we push back
against the darkness.
The world may seem cold, butwe're called to shine the light
(21:52):
of Jesus now more than ever.
The world may be growing colder, but we don't have to Stay
close to the warmth of God'spresence, abide in His love and
share it with those around you.
I want to thank you for joiningme today on Renewed Mindsets.
(22:14):
If this message blessed, you,share it with someone who needs
encouragement.
Until next time, stay strong infaith and keep your heart
burning for the Lord.
That's all for today, but I'llbe back with more unfiltered
biblical truth and undeniableprophecy.
The time to wake up is now.
(22:34):
If today's episode challengedyou, don't keep it to yourself.
Tell someone.
Please.
Text them a link.
Share the truth while there'sstill time.
Visit renewedmindsetscom tostay connected and to listen to
past episodes, and check out ourmerch at renewedmindsetsstore.
Jesus is coming soon.
(22:57):
Stay watchful, stay holy, stayrenewed Until next week.
I'm Rick.
Be an encourager, not adiscourager.
I love you, see ya.
The world is changing and time is running out.
This is Renewed Mindsets, wherewe confront biblical truth
head-on no sugarcoating, nocompromise.
We expose false doctrine,reveal fulfilled prophecy and
shine light on the demonicdeception of these last days,
(00:21):
but we also stand firm on thehope of Christ's return, the
call to holiness and the urgencyof true salvation.
It's time to renew your mind,for the time is now.
Let's go, boys.
Hey, welcome to RenewedMindsets.
(00:47):
I'm Rick and I'm so glad you'rehere Today.
I just want to open up the Wordof God together and talk about
something that's been heavy onmy heart how selfishness and
cruelty seem to be increasingall around us.
Now we know the Bible warns usabout these things in the end
times.
But as believers, how do werespond?
(01:10):
How do we stay anchored inGod's truth and shine His love
in a world that's growing darker?
Let's dig in and see what Godhas to say.
So Scripture provides us withclear warnings about the nature
of humanity in the last days.
In 2 Timothy 3, 1-4, theApostle Paul writes but
(01:35):
understand this in the last days, terrible times will come, for
(02:03):
people will be lovers ofthemselves, lovers of money.
You have to admit it paints asobering picture of societal
decay.
It highlights the traits suchas selfishness and greed and a
lack of natural affection.
Just pay attention to the newsor your social media feed as you
(02:24):
observe current events.
It's evident that theseprophecies are manifesting in
our world today.
So let's take a moment to lookat some of the heartbreaking
events that are happening in ourworld right now, things that
really show just how muchdarkness is spreading.
(02:45):
Now we all know that there's awar in the Ukraine and there's
prisoners of war, and there'sreports coming out that the
execution of Ukrainian POWs issurging, with evidence that
points to systematic orders forthese actions.
And also in the Ukraine,there's been investigations that
(03:06):
have uncovered horrific abusein Russian detention centers.
Ukrainian men and boys arebeing subjected to electric
shocks to their genitals andother acts of torture that are
meant to strip away theirdignity.
Now let's go to Australia.
Authorities are seeing a sharprise in modern slavery,
(03:27):
including forced marriages andsexual exploitation.
It proves that even in today'sworld, people are still being
treated like property.
And in the Congo, the M23militia is terrorizing
communities, executing childrenand using sexual violence
against women to gain control ofland and resources.
(03:49):
And in Mali, reports accuseMalayan forces, with their
support of Russian Wagnermercenaries, of war crimes, mass
executions, destruction ofvillages it's just unimaginable
suffering.
And these are just a few.
(04:10):
They're not just random,isolated incidents.
They're part of a much biggershift, a world that's becoming
more hardened, more desensitizedand more self-absorbed.
More desensitized and moreself-absorbed.
This is exactly what the Biblewarned us about, and it's a
reminder that we, as believers,need to stay vigilant, we need
(04:31):
to stay prayerful and we need toshine the light of Christ in
these dark times.
So what we're seeing in theworld today the cruelty, the
selfishness, the completedisregard for others isn't just
random.
It's a sign of something muchdeeper.
(04:54):
Spiritually, our society is sickwhen people put their own
desires above everything else.
Communities break down, moralsfade and the world becomes more
chaotic.
The James 3.16 puts it plainly,for where envy and selfish
ambition exist, there isdisorder and every evil practice
(05:17):
.
And isn't that exactly whatwe're witnessing?
From broken relationships tofull-blown injustice.
This self-centered mindset iseroding empathy and it's making
it easier for cruelty to spreadunchecked.
Think about how technology andsocial media play into this.
So many people are obsessedwith getting likes, followers
(05:41):
and validation instead ofbuilding real, meaningful
connections.
Instead of kindness andunderstanding we see, cancel
culture, criticism and division.
Then there's materialism, ourculture's obsession with wealth
and status and success.
People are chasing after moneyand power without caring about
(06:03):
the destruction they leave intheir wake.
But Jesus warned us of that inMatthew 6, 24.
No one can serve two masters.
You can't serve both God andmoney.
When society puts self-gainabove everything else, greed and
corruption follow.
And even more concerning, we'rewatching absolute truth be
(06:25):
replaced by whatever feels rightin the moment.
God's standards are beingignored in favor of personal
opinions.
That's exactly what theLaodicean church age is about
People living by their ownopinions instead of God's truth.
Isaiah 520 warns us about thisshift.
Woe to those who call evil goodand good evil, who put darkness
(06:48):
for light and light fordarkness.
And we're seeing it play out.
Things the Bible calls sin arenow celebrated, and those who
stand for God's truth arelabeled intolerant.
The result A world that'sdrifting further from God,
embracing lawlessness and moraldecay.
But here's the good news Godhas given us a way to stand firm
(07:11):
, just from renewed mindsets.
You know it.
Romans 12, 2 reminds us do notbe conformed to this world, but
be transformed by the renewal ofyour mind.
It all comes down to this Stayrooted in God's Word, seek Him
daily, choose to live out Hislove, even when the world grows
(07:32):
colder.
That's how we push back thedarkness, by becoming the light
he's called us to be.
So, with all that said, howshould we, as followers of
Christ, respond?
Well, we cannot allow ourhearts to grow cold too, like
(07:53):
the world around us.
Instead, we have to activelyseek to be vessels of God's love
, shining his light in thedarkness.
Now here's some key ways thatwe can live out his call to
compassion and action.
So first, romans 12, 15 tells usrejoice with those who rejoice,
mourn with those who mourn.
We've got to train our heartsto be sensitive to the pain and
(08:16):
struggles of people around us.
Now this starts with listening,truly listening to the needs of
others rather than dismissingor judging them, whether it's a
friend facing hardship or astranger in crisis, or a
community experiencing justice.
We've got to show them the samegrace and understanding that
(08:37):
Christ shows us.
Next, we've got Acts 20.35, andit reminds us it's more blessed
to give than to receive.
Now, one of the most powerfulways to counteract the
selfishness of this world is byserving others, whether it's
through volunteering at sheltersor feeding the hungry, or
mentoring at-risk youth.
(08:57):
Our hands and feet should beextensions of God's love.
When people see us actingselflessly, it softens their
hearts and it draws them towardsChrist.
Next we go to Proverbs 31, 8,and 9.
It says Speak up for those whocannot speak for themselves, for
the rights of all who aredestitute.
(09:17):
Speak up and judge fairly.
Defend the rights of the poorand needy.
We can't remain silent in theface of injustice.
Whether it's standing againsthuman trafficking or fighting
for the unborn, or opposingcorruption.
We've got to be bold inproclaiming truth and defending
the vulnerable.
(09:38):
Next, and this is a big one, ina world filled with division and
hostility, small acts ofkindness can make a profound
difference in people's lives.
Just smiling at a stranger,offering encouragement to a
co-worker, showing patience indifficult situations those are
all ways to demonstrate Christ'slove.
(10:06):
Matthew 5.16 tells us let yourinteractions with people should
be a testament to the power ofGod's love.
So let's move on.
The world encourages us tohoard wealth and possessions,
but Jesus calls us to adifferent standard.
Luke 6.38 says Give and it willbe given to you.
(10:27):
A good measure, pressed down,shaken together and running over
, will be poured into your lap,for with the measure you use it
will be measured to you, whetherit's financial giving, offering
our time or using our talentsto serve others.
Generosity breaks the grip ofmaterialism and it strengthens
(10:48):
our faith.
This one is so important.
Bitterness and resentment aretools the enemy uses to divide
us, but Jesus calls us to ahigher standard.
Colossians 3.13 teaches to ahigher standard.
Colossians 3.13 teaches Bearwith each other and forgive one
another.
If any of you has a grievanceagainst someone, forgive, as the
(11:10):
Lord forgave you.
Choosing forgiveness, even whenit's difficult, demonstrates
the transformative power ofGod's grace and promotes healing
in a broken world.
So we've got to educate people.
Many people in this world areunaware of the spiritual battle
that's taking place around them.
(11:30):
By sharing biblical truthsabout selfishness and sin and
the importance of compassion, wecan awaken hearts to God's call
.
Whether it's through teachingor social media or personal
conversations, spreadingawareness equips others to
resist the hardness of the heartthat's taking over society.
(11:51):
So how are we going to work totransform society?
True change begins in the heart.
We've got to pray for our ownhearts to remain soft and for
God to move in the lives ofthose around us.
Ezekiel 36 26 gives us hope.
I will give you a new heart andput a new spirit in you.
(12:11):
I will remove from you yourheart of stone and give you a
heart of flesh.
Prayer is one of the mostpowerful weapons that we have in
combating the growing darknessof these times.
Pray for revival all over andmake sure that we're teaching
(12:35):
the next generation.
Proverbs 22 6 instructs us totrain up a child in the way he
should go, and when he's old hewill not depart from it.
If we don't instill godlyvalues in our own children, the
world will shape them into itsmold.
By teaching them about kindnessand integrity and the love of
Christ, we equip them to be alight for future generations.
And finally, we have to makesure that we don't shrink back
(12:58):
in fear or apathy.
Hebrews 10.23 reminds us.
Fear or apathy.
Hebrews 10.23 reminds us.
Let us hold unswervingly to thehope that we profess, for he
who promised is faithful.
The days are dark, but we arenot without hope.
We have to live with purpose,boldly proclaiming the gospel
(13:25):
and being faithful in themission God has given us.
By embodying all theseprinciples that I just talked
about, we not only resist thetide of selfishness and cruelty,
but also reflect on thetransformative power of God's
love in our lives.
If we truly want to change theworld, it starts with us, by
choosing to live differently, tolove radically and to shine
(13:46):
brightly in the midst ofdarkness.
Even in the midst of all thedarkness, there's incredible
stories of hope, proof that Godis still moving and working
through his people.
There's organizations andindividuals dedicated to
rescuing those trapped insuffering, whether it's victims
(14:08):
of human trafficking or evenabused animals.
They step in, they provide careand they give people a second
chance at life.
Take the International JusticeMission, for example.
They've helped thousands ofpeople escape modern-day slavery
.
One powerful story is that ofKumar.
He was enslaved in a brick kilnin India for years before IJM
(14:32):
intervened.
They rescued him and helped himrebuild his life.
And when disaster strikes, a lotof times we see people come
together in amazing ways.
They show selflessness andunity.
Now there's a tornado outbreakin 2023 in Kentucky.
Churches and volunteers acrossthe state stepped up.
(14:54):
They rebuilt homes, theydistributed food and offered
emotional and spiritual supportto people who lost everything.
That is the love of Christ inaction.
God's also working throughpeople who are raising awareness
and fighting for justice.
Christine Kane is a Christianadvocate.
(15:16):
She founded A21 Ministries.
It's an anti-trafficking oranti-human trafficking
organization, and it not onlyrescues victims, but it educates
communities and people toprevent further exploitation.
Her faith has fueled a globalmovement to bring freedom to the
(15:36):
oppressed.
Now we've all seen how God cantake a life heading down the
wrong path and completelytransform it.
I'm sure you have.
Look at Nicky Cruz.
He was a feared gang leader inNew York, but everything changed
when he encountered Jesusthrough an evangelist named
David Wilkerson.
(15:56):
That encounter led him tobecome a minister.
He shared the gospel withthousands and brought people out
of the same darkness that helived in once, and sometimes
it's the simplest acts ofkindness that make the biggest
difference.
In 2022, a police officer inArizona noticed a homeless man
(16:17):
struggling with torn shoes.
Instead of just offeringsympathy, he took off his own
boots and gave them to the man.
That's exactly what Jesus wastalking about in Matthew 25, 40.
Truly, I tell you, whatever youdid for one of the least of
these brothers and sisters ofmine, you did for me.
(16:39):
Now, these stories remind usthat, no matter how dark the
world may seem, god is still atwork.
His love is being poured outthrough people who choose to
reflect His light.
When we hear testimonies likethese, it encourages us to
resist the coldness of the worldand step up to be a part of
what God is doing right where weare.
(16:59):
So we have to live differently.
How can we push back againstthe darkness?
Let's think about some real,practical ways that we can fight
against the selfishness andcruelty that we see in the world
.
These aren't just ideas.
They're things that real peopleand organizations are already
(17:23):
doing to make a difference.
We need to regularly check ourown hearts and make sure our
actions and attitudes reflectChrist.
Let's take a look at Casey Diaz.
He was a gang leader living alife of violence, but everything
changed when he met Jesus insolitary confinement.
Now he speaks about redemptionand what a transformed life
(17:44):
really looks like, and one ofthe best ways to push back
against the darkness is toactively spread light.
Now you know, you've seen them.
Many small churches have startedthe blessing boxes right.
They're community pantrieswhere people can leave food and
toiletries for anybody in need.
Simple acts of generosity likethis make a huge impact, and
(18:09):
other initiatives like that havehelped fight food insecurity in
communities all over the world.
The choices that we make, wherewe shop, what we support
matters.
We need to support ethical andcompassionate businesses.
Thistle Farms is a greatexample.
(18:29):
This company employs and helpswomen recovering from
trafficking, addiction abuse,and it proves that a business
can be a force for healing.
When we support businesses thatalign with God's heart for
justice and compassion, we helpcreate lasting change.
(18:49):
So many people are hurtingphysically, emotionally,
spiritually.
We need to create spaces wherethey can find healing through
Christ.
Celebrate Recovery is one ofthose spaces.
It's a Christian-basedaddiction recovery program that
(19:09):
has helped thousands overcomestruggles through biblical
principles.
My own church has started aCelebrate Recovery group.
I can't wait to see the livesthat will be changed through it
and if you'd like to be a partof that, find a Celebrate
Recovery in your local area.
And if you can't find one, goto buymeacoffeecom.
(19:31):
Slash renewedmindsets.
I'll let you donate to mychurch and I'll make sure that
you get credit for that.
Sorry for the plug, butCelebrate Recovery is really
awesome.
We need to remember to pray forpeople who are suffering.
It's not just something that wedo.
Prayer is powerful.
In 2024, churches around theworld united in prayer for
(19:56):
persecuted Christians inAfghanistan.
That movement of prayer broughtglobal attention to their
suffering and led to moreadvocacy and action on their
behalf.
Never underestimate what Godcan do when his people pray.
Now we said this earlier If wewant a better future, we've got
(20:17):
to invest in the next generation.
Proverbs 22.6 reminds us againtrain up a child in the way he
should go, and when he's olderhe will not depart from it.
Programs like Character Countshave integrated biblical values
like integrity, responsibilityand kindness into school
curriculums.
It shapes young hearts for good, and we need to be intentional
(20:41):
about teaching children how towalk in truth, as well as us
living with boldness and purpose.
This isn't time for fear orhesitation.
People, this is the end times.
Hebrews 10.23 calls us to standfirm.
Let us hold unswervingly to thehope we profess, for he who
(21:06):
promised is faithful.
Look at Nick Vujic.
He was born without arms orlegs, yet he's traveled the
world boldly, preaching thegospel and showing millions that
God's strength is made perfectin our weakness.
We're called to live with thatsame courage.
People, you and I, are calledto live with that same courage
(21:30):
and purpose.
It starts with us.
If we really want to change theworld, it begins with the
choices that we make every day,when we choose to love radically
, to serve selflessly and standboldly for Christ, we push back
against the darkness.
The world may seem cold, butwe're called to shine the light
(21:52):
of Jesus now more than ever.
The world may be growing colder, but we don't have to Stay
close to the warmth of God'spresence, abide in His love and
share it with those around you.
I want to thank you for joiningme today on Renewed Mindsets.
(22:14):
If this message blessed, you,share it with someone who needs
encouragement.
Until next time, stay strong infaith and keep your heart
burning for the Lord.
That's all for today, but I'llbe back with more unfiltered
biblical truth and undeniableprophecy.
The time to wake up is now.
(22:34):
If today's episode challengedyou, don't keep it to yourself.
Tell someone.
Please.
Text them a link.
Share the truth while there'sstill time.
Visit renewedmindsetscom tostay connected and to listen to
past episodes, and check out ourmerch at renewedmindsetsstore.
Jesus is coming soon.
(22:57):
Stay watchful, stay holy, stayrenewed Until next week.
I'm Rick.
Be an encourager, not adiscourager.
I love you, see ya.
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