Hi Brian,

Great win today! The word for this week is "happy"! We'll be looking at two verses today. John 13:17 and 1 Peter 4:14:

17 If you know these things, happy are you if you do them.

14 If you be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are you; for the spirit of glory and of God rests upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

"Happy" here is the Greek word "makarios". Strong's Concordance says this: supremely blessed, fortunate, well off. Ephesians 1:3 tells us this about the blessings that come from God:

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

HE has already blessed us, but in order to walk in and appropriate those blessings, there is something that WE must do! When we read the surrounding verses in John 13, we can see that Jesus was referring to NOT thinking more highly of ourselves, but of submitting to one another and  loving one another with a selfless kind of love. 1 Peter 4:14 tells us that we will be greatly blessed when we suffer persecution (ridicule, gossip, rumors and innuendos). When other people misunderstand our motives for wanting them to be saved, they may spread lies about us. I have had that happen to me. It can hurt if those doing the persecuting are family members of friends. But the rewards from God, or the blessings, are so much greater! As we continue to walk in love with these people, our attitude will go along way in winning them over to HIM! I pray that 2015 will find you with many opportunities to share Jesus with people in every area of your life! I also pray for a supernatural response from them! I also pray that 2015 will be the very best, blessed, and prosperous year yet for you and your beautiful family! Here is Chris Tomlin with "Happy Song":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "holy"! We'll be looking at Luke 1:35:

35 And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God.

This is the Greek word "hagios". Strong's Concordance says: sacred,  blameless, consecrated. The Dictionary definition of "consecrated" is to declare or set apart as sacred. We like to say it this way: "Set apart FROM the world, and set apart UNTO God!"  Peter 1:16 says this:

16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

Jesus kept Himself separated from the world's way of thinking, speaking and acting. He kept Himself separated unto God the Father by spending time in His presence, off by himself, away from the crowd. When Jesus DID come back among the people, they KNEW that He had been with God! We each need to take the time that is necessary to get into that place of fellowship with Him that causes the things of God to become more important and the Word of God to become more real! We were designed by God to BE that way! Here is another Hillsong take on a familiar Christmas song, "O Holy Night", because that WAS a night set apart for God's purposes! 

Love, Shalom and Merry Christmas from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian,

The word for this week will again be "light". We'll be looking at a different Greek word found in 2 Corinthians 4:4 & 6:

 4 In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

In verse 4 and the last part of verse 6, the Greek word is "photismos". Both Strong's Concordance and Thayer's Greek Lexicon say: enlightenment, illumination. As born again believers, we have the ability to come to know and understand the Word of God. Unbelievers do not! Look at 1 Corinthians 2:14:

14 But the natural, nonspiritual man does not accept or welcome or admit into his heart the gifts and teachings and revelations of the Spirit of God, for they are folly (meaningless nonsense) to him; and he is incapable of knowing them [of progressively recognizing, understanding, and becoming better acquainted with them] because they are spiritually discerned and estimated and appreciated.

WE have the Holy Spirit living in us, the greatest Teacher! We CAN, and SHOULD, 'progressively recognize, understand and become better acquainted with' the promises in the Word of God! As our knowledge and understanding of the Word grows, so does our faith IN the Word! We will find that we are able to stand strong in any and every situation, immoveable, because His Word will be so real! As you and Kristine continue to be diligent in the Word, you will be passing a legacy of faith to your girls that will enable THEM to be even stronger in the Word than you are! Like Abraham, God is trusting you to teach your children (Genesis 18:19). It is already evident that you are! I love how precious and unique they each are! Wonderful blessings from God! Here is another Christmas song from Hillsong called "The Reason Why":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

What an exciting game! The word for this week is "light". We'll be looking at these two examples: John 8:12 and John 12:36:

12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that follows me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. KJV

36 While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from them. KJV

These are both the Greek word "phos". Strong's Concordance says to shine or to make manifest. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: anything emitting light. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: to give light. "Life" in the first verse is the Greek Word "zoe", which is the absolute fullness of life which God has within Himself. This "life" that is in us, John 1:4 says, is the "light" of men! God's life in a person can be seen. We look different! When we're in fellowship with Him, we shine! People like to be in our presence! They are drawn to us! That's how God intended for it to be. After all, we ARE His children, and children reflect their parents! The result of the love and care that you and Kristine have poured into your girls is revealed in the love and joy that pours out of them! They are loved and it shows! THAT'S the "light" that sets them apart from other kids. We, as "children of light", are also a reflection of our Heavenly Father. Spending time in His presence causes that light to shine brighter. People will KNOW that "we have been with Jesus" (Acts 4:13). I am praying that the light that is in you and all of your girls will so affect everyone you know that they will ALL be drawn to Jesus! Have a most blessed week! Here is Hillsong with "Children of the Light":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

Great win today! The word for this week is "heritage". There a few different words translated heritage in the Bible. Today we'll be looking at the one found in Psalms 127:3 and Isaiah 54:17:

3 Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. KJV

17 No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord. KJV

This is the Hebrew word "nachalah". Strong's Concordance says: something inherited; heirloom, estate, portion. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon adds this: possession, property. The Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament also adds: giving or receiving property which is part of a permanent possession and as a result of succession. As children of God, we HAVE a "heritage"! These are Old Covenant promises, and we know from Hebrews 8:6 that our New Covenant is better!

 6 But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises. NKJV

From the two verses above we know that part of our inheritance includes having children and having God's protection! When a born again husband and wife desire children, they can COUNT on it being in line with God's will and part of their promised inheritance! They can stand on 1 John 5:14-15 and EXPECT to have them! 

14 And this is the confidence (the assurance, the privilege of boldness) which we have in Him: [we are sure] that if we ask anything (make any request) according to His will (in agreement with His own plan), He listens to and hears us. 15 And if (since) we [positively] know that He listens to us in whatever we ask, we also know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that we have [granted us as our present possessions] the requests made of Him. AMP

You and Kristine have been abundantly blessed in THIS part of your heritage in the Lord! I believe, as I was praying over this, that you are going to be in position to minister to a couple, or couples, about this very thing! The other part of your heritage, involving protection from the attacks of the enemy, is just as true and settled as the first one! You can count on it! There is so much more involved in what we have inherited from the Lord! After all, we ARE joint, equal heirs with Jesus (Romans 8:17)! Everything that belongs to Him also belongs to us! THAT is for another blog! I pray that you have a wonderful, blessed, happy and very prosperous week! Here is a new Christmas song from Hillsong Worship called "Peace Has Come":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

THAT was a fun game to watch! So close! The word for this week is "persevere". The two verses we'll be looking at are both from the Amplified Bible:

1 Timothy 4:16 Look well to yourself [to your own personality] and to [your] teaching; persevere in these things [hold to them], for by so doing you will save both yourself and those who hear you. AMP

2 Timothy 2:10 Therefore I [am ready to] persevere and stand my ground with patience and endure everything for the sake of the elect [God's chosen], so that they too may obtain [the] salvation which is in Christ Jesus, with [the reward of] eternal glory. AMP

In the first verse it is the Greek word "epimeno". Strong's Concordance says: to stay over, to remain. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: still to abide. Vine's Expository Dictionary adds: to continue long. In the second verse it is the Greek word "hupomeno". Strong's Concordance says: to stay under; to undergo; have fortitude. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: to bear bravely and calmly. The Theological Dictionary says: to stand firm and Vine's Expository Dictionary adds: to bear up courageously. The dictionary definition of perseverance is: steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success. The world's idea of perseverance is to hold on for dear life when things get tough. The Bible idea is to hold on to HIM and the promises in His Word. A vital part of THIS perseverance is faith. We know that faith comes by hearing (and hearing  and hearing) the Word of God (Romans 10:17). When we know what the Word promises concerning each situation we face, we can then cast the care of that situation on Him and simply live in the expectation of the victory (1 Peter 5:7)! This doesn't make sense to those who are not born again or those Christians who don't know the Word. This is how we can live our lives before them in the peace, joy and confidence that will cause THEM to ask US about that hope in us (1 Peter 3:15)! I am fully expecting that 2015 is going to be the best year yet for your family! I am blessed to be a part of it! We love you all so much! Here is Hillsong Live with "Thank You" in honor of this week's Holiday! Have a wonderful and very blessed Thanksgiving! 

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "perform". We've had this word before from the New Testament. Today we'll be looking at the Old Testament and two different Hebrew words. The verses we'll be looking at are Jeremiah 1:12 and Jeremiah 11:5. 

Jeremiah 1:12 Then said the Lord unto me, Thou hast well seen: for I will hasten my word to perform it. KJV

Jeremiah 11:5 That I may perform the oath which I have sworn unto your fathers, to give them a land flowing with milk and honey, as it is this day. Then answered I, and said, So be it, O Lord. KJV

The first verse contains the Hebrew word "`asah". Strong's Concordance says: to do or make in the widest sense. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon adds: to fashion; to accomplish; to produce; to act with effect; to attend to; to put in order; to bring about; to bring to pass. When we stand on God's Word, He will see to it that it comes to pass! The Amplified Bible accurately defines "hasten":

12 Then said the Lord to me, You have seen well, for I am alert and active, watching over My word to perform it. AMP

OUR part is to find out what the Word of God has to say about each and every situation that we face. When we know what He has said about it, then we can KNOW that HE will see to it that it happens! What great confidence that brings! Jeremiah 11:5 contains the Hebrew word "quwm" for "perform". Strong's Concordance says this: to rise. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon adds: to stand; to be powerful; to come on the scene; to maintain oneself; to fulfill; to establish; to carry out. He desires to carry out or fulfill every promise He has made to us, but there are sometimes conditions to be met. We see this here if we look at verse 4 also. Here it is from the Amplified Bible:

4 Which I commanded your fathers at the time that I brought them out of the land of Egypt, from the iron furnace, saying, Listen to My voice and do according to all that I command you. So will you be My people, and I will be your God, 5 That I may perform the oath which I swore to your fathers, to give them a land flowing with milk and honey, as it is this day. Then I answered, Amen (so be it), O Lord. AMP

I like this also from the Message Bible:

 4 The terms are clear. I made them plain to your ancestors when I delivered them from Egypt, out of the iron furnace of suffering. "'Obey what I tell you. Do exactly what I command you. Your obedience will close the deal. You'll be mine and I'll be yours. 5 This will provide the conditions in which I will be able to do what I promised your ancestors: to give them a fertile and lush land. And, as you know, that's what I did.'" "Yes, God," I replied. "That's true." THE MESSAGE

One example of this is 1 John 1:9 where we are promised that IF we confess our sin, HE will forgive our sin AND cleanse us from ALL unrighteousness. Another great example is found in John 15:7:

7 If you live in Me [abide vitally united to Me] and My words remain in you and continue to live in your hearts, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you. AMP

So, we can have complete confidence that when we stand on His Word AND when we obey His Word, HE will do everything necessary to carry it out! Whatever you and Kristine may face concerning your life, your family, your jobs, your friends or anything else that concerns you, HE has a promise that covers it! Have a great and very blessed week! Here is Chris Tomlin and Kari Jobe with "Revelation Song":

Worthy is the, Lamb who was slain 
Holy, Holy, is He 
Sing a new song, to him who sits on 
Heaven's mercy seat 
[2X] 

Holy, Holy, Holy 
Is the Lord God Almighty 
Who was, and is, and is to come 
With all creation I sing 
Praise to the King of Kings 
You are my everything 
And I will adore You 

Clothed in rainbows, of living color 
Flashes of lightning, rolls of thunder 
Blessing and honor, strength and glory and power be 
to You the only wise King 

Holy, Holy, Holy 
Is the Lord God Almighty 
Who was, and is, and is to come 
With all creation I sing 
Praise to the King of Kings 
You are my everything 
And I will adore You 

Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder 
At the mention of your name 
Jesus your name is power 
Breath, and living water 
Such a marvelous mystery 
Yeah... 

Holy, Holy, Holy 
Is the Lord God Almighty 
Who was, and is, and is to come, yeah 
With all creation I sing 
Praise to the King of Kings 
You are my everything 
And I will adore You 
[3X]

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian! 

The word for this week is "inspiration"! We find it in two portions of Scriptures, one from the Old Testament and one from the New. 

Job 32:8 But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty gives them understanding. KJV

2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. KJV

In Job we have the Hebrew word "neshamah", Strong's Concordance says: a puff; vital breath; divine inspiration and intellect. Brown-Driver-Briggs adds: the breath of God. In 2 Timothy we have the Greek word "theopneustos". Strong's Concordance says: divinely breathed in. The definitions are very similar! There are many natural things that can inspire us to work harder, do better, be nicer, give more, love more and so on. However, I believe that it is only the divine inspiration that comes directly from the heart of God that will cause us to be able to stick to something until we fully accomplish what we are supposed to accomplish! Jerry O'Dell once made a comment that I have never forgotten! He said this: "When we want what God wants, for the same reason He wants it, then we cannot fail!" I LOVE that! We KNOW from His Word that He desires for us to prosper and be well:

3 John 2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou may prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospers. KJV

He desires that we walk in love:

 Ephesians 5:1 THEREFORE BE imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father]. 2 And walk in love, [esteeming and delighting in one another] as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a slain offering and sacrifice to God [for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance.AMP

He desires that we operate in HIS strength:

Philippians 4:13 I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency]. AMP

He also desires that we enjoy the fullness of HIS life that is in us:

John 10:10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows). AMP

When we desire these things, and others promised in the Word, for the same reason that God desires them, which is that we will be bright lights in and to the world, representing Who HE is to them, so that they will desire to know HIM, then we will not fail to walk in them! My prayer for you is that you will continue to grow in knowledge, understanding and love for the Word of God so that His "inspiration" will be strong in you and His life and light will continue to be seen in you! Here is Hillsong with "I Surrender":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

Great win today! The word for this week was a puzzler to me! I heard the word "rifle" as I was praying and that word was nowhere in the Bible. When I started looking for words in the Concordance that sounded like it, I found this in Zechariah 14:2:

2 For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city. KJV

"Rifled" here is the Hebrew word "shacac". Strong's Concordance says: to plunder. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon adds: to spoil.  In fact, the four other times this Hebrew word is found it is translated "spoil or spoiled".  The situation described here in Zechariah takes place after the Rapture, or catching away, of the church. These are some of the things that will occur during the time of the Tribulation. All of the nations will come against Israel. Verses 3-5 tell us what else will happen at the end of this seven year time period:

3 Then shall the Lord go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle. 4 And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south. 5 And ye shall flee to the valley of the mountains; for the valley of the mountains shall reach unto Azal: yea, ye shall flee, like as ye fled from before the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah: and the Lord my God shall come, and all the saints with thee. KJV

That last line, "all the saints with thee" refers to all of us who will be in Heaven during the Tribulation. When it's all over, Jesus Himself will descend from Heaven, with US, and He will begin His 1000 year reign from Jerusalem. THAT will be an awesome time on the earth! The horrible things that will occur during the Tribulation have already begun to happen, on a much smaller scale, all over the world. There already are women and children being sold into slavery, Christians and Jews murdered for their faith, houses and properties being plundered, or "rifled", natural disasters and catastrophic events occurring. The Bible tells us that these are just the beginnings of the "birth pangs" that signal the time of the second coming of Jesus (Matthew 24:6-8). The great good news for US is that we WON'T be here to witness the fullness of this! I Thessalonians 4:16-18 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 tell of the catching away of the church. In the meantime, we, walking in the authority of the Name of Jesus and the Word of God, can and will walk in the supernatural protection, provision and safety of Psalm 91! No "rifling" occurring in OUR lives and families! Thank You Jesus! Here is Hillsong with "Mighty To Save":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "strife". I would rather cover a more positive and happy word, but avoiding strife is vital to staying in position to receive God's very best! Here are two examples for strife from the New Testament:

Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. KJV

James 3:14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descends not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. KJV

This is the Greek word "eritheia". Strong's Exhaustive Concordance says: intrigue; faction. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds this: a desire to put oneself forward; a partisan and factious spirit. A dictionary definition of "faction" is 1) dissension and 2) a small party within a larger group that is often contentious and self-seeking. This has happened in churches, workplaces and in families. James 3 above tells us that this attitude is devilish. It is certainly one of his many tactics. He would love nothing better than to divide and conquer God's people in any way possible! When we recognize the danger of strife, we can avoid it at all costs in our families by choosing always to believe the best of each other and by refusing to give in to selfishness! This CAN be hard on our flesh, but SO worth the effort to keep the peace! As far as dealing with others, we will need to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit about when to remove ourselves from the situation and when to stay and continue to BE the Light they need to see. We all have emotions and the nature of the flesh to deal with simply because we are human beings! When we make LOVE our priority, we will see strife eliminated! I have NEVER experienced strife in your home! You and Kristine and your girls have always made us feel so welcome and loved! I so enjoy being in THAT atmosphere! I am going to add prayer against strife in your family, work, friends and church to my prayer list for you both! I desire that you continue to be BLESSED beyond measure and I KNOW that Jesus does! Here is an older song from Hillsong called "All of My Days":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "riches". There are two Greek words translated "riches" in the New Testament. The first on is found in Mark 10:23:

23 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! 

This one is the Greek word "chrema".  Strong's Concordance says this: something useful or needed, wealth. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds this: a thing, matter, event, business, specifically money. The Theological Dictionary adds this: objects of value, capital. The key word in this verse that changes "riches" from a blessing to a problem is the word "have". One of the meanings of this Greek word "echo" is to hold fast, to hold on, to cling to, according to Vine's Expository Dictionary. The wonderful blessings of God in our lives include wealth and possessions, but if we cling to these, rather than to HIM, then the riches become an idol in our lives and they can get our eyes, and our faith, off of HIM and onto ourselves! The second "riches" in the New Testament is found in these two verses. Ephesians 1:18 and Philippians 4:19:

18 By having the eyes of your heart flooded with light, so that you can know and understand the hope to which He has called you, and how rich is His glorious inheritance in the saints (His set-apart ones), AMP

19 And my God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. AMP

This is the Greek word "ploutos". Strong's Concordance says: wealth, money, possessions, abundance. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: abundance of external possessions, fullness, plenitude (the condition of being full or complete). THESE are the riches or the wealth that comes from trusting in the God of the Bible and doing things HIS way! We KNOW where they came from,  and we put our trust completely in HIM, and in His Word, rather than in our own ability alone. This type of "riches" is what Proverbs 10:22 is speaking of:

22 The blessing of the Lord — it makes [truly] rich, and He adds no sorrow with it [neither does toiling increase it]. AMP

I know that whatever natural "riches" that you and your family have came about because of your trust in God which gives you great favor, and your very hard work, consistency and integrity! My prayer for you is that your blessings will continue to MULTIPLY as you keep God and His Word as your #1 priority! Riches will never HAVE you! Here is an older song from Hillsong that I have been singing all day! It's called "Better Than Life":

"Better Than Life"

Better than the riches of this world Better than the sound of my friends voices
Better than the biggest dreams in my heart and that's just the start
Better than getting what I say I need Better than living the life that I wan't to
Better than the love anyone could give
Your love is

You hold me now in Your arms and never let me go

And You oh Lord made the sunshine and the moonlight in the nightsky
You give me breath and all Your love
I give my heart to You
Because I can't stop falling in love with You
I'll never stop falling in love with You

Better than the riches of this world Better than the sound of my friends voices

Better than the biggest dreams in my heart and that's just the start
Better than getting what I say I need Better than living the life that I wan't to
Better than the love anyone could give
Your love is

You hold me now in Your arms and never let me go

And You oh Lord made the sunshine and the moonlight in the nightsky
You give me breath and all Your love
I give my heart to You
Because I can't stop falling in love with You
I'll never stop falling in love with You

You hold me now in Your arms and never let me go
You hold me now in Your arms and never let me go

And You oh Lord made the sunshine and the moonlight in the night sky
You give me breath and all Your love
I give my heart to You
Because I can't stop falling in love with You
I'll never stop falling in love with You

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

I am sorry you had to see such a bad game today! The Vikings NEED the word for this week! It is "overcome". In the Old Testament, we'll be looking at Numbers 13:30:

30 And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it KJV

This instance was after Moses had sent the 12 spies in order to have them come back and encourage the people concerning the wonderful things they saw in this most productive land! Instead, some allowed fear to enter in and lost sight of the TRUTH that it was only through their God that they had arrived at where they were in the first place! They said it was too much and it couldn't be done! Joshua and Caleb held a different, more Godly perspective! "Overcome" here is the Hebrew word "yakol". Strong's Concordance says this: to be able. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon adds this: to prevail; to endure; to have power; to accomplish; to have strength; to be a victor. In the New Testament, we'll be looking at these three verses:

John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. KJV

1 John 2:14 I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. KJV

1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. KJV

"Overcome" in all three of these instances is the Greek word "nikao". Strong's Concordance says: to subdue. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds this:  to conquer; to carry off the victory; to come off victorious. The Theological Wordbook of the New Testament adds this: This denotes victory; supremacy; success. There is NO failure when we do things God's way, and in His timing, and with His strength, wisdom and ability! We CAN do ALL things, through HIM (Philippians 4:13). Here is an older song by Hillsong United called "Take Heart":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian! 

The word for this week is "believe". That's another word that I am surprised we haven't had yet! It is found a few times in the Old Testament, but many, many times in the New Testament. It is the same Greek word for most of them. We'll be looking at these: 

Mark 9:23 Jesus said to him, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes. NKJV

Mark 11:23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.  24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. NKJV

John 11:40 Jesus said to her, "Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?" NKJV

John 20:30 And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name. NKJV

"Believe" in each of these verses is the Greek word "pisteuo". Strong's Concordance says this: to have faith in; to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to Christ). Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds this: to be persuaded of; place confidence in. The Theological Dictionary of the New Testament adds: to trust, also to obey. Finally, Vine's Expository Dictionary adds: reliance upon, not mere credence. This belief is stronger than simply agreeing that it's so, but involves being convinced. The more that we prayerfully study the Word of God, the stronger our "belief" in it will be! THEN we will begin to see some immediate answers to prayer and manifestations of what we "believe"! I really love how much clearer the Word is to me now than when I first began to study it. Knowledge comes layer, built upon layer! POWERFUL! Here is a new song from Hillsong Worship called "This I Believe (The Creed)":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian! 

It was SO good to see you and your family yesterday, AND for the Vikings to win! The word for this week is "transformed". It's found in two places in the New Testament. 

Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. KJV

2 Corinthians 11:14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. KJV

These are two different Greek words and the difference is very important to us! In Romans it is the Greek word "metamorphoo". Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: to change to another form. The moment we receive Jesus as Lord and Savior, the Spirit of God recreates our human spirit into the image of God (2 Corinthians 5:17). When we use the Word of God to renew our minds, our thinking is changed so that we also think like Him! That is the ONLY way we can consistently act like Him! The Theological Dictionary of the New Testament adds this (I am pasting it in exactly here): This is not mystical deification but a re-attainment of the divine likeness. It does not take place by rituals but by the ministry of the Spirit. It is not for an elite few but for all Christians. It is not just a hope for the future (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:44 ff.) but begins already with the coming of the Spirit as a deposit. It carries with it an imperative (Romans 12:2). Set in the new aeon, Christians must reshape their conduct in accordance with it. This takes place as their minds and wills are renewed by the Spirit. They are thus to become what they are.
(from Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, abridged edition, Copyright © 1985 by William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company. All rights reserved.)

I LOVE this! When we are faithful to put God's Word in, He is faithful to use that Word and cause it to become so real to us that our own thoughts line up perfectly with His! In 2 Corinthians 11 the word is the Greek word "metaschematizo". Strong's Concordance says: to transfigure or disguise. The Theological Dictionary here says: to change the appearance of. This is NOT a changing to another form, but the "appearance" of another form (like a mirage!). The devil and and his "minions" can "APPEAR" to be something other that what they are, but they can never BE something other than what they are! WE can! Thank You, Jesus! Keep putting the Word of God into your heart and the Spirit of God will transform YOU from the inside out, more and more into His image every day! Here is Hillsong Live with "King Of Heaven":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "above". There are several different Greek words translated "above" in the New testament, so I'm sure we'll have to look at this word again sometime. The one we're looking at this week is found only one time. Ephesians 3:20-21:

20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. KJV

This is the Greek word "huperekperissou". It's a compound word made up of three Greek words. The first is "huper", which means: super, over, beyond, according to Thayer's Greek Lexicon. The second is "ek", which means: from out of, forth from, also according to Thayer's. The third is "perissos". Thayer's says this: exceeding some number or measure or rank or need; over and above; more than is necessary; superadded; superior; extraordinary; surpassing; uncommon. Taken all together, Thayer's Greek Lexicon says of huperekperissou: superabundantly; beyond measure; exceedingly. The Amplified Bible says this for Ephesians 3:20-21:

20 Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams] —  21 To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen (so be it). AMP

So, as you and Kristine continue to dream and plan for your future, and that of your family, remember that NO dream is too big for the God who loves you and to Whom you belong! As we often hear at The Spoken Word Church, God is 100% able and at least 100% willing! Start making those dreams a little bigger and imagining even bigger and better things! He is waiting on us to really "get it" and to go after HIM, and all that He has for us! Can't wait to see you and your family again next weekend! Have a great and very blessed week! Here is Newsboys with "God's Not Dead":

"God's Not Dead (Like A Lion)"

Let love explode and bring the dead to life
A love so bold to see a revolution somehow

Let love explode and bring the dead to life
A love so bold to bring a revolution somehow

Now I'm lost in Your freedom
In this world I'll overcome

[2x]
My God's not dead
He's surely alive
He's living on the inside
Roaring like a lion

Roaring, He's roaring, roaring like a lion

Let hope arise and make the darkness hide
My faith is dead I need resurrection somehow

Now I'm lost in Your freedom
In this world I'll overcome

[2x]
My God's not dead
He's surely alive
He's living on the inside
Roaring like a lion

Roaring, He's roaring, roaring like a lion
He's roaring, He's roaring

[3x]
Let heaven roar
And fire fall
Come shake the ground
With the sound
Of revival

[4x]
My God's not dead
He's surely alive
He's living on the inside
Roaring like a lion

He's roaring, He's roaring, He's roaring like a lion [2x]

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "wait". Look at Isaiah 40:31:

31 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. KJV

This is the Hebrew word "qavah " (kaw-vaw'). According to Strong's Concordance, this is a primitive root word that means: to bind together, to collect, to expect. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon adds: to look for, to hope, to look eagerly for, to linger for. The Theological Word Book of the Old Testament says: to look for with eager anticipation, to wait with steadfast endurance and patient and confident hope. This type of expectation and confident hope can only come by faith in the Word of God, and in the GOD of the WORD! Romans 10:17 tells us this:

17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. KJV

Spending time in that "secret place" of Psalm 91, where we are aware of His presence through prayer, praise & worship, study & meditation of the Word, and intimate fellowship with HIM actually IS "waiting" on the Lord! When we do this, not only will we be filled with faith and confidence in the Word and in His faithfulness, but Isaiah 40:31 promises us that we will be renewed in our physical body and also in our souls (mind, emotions and will). I LOVE how the plans and purposes of God affect every area of our lives for GOOD! He IS a GOOD God! Here is Isaiah 40:31 from the Amplified Bible:

31 But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift their wings and mount up [close to God] as eagles [mount up to the sun]; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint or become tired.  AMP

Here is Hillsong United with "Stay and Wait":

Who spoke the Earth and sky to form
Who sets the sun and calls the dawn
Who breathed me out of dust to life
The will to trust or run and hide

I will stay should the world by me fold
Lift up your name as the darkness falls
I will wait and hold fast to your word
Heart on Your heart and my eyes on You

Who loved me through my rebel way
Who chose to carry all my shame
Who breaths in me with endless life
The king of glory Jesus Christ

I will stay should the world by me fold
Lift up your name as the darkness falls
I will wait and hold fast to your word
Heart on Your heart and my eyes on You

God of wonder and God of grace
Let my soul stand always to praise You
Fix my eyes on Your perfect way
And I'll never look back

I will stay should the world by me fold
Lift up your name as the darkness falls
I will wait and hold fast to your word
Heart on Your heart and my eyes on You

Who lifts the poor and heals the blind
Who trampled death for all mankind
Who stands for all with arms stretched wide
My King forever Jesus Christ

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian!

Great Vikings win today! The word for this week is "shaken". It is found in a few places in the New Testament. The one we're looking at today is found in 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2:

1 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. KJV

This is the Greek "saleuo". Strong's Concordance says : to waver, rock, agitate, topple or destroy; also to disturb, to incite. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: to overthrow, to cast down from one's secure and happy state. Although these specific verses are speaking about believers being shaken or unsettled in their faith because some were saying that the Rapture of the Church had already taken place, God does not  want us to be shaken or unsettled by anything that happens in this world, or in our personal lives. Being calm and at peace in the face of serious situations and circumstances is an attitude that will draw hurting people to you to find out how you do it! Calm and steady is definitely a character trait that YOU possess in abundance! That's one of the reasons that Kristine is so free to be herself! You are providing a wonderful and very healthy environment for your girls to grow into the women of God that HE intends for them to be! My prayer for you is that you will continue to abound in this gift and that if you ever find yourself at the end of YOUR ability in that area, you will trust in Holy Spirit to pick you up as your Standby (John 14:16 AMP)! You are such a blessing to know and we love and appreciate you so much! I wanted to use Hillsong Worship's new song "Depths" because it is SO peaceful, but it hasn't been released on You Tube yet, so here is another new song called "Mountain":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!

Hi Brian! 

I hope you had a wonderful time with your family! The word for this week is "salt" again, because we didn't cover all of the aspects of it the first time. We find it in these two portions of Scripture: Mark 9:50 and Matthew 5:13:

50 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another. KJV

13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. KJV

This is the Greek word "halas". Strong's Concordance says: prudence. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds this: Salt with which food in seasoned; used to fertilize arable land; a symbol of lasting accord; wisdom and grace exhibited in speech. The Theological Dictionary of the New Testament adds: denoted moral worth. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary says of prudence (from Strong's definition): the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason; sagacity or shrewdness in the management of affairs; skill and good judgment in the use of resources; caution and circumspection as to danger or risk. These are to be some of the most obvious attributes of born again believers. I know that neither you nor Kristine would have become so successful in your chosen careers without these attributes being active and noticed! As you continue to honor God in your life and family, HE will continue to honor you and your family with success and favor! Also, God loves, honors, and uses your distinct and different "savour" (flavor, smell, taste, distinctive quality). We are NOT to be clones of each other. Instead, He gave each of us unique and interesting personalities, interests, gifts, talents and abilities so that we can use that "spice" of our lives to reach others with the Truth of the Gospel! I love how you enjoy your life and family, and I love that you are reaching people I will never reach! God is SO good! Here is Hillsong Young and Free with another new song called "Close":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys! 

Hi Brian!

The word for this week is "flame". We'll be looking at three verses today. The first two are found in Revelation 1:14 and Revelation 2:18:

Revelation 1:14 His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; KJV

Revelation 2:18 And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; KJV

This is the Greek word "phlox". Strong's Concordance says: a flash or flame; a blaze. Vine's Expository Dictionary adds: to shine. Notice that these verses are speaking of Jesus and what His presence looks like! By His Spirit, Jesus lives in every born again believer! So do WE look like that? Look at Hebrews 1:7:

7 And of the angels he says, Who makes his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. KJV

2 Corinthians 5:17-18 says this:

17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; KJV

So all born again believers are ministers! He, when we spend time in His presence by being in the Word and in fellowship with Him, will make each one of us a flame of HIS fire! They will say of us, as they said of Peter and John in Acts 4:13, that we have been with Jesus! That is the very best testimony that we can have. It is also the most important thing that our children/grandchildren can see in us! Your children already want to be like you and Kristine! Seeing Jesus in you causes them to want more of Him, too! Keep letting YOUR light shine and all of those around you will begin to ask you about that "flame" they see! Here is Hillsong Young and Free with "Embers":

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!