Calvary Chapel of Milwaukee

🔥 Rebellion: A Lesson from Saul 🔥 📜 Samuel's wisdom echoes through verse 22, underscoring that obedience surpasses sacrifice. But it's Samuel's next moves that hold brilliance. He unravels the essence of the Holy Spirit for us, unveiling the depths within. 🔍 In 1 Samuel 15:23, Samuel dissects Saul's action and labels it "rebellion," equating it to the gravity of witchcraft. He's not merely pointing out disobedience or an inadvertent error. It's more profound – a deliberate defiance, a willful choice to stray from the Divine direction. 🚫 Rebellion isn't a minor misstep; it's a soulful choice to diverge from the path set before us. #PowerOfObedience #SamuelsWisdom #UnveilingTruth #DeeperUnderstanding #ChoosingTheDivinePath 1 Samuel 15:22 "To Obey is Better than Sacrifice" https://youtu.be/CHhx8FKITSs Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

🙌 The Power of God's Word: Drawing Near to God 🙌 🏛️ When Sunday congregates us as one, what does God desire from our collective body? It's about unity, about drawing near to Him as a united front. The words spoken are unaltered, untamed – a sacred message that cannot be compromised. God's Word remains pure and unchanging. 📖 It's more than routine, more than flipping pages and skimming through verses. It's about diving into the essence, absorbing it. We chew on it, digesting the profound meanings. This is the path to internalization, to the Word touching our very souls. As we approach, we pray, opening our hearts for God's Word to stir us, guiding us closer to His presence. #UnityInWorship #GodsSacredWord #HeartfeltApproach #DrawNearToGod #WordTransformation 1 Samuel 15:22 "To Obey is Better than Sacrifice" https://youtu.be/CHhx8FKITSs Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

🌄 Lessons in the Wilderness: Moses' Transformation 🌄 🗺️ Moses, the knowledgeable figure, finds himself guided to the desert's solitude by God's hand. For 40 years, a different reality unfolds – a reality where Moses learns a profound truth. The man who once held it all is humbled, his knowledge set aside. God's message? "You are not defined by your former stature; instead, I want you to shepherd and care for my people." 🌾 Those years in the wilderness engrain a valuable lesson: humility. Moses, once something grand in Egypt, becomes a simple shepherd. This transformation couldn't have been attained through Egypt's vast libraries. It's in the quietude that Moses grasps his role – a servant, a shepherd. And in the following 40 years, God uses this humble man, an instrument of remarkable impact. #MosesJourney #WildernessWisdom #HumilityLessons #ServantHeart #TransformationTale 1 Samuel 15:22 "To Obey is Better than Sacrifice" https://youtu.be/CHhx8FKITSs Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

🛑 Beyond the Surface: True Worship and Obedience 🛑 🙌 Let's pause and reflect. How often do we attend church on Sundays merely to check a box, without genuinely seeking the Lord's presence, without true worship or exaltation? It's a crucial realization. External actions alone might fulfill the formality of a sacrifice. The analogy is clear – present the cow, and it's done. Similarly, we can sit in church, recite the words, and feel content. But herein lies the question: Where's your heart in this? Is it a superficial act? 🎶 Singing along to lyrics on a screen is one thing, but where's the resonance within you? This is where personal obedience stands out. Obedience goes beyond mere rituals; it's deeply personal. Jesus himself emphasizes this profound connection. In our ongoing study, we'll explore how obedience truly reflects love. #TrueWorship #HeartAndObedience #PersonalConnection #BeyondRituals #LoveThroughObedience 1 Samuel 15:22 "To Obey is Better than Sacrifice" https://youtu.be/CHhx8FKITSs Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

📖 Obedience: Love in Action, as Defined by Jesus 📖 🌟 Jesus himself unveils the essence of obedience, labeling it as a tangible expression of love. Familiar words, yet profoundly impactful: "He who does not love does not keep my words." These very words resonate deep within us. Notably, the words you hear are not solely mine but originate from the Father who sent me, Jesus adds. 💞 This insight is truly astonishing. God's desire is simple: Walk in obedience. Embrace a path where the very words I speak become your life. It's a dynamic where obedience transcends mere actions; it's a manifestation of your love for the Divine. #ObedienceAndLove #DivineDirectives #WalkInObedience #LivingWords #SpiritualJourney 1 Samuel 15:22 "To Obey is Better than Sacrifice" https://youtu.be/CHhx8FKITSs Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

👑 A Lesson in Humility: Saul's Choice 👑 🗣️ Saul's actions with Agag, the Amalekite king, paint a vivid lesson. Saul's thought process starts with keeping a trophy, a singular notion that ignites from his desire to appear impressive. He singles out Agag, envisioning himself as the holder of this remarkable king, the epitome of Amalekite royalty. The narrative reveals his initial motive - to possess this "trophy" king. 💬 The story unfolds with Saul eventually constructing a monument to honor his perceived success. But it all began with Saul's personal initiative to keep a trophy, an emblematic act of self-aggrandizement. Notably, Saul also subtly challenges the unchangeable decree of God, implying that divine declarations can be altered. #SaulsChoice #LessonInHumility #DivineDecree #TrophyMentality #ReflectAndLearn 1 Samuel 15:22 "To Obey is Better than Sacrifice" https://youtu.be/CHhx8FKITSs Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

🌟 Embrace Obedience: A Path of Trust 🌟 💡 Obedience needn't be a permanent commitment; it's a willingness to listen to your God. It's about asking, "What do you need from me? Where should I go?" Remember, obedience blooms from trust. As you tune into God's words and the whisper of His spirit, you're showing faith in His guidance. 📖 Let His words reflect in your life – obedience is surrender, aligning with His teachings. From relationships to daily life, think about how you mirror His truth. As a husband, consider: Does your action match His direction? #EmbraceObedience #TrustThePath #GuidedByFaith #ReflectHisTeachings 1 Samuel 15:22 "To Obey is Better than Sacrifice" https://youtu.be/CHhx8FKITSs Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

🏀🏃♀️ Just like sports where fundamentals are key for both kids and pros, life follows a similar rule. Let's hit pause on the daily grind and return to the basics! The fundamental principles are the real constants, just like in sports. 💪 Whether it's dribbling or daily deeds, the fundamentals remain unwavering. 🙏✨ Walking with the Lord is no different. It's all about building on trust, praise, and love, expressed through obedience and service. 📖 Dive into 1 John chapter 3, verses 18-21, to feel the depth of this message. "My little children, let's go beyond just words – let's live truthfully. This way, we're anchored in truth and find confidence before Him." 🌟 #EmbraceTheFundamentals #LifeLessons #SpiritualJourney #TrustPraiseLove #BackToBasics 1 Samuel Chapter 16:7 "..man looks at the outward appearance but the Lord looks at the heart" https://youtu.be/rLDXq1cE_rY Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

David's Fearless Triumph: Unveiling God's Power to the WorldIn the timeless tale of David and Goliath, a courageous young shepherd faces a towering giant armed with only a sling and stones. David's confidence is rooted in faith, proclaiming, "All the earth may know that there is a God in Israel." David's victory isn't about physical strength, but about his unshakable belief in God's supremacy. As the stone finds its mark, Goliath falls, showcasing the incredible power of faith over adversity. Let's draw inspiration from David's unwavering trust. When facing our own challenges, let's remember that God's strength transcends our limitations. Like David, let's declare our faith, unveiling the remarkable power of God in our lives. #DavidandGoliath #UnleashGodsPower #FaithOverAdversity 1 Samuel Chapter 17 "God, David, and Goliath" https://youtu.be/DZSqPmIw6TM Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

Relying on the Living God Against a Mighty Foe The story of David and Goliath is a testament to unwavering faith. David's words in verse 34 echo with conviction: "Your servant used to keep his father's sheep when a lion or bear came and took a lamb out of the flock." He didn't just watch; he took action. He pursued, struck, and delivered the lamb from danger's grip. But what's astonishing is David's declaration: "Your servant killed both a lion and a bear." He saw his past victories as evidence of God's faithfulness. And he boldly proclaimed that the uncircumcised Philistine, Goliath, would meet the same fate. David wasn't relying on his own might; he was trusting in the God who had delivered him before. His faith was unwavering, and he knew that the same Lord who rescued him from lions and bears would be with him against the giant too. It's a lesson for us all. In the face of giants—whatever they may be—we can draw strength from our past victories over challenges. David's faith wasn't limited to his physical ability; it was grounded in God's faithfulness. So, let's channel David's unwavering faith. When we face our giants, let's remember the times God has brought us through. With faith as our foundation, giants become no more than uncircumcised Philistines—defiable by the living God. Just as Saul said to David, "Go, and the Lord be with you," may we step forward with the same faith, knowing that the same God who delivered us from lions and bears is with us against our giants. 🦁🐻🔥 #FaithUnleashed #FacingGiants #GodsFaithfulness 1 Samuel Chapter 17 "God, David, and Goliath" https://youtu.be/DZSqPmIw6TM Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

"Why Struggle When Equipped?" Friends, let's take a moment to reflect on our struggles. Are they rooted in the unfamiliarity with the spiritual weapons God has equipped us with? Just as David admitted, "I haven't tested this," we might find ourselves in the same place. Yet, remember that being unfamiliar doesn't mean we're without hope. God is willing to teach us, to guide us in wielding these spiritual weapons. Our lack of experience doesn't hinder His ability to train us in using His tools effectively. As Christians, we possess powerful spiritual weapons—prayer, faith, the Word of God, and more. They might seem untested, but God is ready to show us their might. Let's embrace the understanding that our battles are spiritual, and the weapons we use must be spiritual too. In 2 Corinthians 10:4, we're reminded that our weapons are not worldly but are empowered by God. They demolish strongholds. So, instead of struggling, let's turn to these spiritual tools and allow God to teach us how to use them effectively. Let's march forward confidently, knowing that in God's hands, even our untested weapons become mighty instruments of victory. 🛡️🔥 #SpiritualWeapons #EmpoweredByGod #UnleashTheMight 1 Samuel Chapter 17 "God, David, and Goliath" https://youtu.be/DZSqPmIw6TM Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

Claiming Victory Through Faith Dear friends, let us embrace the truth that in Christ, we are more than conquerors. His victory is our victory, and with Him, all things are possible. Without Him, we falter, but with Him, we flourish. As we journey, let's not fear the battles that come our way. The battles may be real, but so is our God. His Word guides us, His Spirit leads us, and His promises sustain us. Remember, He is the victor over everything we face. In the midst of trials, let's lean on His teachings, walking according to His word and the guidance of His Spirit. Through Him, we can be triumphant, no longer victims of circumstance but victors through faith. Let's pray for His instruction in our battles, trusting in His wisdom and strength. Let's believe that the victory is already won, resting in His promises. Together, let's say, "Amen!" to His faithfulness and grace. In the powerful name of Jesus, we pray. Amen. 🙏🕊️ #VictoryInChrist #FaithOverFear #ConquerorsThroughHim 1 Samuel Chapter 17 "God, David, and Goliath" https://youtu.be/DZSqPmIw6TM Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

David's Battle: More Than Meets the Eye David, with remarkable insight, reveals the deeper essence of the looming confrontation—a battle fought not merely in the physical realm, but rooted in the spiritual fabric. While the battlefield may manifest in the tangible world, its roots dig into the spiritual realm. David's words echo that understanding. Consider his assertion: "I've been faithful in the little things." David's life, his preparation, reflect this creed. He honed his skills, mastering the sling through relentless practice. He didn't falter in the face of bears or lions; in fact, he confronted them. Why? These predators threatened the lambs he safeguarded. In his own words, "I struck it...I delivered it." The significance? David learned to confront adversaries because he was driven by the responsibility of protecting what was entrusted to him. A principle woven into his very being, a principle birthed from God's guidance. This wasn't just about skill with a sling; it was about stewardship, about aligning with God's purposes. So, as we face our own battles—whether spiritual, emotional, or physical—let us remember David's lessons. It's not merely the mechanics; it's the heart, the stewardship, the faithfulness in the little things. We, too, are called to protect what's entrusted to us, to rise unflinchingly to confront challenges with the confidence that stems from God's training. 🛡️🦁 #SpiritualBattlefield #FaithfulInSmallThings #DavidAndGoliath 1 Samuel Chapter 17 "God, David, and Goliath" https://youtu.be/DZSqPmIw6TM Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

Laying Aside Encumbrances for Victory Intriguingly, within the tapestry of this passage from Hebrews, we find a striking portrayal of a forthcoming battle. A colossal assembly of witnesses stands as spectators—one side occupied by the Philistines, the other by the Israelites. Truly, a grand crowd of witnesses. Yet, the core message of Hebrews beckons us to unveil a deeper truth: within this vast assembly, we are summoned to discard the entanglements that hinder our progress. Perhaps you're familiar with the iconic scene where Saul offers David his battle-tested armor. A symbol of tradition, of proven strategy. But David, recognizing its unsuitability for him, must gracefully set it aside. He opts to cast off the weight of that which encumbers him. Unfamiliar with the armor's ways, he strips himself of its cumbersome presence. A decision founded on the need to rise unburdened, prepared to face the task at hand. Isn't it fascinating how this narrative resonates with our spiritual journey? We too bear the call to shed the weights that hinder us—the doubts, the traditions, the fears—so we can step forth unburdened into the destiny that beckons. Let us, like David, resolutely lay aside the encumbrances, thus embracing our unique path to victory. 🛡️🏹 #LayingAsideWeights #UnencumberedFaith #Hebrews12 1 Samuel Chapter 17 "God, David, and Goliath" https://youtu.be/DZSqPmIw6TM Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

Embracing God's Faithfulness: A Prayer for Victory 1 Samuel Chapter 17 "God, David, and Goliath" https://youtu.be/DZSqPmIw6TM Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

Pastor Lowell Nelson teaches Acts 9:20-31 at the Monday evening Upper Room Bible Study. www.ccmilwaukee.com

Pastor Lowell Nelson teaches on 1 Samuel 19: 1-24 The rescuing of David. on 8/23/2023 for our Wednesday Evening Service.

From Wood to Victory: Unveiling God's Masterplan 🌳🗿 In the epic showdown of David and Goliath, the humblest of weapons—a piece of wood and a simple stone—becomes a symbol of triumph. This echoes a profound truth: God's greatest victory would emerge from a piece of wood upon which our Savior would bear the cross, and a stone that sealed His tomb, only to be rolled away in glory. David's faith is a beacon here, as he carries a wooden staff and a handful of stones. Interestingly, there's a compelling thought about the five stones he picked up. While he only needed one, there's a hint in 2 Samuel 21:15-22 that Goliath had four brothers. David's readiness demonstrates his trust in God's sovereign plan. So, as we face our own giants, let's remember that God can transform the simplest of tools into instruments of victory. Just as David's sling brought down a giant, the wood of the cross and the stone rolled away from the tomb bring us eternal victory. Our faith in God's masterplan turns ordinary elements into extraordinary triumphs. 🌳🗿 #FaithTriumphs #DivineStrategy #OrdinaryToExtraordinary 1 Samuel Chapter 17 "God, David, and Goliath" https://youtu.be/DZSqPmIw6TM Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

Navigating Life's Battles with Unwavering Faith 🛡️🙏 In the timeless clash between David and Goliath, we see more than a physical confrontation—it's a spiritual battle. David's secret weapon isn't his physical prowess; it's the presence of the Spirit of the Lord. On the other hand, Saul, who lacks the Spirit, faces defeat. This story holds a profound lesson: life is a series of battles, both seen and unseen. Each challenge, each obstacle, is an opportunity for growth and faith-building. David's journey wasn't just about one giant; it was about conquering the smaller battles, learning to rely on God's strength. Remember, before you face your Goliath, you might have to overcome discouragement, negativity, and doubts. These battles prepare you for the greater ones. By realizing that every battle belongs to the Lord, you can shed the weight of ridicule, compromise, and criticism. Embrace unwavering faith, knowing that with God, you're equipped for every battle life throws your way. 🛡️🙌 #FaithFights #OvercomeChallenges #GodIsWithUs 1 Samuel Chapter 17 "God, David, and Goliath" https://youtu.be/DZSqPmIw6TM Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

The Power of Faith: David vs. Goliath ⚔️🛡️ Picture this epic showdown: Goliath, the imposing giant, challenges David to combat. Goliath boasts of delivering David's flesh to the birds and beasts. Yet, David's response is not of fear, but of unwavering faith. Goliath comes armed with a sword, spear, and javelin, exuding human might. David, on the other hand, declares, "I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel." He recognizes that this battle isn't merely about him and Goliath—it's about God's honor. David's trust in God's supremacy gives him the edge. He knows that this isn't a one-on-one duel, but a battle between Goliath's defiance and the Almighty God. With God on his side, David's confidence soars as he predicts, "The Lord will deliver you into my hand." In the end, it's not David's size or weapons that win the day; it's his unyielding faith in the God he serves. This ageless tale reminds us that even the mightiest obstacles can be conquered when faced with faith and the assurance that God's power surpasses all. ⚔️🙌 #FaithOverFear #UnstoppableFaith #GodsPowerPrevails 1 Samuel Chapter 17 "God, David, and Goliath" https://youtu.be/DZSqPmIw6TM Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

David's Triumph: Facing Giants with Unwavering Faith 🏹🔥 In the face of daunting odds, David stands resolute against Goliath—a giant who represents not just a physical foe, but doubt, fear, and the pressures of the world. At first glance, it's three against two: Goliath, his armor-bearer, and the world's skepticism versus David and his God. Yet, David knew the ultimate truth: Goliath's god was powerless. Realizing it's two against two, David exudes unshakeable confidence. He steps onto the battlefield not with his might, but with the assurance that God is about to reveal His incredible power. He stands as a witness to the amazing deliverance God is about to unleash upon Israel. Similarly, in our own battles, we're not alone. We're surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who have gone before us, cheering us on. The author of Hebrews urges us to shed every hindrance that obstructs our path—ridicule, opposition, doubts, and compromises. As we face our giants, let's remember that we're not to be afraid, for our faith in God is our greatest weapon. 🏹🙌 #FaithTriumphs #OvercomingGiants #UnwaveringTrust 1 Samuel Chapter 17 "God, David, and Goliath" https://youtu.be/DZSqPmIw6TM Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

Spiritual Warfare Unveiled: Battling Giants Within 🛡️🔥 In the midst of life's challenges, it's easy to be misled into fighting battles in our own strength. But, let's uncover the truth: the real battle is a spiritual one. When Saul tries to impose his armor on David, it symbolizes the world's way of doing things, urging us to compromise and conform. Yet, God reminds us that our weapons are not of the flesh; they're mighty in Him for breaking strongholds. This is David's third battle—resisting the allure of human strategies and staying true to God's ways. However, the fourth battle showcases David's unwavering faith. Against all odds, he faces Goliath, a literal giant, but in essence, a giant symbolizing fear, doubt, and impossibility. David triumphs not with worldly armor, but with the stones of faith and trust. In our lives, these battles remind us that we are called to fight spiritually, relying on God's strength. So when you face giants—whether doubts, fears, or pressures—remember, your victory lies in embracing God's armor and stepping forward in faith. 🛡️🙏 #SpiritualWarfare #FaithOverFear #DavidAndGoliath 1 Samuel Chapter 17 "God, David, and Goliath" https://youtu.be/DZSqPmIw6TM Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

David's Ascension: A Journey of Preparation and Reign 👑🌟 David's rise to kingship was a journey of remarkable endurance. At the age of 30, he stepped into his role as king and began a reign that spanned an incredible 40 years. However, it's vital to recognize that God's anointing doesn't always translate to instant action. David's journey wasn't a rapid ascent; it was a process of preparation. Initially anointed king over his own tribe, Judah, it took time before he was anointed as king over all of Israel. This journey underscores the importance of God's timing and our preparedness. Just as David's anointing wasn't the finish line but the starting point, remember that God's calling involves growth, training, and embracing the journey. Let David's story inspire you to trust in God's plan and timing, even when the path seems longer than expected. 🕊️👑 #DavidTheKing #JourneyToGreatness #GodsTimingIsPerfect 1 Samuel Chapter 16 "David, the Lords Anointed King" https://youtu.be/0TBOkwrJG64 Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

From Judah to United Rule: David's Anointed Journey 👑🕊️ David's path to kingship unfolds with remarkable twists. Picture this: In Chapter 2, verse 4, the men of Judah anoint David as king over their region. A significant step, yet it's limited to the southern tribes. It takes time, but the day comes when, in Chapter 5, verse 3, something extraordinary happens. All the elders of Israel gather before King David in Hebron. This marks a pivotal moment as they make a covenant in the presence of the Lord, anointing David as king over the entire nation of Israel. David's journey from a shepherd boy to a united ruler showcases God's unfolding plan and timing. Let's learn from his patient obedience and recognize that God's purposes are worth the wait. 🙏👑 #DavidTheKing #DivineTiming #PatientObedience 1 Samuel Chapter 16 "David, the Lords Anointed King" https://youtu.be/0TBOkwrJG64 Subscribe: https://mtr.bio/calvarychapelmke

Pastor Lowell Nelson teaches on 1 Samuel 18:4 "Johnathan gives David His Robe and Armor" on 8/20/2023 for our Sunday Service.