Set Free 24-7

Journey Through The Message 46 | The Roast Of Festus | Set Free 24-7

We begin today in Matthew, where we read about the story of a rich young man who asks Jesus how to inherit eternal life but doesn't like his answer very much. Could you sell everything you own and follow Jesus? That's a big question and one to think about. 
In Acts 26:19-32, we hear Paul's defense before King Agrippa, in which he recounts his conversion to Christianity and his mission to preach the Gospel to both Jews and Gentiles. Despite his persuasive arguments, Agrippa is not convinced to become a Christian. But that doesn't stop Paul from roasting Festus while he is at it! 
In Psalm 43 we hear a plea for God's protection and deliverance from enemies. The psalmist asks God to vindicate him and lead him to the place of God's dwelling. Have you ever begged God for vindication? Heidi had a personal experience with this that she shares in our reading. 
As we finish our reading in Leviticus 16-17, we learn that these chapters describe the Day of Atonement and the laws regarding the eating of blood. I will say that my heart broke a little for all of the people who liked a good rare steak every once in awhile. Looking at these laws and rules through the lens of God trying to set his people apart and keep them safe makes you understand how much He truly loves us. 
Join my wife and me as we read through the Bible in The Message version this year! Put a fresh set of eyes on the Bible with this beautiful translation and enjoy a little back and forth as we dig into God's Word. Grab a cup of coffee, put us in the background, and let's read this amazing book together. 
Today's Text if you are following along:
Matthew 19:16-30
Acts 26:19-32
Psalm 43
Leviticus 16-17
 
Continue the conversation on our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/5879162978841385 
Want to follow along with us? Get the Message Devotional Bible HERE! https://amzn.to/3IBtT6F 
Need a LARGE PRINT VERSION? -- https://amzn.to/3IO01nJ
The Message Devotional Bible (Hardcover): Featuring Notes and Reflections
from Eugene H. Peterson
Find Your Way in Scripture.Scripture is another world. One we find our way into. And one that finds its way into us. Steeped in Scripture, Eugene Peterson’s faith-filled reflections open the door.The Message Devotional Bible invites you on a journey―call it practicing resurrection, call it eating this book, or call it simply a long obedience in the same direction. From the pastor who translated the entire Bible, The Message Devotional Bible sets you on the right path―devoted not just to the Bible but to God, who, in Jesus, became flesh and blood and moved into the neighborhood.Open the door between Scripture and your world.From Eugene . . .
Over 600 scriptural insights
52 contemplative readings
Introductions to the books and genres of the Bible
Plus . . .
More than 400 reflection questions
9 neighborhood-themed articles

The Fellowship | Central Bible Ministries | Mondays from 630p-830p

Every Monday night from 6:30-830pm my wife and I head into Grand Rapids for Central Bible Ministries and a gathering of people that we like to call The Fellowship. It's laid back and welcoming, full of people who have been there and done that, and ready to meet you wherever you are at on this journey called life. 
Today's recording was not planned so please forgive the audio! We look forward to bringing you more content from our meetings there and the invitation is always open for you to come and check us out! We meet at Buck Creek Community Church in Wyoming and you are always welcome to come as you are. We start out with a meal, share some personal testimonies amongst the group, and then enjoy a message and some praise and worship! 
We hope to see you there! 
 

Journey Through The Message 45 | How To Cleanse Your House And Body... according to the Bible! | Set Free 24-7

We start out with Jesus playing a mental chess game with the Pharisees over the question of divorce. I wonder if Jesus was on his school debate club? Can you imagine that!
Paul gets a chance to state his case in front of King Agrippa and shares his conversion testimony - every detail! You may be able to argue doctrine and theology, but when you see a man's life radically changed in front of you - there is no arguing that!
In Psalms we see that it's ok to talk to God when we are feeling distant from him or depressed and that he is faithful to us through those times and is there to give us hope.
And we end in Leviticus, where they describe the laws of purification and cleansing for those who have been afflicted with skin diseases, bodily discharges, and other impurities. Good clean fun in today's Journey Through The Message! Join us as we read through the Message Version Bible and share stories of adversity and the journey to freedom in our lives! 
Join my wife and me as we read through the Bible in The Message version this year! Put a fresh set of eyes on the Bible with this beautiful translation and enjoy a little back and forth as we dig into God's Word. Grab a cup of coffee, put us in the background, and let's read this amazing book together. 
Today's Text if you are following along:
Matthew 19:1-15
Acts 26:1-18
Psalm 42
Leviticus 14-15
 
Continue the conversation on our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/5879162978841385 
Want to follow along with us? Get the Message Devotional Bible HERE! https://amzn.to/3IBtT6F 
Need a LARGE PRINT VERSION? -- https://amzn.to/3IO01nJ
The Message Devotional Bible (Hardcover): Featuring Notes and Reflections
from Eugene H. Peterson
Find Your Way in Scripture.Scripture is another world. One we find our way into. And one that finds its way into us. Steeped in Scripture, Eugene Peterson’s faith-filled reflections open the door.The Message Devotional Bible invites you on a journey―call it practicing resurrection, call it eating this book, or call it simply a long obedience in the same direction. From the pastor who translated the entire Bible, The Message Devotional Bible sets you on the right path―devoted not just to the Bible but to God, who, in Jesus, became flesh and blood and moved into the neighborhood.Open the door between Scripture and your world.From Eugene . . .
Over 600 scriptural insights
52 contemplative readings
Introductions to the books and genres of the Bible
Plus . . .
More than 400 reflection questions
9 neighborhood-themed articles
Matthew 19:1-15: This passage contains the story of Jesus interacting with some Pharisees who ask him about divorce. Jesus responds by emphasizing the importance of marriage and the permanence of the union between a man and a woman. He also blesses children who are brought to him, which highlights the value and importance of children in God's eyes.
Acts 26:1-18: This passage contains Paul's defense before King Agrippa, in which he recounts his conversion experience and how he was called to preach the gospel to the Gentiles. Paul shares his encounter with the risen Christ on the road to Damascus and how it transformed his life and ministry.
Psalm 42: This psalm is a lament of a person who is feeling depressed and distant from God. The author longs to be in God's presence and asks God for help and deliverance from his troubles. The psalm ends with an expression of hope and trust in God's faithfulness.
Leviticus 14-15: These chapters describe the laws of purification and cleansing for those who have been afflicted with skin diseases, bodily discharges, and other impurities. The rituals and sacrifices outlined in these chapters were meant to restore people to a state of purity and allow them to re-enter the community.
 
"Explore The Depths Of The Message With Robert And Heidi"
Summary/Abstract
Robert and Heidi invite the listener to join in their journey through the Message Bible, a paraphrase of the Bible. They believe that even for people who are well-versed in the Bible, the Message translation can open up new perspectives. They share their own experience with the translation and offer a prayer before beginning to read from Matthew. They hope that the listener can gain a new understanding of the Bible and a better understanding of themselves through this journey. The speaker is discussing the challenge of prayer, and his difficulty in engaging in formal prayers due to prior experiences. He then brings up the story of Zoe Anne, a student of theirs who is currently incarcerated and separated from her four children. He prays for all mothers who have been incarcerated, that they are given peace and hope, and that those on the outside are willing to receive them and show them they are welcome. He also prays that God will be able to show these women his word and lead them to a place of peace and hope. The discussion focuses on Jesus' teachings on divorce in Matthew 19:1-15. In response to the Pharisees' question about whether it was legal for a man to divorce his wife for any reason, Jesus explains that this was not part of God's original plan. He then discusses the importance of marriage, noting that it requires a certain aptitude and grace and is not for everyone. Jesus also emphasizes the importance of showing love to children and not putting young people in situations they are not prepared for. In conclusion, the discussion emphasizes the need for good Christians to look at the situation of divorce in a good light. The conversation is about the consequences of premarital sex in young couples who haven't asked any questions or planned for the future. The speaker admits that it is problematic to quickly put a bandaid on the situation and encourages people to consider the underlying infection that is growing. The speaker shares their own experience of having a relationship that was not put together by God, and contrasts it with the profound difference they have experienced with their current partner who was put together by God. The speaker then reads from Acts chapter 26, verses 1-18, where Paul is telling his story to King Agrippa. Paul shares how he was a strict Pharisee, who at first opposed Jesus of Nazareth, and threw believers into the Jerusalem jail and voted for their execution. He ultimately had a blinding light experience on his way to Damascus and decided to follow Jesus.
Timestamps
00:00:00
Journey Through The Message: Exploring the Bible with Robert and Heidi
00:03:07
Subject: Prayer for Incarcerated Mothers
00:06:30
Conversation Summary: Matthew 19:1-15 - Divorce and Marriage
00:10:38
Conversation Summary: The Dangers of Hasty Marriages
00:14:36
Conversation on Saul's Conversion and God's Grace
00:16:36
Summary of Paul's Defense Before King Agrippa and Psalm 42: A Whitetailed Deer Drinks from the Creek
00:22:00
Conversation Summary: Exploring Metaphors of Faith in Psalm 42
00:24:26
Conversation Summary: Exploring Psalm 42 and Leviticus 14
00:26:07
Heading: Leviticus 14:1-32: Instructions for Cleansing a Person with Skin Disease
00:29:09
Leviticus 14:1-32: Instructions for Cleansing from Serious Skin Disease
00:30:48
Examination of a House with Fungus: Procedure for Purification
00:33:19
Leviticus 15: Procedures for Determining Cleanliness and Uncleanliness of Skin Diseases, Mildew, Fungus, and Bodily Discharges
00:37:27
Summary of Leviticus 15: Ritual Cleanliness for Men and Women
00:39:12
Conversation Summary: The Woman Who Touched Jesus and Being Unclean
00:41:15
Conversation Summary: Exploring the Treatment of Women in the Bible
00:45:47
Conversation Summary: Prayer Requests and Leviticus
Highlights
There's a lot of women I think, that can struggle with different aspects of how women are portrayed. As you read the Bible and I'm, I'm one of them, there are things I struggle with, like the, if you have a baby girl, you're banished for twice as long.
woman and going to see Jesus then, right? Mm-hmm. Is that Jesus didn't go bathe after she touched. He looked at her and he forgave her sins, and then he went on because yes, it was the new law, right? Mm-hmm.
It reminded me of the woman who touched Jesus's garment, that she led a life of being unclean. Like it said in there, I don't know the exact date. Yes, but it was like years.
These are the procedures regarding infectious skin diseases and mildew and fungus. Mm, lots of good stuff there. Some of the same things that. Still put into practice today with mold and mild.
These are the procedures to be followed for every kind of serious skin disease or itch for mildew or fungus on clothing or in a house and for a swelling or blister or shiny spot in order to determine when it is unclean and when it is clean.

Discovering The Virtues Of The Proverbs 31 Woman: Lessons For Life | Set Free 24-7

A Proverb a Day Keeps the Police Away! Join me as we read through the book of Proverbs in the Message Version this month!  In this video, we'll be diving into one of the most inspiring passages in the Bible that celebrate the virtues of a godly woman. Proverbs 31 is a beautiful and powerful description of a woman who is confident, strong, and virtuous.
Throughout the passage, we'll see how this woman is praised for her hard work, wisdom, and kindness toward others. We'll explore how her example can inspire us to live our lives with purpose and meaning.
 Finally, we'll conclude by reflecting on the timeless wisdom of this passage and how it can shape our attitudes and actions toward ourselves and others. So, if you're looking for inspiration and encouragement to live a godly and purposeful life, join me as we explore Proverbs 31. Today's reading is packed full of wisdom, insight, and good instruction for living to keep you on the right path! I'm not pushy or preachy, I'm just glad that you are here!
Watch the video for this episode here! https://youtu.be/PTio7Wg0xNU
CONNECT WITH ROBERT! EMAIL: robert@setfree247.com WEBSITE: setfree247.com FACEBOOK: facebook.com/rjwoldhuis TWITTER: @setfree247 YOUTUBE: @setfree247
"Couples' Bible Reading Uncovers Inspiration On Speaking Kindly"
Summary/Abstract Show Notes
Robert and Heidi are introducing their Proverbs 31 edition. They are using the Message Version of the Bible and having some fun while they read. Robert mentions Heidi's tie-dye romper and they both agree that it is important to have some fun while reading the Bible.
They discuss the section titled “Speak out for Justice” and how it is important to use the Bible to understand how to treat people with justice. Robert and Heidi then go on to read Proverbs 31 and discuss its meaning. They emphasize the importance of being a wise and strong woman, and how even though it can be difficult, it is worth it in the end.
They also discuss the importance of being generous and having a good work ethic. Finally, they explain how the Bible is a great source of wisdom and can help us understand how to be better people. The conversation between the speaker and their partner is a discussion of King Lemuel's words, particularly the advice his mother gave him. The speaker encourages their partner to be cautious when it comes to women and to not let their drinking lead them to make decisions that would affect those who depend on them.
They then transition to a hymn about a good wife, and discuss how she is hard to find, but worth more than diamonds. The good wife is generous and trusts her husband unreservedly. She shops for the best yarn and cotton, and is up before dawn to make breakfast for her family. She is diligent in her homemaking, quick to assist those in need, and takes the time to mend her family's clothing.
Her husband is respected when he deliberates with the city fathers. The speaker talks about his wife who is a great example of a woman who lives in the fear of God. She designs gowns and knits sweaters and always faces tomorrow with a smile. When she speaks, she always has something worthwhile to say and says it in a kind way.
She takes care of everyone in her family and they respect and bless her. The speaker is still learning to be gentle with people and is inspired by his wife's gentleness and kind words. He encourages everyone to give her all the praise she deserves. The couple discussed the importance of self-control, particularly in times when the husband has a strong personality. The wife reminded him that he will garner more respect if he keeps his voice lowered and steady, and maintains a grip on his emotions.
She also expressed her love for him and the fact that she married him because of his powerful personality. To share the Bible with others, the couple also has a podcast where they are recording and run through the entire Message Version Bible. They invited listeners to join them on their journey and encouraged public displays of affection.
Timestamps 00:00:00 Proverbs 31: Speak Out for Justice with Robert and Heidi
00:01:03 Conversation Summary: King Lemuel's Advice and A Hymn to a Good Wife
00:04:17 Reflection on Proverbs 31: The Woman to Be Admired
00:06:17 Conversation on the Power of Emotional Control

How Biblical Wisdom Transforms Your Life | Journey Through Proverbs 30 | Set Free 24-7

A Proverb a Day Keeps the Police Away! Join me as we read through the book of Proverbs in the Message Version this month! Proverbs 30 is a chapter in the book of Proverbs, which is a collection of wise sayings and teachings attributed to King Solomon. This chapter contains the words of Agur son of Jakeh, who is believed to have been a wise man and teacher from the ancient land of Massa. The chapter begins with Agur acknowledging his own ignorance and humbly seeking wisdom from God.
He then goes on to share a series of profound and thought-provoking proverbs that touch on various topics, including the nature of God, the dangers of greed and pride, the importance of contentment and humility, and the beauty of creation. One of the most famous proverbs in this chapter is found in verse 5, where Agur says, "Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him." This verse emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's wisdom and guidance, and suggests that those who do so will be protected and kept safe.
Other notable proverbs in this chapter include verses 7-9, where Agur prays for God to give him just enough to meet his needs, but not so much that he becomes proud or forgets God. He also warns against speaking falsely or using deceitful language in verse 10, and speaks about the mysterious ways of nature in verses 18-19.
Overall, Proverbs 30 offers a wealth of timeless wisdom and guidance for those seeking to live a life of faith, humility, and wisdom. Today's reading is packed full of wisdom, insight, and good instruction for living to keep you on the right path! I'm not pushy or preachy, I'm just glad that you are here!
CONNECT WITH ROBERT! EMAIL: robert@setfree247.com WEBSITE: setfree247.com FACEBOOK: facebook.com/rjwoldhuis TWITTER: @setfree247 YOUTUBE: @setfree247
 
Proverbs 30: Finding Faith, Humility And Dependence Through God.
Summary/Abstract Show Notes
The conversation in Proverbs 30 begins with a skeptic declaring that there is no God and that they can do whatever they want. This leads to presumption and arrogance. In verse two, the believer then responds by challenging the skeptic’s statement and asking them who has created the world and all its wonders.
The believer then goes on to list some of these wonders, such as the strength of the leviathan and the swiftness of the eagle. In verses four and five, the believer expresses the futility of human knowledge, stating that no one can understand the mystery of God nor can they fathom the depths of the seas.
The believer then continues to describe how the Lord is in control of all things, from the heavens to the highest mountains. Verses seven and eight also describe how the Lord is the one who gives both poverty and wealth, and how he humbles and exalts people. Finally, the believer ends the conversation in verse nine by expressing faith, humility, and dependence on the Lord. The conversation is between a skeptic, who believes there is no God, and a believer. The skeptic claims that arrogance closes our minds to anything outside of our own self-interest and the fulfillment of our most selfish instincts, while the believer argues that an awareness of God leads to faith, humility, and dependence on Him.
The believer then prays to God, asking for two things before he dies: to speak truthfully and to live independently. The believer also asks God not to refuse him, to banish lies from his lips, and to give him enough food to live on. The believer then warns the skeptic to not blow the whistle on his fellow workers behind their backs, or they will accuse him of being underhanded. In conclusion, the believer argues that humility leads to prayer, and an absence of God leads to skepticism, arrogance, and presumption.
The conversation is about how to not fall into bad habits and how to lead a good life. It starts by cautioning against cursing one's father or not blessing one's mother, and not thinking one is presentable without taking a bath. It goes on to warn against being stuck up and greedy, and tearing into the poor and needy.
It then mentions four Insatiables, three of which are never satisfied, and four mysteries which the speaker is unable to understand. It also lists four intolerables, four small wonders, and four dignitaries which have impressive bearing. The conversation ends with a reminder to not be stuck up and to always show respect. In summary, the conversation is a warning to lead a good life and to show respect.
Timestamps 00:00:00 Proverbs 30: Faith, Humility, and Dependence
00:00:59 Heading: The Contrast Between Arrogance and Humility in Believers and Skeptics
00:03:13 Conversation on the Dangers of Disrespecting Parents and Greed
00:06:14 Proverbs 30: Reflection and Discussion

If People Can’t See What God Is Doing | Journey Through Proverbs 29 | Set Free 24-7

A Proverb a Day Keeps the Police Away! Join me as we read through the book of Proverbs in the Message Version this month! Proverbs 29 is a chapter from the Book of Proverbs in the Bible, which contains a collection of wise sayings and advice on various topics, such as morality, ethics, and relationships. Proverbs 29 contains many valuable insights into human behavior and offers guidance on how to live a fulfilling and righteous life.
Some of the key themes in this chapter include the importance of justice, humility, discipline, and wisdom. Another notable proverb from this chapter is Proverbs 29:23, which states, "Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor." This proverb highlights the value of humility and warns against the dangers of arrogance and pride. Today's reading is packed full of wisdom, insight, and good instruction for living to keep you on the right path! I'm not pushy or preachy, I'm just glad that you are here!
Watch the video for this episode here! https://youtu.be/7ZzpPr4v0Eg
CONNECT WITH ROBERT! EMAIL: robert@setfree247.com WEBSITE: setfree247.com FACEBOOK: facebook.com/rjwoldhuis TWITTER: @setfree247 YOUTUBE: @setfree247
 
"Proverbs 29: Wisdom On Leadership, Poverty And More" Summary/Abstract Show Notes This conversation discusses the importance of discipline and treating the poor fairly. It explains that when a leader listens to malicious gossip, everyone is infected with evil. The section emphasizes the importance of disciplining children, as it will make them more delightful to live with.
It also explains that good people will be glad when evil people stumble, and that people will be blessed when they attend to what God reveals. The conversation concludes by emphasizing that it takes more than talk to keep workers in line. In this conversation, the speaker talks about Proverbs 29, discussing how simple words can easily go in one ear and out the other. They caution against letting people treat you like a doormat and remind us that an angry person stirs up a lot of discord.
They focus on verses 14 and 25, which state that leadership gains authority and respect when the voiceless poor are treated fairly, and the fear of human opinion can disable us, but trusting in God can protect us from that. Finally, they encourage us to look at the poor with kindness and not condescension, as God focuses special love on them.
The speaker recounts two instances where God had placed something on his heart. In the first instance, he was at church and felt compelled to go up and put his hands on a family and pray for them despite his initial apprehensions. In the second instance, he was at the VFW and noticed a man wearing a shirt that said In Memory of with the date March 6, 2023. Despite his initial reluctance, he felt compelled to talk to the man, and sure enough, the man walked right up to him. The speaker's takeaway is that when God puts something on your heart, you should trust Him and just move forward with it.
Timestamps
0:00:00 Heading: Proverbs 29: A Day to Keep the Police Away - Exploring the Message Version
0:00:56 Topic: The Benefits of Discipline and Wisdom in Leadership
0:03:24 Summary of Proverbs 29: Discussion
0:05:55 Heading: Trusting God and Moving Forward with His Guidance 0:08:27 Reflection on Conversation with Father Who Lost Daughter to Heroin Overdose
Highlights The Bible always looks at the poor with kindness, not condescension. The poor are always the focus of God's special love and always an opportunity for us to manifest his love. And so just to reiterate there, verse number 14 was leadership gains authority and respect when the voiceless poor are treated fairly.
The other one that stood out to me was verse number 25. The fear of human opinion disables, and trusting in God protects you from that. How many times do we allow things when we think somebody's thinking something of us, right? Or how many times do we think something in our head like, man, I can't do that because somebody's going to think something of me or I don't know what they'll say, or they're going to laugh at me, or they're going to think I'm stupid. But if God is placing something on your heart, I'm going to say trust Him and just move forward with that.
When good people run things, everyone is glad. But when the ruler is bad, everyone groans. If you love wisdom, you'll delight your parents, but you'll destroy their trust if you run with prostitutes. A leader of good judgment gives stability. An exploiting leader leaves a trail of waste. A flattering neighbor is up to no good. He's probably planning to take advantage of you.
 

A Devious Life Is A Doomed Life | Journey Through Proverbs 28 | Set Free 24-7

A Proverb a Day Keeps the Police Away! Join me as we read through the book of Proverbs in the Message Version this month! I love verse 18: "Walk Straight, Live well, and be saved! A Devious life is a doomed life." Where in your life are you holding onto some devious ways? Is it devious to not be honest with someone about how you are doing or something that you are going through?
The consequences of sin: Proverbs 28:13 states, "Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy." This verse highlights the importance of admitting our sins and seeking forgiveness, as concealing them will lead to negative consequences and hinder our prosperity.
The value of hard work: Proverbs 28:19 says, "Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits will have plenty of poverty." This verse emphasizes the importance of diligence and hard work, which lead to prosperity and abundanceToday's reading is packed full of wisdom, insight, and good instruction for living to keep you on the right path! I'm not pushy or preachy, I'm just glad that you are here!
CONNECT WITH ROBERT! EMAIL: robert@setfree247.com WEBSITE: setfree247.com FACEBOOK: facebook.com/rjwoldhuis TWITTER: @setfree247 YOUTUBE: @setfree247
 
"Good Instruction For Living: Proverbs 28 - A Light, Fun Reading"
Summary/Abstract Show Notes
Robert welcomed the viewer to Set Free 24/7 and introduced the Proverb a day to keep the police away. He said that Proverbs are full of wisdom and good instruction, even for those who don't follow a faith. Robert then joked about his jacket and said that God's Word can be fun. The Proverb of the day was from Proverbs 28 and was titled If You Desert God's Law. This Proverb talks about how the wicked are edgy with guilt, always ready to run away, while the honest people are relaxed and confident.
Robert then encouraged the viewer to explore more of God's Word. The conversation discussed the impact of wickedness and how it affects the poor. It is better to be poor and direct than rich and crooked. It is important to practice God's law, which will bring wisdom and a good reputation. It is better to be generous to the poor, rather than ignoring them and risking their curses.
The conversation concluded with the idea that having a tender heart leads to a blessed life, whereas having a hard heart leads to a hard life, and that it is important to give anger and grudges to God. In this episode, the speaker talks about the importance of surrounding yourself with people who are wiser than you and have more experience in life. He encourages listeners to find people who can pray for them, be transparent with them, and help sharpen their iron.
He emphasizes that real survivors learn wisdom from others and that by allowing them into your life, it can end up for the best. He finishes by reminding the audience to like and share the episode and to leave prayer requests in the comments if they need it.
Timestamps 0:00:00 Script for Proverbs Chapter 28 Reading: "If You Desert God's Law"
0:01:09 Summary of Proverbs 28: Reflection on Doing Great Harm in Seemingly Harmless Ways 0:05:41 Episode 28: Real Survivors Learn Wisdom from Others Highlights 
The other one that I put down was if you think you know it all, you're a fool for sure. Real survivors learn wisdom from others. One of the things that I did a little differently this time around when I got out of prison was started to surround myself with people that knew more than me, that were in recovery longer than me and had been part of a faith community longer than me. Shut your eyes to their needs and run a gauntlet of curses. And when corruption takes over, good people go underground. But when the crooks are thrown out, it's safe to come out. And friends, just like that, we are done with Chapter 28. Was there a verse in there that stood out to you? Or maybe something that you took from the whole theme of today?
For Chapter 28, I had written down a tender-hearted person lives a blessed life, and a hard-hearted person lives a hard life. A devious life is a doomed life. And the next section is titled doing Great Harm in Seemingly Harmless Ways. So work your garden. You'll end up with plenty of food, play and party, and you'll end up with an empty plate. Committed and persistent work pays off. Get-rich-quick schemes are ripoffs playing favorites is always a bad thing. You can do great harm in seemingly harmless ways. A miser in a hurry to get rich doesn't know that he'll end up broke in the end.
 

The Devil In Me | The Prodigal Son Comes Home | Robert Woldhuis Testimony

//// WATCH THE ORIGINAL VIDEO HERE: https://youtu.be/kMTNlWIqrgI  \\\\  @kingdomreel1008  for more!
In this KINGDOM REEL Documentary, we follow the life of Robert Woldhuis, a Michigan native who tells his powerful story of the battles he has fought in life and the victories he achieved along the way. Roberts story gives the audience a glimpse into what a string of bad decisions can result in and what life looks like when the consequences of those decisions catch up with you. There is hope in his story that is full of redemption, forgiveness and restoration resulting in a full circle moment. Robert shows us that no matter how far gone you may be, you are never too far gone to change your life around and find peace, hope and joy. Know someone that this film could bless? Please like and share it with them! For all KINGDOM REEL Podcasts and Documentaries visit our website http://www.kingdomreel.com
CONNECT WITH ROBERT! EMAIL: robert@setfree247.com WEBSITE: setfree247.com FACEBOOK: facebook.com/rjwoldhuis TWITTER: @setfree247 Want to watch the episode?
Click here for the video! https://youtu.be/kMTNlWIqrgI
Summary/Abstract Show Notes The speaker had a seemingly perfect childhood growing up with a religious family on a farm and attending Christian schools. They would often go to visit their uncle and aunt in Illinois during the summers, and this is where they developed an interest in customer service and the market. Middle school was tough for the speaker as they only had one other classmate when they left 8th grade, and they had to reintegrate into a high school with friends who had been together for nearly a decade.
This made the speaker the outsider, living outside of town and not quite fitting in with their classmates. The speaker recounts his experience of feeling like an outsider in high school. He tried to fit in with different groups but felt like he didn't belong in any of them. He also had disciplinary issues and felt like the disciplinarian, Pete, had a personal vendetta against him. He accumulated 20 points by Christmas time and needed 21 to be expelled.
He felt like he couldn't do anything right and was constantly being watched by Pete. The speaker's story highlights the difficulties of navigating high school as an outsider. The speaker had a long school year ahead of him, but he made one mistake and got himself kicked out of high school in his senior year. He was smoking pot and using acid but still managed to graduate from South Christian High School, albeit without attending the graduation ceremony.
He felt a major disconnect with religion, people calling themselves Christians, and his family, as he was adopted when he was a baby. As an adopted kid, he had the desire to know his roots, and would often go to the farmers market in Chicago with his parents. His parents were honest with him about his adoption, which he appreciated.
The speaker had a difficult upbringing due to a disconnect with family, religion, and Christianity. He joined the military as a way to escape and start anew. Upon graduating from boot camp, he got a tattoo of a devil flipping off with both hands to symbolize his resentment towards God, religion, and Christianity. He had four kids at a young age, but his marriage struggled due to his inability to communicate with his wife, eventually leading to divorce.
This divorce was particularly difficult for him because he had grown up in a Christian home and was expected to live up to that standard. Running even blessed me with my wife. I met my wife in 2019 as she was entering a program through the Amway Riverbank Run that I was exiting, and we both didn't want a relationship at that point, but God knew what he wanted, and God knew what he was going to bring together.
So while I don't run as much as I used to, I still have a love for running and the community of people around running and all of the beautiful gifts, including my wife, that running has given me. And I went out there that day, and I did that. And I remember the sense of accomplishment and just feeling if you just stick your mind to it one step in front of the other, one moment at a time, you're going to get through this. You can do anything for a couple of hours. And running in the community that's around, running just ended up being such an important part. People were so supportive. I was able to share parts of my story and my journey with people as we were running.
But I ran a half mile a day, three to four times a week. And then the next week I did it again. And then the next week I added a little bit of distance and I kept adding a little bit of distance and I would be out there for a little bit longer. Each time the weight started to come off, started to feel a little better. I had no idea that the running seed that was planted in my heart would then end up being such an important part of my recovery. And also. My reintegration back in from prison when I got out of prison in 2015.