Canyon Ridge Christian Church Podcast

MESSAGE NOTES: https://my.bible.com/events/49197407RESOURCES: https://www.canyonridge.org/Do you ever find yourself being overwhelmed by the expectations placed on you, whether it comes from family and friends, from the workplace, or even from yourself? When expectation comes from all different directions, it leads to exhaustion. In John 17:4, Jesus says, “I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do.” Jesus’ invitation to you is to discover your unique contribution in his direction, which becomes clearer when you learn to say no in order to say yes to the better thing. Every choice is a chance to encounter and partner with God, moving towards more meaningful and sustainable days.

MESSAGE NOTES: https://www.bible.com/events/49193788RESOURCES: https://www.canyonridge.org/

MESSAGE NOTES: http://bible.com/events/49190251RESOURCES: https://www.canyonridge.org/Have you noticed how different of a person you are today compared to a year ago? As a chapter ends and a new one begins, it is important to reflect on the past year with God's help to make sure that you are improving and walking in His direction! The book of James invites you to reflect on the year with an examen that focuses on the challenges, wisdom, and presence of the people around you! Where do you hope to grow in the year 2024? Who will you invite to help you stay accountable for that goal?

MESSAGE NOTES: http://bible.com/events/49187943RESOURCES: https://www.canyonridge.org/Take a new look at the story of the First Christmas and the unexpected encounters that took place - like Mary's favor, Joseph's revelation, and the shepherds' acknowledgment. This year, take time to appreciate Jesus and the unexpected joy that he brings and reimagine how His story can unexpectedly transform your life.

MESSAGE NOTES: https://my.bible.com/events/49184550RESOURCES: https://www.canyonridge.org/Do you ever feel like you receive but don't give back to your people and your community? Living a life with Jesus means being a giver, not just a receiver! Paul explains in Philippians 4:10-20 that there is Joy in giving; it prompts others in your community to do the same, and in contentment there is generosity! Write out verses 11-13 this week word for word as your prayer to God and invite him to reveal things that are and are not true in your life. What is he inviting you to do? Who will you invite to discover the joy of generosity?

MESSAGE NOTES: https://my.bible.com/events/49181282RESOURCES: https://www.canyonridge.org/Do you struggle to maintain joy during tough times? Remember, joy is not just an emotion but a mindset you can cultivate. Choose to take a posture of joy and focus on the good, even in challenging circumstances. Let Philippians 4:4 be your reminder to stay positive and start each day with a joyful heart. Appreciate God's kindness and always remember that He is with you. What step can you take today to cultivate joy in your life and remind yourself of God's presence?

Have you noticed that you experience joy when you put effort into finding it? God invites you to stay with him and his people to experience joy! Paul writes to the Philippians that effort does not give us a place with God, but that effort is needed to discover the most joy in our lives! Effort is not to earn or achieve but to experience and connect with Jesus and the people he puts in our lives! Have you embraced what God has done for you? Who will you take joy in making the effort to connect with?

Joy can be found in staying together and staying faithful to God! The bible has many examples of how Joy can be found by honoring one another. In Philippians 2, Paul shares the honor that he has for Timothy and Epaphroditus and how much joy is found in their presence! What will you do to create better connections for people to stay together and stay faithful to God? 

Have you noticed how serving, promoting, and advancing yourself for your gain doesn't bring about genuine joy? Paul writes in his letter to the Philippians that you can find faithful joy by living in the example set by the life of Jesus. You might try to find joy in jobs, money, or success, but by living a humble and serving life, your life fills with opportunities to find joy!