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Throughout the Old Testament, there’s a constant theme about “inquiring of the Lord.” We read that Joshua “did not inquire of the Lord” with the Gibeonites (Josh.9:14) which resulted in disaster. And yet, David was constantly “inquiring” (see 1 Sam 23:4; 9, 30:8; 2 Sam.2:1; 5:23; 6:14) And why? Because God continually gave him specific…

Over the years, a lot of people get confused about the Bible’s teachings on tithes and first-fruits. Part of this is because, there are actually three different types of tithes – which is distinct and separate from the idea of first-fruits. With over 2300 verses on giving, it’s easy to get confused. But to simply…

There’s no doubt about it, God has blessed me financially. A lot of people wonder, “Where did your money come from? Was it your books? Does the church pay you a lot?” Don’t get me wrong: I still drive a Jeep Wrangler and only own one house (despite what the internet might say). My biggest…

Recently, I did a message on how the small habits of our lives can have a dramatic impact on our future. I explained that the small financial decisions we make when we are young can have a dramatic impact as we get older. Thus, I ripped off an old Dave Ramsey (the financial guru), and…

If you are a college student or person in their twenties, you could easily become a multi-millionaire by the time you retire. And it’s not by “getting a high paying job” or a certain degree. Indeed, you could get a minimum wage job and still retire with ten million dollars by applying a few simple…

Over the years, especially every Good Friday, people ask me the question: “Where in the Bible does it say that Christ descended into hell?“ If you grew up in a good Catholic or Lutheran church, chances are you were forced to memorize the Apostles Creed, which says: “[Christ] was crucified, died and was buried,” followed by the…

Conflict happens to everyone; but, some people are better at managing it and resolving it!  Unfortunately, a lot of people end up burning through relationships unnecessarily because they lack “fighting skills.” But thankfully, the Bible gives us lot of advice on how to confront and deal with conflict! And so below you’ll find dozens of messages…

Over the years, I’ve taught a lot on Scripture memorization and meditation. In fact, one of the greatest ways to increase the prophetic voice of God in your life is by simply memorizing scripture. (And if you’re curious about why, be sure to check out one of my recent sermons on it here). I gave an…

In both the Old and New Testaments, God powerfully rewarded those who fasted: “Those who fast get healing” (Isa. 58).  Jesus said, “those who fast get power over demonic oppression” (Mk 9).  When Daniel fasted, God gave him understanding (Dan. 9). When Jesus started his earthly ministry, one of the first things he did was a…

Here at Substance, we start every year with a season of fasting. Of course, nobody HAS to fast; but, when you understand what the Bible teaches on fasting, you’ll realize that we “get to” fast.  It’s actually an incredible opportunity. In both the Old and New Testament, God powerfully rewarded those who fasted. “Those who…