Church In The Valley - Ontario Ranch Campus

In this message compare and contrast the normal approach to self-esteem (which is to discover what people value, compare yourself and then try to gain honor amoung people by having what is valued) with the Bible's approach. In contrast, a believers' destiny grows out of God's rich love for us.

Our rebellious choices have brought trouble into the world, so life is full of difficulty. Courage, action and perseverance is required to overcome the chaos, but contrary to the movie, we can't do it all by our own resources, we need outside help.

We should live today with the end in mind and order our priorities to reflect what will last forever. This message considers how to create a buck list that reflects God's values.

A father who sets a godly example and instills discipline in an atmosphere of encouragement sets their children up for success in the face of adversity.

Jealousy ruins relationships and robs us of joy. Learn how God gives what we need to overcome it.

Themes in movies track the main issues we're dealing with in our culture. Good movies resonate with what we're going through in our world and in our lives. Real good movies resonate with us. God doesn't want his people to be isolated from the world or infiltrated by it - he wants us to be insulated from cultural ideas and values that will translate into harmful attitudes and actions.

This message looks at two major categories of speech - arrogant words and angry words. This message will focus on where harmful words come from and how to delete foolish talk and replace with wise words/responses that bless others.

The tongue, when left unchecked, can do great harm or can bring amazing benefits when brought under control. We will spend some time looking at how our words shape our future and how they impact others. The key to this message focuses on how to harness the tongue and use its power rightly.

Effective parenting is built on the right foundation. The Bible teaches about family and makes a practical difference in parenting.

When we allow resentment and bitterness to remain, we are "separated for the life of God". Life in the Spirit (we connect to the life of God through Him), grows the good fruit in our character and relationships.

Living with bitterness and conflict carries with it a high cost for relationships and personal well being. Learn to monitor the flow of bitterness in your life to overcome it. Discover the indicators of total forgiveness.

Peace emerges when we learn to dwell on the good and refuse to dwell on resentful and revengeful thoughts. By making a decision to forgive, we have the potential of moving forward to experience emotional forgiveness and restoration.

Through His teaching and example, Jesus has shown us the importance of forgiveness - both receiving it and relaying it to others. He closes the gap between God the Father and us - and shows us how to close the "injustice gap" between ourselves and others.

The Holy Spirit is the presence of God brought to bear on an individual's life. He provides the POWER to understand God's will and the POWER to act on it. His power flows through us as we walk in step with Him in daily life.

The Son is the member of the Trinity who carries out the plan of the Father. His role was to carry out the rescue mission to redeem fallen humanity, and we find out that He never stops working for us (He saved us and defends us when we sin in the present.) He is both the Pioneer of our faith and the Defender of it.

God the Father has a plan and He is watching over the details of our lives, weaving them into His plan. Though we often erect idols in our lives (relationships, possessions, position)...the Father watches for true worship. The Father is close but He will not force His will on us, but instead he creates choices that provide opportunities to respond.

There is a generosity ladder that God calls us to climb. For some people just beginning to give is the first step on the ladder, for others it's time to cross the tithing threshold unlocking God's blessing, for another group God desires that they excel in grace level giving (beyond the tithe).

Why should I save? How can I save? These questions must be answered to actually save money. As with giving, saving requires a plan.

Debt is such a common means of spending these days. God has a few warnings for us as we consider debt and some action steps for breaking free. Dealing with debt can never be dealt with passively.

God has us right where he wants us to be, he's accomplishing His purposes in our life and current financial circumstances. Learning contentment is found through Christ who gives us the strength to be satisfied where we are, instead of constantly comparing ourselves to where others are.