Hey Ridge students and families!

On Sunday, we read Ephesians 4:1-16 in student groups. We really emphasized verse 4, which says, “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” Living a life worthy of God’s calling is a hard thing to reflect in your life.

Sometimes when we hear the word “worthy,” we struggle to compare it to perfection. Living a life worthy of God’s calling does not mean being perfect, because we cannot be perfect like God. It is living a life that reflects His love and peace and using your gifts to glorify Him.  God’s will is that we would faithfully use what He has provided us to glorify Him, serve others, and draw people closer to Jesus.

This Tuesday we will dive deeper into what it means to reflect God and be the salt and light of the earth. So this week, I encourage you to reread Ephesians 4 and Matthew 5:13-16. Reflect on the ways you could show God in what you’re doing. In your speech, actions, thoughts, and motives, make God the center of it all.

Have a blessed week!

Brooke Knowles
Ridge Students Intern

In the Gospel of Matthew, chapters 5-7, we find arguably the most famous sermon of all time, Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Covering subjects like the beatitudes, being salt and light, the Lord’s prayer, generosity, and more, Jesus’ words are just as important and applicable today as they were 2,000 years ago. Whether you’re exploring the Christian faith, a new or newer believer, or a longtime follower of Jesus, we invite you to join us for this 12-week journey as we seek to grow together as His disciples.

Jesus rejected the traditions of the Pharisees (vv. 21–48) and their practices (6:1–7:6). Six times Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said … But I tell you” (5:21–22, 27–28, 31–32, 33–34, 38–39, 43–44). These words make it clear that Jesus was presenting (a) what the Pharisees and teachers of the Law were saying to the people and, by contrast, (b) what God’s true intent of the Law was. This spelled out His statement (v. 20) that Pharisaic righteousness is not enough to gain entrance into the coming kingdom. 
– Dr. Barbieri, The Bible Knowledge Commentary

 “You have heard that it was said to our ancestors, Do not murder, and whoever murders will be subject to judgment. But I tell you, everyone who is angry with his brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Whoever insults his brother or sister, will be subject to the court. Whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be subject to hellfire. So if you are offering your gift on the altar, and there you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled with your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Reach a settlement quickly with your adversary while you’re on the way with him to the court, or your adversary will hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you will be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will never get out of there until you have paid the last penny.
– Matthew 5:21-26 (CSB)

You have heard that it was said to our ancestors, Do not murder,, and whoever murders will be subject to judgment.
– Matthew 5:21 (CSB)

Do not murder.
– Exodus 20:13 (CSB)

But I tell you, everyone who is angry with his brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Whoever insults his brother or sister, will be subject to the court. Whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be subject to hellfire.
– Matthew 5:22 (CSB) 

So if you are offering your gift on the altar, and there you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled with your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift.
– Matthew 5:23-24 (CSB)

The exhortation to be reconciled horizontally with one’s brother or sister is tied intimately to worship and devotion to God vertically.
– Dr. Jonathan Pennington, The Sermon on the Mount and Human Flourishing

Reach a settlement quickly with your adversary while you’re on the way with him to the court, or your adversary will hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you will be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will never get out of there until you have paid the last penny.
– Matthew 5:25-26 (CSB)

You have heard that it was said, Do not commit adultery. But I tell you, everyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of the parts of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of the parts of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.
– Matthew 5:27-30 (CSB)

“You have heard that it was said, Do not commit adultery.
– Matthew 5:27 (CSB)

Do not commit adultery
– Exodus 20:14 (CSB)

But I tell you, everyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
– Matthew 5:28 (CSB)

If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of the parts of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of the parts of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.
– Matthew 5:29-30 (CSB)

Jesus’ words recorded in Matthew 5:29–30 have often been misunderstood. Obviously Jesus was not teaching physical mutilation, for a blind man could have as much of a problem with lust as a sighted person, and a man with only one hand might use it also to sin. Jesus was advocating the removal of the inward cause of offense. Since a lustful heart would ultimately lead to adultery, one’s heart must be changed.
–Dr. Barbieri, The Bible Knowledge Commentary

God, create a clean heart for me and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
– Psalm 51:10 (CSB)

Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way.
– Psalm 139:23-24 (CSB)

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
– 1 John 1:9 (CSB) 

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Graves Into Gardens // My Eyes Have Seen // It is Well // It is Finished // Heart of Worship

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

In the Gospel of Matthew, chapters 5-7, we find arguably the most famous sermon of all time, Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Covering subjects like the beatitudes, being salt and light, the Lord’s prayer, generosity, and more, Jesus’ words are just as important and applicable today as they were 2,000 years ago. Whether you’re exploring the Christian faith, a new or newer believer, or a longtime follower of Jesus, we invite you to join us for this 12-week journey as we seek to grow together as His disciples.

“Don’t think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or one stroke of a letter will pass away from the law until all things are accomplished. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commands and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever does and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven.
– Matthew 5:17-20 (CSB) 

Don’t think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to abolish but to fulfill.
– Matthew 5:17 (CSB)

This section presents the heart of Jesus’ message, for it demonstrates His relationship to the Law of God. Jesus was not presenting a rival system to the Law of Moses and the words of the Prophets, but a true fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets, in contrast with the Pharisees’ traditions. “The Law and the Prophets” refer to the entire Old Testament.
– Dr. Barbieri, The Bible Knowledge Commentary

Fulfill, Fulfilled in Matthew 1–5
Matthew 1:22  “...to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet...”
Matthew 2:15  “...spoken by the Lord through the prophet might be fulfilled...”
Matthew 2:17  “...what was spoken through Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled...”
Matthew 2:23  “...to fulfill what was spoken through the prophets...”
Matthew 3:15  “...for us to fulfill all righteousness.”
Matthew 4:14  “This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah...”
Matthew 5:17  “I did not come to abolish but to fulfill.”

He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. As usual, He entered the synagogue on the Sabbath day and stood up to read. The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to Him, and unrolling the scroll, He found the place where it was written:
– Luke 4:16-17 (CSB) 

The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind,  to set free the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.
– Luke 4:18-19 (CSB) 

He then rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. And the eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fixed on Him. He began by saying to them, “Today as you listen, this Scripture has been fulfilled.”
– Luke 4:20-21 (CSB)

Don’t think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to abolish but to fulfill.
– Matthew 5:17 (CSB)

For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or one stroke of a letter will pass away from the law until all things are accomplished.
– Matthew 5:18 (CSB) 

 For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or one stroke of a letter will pass away from the law until all things are accomplished.
– Matthew 5:18 (CSB)

None of it will pass away or be discarded, he says, not a single letter or part of a letter, until it has all been fulfilled. And this fulfillment will not be complete until the heaven and the earth themselves pass away. For one day they will pass away in a mighty rebirth of the universe. Then time as we know it will cease, and the written words of God’s law will be needed no longer, for all things in them will have been fulfilled. Thus the law is as enduring as the universe. The final fulfilment of the one and the new birth of the other will coincide. Both will ‘pass away’ together (parelthē is repeated).
– Dr. John Stott, The Message of the Sermon on the Mount

Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commands and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever does and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
– Matthew 5:19 (CSB)

If you love Me, you will keep My commands.
– John 14:15 (CSB)

For I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven.
– Matthew 5:20 (CSB)

Christian righteousness far surpasses pharisaic righteousness in kind rather than in degree. It is not so much, shall we say, that Christians succeed in keeping some 240 commandments when the best Pharisees may only have scored 230. No. Christian righteousness is greater than pharisaic righteousness because it is deeper, being a righteousness of the heart.
– Dr. John Stott, The Message of the Sermon on the Mount

I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. I will place My Spirit within you and cause you to follow My statutes and carefully observe my ordinances.
– Ezekiel 36:26-27 (CSB)

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus,, because the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do since it was weakened by the flesh, God did. He condemned sin in the flesh by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh as a sin offering,, in order that the law’s requirement would be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.
– Romans 8:1-4 (CSB)

 When the Pharisees heard that He had silenced the Sadducees, they came together. And one of them, an expert in the law, asked a question to test Him: “Teacher, which command in the law is the greatest?”
– Matthew 22:34-36 (CSB)  

He said to Him, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind., This is the greatest and most important command. The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commands.
– Matthew 22:37-40 (CSB) 

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Let the People Sing // Made for More // Who Else // Simple Kingdom

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

In the Gospel of Matthew, chapters 5-7, we find arguably the most famous sermon of all time, Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Covering subjects like the beatitudes, being salt and light, the Lord’s prayer, generosity, and more, Jesus’ words are just as important and applicable today as they were 2,000 years ago. Whether you’re exploring the Christian faith, a new or newer believer, or a longtime follower of Jesus, we invite you to join us for this 12-week journey as we seek to grow together as His disciples.

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt should lose its taste, how can it be made salty? It’s no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled on by men. “You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket,  but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine  before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
– Matthew 5:13-16 (CSB)

We can make a significant impact on this world.

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt should lose its taste, how can it be made salty? It’s no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled on by men. “You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket,  but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine  before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
– Matthew 5:13-16 (HCSB)

For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift— not from works, so that no one can boast. For we are His creation, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them.
– Ephesians 2:8-10 (HCSB)

2. Both salt and light can be small and yet have a great impact.

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt should lose its taste, how can it be made salty? It’s no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled on by men.
– Matthew 5:13 (HCSB)

Jesus is apparently thinking of the function of salt as a preservative, as the enemy of decay, and as giving taste to food. What is good in society his followers keep wholesome. What is corrupt they oppose; they penetrate society for good and act as a kind of moral antiseptic. And they give a tang to life like salt to a dish of food.
– L. Morris

In the same way, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
– Matthew 5:16 (HCSB)

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light— for the fruit of the light results in all goodness, righteousness, and truth.
– Ephesians 5:8-9 (HCSB)

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt should lose its taste, how can it be made salty? It’s no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled on by men.
– Matthew 5:13 (HCSB)

No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket,  but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house.
– Matthew 5:15 (HCSB)

“Strictly speaking salt cannot lose its saltiness; sodium chloride is a stable compound. But most salt in the ancient world derived from salt marshes or the like, rather than by evaporation of salt water, and therefore contained many impurities. The actual salt, being more soluble than the impurities, could be leached out, leaving a residue so dilute it was of little worth. In modern Israel savorless salt is still said to be scattered on the soil of flat roofs. This helps harden the soil and prevent leaks; and since the roofs serve as playgrounds and places for public gathering, the salt is still being trodden under foot”
– Deatrick

“Loses its saltiness” reads more literally “is defiled.” This is not the scientifically impossible notion of salt becoming flavorless but rather the common problem in the ancient world of salt being mixed with various impure substances and therefore becoming worthless as a preservative.
– C. Blomberg

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

You've Already Won // You Keep Hope Alive // Great I Am // Great Are You Lord

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

In the Gospel of Matthew, chapters 5-7, we find arguably the most famous sermon of all time, Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Covering subjects like the beatitudes, being salt and light, the Lord’s prayer, generosity, and more, Jesus’ words are just as important and applicable today as they were 2,000 years ago. Whether you’re exploring the Christian faith, a new or newer believer, or a longtime follower of Jesus, we invite you to join us for this 12-week journey as we seek to grow together as His disciples.

When He saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain, and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him. Then He began to teach them, saying:
– Matthew 5:1-2 (CSB) 

“This is the greatest sermon ever preached by the greatest preacher who ever lived.”
– Dr. John Stott

Sermon on the Mount
Week 1 (9/13/26): Matthew 5:1-12
Week 2 (9/20/26): Matthew 5:13-16
Week 3 (9/27/26): Matthew 5:17-20
Week 4 (10/4/26): Matthew 5:21-30
Week 5 (10/11/26): Matthew 5:31-37
Week 6 (10/18/26): Matthew 5:38-48
Week 7 (10/25/26): Matthew 6:1-8, 16-18
Week 8 (11/1/26): Matthew 6:9-15  
Week 9 (11/8/26): Matthew 6:19-34
Week 10 (11/15/26): Matthew 7:1-12
Week 11 (11/22/26): Matthew 7:13-23
Week 12 (11/29/26): Matthew 7:24-29

The Beatitudes. The word “beatitude” is not used in the English Bible. It derives from the Latin beatitudo. “Beatitude” originally meant simply “blessedness,” “happiness,” “felicity.” In church usage the term came to refer to biblical declarations of blessedness (makarisms), particularly the Psalms but especially Jesus’ pronouncements of blessing.
– Dr. W.P. DeBoer

Blessed. In the New Testament the word “blessed” often translates makarios, meaning “blessed, fortunate, happy.” It occurs 50 times in the NT, most familiarly in the “beatitudes” in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Thus the NT concept stresses the joy people experience as children of God and citizens of the kingdom of God.”
– Holman Bible Dictionary

The truly blessed life is found in Jesus and His way, not the world’s way.

When He saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain, and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him. Then He began to teach them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the humble, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs. “You are blessed when they insult you and persecute you and falsely say every kind of evil against you because of Me. Be glad and rejoice, because your reward is great in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
– Matthew 5:1-12 (CSB) 

When He saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain, and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him. Then He began to teach them, saying:
– Matthew 5:1-2 (CSB) 

The beatitudes set out the balanced and diverse character of Christian people … Christ’s own specification of what every Christian ought to be. All these qualities are to characterize all his followers. Just as the ninefold fruit of the Spirit which Paul lists is to ripen in every Christian character, so the eight Beatitudes which Christ speaks describe his ideal for every citizen of God’s kingdom.
– Dr. John Stott

Beatitude #1
Matthew 5:3 (CSB) Blessed are the poor in spirit, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs.

These beatitudes regularly consist of two clauses, the first pronouncing blessedness upon a certain type of person, the second giving the reason or ground for such blessedness: “Blessed …, for.…”
– Dr. W.P. DeBoer

Beatitude #1
Matthew 5:3 (CSB) Blessed are the poor in spirit, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs.

Beatitude #2
Matthew 5:4 (CSB) Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

Beatitude #3
Matthew 5:5 (CSB) Blessed are the humble, for they will inherit the earth.

Beatitude #4
Matthew 5:6 (CSB) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Perhaps the simplest division is to see the first four as describing the Christian’s relation to God, and the second four the Christian’s relations and duties to other people.
– Dr. John Stott

Beatitude #5
Matthew 5:7 (CSB) Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.

Beatitude #6
Matthew 5:8 (CSB) Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

Beatitude #7
Matthew 5:9 (CSB) Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.

Beatitude #8
Matthew 5:10 (CSB) Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs. 

Beatitude #8
Matthew 5:10-12 (CSB) Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs. You are blessed when they insult you and persecute you and falsely say every kind of evil against you because of me. Be glad and rejoice, because your reward is great in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets who were before you. 

Christianity is not a scheme to reduce stress, lose weight, advance in one’s career, or preserve one from illness. Christian faith, instead, is a way of living based on the firm and sure hope that meekness is the way of God, that righteousness and peace will finally prevail, and that God‘s future will be a time of mercy and not cruelty. So, blessed are those who live this life now, even when such a life seems foolish, for they will, in the end, be vindicated by God.
– Dr. M. Eugene Boring

The truly blessed life is found in Jesus and His way, not the world’s way.

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Praise You Anywhere // Canvas and Clay // Follow // The Jesus Way

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What kind of person are you becoming? Real transformation isn't about trying harder—it's about letting the Holy Spirit work in your life. Nine is a nine-week journey through the fruit of the Spirit discovering how God grows qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and more in those who follow Jesus. 

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.
– Galatians 5:22-23 (CSB) 

Self-control (enkrateia) – temperance and moderation; Spirit-formed restraint over our thoughts, desires, words, and actions; the opposite of self-indulgence, excess, and slavery to sin.

Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary

Self-control. Modern translations’ term for several Greek words indicating a sober, temperate, calm, and dispassionate approach to life, having mastered personal desires and passions.

Biblical admonitions expect God‘s people to exercise self-control (Proverbs 25:28; 1 Corinthians 7:5; 1 Thessalonians 5:6; 1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 3:3; Galatians 5:23; 2 Timothy 1:7; Titus 1:8; 2 Peter 1:6).
 
Freedom in Christ does not give believers liberty to cast off all moral restraint as some members in Galatia and other churches apparently believed. Nor does it call for a withdrawal from life and its temptations. It calls for a self-disciplined life, following Christ's example of being in the world but not of the world.

Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. They do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable crown.
– 1 Corinthians 9:25 (CSB)

Now Israel loved Joseph more than his other sons because Joseph was a son born to him in his old age, and he made a long-sleeved robe for him. When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers, they hated him and could not bring themselves to speak peaceably to him. Then Joseph had a dream. When he told it to his brothers, they hated him even more.
– Genesis 37:3-5 (CSB)

Now Joseph was well-built and handsome. After some time his master’s wife looked longingly at Joseph and said, “Sleep with me.”
– Genesis 39:6b-7 (CSB)

But he refused. “Look,” he said to his master’s wife, “with me here my master does not concern himself with anything in his house, and he has put all that he owns under my authority. No one in this house is greater than I am. He has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. So how could I do this immense evil, and how could I sin against God?” Although she spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused to go to bed with her.
– Genesis 39:8-10 (CSB)

When his master heard the story his wife told him—“These are the things your slave did to me”—he was furious and had him thrown into prison, where the king’s prisoners were confined. So Joseph was there in prison.
– Genesis 39:19-20 (CSB)

When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said to one another, “If Joseph is holding a grudge against us, he will certainly repay us for all the suffering we caused him.”
– Genesis 50:15 (CSB) 

So they sent this message to Joseph, “Before he died your father gave a command: ‘Say this to Joseph: Please forgive your brothers’ transgression and their sin—the suffering they caused you.’ Therefore, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father.”
– Genesis 50:16-17a (CSB)

Joseph wept when their message came to him. His brothers also came to him, bowed down before him, and said, “We are your slaves!”
– Genesis 50:17b-18 (CSB)

But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You planned evil against me; God planned it for good to bring about the present result—the survival of many people. Therefore don’t be afraid. I will take care of you and your children.” And he comforted them and spoke kindly to them.
– Genesis 50:19-21 (CSB)

I say, then, walk by the Spirit and you will certainly not carry out the desire of the flesh.
– Galatians 5:16 (CSB) 

Remain in Me, and I in you. Just as a branch is unable to produce fruit by itself unless it remains on the vine, neither can you unless you remain in Me. I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me.
– John 15:4-5 (CSB)

Flee from youthful passions, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
– 2 Timothy 2:22 (CSB)

No temptation has come upon you except what is common to humanity. But God is faithful; he will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to bear it.
– 1 Corinthians 10:13 (CSB)

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed.
– James 5:16 (CSB) 

We need to rely on God, not self, for self-control.

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

God I Look to You // O What a Miracle // Death Was Arrested // From the Inside Out

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What kind of person are you becoming? Real transformation isn't about trying harder—it's about letting the Holy Spirit work in your life. Nine is a nine-week journey through the fruit of the Spirit discovering how God grows qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and more in those who follow Jesus. 

A gentle answer turns away anger, but a harsh word stirs up wrath.
– Proverbs 15:1 (CSB)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.
– Galatians 5:22-23 (CSB) 

Matthew 5:5 (CSB) Blessed are the humble, for they will inherit the earth.
Matthew 5:5 (KJV) Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
– Matthew 11:28-30 (CSB) 

Gentleness: using the least amount of force or power needed when dealing with people.
– Dr. Gerald Peterman

Meekness: moral quality of humility and gentleness, usually exhibited during suffering or difficulty and accompanied by faith in God. The opposite of meekness is a harsh and proud wickedness that insists on immediate self-vindication. While the KJV employs “meek” or “meekness” 31 times, most modern English translations of the Bible favor “gentle” or “humble.” Biblical meekness is usually not simply gentleness and humility but those qualities displayed with integrity during times of trial.
– Dr. Robert Plummer

As He was walking along the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter), and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. “Follow Me,” He told them, “and I will make you fish for people.” Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.
– Matthew 4:18-20 (CSB) 

While he was still speaking, suddenly a mob came, and one of the Twelve named Judas was leading them. He came near Jesus to kiss Him, but Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” When those around him saw what was going to happen, they asked, “Lord, should we strike with the sword?” Then one of them struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear. But Jesus responded, “No more of this!” And touching his ear, He healed him.
– Luke 22:47-51 (CSB) 

Who then will harm you if you are devoted to what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness, you are blessed. Do not fear them, or be intimidated,, but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.

Yet do this with gentleness and reverence, keeping a clear conscience, so that when you are accused, those who disparage your good conduct in Christ will be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.
– 1 Peter 3:13-17 (CSB) 

A gentle answer turns away anger, but a harsh word stirs up wrath.
– Proverbs 15:1 (CSB)

A ruler can be persuaded through patience, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.
– Proverbs 25:15 (CSB)

Therefore I, the prisoner in the Lord, urge you to walk worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love.
– Ephesians 4:1-2 (CSB) 

Therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and dearly loved, put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.
– Colossians 3:12 (CSB) 

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Praise the Lord // The Blood // Abandoned // The Strand // O Come to the Altar

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What kind of person are you becoming? Real transformation isn't about trying harder—it's about letting the Holy Spirit work in your life. Nine is a nine-week journey through the fruit of the Spirit discovering how God grows qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and more in those who follow Jesus. 

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.
– Galatians 5:22-23 (CSB)

For the Lord is good, and His faithful love endures forever; His faithfulness, through all generations.
– Psalm 100:5 (CSB)

For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift—not from works, so that no one can boast.
– Ephesians 2:8-9 (CSB) 

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
– 2 Timothy 4:7 (CSB)

This is why I have sent Timothy to you. He is my dearly loved and faithful child in the Lord. He will remind you about my ways in Christ Jesus, just as I teach everywhere in every church.
– 1 Corinthians 4:17 (CSB)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.
– Galatians 5:22-23 (CSB)

This is why I have sent Timothy to you. He is my dearly loved and faithful child in the Lord. He will remind you about my ways in Christ Jesus, just as I teach everywhere in every church.
– 1 Corinthians 4:17 (CSB) 

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will, for the sake of the promise of life in Christ Jesus: To Timothy, my dearly loved son. Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience as my ancestors did, when I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day. Remembering your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy.

I recall your sincere faith that first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and now, I am convinced, is in you also.
– 2 Timothy 1:1-5 (CSB)  

Now I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon so that I too may be encouraged by news about you. For I have no one else like-minded who will genuinely care about your interests; all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know his proven character, because he has served with me in the gospel ministry like a son with a father.
– Philippians 2:19-22 (CSB)

Timothy’s death is not recorded in the Bible. According to extrabiblical church tradition, Timothy remained in Ephesus for the rest of his life, until he was martyred for his faith. 

According to Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, “as the pagans were about to celebrate a feast called Catagogion, Timothy, meeting the procession, severely reproved them for their ridiculous idolatry, which so exasperated the people, that they fell upon him with their clubs, and beat him in so dreadful a manner, that he expired of the bruises two days after” (op. cit., p. 20).
– GotQuestions.org – “How Did Timothy Die?” 

Let us hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering, since he who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to provoke love and good works, not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching.
– Hebrews 10:23-25 (CSB)

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness
– 1 John 1:9 (CSB)

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a difficult time.
– Proverbs 17:17 (CSB)

Marriage is to be honored by all and the marriage bed kept undefiled, because God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers.
– Hebrews 13:4 (CSB)

His master said to him, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You were faithful over a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Share your master’s joy."
– Matthew 25:23 (CSB)

Because of the Lord’s faithful love we do not perish, for his mercies never end.
They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!
I say, “The Lord is my portion, therefore I will put my hope in Him.”
– Lamentations 3:22-24 (CSB) 

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Can't Help But Praise // My Hope Is In You // I Won't Forget // Great Is Your Faithfulness

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What kind of person are you becoming? Real transformation isn't about trying harder—it's about letting the Holy Spirit work in your life. Nine is a nine-week journey through the fruit of the Spirit discovering how God grows qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and more in those who follow Jesus. 

There is no one righteous, not even one. There is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God. All have turned away; all alike have become useless. There is no one who does what is good, not even one
– Romans 3:10-12 (HCSB)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.
– Galatians 5:22-23 (HCSB)

If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him.
– Romans 8:9b (HCSB)

Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness…
– Isaiah 5:20a (HCSB)

The acknowledgment of God as good is the foundation of all biblical thinking about moral goodness. ‘Good’ in Scripture is not an abstract quality, nor is it a secular human ideal; ‘good’ means first and foremost what God is (‘he is good’) then what he does, creates, commands and gives, and finally what he approves in the lives of his creatures.
– J.I. Packer

“Goodness is uprightness of heart, expressed in doing good for others, even when it is undeserved or difficult, such as calling out sin. [Goodness is] the opposite of evil, malice, and wickedness.”

Now Naomi had a relative on her husband’s side named Boaz. He was a prominent man of noble character from Elimelech’s family. Ruth the Moabitess asked Naomi, “Will you let me go into the fields and gather fallen grain behind someone who allows me to?” Naomi answered her, “Go ahead, my daughter.” So Ruth left and entered the field to gather grain behind the harvesters. She happened to be in the portion of land belonging to Boaz, who was from Elimelech’s family.
– Ruth 2:1-3 (HCSB)

Later, when Boaz arrived from Bethlehem, he said to the harvesters, “The Lord be with you.” “The Lord bless you,” they replied.
– Ruth 2:4 (HCSB)

Boaz asked his servant who was in charge of the harvesters, “Whose young woman is this?” The servant answered, “She is the young Moabite woman who returned with Naomi from the land of Moab. She asked, ‘Will you let me gather fallen grain among the bundles behind the harvesters?’ She came and has remained from early morning until now, except that she rested a little in the shelter.” Then Boaz said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter. Don’t go and gather grain in another field, and don’t leave this one, but stay here close to my female servants. See which field they are harvesting, and follow them. Haven’t I ordered the young men not to touch you? When you are thirsty, go and drink from the jars the young men have filled.” She bowed with her face to the ground and said to him, “Why are you so kind to notice me, although I am a foreigner?” Boaz answered her, “Everything you have done for your mother-in-law since your husband’s death has been fully reported to me: how you left your father and mother and the land of your birth, and how you came to a people you didn’t previously know. May the Lord reward you for what you have done, and may you receive a full reward from the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.
– Ruth 2:5-12

May the Lord reward you for what you have done, and may you receive a full reward from the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.
– Ruth 2:12

Kindness to the poor is a loan to the Lord, and He will give a reward to the lender.
– Proverbs 19:17

At midnight, Boaz was startled, turned over, and there lying at his feet was a woman! So he asked, “Who are you?” “I am Ruth, your slave,” she replied. “Spread your cloak over me, for you are a family redeemer.
– Ruth 3:8-9

Arabic parallels to the levirate marriage show that the near kinsman established his claim to the widow by throwing his garment over her.
– W.R. Smith

In general the meaning seems quite clearly to be a request for protection, with the specific meaning of marry me, but most translators and commentators prefer to retain the literal idiom “spread your skirt over your maidservant.” In a sense, both components of meaning, union and protection, are present
– J. de Waard

Yes, it is true that I am a family redeemer, but there is a redeemer closer than I am. Stay here tonight, and in the morning, if he wants to redeem you, that’s good. Let him redeem you. But if he doesn’t want to redeem you, as the Lord lives I will. Now lie down until morning.”  
– Ruth 3:12-13

He said to the redeemer, “Naomi, who has returned from the land of Moab, is selling a piece of land that belonged to our brother Elimelech. I thought I should inform you: Buy it back in the presence of those seated here and in the presence of the elders of my people. If you want to redeem it, do so. But if you do not want to redeem it, tell me so that I will know, because there isn’t anyone other than you to redeem it, and I am next after you.” “I want to redeem it,” he answered.
– Ruth 4:1-4

Then Boaz said, “On the day you buy the land from Naomi, you will also acquire Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of the deceased man, to perpetuate the man’s name on his property.”  The redeemer replied, “I can’t redeem it myself, or I will ruin my own inheritance. Take my right of redemption, because I can’t redeem it.”
– Ruth 4:5-6

The elders and all the people who were at the gate said, “We are witnesses. May the Lord make the woman who is entering your house like Rachel and Leah, who together built the house of Israel. May you be powerful in Ephrathah and famous in Bethlehem. May your house become like the house of Perez, the son Tamar bore to Judah, because of the offspring the Lord will give you by this young woman.”
– Ruth 4:11-12

Bethlehem Ephrathah, you are small among the clans of Judah; One will come from you to be ruler over Israel for Me. His origin is from antiquity, from eternity.
– Micah 5:2

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Stories // Evidence // No Longer Slaves // Goodness of God

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What kind of person are you becoming? Real transformation isn't about trying harder—it's about letting the Holy Spirit work in your life. Nine is a nine-week journey through the fruit of the Spirit discovering how God grows qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and more in those who follow Jesus. 

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.
– Galatians 5:22-23 (HCSB)

And don’t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless actions, but be filled by the Spirit speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music from your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear
of Christ.
– Ephesians 5:18-21 (HCSB)

For many days neither sun nor stars appeared, and the severe storm kept raging. Finally all hope that we would be saved was disappearing
– Acts 27:20 (HCSB)

But they struck a sandbar and ran the ship aground. The bow jammed fast and remained immovable, while the stern began to break up by the pounding of the waves.
– Acts 27:41 (HCSB)

Once ashore, we then learned that the island was called Malta. The local people showed us extraordinary kindness, for they lit a fire and took us all in, since it was raining and cold. As Paul gathered a bundle of brushwood and put it on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat and fastened itself to his hand. When the local people saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “This man is probably a murderer, and though he has escaped the sea, Justice does not allow him to live! However, he shook the creature off into the fire and suffered no harm. They expected that he would swell up or suddenly drop dead. But after they waited a long time and saw nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god.
– Acts 28:1-6 (HCSB)

The local people showed us extraordinary kindness, for they lit a fire and took us all in, since it was raining and cold.
– Acts 28:2 (HCSB)

Now in the area around that place was an estate belonging to the leading man of the island, named Publius, who welcomed us and entertained us hospitably for three days.
– Acts 28:7 (HCSB)

Publius’s father was in bed suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went to him, and praying and laying his hands on him, he healed him. After this, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were cured. So they heaped many honors on us, and when we sailed, they gave us what we needed.
– Acts 28:7-10 (HCSB)

“You have heard that it was said, Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. For He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward will you have? Don’t even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing out of the ordinary? Don’t even the Gentiles do the same? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
– Matthew 5:43-48 (HCSB)

KINDNESS OT translation of the Hebrew term chesed. Throughout the OT the idea of chesed is that of compassion and faithfulness to one’s obligations as well as to relatives, friends, and even to slaves. In the NT kindness is translated from the Greek word chrestotes. This word can describe gentleness, goodness, uprightness, generosity, and graciousness.
– Joe Cathey 

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Isn't He Good // My Hope Is In You (Live) // 10,000 Reasons (Bless The Lord) // Living Hope

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What kind of person are you becoming? Real transformation isn't about trying harder—it's about letting the Holy Spirit work in your life. Nine is a nine-week journey through the fruit of the Spirit discovering how God grows qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and more in those who follow Jesus. 

PROBLEM: We all have a story, or stories, in our minds about how things SHOULD go and the roles people SHOULD play. Then life doesn't go according to our script.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.
– Galatians 5:22-23 (HCSB)

Patience [noun]: the ability to act with restraint under provocation or strain; and the ability to persevere over a long period of time despite opposition, difficulty, or adversity.
– Merriam-webster.com

Trust the Author of the Greater Story

Trust the Author of the Greater Story

1. Trust the Author When You Can't See the Whole Story.

….. Have you considered My servant Job? No one else on earth is like him, a man of perfect integrity, who fears God and turns away from evil.
– Job 1:8 (HCSB)

He fell to the ground and worshiped, saying: “Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will leave this life. The Lord  gives, and the Lord takes away. Praise the name of Yahweh." Throughout all this Job did not sin or blame God for anything.
– Job 1:20-22 (HCSB)

...infected…with terrible boils from the soles of his feet to the top of his head. Then Job took a piece of broken pottery to scrape himself while he sat among the ashes.
– Job 2:7-8 (HCSB)

“…Should we accept only good from God and not adversity?" Throughout all this Job did not sin in what he said.
– Job 2:10 (HCSB)

"If only I had someone to hear my case!…let the Almighty answer me. Let my Opponent compose His indictment. I would surely carry it on my shoulder and wear it like a crown. I would give Him an account of all my steps…”
– Job 31:35-37 (HCSB)

Where were you when I established the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding.  Who fixed its dimensions? Certainly, you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? What supports its foundations? Or who laid its cornerstone while the morning stars sang together….?”
– Job 38:4-7 (HCSB)

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not My ways.” This is the Lord’s declaration. “For as heaven is higher than earth, so My ways are higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.”
– Isaiah 55:8-9 (HCSB)

Then Job replied to the Lord: I know that You can do anything and no plan of Yours can be thwarted. You asked, “Who is this who conceals My counsel with ignorance?” Surely, I spoke about things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know…
– Job 42:1-3 (HCSB)

Therefore, I take back my words and repent in dust and ashes.
– Job 42:6 (HCSB)

Trust the Author of the Greater Story

1. Trust the Author When You Can't See the Whole Story.
2. Trust the Author When the Characters Surprise You.

"Consider: Who has perished when he was innocent? Where have the honest been destroyed? In my experience, those who plow injustice and those who sow trouble reap the same."
– Job 4:7-8 (HCSB)

"If only you would shut up and let that be your wisdom!"
– Job 13:5 (HCSB)

"…. Miserable comforters are you all."
– Job 16:2 (HCSB)

After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and doubled his previous possessions.
– Job 42:10 (HCSB)

Trust the Author of the Greater Story

1. Trust the Author When You Can't See the Whole Story.
2. Trust the Author When the Characters Surprise You.
3. Trust the Author as He Shapes Your Character.

I am the true vine, and My Father is the vineyard keeper. Every branch in Me that does not produce fruit He removes, and He prunes every branch that produces fruit so that it will produce more fruit.
– John 15:1-2 (HCSB)

"Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing."
– James 1:2-4 (HCSB)

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

My Hope Is In You // Faithful Now // Way Maker // No Body

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What kind of person are you becoming? Real transformation isn't about trying harder—it's about letting the Holy Spirit work in your life. Nine is a nine-week journey through the fruit of the Spirit discovering how God grows qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and more in those who follow Jesus. 

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
– Galations 5:22-23 (ESV)

Peace isn’t the absence of trouble. Peace is the presence of God.

For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and of peace there will be no end.
– Isaiah 9:6-7a (ESV)

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased!”
– Luke 2:14 (ESV)

awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind
ceased, and there was a great calm.
– Mark 4:39 (ESV)

Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
– Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV)

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
– Matthew 5:9 (ESV)

When Lamech had lived 182 years, he fathered a son and called his name Noah, saying, “Out of the ground that the Lord has cursed, this one shall bring us relief from our work and
from the painful toil of our hands.”
– Genesis 5:28-29 (ESV)

This is the sign of the covenant that I make between Me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I have set My bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between Me and the earth. When I bring clouds over the earth and the bow is seen in the clouds, I will remember My covenant that is between Me and you and every living creature of all flesh. And the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh.
– Genesis 9:12-15 (ESV)

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
– Romans 5:1 (ESV)

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
– Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV)

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

I Believe // Peace Be Still // Nothing Else // Prince of Peace

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What kind of person are you becoming? Real transformation isn't about trying harder—it's about letting the Holy Spirit work in your life. Nine is a nine-week journey through the fruit of the Spirit discovering how God grows qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and more in those who follow Jesus. 

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.
— Galatians 5:22-23 (CSB)

Philippians is personal and practical in its tone and teaching. Paul emphasized the need for believers to rejoice in Christ. “Joy” (chara) is used four times (Phil. 1:4, 25; 2:2; 4:1); “rejoice” (chairō) occurs eight times (1:18 [twice]; 2:17–18; 3:1, 4:4 [twice], 10); and “glad” occurs thrice (2:17–18, 28).
— Dr. Robert Lightner, The Bible Knowledge Commentary

Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus: To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Indeed, it is right for me to think this way about all of you, because I have you in my heart, and you are all partners with me in grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. For God is my witness, how deeply I miss all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. And I pray this: that your love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment, so that you may approve the things that are superior and may be pure and blameless in the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God.
— Philippians 1:1-11 (CSB)

I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
— Philippians 1:3-6 (CSB) [Emphasis added]

Just one thing: As citizens of heaven, live your life worthy of the gospel of Christ.
— Philippians 1:27a (CSB) [Emphasis added]

 If, then, there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, make my joy complete by thinking the same way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look not to his own interests, but rather to the interests of others.
— Philippians 2:1-4 (CSB) [Emphasis added]

Now I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon so that I too may be encouraged by news about you. For I have no one else like-minded who will genuinely care about your interests; all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.
— Philippians 2:19-21 (CSB) [Emphasis added] 

Instead of concentrating on self, each believer should be concerned for the interests of others in the household of faith. Preoccupation with oneself is sin.
— Dr. Robert Lightner, The Bible Knowledge Commentary

So then, my dearly loved and longed for brothers and sisters, my joy and
crown, in this manner stand firm in the Lord, dear friends.
— Philippians 4:1 (CSB) [Emphasis added] 

I rejoiced in the Lord greatly because once again you renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it. I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself. I know how to make do with little, and I know how to make do with a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.
— Philippians 4:10-13 (CSB) [Emphasis added]

Paul said he could do everything - including handling poverty and living in abundance - through Him who gave him strength. This was not an expression of pride in his own abilities but a declaration of the strength provided by Christ.
— Dr. Robert Lightner, The Bible Knowledge Commentary

I tell you, in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who don’t need repentance.
— Luke 15:7 (CSB) [Emphasis added] 

I have told you these things so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.
— John 15:11 (CSB)  [Emphasis added] 

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
— Romans 15:13 (CSB)  

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

House Of The Lord // So Much // Trust In God // Yes I Will 

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What kind of person are you becoming? Real transformation isn't about trying harder—it's about letting the Holy Spirit work in your life. Nine is a nine-week journey through the fruit of the Spirit discovering how God grows qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and more in those who follow Jesus. 

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.
— Galatians 5:22-23 (CSB)

Fruit of the Spirit Context
1. “But” – works of the flesh vs. fruit of the Spirit

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity,  idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I am warning you about these things—as I warned you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.
— Galatians 5:19-23 (CSB) [Emphasis added]

In contrast to the Mosaic law that condemns the fruits of the flesh just listed, there is no law, Mosaic or otherwise, that condemns these positive virtues.
— Dr. Bill Mounce

Fruit of the Spirit Context
1. “But” – works of the flesh vs. fruit of the Spirit
2. “Fruit” – how Jesus described spiritual growth

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.
— Galatians 5:22-23 (CSB) [Epmhasis added]

I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without me.
— John 15:5 (CSB)

Fruit of the Spirit Context
1. “But” – works of the flesh vs. fruit of the Spirit
2. “Fruit” – how Jesus described spiritual growth
3. “Spirit” – God the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.
— Galatians 5:22-23 (CSB) [Emphasis added]

The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.
— Luke 4:18-19 (CSB)

Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. You, however, are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to him.
— Romans 8:8-9 (CSB)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.
— Galatians 5:22-23 (CSB) [Emphasis added]

“It is noteworthy that the list begins with “love” … Love, produced by the Spirit, should set the tone for all that occurs in the community’s life together. (cf. Galatians 5:6, 13; 1 Corinthians 13).
— Dr. Richard Hays

Now these three remain: faith, hope, and love—but the greatest of these is love.
— 1 Corinthians 13:13 (CSB)

Dear friends, let us love one another, because love is from God, and everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, because God is love. God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his one and only Son into the world so that we might live through him. Love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice, for our sins.
— 1 John 4:7-10 (CSB)  

For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
— John 3:16 (CSB)  

When the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they came together. And one of them, an expert in the law, asked a question to test him: “Teacher, which command in the law is the greatest?”
— Matthew 22:34-36 (CSB)  

He said to him, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and most important command.
— Matthew 22:37-38 (CSB)  

The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commands."
— Matthew 22:39-40 (CSB)  

“I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another.
— John 13:34 (CSB)

By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
— John 13:35 (CSB)

I will sing about the Lord’s faithful love forever; I will proclaim your faithfulness to all generations with my mouth.
— Psalm 89:1 (CSB)

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

This Is Our God // How Great Is Your Love // Jesus Paid It All // I Could Sing Of Your Love Forever

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What if this summer could strengthen your relationship with God and others? Psalms for the Summer is a 4-week journey through the Psalms as we discover how praise, creation, family, and community can help us experience the goodness of God all season long.

Problem:
We tend to drift toward isolation and division.

Takeaway:
“Light the grill” and deepen your relationships this summer.

A song of ascents. Of David. 
How delightfully good when brothers live together in harmony!
It is like fine oil on the head, running down on the beard, running down Aaron’s beard onto his robes. It is like the dew of Hermon falling on the mountains of Zion. For there the Lord has appointed the blessing—life forevermore.
— Psalm 133 (CSB)

A song of ascents. Of David.
— Psalm 133 (CSB)

How delightfully good when brothers live together in harmony!
— Psalm 133:1 (CSB) [Emphasis added]

It is like fine oil on the head, running down on the beard, running down Aaron’s beard onto his robes.
— Psalm 133:2 (CSB) [Emphasis added]

The oil poured on Aaron’s head flowed down on his beard and shoulders, and onto the breastplate with the names of all 12 tribes. The oil thus symbolized the unity of the nation in worship under their consecrated priest. As the oil consecrated Aaron, so the unity of the worshipers in Jerusalem would consecrate the nation under God.
– Dr. Allen Ross

The Lord spoke to Moses:  “Take for yourself the finest spices: 12½ pounds of liquid myrrh, half as much (6¼ pounds) of fragrant cinnamon, 6¼ pounds of fragrant cane,  12½ pounds of cassia (by the sanctuary shekel), and a gallon of olive oil.  Prepare from these a holy anointing oil, a scented blend, the work of a perfumer; it will be holy anointing oil.   “With it you are to anoint the tent of meeting, the ark of the testimony,  the table with all its utensils, the lampstand with its utensils, the altar of incense,  the altar of burnt offering with all its utensils, and the basin with its stand.  Consecrate them and they will be especially holy. Whatever touches them will be consecrated.  Anoint Aaron and his sons and consecrate them to serve me as priests.
— Exodus 30:22-30 (CSB)

He poured some of the anointing oil on Aaron’s head and anointed and consecrated him
— Leviticus 8:12 (CSB)

It is like fine oil on the head, running down on the beard, running down Aaron’s beard onto his robes.
— Psalm 133:2 (CSB) [Emphasis added]

It is like the dew of Hermon falling on the mountains of Zion. For there the Lord has appointed the blessing—life forevermore.
— Psalm 133:3 (CSB) [Emphasis added]

May they all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us, so that the world may believe you sent me.
— John 17:21 (CSB) 

So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand people were added to them.  They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer.  Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and signs were being performed through the apostles.  Now all the believers were together and held all things in common.  They sold their possessions and property and distributed the proceeds to all, as any had need.  Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with joyful and sincere hearts,  praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. Every day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
— Acts 2:41-47 (CSB) 

Our vision is to be an inviting church that leads people into a growing relationship with God and others, every day. 

“Light the grill” and deepen your relationships this summer.

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Can't Help But Praise// You Keep Hope Alive // How Great Is Your Name // Worthy Of It All // Praise The Lord Forever

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What if this summer could strengthen your relationship with God and others? Psalms for the Summer is a 4-week journey through the Psalms as we discover how praise, creation, family, and community can help us experience the goodness of God all season long.

Problem:
We sometimes struggle to see and treat kids as gifts from the Lord.

Takeaway:
“Pass the ball” this summer because kids are gifts from the Lord.

“Pass the ball” this summer because kids are gifts from the Lord.
Psalm 127:1-2 – Without the Lord, life is vain, vain, vain…
Psalm 127:3-5 – Children are a gift from the Lord

A song of ascents. Of Solomon.
1 Unless the Lord builds a house, its builders labor over it in vain; unless the Lord watches over a city, the watchman stays alert in vain. 2 In vain you get up early and stay up late, working hard to have enough food—yes, he gives sleep to the one he loves., 3 Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord, offspring, a reward. 4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the sons born in one’s youth. 5 Happy is the man who has filled his quiver with them. They will never be put to shame when they speak with their enemies at the city gate.
— Psalm 127 (CSB)

Psalm 127
A song of ascents. Of Solomon.

Superscription: An inscription or heading often used in ancient texts and manuscripts, including those in the Bible.
– Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary

The title “song of ascents” identifies each of Psalms 120 – 134 as a pilgrim song to be sung when the Israelites “ascended” (went up) to Jerusalem for the annual feasts. Four of these 15 psalms are ascribed to David (Pss. 122; 124; 131; 133), 1 to Solomon (Ps. 127), and the other 10 are anonymous.  
– Dr. Allen Ross, The Bible Knowledge Commentary

Solomon: Tenth son of David and the second son of Bathsheba, Solomon became the third king of Israel and reigned 40 years about 1000 B.C.

Solomon was born to David and Bathsheba after the death of their first son (2 Sam. 12:24). Although not the oldest living son of David, he was crowned king after his mother and Nathan the prophet intervened with David and secured David’s decision to have Solomon succeed him (1 Kings 1–2). Solomon is remembered most for his wisdom, his building program, and his wealth generated through trade and administrative reorganization. Solomon was remembered as having 3,000 proverbs and 1,005 songs in his repertoire (1 Kings 4:32).
– Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary

“Pass the ball” this summer because kids are gifts from the Lord.
Psalm 127:1-2 – Without the Lord, life is vain, vain, vain…

1 Unless the Lord builds a house, its builders labor over it in vain; unless the Lord watches over a city, the watchman stays alert in vain. 2 In vain you get up early and stay up late, working hard to have enough food—yes, he gives sleep to the one he loves.
— Psalm 127:1-2 (CSB)

1 The words of the Teacher,, son of David, king in Jerusalem. 2 “Absolute futility,” says the Teacher. “Absolute futility. Everything is futile.” 3 What does a person gain for all his efforts that he labors at under the sun?
— Ecclesiastes 1:1-3 (CSB)

Psalm 127:1-2 – “Vain”
Shav – emptiness, worthlessness, or effort that accomplishes nothing.

Ecclesiastes 1:2 – “Futility”
Hevel – literally breath or vapor; something fleeting, elusive, impossible to grasp.

This Psalm emphasizes the importance of relying on the Lord for purpose and meaning in every aspect of life. Hard work and personal goals in life are important; however, depending on anything or anyone other than the Lord for purpose and success is vain. Any labor undertaken to meet one’s needs, no matter how industrious, if undertaken in a manner and for a purpose inconsistent with God‘s Word will in the end be unsatisfying and even unsuccessful.
–The Moody Bible Commentary

“Pass the ball” this summer because kids are gifts from the Lord.
Psalm 127:1-2 – Without the Lord, life is vain, vain, vain…
Psalm 127:3-5 – Children are a gift from the Lord

3 Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord, offspring, a reward. 4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the sons born in one’s youth. 5 Happy is the man who has filled his quiver with them. They will never be put to shame when they speak with their enemies at the city gate.
— Psalm 127:3-5 (CSB) {Emphasis added]

“Heritage”
Nahalah – an inheritance, possession, or gift received from another.

In the agrarian culture of Israel, children were the key to a successful family, and the absence of offspring was a family disaster. The point is that, if God does give children, they are to be viewed as a gift (lit. “the inheritance or property”) of the Lord. This inheritance He has in turn entrusted to human parents for proper care and nurture, both physically and spiritually. Children, the fruit of the womb, are a reward, because only the Lord can create life. Godly people throughout the Scriptures valued, protected, and taught their children as the Lord commanded (cf. Deut. 6:4-9). This does not suggest that children are the only or even the best gift God can give, or that if one does not or cannot have children is lacking an important gift of God and is somehow less favored by Him.
– The Moody Bible Commentary

3 Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord, offspring, a reward. 4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the sons born in one’s youth. 5 Happy is the man who has filled his quiver with them. They will never be put to shame when they speak with their enemies at the city gate.
— Psalm 127:3-5 (CSB)

Children are compared to arrows in the hand of a warrior, for like arrows, adult children could provide protection for the family in times of danger. Depending on how these arrows (children) are shaped, drawn, and aimed, they might either miss the intended target or hit it on the bull’s-eye (cf. the principle in Proverbs 22:6).
– The Moody Bible Commentary

6 Start a youth out on his way; even when he grows old he will not depart from it.
— Proverbs 22:6 (CSB)

3 Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord, offspring, a reward. 4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the sons born in one’s youth. 5 Happy is the man who has filled his quiver with them. They will never be put to shame when they speak with their enemies at the city gate.
 — Psalm 127:3-5 (CSB) [Emphasis added]

Court proceedings, social interactions, and commercial transactions normally took place in the gates of a city.
– HCSB Study Bible

See what great love the Father has given us that we should be called God’s children—and we are!
— 1 John 3:1a (CSB) 

“Pass the ball” this summer because kids are gifts from the Lord.
Psalm 127:1-2 – Without the Lord, life is vain, vain, vain…
• Response: Stay connected to Jesus (John 15:1-8)

5 I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without me.
— John 15:5 (CSB) 

“Pass the ball” this summer because kids are gifts from the Lord.

Psalm 127:1-2 – Without the Lord, life is vain, vain, vain…
• Response: Stay connected to Jesus (John 15:1-8)

Psalm 127:3-5 – Children are a gift from the Lord
• Response: Ask God to help you see and treat kids like Jesus did (Matthew 19:13-15)

13 Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 Jesus said, “Leave the little children alone, and don’t try to keep them from coming to me, because the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”, 15 After placing his hands on them, he went on from there.
— Matthew 19:13-15 (CSB) 

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Who is Like The Lord // Who Else // Revelation Song // So Will I (100 Billion x)

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What if this summer could strengthen your relationship with God and others? Psalms for the Summer is a 4-week journey through the Psalms as we discover how praise, creation, family, and community can help us experience the goodness of God all season long.

While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, his spirit was troubled within him when he saw that the city was full of idols.
– Acts 17:16

For God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against all godlessness and unrighteousness of people who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.
– Romans 1:18

For God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against all godlessness and unrighteousness of people who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. since what can be known about God is evident among them, because God has shown it to them. For His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, being understood through what He has made. As a result, people are without excuse. For though they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God or show gratitude.
– Romans 1:18-21

Instead, their thinking became nonsense, and their senseless minds were darkened.  Claiming to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man, birds, four-footed animals, and reptiles.
— Romans 1:22-23

The fool says in his heart, “God does not exist.”
– Psalm 14:1a

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky proclaims the work of His hands. 2 Day after day they pour out speech; night after night they communicate knowledge. 3 There is no speech; there are no words; their voice is not heard. 4 Their message has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens He has pitched a tent for the sun. 5 It is like a groom coming from the bridal chamber; it rejoices like an athlete running a course. 6 It rises from one end of the heavens and circles to their other end; nothing is hidden from its heat.  
— Psalm 19:1-6

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky proclaims the work of His hands.
– Psalm 19:1

The instruction of the Lord is perfect, renewing one’s life; the testimony of the Lord is trustworthy, making the inexperienced wise.
— Psalm 19:7

“[General revelation is] the revelation of God to all people, at all times, and in all places that proves that God exists and that He is intelligent, powerful, and transcendent. Special revelation is how God has chosen to reveal Himself through miraculous means. Special revelation includes physical appearances of God, dreams, visions, the written Word of God, and most importantly—Jesus Christ.”
– gotquestions.org

Therefore take care how you listen. For whoever has, more will be given to him; and whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken away from him.”
— Luke 8:18

God’s revelation is clear

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky proclaims the work of His hands.
– Psalm 19:1

“The Inca were well known to all as worshippers of the sun – deified as Inti and, in fact, there is a temple to Inti at Machu Picchu.
Pachacuti began to notice how the sun always follows a set path, performs definite tasks, and keeps certain hours as does a laborer. He also noted that the radiance of the sun can be dimmed by any passing cloud. He reasoned that if Inti were indeed truly God no mere created thing could dim his light.”
— thewanderingscot.com

It is like a groom coming from the bridal chamber; it rejoices like an athlete running a course. It rises from one end of the heavens and circles to their other end; nothing is hidden from its heat.  
— Psalm 19:5-6

God’s revelation is clear.
God’s revelation is continuous.

Day after day they pour out speech; night after night they communicate knowledge.
– Psalm 19:2 [Emphasis added]

“Each day talks about God’s glory to the next day. Every night shares its knowledge of God with the following night.”
– Bratcher & Reyburn

God’s revelation is clear.
God’s revelation is continuous.
God's revelation is copious.

Day after day they pour out speech; night after night they communicate knowledge.
– Psalm 19:2 [Emphasis added]

[The phrase, “pour out speech”] is stronger in the Hebrew text than it appears to be in English, for the image is literally of a gushing spring that copiously pours forth the sweet, refreshing waters of revelation.
– J.M. Boice

God’s revelation is clear.
God’s revelation is continuous.
God's revelation is copious.
God's revelation is common. 

There is no speech; there are no words; their voice is not heard. Their message has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens He has pitched a tent for the sun. It is like a groom coming from the bridal chamber; it rejoices like an athlete running a course. It rises from one end of the heavens and circles to their other end; nothing is hidden from its heat.
— Psalm 19:3-6

There is no speech; there are no words; their voice is not heard.
– Psalm 19:3

Yahweh, our Lord, how magnificent is Your name throughout the earth! You have covered the heavens with Your majesty. Because of Your adversaries, You have established a stronghold from the mouths of children and nursing infants to silence the enemy and the avenger. When I observe Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You set in place, what is man that You remember him, the son of man that You look after him?  You made him little less than God and crowned him with glory and honor. You made him lord over the works of Your hands; You put everything under his feet: all the sheep and oxen, as well as the animals in the wild, the birds of the sky, and the fish of the sea that pass through the currents of the seas. Yahweh, our Lord, how magnificent is Your name throughout the earth!  
— Psalm 8:1-9

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Who is Like The Lord // Who Else // Revelation Song // So Will I (100 Billion x)

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

What if this summer could strengthen your relationship with God and others? Psalms for the Summer is a 4-week journey through the Psalms as we discover how praise, creation, family, and community can help us experience the goodness of God all season long.

Background to the Psalms: The word “psalm” comes from the Greek word psalmos which means a song or a hymn. The Hebrew word for the book is tehillim, which means “praises.”

The book contains a collection of 150 songs from Hebrew religious life and worship, songs dear to the people’s hearts and reflective of their personal experiences. One could say the Psalms represent an ancient songbook of God‘s people.
– Encountering the Old Testament, p. 280

Billboard Hot 100 – Top 10 (June 6, 2026)

#1 (Drake), #2, #3 (Ella Langley), #4 (Drake)
#5 (Olivia Rodrigo), #6 (Drake ft. Future & Molly Santana), #7 (Olivia Dean), #8 (Bruno Mars), #9 (Drake), #10 (Olivia Dean)

1 Sing a new song to the Lord; let the whole earth sing to the Lord.
2 Sing to the Lord, bless his name; proclaim his salvation from day to day.
3 Declare his glory among the nations, his wondrous works among all peoples.
4 For the Lord is great and is highly praised; he is feared above all gods.
5 For all the gods of the peoples are worthless idols, but the Lord made the heavens.
6 Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.
7 Ascribe to the Lord, you families of the peoples, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
8 Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name; bring an offering and enter his courts.
9 Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; let the whole earth tremble before him.
10 Say among the nations, “The Lord reigns. The world is firmly established; it cannot be shaken. He judges the peoples fairly.”
11 Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice; let the sea and all that fills it resound.
12 Let the fields and everything in them celebrate. Then all the trees of the forest will shout for joy
13 before the Lord, for he is coming—for he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness and the peoples with his faithfulness.
— Psalm 96 (CSB)

1 Sing a new song to the Lord; let the whole earth sing to the Lord.
2 Sing to the Lord, bless his name; proclaim his salvation from day to day.
3 Declare his glory among the nations, his wondrous works among all peoples.
— Psalm 96:1-3 (CSB)

4 For the Lord is great and is highly praised; he is feared above all gods.
5 For all the gods of the peoples are worthless idols, but the Lord made the heavens.
6 Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.
— Psalm 96:4-6 (CSB)

Mentioning these “gods” (idols) does not acknowledge their reality. It is a statement of God’s sovereignty and superiority over every force, real and imagined. Everything in Creation, including things the pagans venerated as gods, the Lord made, and therefore He has power over it all.
–Dr. Allen Ross, The Bible Knowledge Commentary

7 Ascribe to the Lord, you families of the peoples, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
8 Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name; bring an offering and enter his courts.
9 Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; let the whole earth tremble before him.
— Psalm 96:7-9 (CSB)

1 Ascribe to the Lord, you heavenly beings, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. 2 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness
— Psalm 29:1-2 (CSB)

Why We Sing (summer 2025)

• Week 1: We sing … to declare God’s greatness
• Week 2: We sing … to thank God for His blessings
• Week 3: We sing … to obey God
• Week 4: We sing … to encourage one another
• Week 5: We sing … to learn and carry God’s truth
• Week 6: We sing … to join Heaven’s eternal song

7 Ascribe to the Lord, you families of the peoples, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
8 Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name; bring an offering and enter his courts.
9 Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; let the whole earth tremble before him.
— Psalm 96:7-9 (CSB)

10 Say among the nations, “The Lord reigns. The world is firmly established; it cannot be shaken. He judges the peoples fairly.”
— Psalm 96:10 (CSB)

11 Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice; let the sea and all that fills it resound.
12 Let the fields and everything in them celebrate. Then all the trees of the forest will shout for joy 13 before the Lord, for he is coming—for he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness and the peoples with his faithfulness.
— Psalm 96:13 (CSB)

Psalms such as this must have been uplifting for the psalmists as they have been for believers of all ages. Many psalms express a longing for the Lord to destroy wickedness and establish righteousness on the earth. The laments of the psalmists will no more be uttered when the Lord reigns in righteousness and truth.
– Dr. Allen Ross, The Bible Knowledge Commentary

8 Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy—dwell on these things.
— Philippians 4:8 (CSB)

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Let The People Sing // The Lord Will Provide // O Praise The Name (Anástasis) // Great Are You Lord

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

Deepfake is a four-week series through the four chapters of 2nd Timothy. Just as AI-generated “deepfakes” can look real but aren’t, we live in a world full of ideas, beliefs, and value systems being presented to us as true and for our good, when in reality they are false and destructive. In this letter from the apostle Paul to Timothy, his son in the faith, Paul warns and encourages him to hold on to the truth in a world full of lies and deception. Though “deepfakes” are all around us, we can confidently stand on God’s unchanging Word.

 I solemnly charge you before God and Christ Jesus, who is going to judge the living and the dead, and because of his appearing and his kingdom: 2 Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and teaching. 3 For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, will multiply teachers for themselves because they have an itch to hear what they want to hear. 4 They will turn away from hearing the truth and will turn aside to myths. 5 But as for you, exercise self-control in everything, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. 6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time for my departure is close. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 There is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me, but to all those who have loved his appearing.
— 2 Timothy 4:1-8 (CSB)

I solemnly charge you before God and Christ Jesus, who is going to judge the living and the dead, and because of his appearing and his kingdom: 2 Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and teaching.
— 2 Timothy 4:1-2 (CSB)

3 For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, will multiply teachers for themselves because they have an itch to hear what they want to hear. 4 They will turn away from hearing the truth and will turn aside to myths.
— 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (CSB)

For error to flourish both sides of the transaction must cooperate.
– Dr. A.D. Litfin, The Bible Knowledge Commentary.

5 But as for you, exercise self-control in everything, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
— 2 Timothy 4:5 (CSB)

6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time for my departure is close.
— 2 Timothy 4:6 (CSB)

7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 There is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me, but to all those who have loved his appearing.
— 2 Timothy 4:7-8 (CSB)

In Roman athletic games, a laurel wreath, or crown, would be given to each winner. A symbol of triumph and honor, it was the most coveted prize in ancient Rome. Paul uses this analogy when he writes of a “crown of righteousness”.
– Life Application Study Bible

9 Make every effort to come to me soon, 10 because Demas has deserted me, since he loved this present world, and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. 11 Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry. 12 I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus. 13 When you come, bring the cloak I left in Troas with Carpus, as well as the scrolls, especially the parchments. 14 Alexander the coppersmith did great harm to me. The Lord will repay him according to his works. 15 Watch out for him yourself because he strongly opposed our words. 16 At my first defense, no one stood by me, but everyone deserted me. May it not be counted against them. 17 But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that I might fully preach the word and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil work and will bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever! Amen.
— 2 Timothy 4:9-18 (CSB)

9 Make every effort to come to me soon, 10 because Demas has deserted me, since he loved this present world, and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. 11 Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry. 12 I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus.
— 2 Timothy 4:9-12 (CSB)

13 When you come, bring the cloak I left in Troas with Carpus, as well as the scrolls, especially the parchments.
— 2 Timothy 4:13 (CSB)

14 Alexander the coppersmith did great harm to me. The Lord will repay him according to his works. 15 Watch out for him yourself because he strongly opposed our words.
— 2 Timothy 4:14-15 (CSB)

16 At my first defense, no one stood by me, but everyone deserted me. May it not be counted against them. 17 But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that I might fully preach the word and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.
— 2 Timothy 4:16-17 (CSB)

 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil work and will bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever! Amen.
— 2 Timothy 4:18 (CSB)

6 So we are always confident and know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. 7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 In fact, we are confident, and we would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.
— 2 Corinthians 5:6-8 (CSB)

19 Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.
— 2 Timothy 4:19 (CSB)

20 Erastus has remained at Corinth; I left Trophimus sick at Miletus.
— 2 Timothy 4:20 (CSB)

21 Make every effort to come before winter. Eubulus greets you, as do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers and sisters.
— 2 Timothy 4:21 (CSB)

22 The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you all.
— 2 Timothy 4:22 (CSB)

Dear God, I acknowledge that I have sinned and need a Savior. I believe that Jesus died on the cross for my sins and rose from the dead. Today, I place my trust in Jesus for the forgiveness of sins and the gift of eternal life. I come to You in Jesus’ name and because of what He did for me. Amen.

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Battle Belongs // Trustworthy // Holy Forever // Follow // Shout To The Lord // 10,000 Reasons (Bless The Lord)

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

Deepfake is a four-week series through the four chapters of 2nd Timothy. Just as AI-generated “deepfakes” can look real but aren’t, we live in a world full of ideas, beliefs, and value systems being presented to us as true and for our good, when in reality they are false and destructive. In this letter from the apostle Paul to Timothy, his son in the faith, Paul warns and encourages him to hold on to the truth in a world full of lies and deception. Though “deepfakes” are all around us, we can confidently stand on God’s unchanging Word.

Practice the Truth
• 2 Timothy 3:1-9, Difficult Times Ahead
• 2 Timothy 3:10-17, Struggles In The Christian Life

But know this: Hard times will come in the last days. 2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, proud, demeaning, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 unloving, irreconcilable, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, without love for what is good, 4 traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 holding to the form of godliness but denying its power. Avoid these people. 6 For among them are those who worm their way into households and deceive gullible women overwhelmed by sins and led astray by a variety of passions, 7 always learning and never able to come to a knowledge of the truth. 8 Just as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so these also resist the truth. They are men who are corrupt in mind and worthless in regard to the faith. 9 But they will not make further progress, for their foolishness will be clear to all, as was the foolishness of Jannes and Jambres.
— 2 Timothy 3:1-9 (CSB)

But know this: Hard times will come in the last days.
— 2 Timothy 3:1 (CSB)

As in his previous letter, Paul warned Timothy about the collapse predicted for the last days (cf. 1 Tim. 4:1–3), a term which includes the entire period between the first century and Christ’s return. During this interim, according to the prediction, the world will see terrible times of societal degeneration. Paul gave an extraordinary list of 19 general characteristics believers should expect.
–The Bible Knowledge Commentary

2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, proud, demeaning, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 unloving, irreconcilable, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, without love for what is good, 4 traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 holding to the form of godliness but denying its power. Avoid these people.
— 2 Timothy 3:2-5 (CSB) [Emphasis added]

6 For among them are those who worm their way into households and deceive gullible women overwhelmed by sins and led astray by a variety of passions, 7 always learning and never able to come to a knowledge of the truth. 8 Just as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so these also resist the truth. They are men who are corrupt in mind and worthless in regard to the faith. 9 But they will not make further progress, for their foolishness will be clear to all, as was the foolishness of Jannes and Jambres.
— 2 Timothy 3:6-9 (CSB)

According to tradition, Jannes and Jambres were two of the magicians who had counterfeited Moses’s miracles before Pharaoh (Exodus 7:11-12). Paul explained that just as Moses had exposed and defeated them (Exodus 8:18-19), God will overthrow the false teachers who were plaguing the Ephesian church.
– Life Application Study Bible

Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.”
— 1 Corinthians 15:33 (CSB)

Practice the Truth
• 2 Timothy 3:1-9, Difficult Times Ahead
• 2 Timothy 3:10-17, Struggles In The Christian Life

10 But you have followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, and endurance, 11 along with the persecutions and sufferings that came to me in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. What persecutions I endured—and yet the Lord rescued me from them all. 12 In fact, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. 13 Evil people and impostors will become worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed. You know those who taught you, 15 and you know that from infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures, which are able to give you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is inspired by God, and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
— 2 Timothy 3:10-17 (CSB)

10 But you have followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, and endurance, 11 along with the persecutions and sufferings that came to me in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. What persecutions I endured—and yet the Lord rescued me from them all.
— 2 Timothy 3:10-12 (CSB)

12 In fact, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. 13 Evil people and impostors will become worse, deceiving and being deceived.
— 2 Timothy 3:12-13 (CSB)

18 “If the world hates you, understand that it hated me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own. However, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of it, the world hates you.
— John 15:18-19 (CSB)

12 In fact, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. 13 Evil people and impostors will become worse, deceiving and being deceived.
— 2 Timothy 3:12-13 (CSB)

14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed. You know those who taught you, 15 and you know that from infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures, which are able to give you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
— 2 Timothy 3:14-15 (CSB)

I recall your sincere faith that first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and now, I am convinced, is in you also.
— 2 Timothy 1:5 (CSB)

16 All Scripture is inspired by God, and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
— 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (CSB)

The Scriptures are inspired (lit. ‘God-breathed’) and as such are God’s Word. This implies inerrancy in both historical fact and in doctrine. God superintended the writing of Scripture by His Spirit without blotting out the human author’s personality, style, or vocabulary. Yet the result was the Word of God.
– The Moody Bible Commentary

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Same God // From The Inside Out // Abandoned // I've Witnessed It

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

Deepfake is a four-week series through the four chapters of 2nd Timothy. Just as AI-generated “deepfakes” can look real but aren’t, we live in a world full of ideas, beliefs, and value systems being presented to us as true and for our good, when in reality they are false and destructive. In this letter from the apostle Paul to Timothy, his son in the faith, Paul warns and encourages him to hold on to the truth in a world full of lies and deception. Though “deepfakes” are all around us, we can confidently stand on God’s unchanging Word.

All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
– 2 Timothy 3:16-17

The instruction of the Lord is perfect, renewing one’s life; the testimony of the Lord is trustworthy, making the inexperienced wise. 8 The precepts of the Lord are right, making the heart glad; the command of the Lord is radiant, making the eyes light up. 9 The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are reliable and altogether righteous.
–  Psalm 19:7-9

1. Lean on the grace Christ provides

You, therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
– 2 Timothy 2:1

I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me. 
– Philippians 4:13

2. Listen to the faithful leaders you have come to trust.

And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses (in other words, the things you have heard me teach), commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. – 2 Timothy 2:2

3. Look out for the opposition that is sure to come.

Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
– 2 Timothy 2:3

In fact, all those who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.
– 2 Timothy 3:12

4. Leave arguments before they “break out.”

To start a conflict is to release a flood; stop the dispute before it breaks out
– Proverbs 17:14

But reject foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they breed quarrels. The Lord’s slave must not quarrel, but must be gentle to everyone, able to teach, and patient.
– 2 Timothy 2:23-24

But avoid irreverent, empty speech, for this will produce an even greater measure of godlessness. 17 And their word will spread like gangrene; Hymenaeus and Philetus are among them. 18 They have deviated from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already taken place, and are overturning the faith of some.
– 2 Timothy 2:16-18

5. Learn to correctly interpret God’s Word.

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed, correctly teaching the word of truth. 
– 2 Timothy 2:15

6. Live out your faith in community.

Flee from youthful passions, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
– 2 Timothy 2:22

7. Lovingly correct those who oppose you

instructing his opponents with gentleness.  Perhaps God will grant them repentance  leading them to the knowledge of the truth. 26 Then they may come to their senses and escape the Devil’s trap,  having been captured by him to do his will.
– 2 Timothy 2:25-26  

• Discernment in a digital world:
Pastor Tim talked about being misled by clickbait and AI-generated stories. Where do you personally notice it’s hardest to tell truth from deception online, and what helps you slow down before believing or sharing something?

• Spiritual maturity and influence:
Pastor Tim warned about being drawn toward voices that are exciting or popular but not always grounded in truth. How can we tell the difference between spiritual maturity and spiritual “flashiness,” and what helps us stay anchored in what is faithful over time?

• Faith under pressure:
In what ways does culture today create pressure—subtle or direct—to drift away from biblical truth? How do passages like Proverbs 17:14 challenge how we handle conflict or cultural tension?

• Spiritual habits that guard truth:
Pastor Tim emphasized leaning on grace, staying in community, and correctly handling Scripture. Which of the “protect the truth” practices do you feel strongest in right now, and which one needs more attention?

• Living truth with humility and grace:
The message warns against false teaching but also calls for gentle correction. How do we hold firmly to truth while still treating people with patience and love, especially when we strongly disagree?

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Stories // This I Believe // My Eyes Have Seen // Firm Foundation (He Won't)

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

Deepfake is a four-week series through the four chapters of 2nd Timothy. Just as AI-generated “deepfakes” can look real but aren’t, we live in a world full of ideas, beliefs, and value systems being presented to us as true and for our good, when in reality they are false and destructive. In this letter from the apostle Paul to Timothy, his son in the faith, Paul warns and encourages him to hold on to the truth in a world full of lies and deception. Though “deepfakes” are all around us, we can confidently stand on God’s unchanging Word.

Pass on the Truth
• 2 Timothy 1:1-2, Greeting 

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will, for the sake of the promise of life in Christ Jesus: To Timothy, my dearly loved son. Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
— 2 Timothy 1:1-2 (CSB)

First Timothy, Second Timothy, Titus: We now turn from the Thessalonian letters, which are among the earliest Pauline letters we possess, to three epistles that most likely date from the very end of Paul’s life: 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus. These three are sometimes called the Pastoral Epistles. The term, coined in the 18th century, is fitting for two reasons. First, all three letters show pastoral concern for their recipients, Timothy and Titus. Second, all three deal with pastoral matters involving the care of souls and the orderly conduct of God’s people in the church as well as in the world.
— Encountering the New Testament, p. 321

Occasion for Writing: Paul’s second imprisonment would have been the occasion for writing 2 Timothy, in which Paul alludes to his chains (1:8, 2:9). Shortly after writing 2 Timothy, Paul apparently suffered death by beheading during persecutions instigated by the “degenerate madness” of the Roman emperor Nero.
— Encountering the New Testament, p. 321

I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience as my ancestors did, when I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day. Remembering your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy. I recall your sincere faith that first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and now, I am convinced, is in you also. Therefore, I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power,, love, and sound judgment.
— 2 Timothy 1:3-7 (CSB)

Paul went on to Derbe and Lystra, where there was a disciple named Timothy, the son of a believing Jewish woman, but his father was a Greek. The brothers and sisters at Lystra and Iconium spoke highly of him.
— Acts 16:1-2 (CSB)

Evil people and impostors will become worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed. You know those who taught you, and you know that from infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures, which are able to give you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
— 2 Timothy 2:13-15 (CSB)

So don’t be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, or of me his prisoner. Instead, share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God. He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. This has now been made evident through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who has abolished death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. For this gospel I was appointed a herald, apostle, and teacher, and that is why I suffer these things. But I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that he is able to guard what has been entrusted to me, until that day.
— 2 Timothy 1:8-12 (CSB) 

Hold on to the pattern of sound teaching that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Guard the good deposit through the Holy Spirit who lives in us. You know that all those in the province of Asia have deserted me, including Phygelus and Hermogenes. May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains. On the contrary, when he was in Rome, he diligently searched for me and found me. May the Lord grant that he obtain mercy from him on that day. You know very well how much he ministered at Ephesus.
— 2 Timothy 1:13-18 (CSB)

“May the Lord bless you and protect you; may the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; may the Lord look with favor on you and give you peace.”
— Numbers 6:24-26 (CSB) 

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Stories // So Much // It Is Well // Breathe

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

The world feels heavy for a lot of people right now. Stress, anxiety, relationships, busyness, and constant pressure can leave us overwhelmed. Living Light is a timely three-week series about how faith in Christ, sharing life with others, and wise limits can truly help lighten the load. This isn’t a “try harder” or “do better” series; it’s an opportunity to slow down, reflect on God’s Word, and take steps toward living in a more sustainable, enjoyable way.

“We’ve stretched the limits in nearly every area of life, and we’re paying the price.”
– Alan Briggs, AntiBurnout. 

Living Light
Week 3:  Healthy limits lighten the load.

Moses’s father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian, heard about everything that God had done for Moses and for God’s people Israel when the Lord brought Israel out of Egypt.
– Exodus 18:1 (CSB)

So Moses went out to meet his father-in-law, bowed down, and then kissed him. They asked each other how they had been and went into the tent. 8 Moses recounted to his father-in-law all that the Lord had done to Pharaoh and the Egyptians for Israel’s sake, all the hardships that confronted them on the way, and how the Lord rescued them.
– Exodus 18:7-8 (CSB)

The next day Moses sat down to judge the people, and they stood around Moses from morning until evening. 14 When Moses’s father-in-law saw everything he was doing for them he asked, “What is this you’re doing for the people? Why are you alone sitting as judge, while all the people stand around you from morning until evening?”
– Exodus 18:13-14 (CSB)

¹³ The next day Moses sat down to judge the people, and they stood around Moses from morning until evening. ¹⁴ When Moses’s father-in-law saw everything he was doing for them he asked, “What is this you’re doing for the people? Why are you alone sitting as judge, while all the people stand around you from morning until evening?”
¹⁵ Moses replied to his father-in-law, “Because the people come to me to inquire of God. ¹⁶ Whenever they have a dispute, it comes to me, and I make a decision between one man and another. I teach them God’s statutes and laws.”
¹⁷ “What you’re doing is not good,” Moses’s father-in-law said to him. 18 “You will certainly wear out both yourself and these people who are with you, because the task is too heavy for you. You can’t do it alone. ¹⁹ Now listen to me; I will give you some advice, and God be with you. You be the one to represent the people before God and bring their cases to him. ²⁰ Instruct them about the statutes and laws, and teach them the way to live and what they must do. ²¹ But you should select from all the people able men, God-fearing, trustworthy, and hating dishonest profit. Place them over the people as commanders of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens. ²² They should judge the people at all times. Then they can bring you every major case but judge every minor case themselves. In this way you will lighten your load,[a] and they will bear it with you. ²³ If you do this, and God so directs you, you will be able to endure, and also all these people will be able to go home satisfied.”[b]
²⁴ Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said. ²⁵ So Moses chose able men from all Israel and made them leaders over the people as commanders of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens. ²⁶ They judged the people at all times; they would bring the hard cases to Moses, but they would judge every minor case themselves.
²⁷ Moses let his father-in-law go, and he journeyed to his own land.
– Exodus 18:13-27 (CSB)

“As officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens (words used of those in military rank) they were to serve in various levels of civil courts to hear cases of varying degrees of importance.”
– Bible Knowledge Commentary

Living Light
Week 1: Jesus came to carry our load, starting with the burden of sin.

Living Light
Week 2: As brothers and sisters in Christ, we need one another.

"What you're doing is not good"
– Exodus 18:17a (CSB)

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Stories // So Much // It Is Well // Breathe

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

The world feels heavy for a lot of people right now. Stress, anxiety, relationships, busyness, and constant pressure can leave us overwhelmed. Living Light is a timely three-week series about how faith in Christ, sharing life with others, and wise limits can truly help lighten the load. This isn’t a “try harder” or “do better” series; it’s an opportunity to slow down, reflect on God’s Word, and take steps toward living in a more sustainable, enjoyable way.

Living Light
Week 1:  Jesus came to carry our load, starting with the burden of our sin.

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
— Matthew 11:28-30

Living Light
Week 2: As brothers and sisters in Christ, we need one another.

“I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
— John 13:34-35 [emphasis added]

“This is my command: Love one another as I have loved you.”
— John 15:12 [emphasis added]

“This is what I command you: Love one another.”
— John 15:17 [emphasis added]

 “To love others was not a new commandment (Leviticus 19:18), but to love others as much as Jesus loved others was revolutionary. Now we are to love others based on Jesus’ sacrificial love for us.”
— Life Application Study Bible, note on John 13:34

As brothers and sisters in Christ, we need one another.
✅ Practice the “one anothers” that strengthen relationships
1) Serve one another 

The end of all things is near; therefore, be alert and sober-minded for prayer. Above all, maintain constant love for one another, since love covers a multitude of sins.  Be hospitable to one another without complaining. Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve others, as good stewards of the varied grace of God. If anyone speaks, let it be as one who speaks God’s words; if anyone serves, let it be from the strength God provides, so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.
— 1 Peter 4:7-11

As brothers and sisters in Christ, we need one another.
✅ Practice the “one anothers” that strengthen relationships 
1) Serve one another 
2) Encourage one another 

Let us hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering, since he who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to provoke love and good works, not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching.
— Hebrews 10:23-25

As brothers and sisters in Christ, we need one another.
✅ Practice the “one anothers” that strengthen relationships 
1) Serve one another 
2) Encourage one another
3) Forgive one another 

Let all bitterness, anger and wrath, shouting and slander be removed from you, along with all malice. And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.
— Ephesians 4:31-32

Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.  

Let us not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith.
— Galatians 6:2, 9-10

As brothers and sisters in Christ, we need one another.
✅ Practice the “one anothers” that strengthen relationships 
❌ Abstain from the “one anothers” that destroy relationships
1) Do not lie to one another 

Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self. You are being renewed in knowledge according to the image of your Creator.
— Colossians 3:9-10

As brothers and sisters in Christ, we need one another.
✅ Practice the “one anothers” that strengthen relationships 
❌ Abstain from the “one anothers” that destroy relationships 
1)  Do not lie to one another
2) Do not “bite” one another (to their face)

But if you bite and devour one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another.

Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
— Galatians 5:15, 26

As brothers and sisters in Christ, we need one another.
✅ Practice the “one anothers” that strengthen relationships 
❌ Abstain from the “one anothers” that destroy relationships 
1)  Do not lie to one another
2) Do not “bite” one another (to their face)
3) Do not speak evil against one another (behind their back)

Don’t criticize one another, brothers and sisters.
— James 4:11a

Let all bitterness, anger and wrath, shouting and slander be removed from you, along with all malice.
— Ephesians 4:31

As brothers and sisters in Christ, we need one another.
✅ Practice the “one anothers” that strengthen relationships 
❌ Abstain from the “one anothers” that destroy relationships 

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

House of The Lord // 1,000 Names // No Longer Slaves // Song of The Saints

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.

The world feels heavy for a lot of people right now. Stress, anxiety, relationships, busyness, and constant pressure can leave us overwhelmed. Living Light is a timely three-week series about how faith in Christ, sharing life with others, and wise limits can truly help lighten the load. This isn’t a “try harder” or “do better” series; it’s an opportunity to slow down, reflect on God’s Word, and take steps toward living in a more sustainable, enjoyable way.

Cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.  
— Psalm 55:22

[Cast] all your care on Him, because He cares about you.
– 1 Peter 5:7

“Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. All of you, take up My yoke and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for yourselves. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
– Matthew 11:28-30 [Emphasis added]

When Jesus had finished giving orders to His 12 disciples, He moved on from there to teach and preach in their towns.
— Matthew 11:1

Then the eyes of the blind will be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then the lame will leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute will sing for joy…
— Isaiah 35:5-6a

This is the one it is written about: Look, I am sending My messenger ahead of You; he will prepare Your way before You.
– Matthew 11:10 [Emphasis added]

“John answered them all, “I baptize you with water, but One is coming who is more powerful than I. I am not worthy to untie the strap of His sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
— Luke 3:16

He came to His own,  and His own people did not receive Him. But to all who did receive Him, He gave them the right to be children of God, to those who believe in His name.
– John 1:11-12

“To what should I compare this generation? It’s like children sitting in the marketplaces who call out to each other: We played the flute for you, but you didn’t dance; we sang a lament, but you didn’t mourn! For John did not come eating or drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon!’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is vindicated by her deeds.”
– Matthew 11:16-19

Then He proceeded to denounce the towns where most of His miracles were done, because they did not repent.
— Matthew 11:20

At that time Jesus said, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned and revealed them to infants. Yes, Father, because this was Your good pleasure.
– Matthew 11:25-26

All things have been entrusted to Me by My Father.
— Matthew 11:27a

There is nothing that might be exempted from… “All things: earth, heaven, and hell; men, angels, and devils; time, death, and eternity; all things: salvation and damnation; grace and judgment; life and death; all things: truth, righteousness, glory, peace, and joy, consolation and refreshing, rest and hope, deliverance from sin, victory in temptation, overcoming the world, communion with God, the love of God, the life in God—all things have been delivered unto him. He is the almighty Lord, the Giver of divine gifts of grace, the Executor of all divine works, the Prince of life, and therefore the Captain of our salvation.”
— R.C. Lenski, quoting Petri

 “Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. All of you, take up My yoke and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for yourselves. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
– Matthew 11:28-30

“Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
— Matthew 11:28 [Emphasis added]

“The Pharisees all said ‘Do!’ and tried to make the people follow Moses and the traditions. But true salvation is found only in a Person, Jesus Christ. To come to Him means to trust Him. This invitation is open to those who are exhausted and burdened down. That is exactly how the people felt under the yoke of pharisaical legalism. 
– W. Wiersbe

All of you, take up My yoke and learn from me
– Matthew 11:29a [Emphasis added]

For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
 – Matthew 11:30

“In rabbinic Judaism, a ‘yoke’ symbolized a rabbi's interpretation of the law and the lifestyle that their disciples were expected to adopt.’”

“They tie up heavy loads that are hard to carry and put them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves aren’t willing to lift a finger to move them.”  
— Matthew 23:4

To “take a yoke” in that day meant to become a disciple. When we submit to Christ, we are yoked to Him. The word “easy” means “well-fitting”; He has just the yoke that is tailor-made for our lives and needs. The burden of doing His will is not a heavy one.
– W. Wiersbe

Paradoxically those who take Christ’s yoke on them have rest, rest now and eternal rest in the hereafter
— L. Morris

Throughout this Gospel there is an emphasis on learning, on being a disciple, and the like, and the verb here is cognate with “disciple”; it means “learn through instruction.” To be a follower of Jesus is to be a disciple and therefore a learner
— L. Morris

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

The King Is In The Room // Raise A Hallelujah // Great I Am // 'Tis So Sweet / Turn Your Eyes // God Really Loves Us

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity. We cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.