Fourthstream - Finding Hope
Fourthstream.com weekly podcasts are focused on non-religious, kingdom spirituality. Kingdom spirituality: a state of experiencing an authentic connection with God resulting in a satisfied mind. Insights into authentic spirituality: King first - then Kingdom - then church.
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S10E9 - Come To Me
11/18/2025
S10E9 - Come To Me
When Jesus appeared on earth He engaged 100% in His mission. He was sent by His Father (Father-Son-Holy Spirit) to buy back the lost souls of mankind and to offer escape to every son of Adam and daughter of Eve. He extends Kingdom partnership to any and all who see the need and live out the same heart of rescue Jesus embraced. This is the nature of deep connectivity with the purposes of our King. Let's break down Jesus' words in Matthew 11:28-29. These words give us incredible practical insight into experiencing connectivity with the King of the earth. “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-29 COME TO ME Walk toward me and follow my ways. Walk WITH me. Choose daily to leave futility and move toward meaning. WEARY & HEAVY LADEN Move beyond the tough work of being human and the weights of the accumulations of this life. Beyond toil, loss, fear, anger, and hopelessness into the "light" of God. REST I give you upward satisfaction and hope for an unburdened forever. The meaning you long for is found in following Me, My example, and living out your own faith, hope and love. MY YOKE Come and lift with me and share (and relieve) the weight of never-ending toil - knowing you are not alone and your strivings have purpose. Together we plant seeds, cultivate the Kingdom crop, and prepare for an incredible eternal harvest. GENTLE & HUMBLE IN HEART I have come to where you are. I understand you. I forgive your weaknesses and your sin. I AM grace. I bring you your freedom. EASY & LIGHT My yoke is offered to help make the load bearable. "A yoke is a wooden crosspiece that is fastened over the necks of two." I am pulling with you and for you. As we follow Jesus' example we become a community of light: "...for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light."Ephesians 5:8 THE BIG PICTURE WE SHARE IN: Because of the mercies of God we have been included and invited to things beyond our wildest dreams. Paul discusses this in 1 Corinthians 15:20-28. In His resurrection, (has any other religious figure in all of history accomplished such a documented feat of conquering death? - No), we find what no one else can offer. It is in the death of death we find our greatest hope. "But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep. For since by a man came death, by a man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive. But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, after that those who are Christ’s at His coming, then comes the end, when He hands over the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power. For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. The last enemy that will be abolished is death. For He has put all things under His feet. But when He says, “All things are put in subjection,” it is evident that He is excepted who put all things in subjection to Him (the Father). When all things are subjected to Him, then the Son Himself also will be subjected to the One who subjected all things to Him, so that God may be all in all." Following Jesus is all about connectivity. We find the way, the truth, and the life by following in His teachings and His footsteps. We come to Him and invite others to do the same. And there is no pressure in this. "So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth." 1 Corinthians 3:7 Come to Me. This is peace, meaning, and rest to the fullest extent! Dave and Burnadette More:
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S10E8 - Believe In Me
11/11/2025
S10E8 - Believe In Me
Knowing Jesus is very personal. Even though millions have and will believe in Him, every relationship is individual. Unique. Filled with potential for personal honor. Jesus' disciple John watched all of this unfold with his own eyes, and several decades later wrote down his gospel so that we, too, could experience belief that would be able to sustain us in this life and carry us into the life to come. This growing belief (faith) helps us to interact for our own personal spirituality. John used the word "believe" to describe this in his gospel and his letters. Believe means to entrust ourselves to Him and have confidence in the power and truth of His Words. In this podcast we contemplate what it looks like to have growing faith in Jesus. It doesn't matter what background story you have - your ability to believe is a gift from God - if you want it! To do this we follow some of the "thread" John includes in his Gospel. This can help us unfold the hundreds of examples and teachings through the stories found in the Word of God. JESUS IS THE FOOD & WATER OF LIFE Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst." (John 6:35) “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’” (John 7:38) In short (and long) Jesus is the One Who sustains us. We can come to Him for spiritual food (see John 6) and by believing in Him have received the water of life which has been placed within us. This allows us to live lives of continual reconnection with our Father-Creator. THE GROWTH OF OUR FAITH "...but if I do these works, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, so that you may know and understand that the Father is in Me, and I in the Father.” (John 10:38) When speaking with the woman at the well: Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25) So He feeds us spiritual food in this life, sustains us with living water placed within us (the Spirit), and gives us the gift of resurrection after this life is finished. We will NEVER die! THIS PROCESS BEGINS THE MOMENT WE BELIEVE We now move into a life based upon Light rather than darkness. No longer are we groping around - we have the lamp of God showing us our path through darkness and into light. “I have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes in Me will not remain in darkness." (John 12:46) This includes living above and beyond fear, which is a huge gift found through believing. In John 14:1 Jesus says “Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me." WE BECOME CONDUITS OF LIFE TO THOSE AROUND US “I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me." (John 17:20) This is cool: “The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; nor is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things; and He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation, that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and exist, as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we also are His children.’ “Being then the children of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and thought of man. Therefore having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent, because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead.” (Acts 17:24-31) Belief in Jesus is a life-giving process that once begun - never ends! I begin to learn about my Father through my believing Jesus connection, and over and over again find myself "...drawing near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16) Lots of turbulence around us for sure! Peace to your believing heart! Dave and Burnadette More:
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S10E7 - The Mysteries
11/04/2025
S10E7 - The Mysteries
How do you navigate true mysteries? What things are already known? What is becoming known as the story unfolds? While the Word of God is plain concerning most things, there are also aspects of God's will which are filled with unfolding mystery. This occurs on a global scale (no man knows the hour or the day) while throughout time things continue unfolding personally - generation after generation (such as people awakening to God). About God mystery: “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:8/the first and the last "And the four living creatures, each one of them having six wings, are full of eyes around and within; and day and night they do not cease to say, Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God, the Almighty, Who was and Who is and Who is to come." Revelation 4:8/the true story of time. At the center of mystery is the Bride of Jesus. This Bride is made up of all who are being purified for the greatest wedding of all time (Then he said to me, “Write, ‘Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.’” And he said to me, “These are true words of God.” Revelation 19:9) "Of this church I was made a servant according to the stewardship from God placed upon on me for your benefit, so that I might fully carry out the preaching of the word of God, that is, the mystery which has been hidden from the past ages and generations, but has now been made plain to His saints. Those whom God willed to make known the nature of the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ. For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me." Colossians 1:25-29 Let's return to Matthew and to Jesus' Kingdom parables where He takes the time to present the nature of the Kingdom to His current and future disciples (followers). Each metaphor gives us insight into what He is doing and where we fit into His plans for us - as we find ears to hear and eyes to see. They unfold mystery for each one of our souls. The Sower (Matthew 13:18-23) teaches us why things are the way they are. Seeds, soil, sower. Hours of meditating for our ears and eyes as we seek to hear and see. The Wheat and the Weeds (Matthew 13:24-31) helps us contemplate why there is so much deceptive turmoil in the world. These "tares" were weeds that were almost indistinguishable from the crop, and ripping them out would wreck the harvest crop. The Mustard Seed (Matthew 13:31-32) Though small it exceeded all seeds in growing power. We function based upon appearance. God considers fruit and crops. The Leaven (Matthew 13:33) Jesus is the mystery ingredient. His Spirit animates our spiritual growth. It transforms the bread. It transforms us. The Treasure (Matthew 13:44) What a great story about value! True treasure means real value. It transforms our approach. Where we set our heart. The Dazzling Pearl (Matthew 13:45-46) This pearl transcended most treasure. It was birthed and grown by God and discovered by men. Once valued it became the apple of this dealer's eye. The Dragnet (Matthew 13:47-50) Here we return to the end of the age when all "fish" will be brought in by dragnet and sorted out. So many mysteries - so little time. Don't fall into the trap of casting our King and His mysteries as lackluster or boring. When our eyes are open to true value the world of our soul animates! √ We will reign with Him. (2 Timothy 2:12) √ All things will be made new. (Revelation 21:5) √ We will share His glory. (Revelation 19:7) √ We will know as we have been known! (1 Corinthians 13:12; 1 John 3:2) This is so cool! "Who is the man who fears the Lord? He will instruct him in the way he should choose. His soul will abide in prosperity, and his descendants will inherit the land. The secret (circle) of the Lord is for those who fear Him, and He will make them know His covenant. My eyes are continually toward the Lord, for He will pluck my feet out of the net." Psalm 25:12-15 Enjoying the unfolding mystery with you! Dave and Burnadette
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S10E6 - Eyes to See
10/28/2025
S10E6 - Eyes to See
What does it mean to see with spiritual eyes? Because we are created in God's image we have body, soul, spirit, heart, mind, and conscience. From this amazing mixture comes our ability to live out His greatness. When Adam and Eve disobeyed the Lord God we dishonored Him. Our inherent greatness would now become a millstone of self-perpetuation and arrogance. We would no longer see the world through our God-eyes. Paul summarized this well: "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures." Romans 1:18-23 In Isaiah 6:1-3 we find the prophetic backdrop for all Jesus did to rescue mankind. "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners; to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord..." In the prophets we find the root reason and purpose for the miracles of Jesus. "Now hear this, O foolish and senseless people, who have eyes but do not see; who have ears but do not hear. Do you not fear Me?’ declares the Lord. Do you not tremble in My presence?" Jeremiah 5:21-22 "Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, “Son of man, you live in the midst of the rebellious house, who have eyes to see but do not see, ears to hear but do not hear; for they are a rebellious house." Ezekiel 12:1,2 God wants us to have open spiritual eyes and ears. Notice that the only two-step miracle of Jesus occurs in context of this same "eyes and ears" quote from the prophets in the book of Mark: And they came to Bethsaida. And they brought a blind man to Jesus and implored Him to touch him. Taking the blind man by the hand, He brought him out of the village; and after spitting on his eyes and laying His hands on him, He asked him, “Do you see anything?” And he looked up and said, “I see men, for I see them like trees, walking around.” Then again He laid His hands on his eyes; and he looked intently and was restored, and began to see everything clearly. And He sent him to his home, saying, “Do not even enter the village.” Mark 8:22-26 Now return to Isaiah 9: "The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land - the light will shine on them...For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders. His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His dominion or of peace, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will accomplish this." What does all of this mean? √ Jesus explains to His disciples why He speaks in parables. (Matthew 13:10-17/He wants us to see and hear) √ He gives the parable of the sower so we can understand the "big picture." √ He then explains the mysteries of the Kingdom: (sower), wheat and the weeds, the mustard seed, the leaven, the treasure, the magnificent pearl, and the fishing net √ Jesus discusses this in Revelation 2-3 as He explains Kingdom connection to the Church. At the end Jesus asks a key question for all of us: “Have you understood all these things?” They said to Him, “Yes.” And Jesus said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has become a disciple of the kingdom of heaven is like a head of a household, who brings out of his treasure things new and old.” Matthew 13:51-52 We will return to this passage as we complete our series (in a few weeks :) These Kingdom parables are huge. We must understand them. Meditate upon them. Integrate our lives into the truths Jesus presents in them. Simple yet complex. Understandable yet so deep. A gift to the sons of Adam and Eve - a gift to you! Here's to open eyes to see and ears to hear for ourselves and our neighbors! Dave and Burnadette
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S10E5 - I Am Here/Turn to Me
10/22/2025
S10E5 - I Am Here/Turn to Me
For many the image of the word "repent" has negative connotations. Finger pointing. Judgment. Fear. But what if the original word itself is consulted? We then find that repent means a change of mind. A change of purpose. A new perception. John the Baptist: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2 Jesus the Son: "From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 4:17 So it appears that our turning away results in a freedom of turning toward. We leave one focus and begin to turn the eyes of our heart toward another. For one who follows Jesus - this literally connects us with the power of God so we may return to our original identity and purpose lost in the fall of Adam and Eve. Why is this important? For one, it is very personal, and allows us to reach outside of ourselves for help. It also allows us to escape any misplaced hope in religion or other deficient man-promises. And finally, it invites us to enter into a life of moving in and out within our supernatural connectivity with God. So Jesus said to them again, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly (expansively)." John 10:7-9 I am here. Turn away from the futility of self. Turn toward Me. Come to Me and I will give you rest. I will share your burdens and carry you when you are weighed down. Sound familiar? “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle 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 Oxen were yoked together in pairs to maximize strength and cooperation. Jesus is literally saying He is willing to be "yoked" with us so our weights are distributed with His power to pull the load of our lives. So amazingly cool. Some key spiritual steps: √ Invite Jesus to be Lord over your life. √ Begin to read about Him in the Gospels. √ Find a printed Bible that makes sense for you. √ Begin to ask God with what it is He wants you to know about yourself and about Him. This will enhance and simplify your process of turning away and turning toward. Easy peasy. God is deeper than we can possibly imagine - yet He is incredibly accessible! Go to the coaching tab if you would like to talk through your own plan for going deeper. Enjoy and grow deep roots! Dave and Burnadette
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S10E4 - Kingdom Roots
10/15/2025
S10E4 - Kingdom Roots
Probably the best Kingdom example we have from history is found in King David's story from the Bible. David was a "type" of the One Who was to come. This is why his story prepares us not only for the arrival and nature of Jesus - the King of the earth, but also for the Kingdom His followers will share with their king. We will reign with Him! There are many specific prophecies and words that prepare the Jews (and the entire earth) for the coming King. What is cool about this is that David experienced a heart unique in scripture and among the world of kings. This is why so many of his "songs" have been recorded for us: we are given insight into the heart of the coming King Jesus. About 100 of the 150 recorded Psalms originate from the instrument and heart of the shepherd King. From his "songs" we learn many things about living out the Kingdom. Here are a few. You belong to me. "The earth is the Lord's, and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it. For He has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers. Who may ascend into the hill of the Lord? And who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood and has not sworn deceitfully. He shall receive a blessing from the Lord and righteousness from the God of his salvation. This is the generation of those who seek Him, Who seek Your face — just as Jacob did. Selah (I lift this up)." Psalm 24:1-6 √ A follower of this King will bend his or her will to His Words and His greatness. √ He or she will develop a wisdom that differs from culture structures. √ While we may be productive workers, it is the blessing of God which will remain. √ Is this your chosen trajectory for living? I am shelter in the Storm. "Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were born or You gave birth to the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God." (Psalm 90:1,2) "So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom." (Psalm 90:12) "Let Your work appear to Your servants and Your majesty to their children. Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us; and confirm for us the work of our hands. Yes, confirm the work of our hands." (Psalm 90:16-17) √ Shelter is the nature of God and the story of the Bible. √ His shelter is the goal of our lives - living under His wings - finding refuge. √ Have you found this kind of shelter for your heart and soul? √ In what ways does peace reign inside of you? Forgiveness is My heart. David's imperfections were evident. He was a man just like us. Psalm 51 (song) reflects upon his adultery and murder and upon God's forgiveness and cleansing. "Be gracious to me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the greatness of Your compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against You, You only, I have sinned and done what is evil in Your sight, so that You are justified when You speak and blameless when You judge." Psalm 51:1-4 "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and sustain me with a willing spirit. Then I will teach transgressors (like me) Your ways, and sinners (like me) will be converted to You." Psalm 51:10-13 √ What does it mean to need to experience being "washed"? √ What happens when our hearts become clean and our spirit is willing to follow? √ How does failure qualify as an asset when it comes to helping others follow God? Whenever you read Psalms (and you should do this often) you are looking for gritty connections such as those found in the story of the shepherd King. “Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, since he has taunted the armies of the living God.” 1 Samuel 17:36/Goliath Here are some Psalm links to help you connect! Dave and Burnadette
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S10E3 - The Kingdom and Me
10/07/2025
S10E3 - The Kingdom and Me
If you look up the meaning of the word organic you will find “living, animated, and authentic.” The word Kingdom means “a realm of influence - both of living organisms or groups of people.” Over the last several years we have learned some things we would have preferred to experience in a tech download. It appears, however, this part of our journey was meant to occur in order to acquire deeper wisdom. Those who read the words of Jesus and His Father know that knowledge is a life-long journey gift, but wisdom arrives through deep testings of the soul and many experiences. Challenges and troubles are used to purify us if we are receptive and willing to allow our great God access to our lives, minds, and hearts. Peter the Jesus follower gives many insights into this connectivity inasmuch as he 1) gave up everything to follow Him, and 2) was a witness to most if not all of Jesus’ displays of mighty power, and 3) found acceptance and purifying after letting his King down in the most comprehensively humbling of ways (his denial of Jesus). From his first letter we are taught things he learned from his own process, things which he passes on to all who have chosen to “follow.” Notice the "forever life context" given in Peter's first letter: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. This gives us an inheritance which is imperishable and unstained and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been caused pain by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. And though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.” (1 Peter 1:3-9) This is God’s part. The My Life Context: “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. Be of sober spirit and be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brothers and sisters who are in the world. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 5:6-11) This is my/our part. Note both passages speak about suffering in our journey. Is there anything more encouraging than to know what God wishes us to know, and to “fight the good fight” of continuing to live intentionally in faith, hope, and love? His Kingdom is everywhere, His power is inside of us and everywhere around us, and nothing can snatch us out of His hands. Priceless. So how do we live organically and authentically effective in faith? √ Embrace King - Kingdom - Church over any man-made religion √ Give devoted attention to the cultivation of your faith, setting aside distractions and temporary things √ Learn how to consult the woven threads of scripture to allow the Word to interpret itself √ Develop your own foundation built upon the characters of faith provided in the God Story √ Associate with other men and women who desire the same trajectory and who model depth of pursuit The Jesus formula: √ King first: His coming is and was everything (fullness of times). √ Next Kingdom: Turn away and turn toward √ Then Church: Participate in the building of the church - embracing becoming a pure, spotless Bride. Ephesians 5:15-32 teaches us the God-man relational matrix! Ephesians 5:25-32 - Explain why our families are reflective of the God family It is a privilege to walk with those who overcome through humility and faith. Thank you for living and loving organically! Dave and Burnadette More:
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S10E2 - What Is Kingdom Organic?
09/30/2025
S10E2 - What Is Kingdom Organic?
This podcast season may be a stretch for you. It is for many. For context we must keep in the forefront what we learn from Jesus in His gospels about His Kingdom. Church is only mentioned a couple of times in the four gospels while the Kingdom is spoken of over 100 times. So everything Jesus said and did concerning the church flows from this pattern: King First - then Kingdom - then Church. Kingdom Organic traces the unfolding roots of the calling out and purifying of the Bride of Christ. The King of the earth has arrived to save the souls of mankind. Mankind had failed. God's people (the Jews) and her leaders had failed. Our false religions and human secularism were empty shells. Jesus was sent because all hope was gone. "For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly." (Romans 5:6) Both King and Kingdom had now arrived - just as the Law, the prophets, and the Psalms foretold. The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Turn away and turn toward, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2/Isaiah 40 From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Turn away and turn toward, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 4:17/Isaiah 9 When Jesus taught His disciples to pray it formed the basis for organic spirituality. It happened that while Jesus was praying in a certain place, after He had finished, one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray just as John also taught his disciples.” And He said to them, “When you pray, say: ‘Father, holy is Your name. Your kingdom come. Give us our daily bread each day. And forgive us our sins, as we ourselves also forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation.’” Then He said to them, “Suppose one of you has a friend, and goes to him at midnight and says to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has come to me from a journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; and from inside he answers and says, ‘Do not bother me; the door has already been shut and my children and I are in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything.’ “I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will get up and give him as much as he needs. “So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and he who seeks, finds; and to him who knocks, it will be opened. Now suppose one of you fathers is asked by his son for a fish; he will not give him a snake instead of a fish, will he? Or if he is asked for an egg, he will not give him a scorpion, will he? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?” So the organic Kingdom is all about connectivity with the King. We can ask. We can seek. We can knock. We can receive. The entire God Story is one relational account after another of individuals within all nations searching for and finding our God connection. Or running away. Or shaking our fist at Him. This is why we look for the way, the truth, and the life revealed in Jesus. How do we discern and then connect with spirituality that transforms our hearts and the hearts of others? Some questions: √ What is your picture/experience of the nature of personal God connection? √ How do you find you hear God's voice regarding your own journey? √ In what ways is your faith formulaic? √ In what ways is your faith intuitively connective? Jesus said to them, “Every scribe (someone who cares) who has become a disciple of the kingdom of heaven (someone who activates) is like a head of a household (one who finds and applies vision), who brings out of his treasure things new and old (one who is fruitful).” Matthew 13:52 You and I are free to 1) avoid God, 2) choose religious effort, or 3) discover the connectivity that comes by embracing The Way of Jesus, the Truth of Jesus, and the Life of Jesus. Make sense? Dave and Burnadette More:
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S10E01 - What Am I Looking For?
09/24/2025
S10E01 - What Am I Looking For?
What am I looking for right now? What is it that is not working? In what ways am I disillusioned? Hungry? Thirsty. Fearful? At peace? THIS IS BIG: How do hope, fear, and faith overlap? √ Where does true hope originate? It is a supernatural gift given by God. √ In what ways does fear kill hope? We are predisposed (our human nature) to choosing fear - which consumes our hope. √ In what ways does faith unlock personal peace of mind? There is a time-tested and quite effective mechanism for people to find hope. It can help settle fears, find clarity, and stimulate freedom for an honest, transparent, and hopeful heart. First: √ The idea that all religions are the same or equal is simply false. Jesus’ Kingdom has proven to have come from God - century after century. √ The thought that Christianity was Jesus’ religion of choice is simply inaccurate. His devotion was Father-centric. √ Finding hope goes much deeper than achieving happiness. Hope imagines an amazing destination - and counts on God to bring us safely home. Jesus said to (Thomas), “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. If you had known Me, you would have known My Father as well; from now on through Me you know Him, and have seen Him.” - John 14:6-7 Because the Son was at the Father’s side when the world was created, their plan for arrival on earth in human form brings three very important things together. If we know how we are going (the Way Jesus walked) and wish to have genuine success in getting there (via the Truth) then we will experience (the Life) - which is the prize of the entire God Story. Genesis 1 is the account of the unfolding of all life. The Revelation prophecy explains how Jesus (our Creator and Judge and Savior) will bring the gift of a return to the Garden of God (Paradise). It is not so much that we need to find our way to God but rather our eyes must be opened to the fact that God is actively pursuing us. The Father, His Son Jesus, and His Holy Spirit are working together to bring about our personal experience of finding our way back to our true identities - as sons and daughters of God Most High. In speaking with Zaccheus (a hated tax collector) in Luke 19 Jesus says, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he, too, (Zaccheus) is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” All sons of Adam and Eve (humanity) and of Abraham and Sarah (Hebrews) are LOST. The Way has little to do with religion and everything to do with walking the path and example of how Jesus walked. He showed us our way through love - and this perfect love overcomes fear. 1 John 4:18 makes this plain: “There is no fear in love; but perfect love throws out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love.” (perfected: brought to life) Walking the Jesus’ Way casts out fear. It is common for people to say “that’s just your truth.” In God's realm there is only One Truth, and it is in this realm we live - despite our words and perspectives. This truth is written in what is made (Psalm 19), in the person of Jesus Himself (Colossians 1), and through disclosure of the Word of God through the Holy Spirit (John 14:21; Hebrews 1:1-4). According to Paul we are all gifted with life (Acts 17:22-31). And He said to him, “Why are you asking Me about what is good? There is only One who is good; but if you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.” (Matthew 19:17) This is why we must be born a second time. Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born, can he?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water (first time) and the Spirit (second time) he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be amazed that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” This is not a merely a clever religious or church metaphor. It comes from the mouth of Jesus - God’s Son. It runs deeper than any identifying platitude - and it cuts to the heart of finding life that will never end. That is something worth looking for. Does it overlap with your current journey thoughts? What are you looking for right now? Hope? Faith? Direction? Dave and Burnadette and friends
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S9E14 - Song Of The Wind
09/18/2025
S9E14 - Song Of The Wind
"The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:8) There are reasons Jesus uses this descriptive analogy. If we are to find God we must do so through God's wind - His Holy Spirit. This God Story thread begins in Genesis 1:1,2 and completes in Revelation 22:17. "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters." "The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost." Between these two "bookends" the work of His Holy Spirit is seen in every word and every chapter of His God Story. Here are just a few things about the Spirit: In Isaiah 11:2 we find that Jesus is the wisdom of God. "The Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, The spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord." In Matthew 3:11 (after we are told how Mary conceived Jesus in Matthew 1:18) John the Baptist explains how we will be impacted: “As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire." When Jesus speaks with the Jewish leader Nicodemus He blows his mind: "Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews; this man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born, can he?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be amazed that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can these things be?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Are you the teacher of Israel and do not understand these things?" John 3:1-10 Amazing. You may wish to acquaint yourself well with chapter 5 of the book of Revelation regarding "the wind." "I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a book written inside and on the back, sealed up with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, “Who is worthy to open the book and to break its seals?” And no one in heaven or on the earth or under the earth was able to open the book or to look into it. Then I began to weep greatly because no one was found worthy to open the book or to look into it; and one of the elders said to me, “Stop weeping; behold, the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to open the book and its seven seals.” Consider: √ The Spirit of God was there when Jesus was conceived. √ The Spirit was upon Him when He was teaching in the temple at age twelve. √ The Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted. √ Jesus gave the Spirit to His followers (and the world) at Pentecost (Acts 1) When you and I have our eyes opened through Jesus it by the Spirit of grace: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you." John 14:15-18 Does this make sense to you? Is this how you are learning to live? Singing the Song of the Wind with you, Dave and Burnadette More:
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S9E13 - Shelter Classrooms
09/09/2025
S9E13 - Shelter Classrooms
Our God IS Shelter! Under Shelter courses you will find five different yet integrated paths for growing in the depth of God’s Shelter. There are videos and notes featuring the authors/teachers at . To join this community click on the join button. 1. 19 Principles: The Heart of What Jesus Taught His FollowersSome of the most central teachings of Jesus - both for personal growth and helping others. 2. God’s Man/God’s Woman: Making It CountFinding the integrated teaching of Jesus on men and women building the Kingdom of Heaven together. 3. Strong Home Legacy: Leaving Your Mark On The WorldA deep dive into what God (Who IS family) teaches us about family honor and satisfaction. 4. Jesus As Healer: Living A Life of Spiritual FreedomHow we can live a life of freedom rather than bondage to fear, anger, lies, and uncertainty. 5. Over/Next: Help When People Suffer LossWhen the worst happens what do we do? Over/Next brings real solutions to the most painful things in our lives. Here are links to other Fourthstream classrooms you may find helpful: Other Kingdom podcast seasons include: S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 We can never reach the depths of the Living God, but we can swim in some pretty nourishing waters! Dave and Burnadette More:
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S9E12 - The Call To Make Disciples
09/02/2025
S9E12 - The Call To Make Disciples
Jesus instructed His followers (disciples) to make disciples just as He did. Let’s break this down a bit. This comes from Matthew 28:16-20. #1. “But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated.” It is important to note that Jesus remained on earth 40 days after His resurrection (Acts 1: 3). “To these He also presented Himself alive after His suffering, by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days and speaking of the things concerning the kingdom of God.” 40 Days. Hundreds and even thousands of eyewitnesses assembled by Luke the doctor! There was no doubt in the eyes of His followers that an explosion was occurring. There was much work to be done by His disciples and followers who would join them in the wake of this once-of-a-kind event. Note what Paul said about this: “After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep (died)...” (1 Corinthians 15:6) The evidence for a resurrected Jesus was massive. And He keeps popping up. #2. “When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful.” Think what this must have been like for these simple fishermen. Each day for four years they were acclimating to literally the most amazing things that ever had or ever would occur on the earth. This is represented for so many others in the words of the disciple Thomas: “So the other disciples were saying to him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see in His hands the imprint of the nails, and put my finger into the place of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.” (John 20:25) “And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, #3. “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” Jesus is saying He is here bringing the authority given Him by His Father. This is more than the founding of a massively impactful religion. It is the authority of God unleashed into generations through thousands of years until He returns. Huge. If the Father’s authority is sufficient to raise the dead perhaps it is unlimited, right? And when we walk in Jesus we walk in the Father’s authority. #4. “Because of this go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you...” We are to do as He has done. And more than this, we are to do it alongside His example and in the power of His Spirit. We share the yoke of our Kingdom load with Jesus Himself. “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle 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) So the authority is His. The example is His. He calls us to follow in His steps. #5. “... and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Jesus is not asking His followers to go it alone. We have Him. We have each other. And through His Spirit we have His strength and His presence. “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” What more can our great God do for us?! Being a disciple is a beautiful thing. Joining Him in making disciples through our own lives is a privilege of expansive proportions. Think about it! “And he said to him, ‘Well done, good servant, because you have been faithful in a very little thing, you are to be in authority over ten cities.’ ” Luke 19:17 √ Are you all in? Do you feel worthy? √ Do you know what you need to know? Do you feel able? √ Are you prepared to give everything for the sake of this call? Are you overcoming distractions? Following the Shepherd right along with you, Dave and Burnadette More:
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S9E11 - The Call to Knowing God
08/26/2025
S9E11 - The Call to Knowing God
The entire Bible has been given to us so we may know God, understand a life of God- honor, and live in a manner "worthy" of the One Who created us. Six times in the letters the words "manner worthy" are used to describe the walk of a God follower. It means we honor God (As well as ourselves) by placing honorable weight upon our great God. Let's think through what Paul taught the Philippians in 3:1-21. It will help illuminate the concept of the call to knowing God. This carries on the conversation about Engage Training from the last episode. Useful to us for sure! "Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things again is no trouble to me, and it is a safeguard for you." Paul had been around the block both as a Jew and as a follower of Jesus. While he understood many complicated things (check out the letter to the Romans) he always returned to the heart of the Gospel. He speaks about this in every letter! So to have a "knowing God" mechanism to focus him in the wild events of his everyday crazy was a "safeguard" for him - and all who follow Jesus. He does not mince words on the challenges: "Beware of the dogs (those who oppress others for personal benefit), beware of the evil workers (those who devise evil plans without regard for either human or God value), and beware of the false circumcision (Jews who live in hypocrisy related to the Word of God); for we are the true circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh. Crazy right? He then goes through his spiritual pedigree: "Although I myself might have confidence even in my flesh. If anyone else has a mind to put confidence in the flesh, I far more: circumcised the eighth day, of the nation of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the Law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to the righteousness which is in the Law, found blameless." Dang. This man is certified and dangerous. He is not bragging, of course, but setting up a contrast. (3:7-11) "But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead." We don't have enough time here to unpack this, but Knowing Him and His power is what made this wild man tick. And by wild, we mean wild at heart. So, Paul's goal for the Philippians was the same as he had for himself. √ What is your God-mechanism for staying connected to God? (3:1-6) √ In what ways are you able to discern between "dogs" and "evil workers?" (7-11) √ What ways and at what levels do you value "knowing God?" Paul pauses to add some clarity. This is not merely about attaining but also about pursuing! (12-15) "Not that I have already obtained it or have already become "perfect" (to complete the journey of faith), but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. Brothers, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that also to you; however, let us keep living by that same standard to which we have attained." √ Again - it is ALL about the upward call to knowing God. Paul returns to the dicey nature of our journey in verses 17-21. "Brothers, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have seen in us. For many walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ, whose 1) end is destruction, 2) whose god is their appetite, and 3) whose glory is in their shame, 4) who set their minds on earthly things. For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has to subject all things to Himself." Boom! We pursue knowing Him now because our coming conformity with His glory is unimaginable to us in our present state. So Paul is describing a spiritual reality we can pursue to find satisfying meaning in our quickly unfolding lives. And it is so much more than sitting in a pew! Knowing God is the goal of Kingdom spirituality. Know the King. Embrace Kingdom living (as He and His followers define again and again). And BE His loving and spotless Bride. For our Day will come. Let's finish strong! Episode 8: Strategic Plan 1/Cultivating Deeper Episode 9: Strategic Plan 2/Jesus Centric Episode 10: Strategic Plan 3/Engage Training Episode 11: The Call to Knowing God Episode 12: The Call to Make Disciples Episode 13: Some Excellent Kingdom Books Episode 14: Song of the Wind How do we know we are knowing God? √ Based upon our knowledge of the Words He has given us in the God Story √ Based upon our reflective connection and obedience to what He has proclaimed true √ Confidence in our own non-religious heart of devotion to Him Like our friend Brent says: "Fortis Perago" - let's finish strong - in the knowledge of God Most High! Dave and Burnadette
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S9E10 - Your Strategic Plan 3 - Engage Training
08/20/2025
S9E10 - Your Strategic Plan 3 - Engage Training
When Jesus announced His Kingdom He began to select a group of men and women who would follow Him by pursuing the example He had shown them and the Words from His Father He had communicated. This included a number of things reflected in the amazing display of "God coming near" (Immanuel) to save humanity from futility (our lives counting for nothing) and judgment for falling short of the image we were created to honor and multiply within each of our lives. Here are some of the threads Jesus taught in the word and works of His hands: √ Integrating what they knew or did not know about connectivity with Creator God. “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." (John 14:15) Jesus spent much time explaining what knowing and pleasing the Father looked like. √ Facing who Jesus was with humility, honor, and resolve. “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit." (John 12:24) "Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:6,7) “He must increase, but I must decrease." (John 3:30) We are God's kingdom seeds in the world. √ Embracing the same "why" He was tasked with when sent to earth by His Father. “Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love." John 15:9 “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command you." (John 15:13-14) √ Leaving our "nets" and choosing to follow Him. And He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed Him." (Matthew 4:19-22) There is so much which captures our attention and imagination in a life time. Fishing for men really should be very prominent. √ Engaging in the hard work of the Kingdom. Seeing the people, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd. Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore fervently ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.” (Matthew 9:36-38) “You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my own needs and to the men who were with me. In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Paul in Acts 20:34-35) Jesus calls this putting our hand to the plow: But Jesus said to him, “No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:22 √ Persevering faithfully (though imperfectly) to the end. "Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you." (1 Timothy 4:16) This is all about value. If we VALUE Who He IS and what He has DONE for us, we will honor Him over and over. “These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 √ Looking forward to the reward His Father holds for all who serve Him in word and deed. Then Peter said to Him, “Behold, we have left everything and followed You; what then will there be for us?” And Jesus said to them, “Truly I say to you, that you who have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms for My name’s sake, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last; and the last, first." (Matthew 19:27-30) There have been many great things written about what it means to engage as a disciple of the Kingdom. We began to sort through these things years ago and landed on what we call "Engage Training." We have taken the teachings of Jesus and the encounters and experiences of His disciples and contemplated them organically and systematically to provide an approach to being a "scribe" of the Kingdom. This allows one to participate in the work and glory of God, and most of all to hear the words "well done." “His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master." Matthew 25:23 Jesus invites us into what He and His Father are doing. So cool. John 5:17: But He answered them, “My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working.” (John 5:1-47 deserves to be read and absorbed concerning His words in John 5) Time invested in working through the Engage Training course will reap huge benefits in the days ahead! If you wish to discuss this and tailor your own plan, reach out at 4@fourthstream.com. Peace upon your heart and soul! Dave and Burnadette
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S9E09 - Your Strategic Plan 2 - Jesus Centric
08/12/2025
S9E09 - Your Strategic Plan 2 - Jesus Centric
This diagram tracks the recurring woven threads throughout God's Word (over 62,000 connections!). As you consider your personal strategic plan for spirituality we have considered: √ King First - then Kingdom - then Church/what Jesus taught about spirituality √ Cultivating Deeper/skills for unlocking the Word Today we discuss the big picture on the Word of God, and what we like to call Jesus-Centric. What this means is that the entire Bible revolves around the person Jesus. Genesis 1-11 and the human story. Genesis 12-52 and God's choice of Abraham (Israel) to redeem the nations through Messiah (Savior, satisfaction for our sin, and Son of the Living God). Through the words of Moses (imperfect deliverer and the one who encountered Yahweh within the burning bush) - Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Then we add the conquest via Joshua, the Judges and Ruth, and the Kings and the prophets. 400 years of silence and then the appearance of King Yeshua (Jesus) and His Kingdom which was finally "at hand." Next the launching of the Church who would be prepared through the centuries to eventually become the spotless Bride of Christ. The letters (Acts - Revelation) give us encouragement and perspective, as well as representing the clear realities of who we are to be and where we are headed. Jesus Centric is an academic and experiential journey through the One Woven Story. From such pursuit we learn to allow the Bible to interpret itself. NOWHERE in either the old or new testaments are they called the old and new testaments. This is often transposed with the old and new covenants found in Jeremiah 31:31; Luke 22:20; 1 Corinthians 11:25; 2 Corinthians 3:6; and Hebrews 8:8,13; 9:15; 12:24. This is a perfect example of one of the woven threads we are talking about, and a classic example of exceeding what is written. There are not two stories. Only one. How many people do you know who have consulted the Word of God apart from religious pursuit? Many people have read through the Bible, but in our experience fewer have reasoned through the Bible. The Word of God is true. It is clear. It is supernaturally connective. Jesus Centric is 28 study episodes which help you make use of the entire God Story as backdrop for your personal spirituality, and to help others make sense out of their own journeys. Even as you read this there is a slim chance you will be one of whom Jesus calls a scribe of the Kingdom - but you CAN BE! And Jesus said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has become a disciple of the kingdom of heaven is like a head of a household, who brings out of his treasure things new and old.” (Matthew 13:52) √ A scribe is motivated to understand and apply truth. √ A head of a household steps into his or her spirituality. √ What is treasure new and old? Let's find out! Dave and Burnadette Nadler If you wish to discuss this and come up with your own plan, reach out at 4@fourthstream.com
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S9E08 - Your Strategic Plan 1 - Cultivating Deeper
08/05/2025
S9E08 - Your Strategic Plan 1 - Cultivating Deeper
Finding our first King - then Kingdom - then Church balance is important for our spirituality. Obviously we have given this much thought, but you should investigate this yourself. Our purpose for pursuing this was to make sure we were prioritizing how we invested our time, our talents (gifts), and our treasures (resources). Having an effective and growing strategic plan for spiritual life it is imperative to set markers which come from the Word of God you can use as your compass throughout your journey. We've tweaked this allot through the years, but having a plan for cultivating deeper is key. Deeper can simply be defined as where we go in God. Because our Creator is unlimited we have plenty of room to go deeper, and this begins with finding our own Word compass. This is the intent of most spiritual training (church programs, Bible schools, and seminary training). It is interesting that the Jews were well educated at the time of Jesus, and yet here is what is said about His disciples (after Jesus had risen from the dead and ascended to Heaven): "Now as they observed the confidence of Peter and John and understood that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus." Acts 4:13 √ What were the observations about the disciples? √ What was their primary qualifier? √ How does this differ from men and women who want to follow Him in discipleship as well? It seems that "being with" Jesus is what fuels Kingdom spirituality. This is why we have churches, schools, and seminaries. It is why as they grew up the Jews were taught Torah (the Law and prophets and the Psalms), and then for life decisions as they came into adulthood. The religious leaders were all trained this way, yet Jesus' conflict with them far exceeded His issues with Roman rulers. This leads us to the conclusion that what made Jesus' disciples effective for the Kingdom was predicated upon His Father being with Him. How can we duplicate such a growth environment? It seems we must dedicate a significant part of who we are to being "with" Him. This means we MUST go DEEPER into His Word to develop the kind of connectivity that is empowered by the relationship we have described in previous podcast sessions: through His Son Jesus, His Word, and through His Holy Spirit. This is the ultimate "God honor." To design a deeper plan for your spirituality you must include significant dedication to knowing the Word of God and allowing the Bible to interpret itself. When we learn to follow and consult the woven threads of scripture there is little wiggle room regarding proper interpretation (which addresses the "that's just your interpretation" argument). This means a "scribe of the Kingdom" must not only be motivated but also learn and apply skills which allow best interpretation based upon original intent of language and context. Such context is both immediate (the chapter and book or letter in which you are reading) and panoramic, in that we take into account the context of the entire Word of God on a particular thread (such as obedience, faith, sin, hope, Jesus, the future, etc). Make sense? If you have a desire to grow and hone such skills we offer a course in the Fourthstream nav bar titled Deeper. It comes with a number of video teachings and a workbook to allow this to happen for you, and to prepare you to help others do the same. We often refer to this process: Encounter the Reference/take the time and have a plan. Expose the Meaning/flow, words, context, and intent. Enlighten Your Heart/What did it mean to them/what does it mean to you? Once you have completed this course feel free to reach out at 4@fourthstream.com with any questions, observations, or strategic conversations. . You can print a pdf guide for free or order a printed booklet. The video teachings are in the section links within the course. Enjoy the adventure! You won't regret it. Dave and Burnadette
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S9E07 - Kingdom Coaching
07/29/2025
S9E07 - Kingdom Coaching
There are many ways of being mentored in spirituality. While this may come from significant people in our lives, books we read or study, favorite music et al, I have found that the Spirit is Jesus' voice inside of me is the most substantial. He is always ready to teach me and shape me and lead me in the direction Jesus wants for me. “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose it to you." John 16:13-15 And then there is this: "In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with (connection) longings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He prays before the Father for the holy ones according to the will of God." Romans 8:26-27 So - mentoring is guiding in helpful ways which lead us to becoming the selves God has made us to be, and coaching is having an experienced voice in my corner, always teaching, inviting and encouraging me toward "the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Which will always result in the best me. FOURTHSTREAM LEARNING & COACHING We have experience and knowledge for understanding the Kingdom life Jesus taught and lived. King first - then Kingdom - then Church. This is the Jesus model for honor and success in the eyes of His Father. Our Finding Hope Podcast connects you each week with encouraging focus and usable resources. You can watch weekly on our on-line community Storiesofshelter.com as well as at Fourthstream.com. We study and process over 600 podcasts and teachings which you may find to be quite helpful in your personal process. We offer several options of intensity. √ Our Finding Hope podcasts post each Tuesday. Here we select an aspect of Kingdom living and review what the woven threads of the Word of God have to say about it. These podcasts are available without subscription and can be found anywhere you make your podcast choices, or on the homepage at Fourthstream.com or Storiesofshelter.com. We follow up each Friday with study notes when you opt in to our weekly Friday e-mails. And our on-line Storiesofshelter.com community associates you with others who are pursuing Shelter from the King of the universe. These are offered for free. √ Our monthly membership gives you access to a forum for asking questions about the Bible and the Kingdom, whether you are new to following Jesus or well down the road. Join up and reach out with questions, thoughts, and advice on the issues of your life. We also host a members bi-monthly Zoom discussion forum where we dive into pertinent conversations as we strive to go where Jesus wants us to go. Sign up at $30 per month. √ We also connect individually with a number of motivated people each month either personally or via Zoom per proximity or availability. It gives you a feedback loop on what you re processing in your spiritual life. 1) we help you assess your spiritual desires in context of your current circumstances 2) we help you design your personal plan for living deeper 3) together we implement a strategy that moves you step by step to where you want to be 4) and we also offer our Storiesofshelter.com community where you can access hopeful interaction This kicks off with a no-cost 30 minute call to determine options and fit. You can inquire at 4@fourthstream.com. So: √ Our Finding Hope Podcast provides regular connection for your personal goals. √ Our Fourthstream.com teaching Courses provide your personally designed systematic backdrop to become a disciple of Jesus' Kingdom. √ Our Storiesofshelter.com community allows you to process your spirituality with others. Soon our X and Telegram groups will enhance your interactions with other like-minded people. Welcome to Fourthstream Coaching. We think you’re going to like it! Dave and Burnadette and the Team
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S9E06 - Strategies for Weekly Kingdom Connectivity
07/22/2025
S9E06 - Strategies for Weekly Kingdom Connectivity
It is one thing to understand the concept of First King - then Kingdom - then Church, but another to live a life directed toward connection with your King. The first thing is to decide where you stand on Jesus. A great teacher? One of many unremarkable religionists? Someone into whose hands you can place the welfare of your soul? We can talk about what Jesus taught about authentic connectivity, but only you can intentionally embrace whether or not He is who He said He is. Once you have made this determination you may then move into what it means to submit yourself to His authority, embrace and build His Kingdom, and grow as your part of the "pure spotless Bride" preparing for the wedding feast which will surely come. It would be great if this was a one-time thing, but faith requires we make this decision to pursue and connect again and again. Here are a few things we have learned - they may be helpful to you. #1. Decide you are going to continue in His Word. "So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” - John 8:31,32 It takes caring intentionality to produce honor of any kind. When it comes to Jesus we must constantly assess personal value. What He has done and what He has taught - what do they mean to you as life priorities? #2. Determine to spend your life moving beyond the distractions which press upon each phase of life. "They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to shared expression of love for one another, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." - Acts 2:42 This is quite simply choosing to live the way Jesus lived. It does not come naturally or easily to any son of Adam. Focus is both a personal prize and friend to spirituality. #3. Learn to make your conversations with God genuine and honoring rather than shallow and/or boring. Some people call this praying. We prefer to call it connecting - body, soul, and spirit. "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" Micah 6:8 Deep friendship does not just happen. It is reciprocal. It is faithful. It grows gradually through many years and the journey testings of life. It is a good idea before anything else in your day to ask Jesus "what is it you want me to know today, and what is it you want me to do?" (Winship) #4. Plan each week with aspirations of connection to Jesus Himself, His Father, and Spirit directed friendships with others that fuel your heart. Who will you reach out to personally? Who will initiate with you? What are your plans for doing the "sacrifices" of God? "And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased." Hebrews 13:16 If your main goal is connection He will honor your desire. This is why He says “No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you." Cool. John 15:15 #5. Pursue your own spiritual rhythm and fine-tune it and recommit to it again and again. Where does solitude fit in for you? In what ways do you use your spiritual gifting to build up others? In what ways do you feel you are planting and cultivating Kingdom seeds? How are you influencing your part of the world? And Jesus said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has become a disciple of the kingdom of heaven is like a head of a household, who brings out of his treasure things new and old.” Matthew 13:52 Do you know what this means? What does it look like in your life and the lives of others around you? #6. Prepare your heart to be faithful to Jesus no matter what. You will try and fail. Sometimes you will succeed. You will need to hit restart over and over. You must have the wisdom and courage to "come boldly to the throne of grace to find mercy in your time of need." While true obedience results in honor, personal perfection will never occur. The whole point of the Gospel is that Jesus comes alongside us to do what we cannot do alone. This is deep. Do you understand it? “Come to Me, all who are weary and weighed down, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle 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 strategically right alongside you, Dave and Burnadette
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S9E05 - Stories Of Shelter
07/15/2025
S9E05 - Stories Of Shelter
God IS shelter. We NEED to be sheltered. We need each other to remind us of what is IMPORTANT. We are surrounded by chaos, turbulence, and are so vulnerable to the weaknesses, pitfalls, and schemes of unprincipled men and women. How do we find our way through? There appears to be a clear path! "Hear my cry, O God, and listen to my prayer. From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For You have been a shelter for me, a tower of strength against the enemy. Let me travel under Your pillars and let me take forever protection under the shelter of Your wings. (I lift this up to the highway of praise). For You have heard my heart promises O God and You have given me the inheritance of those who fear Your name. You will prolong the king’s life and his years will be as many generations. He will abide before God forever. Appoint lovingkindness and truth that they may preserve him. So I will sing praise to Your name forever, that I may pay my offering promises day by day." Psalm 61 There is a definite thread of shelter in the Bible. Psalm 61 and Psalm 90 and 91 together paint an incredible picture of the shelter that comes from God. It is expansive. It is protective. It is healing. It is eternal. TELLING SHELTER STORIES We have launched Storiesofshelter.com to help us focus on the God stories of our lives. We explore two questions together: Where have we lived and given shelter? Where have we received shelter? Thinking these through can unlock some of the deeper things from our uniquely personal stories. Stories of Shelter connects you with our shelter community, where we share and hope in the Shelter that comes from the Living God, and enters into hearts and lives who find shelter under His wings. We live Hope through Him. We Love through Him. We find peace through Him. Once you see what Storiesofshelter.com offers - join the community! You will find stories, books, and conversations built around 19 Core Principles, God's Man/God's Woman conversations, understanding Jesus as Healer, and embracing Over/Next: Finding Your Way after a big loss or disappointment. And you don't need to write a paper or book in order to share your story! Three to four sentences giving a picture of where you have seen shelter between you and someone else - or a touching story or a photo/video from your friend group or social media. You can invite other truly sheltering people to do the same! Here are some links will help explain the SHELTER thread we are following. More: Peace upon your heart and home, Dave and Burnadette Nadler and Alan Baker P.S. "He who dwells in the shelter of the Mos High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty." Psalm 91
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S9E04 - Kingdom Structural
07/08/2025
S9E04 - Kingdom Structural
Because understanding the Kingdom is so critical to our spiritual lives, let's take some time to absorb the core message of Jesus when it comes to building in a manner that is pleasing to Him. We have already mentioned that the Kingdom is mentioned in the Gospels over 100 times and the church only twice. So the Kingdom message was clear to Jesus and to His disciples. In the book of Acts after the "church" (called out assembly) begins to emerge: "To these He also presented Himself alive after His suffering, by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days and speaking of the things concerning the kingdom of God." Acts 1:3 CONTEXT The world was corrupt and dying, and the Father, Son, and Spirit moved to save us. The King would need to come and willingly sacrifice Himself. King first. Then He would bring the message of the Kingdom to all who would listen, and build this Kingdom work through His own followers - who will become His Bride at the end of the age. The word ecclesia literally means a called out assembly. So the Church (the Bride) is called out of this lost world to enjoin the work of the Son of God Himself. Because of this, Fourthstream.com is built around the biblical Kingdom model. We take great care to accurately represent the King through everything He taught and did. We preserve the purity of this by allowing the Bible to interpret itself. The complete Word of God is an intricate and robust series of woven threads of truth, unfolding in all 66 books of the Testament of the Living God (note: nowhere in the Bible are the books identified as the old and new testaments - and yet we accept this idea from tradition and history - like so many things). The scribe who takes the time to process the Kingdom message of Jesus operates from a considerably different vantage point than much of what we see in secular and even church history. We are often obsessed with preserving tradition (and preferences and distinctions) rather than searching out the truth that has been so carefully brought to us. As we look deeper through the lens of the Kingdom we see many patterns and teachings emerge, such as the one in the diagram at the top. As Jesus explains the Kingdom (Matthew 5) He teaches us how the pure in heart are the ones who see God. What this means is we are to subject everything through the lens of humility rather than human business-as-usual (pride/self-absorption). When we experience a pure heart (Jesus' words, not mine) we are made free to know God as He IS rather than who we want Him or shape Him to be. Then we become able to do kindness in the Spirit, where the works of God begin to flow through our own lives into the people and souls around us. And so - we become His instruments to grow life. We call this the Kingdom Circle. It is quite superior to religion in that it is powered by Jesus and the Spirit of grace. So to apply the Word of God properly we must set aside religion and tradition and embrace the power of the King and His Kingdom. Fourthsteam.com carefully sifts through what is authentic to find connectivity with Jesus that changes us from the inside out, rather than the outside in. This is why Jesus said: “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said He takes of Mine and will disclose it to you." John 16:13-15 To find authentic King and Kingdom Church we must go to the Source. "He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of death will not overpower it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven.” Matthew 16:15-19 Think how often this passage is represented to be understood regarding tradition, yet we fall short of understanding its meaning. The goal of Kingdom structure is to let the King tell us how His Kingdom operates and grow this Kingdom within His Church - in any and every age. Some get this - and some do not. But this is where God-honor and discipleship begin. Make sense? We offer several foundational things to move within the Kingdom understanding given us by Jesus. Last episode we mentioned the basics which help us to understand the God Story. Here we discuss what needs to be focused upon to live the Kingdom life our King outlined for us in that God Story. If this intrigues you (or is new to you) - take time to reset your mind narrative from religious to Kingdom structural. It could change your life! Peace upon your heart and home, Dave and Burnadette Nadler More:
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S9E03 - Finding Hope Podcasts
07/01/2025
S9E03 - Finding Hope Podcasts
A number of years ago we were thinking through Paul's statement in 1 Corinthians 13:13 "Now these three powerful things: faith, hope, and love exist among us; but the greatest of these is love." This makes sense in that God IS love and we are made in His image. It would be great if we always loved the way He does - but we do not. We are surrounded by turbulence - from the inside-out. Even evil itself. Yet love is the most robust capital available to humanity, and those who live in true love draw close to our Creator. This "greater" means the most abundant. Deep inside we are motivated to love others. Right and wrong. Again - image of God. But faith and hope are not subservient to love in any way. In fact, all three unlock each other. As the God Story tells us in Hebrews 11:6: "And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him." So faith pleases God and love blesses God and others. When hope is brought into our hearts and our community of relationships (family, neighbors, co-workers) everything flourishes. "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." Romans 5:1-5 Can you see it? Faith brings peace with God. In faith we are taught the glory of God in the face of Jesus. Hope empowers us to be principled and motivated in our love for one another. It is the relationship between these three gifts which allow us to live, grow, and excel as sons and daughters of the Living God. And so, Fourthstream Finding Hope podcasts were launched. In season #1 we spent 31 episodes uncovering the relationship of God's Law to the freedom of living in grace. God's Law is one core part of His grace toward His creation. Season #2 led us into a consideration of the reality that we have been born into a world at war. 30 episodes discovering our place in the middle of an epic struggle between good and evil. Then season #3 unlocks 34 episodes of what it means to live victoriously in the middle of the Turbulence of Imperfection. In season #4 we turned to a consideration of God's Man/God's Woman and how we make our journeys count. 11 conversations to return to again and again as we seek to follow our King and live lives that matter. This flows to season #5 and a discussion of what it means to experience a learning heart, then followed with 20 episodes about the power of hope (season #6). Seasons 4-5-6 are quite personally reflective, instructive, and helpful. Season #7 helps with the big picture concerning the Big Story in which we find ourselves integrally linked to one another within the purpose of God. In season #8 we examine the idea that God IS Shelter, and set a foundation to build our StoriesofShelter.com community for those who have received and given shelter. Now in Season #9 we come full circle to embrace the Kingdom of Jesus. All of this provides not only a systematic understanding of the teaching of God's Story, but an authentic connection to what it means to be a follower of Jesus. Together we mine the depths of what the One Woven Story has to say about Finding Hope, living in Faith, and Loving in the friendship of Christ. We take great care to allow the Bible to interpret itself - the only way we can preserve authenticity as we seek to make sense out of our lives - in God context. Each of these seasons are a link to spiritual maturity, and when processed in humility and truth can lead us deeper into our faith, our hope, and lives of love! Kind of an A-Z process that continues to unfold! Dave and Burnadette Enjoy!
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S9E02 - What Is The Kingdom To You
06/24/2025
S9E02 - What Is The Kingdom To You
The levels of turbulence around us are massive. In every corner of our American and world culture we see division and twisted wisdom. There are three great gifts from God: Faith, Hope, and Love (1 Corinthians 13). Each of these may be found by those who choose to enter through the Door of the sheep (John 10). In faith we find a different and substantive present and future. Through love we make our lives count for ourselves and others. And in hope we find the fuel to live each day for something more. Once you have found a compass for your life the ability to reset your trajectory is open to you. Whenever you wish you may "go in and out" through Jesus - the Door of the sheep. This is where Fourthstream.com comes in. We have designed and compiled a connecting base from which you can fuel your desire to live a full life for your King, and seamlessly help others do the same. Both Dave and Burnadette have found the peace which can carry you through chaos and imperfection - and this comes from the Word of God alone. We have searched philosophy, science, and faith to discover what is needed to live in hope - which is no easy task! At Fourthstream.com we offer ten podcast seasons of conversations which all will connect you with personal hope. There is a blog of unfolding thoughts as well as core conversations to help you or someone you know establish in Jesus and His Kingdom. King first - then Kingdom - then Church. We have also written six books highlighting key parts of the faith story given to us in God's One Woven Story - the Bible. These dovetail with nine courses we have recorded during our years of teaching - which provides you with a significant spiritual and educational path toward unlocking the Story. Hope is not a given. Not everyone has ears to hear. In fact, it appears that there is only a "remnant" of people who will actually follow through to find hope in God. Life is too distracting - and we are too self-centered. This is where humility fits in. "For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:11-13 Our podcasts, blog posts, and conversations are available at no cost. Reviews of our books are provided and you can order them in either printed or audiobook formats per your interest and plan. Regarding our courses, both the God Story and Kingdom Spirituality are offered without cost (you can access videos and printed books if you wish). The Streamsbook, Strong Homes, Engage Training, The 8 Great Epochs in the Fabric of Time, Book by Book, Deeper, and Jesus Centric are accessed through ongoing membership as well as deep dives for those who choose to engage Fourthstream Coaching, which is a limited group who access Dave and Burnadette for their personally designed plans for Kingdom Spirituality conversations. Let's take a look at Fourthstream.com and determine what fits for you and the people with whom you are building the Kingdom. Click here. Here are a few comments from people who have experienced the benefits of Fourthstream.com. "Understanding the difference between putting the Kingdom first vs. church first has been a game changer for me as I am assessing my relationships. I appreciate Fourthstream.com and Storiesofshelter.com because it gives me the opportunity to get a brief soul overview in the middle of my busy day..." Ann "When I connect with the Kingdom through what Dave and Burnadette teach I come away refreshed in my heart and strengthened in spirit." Daniel "Through tools they have created I have been given a clear path and process...I have been engaged in their Jesus-Centric teaching plan which has pushed me deeper in desire and process in understanding the Word of God. If you are someone who wants a closer connection with God I highly recommend taking advantage of the tools at Fourthstream.com!" Nick "Through the courses, podcasts, books, and study guides Dave and Burney have impacted my life in so many ways. They are a couple with a heart for Jesus and a fire for others to know His love." Roland Peace upon your heart and home - from your friends at Fourthstream.com and other story hearts at Storiesofshelter.com. Dave and Burnadette and the Fourthstream Team Here is a song for your week: More:
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S9E01 - First King - Then Kingdom - Then Church
06/10/2025
S9E01 - First King - Then Kingdom - Then Church
There is a basic understanding Jesus tried to communicate to humanity when He came to the earth. When we get this right there is fruitfulness in our lives - when we don't varying degrees of misinformation prevail. Both John the Baptist (Jesus' cousin) and Jesus proclaimed the same thing: "Turn away and turn toward, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 3:2; Matthew 4:17; Matthew 10:7) The world had been languishing for centuries since the Garden episode. Genesis 1-11, the Law and prophets, and the Psalms are the story of the Jews - and all the nations. Not only is our condition exposed over and over through the imperfect Jewish story, God extends invitation for them (and us) to reverse course. Sadly, even the "chosen" Jewish nation does not listen to our Creator. God's chosen people wasted and rejected His words over and over again. This is made plain through story after story - life after life - decade after decade. So while the earth had rejected her King, the Father (who is slow to anger - filled with lovingkindness) makes away for men and women from every nation and every story to be brought into the acceptance of our Lord Creator - through His selfless sacrifice of His Son. Now there is a way back to God. He is the Door of the sheep. So Jesus said to them again, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture." John 10:7-9 If you are new to the God Story check out this big picture overview - literally the ! And if you want the next level of where all 66 books fit in - ! And here are several links to the foundational information of God's Story! (2 teaching videos) King David (the clearest "type" of Christ in the God Story) tells us about this prophetically in Psalm 2. We like to call this Psalm "Kiss the Son." Let's take a look: "Why are the nations in an uproar and the peoples devising worthless things?The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers scheme together - against the One True God and against His Anointed (smeared), saying, "Let us tear their limitations of us apart and cast away their ties away from us!” He who sits in the heavens laughs: the One True God scoffs at them. Soon He will speak to them in His anger and terrify them in His righteous fury, saying, "But as for Me, I have installed My King upon Zion My holy mountain.” “I will surely tell of what is eternally inscribed from the One Great God. He said to Me, ‘You are My Son and today I have brought You forth. Ask of Me, and I will surely give the nations as Your inheritance, and the very ends of the earth as Your possession. You shall break them with a rod of iron and you shall shatter them like clay pots.’” Therefore, O kings, show discernment and take warning, O judges of the earth. Worship the One True God with reverence and honor, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, that He not become angry, and you perish in the way. For His wrath will soon be kindled. How blessed are all who take refuge in Him!" √ Refuge IS shelter: this is why we have created StoriesofShelter.com. It is Who our great God IS. √ No one is exempt from His righteous hand of justice. (a thread: Deuteronomy 32:35; Romans 12:19; Hebrews 10:30) √ The King of the earth brings us the Kingdom of God - and the Church brings refuge authority for us and our neighbors. Dear Lord Jesus, we come to you to be restored in You, to receive all the grace and mercy we so desperately need this day. You are our Great I Am/God-of-the angel-armies. We surrender every aspect of our lives and selves completely to You. I offer You my spirit, soul and body, my heart, mind, my conscience, and my will. We stand in grace completely covered with Your precious, redeeming blood. As we pray we ask Your Good Spirit to restore and renew us in You. We stand in absolute agreement with Your Spirit and our intercessors and allies. You are the One true King over all the earth! Peace upon your soul, Dave and Burnadette
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S8E13 - Jesus and Turbulence
06/03/2025
S8E13 - Jesus and Turbulence
I just finished Jordan Peterson's latest book "We Who Wrestle With God." I like how he reasons, and even though I am not ready to place him in the upper echelon of my spiritual teachers, he is a genuine, thoughtful soul. One premise of his book relates to the relationship between chaos and order, something many philosophers, scientists, and faith reflectors see as key for arriving at a satisfied mind. How do we align with incredible design and order while at the same time dealing with the often hurtful fruits of chaos? If you are like me this can be a quagmire of sorting through the beautiful things in our lives as well as the nagging difficulties which emerge from within and without. Jesus was faced with this every day of His short time on earth. He wrestled with beauty and chaos, hope and disappointment, and as He was chosen by His Father to make "all things new," faced His designated purpose with resolve, joy, and much personal sacrificial pain. Burnadette and I spent an entire Finding Hope podcast season sorting through some of the mysteries and realties of living in what often feels like a wasteland. Here is the first episode of a number of contemplations which you may find helpful in learning about and sorting through your own imperfect journey. Take a moment and list the aspects of imperfection you have experienced in your life. √ Where you have been overtaken by fear. √ When you have felt hopeless. √ Your greatest triumphs. √ Your greatest disappointments. Jesus is with us through all imperfection and chaos. Here are a few thoughts for you to use to reflect. Hebrews 13:5 √ What about Jesus makes Him enough? √ Check out Deuteronomy 31:6 and Joshua 1:5 for why we can count on Him! Matthew 28:19,20 √ What authority is being spoken of here? √ What does being "with" us entail? John 8:51; 10:28 √ What is the staying power mentioned here? √ How secure are those who are Jesus' friends? Matthew 11:28-30 √ How does friendship impact our personal turbulence? Revelation 21:5 √ What does this mean and in what way can I count on it? You may also wish to consider Psalm 6/Backstroke In Tears. Chaos and pain are a given. Sometimes self-inflicted and often brought about by circumstances or other times the choices of others. Diving deep into chaos and order and human turbulence can be good for the mind - and the heart! Dave and Burnadette More:
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S8E12 - Jesus As Healer
05/28/2025
S8E12 - Jesus As Healer
Jesus is our Savior, Healer, and Friend. He alone can restore the access of honor we need to reconnect with Creator God. Let's follow part of this thread! “This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you. This I command you, that you love one another." John 15:12-17 I can remember a few songs from my childhood as a little Lutheran (confirmed by the skin of my teeth). This one always stuck. Carrying weights. Bringing hope. Giving peace. "What a friend we have in Jesus. All our sins and griefs to bear. What a privilege to carry, everything to God in prayer. O what peace we often forfeit. O what needless pain we bear. All because we do not carry. Everything to God in prayer" "Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged - Take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we find a friend so faithful - Who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our every weakness - Take it to the Lord in prayer" "Are we weak and heavy-laden, 'Cumbered with a load of care? Precious Savior, still our refuge — Take it to the Lord in prayer. Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer. In His arms He’ll take and shield thee, Thou wilt find a solace there" Despite the thou's and thee's I find this song to have spiritual meaning to me. In my life I have learned to talk to God about everything, even though this has been an unfolding learning process. I am so glad He has plenty of time on His hands :) Perhaps one goals of life is cultivating a reflective journey where we have learned to give our "trials, temptations, and troubles" to the One who sees us. I am counting on my friendship with Jesus. This is why I try to "do what He tells me to do." It is so cool that I am not on a journey of perfection but one of humility. This is the story process of every character in the Bible, including Jesus: "In the days of His flesh, He offered up both prayers and supplications with loud crying and tears to the One able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverent submission." Hebrews 5:7 A crashing note: "You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God." James 4:4 √ How is your Jesus friendship? √ In what ways does it eclipse friendship with the world? √ How have you been able to share your weights with Jesus? √ In what ways would you say you have an honorable friendship with Him? A final thought from Matthew 11: “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Peace with our Friend, friend! Dave and Burnadette More:
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S8E11 - Jesus As Healer
05/20/2025
S8E11 - Jesus As Healer
Healing is a curious concept with many opinions on the what, how, and why. A survey of known history makes it quite clear that no one healed like Jesus did. Even within all of the other religions of antiquity there is no one like Him, and some religious healer's miracles were pretty lame. Jesus, however, did nothing in a corner. He was transparent and prolific. And those who witnessed what He did were not all His fans. In fact, the most zealous religionists of history do not measure up to the scribes and pharisees who were capable and willing to go to great lengths to discredit or stop Jesus. Just as there are today. You will need to investigate for yourself whether or not Jesus was an authentic healer - a reverser of maladies and curses. Did the thirty plus recorded miracles actually happen or are they merely a concocted series of stories? And this was just the tip of the spear. "But he went out and began to proclaim it freely and to spread the news around, to such an extent that Jesus could no longer publicly enter a city, but stayed out in unpopulated areas; and they were coming to Him from everywhere." (Mark 1:45) Jesus was an explosion the likes of which the world had never seen! Next we must pursue the thread from the God Story where Jesus still heals men, women, and children from every decade, century, and people group. Is He this influential? Does His power extend to the souls and bodies of any and all of mankind? Was His purpose in coming to earth merely to heal bodies - or to save and heal souls? We think this is the greatest question of all time. Once you have decided that Jesus really was and is a healer of souls it is time to personally experience Him deeply. √ If you feel you are stuck - He can help. √ If you feel you are worthless - He can restore your value and your identity. √ If you are pressed down and smothered - He can set you free. √ If you are captivated by fear and the weights of your life - He is there for you. We extend this conversation into the two links below - which unfold much more on this unique power that has been experienced by so many. Peace friend! Dave and Burnadette More:
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S8E10 - God's Home Base is our homebase
05/13/2025
S8E10 - God's Home Base is our homebase
Everyone operates from a home base. Our upbringing. Our experiences. Our choices. Even factors made on our behalf by others. Through all of this we build our home base. Scientifically we apply what we see and learn. Philosophical we land on what we have wrestled with in our lives - positively and negatively. And to the degree we have encountered and contemplated faith we solidify our beliefs. Or not. We have pondered this through the years, and often with each turning of a new year we have reset ourselves to sift through what has unfolded and what we hope - and the things we are committed to for the days ahead. It is a very imperfect process, but the reset always brings us one or more degrees of focus from our core - and into our home base. Choosing to represent ourselves accurately and honestly can be helpful as we assess our progress on the journey. It can allow for an informed and sincere refocusing and choices which add up with solid "vision". Our calculus and direction Many speak of vision but we have learned to ask what principles are guiding our choices? What is it we want to accomplish? What will bring us a satisfied mind? What am I doing this moment and how will it impact the desire of my heart? Investment in our relationships Living for what we can give others rather than merely what we can get from them is an amazingly different way to live. Family. Friends. Co-workers. Neighbors. Like-minded companions. Expenditures of our time Someone has said "Time is like a flowing river. Our best choices involve scooping up buckets of time and watering things which will not go away." God and people are eternal. Everything else is a vapor. There is both an audio and video recording for you to choose from on a subject worth contemplating. After all, who wants to spend our life climbing a wall only to find we have been climbing the wrong wall?! Dave and Burnadette Doing our best to live under His wings!
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S8E09 - Shelter of Connection
05/06/2025
S8E09 - Shelter of Connection
One deep question for life seekers: "what does connection with God look like?" For years authors have pondered this, scientifically, philosophically, and through the optics of faith. For Moses it was all about shelter. Check out Psalm 90. A Prayer of Moses, the man of God. "Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were born or You gave birth to the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. You turn man back into dust and say, “Return, O children of men.” For a thousand years in Your sight are like yesterday when it passes by, or as a watch in the night. You have swept them away like a flood and they fall asleep. In the morning they are like grass which sprouts again - in the morning it flourishes and sprouts and toward evening it fades and withers away. For we have been consumed by Your anger and by Your wrath we have been dismayed. You have placed our iniquities before You and our secret sins in the light of Your presence. For all our days have declined in Your fury and we have finished our years like a sigh. As for the days of our life, they contain seventy years, or if due to strength, eighty years, yet their pride amounts only to labor and sorrow. For soon it is gone and we fly away. Who understands the power of Your anger and Your fury, according to the fear that is due You? So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom. Do return, O Lord; how long will it be? And be sorry for Your servants. Satisfy us in the morning with Your lovingkindness, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. Make us glad according to the days You have afflicted us, and the years we have seen evil. Let Your work appear to Your servants and Your majesty to their children. Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us and confirm for us the work of our hands. Yes, confirm the work of our hands. A Psalm of David/Psalm 61For the choir director on a stringed instrument. "Hear my cry, O God; give heed to my prayer. From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For You have been a refuge for me, a tower of strength against the enemy. Let me dwell in Your tent forever; let me take refuge in the shelter of Your wings. Selah (I lift this up). For You have heard my vows, O God; You have given me the inheritance of those who fear Your name. You will prolong the king’s life; his years will be as many generations. He will abide before God forever; appoint lovingkindness and truth that they may preserve him. So I will sing praise to Your name forever, that I may pay my vows day by day." David understood a number of things about his connection to His King. √ Stability comes from a higher place. √ True shelter is forever. √ Living in God's tent is a choice - and a blessing for this life and the one to come. √ For David it was a connection of heart, mind, and soul. Connection Questions: - When and how have you felt most connected to your Creator? - What brings this kind of connection for you? - Do you feel you have come to trust God for your welfare? - In what ways does fear challenge you? Where does Jesus fit into your God connection? John 17 is a Son-to-Father connection conversation. Take the time to check it out. What was it that Jesus wanted for His children? Headed where we belong! Dave and Burnadette Storiesofshelter.com More:
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S8E08 - Shelter of The Spirit
04/29/2025
S8E08 - Shelter of The Spirit
As mentioned before, the trinity is in many ways a mystery to us. It is not to our Creator. In Genesis 1 "the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters." The Father created and the Spirit moved. From His mind to His hands. And where was the Son while this unfolded? Apparently creating right along with Him. "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities — all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven." Colossians 1:15-20 There is no doubt that this is the Son mentioned in Psalm 2 and the One named Jesus according to hundreds of years of incredible prophecies. Now move forward to the "last" chapter of God's Word - Revelation 22:12-17: “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end. Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter by the gates into the city. Outside are the dogs and the sorcerers and the immoral persons and the murderers and the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices lying. I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star. The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost." Do you see it? The Biblical thread of the Spirit (Holy Spirit) is found from chapter 1 through chapter last. He is the hands and feet of God. And His shelter extends to our souls as well, because if God wills it, the Spirit does it. And this is very personal to every disciple of Jesus. “When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that is the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify about Me, and you will testify also, because you have been with Me from the beginning." John 15:26-27 Also note Proverbs 8 regarding the wisdom of God! So the shelter of the Holy Spirit is everything because He IS the shelter of the Father and His dear Son. The Father is the mind Who creates, the Son is at His right hand to bring Him honor, and the Holy Spirit creates and animates the Wisdom of God. Does this make sense? As with all areas of the threads of truth from the Word of God, God weaves together what we need to understand His mind and heart - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit! There is much to say on this subject but let's summarize with how the Holy Spirit specifically gives us shelter. √ He discloses Jesus to us. √ He cleanses our conscience and heals our heart. √ He leads us in truth when we do not know what to do or where to go. √ He brings us into the peaceful presence of God Himself. “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose it to you." John 16:13-15 Peace in the Spirit to you friend! Dave and Burnadette More:
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S8E07 - Shelter of the Father
04/22/2025
S8E07 - Shelter of the Father
God is a sheltering being. He provides shelter. But even more than this - He IS shelter. In fact, He is building the ultimate shelter family through the work of His Son. Jesus is the connector to our Creator. God wants to mentor us. We know this because He mentored Jesus. The Son’s best friend while He was on the earth was His Dad. He learned from Him. He was dedicated to His will. He gave up all things God and all things human for His friendship with His Father. You can find Mentored by God under books in the Fourthstream navbar. It investigates the ins and outs of how Jesus connected with His Dad, giving us a template for our own connection. Here are few things to help connect us with the Father of all living things √ Sort through your own personal daddy issues and cut them off from projecting onto the heavenly Father. √ Jesus Name is key to communicating with the Father. When you come to your Father acknowledge the authority of His dear Son Who covers our sin and offers access to God’s throne. √ Activate the honor of your heart alongside the respect you hold for your Creator and the opportunity to live pleasing to Him. Humility is the key to His Kingdom: “Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, but humility goes before honor.” – Proverbs 18:12 √ Embrace your Father’s voice above all others. When God’s Word is known and revered, it is a powerful connector and helps us discern His voice among all of the voices we hear each day from within and without. The Holy Spirit is God's voice to the world and to us. How can we hear such a transcendent voice? “Therefore the LORD God of Israel declares, ‘I did indeed say that your house and the house of your father should walk before Me forever’; but now the LORD declares, ‘Far be it from Me — for those who honor Me I will honor, and those who despise Me will be lightly esteemed.” – 1 Samuel 2:30 This is pretty cool: “Then David the king went in and sat before the LORD, and he said, “Who am I, O Lord GOD, and what is my house, that You have brought me this far?” – 2 Samuel 7:18 Sometimes we feel God does not hear us. This is simply not true. All things brought in the Name of Jesus will come before our Creator. In fact, “the pure (humble) in heart will see God!” Talking to Him with you, Dave and Burnadette Related Links:
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