How should you respond to people that you don’t agree with?

In this message we answer that question by looking at the end of Jonah’s story. What Jonah did once he got out of the whale serves as a good grid for checking whether your concerns line up with God’s concerns.

Three days inside the belly of a fish?

The Bible says Jonah spent three days inside the fish that swallowed him! But it was inside that fish that Jonah found his way back to God. Jonah’s story has important lessons for each of us. In this message you will be reminded of the deep love of your Heavenly Father, and His desire to see you restored. He still has a plan for you!

Remember that story about Jonah getting swallowed by a giant fish? Well, there's more to that story...

Jonah was a runner. When God called him to go to Nineveh, he decided to run the opposite direction. He thought he could outrun God...but God orchestrated events to get him back on track. He will do the same for us. Don't run. Follow.

Conflict inevitably happens.

Even at church, we are going to disagree occasionally. It happens! The true test of our faith and maturity is—How will we conduct ourselves, and how will we resolve those issues? In this message we learn how to handle conflict the right way.

Ready to experience freedom?

In this message we look at a story during a time where the early church was facing intense persecution. Some disciples were put to death, but Peter was put in prison. It wasn't long until God freed Peter - and that same freedom can be yours today!

Do you need a miracle? Have you been praying and asking God for years? Don't give up! Our God is faithful. Today could be your day! In this message you will hear the story of Peter healing a man who had been waiting for his miracle for a long time. It's a faith building message!

Is failure avoidable?

Absolutely! In this message we look at a time when Peter failed big. You'll learn the warning signs of failure, and how to recognize those red flags in your own life. There is hope!

Is there a price for following Jesus?

In this message, we study a moment when Jesus had to speak clearly and directly to prepare His disciples, His closest followers, for persecution. This wasn’t an easy message then, and isn’t any easier now. It's a key lesson for every follower of Jesus!

In this episode, we look at one of the best-known Bible stories in our series on Lessons from the Life of Peter. Through Peter’s story of facing a storm, you’ll learn what to do and how to survive when you face storms in your own life. You'll be encouraged by the reminder that Jesus is with you in the storm!

Blessing Follows Obedience. In this message we look at a story from the Bible when God provided for Peter in a miraculous way. In it you'll learn important principles for opening the door to God’s blessing in your own life.

Peter learned some pretty tough lessons while following Jesus as one of His disciples. In this message, we take a hard look at what it cost Peter to follow Jesus—and how that applies to anyone who accepts Jesus as Lord of their life.

He is on your side, and He’s going to watch over you, protect you, and see you through. Through songs and videos, along with a message on the final promise of the year, we reflect on all the promises we’ve learned throughout 2020.

For unto us a savior was born, and His name is Jesus! We celebrate Christmas because of His birth and gift of salvation ✨

Are you ready for the sights and sounds of Christmas? This service is full of incredible music, exciting elements, and an incredible story about God’s Promise of joy given at the first Christmas in Bethlehem. There may be sadness and discouragement around us, but because of Jesus, you can have joy!

In this message, we study God’s Promise to answer your prayers. If you have loved ones visiting for Thanksgiving—bring them with you, or tune in together online! The service is engaging and high-energy, full of music and testimonies that demonstrate the faithfulness of our God.

In this message, we study God’s Promise of salvation. If you have been on the edge of completely surrendering control to Jesus, this for you! If you have been praying for unsaved friends and loved ones, share this with them. It’s a powerful message full of testimonies and music, all pointing to the incredible redeeming power and love of our God.

In this episode, we study God’s Promise to strengthen you and protect you. If you’ve been going through a tough time and are feeling defeated, this message is for you. You’ll be encouraged by the promise that you serve a supernatural God who is greater than your enemy!

In this message, we’ll study one of God’s Promises you can stand on in times of sickness. Pastor Rod will answer common questions about healing.

Whether you’ve been waiting on a miracle for days, years, or decades—God’s healing power is real, and it’s available to you. Our team is looking forward to praying with you to receive it!

In this message, we look at one of God’s Promises that demonstrates how His blessings correspond to your generosity. Getting ahold of this promise is THE antidote to anxiety and frustration about your finances!

This weekend, we’ll look at God’s Promise of hope—of a new beginning, a clean slate, a fresh start. And, once you really grasp this promise, there’s no way you’ll be able to keep it to yourself! It is life-changing hope, and it’s for everyone.

In this message, we will look at one of God’s Promises that addresses the issue of prejudice. It’s found at the end of one of the most remarkable stories in Scripture.

You will be challenged to think, and act differently. Come with an open heart, an open mind. This promise is an incredible opportunity to become more like Jesus—to see like He sees and love like He loves.

"Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy." {Psalm 126:5}

Nothing is wasted with God. You may be enduring a tough trial, or even a tough season, but on the other side of this trouble is victory! Today we look at a promise of God found in Psalm 126:5 that gives us peace for exactly this type of season.

In this message as we study a promise Jesus gave His disciples shortly before His crucifixion. You’ll learn an important truth that will help you not only keep going, but walk in victory—no matter what this life throws at you!

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." {Matthew 11:28}

Feeling weary? Burdened? Carrying a heavy load? Ready to give up? Just tells us to come to Him, allowing His strength to help us carry whatever we are facing. His burden is light. He can, and will, bring you rest!

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." {Philippians 4:6-7}

In this message, we study a promise that will help you maintain a sense of peace, in spite of the chaos around you. You’ll hear a powerful story that demonstrates God’s peace in tough circumstances, and Pastor Rod will share a way of looking at troubles that can absolutely change your worries into calm confidence in your Heavenly Father.

Worry and peace? How do you overcome the worries, stresses, and anxieties of this world? How do you find the constant peace that God can provide? Join us this morning as we look at the first promise of God that answers these questions!

"Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously." {2 Corinthians 9:6}

The Bible doesn’t mince words about even the most difficult topics—including what you should do with your possessions. If you’ve suspected God’s commands about giving are just a ploy to get your money or control you, join us as we take a look at one of God’s Promises about generosity, and a time in scripture when His people were unbelievably, selflessly giving. You’ll learn principles that could radically change the way you view your resources!

"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." {John 8:36}

The word “freedom” brings different concepts to mind for everyone. Maybe you think about walking around without a mask, or turning on your TV without seeing another depressing news story or political ad. You don’t have to live captive to sin, bad habits, worry, doubt, or others’ opinions. Our God promises freedom!

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’[a] or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” {Revelation 21:4}

Do you get excited when you think about going to Heaven one day? You should - because Heaven is the goal - and what a home Heaven will be! Check out this message, where Pastor Rod breaks down Revelation 21:4 and reminds us that heaven is the goal!

"...no weapon formed against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me," declares the Lord.

In a battle? Lost hope? We have a promise that no weapon formed against us will prevail. The Lord has given us victory!

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” {Joshua 1:9} Feeling afraid? Been discouraged recently? There's a promise for that! Listen to Pastor Rod as he breaks down a promise found in the book of Joshua that teaches us to be strong and courageous!

"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." {Isaiah 40:31}

Been tired recently? Feeling weary? Today's promise is for you! It's time to look up and let God renew your strength.

You don't have to live in worry or fear - our God supplies all of our needs. Whether in a season of plenty, or a season of little, God is watching over you and providing for you!

We serve a God who delivers us from ALL our troubles! In this message, Pastor Rod breaks down God's promise from Psalm 34. Watch along with us and tell us what you learned down in the comments below!

Sometimes life can just feel like too much. Don't give up though. God has promised you that He will bring you through. Join us as we look at one of God's promises found in the book of James!

In the book of Isaiah, we find a story of the Israelites when they stopped worshipping - they stopped singing. In this message, Pastor Rod breaks down the story and challenges us to keep singing, regardless of the season we are in! You will be encouraged by God's Promise from this story!

In the good seasons - and the bad - God promises to be our place of refuge. In Him we find strength and peace. Watch the message to learn more about a promise of God found in the book of Psalms!

Life may not be fair, but thank God He isn't fair when it comes to what we deserve! In this message, we learn a promise from God found in 2 Corinthians that speaks to exactly this. "We have placed our confidence in him, and he will continue to rescue us."

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."

In this message, Pastor Rod breaks down this promise from 2 Corinthians. It's a powerful truth that will change how you look at yourself and the way you approach life!

"For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength." [Philippians 4:13"

In this message, Pastor Rod breaks down this promise from Philippians! It's a well known promise from scripture, but you might just find it has a deeper meaning to it that might change your perspective!

For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock. [Psalm 27:5]

This promise of God will be an encouraging, life changing promise to hold on to! The Lord is faithful and He will keep you safe when you take refuge in His presence.

2 Chron. 20:15 Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.

Pastor Rod breaks down this powerful promise and reminds us it's not our battle, but the Lord's! He is fighting for us!

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. {Galatians 6:9}

Pastor David Wiggington - who pastors Cornerstone Christian Fellowship in Bloomington, Indiana - shares his story and how he discovered how faithful the Lord is, when we choose to be faithful. Just because you don't see fruit now, doesn't mean to Lord isn't faithful. Keep being faithful. Keep being obedient. Watch how faithful the Lord is!

"The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still." {Exodus 14:14}

It's against our nature, but being still before the Lord is Biblical. It reminds us the the Lord is in control, and invites Him to fight our battles for us. Try it this week, be still before the Lord!

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." {Isaiah 41:10}

You are not alone. Whatever you are facing, the Lord is your strength! He is with you and He is always faithful. So do not fear!

In this episode, we look at a promise from God found in Matthew 6. If you're facing uncertainty, take comfort in the reminder that God knows exactly what you need!

"...and He will give you the desires of your heart." One of the most quoted verses in the Bible...but what if it's also one of the most misunderstood?  In this sermon we will discover how we can apply this promise.  It could change your life!

God has a plan for each of us--including our kids. Whether or not you have children of your own, you likely have influence in the life of a child. Raising others to know and follow Jesus is an awesome privilege--and responsibility. In this message we will tackle a promise many parents cling to when their kids are far from God, but it's really a promise for all of us!

People have a lot of questions, doubts and misunderstanding about God. But, this is the biggest one of all. This is the question people who don't know Jesus wrestle with. And - to be honest, this is the question people who do know Jesus wrestle with. It's a tough one - "Why do bad things happen to good people?

No matter what stage of life you're in, you have plans for your future--where you'll go, what you'll do, who you'll be with. But what if those plans don't work out? Or, what if your plans turn our to be no good at all? Thankfully God promised He has plans for you, too--and they are good!

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." Jesus has promised to be our good shepherd.

Today we explore one of the most-quoted promises in the Bible about God's trustworthiness. Do you have questions about how to trust the Lord or what He promises to do in return? If you have been struggling to trust the Lord about and area of your life, this message is for you.

We continue "God's Promises," by looking at an incredibly encouraging promise made by Jesus--you don't have to walk in darkness, but can walk in light. It's absolutely life-changing!

God promises that He has a plan for our future, and that includes the future of our nation. This weekend, we will look at one of God's promises that includes specific actions and behavior on our part, in order to see the nation strong and healthy. We will look to God's word to define the position of our hearts and guide our interactions with others. It's not a message you want to miss!

What began twelve months ago as a staff discussion about which of God's promises meant the most to us has turned into what could be the most encouraging year you've ever spent in church! This weekend, we start a year long series on God's promises. Get ready to be encouraged as we learn and memorize a new promise of God each weekend here at First NLR!

What is a healthy church? This message is critical for all of us--whether you've been part of the First NLR family for days, or decades. We'll examine what the Bible defines as a healthy church, and recommit to those principles together!

With the year coming to an end, many people are deciding on their resolutions for the new year. What's the one big thing you're planning to work on? We will look at how to commit to change, but more importantly start the new year fresh and more like Jesus!

Join us as we celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ.

I have forgiven my peers, but what do I do if I have to forgive myself? How do I get rid of the self shame I have brought onto myself? This weekend, we will look at the Bible and take a look at what it says about how to forgive ourselves.

How do we forgive, and how can we move past major hurts?  How can I just move on?  This weekend, we'll use scripture to figure out the biblical way to forgive those who hurt us most.

Why should you forgive, when the hurt may not even be your fault? Shouldn't the offending person make the first move? This weekend, we'll take a look at Scripture to determine why forgiveness is not only a good idea--but imperative for every believer. 

Forgiveness is a practice at the heart of our faith. This weekend, we'll start a new series on forgiveness by exploring what it means--and doesn't mean--to forgive.

As a church family, we understand that because every soul matters to God, every soul must matter to us. But, what does that look like in everyday life? This weekend, we'll look at practical ways of applying this guiding principle to your life.

"Every Soul Matters to God" is a phrase you hear a lot around here.  ESMTG. We print it on t-shirts, cups, pens--everything imaginable!  But, it's more than a catchy saying.  It is a core value.

In today's sermon, Pastor Rod recounts the story of the prophet Elijah at an incredibly low point in his life. It is a model for overcoming discouragement and depression.

Naaman's is the story of an unexpected miracle and an unexpected hero. Even if you have heard this story before, you might be surprised!

Pride comes at a high price. In this sermon we will study one of the most prideful men in the Old Testament - King Nebuchadnezzar.

Pastor Rod Loy sits down with missionaries Derek and Tammy Walker to discuss their important work in Africa.

Do you ever feel like God isn't making sense? In this message, we study the story of a man who obeyed God even when it didn't make sense.

We continue our series Great Bible Stories by looking at the story of a lesser known character from the Bible - Ehud. This story of obedience and faithfulness reminds us that God uses unlikely people to do amazing things.

Every family is different, and sadly, today we see a lot of families who have ongoing conflict! This weekend we study one of the most famous stories from the Bible surrounding conflict within the family, and learn how to end those family feuds. It's time to resolve conflict biblically and bring unity to the family.

In this new series called "Great Bible Stories", we look at Josiah, the youngest boy to rule Judah. It is an encouraging message that will remind us that we are never too young to be used by God.

We conclude our series "Teach Us To Pray" with the last line of the Lord's prayer. It is a powerful lesson on how to maintain a healthy God-dependence, recognizing that everything we have and everything we are comes from Him!

"and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil..." In a society that normalizes sin, how do we recognize temptation? How do we prepare ourselves for battle and ask the lord to give us strength to stand against temptation? Today we look at the fifth line of the Lord's prayer as Pastor Rod breaks down how to pray this way.

Forgiveness isn't an easy subject, but it is an incredibly important one. In the fourth part of his Teach Us To Pray series, Pastor Rod will discuss the key components of one of the toughest lines of the Lord's prayer. "Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors..."

We continue our series, Teach Us To Pray, by looking at the third line of the Lord's Prayer which asks us to depend upon God for our daily needs. Pastor Rod's message will challenge you to let go and fully depend upon God for the strength you need.

We continue our series, Teach Us To Pray, by looking at the second line of the Lord's Prayer. Pastor Rod will break down this powerful sentence, teaching what it means to seek after the will of God, allowing Him to be in control. #FirstNLR #RodLoy #TeachUsToPray #ESMTG

In this first message of the Teach Us to Pray series, Pastor Rod explores the opening of the Lord's Prayer as a model for beginning our daily time with our Heavenly Father.

All followers of Christ should make the pursuit of the presence of God their first priority. Powerful blessings accompany Gods presence. In this message, Pastor Rod finishes our series on worship by talking about preparing for the presence of God.

King David made a big mistake when he tried to bring the arc of the covenant to Jerusalem the first time, and he learned a hard lesson. Pastor Rod teaches us how we can learn about effective worship through Kind David's second try. David got it right that time, and we can too.

King David, on a mission to bring the Arc of the Covenant back to Jerusalem, made a mistake in judgement that separated him and his people from the presence of God. In this message, Pastor Rod teaches how David's mistake and later his realization is a lesson to all of us about the great value of staying in the presence of God.

If you grew up in church, you probably were taught about the story of The Good Samaritan. What was Jesus really trying to teach us from this parable? What does "love your neighbor" mean to a follower of Jesus?

Watching the way we live, it appears we believe "My life consists of what I have -- my stuff."  Jesus warns us about the dangers of a life consumed by greed in a parable that you may not have heard before.

One of the most confusing stories Jesus told was the parable of the talents.  In this message Pastor Rod reveals how Jesus's story illustrates God's approach to his resources and our responsibilities.

From one of Jesus' parables we learn that God loves everyone and heaven celebrates when someone makes the decision to follow Jesus. From another story, we learn that God seeks after those who are lost.

There is a seat at the table for you! You are welcome to be a part of God's family. Pastor Rod looks at an incredible story Jesus told and what it means for you.

#firstnlr #esmtg #parable

Have you ever looked down on people who don’t have “as much of God" as you? Maybe you've seen someone who is new to faith and struggling with addiction and thought, “They just need to clean themselves up.” Pastor Brian teaches what to do if you struggle with spiritual pride.

One missing piece can ruin things.  A nine-thousand piece puzzle with one missing piece is worthless.  Sports teams, businesses, and relationships routinely fail because of some vital, missing element.  In this Easter message, Pastor Rod discusses the importance of finding that important, missing piece in our lives.

Pastor Rod concludes our series on Healing. One touch from Jesus can change everything. Regardless of your situation, Jesus can and wants to heal you.

What is the "right" way to be healed? Do miracles only happen if you follow a formula? Who has to pray if you want to be healed? Pastor Rod Loy walks through these questions and more.

Looking at stories from the Bible, Pastor Rod shares practical ways to care for someone battling long-term illness and things to remember if you are battling a long-term illness.

Pastor Rod begins our new series looking at stories from the Bible when people were miraculously healed by Jesus.

We finish our series on The Fruit of the Spirit with the final fruit, one that seems to be increasingly rare in our angry, out-of-control society: self-control.

Society doesn't often reward the gentle over the harsh or the humble over the judgmental.  It has even become common for Christians to match the world's harsh injustice with a kind of "righteous" harshness.  In this eighth lesson on the fruit of the Spirit, we explore the gentle attitude that Jesus expects of his followers.