Latest / Marriage Life and More and Bible Study / Unqualified - The Player Gets Played, Pt 10 - 191

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Unqualified - The Player Gets Played, Pt 10 - 191 · Marriage Life and More and Bible Study

• 0:04
  Daniel Moore: The Me First mentality is a mindset that prioritizes personal gain and success above all else, often at the expense of others.
• 0:11
  Daniel Moore: It promotes the idea that in order to get ahead in life, one must be cunning, cutthroat and willing to do whatever it takes to come out on top.
• 0:20
  Daniel Moore: This mentality can lead individuals to engage in deceptive or manipulative behavior in the pursuit of success.
• 0:26
  Daniel Moore: Jacob initially embraced this me-first mentality, using deceit, manipulation, to gain an advantage over others, including his own brother Esau and his uncle Laban.
• 0:36
  Daniel Moore: However, he eventually learned that this approach was not sustainable in the long run.
• 0:41
  Daniel Moore: In the long run, he experienced firsthand the consequences of his actions and realized that relying solely on his own cunning and cleverness could ultimately lead to his downfall.
• 0:51
  Daniel Moore: This week, on Connecting the Gap, we're continuing our study on feeling unqualified as we get into part 10 of this series, and we'll be back right after this.
• 1:01
  Daniel Moore: Welcome to Connecting the Gap.
• 1:04
  Daniel Moore: I'm Daniel Moore, your host.
• 1:06
  Daniel Moore: Thank you guys once again for joining us this week for another brand new episode of the podcast.
• 1:40
  Daniel Moore: If you're not familiar with our show, you can check out our website at wwwconnectingthegapnet.
• 1:45
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• 1:47
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• 1:49
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• 1:52
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• 1:57
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• 2:07
  Daniel Moore: We love to hear what other people have to say about our ministry and we hope you'll take advantage of that.
• 2:12
  Daniel Moore: Well, as I stated here in the intro, we are in part 10 of our 12-part series on feeling unqualified.
• 2:20
  Daniel Moore: This week we're going to be talking about the Player Gets Played.
• 2:41
  Daniel Moore: A pastor once told a story about his sons, graham and Elijah.
• 2:44
  Daniel Moore: When they asked him to tell them a Bible story just before bedtime, they were probably just using this as a spiritual stall tactic, but, as the pastor said, I'm a sucker.
• 2:55
  Daniel Moore: Well, there's this one story in the Bible about wrestling match, but you probably wouldn't want to hear it.
• 3:00
  Daniel Moore: He teased.
• 3:01
  Daniel Moore: Yes, yes, please tell us.
• 3:03
  Daniel Moore: They said.
• 3:04
  Daniel Moore: So he began to tell them about Jacob and Esau and how they wrestled in their mommy's belly.
• 3:09
  Daniel Moore: He went on to tell them about the twins.
• 3:11
  Daniel Moore: He explained how Jacob was born, trying to beat his brother, and how he spent years of his life lying and deceiving to get what he wanted.
• 3:19
  Daniel Moore: He told them about the time Jacob pretended to be Esau and tricked his dad into giving the blessing to him instead of Esau.
• 3:27
  Daniel Moore: During the story he happened to mention that Isaac would have put his right hand on Jacob's head when he blessed him, because it was the hand of authority, the hand of the firstborn.
• 3:38
  Daniel Moore: The boys could definitely relate to all the competition and sibling rivalry, and when he got up to the part about Jacob fighting the angel, they were totally into it.
• 3:48
  Daniel Moore: You know, he may or may not have demonstrated a few gentle ultimate fighting championship moves on them to make that scene come alive.
• 3:57
  Daniel Moore: Well, his story choice was a success.
• 3:59
  Daniel Moore: The boys were completely engrossed and bummed when it ended, but he didn't comprehend the extent to which they were paying attention until a few nights later it was bedtime again.
• 4:10
  Daniel Moore: He laid them down for a minute so that they could say their prayers.
• 4:13
  Daniel Moore: Now he didn't do this every time that he prays for them, but this particular night he happened to put his hands on their heads while he was praying.
• 4:21
  Daniel Moore: He just happened to put his right hand on Elijah, his oldest, and his left hand on Graham, the youngest, and he didn't mean anything by it, but suddenly he felt Graham reach up and grab his right hand.
• 4:33
  Daniel Moore: He pulled it off of Elijah's head and put it on his own.
• 4:36
  Daniel Moore: Well, elijah figured out what was happening before the pastor did and he yanked the pastor's hand back and said oh no, you don't Too late, graham gloated.
• 4:47
  Daniel Moore: Then came the line that made the pastor's night.
• 4:50
  Daniel Moore: Just call me Jacob sucker.
• 4:53
  Daniel Moore: The pastor said he really did make this story up.
• 4:57
  Daniel Moore: At the time the kids were around five years old and he said clearly, our family needs some prayer.
• 5:03
  Daniel Moore: You know that statement.
• 5:05
  Daniel Moore: Just call me Jacob.
• 5:07
  Daniel Moore: You know, as the kids illustrated.
• 5:10
  Daniel Moore: Thousands of years after the original Jacob Esau wrestling match, nothing has changed.
• 5:14
  Daniel Moore: The same hill-grabbing, self-centered tendency is alive and well in all of us.
• 5:20
  Daniel Moore: No one has to teach us to fight for what we want.
• 5:24
  Daniel Moore: No one has to show us how to lie and deceive and to steal.
• 5:29
  Daniel Moore: It comes naturally.
• 5:31
  Daniel Moore: You know, from the moment that we are born.
• 5:35
  Daniel Moore: We are driven by a desire to protect and advance ourselves.
• 5:38
  Daniel Moore: This instinctual drive for self-preservation and self-advancement can manifest in various ways throughout our lives, often leading to conflicts and struggles with others.
• 5:49
  Daniel Moore: In the case of Jacob and Esau, they were already competing with each other before their birth, symbolizing the ongoing rivalry and conflict that would characterize their relationship.
• 6:01
  Daniel Moore: This constant struggle for dominance and power is an example of the self-motivations that can drive human behavior.
• 6:09
  Daniel Moore: It is natural for individuals to be primarily concerned with their own well-being and success.
• 6:15
  Daniel Moore: This self-focused mentality can lead to behaviors such as manipulation, deception and aggression.
• 6:21
  Daniel Moore: As individuals strive to secure their own interests, the belief that the world exists to serve our needs and desires can fuel a sense of entitlement and an insatiable drive for more.
• 6:33
  Daniel Moore: However, while self-preservation is an important instinct, excessive self-centeredness can hinder meaningful relationships and prevent personal and spiritual growth.
• 6:44
  Daniel Moore: Learning to balance our own needs with the needs of others can lead to a more fulfilling and harmonious life.
• 6:51
  Daniel Moore: By recognizing and overcoming our innate selfish tendencies, we can cultivate compassion and a greater sense of interconnectedness with the world around us.
• 7:03
  Daniel Moore: Now the story of Jacob shows that a life driven by self-serving motives can lead to prolonged struggles, broken relationships and unfilled desires.
• 7:12
  Daniel Moore: Jacob's journey taught him the hard way that his manipulative tactics and self-centered behavior did not bring lasting satisfaction or true fulfillment.
• 7:22
  Daniel Moore: Similarly, many people find themselves caught up in the cycle of self-preservation and self-advancement, constantly striving to secure their own interests at the expense of others.
• 7:35
  Daniel Moore: This mindset can lead to a sense of isolation, mistrust and emptiness, as individuals prioritize personal gain over meaningful connections and genuine compassion.
• 7:46
  Daniel Moore: While it may seem natural to focus on our own goals, needs and desires, an excessive preoccupation with self can ultimately hinder our growth.
• 7:56
  Daniel Moore: Constantly putting up defenses, plotting ahead and engaging in manipulative behaviors can create barriers between ourselves and others, preventing us from experiencing authentic relationships and genuine satisfaction.
• 8:12
  Daniel Moore: And you know, that was Jacob, always looking out for himself, always the master of his fate and always alone against the world.
• 8:22
  Daniel Moore: But you know what God didn't design us for?
• 8:26
  Daniel Moore: That?
• 8:26
  Daniel Moore: In last week's episode we looked at Jacob's propensity for pretense.
• 8:31
  Daniel Moore: He was an actor, a poser, a fake.
• 8:35
  Daniel Moore: Jacob had to learn to accept who he was before God could bless him.
• 8:40
  Daniel Moore: He became Israel when he learned to be Jacob.
• 8:45
  Daniel Moore: Jacob's tendencies towards manipulation can be seen as a reflection of his deep-rooted insecurities and lack of trust in God's providence.
• 8:52
  Daniel Moore: His relentless pursuit of personal gain and success stemmed from a fear of inadequacy and a belief that he had to rely solely on his own cunning and efforts to secure his destiny belief that he had to rely solely on his own cunning and efforts to secure his destiny.
• 9:05
  Daniel Moore: By constantly plotting and scheming to get ahead, jacob sought to compensate for his perceived weaknesses and vulnerabilities.
• 9:17
  Daniel Moore: Jacob's fixation on achieving his desires and asserting his superior ority was a result of his desperate need to prove himself and assert his identity.
• 9:23
  Daniel Moore: His relentless drive to be the best, the wealthiest and the most powerful was fueled by a deep-seated fear of failure and a need for validation from others.
• 9:35
  Daniel Moore: This relentless pursuit of success and recognition blinded Jacob to the destructive consequences of his manipulative actions and the toll it took on his relationships and sense of integrity.
• 9:47
  Daniel Moore: Ultimately, jacob's preoccupation with self-promotion and self-preservation prevented him from fully trusting in God's guidance and provision.
• 9:57
  Daniel Moore: His refusal to surrender control and acknowledge his limitations hindered his ability to experience true fulfillment and peace.
• 10:06
  Daniel Moore: It was only through a transformative encounter with God and a realization of his own vulnerability that Jacob was able to relinquish his manipulative tendencies and embrace a life of humility and faith.
• 10:19
  Daniel Moore: That's why the name Jacob was so perfect for him, as it reflected his nature as a hill grabber and a deceiver.
• 10:27
  Daniel Moore: The name Jacob itself means a planner, or he deceives, which aligns perfectly with Jacob's character and actions throughout his life.
• 10:38
  Daniel Moore: From the moment Jacob and Esau were born, jacob lived up to his name by grabbing hold of Esau's heel, symbolizing his inclination towards deception and manipulation.
• 10:47
  Daniel Moore: This initial act of rivalry and cunning set the stage for the dynamic between the two brothers, with Jacob consistently striving to come out on top and secure his own interest at the expense of others.
• 11:00
  Daniel Moore: One of the most notable instances of Jacob's deceitful behavior is seen where Esau trades his birthright to Jacob in exchange for a bowl of lentil stew.
• 11:09
  Daniel Moore: In this narrative, jacob takes advantage of Esau's hunger and impulsivity to manipulate him into giving up his birthright, a significant inheritance and privilege that belonged to the firstborn son.
• 11:22
  Daniel Moore: This cunning and opportunistic act further exemplifies Jacob's mastery of deception and willingness to exploit others for personal gain.
• 11:32
  Daniel Moore: He wanted the birthright and he was going to any extreme to get it.
• 11:37
  Daniel Moore: He was looking out for number one.
• 11:40
  Daniel Moore: Jacob saw an opening and took it.
• 11:43
  Daniel Moore: Unbelievably, esau fell for it.
• 11:46
  Daniel Moore: You know that's got to go down in the history books as one of the dumbest trades ever, right down to the bum deal.
• 11:53
  Daniel Moore: Portugal got in the Treaty of Tordesillas and the St Louis Hawks' decision to send Bill Russell to the Celtics.
• 11:59
  Daniel Moore: This decision says a lot about Esau, by the way.
• 12:02
  Daniel Moore: But the incident also says a lot about Esau, by the way.
• 12:06
  Daniel Moore: But the incident also says a lot about Jacob.
• 12:07
  Daniel Moore: Deceiver was his name, me first was his mantra.
• 12:11
  Daniel Moore: Esau never forgot about Jacob's taking advantage of him in a moment of weakness.
• 12:16
  Daniel Moore: Esau's resentment towards Jacob stemmed from the moment when Jacob took advantage of him in a vulnerable moment, demonstrating Jacob's manipulative nature.
• 12:26
  Daniel Moore: Despite this betrayal, jacob remained fixated on obtaining blessings and advantages for himself at any cost.
• 12:35
  Daniel Moore: Jacob's behavior exemplifies the destructive nature of a hill-grasping mentality, a mindset driven by self-centeredness and the desire to be the best at all costs.
• 12:46
  Daniel Moore: This insatiable thirst for validation and success often leads to a never-ending cycle of seeking more and more, as nothing ever seems to be enough to fill the void of a distorted self-worth.
• 13:00
  Daniel Moore: The damage caused by this me-first mentality is astounding, particularly in relationships.
• 13:08
  Daniel Moore: Jacob's relentless quest for personal gain left a trail of broken and wounded relationships in his wake.
• 13:15
  Daniel Moore: His actions not only hurt Esau, but also created discord within his own family, demonstrating the far-reaching consequences of prioritizing self-interest above all else.
• 13:28
  Daniel Moore: You know, I'm sure we have all met men who try to build empires to hide their insecurity.
• 13:32
  Daniel Moore: They always have to dominate and control.
• 13:35
  Daniel Moore: Everything is a competition, a challenge or a threat.
• 13:39
  Daniel Moore: They can't love or nurture their family the way they should because they are always spending all their energy on the right to rule.
• 13:47
  Daniel Moore: You know there are parents out there that undermine their kids' futures because they can't get past the shortfalls they had in their own lives as kids and the insecurities they have brought into their adult life.
• 13:59
  Daniel Moore: Do you see how damaging this can be in relationships?
• 14:04
  Daniel Moore: The belief that happiness is derived from having more than others is a common misconception that often leads to destructive behavior.
• 14:11
  Daniel Moore: In our pursuit of success, in our relentless quest to be at the top of the mountain, we may inadvertently trample on the relationships that are most important to us.
• 14:21
  Daniel Moore: The drive for advancement and superiority can blind us to the value of those around us, causing irreparable damage to the connections that we hold close.
• 14:31
  Daniel Moore: Irreparable damage to the connections that we hold close.
• 14:37
  Daniel Moore: This behavior not only harms those we care about, but also leaves us feeling isolated and alone.
• 14:40
  Daniel Moore: The very relationships that we neglect in the name of progress are often the ones that provide us with genuine fulfillment and support.
• 14:48
  Daniel Moore: Yet in our relentless pursuit of success and recognition, we may find ourselves feeling empty and disconnected from those who truly matter in our lives.
• 14:57
  Daniel Moore: And you know, that's not living.
• 15:00
  Daniel Moore: In my opinion, that's just surviving, but at a terrible cost.
• 15:04
  Daniel Moore: In our desperate efforts to get ahead, we can lose sight of our own worth and significance.
• 15:10
  Daniel Moore: We forget that our value does not lie in material possessions or achievements, but in the essence of who we are as individuals.
• 15:18
  Daniel Moore: Each of us possesses inherent worth and should be treasured for our unique qualities and contributions to the world.
• 15:26
  Daniel Moore: We are important because God created us, because he loves us, because God chose us.
• 15:35
  Daniel Moore: After Jacob pretended to be Esau and stole the blessing, he had to leave and ended up living with his uncle Laban for 21 years.
• 15:42
  Daniel Moore: His uncle Laban was even more of a con than Jacob was.
• 15:47
  Daniel Moore: He was the king of cons.
• 15:49
  Daniel Moore: As an example, laban, jacob's uncle, deceived Jacob by manipulating him into working for him for many years in exchange for marrying his daughters Rachel and Leah.
• 15:59
  Daniel Moore: Jacob fell in love with Rachel and agreed to work for Laban for seven years to marry her.
• 16:05
  Daniel Moore: However, laban tricked Jacob by marrying him to Leah instead of Rachel.
• 16:11
  Daniel Moore: Apparently, jacob was too drunk that night to even notice.
• 16:15
  Daniel Moore: He woke up the next morning and was furious.
• 16:18
  Daniel Moore: For obvious reasons.
• 16:19
  Daniel Moore: Jacob was then required to work an additional seven years to marry Rachel.
• 16:25
  Daniel Moore: You know Jacob had met his match.
• 16:29
  Daniel Moore: Laban's deceitful actions not only exploited Jacob's love for Rachel, but also showcased his manipulative nature and willingness to use others for his own benefit.
• 16:40
  Daniel Moore: Despite Jacob's love and dedication, laban's deception and dishonesty led to a complicated and tumultuous relationship between the two men.
• 16:49
  Daniel Moore: After 21 years of this, jacob found himself fleeing in fear once again.
• 16:56
  Daniel Moore: Have you ever noticed how complicated it gets when everyone is manipulating everyone else, when everyone looks at each other as a springboard to use other people to get whatever they want?
• 17:08
  Daniel Moore: It's complicated, it's confusing and it's exhausting.
• 17:15
  Daniel Moore: In Matthew, chapter 19, verse 30, jesus says but many who are first will be last and the last first.
• 17:23
  Daniel Moore: This statement by Jesus sheds a powerful light on how things work in the kingdom of God.
• 17:29
  Daniel Moore: Jesus is emphasizing that in the kingdom of God, the values and principles are often contrary to the world's standards.
• 17:36
  Daniel Moore: In the context of this verse, jesus is addressing the disciples' concerns about who will be the greatest in the kingdom.
• 17:43
  Daniel Moore: He teaches them that humility, selflessness and service are essential qualities for those who seek greatness in the kingdom of God.
• 17:51
  Daniel Moore: Jesus emphasizes that those who exalt themselves and seek to be greatness in the kingdom of God.
• 17:54
  Daniel Moore: Jesus emphasizes that those who exalt themselves and seek to be first in the eyes of men may find themselves last in the kingdom of God.
• 18:01
  Daniel Moore: Conversely, those who humble themselves and prioritize serving others may be exalted and considered first in the eyes of God.
• 18:12
  Daniel Moore: We read this and we say now come on, jesus.
• 18:15
  Daniel Moore: That's not how the world works.
• 18:17
  Daniel Moore: Haven't you seen Talladega Nights?
• 18:19
  Daniel Moore: Didn't you hear what Ricky Bobby's dad said to him as he was peeling out?
• 18:23
  Daniel Moore: If you ain't first, you're last.
• 18:27
  Daniel Moore: Well, you know, and Jesus might respond to that decent movie, but wrong philosophy.
• 18:36
  Daniel Moore: This verse reminds us of the upside-down nature of the kingdom of God, where the values and priorities of the world are reversed.
• 18:44
  Daniel Moore: It serves as a reminder that true greatness is not measured by worldly success, power or status, but by one's heart's attitude and willingness to serve others.
• 18:55
  Daniel Moore: Jesus' teaching challenges us to rethink our perspectives on greatness and encourages us to prioritize humility, service and compassion in our lives.
• 19:05
  Daniel Moore: If everything is about you and your ego is so big that it takes all your time to protect it and polish it, and you need everyone around you to prop up your self-esteem, you are headed for misery.
• 19:20
  Daniel Moore: Heel-grabbing mentality characterized by self-centeredness and a constant focus on personal gain is indeed a detrimental mindset that can lead to misery and isolation.
• 19:30
  Daniel Moore: When individuals are consumed by their own desires and prioritize their own interests above everything else, they become trapped in a cycle of selfishness that prevents them from forming genuine connections with others.
• 19:43
  Daniel Moore: The relentless pursuit of personal advancement and success without consideration for the respect of others creates a sense of emptiness and disconnection.
• 19:53
  Daniel Moore: It can be isolating to constantly prioritize one's own convenience and needs, as it limits the ability to empathize with and support those around us.
• 20:03
  Daniel Moore: Relationships suffer when one is unable to see beyond their own self-interest, leading to a lack of genuine connection and understanding.
• 20:12
  Daniel Moore: Living in a self-centered illusion where the primary concern is quote-unquote, what's best for me can ultimately result in a sense of loneliness and unfulfillment.
• 20:22
  Daniel Moore: True happiness and fulfillment often come from cultivating meaningful relationships, practicing empathy and serving others.
• 20:32
  Daniel Moore: In Luke 9.25, jesus says what good is it for someone to gain the whole world and yet lose or forfeit their very own soul?
• 20:40
  Daniel Moore: This verse confirms the futility and ultimate emptiness of pursuing a me-first approach in life.
• 20:47
  Daniel Moore: Jesus is emphasizing that the relentless pursuit of wealth, power and personal gain at the expense of one's values and true self ultimately leads to loss and dissatisfaction.
• 21:00
  Daniel Moore: More than that, it really doesn't even work.
• 21:04
  Daniel Moore: The me-first mentality, driven by a desire for worldly success and recognition, may provide temporary satisfaction for material possessions.
• 21:14
  Daniel Moore: However, jesus warns that gaining the whole world in this manner comes at a cost the loss of one's true self identity and inner peace.
• 21:24
  Daniel Moore: The pursuit of self-centered ambition can lead to a sense of emptiness and a disconnect from one's values, relationships and spiritual well-being.
• 21:34
  Daniel Moore: We're going to take a break here for a moment.
• 21:37
  Daniel Moore: When we come back, we're going to continue this week's episode of Feeling Unqualified and we'll be back right after this.
• 21:48
  chataboutjesus.com: Welcome to the planet, son.
• 21:50
  chataboutjesus.com: Have you noticed how your priorities change as you grow older?
• 21:55
  chataboutjesus.com: They are simple and silly as children.
• 21:58
  chataboutjesus.com: Most of us don't even want to admit what they were in college.
• 22:01
  chataboutjesus.com: As a young adult.
• 22:03
  chataboutjesus.com: They start becoming more serious and then your priorities completely change when you have a family.
• 22:09
  chataboutjesus.com: As we reach the last quarter of life, we start thinking more about our mortality and what waits for us.
• 22:16
  chataboutjesus.com: The problem with that is none of us are guaranteed any amount of time.
• 22:20
  chataboutjesus.com: Don't wait until you think you need to get serious about God.
• 22:24
  chataboutjesus.com: He sent his son, jesus Christ, to offer you forgiveness and hope for eternity.
• 22:30
  chataboutjesus.com: Don't ignore that gift and wait any longer to invite Jesus Christ into your life.
• 22:35
  chataboutjesus.com: Call 888-NEED-HIM to learn how to have a personal relationship with Jesus and take care of the biggest priority in life.
• 22:43
  chataboutjesus.com: That number is 888-NEED-HIM.
• 22:47
  chataboutjesus.com: 888-need-him.
• 23:12
  Daniel Moore: Welcome back to this week's episode of Connecting the Gap.
• 23:15
  Daniel Moore: I'm Daniel Moore, your host.
• 23:16
  Daniel Moore: Thank you for joining us this week.
• 23:17
  Daniel Moore: Hope you're enjoying this episode.
• 23:19
  Daniel Moore: We're in episode 10 of our 12-part series on Unqualified.
• 23:24
  Daniel Moore: This week's episode, the Player Gets Played.
• 23:27
  Daniel Moore: You know Axl Rose of Guns N' Roses.
• 23:33
  Daniel Moore: He may not be a saint, but he was definitely right about this.
• 23:37
  Daniel Moore: He may not be a saint, but he was definitely right about this.
• 23:40
  Daniel Moore: Just because you're winning don't mean you're the lucky ones.
• 23:45
  Daniel Moore: You know, I read a story of a pastor that had an experience that helped redefine the way that he saw true success.
• 23:48
  Daniel Moore: He was invited to be part of a ministry event featuring several well-known pastors.
• 23:53
  Daniel Moore: The guys were some of the most famous in churches today.
• 23:57
  Daniel Moore: Known pastors the guys were some of the most famous in churches today.
• 24:01
  Daniel Moore: At a dinner before the event, he found himself wondering why he was included, because he felt a little outclassed.
• 24:05
  Daniel Moore: He was the youngest one in the room by more than a decade.
• 24:09
  Daniel Moore: The conversation was lively and everyone seemed to be enjoying it.
• 24:13
  Daniel Moore: Then, suddenly, the discussion took a turn that he wasn't prepared for.
• 24:18
  Daniel Moore: When the host asked how would you describe your overall feelings about ministry at this point, the mood of the room grew a little gray as each preacher weighed in.
• 24:31
  Daniel Moore: He was shocked and a little saddened that the majority responded with some version of this conclusion and a little saddened that the majority responded with some version of this conclusion.
• 24:42
  Daniel Moore: Being in ministry is like being in a prison.
• 24:47
  Daniel Moore: It wasn't until a few days after the event that he realized the impact that the exchange had on him.
• 24:49
  Daniel Moore: You know, these are good men at the top of their field.
• 24:53
  Daniel Moore: They help people, they have purpose.
• 24:56
  Daniel Moore: They are making a tremendous difference.
• 24:59
  Daniel Moore: It's not that they are hypocrites.
• 25:01
  Daniel Moore: It just goes to show that all the success in the world, even when you're doing God's work, doesn't guarantee a satisfied soul.
• 25:10
  Daniel Moore: These men, whose spiritual maturity envy many, were silently miserable.
• 25:16
  Daniel Moore: His point wasn't that they are all manipulators and now God is punishing them for building their ministries on the wrong foundation.
• 25:24
  Daniel Moore: Nor was he saying that doing what God calls you to do will always feel like fun.
• 25:30
  Daniel Moore: That would be a pretty hard case to make in light of the life of Apostle Paul or Jesus himself.
• 25:37
  Daniel Moore: He only shared the story because that exchange brought him to an important determination.
• 25:41
  Daniel Moore: He decided if that's what it takes to build a big ministry, he didn't want it.
• 25:46
  Daniel Moore: He refused to give his life to helping others, live in freedom and secretly feel as if he was locked in solitary confinement.
• 25:54
  Daniel Moore: Jesus' words resonated in his heart and mind that night.
• 25:59
  Daniel Moore: What good is it If you get what you want but then don't know what you got?
• 26:04
  Daniel Moore: Then what is the point?
• 26:06
  Daniel Moore: There has to be a better way.
• 26:09
  Daniel Moore: Yet many of us never stop to consider our course.
• 26:13
  Daniel Moore: So we lose ourselves, the real us, the authentic us, the valuable us, because we are so desperate to claw our way to the top.
• 26:23
  Daniel Moore: In the verse from Luke 9 25, jesus poses a powerful question what good is it for someone to gain the whole world and yet forfeit their soul?
• 26:32
  Daniel Moore: This question challenges us to reflect on the true value and significance of the things we pursue in life, whether it be wealth, popularity, social media followers or any other forms of external validation.
• 26:46
  Daniel Moore: Jesus' question prompts us to consider the cost of sacrificing our true identity, our values and integrity in the pursuit of worldly success or recognition.
• 26:57
  Daniel Moore: Our values and integrity in the pursuit of worldly success or recognition.
• 27:01
  Daniel Moore: While these external achievements may bring temporary satisfaction or status, they pale in comparison to the richness of a life lived authentically, in alignment with our deepest beliefs and values.
• 27:11
  Daniel Moore: The verse reminds us that God did not design life to revolve around the relentless pursuit of material or superficial gains.
• 27:29
  Daniel Moore: This verse also emphasizes that we are not meant to carry the weight of our destinies on our own shoulders.
• 27:34
  Daniel Moore: By trusting in God and surrendering to His guidance and plan for our lives, we can find true fulfillment and purpose.
• 27:42
  Daniel Moore: God is infinitely wiser and more capable than we are, and when we align ourselves with His will, we can experience a sense of peace, meaning and fulfillment that surpasses any worldly achievements.
• 27:56
  Daniel Moore: That might be why some of us feel so burned out and stressed out all the time.
• 28:01
  Daniel Moore: Maybe we've been using people we are supposed to love.
• 28:05
  Daniel Moore: Maybe we've been trying to control our world, when we should relax a little and let God be God.
• 28:11
  Daniel Moore: Maybe our prison cells are locked from the inside.
• 28:16
  Daniel Moore: Maybe our prison cells are locked from the inside.
• 28:18
  Daniel Moore: You know, when Jacob first arrived at Laban's house, he had nothing.
• 28:21
  Daniel Moore: When he left, he was a very rich and wealthy man.
• 28:25
  Daniel Moore: He had flocks, servants, lots of family and many provisions.
• 28:30
  Daniel Moore: That didn't happen because he was so smart and clever.
• 28:34
  Daniel Moore: It happened because God decided to bless him.
• 28:38
  Daniel Moore: God's ultimate plan was to bless Jacob and fulfill the promises made to his ancestors, abraham and Isaac.
• 28:44
  Daniel Moore: Despite all the scheming and conniving between Jacob and Laban, it was ultimately God's blessing that allowed Jacob to prosper and become wealthy.
• 28:53
  Daniel Moore: This needs to be a reminder for us that our own efforts and strategies can only take us so far.
• 29:00
  Daniel Moore: Ultimately, it is God who has the final say and who can outmaneuver any human plans.
• 29:07
  Daniel Moore: It is important to trust in God's plan and timing, knowing that he ultimately has the best interest of his children in mind.
• 29:15
  Daniel Moore: Like Jacob, we have to trust in God's provision and blessings, knowing that he is ultimately in control and has the power to bring about good even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
• 29:26
  Daniel Moore: We must lean on his wisdom and guidance, knowing that his plans are far greater than our own.
• 29:34
  Daniel Moore: The me-first mentality is a mindset that prioritizes personal gain and success above all else, often at the expense of others.
• 29:42
  Daniel Moore: It promotes the idea that, in order to get ahead in life, one must be cunning, cutthroat and willing to do whatever it takes to come out on top.
• 29:50
  Daniel Moore: This mentality can lead individuals to engage in deceptive or manipulative behavior in their pursuit of happiness.
• 29:58
  Daniel Moore: Jacob initially embraced this me-first mentality, using deceit and manipulation to gain an advantage over others, including his own brother Esau, and his uncle Laban.
• 30:18
  Daniel Moore: However, he eventually learned that this approach was not sustainable in the long run.
• 30:24
  Daniel Moore: He experienced firsthand the consequences of his actions and realized that relying solely on his own cunning and cleverness would ultimately lead to his downfall.
• 30:35
  Daniel Moore: Similarly, those who embrace the me-first mentality may find temporary success or satisfaction, but they risk damaging relationships, reputation and, ultimately, their own well-being.
• 30:47
  Daniel Moore: They may become so entrenched in their ways that they struggle to relinquish control and trust in something greater than themselves.
• 30:56
  Daniel Moore: Some people have been pretending, manipulating and defending for so long that they can't even come to the point where they imagine letting go and letting God have control.
• 31:06
  Daniel Moore: They have continually built their life around a philosophy that the spoils go to the strongest, the smartest, the most manipulative and the most likely to succeed.
• 31:17
  Daniel Moore: And you know, maybe you feel that way.
• 31:20
  Daniel Moore: I know I have at different times in my life.
• 31:27
  Daniel Moore: Maybe you wish that for once, you could let down your guard and just enjoy the day, without having to fight for everything you have and the stress of feeling like you have to be first place.
• 31:34
  Daniel Moore: Maybe you worry that if you let your guard down, you won't be able to be in control and you won't be in the position to watch out for yourself, and if you don't, then who will?
• 31:46
  Daniel Moore: Well, let's take a look at some of your third words.
• 31:48
  Daniel Moore: Do they look something like this I am strong, I am independent, I am alone, I am self-made, I am independent, I am alone, I am self-made.
• 31:59
  Daniel Moore: I mean, I don't mean to be critical, but these statements are simply not accurate.
• 32:03
  Daniel Moore: While they may seem true and I acknowledge the efforts and contributions to your success are you truly the sole reason for your achievements or is it by the grace of God?
• 32:15
  Daniel Moore: God's blessings are a reflection of His character, not our own.
• 32:19
  Daniel Moore: This is the core message of the I Am revelation to Moses.
• 32:29
  Daniel Moore: Adopting a manipulative mindset in life stems from not grasping the true source of our blessings.
• 32:32
  Daniel Moore: Our blessings come from God and are grounded in our authentic selves.
• 32:36
  Daniel Moore: Understanding this truth allows us to let down our guard and be vulnerable.
• 32:41
  Daniel Moore: Remember the scripture that we looked at in 2 Corinthians a few episodes ago when I am weak, then I am strong.
• 32:49
  Daniel Moore: You know, in the context of this, paul is pleading with God regarding a specific issue or affliction that he is facing.
• 32:56
  Daniel Moore: He is asking God for relief or deliverance from this situation, but God's response is not to grant his request.
• 33:05
  Daniel Moore: Instead, god tells Paul my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.
• 33:11
  Daniel Moore: That's 2 Corinthians 12 9.
• 33:15
  Daniel Moore: Paul had been given a thorn in the flesh, a metaphorical representation of a persistent and troubling affliction which he pleaded with God to remove.
• 33:24
  Daniel Moore: This thorn was causing Paul distress and weakness and he desired for it to be taken away.
• 33:30
  Daniel Moore: However, god's response to Paul's pleading was to affirm that his grace is enough for Paul even in his weakness.
• 33:39
  Daniel Moore: Through this response, god was teaching Paul an important lesson about reliance on him.
• 33:45
  Daniel Moore: He was showing Paul that in his weakness God's strength is made perfect.
• 33:50
  Daniel Moore: By enduring this trial and relying on God's grace and strength, paul would ultimately experience the power of God working through him.
• 33:59
  Daniel Moore: God's refusal to remove the thorn was not a rejection of Paul or a lack of care for his request.
• 34:06
  Daniel Moore: Instead, it was a means of teaching Paul a deeper spiritual truth about the sufficiency of God's grace and the transformative power of His strength.
• 34:16
  Daniel Moore: Paul's weakness became an opportunity for God to demonstrate His power and for Paul to experience the reality of God's grace in his life.
• 34:27
  Daniel Moore: You know, none of us controls our fate.
• 34:28
  Daniel Moore: We influence it greatly, but we don't control it.
• 34:32
  Daniel Moore: We don't control when and where we are born.
• 34:35
  Daniel Moore: We don't control the economy.
• 34:37
  Daniel Moore: We don't control when and where we are born.
• 34:40
  Daniel Moore: We don't control the economy.
• 34:41
  Daniel Moore: We don't control the weather.
• 34:42
  Daniel Moore: We don't even control the day we die.
• 34:45
  Daniel Moore: God does all those things and more.
• 34:48
  Daniel Moore: Psalm 121, 1-8, a well-known psalm of ascent, speaks of God's protection and care over His people.
• 34:54
  Daniel Moore: In these verses, the psalmist acknowledges that our help and security come from the Lord alone, emphasizing that God is the ultimate source of guidance and protection in our lives.
• 35:04
  Daniel Moore: Verse 2 says my help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
• 35:10
  Daniel Moore: This declaration shows the psalmist's trust in God as the ultimate provider and sustainer of our life.
• 35:17
  Daniel Moore: The psalmist's trust in God as the ultimate provider and sustainer of our life.
• 35:21
  Daniel Moore: It reflects the acknowledgement that our fate and our lives are ultimately in God's hands, not in our own control.
• 35:25
  Daniel Moore: Throughout the psalm, the psalmist speaks of God as protector of his people, watching over them day and night.
• 35:43
  Daniel Moore: Verses 3-4 states this imagery conveys the message that God's sovereignty is constant and unwavering, with His watchful eye guarding us at all times.
• 35:54
  Daniel Moore: The psalm goes on to assure us of God's unfailing presence and protection, stating that he will keep us from harm and watch over our lives both now and forevermore.
• 36:03
  Daniel Moore: This reassurance emphasizes the idea that our fate and destiny are ultimately in God's hands.
• 36:10
  Daniel Moore: He has infinite control over our lives.
• 36:15
  Daniel Moore: Our sense of identity and value must be rooted in God in order for us to have true stability and perspective.
• 36:22
  Daniel Moore: Without acknowledging God's role in our lives, we may find ourselves fluctuating between extremes of pride and despair.
• 36:29
  Daniel Moore: We may go from feeling like superheroes to experiencing moments of defeat and hopelessness, as if we are constantly on an emotional rollercoaster.
• 36:39
  Daniel Moore: It is important to recognize that we are not so powerful that success is guaranteed, nor are we so flawed that success is out of reach.
• 36:48
  Daniel Moore: Our successes and achievements are ultimately a result of God's blessings and guidance.
• 36:54
  Daniel Moore: We cannot take all the credit for our accomplishments, as we are not wise or strong enough to achieve everything on our own.
• 37:02
  Daniel Moore: Similarly, our weaknesses and failures are not obstacles that are insurmountable for God.
• 37:09
  Daniel Moore: He has the ability to work through our shortcomings and bring hope, even in times of disappointment.
• 37:15
  Daniel Moore: When we allow God's presence and power to overshadow our own limitations, we can find reassurance and strength in the midst of challenges.
• 37:24
  Daniel Moore: God's sovereignty and grace surpass our own abilities and shortcomings.
• 37:29
  Daniel Moore: His presence in our lives trumps all, providing us with hope in moments of weaknesses and acknowledging His influence in our successes, with hope in moments of weaknesses.
• 37:38
  Daniel Moore: And acknowledging His influence in our successes by acknowledging God's role in our identity and value, we can find a sense of peace, purpose and humility in our journey through this life.
• 37:48
  Daniel Moore: Allowing God to shape our identities and our endeavors is the heart of being qualified, of measuring up, of being valuable, approved and significant.
• 38:05
  Daniel Moore: In the showdown between Jacob and the angel, we see a pivotable moment in Jacob's story where he confronts his own identity, both the good and the bad.
• 38:09
  Daniel Moore: Jacob wrestles with the angel throughout the night, refusing to let go until he receives a blessing.
• 38:16
  Daniel Moore: This physical struggle symbolizes Jacob's internal struggle with his own past actions, deceitful nature and desire for God's favor.
• 38:25
  Daniel Moore: Jacob had spent much of his life trying to manipulate situations and people to his advantage, using deceit and cunning to get ahead.
• 38:34
  Daniel Moore: However, in this moment of wrestling with the angel, jacob is forced to confront his true self, acknowledging his flaws, weaknesses and sinful nature.
• 38:45
  Daniel Moore: He comes to a point of surrender and vulnerability, realizing that he cannot rely on his own strength or cleverness to receive God's blessing.
• 38:54
  Daniel Moore: The angel ultimately blesses Jacob, but only after Jacob owns up to his true identity, acknowledging his imperfections and shortcomings.
• 39:06
  Daniel Moore: This pivotal moment in Jacob's life demonstrates that we do not have to be perfect or deserving in order for God to bless us.
• 39:13
  Daniel Moore: God's blessings are not earned through our own efforts or righteousness.
• 39:17
  Daniel Moore: Bless us.
• 39:18
  Daniel Moore: God's blessings are not earned through our own efforts or righteousness.
• 39:20
  Daniel Moore: Rather, they are given out of God's unconditional love and grace.
• 39:26
  Daniel Moore: Jacob's story reminds us that God sees us for who we truly are, with all of our faults and failings, and yet still chooses to bless and care for us.
• 39:31
  Daniel Moore: We do not need to strive for perfection or manipulate circumstances to earn God's favor.
• 39:38
  Daniel Moore: Instead, we are called to be honest and authentic before God, recognizing our need for His grace and mercy.
• 39:45
  Daniel Moore: God blesses us not because of our own merit, but because of His unfailing love for us.
• 39:53
  Daniel Moore: What is fascinating here about Jacob's encounter with the angel is how, all of his life, jacob had been the hill grabber.
• 39:59
  Daniel Moore: Jacob had always been the one who chased others and grasped at them, but now God was grabbing hold of Jacob.
• 40:08
  Daniel Moore: The whole key to this story really is that you can spend your whole life grasping, clawing and grabbing, but what you really need is for God to grab hold of you, for grace to grab hold of you.
• 40:23
  Daniel Moore: Jacob had spent his life grasping at heels, using his tenacity for scheming and deceit, but now it was God who held onto him, and Jacob had finally learned to hold onto God, the only one who could truly bless him.
• 40:38
  Daniel Moore: In hindsight, jacob realized he should have surrendered to God's guidance much earlier.
• 40:44
  Daniel Moore: It was ironic how the same trait that had led him astray could now be channeled in the right direction, thanks to God's intervention.
• 40:54
  Daniel Moore: You know, god has a way of using our perceived weaknesses for our benefit.
• 40:57
  Daniel Moore: He can take our flaws and redeem them for His purpose.
• 41:01
  Daniel Moore: Perhaps it is time to release certain burdens and instead cling to God.
• 41:06
  Daniel Moore: Let go of the need for others' approval, release the weights of your past, discard any facades you may be upholding and abandon deceitful tactics.
• 41:18
  Daniel Moore: It is in holding on to God that true blessings and transformations can be found.
• 41:24
  Daniel Moore: And while you're at it, let go of one more thing.
• 41:29
  Daniel Moore: It's the one of the most insidious traps of all, as you are about to see.
• 41:35
  Daniel Moore: In the next episode it's called comparison.
• 41:39
  Daniel Moore: Well, that's going to do it for this week's episode of Connecting the Gap with part 10 of our 12-part series on Unqualified.
• 41:48
  Daniel Moore: I'm Daniel Moore.
• 41:49
  Daniel Moore: Thank you so much for listening this week.
• 41:51
  Daniel Moore: You know the show really wouldn't be possible without you.
• 41:53
  Daniel Moore: And if you're a fan of the show, once again, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts Also, please subscribe and share, and do that on your favorite platform.
• 42:02
  Daniel Moore: The links to all of our platforms are in the show notes below.
• 42:05
  Daniel Moore: Well, that's all for this week, and as we go, we want to remind you that God's Word never fails us.
• 42:12
  Daniel Moore: God's Word has stood the test of time and through Jesus' death on the cross, he has connected the gap.
• 42:19
  Aria: You've been listening to Connecting the Gap Podcast.
• 42:21
  Aria: In this world, there are many disconnects that cause chaos in our lives.
• 42:25
  Aria: This podcast is birthed from the desire to share hope and restoration of the power of the gospel by being transparent and open in our biblical walk with God.
• 42:33
  Aria: Each week, we take a few moments as we navigate God's Word and peer into other people's testimonies and encourage each other to connect the gap.
• 42:40
  Aria: We upload a new audio podcast every Thursday and a video version of it on YouTube and Rumble.
• 42:45
  Aria: We are also on the Christian podcasting app Edify.
• 42:48
  Aria: You can subscribe to our podcast on many of the available podcasting platforms, including Apple Podcast, spotify, amazon Music, iheart Radio, tunein Radio and more.
• 42:58
  Aria: We are also available on your Alexa-enabled devices.
• 43:01
  Aria: If you would like to contact our ministry for any reason, visit our contact page and send us a message.
• 43:06
  Aria: We hope you are blessed by this ministry.
• 43:08
  Aria: This is a production of Connecting the Gap Ministries.