In this episode of Arise + Abide, we reflect on Psalm 124 and the powerful question it asks twice: What if the Lord had not been on our side? Through this poetic expression of Israel’s deliverance, we explore how remembering God’s past faithfulness strengthens our present confidence and gratitude. Curtis and Sally unpack the psalm’s vivid imagery of being rescued from overwhelming waters and broken traps, drawing connections to our own experiences of spiritual deliverance through Christ.

As we consider the implications of God's presence in our lives, we confront the “what ifs” that often plague our thoughts. Whether it's anxiety about the future or regret over the past, counterfactual thinking—when surrendered to God—can be a tool that leads us into deeper gratitude and faith. Drawing from passages like Romans 8 and 2 Corinthians 10, this conversation encourages us to take every thought captive and stand firm in the assurance that our help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Join us as we remember God's unfailing love, rejoice in our confident hope, and walk in the freedom and transformation Jesus provides.

In this episode of Arise + Abide, Curtis and Sally reflect on the hope-filled vision of Isaiah 11, where a new branch from David’s line emerges—pointing to the coming of Jesus. They explore how the Spirit of the Lord rests on this righteous ruler, who judges not by appearance but with divine wisdom, justice, and truth. The conversation highlights how Jesus embodies these prophetic promises and how His reign brings deep transformation—personally, spiritually, and globally.

From predator and prey living peacefully to nations reuniting and exiles returning home, Isaiah 11 paints a picture of radical peace and restored relationships. Curtis and Sally discuss the challenge of waiting on the Lord and allowing our nature to be transformed by His Spirit. They also emphasize the promise that God is actively drawing all people to Himself, creating unity and peace through relationship with Him.

As the episode unfolds, listeners are invited to see God's ultimate plan for redemption—a world filled with people who know the Lord, walking in His truth, and living without fear. It’s a powerful reminder that the way back to God’s original design comes through the one who wears righteousness like a belt and truth as His foundation, Jesus.

In this episode of Arise + Abide, Sally and Curtis reflect on Psalm 123—a short but powerful psalm of ascent that calls us to lift our eyes to the Lord, the one enthroned in heaven. As they explore this prayerful cry for mercy in the midst of contempt and opposition, they emphasize the importance of where we fix our focus in life. Like servants waiting attentively for their master’s command, we are called to keep our eyes on God—not just on Sundays, but continually—watching and waiting for His guidance.

Through heartfelt discussion, Sally and Curtis unpack the themes of patience, identity, and steadfast hope. They speak to the challenges of living in a world that often mocks and misunderstands God’s people, and how vital it is to find our worth and direction in Him. Drawing from both Psalm 123 and New Testament scriptures like Matthew 24 and 1 Peter 2, they remind listeners that though life may be full of distractions and spiritual opposition, God's mercy anchors us in truth and gives us strength to endure.

Whether you’re weary from the noise of the world or simply in need of a reminder to lift your gaze heavenward, this episode offers encouragement to stay focused on the Lord, trust His timing, and stand firm in the identity we’ve been given through Jesus.

In this episode of Arise + Abide, Sally and Curtis reflect on Isaiah 10, where God's justice confronts corruption, pride, and oppression—first within Israel and then through the tool of Assyria. Though Assyria is used as an instrument of judgment, its own arrogance will not go unchecked. Amid the warnings, a message of hope emerges: a faithful remnant will return and trust in the Lord alone. Through personal reflection and Scripture, the hosts explore how we are called to be instruments of God’s justice and glory, living with humility, gratitude, and unwavering trust in His sovereign plan.

In this episode, Curtis and Sally reflect on Psalm 122, a song of ascents that invites worshipers to joyfully enter the house of the Lord. They explore the spiritual significance of pilgrimage, gathering with God's people, and praying for peace. Together, they highlight how this Psalm points forward to Jesus—the true gate, the Prince of Peace, and the fulfillment of God's promises to David. As they discuss the beauty of unity in the body of Christ, they encourage listeners to pursue fellowship, live in gratitude, and seek God's peace for their communities and the world.

In this episode of Arise and Abide, Sally and Curtis reflect on Isaiah 9:8–21, a sobering passage that contrasts the hope of the Messiah with the harsh consequences of pride and rebellion. As Israel responds to ruin with arrogance and self-reliance, God allows them to face the fallout of their choices. Sally and Curtis explore how the wildfire of sin spreads when hearts resist repentance, and how God's judgment is ultimately aimed at awakening His people to return to Him. Through honest conversation, they share how true repentance and humility lead us away from destruction and into the abundant life found in following Jesus.

In this episode of Arise + Abide, Curtis and Sally reflect on Psalm 121, a song of ascent that reminds us of God's constant care and protection. They explore the powerful imagery of looking to the mountains—not for false sources of help, but as a prompt to trust in the Creator of heaven and earth. Drawing from personal experiences and biblical connections, including the story of Jonah and the protective shade of God, the hosts invite listeners to rest in the assurance that God watches over our every step—now and forever.

In this episode of Arise + Abide, Curtis and Sally reflect on the powerful hope found in Isaiah 9:1–7. After the bleak warnings of chapter 8, Isaiah 9 opens with a promise: light will shine in the darkness. The hosts explore how this prophecy points to the coming Messiah—Jesus—who brings joy, breaks the yoke of oppression, and reigns with justice and peace. They highlight the significance of God's victory through humility and grace, reminding us that the passionate commitment of the Lord is the driving force behind redemption. This is a message of hope, light, and God's enduring love.