Cathy Bryant's Blog: CatBryant.com ~ Journey Blog, page 11

3 Free Christian Fiction Books As My Christmas Gift To You

Would anyone object to three free Christian fiction books?

I didn’t think so.

3 Reasons I Absolutely LOVE Giveaways (& the Winner Is…)

I absolutely love giveaways!

Over the past couple of weeks in the 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways, so many of you have expressed your gratitude for the giveaways and prizes. You are all more than welcome! In truth, I truly believe I had more fun than any of you!

Check out the #winner #KindleFire @Cathy_Bryant’s “12 Days of Christmas Giveaways” here:
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Yes, it was hard work. And sometimes my head swam trying to keep all the balls in the air. Whew!

But the final day of our giveaways has arrived, and we survived and thrived and had a blast!

Click the image to enter the giveaway for three winners of autographed print copies of PIECES ON EARTH on Goodreads.
3 Reasons I Absolutely Love Giveaways

I get to vicariously experience the joy and excitement of others. (And I’ve been so blessed by those of you who were quick to express congratulations to the winners. Thank you!) Excitement is contagious, and it just makes my heart feel good!
I get to make LOTS of new friends! I hope you feel the same as we come to the conclusion of our giveaways.
I experience the joy of giving. Jesus expressed it this way. “It is more blessed to give than receive.” (Acts 20:35) I’ve felt that over and over again during these giveaways! I hope you’ve been blessed, but I KNOW I’ve been blessed.

Click the “Get It Today” button to purchase a Kindle copy of PIECES ON EARTH.
Giveaways Wrap-Up

Before I announce our Grand Prize winner, let me take just a second to wrap-up a few loose ends.

If you’d like to see a list of all the winners, you’ll find them on our 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways Sweepstakes Rules page. (Try saying that three times fast!)
If you were one of the book/eBook winners and enjoy your book, please take just a minute to share the book with others and to leave your honest reviews in places like Amazon, Goodreads, etc. (This helps both authors AND readers.)
I try my very best to infuse all my books with God’s capital-T truth, both to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ, but also to win new believers to God’s kingdom. Please consider gifting the books to those you think would enjoy them and/or learn from them. I usually have at least one promotional sale on eBooks each and every month. That’s a great time to send a gift for less than $1. Thank you, not only for your financial support, but also for your support of what I consider a writing ministry and mission for our Lord and His kingdom.
I had so much fun in this year’s “12 Days of Christmas Giveaways” that I hope to do it again next Christmas. Thank you all for joining the fun. I wish you and yours a Merry Christmas and blessed New Year!

Click the picture to buy PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE for just $0.99 on Amazon.
And the Winner of the Kindle Fire HD 6 is…
Sandra L!

Congrats, Sandra! So excited for you!!! I’ll be contacting you by email to get your mailing address!

The post 3 Reasons I Absolutely LOVE Giveaways (& the Winner Is…) appeared first on Cathy Bryant.

This Love Story: How to Actually Survive Broken Promises

Is there anything more disappointing than broken promises, especially when you’ve put your life and heart on the line?

I can only speak for myself, but I would be hard-pressed to find anything more heart-breaking than having your hopes dashed and your life forever altered by broken promises.

Broken Promises – Personal Experiences

As I consider broken promises, I’m reminded of a time in my life when I gave up so much–being close to family, living debt-free, freedom–for promises made. Promises that were quickly broken once it was too late to return to what I had.

I’m sure each of you can recall similar stories from your own experiences.

Though living through those times is tough, I’m living proof that it is possible to survive broken promises.

How to Survive Broken Promises

How?

Only one way. By trusting in the One whose promises never fail.

How to overcome broken promises? Trust in the One whose promises never fail.
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Promises like:

“I am with you wherever you go.”
“Nothing can snatch you from My hand.”
“Nothing can separate you from My love.”
And so very many more that a hundred blog posts couldn’t contain them all.

Human beings will always fail us, so to put our trust in the fallible is foolish.

But God cannot lie. He can’t go against His promises. He is absolutely trustworthy.

And to make this love story between God and man even better, every promise God has made is fulfilled through His Son Jesus.

Love Story About Broken Promises

The idea of surviving broken promises through relying on the promises of God is the spiritual theme of my favorite love story in all the books I’ve written, Pilgrimage of Promise.

Of all the books that I’ve written, this one is special in so many ways. First off, it’s special because it’s Mama Beth’s story. As soon as the first Miller’s Creek novel (Texas Roads) released, I had many readers who wanted to know if I would consider writing a book about Mama Beth. (It took two more books before I would get there, but the story was on my heart for a very long time.)

Secondly, I had three books to get to know Mama Beth really well, so by the time book four rolled around in the form of Pilgrimage of Promise, it was the easiest story for me to write–almost as if I was writing the life and times of a very dear friend.

The third, and most personal, reason the book is special to me is because at the time I wrote it, I had been through a time when God kept His promises to me in a very real and personal way. When you go through that sort of time in your life, you realize that you can make it through anything with God.

Pilgrimage of Promise 99-Cent Sale

A timeless love story of broken promises and second chances…

Even as high school sweethearts, Mona Beth Adams believed her Texas cowboy-rancher was the only man for her. But life intervened, stealing away the only man she’d ever love. Then a second chance reunites the couple until a dusty stack of unopened love letters and potentially terminal illness forces them to sift through the painful past. Only as they retrace history will they learn the truth about the broken promise that threatens to come between them. But can their relationship endure the deception and sabotage they unearth, or will the experience compel them to trust more fully in the promises that never fail?

2013 Grace Award Nominee (Reader-Nominated)

“…Karen Kingsbury meets Nicholas Sparks.” ~Amazon reviewer

#99c PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE #amreading #ChristianFiction
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The post This Love Story: How to Actually Survive Broken Promises appeared first on Cathy Bryant.

12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 11 -Your 11th Prize to Win

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Welcome to the “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS 11!” Read the official sweepstakes rules at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/

NOTE: All the days’ entries will be combined for tomorrow’s giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. Winner of the Kindle Fire will be chosen via Random.org, announced tomorrow on this blog and my Facebook author page, and contacted via e-mail.

Enter @Cathy_Bryant’s 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS! Grand Prize: #KindleFire HD6
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12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 11

The eighth prize up for grabs is a print copy of PIECES ON EARTH (4.9 stars with 40 reviews), a Christian contemporary Christmas novella which released just last month.

NOTE: Entrance into each day’s giveaway counts as entries in the Grand Prize giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. So the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning!

Here’s the scoop about this prize (retail value: $8):

PIECES ON EARTH

Can she find God’s peace in life’s pieces?

As a young mother and wife of a naval aviator in sunny Pensacola, Florida, Liv Tulley eagerly anticipates the first Christmas in several years with her husband, daughter, and extended family. Then her husband is unexpectedly deployed for an undetermined amount of time, smashing her white Christmas dreams. She’s also shouldering a secret and battling anxiety. Can she find God’s peace in the midst of life’s pieces?

| Print | Kindle |

“This sweet story packs a powerful message into its pages and I highly recommend it to all readers. For quality of writing, entertainment, and spiritual impact, 5 stars.” ~Amazon reviewer

PIECES ON EARTH – Read the First Three Chapters
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 11 – A Print Copy of PIECES ON EARTH

This is a one-day drawing (December 15, 2015) for a print copy of PIECES ON EARTH ($8 value). Drawing is open to the US only. Winner will be notified via email and announced on the Official Sweepstakes page. Entry into this giveaway will also count as an entry into the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD 6.

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More Giveaways and Deals

Here are a few more giveaways and deals you might be interested in:

$200 Amazon Gift Card giveaway (ends December 21, 2015)
Goodreads Giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (December 7-21, 2015)
Various giveaways of PIECES ON EARTH for the book’s virtual book tour
BELIEVE & KNOW (LifeSword Bible study on defending the faith) on sale for 99-cents (December 8-14, 2015).

The post 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 11 -Your 11th Prize to Win appeared first on Cathy Bryant.

Walk Through the WORD Acts 27-28

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Walk Through the WORD Previous Posts

Today we walk through the Word Acts 27-28. Join us as we walk together through the Word of God–to better know Him and make Him known, to gain strength for the journey as we grow in our faith, and to join our hearts in unity as the body of Christ.

Acts 1-3
Acts 4-6
Acts 7-8
Acts 9-10
Acts 11-12
Acts 13-14
Acts 15-16
Acts 17:16-19:41
Acts 20-23
Acts 24-26

When we last left off, Paul was imprisoned, but still able to share the gospel, this time with many in positions of political power. Today we’ll see him on his final quest–the journey to Rome.

Walk Through the WORD Acts 27-28

Read: Acts 27:1-44

Key Points:

{vss. 1-12} Paul is soon sent to Rome by boat under the guard of a centurion named Julius, a member of the Imperial Regiment. We know that Luke is with Paul, because he is the one writing the book. Aristarchus of Thessalonica was also with them. Paul was a trusted prisoner, as revealed by the fact that Julius gave him to the liberty of visiting friends when they landed in Sidon, so that they might provide for his needs. Back on board, they set sail once again, but the winds were against them. The area of the Mediterranean Sea they sailed through was full of many islands as shown by the map below. With fierce winds this made sailing treacherous. Paul and his companions were transferred to an Alexandrian ship, which had slow travelling because of the winds. Though they had the opportunity to winter in a place called Fair Havens, something Paul advised because of upcoming danger, the centurion followed the advice of the pilot and owner of the ship instead. The Fast is mentioned in verse 9. The only fast prescribed by the law was on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:29-34). This fast took place around early October. We find out in chapter 28 that Paul and his companions didn’t arrive in Rome until the following spring.
{vss. 13-26} The winds changed to a favorable direction, so the ship set sail. But before long hurricane-force winds lambasted the ship. Beaten by the strong winds and high waves day after day, the crew began to despair. First they threw cargo overboard, and then the ship’s tackle. The text tells us that they “finally gave up all hope of being saved.” Paul used this opportunity to once more witness for the Lord. He told them that they should have listened to his advice, but to keep up their courage because a visit by an angel had informed him not to be afraid. Paul was to stand trial before Caesar, a mission initiated by God. Because of this, God would graciously save the lives of the crew. Paul had utmost faith that God would do as he had said. The lesson here for us is this: There will be many times in our lives when things look and seem hopeless. At those times, we must keep our courage up, trusting in our God to deliver, based on His plans and purposes for our lives. It would have been easy for Paul to welcome death by shipwreck, knowing full well what awaited him in Rome before Nero. But instead, he confidently kept his faith in God, knowing also that everlasting life awaited beyond physical death.
{vss. 27-44} Can you imagine a storm at sea that lasted for over two weeks? The churning waves surely caused churning stomachs. In the middle of the night, the crew realized they were approaching land. After checking water depths, their thoughts were verified. The water depth was shrinking. If dashed against rocks, the ship would fall apart, so they dropped four anchors and prayed for daylight. Some even made a move to leave via a lifeboat, but Paul told them they wouldn’t be saved unless they stayed with the boat. Paul urged them all to eat, something they hadn’t done for fourteen days. He once more told them they would survive, then blessed food and gave it to them all. They were encouraged. Finally daylight arrived, and they made out a sandy shore. They cut the anchors and ran ashore, where the ship began to come apart. The plan was to kill the prisoners aboard to prevent them from escaping, but the centurion wanted to spare Paul’s life. Instead all were allowed to jump overboard and swim ashore. Everyone lived as Paul had foretold. As believers, our faith in God needs to not only be evident to others, but also steel-strong. Paul’s was, and it enabled him to encourage those around him. I pray that each of us have the kind of faith that can comfort and encourage others in times of crisis.

Read: Acts 28:1-31

Key Points:

{vss. 1-10} Once on shore, they learned that they were on the island of Malta, a Mediterranean island near the tip of the boot that is Italy. The islanders went above and beyond in carrying for this group of almost 300, and built a quick fire because it was raining and cold. In the midst of this process, a viper attached itself to Paul’s hand. But he suffered no ill effects. Here’s why. Paul was on a God-given mission. Nothing–not shipwreck, not poisonous snake–could keep him from what God had planned. We would be wise to remember this truth for our own lives. An island official by the name of Publius welcomed them to his home and provided them with hospitality. Paul even healed the man’s father and many more. When it was once more time to sail, the people provided the ship’s crew and passengers with all the supplies they needed for the journey. Our God is a God who provides. Stay encouraged and strengthened!
{vss. 11-16} The voyage to Rome resumes after three months on the island. It is now around the middle of February. They finally arrived at Puteoli, a Roman port in Italy. Fellow Christians had heard that Paul would be arriving and had traveled many miles to meet him and his travelling companions. Paul was grateful and encouraged by this kind act by fellow believers. We never know how one small action can encourage our brothers and sisters in the Lord. May we be ever mindful of helping others on their journeys. At the end of this passage we learn that Paul is allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him.
{vss. 17-31} Three days later, Paul called a meeting with the Jews of Rome. He explained why he was being held prisoner until his trial before Caesar. He gives his motivation of why he wanted to talk with them, “because of the hope of Israel,” that is the Messiah, that he is in chains. The men quickly reply that they have received no correspondence from Jerusalem, but want to hear what Paul has to say about the sect. “From morning to evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets.” As is usually the case, some believed, but many did not. Paul quotes Isaiah 6:9-10 as a truth against them. They had plugged their ears, covered their eyes, and hardened their hearts. In doing so, they had turned away from God, who would have healed them. For this reason, the message would continue to the Gentiles, and they would listen. Paul stayed in his Roman rent house for two years. Many came to see him and hear him boldly proclaim the truth of God’s gospel that centered around the Lord Jesus Christ. On a side note, it was during this time of imprisonment in Rome that Paul wrote letters to various churches. Those letters have now  become books in our Bible: Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. God was still using Paul in a mighty way, even though he was a prisoner in chains awaiting execution at the hands of Nero. I can only speak for myself, but I needed this message. God can use us wherever we are, as long as we humbly submit ourselves to Him and His purposes and boldly proclaim His great good news in the person of Jesus.

Walk Through the WORD Acts 27-28 Wrap-Up

Prayerfully consider the following questions. Feel free to add to our study by sharing in the comments below.

What insights have you gleaned from this passage about Paul’s final trip on the way to Rome? What does it teach you about God? About your own personal journey?
What should be our response when we face difficulty and despair?
How can we be a source of encouragement for non-believers (or believers whose faith is weak)? How can we strengthen our own faith?
How was Paul a witness to the islanders of Malta?
What do we see God doing through the islanders for the ship’s crew and passengers?
What are some ways in which you can encourage your brothers and sisters in the Lord? Can you think of a time when you were especially encouraged by fellow believers?
What can we learn from the Jews’ response to Paul’s gospel message? Is there any way for us to get through to those who refuse to see, hear, or understand?
What can we learn from Paul’s example while he was under house arrest in Rome?

All Posts in Our Study of Acts:

Acts 1-3
Acts 4-6
Acts 7-8
Acts 9-10
Acts 11-12
Acts 13-14
Acts 15-16
Acts 17-18:17
Acts 18:18-19:41
Acts 20-23
Acts 24-26
Acts 27-28

The post Walk Through the WORD Acts 27-28 appeared first on Cathy Bryant.

12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 10 -Your 10th Prize to Win

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Welcome to the “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS 10!” Read the official sweepstakes rules at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/

Enter @Cathy_Bryant’s 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS! Grand Prize: #KindleFire HD6
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12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 10

The tenth prize up for grabs is a digital copy of MILLER’S CREEK COLLECTION 2 (5 stars with 7 reviews, released October 2015), which contains the last three Miller’s Creek novels. Pilgrimage of Promise, A Bridge Unbroken, and Crossroads, with spiritual themes of God’s unfailing promises, forgiveness, and defending/sharing the faith.

NOTE: Entrance into each day’s giveaway counts as entries in the Grand Prize giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. So the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning!

Here’s the scoop about this prize (retail value: $5, or $10 if you buy them separately):

MILLER’S CREEK COLLECTION 2

Christian Contemporary Romance and Romantic Mystery/Suspense

This second trilogy collection of the beloved faith-based stories Miller’s Creek novels by Christian author Cathy Bryant. The collection features novels 4-6, including Pilgrimage of Promise, A Bridge Unbroken, and Crossroads, stand-alone books which share the messages of God’s unfailing promises, our need to give and receive forgiveness, and being prepared to defend/share our faith.

| Kindle |

“These stories keep me turning the pages to see what happens next as I’m not positive that I know which way it is going. Cathy’s love of God and style story-telling is wonderful.

There’s so much more that I could praise about these books, but I really want to start the next novel to read what happens next. Great author!” ~Amazon reviewer

CROSSROADS – Read 5 Sample Chapters
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 10 – A Digital Copy of MILLER’S CREEK COLLECTION 2

This is a one-day drawing (December 14, 2015) for a digital copy of MILLER’S CREEK COLLECTION 2 ($5-$10 value). Drawing is open to the US only. Winner will be notified via email and announced on the Official Sweepstakes page. Entry into this giveaway will also count as an entry into the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD 6.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

More Giveaways and Deals

Here are a few more giveaways and deals you might be interested in:

$200 Amazon Gift Card giveaway (ends December 21, 2015)
Goodreads Giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (December 7-21, 2015)
Various giveaways of PIECES ON EARTH for the book’s virtual book tour
BELIEVE & KNOW (LifeSword Bible study on defending the faith) on sale for 99-cents (December 8-14, 2015).

The post 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 10 -Your 10th Prize to Win appeared first on Cathy Bryant.

Walk Through the WORD Acts 24-26

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Walk Through the WORD Previous Posts

Today we walk through the Word Acts 24-26. Join us as we walk together through the Word of God–to better know Him and make Him known, to gain strength for the journey as we grow in our faith, and to join our hearts in unity as the body of Christ.

Acts 1-3
Acts 4-6
Acts 7-8
Acts 9-10
Acts 11-12
Acts 13-14
Acts 15-16
Acts 17:16-19:41
Acts 20-23
Acts 24-26

During our last part of the Acts study, we saw Paul resolute about returning to Jerusalem, in spite of many warnings from many people. And we saw the expected consequences of him carrying through with his objective. As is always the case, our God can use even the worst of circumstances for our good and His glory. In Paul’s case, his arrest and imprisonment resulted in even more opportunities to share the gospel, this time with many powerful people.

Walk Through the WORD Acts 24-26

Read: Acts 24:1-27

Key Points:

{vss. 1-9} – Once again we see evil attacking good, twisting the truth into outrageous lies. In addition, we see Tertullus, the lawyer for Ananias, using flattery to get into the good graces of Governor Felix. If that wasn’t bad enough, they had Jews who served as witnesses, asserting that the false charges brought against Paul were true. Here’s a break-down of the charges:

Paul was accused of being a trouble-maker who stirred up riots among the Jews all over the world. In truth, there were riots, but they were stirred up by the Jews in opposition to Paul and his teaching about Jesus the Christ.
They called Paul a ringleader of the Nazarene sect. In the first century, the Nazarene sect referred to followers of Jesus, so they were correct. However, the terminology used, “ringleader” and “sect,” carried negative connotations that inferred insurrection against Rome. You can read more about the Nazarene sect here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nazarene_(sect)
Paul is also accused of trying to desecrate the temple. Since Paul had been known to have been among Gentiles, the Jews claimed that he hadn’t gone through the purification process, a charge that was absolutely false (Acts 21:26).


{vss. 10-21} Paul now gives his defense against the charges against him, first mentioning Felix’s history of judging for Israel. His counter includes these points:

He had gone up to the temple to worship–a fact Felix could easily verify–but he had also gone through the purification process.
The Jews had not found him arguing with anyone or stirring up a riot in the temple or city.
His accusers couldn’t prove any of the charges they were making against him.
Paul stated that he did indeed worship God as a follower of the Way (Christians), what the Jews had called a sect. He goes on to point out that he believes the same Law and Prophets of the Jews and the same hope in God that there would be a resurrection. I love that he mentioned that the resurrection would be of both righteous and wicked men. Perhaps this was Paul’s way of subtly warning the Jews that they needed to fall on the right side of that equation. Whatever the motivation for his statement, he then declares that his conscience is clear before both God and man.
In order to paint a true picture, Paul tells Felix that his purpose in coming to Jerusalem was to bring gifts for the poor (1 Corinthians 16:1; Romans 15:25) and to present offerings. In addition, when the Jews arrested him he was ceremonially clean, with no crowd or disturbance.
Paul is quick to mention the Asian Jews, who had followed him and stirred up trouble in every city where he sought to preach the gospel. He wants the Jews from Asia and the men who bore accusations against him now to tell him exactly for what crime they found him guilty.
Then Paul gets to the heart of the matter. The real reason he was on trial was because of his belief in the resurrection of Jesus. As believers, we must realize the importance and significance of the resurrection. Of all other proofs of Jesus as God, this is the one point that proves it above all others. During his earthly ministry, Jesus had clearly told His disciples and others that He would rise again (Mark 8:31; Matthew 17:22-23; Luke 9:22; John 2:19; Mark 14:58; Matthew 26:61; Matthew 12:39; Matthew 16:4; Matthew 27:63). His prophecy (and the prophecies of Old Testament prophets) had come true with startling accuracy.


{vss. 22-27} Felix had apparently already heard of the Way and adjourned the proceedings, declaring that he would decide Paul’s case when Lysias, the commander who had first arrested Paul, came to tell his part of the story. Though Paul was still under arrest, he was given some freedom, and his friends were allowed to take care of his needs. Several days later, Felix and his Jewish wife, Drusilla, visited Paul. Paul had the opportunity to speak to them about faith in Jesus, righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment. This was obviously enough to make Felix nervous. Sadly, that is the response of many with whom we try to share the gospel. Rather than change their ways in response to the gospel message, they close their ears and refuse to hear more. Hoping for a bribe from Paul, Felix sent for him several times and talked with him. For two years, this went on, until Felix was replaced by Porcius Festus. In order to be in good standing with the Jews, Felix left Paul in prison, rather than grant him his freedom.

Read: Acts 25:1-27

Key Points:

{vss. 1-7} Once Festus took office, he immediately traveled from Caesarea to Jerusalem. There was much unrest in the area, so obviously Festus thought it prudent to approach the matter head on. The Jews, of course, quickly latched on to his visit as a way to once more bring Paul to Jerusalem, where they planned to have him killed. Festus told them that they could come to Caesarea to make their case against Paul, if he had done anything wrong. Once he returned to Caesarea, Festus convened court and had Paul brought before him. The Jews once more breathed out their lies and false charges against Paul, none of which they could prove.

“Nero 1” by cjh1452000 – Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

{vss. 8-12} Paul once more asserted his innocence, and Festus, wanting to get in good with the Jews, asked Paul if he was willing to return to Jerusalem to stand trial there. Paul said he had done nothing wrong, the Jews hadn’t proved their case, and that as a Roman citizen, he appealed to Caesar. In all actuality, Paul was in a precarious position either way. He correctly discerned that he wouldn’t get a fair trial in Jerusalem. But at the same time, the Caesar at the time was Nero, a barbarous Roman leader who committed matricide and was well-known for his cruel mistreatment of Christians. Many historians believe that both Peter and Paul were martyred during Nero’s reign. Festus quickly jumped on Paul’s request, knowing full well that Paul wouldn’t fare any better by asking for a trial in Rome.
{vss. 13-22} Herod Agrippa, the Jewish king who ruled Judea under Roman jurisdiction, arrived in Caesarea with Bernice a few days later. Agrippa was the grandson of Herod the Great (Matthew 2:1). Bernice was his sister, with whom he was living incestuously. In visiting with Festus, the two men discussed Paul. Festus expressed his belief that the Jews’ charges against Paul were based on religious disputes, especially concerning “a dead man named Jesus who Paul claimed was alive.” See how the resurrection of Jesus once more comes into play? It is the key factor in our Christian beliefs, one that without doubt proves the deity of Christ. Agrippa asks to hear from Paul.
{vss. 23-27} The very next day, with great pomp, Festus, Agrippa, Bernice, and many other high-ranking officers and leading men of Caesarea, met in a great room. Paul was brought before them. Festus points out that he sees nothing in the charges brought against Paul that are deserving of death. But since Paul has appealed to Caesar, Festus has agreed, but has nothing to write to the emperor about Paul. His motivation for this meeting was to let them all hear Paul, so they could help him write the letter to Nero concerning Paul.

Read: Acts 26:1-32

Key Points:

{vss. 1-11} King Agrippa first gives his approval for Paul to speak, which he does, mentioning the fact that as the Judean king, Agrippa is more than aware of the Jewish customs and controversies. Paul then moves to his Jewish upbringing as a member of the Pharisees, and how ridiculous it was for him to be on trial for the very hope and faith in God that all Jews professed. Once more, he expertly brings the topic around to resurrection, the crux of the matter in his opposition from the Jews. He then gives an account of how he had once opposed Jesus of Nazareth and His followers, putting many saints in prison and casting votes for their deaths. He was so obsessed that he even went to foreign cities to hunt them down.
{vss. 12-23} In short order, Paul recounts his Damascus road experience, and follows with his obedience to Jesus. He mentions that the Jews have tried to kill him because of his testimony. Though he has said nothing other than what Moses and the prophets prophesied years before–that the Messiah would suffer and rise from the dead to proclaim light to his people and the Gentiles–the Jews have continued to seek his death.
{vss. 24-32} Festus interrupted, declaring Paul out of his mind. But very calmly and respectfully, Paul answers that his comments are both true and reasonable. After all, the works of Jesus were not done underground or in secret. Paul then boldly asks the king if he believes the prophets. King Agrippa recognizes this as Paul trying to persuade him to become a Christian. Agrippa, Festus and Bernice all leave, along with all those who sat with them. As they left, Agrippa and Festus agree that Paul has done nothing deserving of death. Agrippa ends the chapter on a chilling note: “This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar” –a statement that surely exposes Agrippa’s belief, that under the hand of Nero, Paul most certainly would not go free.

Walk Through the WORD Acts 24-26 Wrap-Up

Prayerfully consider the following questions. Feel free to add to our study by sharing in the comments below.

What are some modern-day examples of evil attacking good? What lies and twisting of the truth are used to do so?
How can simple word choices affect the impressions left upon people?
Do you think Paul does a good job of defending himself against the Jews before Felix? Why or why not?
Why is the resurrection of Jesus so important to our faith? Why was it a sticking point between Christians and the Jews?
Why do you think some people run away from the truth of the gospel?
If you had been in Paul’s shoes, what would you have done to pass the two years of imprisonment under Felix? What did Paul do during this time?
Was it wise of Paul to appeal to Caesar? Why or why not? Do you think it was God’s will for Paul to appeal to Caesar? (See Acts 23:11.) What was the danger of appealing to Caesar? What does this reveal about God?
What do you see as the main point of Paul’s testimony to King Herod Agrippa?
How did Paul handle the opportunity to speak before King Agrippa? What lesson is there her for us as modern-day followers of Christ?

All Posts in Our Study of Acts:

Acts 1-3
Acts 4-6
Acts 7-8
Acts 9-10
Acts 11-12
Acts 13-14
Acts 15-16
Acts 17-18:17
Acts 18:18-19:41
Act 20-23

The post Walk Through the WORD Acts 24-26 appeared first on Cathy Bryant.

12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 9 -Your 9th Prize to Win

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Welcome to the “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS 9!” Read the official sweepstakes rules at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/

Enter @Cathy_Bryant’s 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS! Grand Prize: #KindleFire HD6
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12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 9

The ninth prize up for grabs in the Christmas Giveaways 9 is a print copy of BELIEVE & KNOW: THE SEARCH FOR TRUTH (5 stars with 6 reviews), the LifeSword Bible study I wrote as a companion to the spiritual theme of CROSSROADS.

NOTE: Entrance into each day’s giveaway counts as entries in the Grand Prize giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. So the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning!

Here’s the scoop about this prize (retail value: $8):

BELIEVE & KNOW

God wants us to know Him and believe!

Each human being, on their journey and search for truth, must at some point reflect on their life and answer important questions. Why am I here? Is there life beyond life as I now know it? How did the universe and man come into existence, and how does the answer affect me?

This book addresses the hard questions and decisions that accompany the search for truth. It was written with three types of readers in mind: those who struggle with faith, many times because of skewed perceptions or even anger; those who profess faith in the unseen, but find it difficult to live out; and finally those whose faith is strong, but who need information to combat the arguments and questions of others.

In this book, we will look at these topics and more:

The Danger of Unbelief
Proof of Intelligent Design
The Problem of Evil
Proof of Jesus as God
Proof of God’s Love for Mankind
God’s Plan for Us to Believe and Know
Faith Matters

SPECIAL OFFER:  BELIEVE & KNOW is currently on sale for just $0.99 for Kindle.

| Print | Kindle |

“An encouraging and convincing study!” ~Amazon reviewer

BELIEVE & KNOW – Read A Sample Chapter
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 9 – A Print Copy of BELIEVE & KNOW

This is a one-day drawing (December 11, 2015) for a print copy of BELIEVE & KNOW ($8 value). Drawing is open to the US only. Winner will be notified via email and announced on the Official Sweepstakes page. Entry into this giveaway will also count as an entry into the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD 6.

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More Giveaways and Deals

Here are a few more giveaways and deals you might be interested in:

$200 Amazon Gift Card giveaway (ends December 21, 2015)
Goodreads Giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (December 7-21, 2015)
Various giveaways of PIECES ON EARTH for the book’s virtual book tour
BELIEVE & KNOW (LifeSword Bible study on defending the faith) on sale for 99-cents (December 8-14, 2015).

The post 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 9 -Your 9th Prize to Win appeared first on Cathy Bryant.

12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 8 -Your 8th Prize to Win

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Welcome to the “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS 8!” Read the official sweepstakes rules at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/

Enter @Cathy_Bryant’s 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS! Grand Prize: #KindleFire HD6
Click To Tweet

12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 8

The eighth prize up for grabs is a print copy of CROSSROADS (4.8 stars with 53 reviews), which has been on the Amazon Bestseller and Hot New Releases lists.

NOTE: Entrance into each day’s giveaway counts as entries in the Grand Prize giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. So the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning!

Here’s the scoop about this prize (retail value: $14):

CROSSROADS

A soldier battles for the soul of a prodigal.

A bitter single mom and atheist starts her own real estate company in the nostalgic and picturesque town of Miller’s Creek, Texas. Then her young daughter’s symptoms lead lead to a disturbing diagnosis. With her new life now turned upside down, Mara struggles to keep her business afloat. And her daughter’s worsening condition forces her to rethink her beliefs about Carter Callahan and his God. Will Mara make the return to Christian faith in the face of life’s greatest challenge?

An ex-military operative struggles with the return to civilian life while coping with his rebellious teen-aged daughter. During a house-search, Carter meets Mara, a headstrong Realtor who wants nothing to do with his God. But when Mara’s little girl is diagnosed with leukemia, the clock begins ticking for him to convince Mara to return to a life of faith. Just as he seems to be making headway, circumstances beyond his control throw his efforts into a tailspin. Can Carter learn to rest in the sovereignty of God?

| Print | Kindle |

“Oh this is my most favorite Miller’s Creek book thus far. I laughed and I cried! Beautifully written with a heart for Christ!” ~Amazon reviewer

CROSSROADS – Read 5 Sample Chapters
12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 8 – A Print Copy of CROSSROADS

This is a one-day drawing (December 10, 2015) for a print copy of CROSSROADS ($14 value). Drawing is open to the US only. Winner will be notified via email and announced on the Official Sweepstakes page. Entry into this giveaway will also count as an entry into the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD 6.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

More Giveaways and Deals

Here are a few more giveaways and deals you might be interested in:

$200 Amazon Gift Card giveaway (ends December 21, 2015)
Goodreads Giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (December 7-21, 2015)
Various giveaways of PIECES ON EARTH for the book’s virtual book tour
BELIEVE & KNOW (LifeSword Bible study on defending the faith) on sale for 99-cents (December 8-14, 2015).

The post 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 8 -Your 8th Prize to Win appeared first on Cathy Bryant.

12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 7 -Your 7th Prize to Win

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Welcome to the “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS 7!” Read the official sweepstakes rules at this link: http://www.catbryant.com/2015-christmas-giveaways/

Enter @Cathy_Bryant’s 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS! Grand Prize: #KindleFire HD6
Click To Tweet

12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 7

The seventh prize up for grabs is a digital copy of MILLER’S CREEK COLLECTION 1 (4.9 stars with 29 reviews), a bundle of the first three Miller’s Creek novels, Texas Roads, A Path Less Traveled, and The Way of Grace. 

NOTE: Entrance into each day’s giveaway counts as entries in the Grand Prize giveaway of a Kindle Fire HD 6. So the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning!

Here’s the scoop about this prize (retail value: $5, or $9 if purchased separately):

MILLER’S CREEK COLLECTION 1

Amazon Best-Selling Book Bundle of Christian Romance & Romantic Suspense

This Millers Creek Collection of the first three faith-based stories in the beloved Millers Creek novels by Christian author Cathy Bryant shares the messages of finding true home, trusting God, and sharing the gift of God’s grace and mercy with others.

Also Includes a Sneak-Peek Chapter From PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE,the fourth book in the Millers Creek novels.

| Kindle |

“I have read all three books twice and would read them again. They each have a good story, easy to follow, well written. The characters are “real” people that I can identify with.” ~Amazon reviewer

To Read Sample Chapters in Each of the Books in This Bundle, Click the Links Below:

TEXAS ROADS

A PATH LESS TRAVELED

THE WAY OF GRACE

12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 7 – A Digital Copy of MILLER’S CREEK COLLECTION 1

This is a one-day drawing (December 9, 2015) for a digital copy of MILLER’S CREEK COLLECTION 1 ($5-9 value). Drawing is open to the US only. Winner will be notified via email and announced on the Official Sweepstakes page. Entry into this giveaway will also count as an entry into the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD 6.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

More Giveaways and Deals

Here are a few more giveaways and deals you might be interested in:

$200 Amazon Gift Card giveaway (ends December 21, 2015)
Goodreads Giveaway of PIECES ON EARTH (December 7-21, 2015)
Various giveaways of PIECES ON EARTH for the book’s virtual book tour
BELIEVE & KNOW (LifeSword Bible study on defending the faith) on sale for 99-cents (December 8-14, 2015).

The post 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 7 -Your 7th Prize to Win appeared first on Cathy Bryant.