In this episode of Arise + Abide, Curtis and Sally continue their chronological journey through the Old Testament, reading from 2 Kings 17:15,18:9 and Isaiah 28. Together, these passages reveal the downfall of Samaria, the consequences of misplaced trust, and God's patient, persistent call to His people.

As Assyria lays siege to Samaria, Isaiah's prophetic imagery exposes a nation meant to be a "glorious crown" but now marked by pride, excess, and spiritual blindness. The hosts reflect on striking images from the text—fading flowers, crumbling refuges, and tables covered in filth—contrasted with God's promise to become the true crown and refuge for a faithful remnant.

Curtis and Sally explore the tenderness of God's communication with His people, described as teaching "one line at a time, a little here and a little there." Rather than overwhelming demands, God offers rest—a place for the weary to stop striving and trust Him. The discussion highlights the human tendency to rush, to build false security, and to believe we can "cheat death" apart from God.

At the heart of the episode is the promise of the tested cornerstone—a firm foundation that cannot be shaken. Pointing forward to the Messiah, this cornerstone stands in contrast to every refuge built on pride, lies, or self-reliance. This episode invites listeners to examine where they have built false refuges, to release the need for control, and to rediscover true rest in the Lord—ultimately pointing to the promised cornerstone fulfilled in Jesus, the only foundation that will never be shaken.

In this episode of Arise + Abide, Curtis and Sally reflect on Psalm 140, a raw and honest prayer for rescue in the face of violence, evil, and hidden schemes. As David cries out for protection, the hosts explore how the psalm moves from urgent plea to confident trust—reminding us who God is when circumstances feel overwhelming.

The conversation highlights God as the strong rescuer, the One who sees hidden traps, opposes pride, and ultimately brings justice to the oppressed. Curtis and Sally discuss the tension between praying for deliverance from enemies and praying in a way that honors God's justice and glory, drawing connections to Jesus' call to love and pray for those who persecute us.

This episode invites listeners to bring their fears, frustrations, and concerns about evil in the world directly to God—trusting that He sees, He protects, and His plan for justice will prevail. Whether in seasons of peace or turmoil, Psalm 140 reminds us that the godly will dwell in the Lord's presence, confident in His rescue.

In this episode of Arise + Abide, Curtis and Sally conclude the book of Hosea by walking through chapter 14, a powerful invitation to repentance, healing, and restoration. After the warnings and judgment of chapter 13, Hosea 14 offers hope—calling God's people to return with confession, humility, and renewed trust in the Lord alone.

Together, they explore God's clear instructions for repentance: acknowledging sin, renouncing misplaced trust in idols, power, and self-reliance, and returning to the One who truly saves. Curtis and Sally reflect on God's promise to heal faithlessness, remove His anger, and restore His people with mercy and unfailing love.

The conversation highlights the rich imagery of the chapter—refreshing dew, blossoming lilies, deep roots, spreading branches, shade, fragrance, and fruitfulness—contrasting the dryness and barrenness of life apart from God with the abundant life found in relationship with Him. They discuss how confession restores intimacy with God and how true flourishing comes not from human strength or substitutes for security, but from abiding in the Lord who hears prayers and cares deeply for His people.

This episode is an encouragement to anyone seeking restoration: a reminder that God eagerly welcomes the repentant, offers healing and renewal, and provides the shade under which His people can once again live, grow, and bear fruit.