In this episode of Arise + Abide, Curtis and Sally reflect on Psalm 149 and its powerful call to praise the Lord with joy, creativity, and wholehearted devotion. From singing a "new song" to rejoicing even in rest, this psalm paints a vibrant picture of worship that flows from a living relationship with God.

As the conversation unfolds, they explore the striking shift in tone in the second half of the psalm—moving from celebration to themes of judgment and justice. Together, they wrestle with what this means for believers today, emphasizing that while God is just and will ultimately make all things right, we are called in this present time to reflect His love, humility, and patience.

Drawing connections to the New Testament, including Paul and Silas praising God in prison, Curtis and Sally highlight the invitation to praise God in every season—whether in joy, hardship, or waiting. This episode is a reminder that our victory is found in Jesus, the humble King, and that a life of praise is not dependent on circumstances but rooted in who God is.

In this powerful episode of Arise + Abide, Curtis and Sally explore 2 Kings 16:19–20 and Isaiah 13, tracing the transition from King Ahaz to Hezekiah and unpacking Isaiah's prophetic vision of Babylon's fall.

Reflecting on Israel's earlier failure as God's vineyard—called to produce justice but yielding oppression—they examine how God's judgment extends beyond His own people to the nations. Though Babylon would be used as an instrument of discipline, it would not escape accountability. Isaiah's message reveals a sobering truth: God opposes pride, judges wickedness, and ultimately humbles even the most powerful empires.

The conversation dives into the meaning of "the day of the Lord," a recurring biblical theme describing seasons of divine judgment and restoration. Curtis and Sally connect Isaiah's imagery—darkened skies, trembling nations, and upheaval—to Jesus' teachings in Matthew 24 and the broader biblical narrative, including Revelation's portrayal of Babylon as a symbol of ongoing spiritual opposition to God.

Yet, amid the intensity of judgment, this episode highlights hope. Believers are reminded that while the "spirit of Babylon" still operates in the world today, God's promises remain secure. His coming will not only bring justice but also freedom—shaking loose everything that oppresses, leaving only what is unshakable.

This episode invites listeners to examine where they place their trust, to reject fear, and to stand firm in the promises of God—living with boldness, hope, and confidence in Christ's ultimate victory.

In this episode of Arise + Abide, Sally and Curtis reflect on Psalm 148, a powerful call for all creation to praise the Lord. From the heights of heaven to the depths of the earth, the psalm invites angels, stars, mountains, animals, rulers, and people of every generation to lift their voices in worship.

Together they explore the structure of the psalm and the reasons it gives for praise: God is the Creator of all things, the One whose commands brought the world into being and whose authority extends over wind, weather, and all creation. They also discuss the unique nature of God compared to the false gods of the nations and the promise found in drawing near to Him.

The conversation turns to what it means for believers today—praising God not only in good circumstances but in every season, remaining close to Him, and finding strength in His presence. As the episode concludes, Sally and Curtis reflect on the invitation God gives His people to draw near and live lives marked by continual praise and gratitude.