Biblical Talks Life's challenges may sometimes seem overwhelming. Despite the circumstances, you may have been seeking a solution for years, willing to try almost anything, yet without success. In those moments, hopelessness may creep in. However, it is crucial to stay persistent in hope, trusting that God has a plan. In this episode of Biblical Talks, SD and Lady V explore an example of this in John 5:1-15 from the New Living Translation. This scripture gives the account of a man paralyzed for thirty-eight years, lying at the pool of Bethesda. Legend told of an angel descending to stir the waters of the pool. The first one to enter after the stirring would be cured of any ailment they suffered. The paralyzed man was present, yearning to be the fortunate one, yet his attempts were fruitless. But his persistence in hope never wavered, year after year. You see, God had a plan – a perfect plan – on the way. Upon Jesus of Nazareth's return to Jerusalem during a Jewish holy day, He encountered the paralyzed man. Following a brief conversation, Jesus healed him, and the man immediately regained the ability to walk. Although the man had been waiting for the stirring of the pool, God had a different plan in store for him. With that in mind, here are a couple questions for you. Have you read John 5:1-15? If so, what are your thoughts? If not, no worries, we've got you covered. In any case, join us with your Bible or Bible app. Also, go ahead and use the player at the top of this blog post or subscribe and listen via your preferred podcast platform to follow along. Then get encouraged by joining SD and Lady V in this Biblical Talk — Stay Persistent in Hope — GOD Has a Plan. Scriptures Referenced in Episode Discussion John 5:1-15 NLT Luke 18:1-8 John 14:6 Luke 1:37 Numbers 6:24-26 Ephesians 2:8-9 Romans 10:9-10 John 3:16-17 Receive your Free Gift of Salvation – The Gospel of Jesus Christ Explanation If you are reading this, it is not by chance. This is your time to receive the Gift of Salvation through Christ Jesus. Now, you may be wondering, "Why do I need that?" Oh, I'm so glad you asked. The Bible says, that because Adam ate fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil -- he released sin into the world. And ultimately, Adam's sin brought death and death spread to everyone. No doubt, you may be thinking, "Of course, everyone is going to die." But, my question to you is "Where will you spend eternity?" Because there is life after death. In fact, when you die you go to one of two places -- heaven or hell. Also, it is important to understand that, Adam’s sin also brought an eternity in hell. But for those who choose not to receive the free gift of eternal life. Thus, you must make that choice before you take your last breath. Romans 5:17 New Living Translation says, “For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ.” To sum it all up, Romans 6:23 New Living Translation says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” So, if you are reading this, don't let another day go by without receiving this life-changing gift. Scripture Romans 10:8-10 New Living Translation says, “8 …“The message is very close at hand; it is on your lips and in your heart.” And that message is the very message about faith that we preach: 9 If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.” Salvation Prayer Lord Jesus, I am a sinner, and I am sorry for my sins.