For Zion’s Sake Podcast

Shelly & June Volk

Shelly and June Volk are Jewish believers. Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. June is a bible teacher and conference speaker who is the author of 3 books: The God Who Answers By Fire; A Jewish Saga (2009) Drinking from the Wells of Salvation with Study Guide (2014) The Secret Place – 31 Day Devotional (2019) Shelly and June have been on radio for over 33 years. .

  1. 2d ago

    Nevertheless - Friday

    Here is a podcast description structured for this concluding episode, based on the transcript provided: Podcast Title: Living a "Nevertheless" Life: Standing Firm on an Unshakable FoundationEpisode Description Welcome to the series finale on For Zion's Sake, hosted by Shelly Volk and his son, Scott Volk. Wrapping up their weeklong exploration of the word "Nevertheless," Shelly and Scott address a foundational question: What does a nevertheless life actually look like? In a world defined by shifting cultures, changing economies, and unpredictable circumstances, believers are called to stand on a foundation that remains completely sure. From Paul's encouraging words in 2 Timothy to Jesus' poignant challenge to the church in Revelation regarding returning to our "first love," this episode highlights that living a "nevertheless" life is about far more than just correct doctrine—it's about wholehearted surrender, firm hope in future promises, and a deep, intimate relationship with God. Key Takeaways An Unshakable Foundation: Grounded in 2 Timothy 2:19, while everything in our culture and environment fluctuates, God's foundation stands firm and His covenant remains completely secure. Returning to Your First Love: Looking at Revelation 2:4–5, God isn't merely impressed by our good deeds or busy schedules. Living a "nevertheless" life requires guarding our hearts against distraction and keeping our personal love for Christ as our top priority. Looking Ahead with Hope: Drawing from 2 Peter 3:13–14, believers aren't stranded in the past; we look forward with confidence to the new heavens and new earth, anchored by the certainty that every future promise of God will be fulfilled. Relationship Over Performance: As Scott emphasizes, God spoke His pleasure over Jesus at His baptism before He ever performed a miracle. God desires our hearts and intimate connection far more than what we can accomplish for Him. A Summary of the Series: Every "nevertheless" in Scripture—from Abraham and Sarah in their old age to Peter's full nets and Jesus in Gethsemane—points to the reality that God's faithful character always overcomes human limitations. Scripture References & Links Follow along with the scriptures featured in today's broadcast: The Sure Foundation of God: 2 Timothy 2:19 Remembering Your First Love: Revelation 2:4–5 Looking for New Heavens and New Earth: 2 Peter 3:13–14 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  2. 3d ago

    Nevertheless - Thursday

    Here is a podcast description structured for this episode, based on the transcript from the current page: Podcast Title: Standing on His Counsel: Launching Out Into the DeepEpisode Description Welcome back to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Shelley Volk and his son, Scott Volk. In this episode of their series on the word "Nevertheless," Shelley and Scott discuss how faith doesn't ignore difficult circumstances—it simply chooses to trust that God's word is greater than our current reality. Drawing from the Book of Proverbs, the Psalms, and the Gospels, this message reminds us that human plans may change, but the counsel of the Lord always stands. Even when we feel cut off, feel heaven is silent, or face deep disappointment after working hard with nothing to show for it, stepping out in faith at God's command changes everything. Join us as we learn to trade our human limitations for God’s character, stepping beyond the shallow waters of self-reliance into the deep places of His faithfulness. Key Takeaways God’s Counsel Endures: While human hearts formulate many plans, Proverbs 19:21 reminds us that God's purpose and authority supersede every human strategy, offering ultimate stability. Faith Above Feelings: In Psalm 31:22, David felt cut off and abandoned, yet God heard his cry. Our feelings constantly shift, but God's faithfulness remains steadfast regardless of how silent heaven seems. Repentance Over Disobedience: As seen in Judges 2:16, God never condones sin, but He always responds to a repentant heart by raising up deliverance and mercy. Stepping Out into the Deep: Following the disciples' experience in Luke 5, moving past disappointment requires launching out into the deep waters where we can no longer rely on our own ability, allowing God to perform what only He can do. Overcoming the World: Grounded in John 16:33, Christ promises His presence and victory in the middle of tribulation, teaching us that faith isn't the absence of trials, but the presence of Christ. Scripture References & Links Follow along with the scriptures featured in today's broadcast: The Counsel of the Lord: Proverbs 19:21 He Heard My Supplication: Psalm 31:22 God Raises Up Deliverers: Judges 2:16 Overcoming the World: John 16:33 Launch Out Into the Deep: Luke 5:4–5 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  3. 4d ago

    Nevertheless - Wednesday

    Here is a podcast description structured for this episode, based on the transcript from the current page: Podcast Title: The Ultimate Surrender: Finding Strength in the Greatest "Nevertheless"Episode Description Welcome to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Shelly Volk and his son, Scott Volk. In this powerful continuation of their study on the word "Nevertheless," Shelly and Scott look at what they call the single greatest "nevertheless" in all of Scripture: Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Faced with the immediate reality of betrayal, suffering, and the cross, Jesus didn't pretend the pain wasn't real. Instead, He brought His honest struggle to the Father and declared, "Nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt." Join us as we unpack what it means to face our own "Gethsemane moments"—whether dealing with illness, heartbreak, or closed doors—and discover how surrendering our will to God's higher plans brings true transformation, strength, and spiritual victory. Key Takeaways The Greatest Act of Surrender: Facing the agony of the cross, Jesus prayed for the cup to pass if possible, yet anchored His heart in "nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt." Real faith doesn't deny human pain or struggle; it surrenders through it. Every Believer’s Gethsemane: Every Christian eventually encounters moments of deep trial or disappointment where they must choose between insisting on their own desire or submitting to God's ultimate plan. Crucified Yet Living: Reflecting on Paul's declaration in Galatians 2:20 ("I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live..."), true Christian living isn't about self-improvement, but wholehearted surrender that lets Christ live through us. Purpose in Discipline: Pain and spiritual discipline are never purposeless. While chastening feels grievous in the present moment, it eventually yields the "peaceable fruit of righteousness" in those who yield to it. God’s Order for Victory: Drawing from James 4:7, the speaker notes that resisting the devil only works after first submitting to God. True victory over spiritual enemies flows entirely from a heart of initial surrender. Scripture References & Links Follow along with the scriptures featured in today's broadcast: The Prayer in Gethsemane: Matthew 26:39 Crucified with Christ: Galatians 2:20 The Fruit of Discipline: Hebrews 12:11 Submit and Resist: James 4:7 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  4. 5d ago

    Nevertheless - Tuesday

    Episode Description Welcome back to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Shelly Volk and his son, Scott Volk. Continuing their deep dive into the profound biblical word "Nevertheless," Shelly and Scott explore how this single word serves as a direct window into the character and heart of God—most clearly demonstrated through His relationship with Israel. While human failure, unfaithfulness, and broken covenants demand judgment, God repeatedly steps in with a "nevertheless" to offer covenant mercy. From Jeremiah and Ezekiel to the Psalms and Nehemiah, this episode reveals that God’s faithfulness never relies on our perfection, but on His unchanging promises. Join us to discover how the truth of God’s everlasting covenant brings hope, comfort, and restoration to anyone who feels far from Him. Key Takeaways A Window into God's Heart: The word "nevertheless" is more than just a phrase of hope; it shows that God doesn't abandon His promises even when His people stumble or fail. Justice vs. Mercy: While justice calls for consequences, God’s covenant calls for mercy. Israel faced real discipline and exile, yet God promised never to make a full end of them because of His covenant. The Witness of Israel's Survival: Centuries of survival despite persecution and dispersion stand as a living testament to God's faithfulness, proving that His promises are kept by His power, not human strength. Saved for His Name's Sake: Salvation and mercy are not earned by merit or perfect obedience. God acts for His name's sake because He is naturally gracious, merciful, and incapable of denying Himself. Mercy Has the Final Word: For anyone feeling far from the Lord, the message remains the same: God disciplines in love and forgives in mercy, guaranteeing that His grace always has the last word. Scripture References & Links Follow along with the scriptures featured in today's broadcast: Unfaithfulness and the Promise of Mercy: Jeremiah 5:11 & Jeremiah 5:18 An Everlasting Covenant Remembered: Ezekiel 16:58–60 Saved for His Name's Sake: Psalm 106:6–8 A Gracious and Merciful God: Nehemiah 9:31 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  5. 6d ago

    Nevertheless - Monday

    Episode Description Welcome to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Shelly Volk and his son, Scott Volk. In this thoughtful and encouraging broadcast, Shelly and Scott focus entirely on a single, transformative word found throughout Scripture: "Nevertheless." When situations seem completely hopeless, when human efforts fail, and when circumstances appear impossible, God frequently speaks the word "nevertheless" to rewrite the narrative. However, grasping the weight of this word requires us to embrace a foundational truth: God’s thoughts and ways are vastly higher than our own. From the miraculous birth of Isaac to the falling walls of Jericho and Peter's late-night catch of fish, this episode explores what happens when we set aside our personal expectations, stop demanding explanations, and yield to God's divine perspective. Key Takeaways Higher Thoughts, Higher Ways: Grounded in Isaiah 55, we are reminded that our struggles often stem from expecting God to work on our human timelines and through our limited logic. The "Nevertheless" Turnaround: "Nevertheless" marks the exact boundary where human impossibility meets divine intervention. Everything stated before the "nevertheless" may be true (e.g., exhaustion, failure, lack of progress), but God's word always has the final say. Miracles Beyond Logic: Throughout biblical history—whether reducing Gideon's army to 300 or asking Joshua to defeat a fortress by marching and shouting—God delights in using methods that defy human reasoning so that the glory belongs solely to Him. Trust Precedes Understanding: We naturally want God to explain His plans before we obey. True faith requires trusting His character and heart first, knowing that clarity and understanding will follow in His timing. At Thy Word: Following Simon Peter's example in Luke 5, when we've worked all night and caught nothing, our response to Christ's direction must always be, "Nevertheless at Thy word." Scripture References & Links Explore and meditate on the scripture passages featured in today's message: God's Thoughts are Higher: Isaiah 55:8–9 Unsearchable Judgments and Ways: Romans 11:33 Teach Me Thy Way: Psalm 86:11 Nevertheless at Thy Word: Luke 5:4–5 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  6. Jul 24

    Anxiety - Friday

    Episode Title: Be Anxious for Nothing: Cultivating Trust in a Worried World Join hosts Sheldon N. Volk (Shelley) and June (Juni) for the conclusion of this week's series on anxiety. In a world full of turbulence and reasons to worry, For Zion's Sake dives deep into the ultimate scriptural antidote to panic: unconditional trust and cultivated faithfulness in God. From the prison cells of Philippi to the timeless wisdom of missionary Hudson Taylor, this episode provides a vital roadmap for shifting your focus away from shifting circumstances and anchoring your mind securely in the perfect peace of the Lord. Key Takeaways: The Weight of Worry: Recognizing that the biblical definition of anxiety is a literal "weighing down" of the heart, which frequently opens the door to depression among believers. Cultivating Faithfulness: A look at faith as a fruit of the Spirit that must be nourished and tested to grow. Just as Abraham trusted God without hesitation through his greatest trials, our faith is actively cultivated during difficult seasons. The Power of Praise in the Midnight Hour: Reflecting on Paul and Silas, who chose prayer and worship over panic while chained in a prison cell, resulting in a supernatural breakthrough and salvation for those around them. The Hudson Taylor Principle: Embracing the freedom that comes when we hand over our work, plans, families, and lives entirely to God—leaving nothing left to worry or fret about. Perfect Peace (Shalom Shalom): A breakdown of the Hebrew repetition of peace in Isaiah, proving that double-measure peace is guaranteed exclusively to those who keep their minds firmly established on Him. Featured Bible Passages: Philippians 4:6-7 – "Be anxious for nothing..." and the peace that guards your heart. Proverbs 12:25 – How anxiety weighs down the heart of man. Psalm 55:22 – Casting your burdens on the Lord to be sustained. 1 Peter 5:7 – Casting all your care upon Him because He cares for you. Psalm 37:3 – Trusting in the Lord, doing good, and cultivating faithfulness. Acts 16 – Paul and Silas praising God at midnight in prison. Isaiah 26:3-4 – Keeping the firmly established mind in perfect peace (Shalom, Shalom). Psalm 32:10 – Mercy surrounding those who trust in the Lord. Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trusting the Lord with all your heart and leaning not on your own understanding. Psalm 125:1 – Becoming unmoved like Mount Zion. Psalm 31:1-5 – Committing your spirit into the hands of the Lord, our rock and fortress. Jeremiah 17:7-8 – The man who trusts in the Lord being like a tree planted by the waters that does not fear drought. Nahum 1:7 – The Lord as a stronghold who knows those who trust in Him. Connect & Support: Mailing Address: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082 Website: shellyandjunevolk.com This broadcast is proudly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  7. Jul 23

    Anxiety - Thursday

    Episode Title: Be Anxious for Nothing — Overcoming Affliction and Renewing the Inner Man Welcome to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Sheldon N. Volk (Shelley) and June (Juni). In this episode, Shelley and Juni continue their exploration of overcoming anxiety, taking a closer look at how believers can cultivate righteousness and maintain eternal perspectives during heavy trials. From the midnight praises of Paul and Silas in a Philippian jail cell to timeless, convicting wisdom from Charles Spurgeon, learn how to stop losing heart when life gets heavy, shifting your gaze from temporal afflictions to the eternal weight of God's glory. Key Takeaways: The Spiritual Focus Deficit: A reminder that the original Greek root of anxiety means "turning in another direction." Worry pulls our gaze away from the Creator and anchors it firmly onto the problem. Midnight in the Prison Cells: A powerful examination of Paul and Silas in Philippi (Acts 16:25-30). Instead of giving way to panic or anxiety over their chains, they immediately weaponized prayer and praise at midnight, triggering a supernatural breakthrough. Renewing the Inner Man Daily: Juni breaks down 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, sharing how even when our physical bodies or situations are decaying, our inner man is daily renewed when we look past temporal, visible issues to eternal realities. Spurgeon on Fretful Folly: Highlighting Charles Spurgeon's classic message Do Not Worry, Shelley shares how anxiety is both needless and useless. Just as a bird sings without two grains of barley to its name, heirs of heaven are called to trust a Father who easily commands the bottles of heaven. Sustained Through the Burden: Standing firmly on the promise of Psalm 55:22—realizing that if we genuinely cast our heavy burdens onto the Lord, He guarantees He will sustain us and keep the righteous from being permanently moved. Featured Bible Passages: Philippians 4:6 — "Be anxious for nothing..." Proverbs 12:25 — Anxiety in the heart causing depression versus a good word making it glad. Psalm 28:2, 6 — The Lord hearing the voice of urgent supplication. Psalm 119:170 — Asking for deliverance according to God's word. 1 Peter 5:7 — Casting all anxiety upon Him because He cares for you. Psalm 37:3 — Trusting in the Lord and cultivating faithfulness. Romans 4 — Abraham hoping against hope without his faith wavering. Acts 16:25-30 — Paul and Silas praying and singing hymns in prison, leading to the jailer's salvation. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 — Momentary light affliction producing an eternal weight of glory. Psalm 55:22 — "Cast your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you..." Connect & Support: Get in Touch: We love connecting with our community. Write to us with prayer requests, questions, or updates at: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Online Resources: For more teachings, digital archives, and up-to-date ministry insights, check out our website at shellyandjunevolk.com. This radio broadcast is made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Psalm 127 Fund. Put a stake in the ground today, cast out fear, and may the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace! Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  8. Jul 22

    Anxiety - Wednesday

    Episode Title: Be Anxious for Nothing — Finding Strength and Faith in the Promises of God Welcome to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Sheldon N. Volk (Shelley) and June (Juni). In this powerful episode, Shelley and Juni dive deep into the spiritual anatomy of anxiety and worry, exploring how it drains our daily strength and pulls our focus completely away from God. Pulling wisdom from the original Greek and Hebrew definitions, timeless quotes from faith heroes, and the ultimate template of faith found in the life of Abraham, this episode offers a practical blueprint for turning your anxiety over to the Lord and walking in supernatural peace. Key Takeaways: The Definition of Anxiety: In Greek, anxiety literally means "to turn or be drawn away in a different direction." When we focus entirely on our overwhelming circumstances, we inadvertently turn our eyes away from God. The Weight of Worry: In Hebrew, anxiety translates directly to being "heavy laden" or weighted down. Scripturally, a heart heavy with anxiety is a direct catalyst for situational depression (Proverbs 12:25). The Danger of Carrying Tomorrow: Reflecting on powerful insights from Charles Spurgeon and Corrie ten Boom, the Volks remind us that worry doesn't empty tomorrow of its sorrow—it simply empties today of its strength by trying to carry two days' loads at once. Surrendering the "All": Applying the life-changing perspective of missionary Hudson Taylor: when we completely hand over our plans, families, work, and lives to God, there is simply nothing left for us to fret over. The Abraham Template: A study of Abram's immediate, unanxious obedience to leave his homeland (Genesis 12:1-4) and his unwavering posture of "hope against hope" regarding God's promise of a child (Romans 4:17-21). Even when human reasoning said it was impossible, he grew strong in faith by cultivating God's faithfulness. Featured Bible Passages: Philippians 4:6 — "Be anxious for nothing..." Proverbs 12:25 — Anxiety in the heart causes depression, but a good word makes it glad. Psalm 28:2, 6 — Crying out for help and blessing the Lord who hears our supplications. Psalm 86:6 — Giving ear to prayer and taking heed to the voice of supplication. Psalm 119:170 — "Let my supplication come before thee; deliver me according to thy word." 1 Peter 5:7 — Casting all your anxiety upon Him because He cares for you. Psalm 37:3 — Trust in the Lord, do good, dwell in the land, and cultivate faithfulness. Genesis 12:1-4 — God's unconditional covenant with Abram and his immediate departure. Genesis 15:1-6 — The promise of a biological heir and Abram's counting of the stars. Romans 4:17-21 — Believing in hope against hope and growing strong in faith without wavering. Connect & Support: Get in Touch: If you have been blessed by this message, have a testimony to share, or would like to send a prayer request, please write to us at: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Online Resources: Access previous broadcasts, articles, and ministry updates anytime by visiting our official website at shellyandjunevolk.com. This program is lovingly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Until next time, may the Lord bless you, keep you, and give you his perfect peace! Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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About

Shelly and June Volk are Jewish believers. Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. June is a bible teacher and conference speaker who is the author of 3 books: The God Who Answers By Fire; A Jewish Saga (2009) Drinking from the Wells of Salvation with Study Guide (2014) The Secret Place – 31 Day Devotional (2019) Shelly and June have been on radio for over 33 years. .