North Lakeland

Love Without Limits

Matthew 6:14, 15; Luke 23:32

Scripture tells us that we are to forgive if we’re going to be pleasing to God. If we don’t forgive, we put our own forgiveness in jeopardy.

Matthew 6:14, 15. We have a very clear example of Jesus’ ability to forgive. Luke 23:32-33. Jesus prayed in Luke 23:34 “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

1. Jesus teaches us to pray for those who have hurt or offended us.

Luke 6:28 “Jesus said, ‘Bless those who curse you, and pray for those who hurt you.’” We are to pray in love. Matthew 5:44. Jesus says, “I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Scripture teaches that whatever is born out of bitterness and hate is not greater than the love that God has vested in you. A RIGHT ATTITUDE PRECEDES A RIGHT ACTION. When we’re overwhelmed with bitterness toward someone, there’s no way we’re going to have the right action. The right attitude will eventually lead to the right action.

2. We are to forgive as we have been forgiven. Colossians 3:13.

We are to forgive as the Lord forgave us. If we’re walking in the Spirit and endeavoring to do right, we will be a target of the enemy. Being a forgiver is not difficult if we remember just how much we’ve been forgiven by the Master. Keep your heart open and allow the Holy Spirit to fill you with power so that the anointing of God’s Spirit will soothe the wounds and bring healing. God loves us enough to give us grace, mercy, and time to forgive like Jesus forgave.

Uncommon

2 Corinthians 8:1-9

Love gives, expecting nothing in the way of a guarantee or a return. That simply means, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” We are not spiritual consumers; we are spiritual contributors. We realize that the church does not exist for us, but we are the church, and we exist for a dark world. We want to be the church that practices Acts 20:35 “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Some people are raised with a Scarcity Mindset, as opposed to an Abundance Mindset. When you become a believer, you get the mind of Christ, which is an absolute abundance mindset. A scarcity mindset believes that there is simply not enough to go around, will always see lack, always protect and hang on to what they have because they believe that the source of their assets comes from their abilities to make it happen, their strength, and their intellect. But that doesn’t match the faith lifestyle.

2 Corinthians 8:1-4. What do you think is more prevalent in culture today? The scarcity mindset or the abundance mindset? 2 Corinthians 8:5-7. An abundant lifestyle of giving yourself away – your time, talents, abilities – to benefit others with no desire of a return is called irrational generosity.

Isaiah 32:8; Matthew 23:23; Acts 4:33-34. Possess an irrational spirit of generosity, and you’ll see great and mighty miracles. Everything you do in the Name of the Lord will come back, pressed down, shaken together, and running over in your life, and in your family!

Uncommon

Matthew 9:10-13; Mark 2:1-4

We’ve talked about the Great Commission for the last two weeks. God told us to go into all the world and preach the good news of God’s love and His grace. We talked about faith and being spiritual contributors, not spiritual consumers. The church does not exist for us, but we are the church, and we exist for the world. Today, we’re going to talk about the value of reaching people who are away from God.

After healing someone, Jesus called Matthew, a hated tax collector, to follow Him. Matthew had a party at his house and other tax collectors and sinners came. The Pharisees asked, “Why does Jesus eat with sinners?” Matthew 9:11-13. That is the call and priority of Jesus’ ministry: to reach and heal the sick in every way. He came for sinners. Mark 2:1-5 gives us the story that’s important for today’s message. How passionate are you about reaching lost people?

1. I believe God calls all of us who are Jesus followers to bear burdens, to care for those who are in a place of hurt or have a need in their lives.

2. God may call us to break some rules.

I’m not talking about breaking spiritual laws. Mark 2:4. The guys here decided that getting the man to Jesus was the priority, and whatever they needed to do to get him there, they would do. That is the kind of grit and determination that God is calling the church to have. May we, as a church, be committed, more than ever, to winning one more soul for Jesus! Our mission is “To Know Christ and to Make Him Known.”

Uncommon

John 4:31-32

Everything that God desired to accomplish in the days in which we live, He intended to do through the local church. Jesus had been teaching and ministering and the disciples thought that He was famished. John 4:31-32 “Meanwhile, His disciples urged Him, ‘Rabbi, eat something.’ But He said to them, ‘I have food to eat that you know nothing about.’” But Jesus said in John 4:34 “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work.”

The disciples were concerned about consumption, but Jesus was concerned with contributing. We who are followers of Jesus Christ understand that the church does not exist for us, but we are the church, and as the church, we exist to bring the light and the love of Jesus Christ to a darkened world.

1. God calls us to serve IN His Church.

He calls us to serve. He has given us gifts to be used in expanding the ministry and making it more effective. Romans 12:6-8 helps us see how God wants us to use our different gifts.

2. God calls us to serve AS His Church

Not only do we serve IN His Church, and we build one another up, but we serve AS His Church. Not a building, but the Body of Jesus Christ.

Matthew 5:14-16. We are saved by grace through faith and are to be followers of the Lord Jesus Christ. We are to do good works, meaning we are to let our light shine into the darkened world.

Uncommon

Hebrews 11:1

The promising foundation of faith in action is the power of prayer, and that comes from our personal relationship with Jesus Christ. What does God expect of us when it comes to faith? Scripture gives us two different stories of when Jesus was amazed. In the first, He was amazed at the lack of faith. Mark 6:5, 6. The second was when He was amazed at great faith. Matthew 8:6-10.

Let’s look at three faith-filled facts:

1. You cannot play it safe and please God. Hebrews 11:6.

If you can resolve every challenge and problem in your life, you don’t need faith. I’ve learned that failure is often the first step to discovering God and His miraculous power.

2. If you have a guarantee, you don’t have faith. Hebrews 11:1.

When you want a guarantee of your walk in faith, you’re going to be sadly disappointed. Sometimes you must let go of the unknown and take a step of faith, letting God have control. When you take the first step, He will reveal the second step.

3. To step toward your destiny, you must step away from your security.

If you must know all the components of how your miracle comes to pass, it won’t happen, because you’ll never need faith. Faith is closing your eyes, taking hold of the unseen Hand, and following along step-by-step as His Holy Spirit guides and anoints you. Hebrews 11:8. When we step away from our security, we will see the enemy subdued, the dream resurrected, and the fulfillment of God’s will in a supernatural way.

When God Moves, Move With Him

Habakkuk 2:2-3; 1 Kings 18:41-46

1. Trust What God Said.

2. Pray Past the “Nothing.”

3. Move With God.

A Reflection of Saintly Struggles

Jonah 4:1-11

Today, we continue our story of Jonah, and how he obeyed the Lord the second time. He went to Nineveh and preached, and the people repented. When God saw that they had turned from their evil ways, He had compassion and did not bring on them the destruction that He had threatened. One hundred and twenty thousand people surrendered to the eight-word message of Jonah, but Jonah had an unusual response. Jonah 4:1. He saw evil, and he became extremely angry. Jonah 4:2.

Do you pray when tragedy strikes, when you're hurting, and trials come your way? Is that the extent of your relationship with God? God desires to have more of a relationship with us. Jonah had resentment that had built. Unless we deal with resentment, it turns into hatred that will control and rule our lives, actions, and thoughts. Getting rid of that anger and resentment will bring freedom. Matthew 16:14-15; Jonah 4:4, 6, 7.

When God is the God of the vine, we give Him praise. But when He becomes God of the worm, we get crossways and don’t understand; we wither, becoming weakened.

Jonah 4:9-11. God gave Jonah a life lesson, sharing with him that forgiveness was not an option. If you desire forgiveness, you must forgive. If you expect to live a life free of encumbrance, you must get rid of resentment and bitterness.

Jonah

A Reflection of Saintly Struggles

Jonah 3:1

Jonah 3:1 “Then the Word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time.” Notice that the God of the universe is the only One who can bring eternal forgiveness to man, speaks to Jonah a second time. Based on what we know about Jonah so far, the question is, did he deserve a second chance? How many times has God given us grace – undeserved grace – a second and third time? What impressed the Lord was that Jonah said, “What I have vowed, I will make good; salvation or deliverance comes from the Lord.”

If we fail to listen to God the first time, how do we rationalize not answering? Do you think God is obligated to come to us a second time about anything? When we finally come to the realization that we should answer God and be obedient to Him, we are extremely grateful for His grace and mercy.

There may be things in your life that God is speaking to you about or telling you to do now. Do it before the enemy has a chance to wrestle your intellect, your emotions, and your spirit out of doing what God is asking you to do now.

If you’re looking at how you can control the situations and circumstances of your life, you will never enjoy the supernatural impact of what God can do in and through you. But when you come to the place that you declare, “God, You are Lord and King of my life,” you’ll begin to see something in the supernatural. God’s favor only comes because of God’s grace. But God’s grace comes when we answer His call and do what brings Him pleasure.

Jonah

A Reflection of Saintly Struggles

Jonah 2:1-3

Jonah was a prophet and had done many good things. Most of his life, he had been in the bounds of absolute obedience. But when God told Jonah to go to Nineveh, he boarded a ship which would take him 2500 miles away from where God wanted him to be. Jonah 1:17.

Jonah 2 finds him praying to the Lord “in his distress,” and the Lord answered him. He had not acknowledged God for some time, but now, in his distress, he called upon the Lord. Many call upon God only when they’re in deep trouble, and they get serious about their commitment and relationship in serving God. When Jonah cried out to God, God could have delivered him in a moment. But He worked with Jonah through different phases. Even when we believe that we are in the pit of despair, God is still doing things in our lives. Jonah 2:3-6. It doesn’t matter how far down you go, God can and will bring you out!

Maybe, when you look at your spiritual life and your commitment, you find it somewhat passive or lukewarm. In Jonah 2:8, he tells us not to make the mistake that he made. Remember that your life is not your own. You cannot live abstract and expect it to be pleasing to God. Jonah 2:9. 

Salvation, deliverance, and favor come from the Lord. But they come because of a repentant, humble heart that acknowledges the grace of God.

Jonah

A Reflection of Saintly Struggles

Jonah 1:1-3

Jonah’s journey is one of Resistance, Rebellion, Repentance, & Restoration. God told Jonah to go to the great city of Nineveh and preach; however, Jonah 1:3 says, “But Jonah ran away from the Lord.”

Observation #1: God spoke to Jonah.
John 1:1. The “Word” is not just language. It has power. We know that, from the beginning, Jehovah God spoke. Hebrews 4:12. The Word of God is omnipotent and needs no foundation other than Himself.

Observation #2: The Scripture says God spoke to Jonah; Jonah didn’t listen, and he headed to find a boat and sail in the wrong direction. 
Jonah 1:3. Why did he sail for Tarshish? He wanted to run from God. When you run from God, you lose focus. When you run toward God, you remain focused, and blessing comes as a part of that obedience.

Observation #3: Sometimes, when you’re running in the wrong direction, God may send a storm to grab your attention.
That’s exactly what he did with Jonah. Jonah 1:4, 9, 12.

Observation #4: Jonah experienced a nightmare instead of a dream. Jonah 1:17. You might be in a situation right now, and it looks like the only leverage you have is a nightmare. Sometimes, God sends a storm to get your attention, and sometimes, He’s just quiet. When it looks like you’re in the middle of a nightmare, keep your eyes open and your ears tuned. Out of the nightmare, God can bring a miracle!

Freedom Still Rings

1 Kings 19:14, 18; 2 Chronicles 7:14-16

1. Freedom still rings through the cross. Galatians 6:14.

The cross is -

• a symbol of the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18.
• a place of reconciliation between God and man. Ephesians 2:16(a).
• a place of defeat for Satan. Ephesians 2:16(b).
• a symbol of the destruction of God’s enemies. Philippians 3:18, 19.
• a symbol of peace to mankind. Colossians 1:19, 20.

2. Freedom still rings through the Word of God.

Matthew 24:34, 35. Jesus said freedom will always ring through the Word of God, which

• is a probing instrument. Hebrews 4:12.
• is a weapon of defense. Ephesians 6:17.
• has saving power. Romans 1:16.
• is a tool-destroying error. Jeremiah 23:29.
• devours darkness. Jeremiah 5:14.

3. Freedom still rings through the Church of Jesus Christ.

Matthew 16:18 (b); 1 Kings 19:18.

• The church is a growing church. Acts 2:47.
• The church is the Bride of Christ. Revelation 21:2.
• The church is a conquering church. Matthew 16:18. Ephesians 1:22; John 3:29.

The Ultimate Adventure

Luke 9:23-27

Often, we seem to count the losses and sacrifices we make to follow the Lord. That’s because we look at it from the standpoint of rules and lists, as opposed to a relationship. The ultimate adventure in following the Lord is knowing that the journey will take us to a place beyond our imagination. It’s sometimes following and not necessarily understanding, but that’s the beauty of a relationship. In following Christ, He desires our entire heart.

At the end of Jesus’ ministry, it was apparent that His disciples did not understand. He saw their dilemma and gave them the proper perspective of what it meant to follow Him. Following Christ, once we receive salvation, does cost. But refusing to follow Christ will eventually cost you everything. Jesus says, “Follow Me and your life won’t lose its meaning.” Jesus taught the disciples that when He left, it wasn’t the end, but the beginning. Luke 9:23. He states the absolute truth and doesn’t hide anything. He tells them that, in a relationship, He wants everything.

In their relationship with God, many people are anxious because they are stubborn instead of simply flowing with the divine will of God. Human nature desires its own way. But God’s Word, through Jesus, gives us a warning: “If you try to preserve your life, if you do it your way and you fail to listen to Me, you will lose your life every single time.” Luke 9:25, 26.

Jesus is asking us to do the same as He asked His disciples. “If you’re going to come after Me, deny yourself and follow Me.”

America is Blessed!

Psalm 33:10-22

America is blessed because of God’s favor that we have received. Our forefathers hungered for a government to be ruled by the people and for the people. They wanted a nation where they would be able to seek God on a personal level, without fear of governmental involvement.

1. There is only one God. Psalm 33:12.

We were to be known as a Christian nation. Our pledge says, “One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” 

David said, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” This means “Happy is the nation where God Jehovah is the spiritual passion of the people.” Exodus 20:1-6.

2. Spirit is better than strength. Psalm 33:16.

David reminded us of the greatness and power of God. Zechariah 4:6(b). But we have squelched the opportunities for God’s Spirit to be experienced. We have more strength in America than ever, but what we must have is the power of the Holy Spirit in our nation. Obadiah 3; Proverbs 28:26; Hosea 10:13; 1 Corinthians 10:12.

3. There is hope for the future. Psalm 33:20-21.

2 Chronicles 7:14; Luke 4:18; 2 Corinthians 3:16-18. As an American, I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, of being called a Christian, of the old, rugged cross, or of  declaring there is hope for America. There is one God; His 

name is God Jehovah!

The Ultimate Adventure

Matthew 26:6-16

Competing agendas, in any relationship, lead to one thing – conflict. What does that look like when it comes to our relationship with God? The ultimate adventure is the strong desire to follow the Lord Jesus Christ – no competing agenda, just simply walking by faith. In a loving relationship, when there is no competing agenda, there is unconditional love. That’s God’s love for you and me. When we truly decide to follow Jesus, we’ll lay down our agenda. The clash of agendas will cease, and we will realize that we want to follow Jesus because we love Him.

Matthew 26 is the story of when Jesus was home in Bethany, and a woman came to Him with an alabaster jar, a very expensive perfume. Judas learned that you can’t bypass the heart and will of God. Judas was determined to have it his way. Matthew 27:3-4.

Here are three things to learn from Judas’ story:

1. When you say “No” to Jesus, you are saying to Him that you are responsible for the outcome of the journey, that you will walk without His presence.
2. When you say “No” to God and you allow your agenda to clash with His agenda, you move toward a life of destruction.
3. When your agenda clashes with God’s agenda, and you believe that you know more about what your life needs and where you need to go than God does, and you begin to take it into your own hands, it is just a matter of time before you will be back to where you left off.

Matthew 27:9-10. You cannot get away from God’s love!

The Ultimate Adventure

Luke 5-11

Before Jesus’ life and ministry, there was no Christianity. He stepped forward as a bridge between the Jewish culture and the faith of Christianity, and He became the ultimate sacrifice. In following Christ, we have the privilege of being part of His family.

Luke 5:1-5. Jesus was teaching, and the crowds grew until they became so great that He asked Peter to use his boat. In Luke 5:4, Jesus was suggesting that Peter throw his nets down. Peter’s response was based on what he had heard and learned, and on how he felt when he listened to Jesus teach. He sensed hope in Jesus’ words and that they spoke life.

The story is about people with varying levels of faith. What God says to us is, “Wherever you are, take the next step.” It’s only when you take the next step that you realize how powerful the ultimate adventure really is. Everything that’s brought joy and happiness to your life came because of some action that involved faith.

Behind every request in the ultimate adventure of following the Lord, there is something that hangs in the balance, something that God says is bigger than you can imagine. If you commit to the journey, God will nudge you from a heart of love to take faith-based steps. When you take those steps of faith, God commits Himself to the outcome of the journey. He’s asking you to take the next step today. Let’s be certain that we respond as Peter did and then wait and see what God will do through us. That’s the ultimate adventure!

The Ultimate Adventure

Matthew 9:9-13

Growing up in the church, many heard more about what you couldn’t do and what God was against than what you could do and what God was for. It seemed it had to do with the rules. In this series, we’ll talk about relationships over rules. Serving God is not rule-driven, but rather, relationship-building. The main thing is that you’re in love with the Lord Jesus Christ, and you desire to follow Him. Here are four important things regarding the simple request to “Follow Me.”

1. The open invitation is to sinners.

  It doesn’t matter who you are or what you’ve done. 

 Jesus says to you now, “Follow Me.”

2. The invitation to follow Jesus is an invitation to a relationship.

  There are two great forces in life – love and rejection. Love wins over  

  rejection every time. When you’re in a love relationship, both people 

  change, and the changes draw them closer to one another.

3. An open invitation to follow Jesus is a resounding invitation to those who have become a bit religious and “churchified.”

  Jesus says, “Follow Me,” and He challenges you to get out of your 

  comfort zone. When you get to the place where you’re not in the 

  “Follow Me” mode, apathy will come in, excuses will arise, and the   

  ultimate adventure, the joy that serving God brings, will ultimately die.

4. An open invitation is an invitation to the ultimate adventure.

  Following Jesus will bring rewards beyond your imagination!

Belief Matters

Deuteronomy 30:15 (TEV)

Sin is so powerful and lethal to the spirit-man that it will cause you to spend eternity in hell unless you have chosen to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Why hasn’t the world been destroyed already?

1. To give us a choice. Deuteronomy 30:15 (TEV); Ecclesiastes 3:17 (LB).
2. To show our need for a Savior. 

Ecclesiastes 3:18 (NLT); Romans 7:19 (NLT).

3. To demonstrate God’s grace. 2 Peter 3:9 (NLT).

Once you realize you are the only one who can choose to accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, and that He is the answer to this broken world, here are four ways to respond:

1. Receive God’s grace daily. Romans 5:17 (TEV).
2. Remember this place is temporary; it’s not permanent. 

Live your life as if it could be over when you take your next breath. 

Psalm 119:19 (TEV); Hebrews 13:14 (LB).

3. Reject man-made solutions.

This world is broken, sinful, and evil. But God has a plan to redeem you and reverse your human, temporary body to an eternal body. 

Jeremiah 2:13 (NLT). 

4. Reach out with God’s love. 

Philippians 2:15 (Message); 1 Thessalonians 4:16 (NIV). As a church, and as believers, we must respond with exuberance and passion to stand in the gap for anyone we know, to be certain that they make it to heaven!

Belief Matters

Ecclesiastes 7:20 (NLT)

How did the world get so messed up?

1. We’ve all sinned. Romans 5:12; Ecclesiastes 7:20; 1 John 1:8. 

  Here are three kinds of wrongdoings:

1. Sin. Romans 3:23.
2. Transgressions. Transgression is the exact opposite of the word sin. Sin says you’re falling short, and transgression says you’re going past.
3. Iniquity. Iniquity is an attitude of the heart. It’s the basic disposition to do “my own thing,” or to wander. 

       Isaiah 53:6; Psalm 32:5.

Our first nature is human nature. We inherited a natural tendency to do our own thing. Romans 8:7.

We learn to sin from the people around us. Culture will also pull you down. Sin and Satan use culture to get you to do the wrong thing. Romans 12:2.

2. We live in a fallen world. 

  Here are five truths that are the result of living in a fallen world:

1. Natural disasters and deformities. Romans 8:20; 22.
2. Physical decay and death. 2 Corinthians 4:16.
3. Emotional distress and disappointment. Job 6:20; Romans 7:18.
4. Relational distance and discord. Genesis 3:7.
5. Spiritual discontent and darkness. 

       Job 6:18; Ephesians 4:18; Lamentations 3:17-20.

God is still in control!

Women…the Best!

Mark 14:1-9

Proverbs 31:10 (The Message) says, “A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds.” It also says, “Charm can mislead, and beauty fades. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who 

lives in the fear of God. Give her everything she deserves. Adorn her life 

with praises.”

1. Love is more important than possessions. Mark 14:3. When God created woman, He created His most unique creation.
   Women
   • do not desire possessions. They desire opportunities to express love.
   • do not desire control. They desire respect.
   • are not ego maniacs. They desire to be appreciated and cared for.
   • do not desire attention alone. They desire understanding.
   • do not desire to lead. They desire to be led and loved for who they are.
   God has called males to be spiritual leaders.
2. Her eyes look into the soul. Mark 14:6.
   One of the beauties of women is their sensitivity to others’ needs. Though men are sometimes critical of a woman’s sensitivity, this world would be a very dull place without them.
3. Her deeds will testify. Mark 14:9.
   Proverbs 31 says of the godly woman: 

• Her children respect and bless her.
• Her husband joins in with words of praise.

Proverbs 31:10 (NIV) “A wife of noble character who can find? 
She is worth far more than rubies.”

Belief Matters

John 8:32

Let’s look at several things that will help us identify what truth is. John 7:17.

1. We can know what’s true through creation.

Romans 1:20; Romans 1:19 (Message).

2. We can know what’s true through conscience.

Romans 2:14-15 (CEV). The Bible says, “The Lord gave us a mind and conscience. We cannot hide from ourselves.”

3. We can know what’s true through consideration.

Proverbs 14:15 (NCV). 

How can you tell if someone is telling the truth?

• Examine their lifestyle. Matthew 7; John 14.
• The Holy Spirit in you will guide you.

4. We can know what’s true through God’s commandments. 

2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT).

5. We can know what’s true through Christ.

Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but by Me.” John 3:33 (NLT).

Once you’ve discovered the truth, what do you do with it?

1. Believe it.
2. Do it.
3. Stand for it.
4. Spread it.

Jesus’ last directive was to go into all the world and preach and teach the gospel. Titus 2:7 “Let everything you do reflect your love of the truth, and the fact that you were in dead earnest about it.”

Belief Matters

John 8:32

What is the cause of the moral decline in our culture today? Let’s call it Truth Decay. Today, many people claim they don’t even know the difference between right and wrong.

Signs of “TRUTH DECAY”

1. Immaturity. Ephesians 4:14 (NLT)

Immaturity happens when we give up on truth and value tolerance over it.

2. Immorality. Ephesians 4:19 (NLT)

Immorality means no morals. Judges 21:25; Proverbs 14:9 (Message).

3. Unreality. 2 Thessalonians 2:12 (Message)

When people stop believing in truth, they will believe in anything.

4. Illegality. Proverbs 29:18 (LB)

If society says there’s no standard of right or wrong, then everything can be considered legal. 

5. Idolatry. Romans 1:25 (NLT)

When we don’t know right from wrong or the truth, our priorities and values get out of line. Romans 1:25 (NLT).

6. Injustice. Isaiah 59:14 (NLT)

When there’s no standard for right and wrong, no truths, then you can get away with anything. Isaiah 59:14 (NLT).

How do we reverse the moral decline? It will be because born-again Christians, who are called to be salt and light, stand for truth in a postmodern “anything goes” society. 

Belief Matters

Luke 12:31 (NLT)

What is a worldview? A worldview is the set of beliefs I build my life on. Your worldview determines your choices, your relationships, your success or failure, and your motivation for how you will live life. 2 Corinthians 5:17. Let’s look at several popular worldviews in our culture today:

1. The one with the most toys wins. Materialism. Luke 12:15 (NIV).
2. I have to think of me first. Individualism. Matthew 16:25 (NLT).
3. Do whatever feels good. Hedonism. Proverbs 21:17 (Message).
4. Whatever works for you. Pragmatism. Proverbs 14:12.
5. God doesn’t exist. Naturalism. Romans 1:20-22 (CEV).
6. You are your own God. Humanism. Romans 1:25.
7. God made me for His purposes. Theism. Colossians 1:16 (Message). 

Why does it matter what I believe? 

Proverbs 4:23 (TEV); Proverbs 29:18 (Message).

How can I strengthen my worldview?

• Learn what is true. Proverbs 23:23 (NCV)
• Discern what is false. 1 John 4:1 (Message)
• Turn from the world to the Word. Romans 12:2; Proverbs 15:14 (NLT).
• Concern yourself with God’s agenda. Luke 12:31 (NLT).

Proclaim He is Risen

Matthew 28:1-20

Today is the most exciting day for the church of the Lord Jesus Christ! We declare, “Jesus Christ – He’s alive!” He’s alive according to Scripture, biblical history, historical testimony, archaeology, and our own personal experience.

1. The future. Matthew 28:2.

Our text shares the true account of what happened on the day of Jesus’ resurrection; however, it had been foretold by many others beforehand. The resurrection was foretold in Psalm 16:10. 

2. The mystery. Matthew 28:6.

The angel saw Mary’s surprise and said, “I know you seek Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here. He is risen.” Matthew 27:66. Now, according to the testimony of friends, Roman guards, and the angel of the Lord, Jesus, who was dead, now is alive. 

John 20:6, 7; Ephesians 3:2-5.

3. The proclamation. Matthew 28:7-8.

What was the purpose of proclaiming Jesus’ resurrection to 

the others?

• It revealed the truth of God’s Word.
• It validated His life and ministry.
• It brought hope to the hopeless.
• It fulfilled the promise of God.
• It called the doubters into accountability.
• It revealed the power of God’s love and His plan of redemption.

Because of the resurrection, we can proclaim, 

“Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.”

Satan’s Plan Failed

Matthew 20:17-19; 21:1-11

Our text reveals the action God is taking to serve notice on the enemy of our souls that his position is about to change, his hold on death is about to be loosed, and his dominion over hopelessness is ending. 

1. Satan’s evil desire. Matthew 20:18, 19. 

Jesus is making His move into Jerusalem against the advice and counsel of His disciples. It is a few days away from the time when God, through Jesus, will take control of the keys to death, hell, and the grave. The intentions of the devil are to possess and control, and to tempt and destroy. He blinds people to Jesus’ love. 

2 Corinthians 4:4. However, God’s intention was to resist him. 

1 Peter 5:8.

2. Supernatural fulfillment. Matthew 21:4, 5.

Thousands of Jews have come to celebrate the Passover Feast, and many did not see the significance of what was happening before their eyes. 1 John 2:16. Jesus’ entry served notice that nothing in His life would happen by chance. All God does is by divine direction and intention.

3. Jesus…the Savior. Matthew 21:10, 11. 

As Jesus rode into Jerusalem, Scripture declares that the whole city was stirred. The crowds knew of His acts and His miracles. Matthew 16:13, 16. Jesus was serving notice upon those who did not know who He was. He was King, by virtue of His position as God. But here on earth, He was about to prove His power and authority by overcoming death. Satan’s plan failed!

Total Abandonment

Ezekiel 47:1-9

Ezekiel shares a wonderful illustration of how God works among His people, and how people usually respond to the work of the Holy Spirit.

1. The ankle, the step of interest. Ezekiel 47:3.

We are apprehensive about change, especially if it requires stepping by faith. Luke 18:18; Luke 18:23.

2. The knee, the step of reckless abandonment. 

Ezekiel 47:4(a); Matthew 14:29. When we decide to abandon recklessly, then we are willing to forsake security, are asking for something more, and going after it, denying logic and moving by faith, and placing the spirit man in control. 

3. The loin, the step of anxious desire. Ezekiel 47:4(b). 

When we take the step of anxious desire, we will break through barriers, are prepared to sacrifice, have forsaken our pride, are hungry and will eat anything, and are not afraid; meeting the goal is the quest. Revelation 22:17.

4. Swim, the step of active faith. Ezekiel 47:5.

When we are committed, we have given our rights, our authority, and our will to someone else. Acts 2:2,3; Revelation 22:1, 2.

• Let’s inquire and go deeper.
• Let’s become reckless with tradition and security.
• Let’s anticipate the supernatural. 
• Let’s become obligated to swim in the Holy Spirit.

Don’t Waste God’s Gift

Ephesians 5:15-17

Our walk with God is two-fold:

• Our relationship with God.
• Our relationship with others, which reveals our relationship with God.

1. What does God desire of me? My whole life. Romans 6:13.

God desires every part of your being. 

Deuteronomy 10:12; Matthew 6:24; Luke 14:18-20.

2. What does it take? Discipline.

Proverbs 10:17(a); 1 Timothy 4:7; Hebrews 12:1; Luke 10:40-42; Philippians 2:13. You cannot be a disciple without discipline.

3. Why should I do it? The Cross. 2 Corinthians 5:15.

Why should I discipline myself to grow spiritually? Jesus gave His life, and if we accept Him as Savior, He expects our lives completely. Ephesians 1:7; Romans 12:1; 2 Corinthians 6:1.

God’s Word does not lie or fail:

• If we discover our purpose in Christ,
• If we discipline ourselves for spiritual growth,
• we will see God’s kingdom exposed and expanded, and
• hundreds will come to know the Lord, and their eternal destinies will change.

Habakkuk 3:2 “Lord, I have heard the news about You; I am amazed at what You have done. Lord, do great things once again in our time; make those things happen again in our own days.”

God’s Money – God’s Way

Leviticus 27:30

Leviticus 27:30 “A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord.” Giving the tithe is not correct; it should be returning the tithe. If we use the term giving the tithe, we are assuming that we own it, or that it’s ours. You are a steward over something very important, over God’s blessing and favor in your life, and over your personal finances. God owns everything, but He trusts you, as His child, to manage the resources that He has given to you. He trusts you to do what He says in managing all your resources.

There’s a problem with keeping or borrowing the tithe. The Bible says a borrower is a servant. We should be slaves to nothing except the Lord Jesus Christ. Malachi 3:8-9. The Scripture says that if you fail to return the tithe, you are embezzling from God. When we fail to return the tithe, we’re trading the blessings that God wants to pour out on our lives for 10%. Haggai 1:6. When you fail to return what belongs to God, He says that which you keep will not receive His favor. It’s cursed. 

Malachi 3:11-12. Ninety percent with God’s favor will do more than 100% will do without God’s favor or blessing. When you’re faithful to God in the little things, He will bless you in ways that you never thought possible. Matthew 23:23. When you’re totally committed to God, you don’t just say, “Take the tithe, Lord.” You say, “Take all of me. I don’t want to hold anything back. 
I want You to be the Lord.”

God’s Money – God’s Way

Luke 10:33-35

Giving and being generous are different. Giving is an action, but generosity is a mindset. The Bible is filled with passages about giving. “For God so loved the world that He gave…”

1. Spontaneous giving.
2. Strategic giving.
3. Sacrificial giving.

When we give spontaneously, it’s often because we are moved with compassion. We don’t plan it; we don’t budget for it; we give when we feel it, see it, and believe we need to act. Luke 10:33-35.

We give strategically when our convictions guide us. That’s not emotional giving; that’s intentional giving. We don’t give because we feel it; we give because we know it’s what God asks us to do. We’re asked to give strategically out of love. Malachi 3:10; Leviticus 27:30.

The best example of sacrificial giving is found in John 3:16. Sacrificial giving is not comfortable, and it’s seldom convenient. It’s not giving what’s easy; it’s giving what costs. Mark 12:41-44.

Spontaneous giving moves our hearts.

Strategic giving shapes our lives.

Sacrificial giving moves God’s heart and brings the 

abundance of God’s favor.

God’s Money – God’s Way

Malachi 3:10

Genesis 28:21-22; Leviticus 27:30; Deuteronomy 14:22. Tithing is returning the first 10% of what God entrusts to us, worshiping Him with our first and our best. Tithing is not earning salvation, appeasing a guilty conscience, or buying God’s blessings. Ephesians 2:8-9. Here are five reasons why tithing is crucial:

1. Tithing teaches me to put God first. 

Deuteronomy 14:23; Exodus 23:19.

2. Tithing reminds me that God is my source.

Every time you put God first, you’re acknowledging that He is your source. 1 Chronicles 29:14.

3. Jesus told me to tithe.

Malachi 3:10. When you’re faithful to God and sacrifice, you’ve given your heart to the Lord and begin to live by His disciplines and principles, you prepare yourself for supernatural intervention in many areas. 

4. Tithing breaks my fear and builds my faith.

Malachi 3:10. When you’re faithful to God and sacrifice, you’ve given your heart to the Lord and begin to live by His disciplines and principles, you prepare yourself for supernatural intervention in many areas. 

5. Tithing connects my resources to eternal impact. 

Paul says that when you honor God with your first fruits, other blessings will come into your life. Not just financially, but in your health, marriage, and ability to parent. Everything that has meaning in your life will be enriched because you have proven to God that you are faithful. 2 Corinthians 9:11. 

God can do more with 90% and His blessings than we can do with 100% on our own!

Determine to Be in God’s Will

Acts 9:1-6, 15, 20, 21

Scriptures give us numerous examples of people who failed to heed God’s desire and direction for their lives. Satan will often lie to us and declare that knowing the will of God is difficult, but that is not true. Psalm 119:105; Psalm 40:8. 

We can know the will of God. 

How do you determine God’s will?

1. Know and listen to the voice of God. Acts 9:4, 5.
God has the power to speak to us and to get our attention:

• His voice is quiet and still. 1 Kings 19:12.
• His voice is powerful. Psalm 29:4.
• His voice is known by the believer. John 10:4.

How does He speak to our hearts?

1. Through His Spirit. Revelation 3:20.
2. Through His Word. Hebrews 4:12.
3. Through counsel of others. Proverbs 11:14.
4. Through circumstances. Revelation 3:7.

2. Evaluate the eternal compared to the temporal. Acts 9:15. 

God directs us through His Word. 

Romans 12:2; Philippians 4:7-9.

3. Be sure it glorifies God. Acts 9:20.
When we hear God’s voice, and we determine that it is of eternal value, then ask the question, “Will it glorify God?” 

John 1:26, 27, 29; John 3:30; Acts 26:19-22. 

Listen to God’s will. 

Psalm 143:10; Ephesians 6:6.

You can know the will of God, and you can know it now!
 

Transformed

Making the Changes that Matter Most

Psalm 5:3 (NCV)

The most remarkable thing that prayer does is change you. How you start your day influences the remainder of your day. The most important part of the day is your time alone with God.

• Read God’s Word.
• Be quiet before God.
• Talk with God.
• Review my day and goals with God.

The Lord’s Prayer is our model.

1. The Prayer of Connection.

Think about how much God loves you.

2. The Prayer of Surrender.

Offer my life to be used for His purpose today.

3. The Prayer of Trust.

Tell God I’m expecting Him to meet all my needs.

4. The Prayer of Forgiveness.

Receive God’s forgiveness and release others.

5. The Prayer of Protection.

Ask God for strength to reach my goals.

6. The Prayer of Victory.

Thank God for ultimate victory.

Transformed

Making the Changes that Matter Most

Romans 12:1

What does it take to really change?

1. DEDICATION: Commit my body to God.

Romans 12:1 (NIV). Offering your body as a spiritual act of worship, there are things we should do:

1. Cleanse your body. 2 Corinthians 7:1.
2. Care for your body. Ephesians 5:29.
3. Control your body. 1 Thessalonians 4:4.
4. CONCENTRATION: Refocus my mind.

Romans 12:2 (NIV). Stop focusing on things that aren’t good for you and start focusing on things that are good for you.

3. EVALUATION: Humbly assess my current state.

Romans 12:3 (NIV). If you pretend to have it all together, you’ll never really desire to identify a challenge or a problem in your life.

4. COOPERATION: Get group support.

Romans 12:4-5 (NLT). Consistent change is never made alone. That’s how God wired us.

5. AFFIRMATION: Fill my life with love.

Romans 12:9-10 (NLT). Love is the most powerful force in the world. If I want lasting change in my life, I must fill it with love.

6. MOTIVATION: Nurture my enthusiasm.

Romans 12:11-12 (NIV). Enthusiasm means, “I am in God.” You can be joyful in hope because you are tied to Almighty God, and He wins in the end! 

Transformed

Making the Changes that Matter Most

Jeremiah 29:11

Why I Need to Set Personal Goals

1. Goal setting is a spiritual discipline. 

Ephesians 1:10 (GW)

2. Goals focus my energy.

1 Corinthians 9:26 (NCV); Ephesians 5:16 (NLT)

3. Goals stretch my faith.

Matthew 9:29 (NIV); Romans 14:23 (NIV)

4. Goals build my character.

Philippians 3:12 (TEV); Ephesians 4:13 (CEV)

5. Goals give me hope.

Job 6:11 (NLT); Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

What Kind of Goal Does God Bless?

1. It brings glory to God.  

1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV); 2 Corinthians 5:9 (NIV)

2. It is motivated by love.

1 Corinthians 16:14 (NLT); 1 Corinthians 14:1 (NLT)

3. It fulfills one of God’s purposes.

Romans 6:13; 1 Corinthians 9:26 (NLT)

4. It is set in faith.

Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)

5. Godly goals are achieved with God’s power.

Proverbs 16:9 (MSG); Zechariah 4:6 (NCV); Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT)

Transformed

Making the Changes that Matter Most - Numbers 13:25-26

What Happens When I Look at My Future with Eyes of Fear?

1. I get stressed by conflicting information. 
   Numbers 13:27-28
2. I develop a scarcity mentality.
   Numbers 13:29
3. I fulfill my self-defeating prophecies.
   Numbers 13:31
4. I infect others with my negativity.
   Numbers 13:32
5. I see myself as inadequate for my challenges.
   Numbers 13:32-33
6. I make myself miserable.
   Numbers 14:1-2. Crying, Complaining, Second-Guessing.

The antidote: Learn to look with faith. 
Numbers 13:30; John 11:40

How Do I Get Eyes of Faith?

1. You invite Jesus into every room of your life.
   John 3:3
2. You take the first step of faith in water baptism.
   Colossians 2:12.
3. You do whatever God tells you to do.
   Numbers 14:6-9

Beat the Attitude Challenge

Philippians 3:7-14

An attitude is a chosen feeling or emotion about a fact or a state of mind.

1. My attitude greatly determines my success. Philippians 3:7.
Paul was sold out to God spiritually, materially, emotionally, and mentally. Unrealized expectations, stress, financial lack or pressure, relational challenges, misunderstandings, and misplaced priorities can destroy you and others if your attitude is negative. All are part of life. 
Philippians 4:6. Christ, and to please Him, must be our focus for a healthy attitude.

2. My attitude can turn my problems into blessings. Philippians 3:8, 9.
When you are in Christ and trying to remain positive, remember that your problem is never your problem. Matthew 11:28. 

There are three phases to any challenge:
1. Consensus – This is a challenge.
2. Critique – What went wrong?
3. Choice – With my will, I choose an attitude – positive or negative. Romans 8:28, 31.

4. My attitude, not my achievements, brings me happiness. Philippians 3:14; Philippians 4:4, 8, 9, 11, 13.

• You control your success by your attitude.
• You can turn your problem into a blessing.
• Your achievements will fade, but only in the Lord will true happiness be found.

Today Could Be the Day

John 5:1-9

Our text deals with a very real situation in a person’s life, someone who had every right to be bitter and could have given up.

1. Lameness – to be or not to be. John 5:4.

God never promised us that life would be fair. He did promise us that He would be just. 1 Corinthians 13:12; John 16:12; Proverbs 27:1; Matthew 6:33, 34.

2. Faith sees what I can’t see. John 5:5.

Far too many people decide to give up before God moves on their behalf. Satan lies to them, and they give up. How does he do it?

- Discouragement eliminates motivation.

- Frustration causes doubt to enter the thinking process, believing it will not happen.

3. Move as God wills. John 5:8, 9.

When Jesus saw that this man had persevered and was not bitter, it touched His heart. Everyone around the pool had a need, but this man had the heart for a miracle. Many people never get what they need from God because they are not prepared for what He has for them when He arrives. 

Scripture said that when the man was made whole, he took up his bed and walked. What caused this to happen? It was one decision at a time that said, “There is hope, and today may be the day.”

A Chaotic Christmas

Jesus

Luke 2:4-7

This series speaks about Joseph in a situation with more questions than answers, and how he kept his head and his faith. Then it speaks about Mary’s embarrassment when those around her learned she was pregnant and not married. Her answer to their questions was, “The Holy Spirit came upon me.” When we look at the lives of Joseph and Mary, we see the tremendous price they paid to remain true to their convictions to honor and serve Jehovah. For the love of God to bring a solution to man’s dilemma, someone needed to be obedient, and Jesus was that person. Philippians 2:6-8; John 1:14.

Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, the moment that a member of the triune God became flesh. To think that God, the second person of the Trinity, was born as a baby, as flesh in the most horrible conditions that one could imagine, is unbelievably chaotic. The power of Christmas is that Jesus loved so much that He would leave heaven to come to earth. 1 Corinthians 2:9. This is the most dramatic story of redemption and rescue ever told. 

At Christmas, we celebrate the beginning. When Jesus hung on that cross, knowing no sin, He took the weight and sins of the world and bore them on the cross. We can live a life that says, “Jesus is the reason for the season.” It is hope, and that hope is found in Jesus Christ! 

A Chaotic Christmas

Mary

Luke 1:38

Mary is our focus today. She is about 15 years old, from a tiny town, and her world is about to be turned upside down. Luke 1:28-32. Mary was greatly troubled. Luke 1:35 says, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you.” And then Mary states in Luke 1:38, “I am the Lord’s servant,” meaning whatever God asks me to do, and whatever price I must pay, count me in.

When things get chaotic in life, it pays to remember that our lives are not our own. We should remember whose family we belong to – the family of God. Luke 1:46-55.

The culture we live in today is, far too often, blind to the reality of Christmas. But some circumstances and events bring out our courage and strength. In every situation where complications exceed our belief and control, God gives us signs of comfort, and we recognize that only He can bring such peace. 

The complications of becoming pregnant and giving birth to Jesus were greater than the physical abilities of any person; however, Mary was anointed of God, and her heart was one of committed service. Every time God enables us, or allows us, to walk through a chaotic situation, it’s because He already knows our heart. He understands what our response will be, what our behavior will be, and the depth of our desire. 

Remember, you were chosen to be blessed!

A Chaotic Christmas

Joseph

Matthew 1:18-25

Christmas can be one of the most exciting times of the year. It can also be a time of disappointment, unhappiness, and depression. As Christians, it is a joyful time because we remember to keep the focus on why we celebrate. It’s about the birth of Jesus Christ!

Christmas can be chaotic, even without any unfortunate circumstances. As Christ followers, we have a hope to lean on when the holidays seem to rob us of the joy they could bring.

Joseph experienced a very chaotic Christmas. Matthew 1:18-23. 

His life was relatively ordinary until God’s plans threw a wrench into his relationship with Mary. While Joseph was sleeping, an angel appeared to him and stated that Mary had conceived a child from the Holy Spirit. The angel had given Joseph two clear directives. Joseph remembered the teachings and prophecies of those years ago. Isaiah shouted the prophecy in Isaiah 7:14, which opened the door for Joseph to comprehend what seemed impossible, chaotic, and out of the ordinary. The truth rested on what he remembered from the teachings. He not only kept his head and his faith, but he also obeyed what he was told to do.

When life becomes challenging and chaotic, we remember why we celebrate Christmas. In this time of great joy and chaotic mess, make fresh, new commitments to Jesus Christ. Remember that we celebrate because of the birth of Jesus Christ!

Living the Dream

John 10:10 (The Message)

Our key text says that God will enable us to live life to the fullest if we are careful not to let the enemy steal or destroy that which God has given us. It’s amazing how God directs us and gives us purpose.

Don’t forget the power of love. Revelation 2:4-5.

Love is the one thing that enables us to build a God-fulfilled life. Living the life is a willful decision to love God with all your heart, mind, soul, and spirit. If you do that, the enemy will find it difficult to draw you away from your relationship with God.

Don’t forget the power of integrity. Mark 12:30.

Integrity is simply integrating what you say you believe into your actions. If you’re going to live the life in a way that really brings pleasure and praise to God, He has to be integrated into every segment of your life – holding nothing back.

Don’t forget the power of forgiveness. Job 5:2.

Nothing will steal the joy of the Lord like unforgiveness. If you’re going to live the life, live the life that’s willing to practice forgiveness every single day.

Don’t forget the power of enthusiasm. Colossians 3:23.

If God resides within us, then how can we be anything less than enthusiastic about the privilege of God abiding in us? Live life like there is no tomorrow, and plan as if we have all of eternity to enjoy God’s presence.

Our God Reigns

Exodus 14:1-31

God will not give us a command or direction and then forsake us in pursuing that task. However, we must be aware that Satan will never give up easily.

1. God’s plan will be fulfilled. Exodus 14:3, 4.

When the people of God left their place of security and started on their journey, God manifested His presence. He wanted them to feel and to see His presence.

2. Someone must declare the victory. Exodus 14:13, 14.

In the pursuit of any promise, there will be many valley experiences and many mountaintop experiences. Emotions will run from one extreme to another. In every situation, we must stop crying, make a decision, move forward with all the faith we have, and trust God for the results. Declaring the victory will move you to the next level of God’s plan of advancement.

3. The results will astound you. Exodus 14:21, 22.

Once Moses declared the victory, he was ready for action. Exodus 14:30, 31.

• God is on His throne.
• He is in the business of manipulating the enemy.
• He will fulfill His plan.
• We need to stand firm and believe God.
• He will perform the supernatural…sometimes despite us!

The Church Unleashed

Acts 2:46-47

Harvard University released a study that said 36% of Americans have ongoing feelings of loneliness, isolation, and a desire to be loved. They are missing positive relationships. In Genesis 2:18, 22, God said, “It’s not good for a man to be alone. I’ll make a helper who is just right for him… The Lord made a woman from the rib, and He brought her to the man.”

There are three distinct personalities in the Godhead, and we call them the Trinity:

• The Father, who is the Creator.
• The Son, who is the Redeemer.
• The Holy Spirit, who the Bible says is the Comforter.

God created us never to be lonely, but to enjoy fellowship. The Early Church didn’t meet once a week; they met every day, realizing their need for one another. They could not have been spiritually strong, victorious, and overcome temptation without being connected to the family of God in the Church.

To stand up against the wiles of evil, the Church must be strong, even as they were in Acts 2. Philippians 1:7. The Bible says, “If two or three gather in My Name, I will be there.” Our mission statement, “To know Christ and to make Him known,” coincides with our mission to reach lost people with the Gospel and then disciple them for service to the Lord. The mission of our Lord is described in Isaiah 61:1, and His mission is our mission. If you’re bound by sin, become unleashed in the freedom that comes in Jesus Christ. Become unleashed from selfishness and personal ambition and accept the mission of Jesus Christ!

The Church Unleashed

Mark 2:1-12

Mark 2:17 “It is not the healthy who need a doctor; it’s those who are sick.” The message of the church is “I have not come to call the righteous, but I have come to call the sinners.” That was Jesus’ mission.

Jesus had returned to His headquarters and settled for His ministry in Capernaum. He was teaching a very large group of people when some men came, bringing to Him a paralyzed man. Because they were unable to take him inside, they cut a hole in the roof and lowered him down in front of Jesus.

Let’s look at five different types of individuals who were probably present that day:

1. Those in need.
2. Those who care.
3. Those who are preoccupied.
4. Those who are critical. Mark 2:6.
5. Those who are changed by the mercy and grace of God.

The power of God has met their needs. The mercy and grace of God have redeemed them.

The Bible says, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old is gone and everything is now new.”

The church is an intensive care unit where we say, “However you are, in whatever condition, come in and you’ll find the answer, the miracle, the person whose name is Jesus Christ.”

The Church Unleashed

Acts 2:42-47

Victory Church began more than 36 years ago, and our mission statement has been, and continues to be, “To know Christ and to make Him known.” Another strong principle that the church adopted is “to have a heart for missions.”

Acts 2 tells us that the New Testament believers were devoted

• to the things of Jesus,
• to the teaching,
• to the fellowship,
• to the breaking of bread, and
• to prayer.

Acts 2:42, 44. When your heart is pure before God, you will live in a way that allows you

• to be available to God,
• to serve Him, and
• to sacrifice for our Lord.

You will be devoted!

Acts 4:33. People who come to church who have had a genuine experience with the Lord are generous givers. Generosity flows out of them because their lives have been changed.

Also, we are called to be faithful to the Great Commission. Our minds are to be saturated with the desire to reach lost people with the message of life. Let’s declare, “Father, as long as I have breath, I will live the life of a Christ follower, and be unafraid.”

The church is victorious!

He is Sovereign

1 Kings 19:7-18

Biblical sovereignty refers to the theological belief that God is the supreme and ultimate ruler of the universe, holding absolute power, authority, and control over all things.

1. God’s Word is sovereign. 1 Kings 19:9.

• Jesus was the Word. John 1:14.
• The Word is faith when spoken. Romans 10:8.
• The Word will not fade away. Isaiah 40:8.
• The Word is like a living well. John 4:13.
• The Word will not die. Matthew 24:35.
• The Word is a deterrent to sin. Psalm 119:11. Revelation 22:13.

2. God’s will is sovereign. 1 Kings 19:15.

Jesus gave a good example of our response to God’s direction in life. He prayed, “Not My will, but Thy will be done.” God’s will may not always take you where you want to go, be pleasant or easy; it may require sacrifice or create opportunity for questions or fear. But we will always find peace, encouragement, protection, provision, and power. Daniel 3:16-18.

3. God’s worship is sovereign. 1 Kings 19:18.

We were created to praise the Lord. Now or later, all mankind will exalt and acknowledge the Name of the Lord.

Revelation 1:7, 8, 17, 18. His Word is final. His will shall be done. His praise and worship shall be heard from those who love Him.

He is sovereign!

Courage for the Climb

James 1:2, 3, 12

In the past weeks, we’ve discussed Delay, Defeat, Doubt, and Discouragement. This week, we’ll talk about Dignity. How do we stand up under tests? Jesus says that often, the challenges we face are tests. Let’s look at some challenges of a real believer:

1. Major change. Hebrews 11:8.

When God told Abraham to get ready to go, the obvious question would be “Where?”

A true believer will follow God’s leading without knowing where.

2. Delayed promise. Hebrews 11:9-10.

This test causes us to ask “When?”

A real believer will wait for God’s timing without knowing when.

3. An impossible problem. Hebrews 11:11.

An impossible problem is not WHEN or WHERE, but HOW are You going to do that, Lord?

A true believer will expect a miracle without understanding how it will happen.

4. A senseless tragedy. Hebrews 11:17-19.

When we encounter things we don’t understand, remember that they are tests, and God always has a better plan. God is not intimidated by our questions, but He does require absolute trust and obedience. Mark 9:24.

A real believer will trust God’s purpose without knowing why.

God is always God, and He will never fail you, if you continue to trust Him.

Courage for the Climb

Nehemiah 4:6

Over the last three weeks, we’ve looked at the Deadly Ds – Delay, Doubt, and Defeat. Many have said that the deadliest disease is Discouragement, and that’s what we examine today.

Discouragement is contagious; it hits everybody.

Let’s look at four causes of discouragement:

1. Fatigue. Nehemiah 4:10 (a).
2. Frustration. Nehemiah 4:10 (b)
3. Failure. Nehemiah 4:10 (c).
4. Fear. Nehemiah 4:11, 12.

The cures for discouragement:

1. Rest your body. Psalm 127:2 (LB); Psalm 119:73.
2. Reorganize your life. Nehemiah 4:13.
3. Set new spiritual, physical, and emotional priorities.
4. Remember the Lord. Nehemiah 4:14 (a).

• Remember God’s goodness in the past.
• Remember God’s closeness in the present.
• Remember God’s power for your future.
• Psalm 119:25 (LB); Jonah 2:7.

5. Resist the discouragement. Nehemiah 4:14 (b)

Don’t give in to discouragement. It is a choice. It can be overcome. The Word of God is the antidote to discouragement.

Someone said, “A person’s strength in God and the measure of that strength is determined by what it takes to discourage that person.” James 4:7.

Courage for the Climb

“My days have passed, my plans are shattered, and so are the desires of my heart.” Job 17:11.

Possible Causes of Failure

1. We don’t plan ahead. Proverbs 27:17 (LB); Proverbs 16:9.

2. We think we’ve arrived. Proverbs 18:18; Proverbs 15:22.

3. We are afraid to take risks. Proverbs 25:29 (LB)

4. We give up too soon. Proverbs 15:19 (LB).

5. We don’t listen to God. Proverbs 14:12.

When you fail, how do you get beyond it?

How to Get a Fresh Start in Life

1. Accept responsibility for your own failure.

Proverbs 28:13(LB).

2. Stop regretting and start repenting.

2 Corinthians 7:10.

3. Forget the former and focus on the future.

Philippians 3:13-14; Matthew 26:75; Matthew 27:3.

4. Trust God to work it all out.

Romans 8:28 (Phillips); Jonah 3:1; 2 Corinthians 5:17 (Phillips); Joel 2:25; Isaiah 6:1.

Courage for the Climb

2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (GN)

“We are often troubled, but not crushed; sometimes in doubt, but never in despair; there are many enemies, but we are never without a friend, and though we badly hurt at times, we are not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (GN)

Three Things That Cause Us to Doubt God

1. Critics. Psalm 73:8-11 (LB); Psalm 42:10-11 (LB)

2. Conscience. 1 Timothy 1:19 (LB)

3. Circumstances.

Example: The storm on Lake Galilee. Mark 4:35-41

How to Deal with Your Doubts

1. Admit your doubts.

Examples:

• John the Baptist.
  • Matthew 11:2-3.
• Thomas.
  • John 20:24-29; Jude 1:22.

2. Doubt your doubts.

Proverbs 3:5

3. Begin with the faith you have.

Mark 9:24; Matthew 17:20

What are you doubting about God?

1 John 5:13

Jesus said, “I am the way. No man goes to the Father except through Me.” Put your faith in Him. Doubting Thomas was a skeptic, but he became a believer after having a personal encounter with Jesus. You need an encounter with Jesus today!

Courage for the Climb

Luke 18:1-8

“Then Jesus told His disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” Luke 18:1.

Why should you keep praying when your answer doesn’t come on your timetable? Here are four reasons:

1. Persistent praying helps me focus on God. Philippians 4:19.

God wants us to remember that He, and He alone, is the source. Psalm 105:4.

2. Persistent praying clarifies my requests.

Many times, a delayed answer gives me time to clarify what I really want. Many of our prayers are too vague or too general. Time gives you the opportunity to clarify what you want, and then waiting helps you refine your prayer. Zechariah 13:9; Jeremiah 29:13.

3. Persistent praying prepares me for the answer. Ephesians 3:20. Sometimes God denies a small blessing because he wants to position us for a bigger blessing. There are changes that God wants to make in each of us.

4. Persistent praying strengthens my faith.

Prayer and faith go hand-in-hand. Faith is like a muscle, and it grows by being stretched. Praying persistently is a faith-building exercise. Waiting tests your faith. Galatians 6:9; Luke 11:9. Scripture says we ought always to pray and never give up. Whatever you’re thinking about giving up on today, don’t!

Hang in there!

The Truth About Lies

Ecclesiastes 2:10, 11

Key Truth – A lie believed as truth will affect you as if it were true.

The lie we will look at today is “If I perform well, then I’m valuable.”

1. Our identity wrongly comes from what we have accomplished.

2. Our identity wrongly comes from what we have.

3. Our identity wrongly comes from what people think about us.

We are not what we did, what we do, or what we’re going to do. We are who God says we are. We are not our performance, not our accomplishments, not what we accumulate, but we are who God says we are. We are a new creation in Christ, a child of the King. Ephesians 2:10.

When we trust God, He will define what’s essential in our lives. He will define the following two things:

1. Let God define the do’s and the don’ts.

Let God define what you will do, and what you won’t do.

Matthew 11:29-30; Proverbs 20:25.

2. Let God define the WHEN and the THEN.

James 14:13-14; Colossians 3:17.

You do all in the Name of the One who did it all for you!

The Truth About Lies

Exodus 4:13

Key Truth – A lie believed as truth will affect you as if it were true.

The lie we will deal with today is from the pit of hell. It is “I’m not good enough.” God called Moses to deliver God’s people from bondage, but Moses began to tell God about his problems. Exodus 4:10, 13.

Let’s look at two lies:

1. We base our self-worth on what others say about us.

Maybe you’ve heard a lie so often that you began to believe it, and your behavior began to follow suit.

2. We believe that our worth is based on our past experiences.

When you base your worth on what’s happened to you in the past, you’ll believe the lie, and it will not allow you to soar to the place that God has created you to enjoy. Exodus 4:11. You are not who others say you are, and you are not the total of your past experiences.

You are who God says you are!

• Christ calls you. 1 Peter 5:10; 1 Peter 2:9.
• Remind yourself that you are capable through Christ. Philippians 4:13; Romans 8:37; 2 Corinthians 3:4-5.
• You are complete in Christ. 2 Peter 1:3.

Your capability comes through Christ Jesus, not your power, but His power. Everything that you need is in Christ! 2 Colossians 2:9-10.

The Truth About Lies

2 Corinthians 10:3, 4

Key Truth – A lie believed as truth will affect you as if it were true. Today, we’ll deal with the lie that says, “This is just the way I am. I can’t change.” 2 Corinthians 10:3, 4. These verses say that we have divine power to demolish strongholds.

Strongholds that might apply in our lives:

• Financial strongholds.
• Relational strongholds.
• Habitual strongholds.
• Mental strongholds.
• Spiritual strongholds.
• Physical strongholds.

You can be delivered, and you can be set free from the lies the enemy tells you.

1. We can capture wrong thoughts. 2 Corinthians 10:5; Philippians 4:8.
2. We can release the right words. Proverbs 18:21; Psalm 19:14.
3. We can attack the evil and win our battles through Christ. Colossians 1:29.

Instead of confessing your problems, weaknesses, and shortcomings, start confessing all the positive traits that God has in you. When you do that, your life will begin to change, and the lies that the enemy has been telling you will be conquered once and for all.

The Truth About Lies

John 8:32

Key Truth – A lie believed as truth will affect you as if it were true.

John 8:44. Satan is a liar, but even greater than that, he is called the father of lies.

One of Satan’s lies is that in every situation, you must be strong. In other words, you must hold it together and not acknowledge any weakness. We’re told that admitting a weakness or a challenge is weak, but that’s not what the Bible says. John 8:32. Life’s challenges were never meant to be carried by an individual.

• Are you spiritually strong?

Are you able to cast all your cares on the Lord and allow Him to manage them for you?

• Are you professionally strong?

God never intended for you to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. He never intended for you to be the answer to everybody else’s problems. Your strength is intentionally limited. God’s strength is unlimited. That’s why God wants us not to depend on our limited abilities, but to do life empowered by His unlimited spiritual power. Isaiah 40:30-31. For God to move, you must be weak and vulnerable. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.

The lie of the enemy tells us never to show our dependence upon God. When we do, His grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in our weakness. The truth is found in Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Soon and Very Soon

Ezekiel 22:23-31

When Jesus returns, who will go with us, missing the eternal consequences of death? Hebrews 9:27, 28.

1. We must see the need. Ezekiel 22:24.

Our text is the declaration of judgment upon the people of God, especially Jerusalem. Sin, with the rejection of God, was common practice. Sin, separation from God, is prevalent in our culture today. 2 Corinthians 4:6; 2 Corinthians 4:1, 2.

2. We must become consumed. Ezekiel 22:30.

If we are to take others with us when Jesus returns, we must be consumed with the task of sharing Jesus Christ. Jude 22, 23; Proverbs 11:30; James 5:20. We must be consumed if we are to take others to heaven by sharing the Gospel.

3. We must remember the consequences of failure.

Ezekiel 22:31; Matthew 10:42; 2 Timothy 4:8; Matthew 7:23; Matthew 8:12; Revelation 20:15; Luke 16:23, 24.

Jesus is coming soon! Let’s focus on the needs of those who are lost. We must be consumed with reaching them for Christ. If we fail, those we love who are lost will die forever.

When Jesus returns, who will go with you?

Jesus Paid It All

Proverbs 14:12; Galatians 3:1-25

Did you know that religion places a person in bondage? Proverbs 14:12. Judaizers taught that Jesus Christ was not enough, that faith in Jesus also required works. They embraced a set of rules that bound an individual by the law. The Judaizers were teaching two common beliefs that seem right:

1. If I do something wrong, I should do something right.

2. If I do something right, I deserve something good.

But, the Scripture declares there is a way that seems right, but in the end, it leads to death. When Jesus died, He paid the price once and for all. Paul steps to the place in all this confusion: Galatians 3:1, 2, 3. The bottom line of what we believe is that we receive Jesus Christ by faith, a simple faith. Hebrews 11:1. If you want a mature faith, a faith that pleases God, the Bible says to have the faith of a child – the simple faith of a child. The message Paul shared wasn’t enough for the Judaizers. Galatians 3:6. Paul realized how persuasive the Judaizers were, and this is what he said to those listening: Galatians 3:10; Galatians 3:19; Galatians 3:24-25. The law led us to Jesus Christ, and His grace became sufficient.

1. Where there is no law, there is no sin.

2. The function of the law is to define sin.

3. The law cannot cure sin, but leads us to Christ, who is the only One who can redeem us from sin.

Let’s face the reality that only Jesus Christ can forgive us of our sins and not the power of religion!

Leaving a Faith-Filled Legacy

Deuteronomy 34:1-12

America was founded as a nation with religious principles, with a motto of “In God We Trust.” Unfortunately, we have lost sight of those values, and with time, we have moved away from God and His Word. Despite that, America is still the greatest nation in the world! Moses is our example for today. He is leaving behind a legacy to those he loves.

1. Leaving a legacy of promise.

Deuteronomy 34:4.

Moses is nearing the end of his 40-plus years of leadership.

• The promise is where sin abounds, God’s grace abounds that much more. Romans 5:20.
• The promise is in the last days, God’s Spirit is going to explode on the face of the earth. Acts 2:17.
• The promise is that we will see greater miracles than those of Jesus Christ. John 14:12.

2. Leaving a legacy of potential.

Deuteronomy 34:9; 1 Kings 19:9-11.

God told Moses to come out of the cave and see, hear, and feel the power and glory of God. Moses anointed Joshua and declared the legacy of potential was upon him.

3. Leaving a legacy of purpose.

Deuteronomy 34:12.

What you plan today, you will do tomorrow. If there are no plans, tomorrow will be today, and it will be lost. Legacy is a gift that we give to the future. May we as Americans, and more importantly, as Christians, live a life of purpose.

Somebody Step Up!

John 2:1-11

Our text shares a story that is the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. The story will reveal the heart of God and how He is impacted by those who love Him.

1. We see a touch of compassion.

John 2:4, 5

Jesus, His disciples, and His mother, were guests at a wedding where they ran out of wine prematurely. Mary, Jesus’ mother, turned to Him and asked Him to do something. Jesus was moved by compassion for His mother and the family. Romans 9:14-16; Hebrews 4:16. Compassion will cause us to respond with action.

2. We see an act of obedience.

John 2:5, 7

Jesus was moved with compassion and was prepared to do something. However, the key was the obedience of those to whom He gave instruction. Our obedience must be

• Complete. Joshua 11:15.
• Delightful. John 4:32-34
• Non-conditional. Luke 5:5.
• Essential. Luke 6:46, 47.
• Exact. Joshua 1:5, 6.
• Absolute. 1 Samuel 15:22.

3. We see miraculous results.

John 2:9

John 2:11. Mary cried, “Somebody step up!” and Jesus stepped up to the plate and created a miracle. This is God’s desire for each of us. It’s about compassion, obedience, and the miracle-working power of God.

Walk With God

Genesis 5:18-24; Hebrews 11:5

On this Father’s Day, Enoch is our focus. His name means “dedicated,” and he walked with God. Often, men work hard and forget that the most important aspect of life is their walk with God.

1. Man’s worst enemy – His ego.

Romans 12:3.

Ego is exaggerated self-esteem. In Latin, it means “I.”

Romans 12:1, 2; Proverbs 16:18.

2. Man’s greatest fear – Failure.

Matthew 26:33.

Men often go over the edge and function out of fear and anger to succeed in life. When the fear of failure motivates our actions in life, we often function for the wrong reasons. Working for the right reasons and failing is not nearly as bad as working for the wrong reasons and succeeding. Matthew 5:3, 7. True success comes from the man who knows he can win but fails so that those he loves can win.

3. Man’s greatest quest – Walk with God.

Genesis 5:24.

Enoch walked with God, meaning

• Humility ruled his heart. 1 Peter 5:6.
• Meekness, gentleness, ruled his spirit. 2 Timothy 2:24, 25.
• Love spoke from his heart.

1 Corinthians 13:2

You have the power to deal with unholy pride, walk with significance, and walk with God so that those you love will desire God.

Living Inside Out – Faithfulness

Galatians 5:22

“The fruit of the Spirit is…faithfulness…”

Why is faithfulness important?

• God is faithful. Psalm 33:4.
• Unfaithfulness causes problems. Proverbs 25:19.
• God will reward faithfulness. Matthew 25:14-40.

How to be a faithful person:

1. Keep your promises.

Proverbs 25:14; Proverbs 20:25; Ecclesiastes 5:5.

2. Honor your marriage. Hebrews 13:4 (GN).

Honor means to hold in high esteem.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7. Faithfulness is a choice.

3. Use your talents. 1 Peter 4:10.

We are to let our faithfulness, using our gifts, bring glory and honor to God.

4. Make the most of your time. Ephesians 5:15-16 (PH).

5. Stand by your friends. Proverbs 17:17 (LB).

Real friends are consistent, reliable, and you can count on them in times of crisis.

6. Manage your money. Luke 16:11. 1 Corinthians 16:2 (LB)

7. Do your best at work. Luke 16:10, 12.

Christians should have a reputation for being the most dependable people at work.

8. Commit yourself to the church. Romans 12:5.

God honors faithfulness.

Let’s be faithful!

Living Inside Out – Kindness

Galatians 5:22

Galatians 5:22 “The fruit of the Spirit is…kindness…”

Colossians 3:12 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and

dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness,

humility, gentleness, and patience.”

1 Corinthians 13:4 “Love is kind.”

Why be kind?

• Because God is kind to me. Ephesians 2:8 (LB).
• Because I want people to be kind to me.

Proverbs 21:21; Proverbs 11:17.

How can you be a kinder person?

1. Be sensitive. Philippians 2:4.

David – 2 Samuel 9:1-13.

2. Be supportive. Proverbs 15:4 (GN); Proverbs 10:32 (GN).

Joseph – Genesis 50:19-21.

3. Be sympathetic. Romans 12:15.

Jesus – John 11:35.

4. Be straightforward. Proverbs 27:6 (LB).

Paul – Galatians 2:11, 14.

5. Be spontaneous. Galatians 6:10.

Good Samaritan – Luke 10:30-37.

Many people are bleeding physically, financially, and emotionally, with a variety of problems. The only help they’ll get is from God, and who does God work through? God works through people who have decided to exhibit kindness.

Living Inside Out – Patience

Galatians 5:22; Proverbs 16:32

Galatians 5:22 “The fruit of the Spirit is…patience…”

Proverbs 16:32 (GN) “It is better to be patient than powerful…to win control over yourself than over whole cities.”

Patience has a lot to do with waiting. Scripture provides numerous examples of waiting. It’s easy to be patient when things go your way. But when things do not go your way, how patient are you?

Four “Tests” of Your Patience

How do you react to…

1. Interruptions. Matthew 19:13-14.

2. Inconveniences. Luke 10:40.

3. Irritations. Numbers 20:10-11.

4. Inactivity. Job 14:14.

How do we learn to be more patient?

1. Discover a new perspective. Proverbs 19:11

Proverbs 20:24; Proverbs 14:29.

2. Develop your sense of humor. Proverbs 14:30 (LB).

Psalm 2:4; Proverbs 17:22.

3. Deepen your love. 1 Corinthians 13:4.

Ephesians 4:2 (LB).

4. Depend on the Lord. Colossians 1:11.

Patience is a form of faith. You must put your trust in God. Faith demonstrates how much you trust God, and patience reflects your faith.

Living Inside Out - Joy

Galatians 5:22

“The fruit of the Spirit is…joy…” Galatians 5:22.

“Rejoice in the Lord always and again I say rejoice!”

Philippians 4:4

Christians can be joyful despite the circumstances. Why do you rejoice during a tough time?

1. Because we have hope.

Romans 5:2.

For a believer, no situation is hopeless. We can be positive because we know we have hope. Romans 12:11.

2. Because God has a purpose in every situation. Romans 5:3-4.

The sufferings that you go through produce a few things:

• Suffering produces perseverance.
• Perseverance produces character.
• Character produces more hope.

James 1:2; Philippians 1:12, 19; Romans 5:11.

3. Because God is always with us. Psalm 33:3; Isaiah 43:2.

Develop an important attitude.

1. The attitude of gratitude. 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
2. The attitude of giving. Acts 20:35; Malachi 3:10.
3. The attitude of service. Ephesians 6:7-8; Psalm 100:2.
4. The attitude that encourages you to witness. John 1:40-41;

Romans 10:1; Psalm 51:12. “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”

Living Inside Out - Love

1 Corinthians 13:13

1 Corinthians 13:13 “Now these three remain – faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

1. What is love?

There are popular misconceptions about what love is.

• Love is a feeling.
• Love is uncontrollable.
• God says –
• Love is a matter of choice. Colossians 3:14.
• Love is a matter of conduct. 1 John 3:18.

Agape love is unconditional love.

2. How to love someone you don’t like.

1. Experience God’s love yourself.

Ephesians 3:17-18 (LB); 1 John 4:19

2. Forgive those who’ve hurt you. Colossians 3:13.

3. Think loving thoughts. Philippians 2:4-5 (LB)

4. Begin acting in a loving way. Luke 6:27-28.

Love them; do good; bless them; pray for them; expect the best from them. 1 Corinthians 13:7 (LB); Revelation 2:4-5.

Ways to rekindle a love that has died:

• Remember.
• Repent. 1 Corinthians 13:4.
• Do the things you did at first.

Two absolutes in building a relationship:

• Commit yourself totally to Jesus Christ.
• Commit yourself unreservedly to your mate.

Living Inside Out

“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23

Philippians 2:12-13 “Work out your own salvation. For it is God who works in you.” To work out your salvation, listed below are tools God uses to change you:

1. God uses the Bible. 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

2. God uses the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:11; 1 Corinthians 3:18.

3. God uses circumstances. Romans 8:28-29; Proverbs 20:30.

Change is a choice. Below are areas in which God helps us with change:

1. You can choose what you think about.

Proverbs 4:23; Ephesians 4:23-24; Romans 12:2; Psalm 1:1; Colossians 3:16; Psalm 119:9.

2. You can choose to depend on the Holy Spirit. John 15:4-5.

3. You can choose your response to life. Romans 5:3-4.

God’s purpose has never changed. He’s given us the Word, the Holy Spirit, and circumstances that build our character. God produces the fruit of the Spirit in our lives by allowing us to experience many different challenges. There’s no such thing as instant maturity. It comes through the power of spiritual growth. As you grow, you’ll taste the fruit that God has given you and find that it’s sweet and beautiful. You’ll see the changing of God’s power in you for good!

Easter…Do I Believe?

Luke 24:13-53

During the celebration of the Passover Feast, thousands watched the crucifixion of three men, and one of them was Jesus, the Son of God. The earth shook, the sky grew dark, thunder rolled, and lightning flashed across the sky, marking the death of Jesus. When Jesus died, the Creator, our Heavenly Father, started the countdown for the event that would break the curse upon all mankind. His death paid the price for freedom.

His resurrection would conquer the stronghold and break the curse. Three days were all that separated hopelessness from hope.

1. His death and resurrection cursed unbelief.

Luke 24:25.

Unbelief is the willingness, because of skepticism, to believe something is true; to doubt. When Jesus came out of the grave, He broke the curse of unbelief.

2. His death and resurrection cursed religion.

Luke 24:32.

Without the Spirit, you are just religious at best. 1 Timothy 4:1.

3. His death and resurrection broke death’s hold.

Luke 24:45.

Before His ascension, Jesus came to earth to break death’s hold. He opened eyes and hearts to the truth that He would suffer and die. On the third day, He would conquer death. People could repent of their sins and share the Good News!

Made to Make a Difference

Mark 12:30, 31

The Bible tells us to:

• Seek God passionately.
• Obey God passionately.
• Love God passionately.
• Trust God passionately.
• Serve God passionately.

“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor!” Romans 12:11 (NIV).

Seven Passion-Killers:

1. An unclear purpose. Isaiah 49:4 (NIV).
2. An unemployed talent. 1 Corinthians 7:17 (Ph).
3. An unbalanced schedule. 1 Timothy 4:7(b) (Ph).
4. An unconfessed sin. Psalm 38:4, 6 (NIV).
5. An unresolved conflict. Job 5:2 (NLT); Job 18:4 (GN).
6. An unsupported lifestyle. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV).
7. An undernourished spirit. Colossians 2:6-7 (LB); Exodus 34:14 (NLT).

C.S. Lewis said, “The only thing Christianity cannot be is moderately important.”

Revelation 2:4-5 (NIV) “You have forsaken your first love…”

• Remember the height from which you have fallen.
• Repent.
• Do the things you did at first.

Made to Make a Difference

Proverbs 3:22

Webster defines integrity as “the quality or state of being complete, undivided, or incorruptible.”

1. Why is integrity important?

• It pleases God. Proverbs 3:22 (NLT); 2 Chronicles 16:9.
• It affects others. Proverbs 20:7 (NCV); Proverbs 11:11; Proverbs 14:34 (ICV). There are two reasons why people reject Jesus Christ: They’ve never met a Christian, or they have met a Christian.

• It blesses me. Proverbs 11:5-6 (The Message); Proverbs 10:9 (NLT).

2. How to live with integrity.

• Speak the truth. Proverbs 12:22; Ephesians 4:15 (Amplified); Proverbs 4:24 (The Message).
• Stand for what’s right. 2 Corinthians 13:8 (NLT); James 4:17 (ICB); Proverbs 20:28 (The Message).
• Stay Clean. Philippians 2:15 (NLT).

Here are three things that will help:

• Choose the right friends. 1 Corinthians 15:33.
• Value integrity more than image. Proverbs 28:6 (GWT).
• Watch what you watch. Psalm 101:2-3 (NLT); Proverbs 15:14 (NLT); 2 Peter 1:3 (GWT).

Made to Make a Difference

2 Chronicles 16:9

Commitments define your life. Let’s look at five principles that will allow you to decide on and adhere to a fully committed life.

1. I must commit my life to Christ.

Romans 10:9 (NLT)

This is foundational. Before anything else can happen, you must get to know God.

2. I must commit to being a member of His family.

1 Peter 1:3 (LB); Romans 12:10 (NIV)

You need the church, the family of God, in your life.

3. I must commit to being a model of his life.

Hebrews 6:1 (LB); Proverbs 23:12 (NLT); 1 Timothy 3:9 (NLT)

God wants you to learn to act the way Jesus acts, think the way He thinks, and feel the way He feels.

4. I must commit to being a minister of His grace.

1 Peter 4:10 (LB); Matthew 20:28 (LB)

Once you determine your talents and abilities, then you put them to work for the Lord.

5. I must commit to being a messenger of His love.

2 Corinthians 5:19-20 (LB); 2 Peter 3:15 (LB)

Sometimes, you’re the only Bible some people will ever read.

We have the answer to every problem – it’s Jesus Christ.

Romans 8:3 (LB); Titus 2:14 (NLT); Romans 12:1 (LB); Psalm 37:5 (LB)

Let’s be committed!

Uncommon Heroes

Gideon

Judges 6:11

Gideon’s life is a classic example of how God prepares us to be used in a significant way. God used a four-step process to transform Gideon from a loser into a leader.

1. God’s affirmation. He will encourage me.

God always starts in your life with a word of encouragement.

Judges 6:13, 14, 15; Romans 8:31.

2. God’s revelation. He will meet me.

When God wants to change me, He first encourages me and then meets me. Judges 6:17, 22.

3. Gideon’s confrontation. God will test me. Judges 6:25-32.

Before God uses you in a significant way, He will test you. The test determines whether you’re going to trust God and obey Him without question. God may test you

• Spiritually. Exodus 20:3.
• Emotionally.
• Physically.

Judges 6:28-31.

4. Gideon’s transformation. God will empower me. Judges 6:34.

Gideon has passed the tests, faced the challenges, and now he’s ready to be a leader. God says to Gideon, “I’m going to help you, and I’m going to give you power.”

Don’t limit what God wants to do in your life!

Uncommon Heroes

Noah

Hebrews 11:7-9

Why did God choose Noah when He wanted to start over with the human race?

“For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.” 2 Chronicles 16:9

1. God uses people who are available.

“…the Lord was grieved that He had made man…but Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.” Genesis 6:5-8

2. God uses people who dare to be different.

“Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked with God.” Genesis 6:9

3. God uses people who follow Him completely.

“Noah did everything just as God commanded him.” Genesis 6:22

4. God uses people who never give up.

“…man’s days will be a hundred and twenty years.” Genesis 6:3

Uncommon Heroes

Moses

Hebrews 11:24-25

Why was God able to use Moses in such a significant way?

Because Moses settled four basic questions of life:

• Who am I? Hebrews 11:24
• What are my choices? Hebrews 11:25
• What is really important? Hebrews 11:26
• What are my goals? Hebrews 11:27

1. Be yourself.

Hebrews 11:24

Remember that God has a specific purpose for your life and will reveal His plan if you stay focused on your relationship with Him.

2. Accept the responsibility for your own life.

Hebrews 11:25

Stop blaming everyone else for the challenges you have in your life. Your happiness will be determined by your character, and your character is determined by the choices you make.

3. Establish a value system for your life.

Hebrews 11:24-26

The world’s value system:

• Pleasure. “I want to feel good.”
• Possessions. “I want to be wealthy.”
• Power. “I want to be influential.”

4. Never take your eyes off the goal.

Hebrews 11:27; 2 Corinthians 4:16, 18.

Have a clear vision for God’s purpose in your life.

Uncommon Heroes

Samson

Judges 13:24

Judges 13 reveals a story of someone who went from Hero to Zero and then back to Hero. We’re looking at Samson today. He was physically the strongest man ever to live, but spiritually and emotionally, he was a weakling. He was dedicated as a baby, and as a young man, he took a Nazirite vow, one of dedication to God, Jehovah. When he became a teenager, he rebelled. Rebellion is a chosen behavior, and it always brings consequences. Let’s look at three things that will weaken your life:

1. Self-indulgence weakens your life.

It is the lack of self-control. It’s undisciplined living.

Judges 14:1-3; Galatians 6:7, 8; 1 Corinthians 6:12; Proverbs 25:28.

2. Bitterness will weaken your life.

Samson lived in a constant state of resentment and anger. He lived to get revenge.

Judges 15:3, 7, 11, 14-15; Proverbs 29:22; Proverbs 16:32; Proverbs 29:11.

3. Carelessness weakens your life.

Samson was a very careless person, whose strength was a gift from God. He continually misused and abused the gift God had given to him. Judges 13:3-5; Judges 16:4-9, 16, 19-20. God forgives no matter what you’ve done or where you’ve been!

Totally Committed

Be Invested

Matthew 6:19-21 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not break in and steal. For where you treasure is there your heart will be also.”

Jesus is very explicit about what we invest and how we invest. He says, “Be careful that you don’t invest in things that pass away, that have no life, that offer you nothing relating to eternity.” God has created us to pour out and not store up.

Luke 12:13-21. God has called us to have a mindset of abundance, generosity, and investing in things of eternal value. Ecclesiastes 2:4 tells of Solomon’s great projects and wealth, but he says in Ecclesiastes 2:11 “Yet when I surveyed what all my hands had done, and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, chasing after the wind. Nothing was gained under the sun.”

Luke 7:36-50 shares the story of a sinful woman who gave her most prized possession as a sacrificial act of worship. The most valuable worship is when you give out of yourself to praise the King of Kings, to invest in His church, and to see that lost people are reached. It’s investing in eternal things that bring back great rewards. When God sent His Son, Jesus, He held nothing back. Invest in the Kingdom of God!

Totally Committed

Influential

John 4:4-15

One of the definitions of an influencer is “an individual who has the power to affect the purchase decision of others because of their authority, knowledge, or relationship with their audience.” Have you lived in such a way that influences others toward Christ? Matthew 5 says, “You are the salt of the earth.” You are also the light of the world. “Let your light shine so that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” That means you are to influence other people by the way you live.

John 4:7-8. Jesus is on a journey, and He’s going to pass through Samaria. As a Jew, you would never interact with a Samaritan, especially a woman; however, Jesus began a conversation with a Samaritan woman. John 4:9, 10, 13-14, 16, 19-25. Jesus looked beyond the woman’s reputation and influenced her by His wisdom and power.

When the woman realized that she was in the presence of the Messiah, she ran to town and began to use the influence of her experience with Jesus to get as many people as she could to see and hear Jesus. John 4:39,42. A Samaritan woman who was broken and tainted shared her testimony and her influence to reach lost people. Lost people are blind and don’t know their own needs, according to Scripture. You and I are salt and light, and we have influence through the power of the Holy Spirit!

Totally Committed

Luke 7:36-39

Over the next four weeks, we’ll share:

1. I’m INVITED into God’s family.
2. I’m INVALUABLE to God’s family.
3. I’m INFLUENTIAL to God’s family.
4. I’m INVESTED in God’s family.

Today’s core theme is that we are all invited into God’s family, and the basic Scripture is “Whosoever will.” Luke 7 shares one of the greatest truths of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus invites the people that others reject. He invites those that religion despises, and other organizations declare aren’t good enough. You and I are invited into the family of God because Jesus invites people who are unworthy, and who do not have the qualifications. It’s because of God’s unconditional love for us.

The context for the story today is found in Luke 7:36-39. Jesus was at an event when an uninvited guest walked in. She was a sinful woman, a prostitute who came into the meeting uninvited. In the minds of the Pharisees, she was unclean, unpure, unworthy, and someone you shunned. The Scripture says she walked in and fell at Jesus’ feet. Luke 7:48. Jesus died on the cross to save whoever will if they repent.

Matthew 11:28-30. The woman was impacted by the invitation to know the Son of the Living God.

You are invited to join the healer, redeemer, and deliverer! You are invited into God’s family!

Life with Balance

Ecclesiastes 2:17-26

Life was given to be enjoyed, and families were created to bring companionship and pleasure. How do you enjoy life with balance?

1. The view.

Ecclesiastes 2:17

That kind of view can shoot you down, make you feel hopeless, cause you to feel like a failure, bring depression, and create stress upon stress. You can change the view by choosing to see what you desire to see through the eyes of faith. Philippians 4:4-7.

2. The evaluation.

Ecclesiastes 2:18, 19

If you desire to change your view, examine your obligations and expectations.

1. Faith. Matthew 6:33
2. Finances.
3. Family.
4. Fitness.
5. Fun.

3. The beauty.

Ecclesiastes 2:24-26(a)

Priorities are set, time is managed, money is budgeted, people are valued, disciplines are pursued, faith is a lifestyle, and opportunities for evaluation and adjustments are given. What is a balanced life? It’s not perfection, but it is fulfilling, and it brings pleasure to God, you, and others.

Make That Money

Luke 14:15-24

Why do we need money? Why has the love of money become so important? Having money, and lots of it is not a sin. However, making money the primary focus of our lives is the problem.

Being successful and being significant are two different things. You can be successful and not be significant. However, you cannot be significant without being successful.

1. High expectations.

Luke 14:17; Jeremiah 29:11

2. Poor excuses.

Luke 14:18

God can give us a perfect opportunity and have high expectations for us, but we get to choose how we respond. Money and making money can rob us of some significant things that should be essential.

3. Beyond imagination.

Luke 14:22

When God gives us an opportunity and privilege, and we’re too busy with what may be important, but not essential, usually someone else will receive what God has for us.

This message is not about how to budget or how to make more money. It’s about never losing the dream of having the time and relationships with God and others to experience true joy.

A Savior in a Manger - Jesus

Isaiah 9:6

At the mention of the name of Jesus, every demonic power known to man, and that which is unknown, shakes because His name has power. The name of Jesus is the only way to God.

1. Behold, Jesus, the baby.

Isaiah 7:14. Isaiah 9:6.

2. Jesus, the Lamb of God.

John 1:29. Revelation 5:12.

3. Jesus, the man.

John 19:4, 5. Isaiah 53:5, 6.

4. Jesus, the King who will return soon.

Revelation 22:12.

5. Jesus, the One who wants to share His life with you.

Revelation 3:20.

Celebrate Christmas because Jesus is your risen Lord. He is the Son of God. He is the Christ Child. He is the Lamb of God. He is the man who endured the sins of the world. He is the soon-returning king, standing at your heart’s door, waiting for you to let Him in.

Jesus is the reason for the season!

A Savior in a Manger - Gold

Matthew 2:10, 11

In this series, we have focused on the gifts the wise men brought to Mary, Joseph, and Jesus:

• Frankincense symbolizes Jesus as the Great High Priest.
• Myrrh represents Jesus as the Suffering Servant, or the Lamb of God.

• Gold symbolizes the Kingship of Jesus.

Because of its scarcity and value, gold has been known throughout history as a gift fit for a king. When the Maggi gave gold to Jesus, it reflected Jesus' kingship. 1 Timothy 6:15. God, the creator, had a very unusual way of showing His love to the world at the birth of Jesus. The baby was born to bring hope to all mankind.

The Jewish priests didn’t oppose Jesus; they just dismissed Him as King. Micah 5:2. People today dismiss the need to come and worship in the presence of God. They don’t take the time to read the Word of God, which is life and power and brings hope.

The Wise Men gave gold to Jesus, acknowledging Him as King. They bowed down and worshipped Him, showing reverence to the King of the universe. We’re offered eternal life if we’re willing to acknowledge Him!

A Savior in a Manger - Myrrh

Matthew 2:10-11

The birth of Jesus is more major, powerful, meaningful, and spiritual than any of us could ever imagine. The three gifts the wise men gave had great and monumental meaning fulfilling Scriptural prophecies.

1. Gold symbolizes the Kingship of Jesus.
2. Frankincense symbolizes Jesus as the Great High Priest.
3. Myrrh represented Jesus as the Suffering Servant, or the Lamb of God.

Never forget that Jesus was born to be a sacrificial lamb, to die for your sins. Myrrh is a valuable gum-like substance, mentioned 17 times in the bible. It was used as an antiseptic and would have been used to prepare Jesus’ body for burial.

Isaiah 53:4, 5, 7. Isaiah said, “All of us, like sheep, have gone astray.” Three basic characteristics of sheep are: (1) They’re weak; (2) They’re witless; (3) They’re wayward. Isaiah 53:6; Luke 9:22, 23.

When the wise men offered myrrh, it was the fulfillment of prophecy and had greater significance than just offering a gift to a baby in a manger. The gift meant that Jesus was born to die, but His death represented the key to eternal life.

A Savior in a Manger

Matthew 2:10-11

Jesus was born in Bethlehem during the reign of King Herod. Wise men traveled a great distance to Bethlehem to worship Jesus. They took three gifts that we’ll talk about during this series.

• Gold – which is valuable, represents the kingship of Jesus.
• Myrrh – represented Jesus as the suffering servant or the Lamb of God.

• Frankincense – represents the priestliness of Jesus.

In the Scriptures, the priest served two functions:

• The priest would be the representative of the people before God; he made sacrifices for the forgiveness of sins.
• The priest prayed on behalf of the people of God.

When Adam and Eve sinned, there were two forces: the sin of man and the holiness of God. The holiness of God brings the power and fellowship between sinful man and Almighty God. Hebrews 10:10; Hebrews 4:14-16.

Symbolically, frankincense represents the act of a loving Savior who says, “I forgive your sin, and I allow you to come to Me at any time and listen to the whisper of your voice…” When the wise men presented gold, frankincense, and myrrh, little did anyone understand the magnitude of what happened.

Blessed Beyond Words

2 Chronicles 7:13-20

The holiday season is here again, and we get to renew our friendships and relationships. We can reflect on the blessings that God has given to us. Our text shares a very important moment between King Solomon and God.

1. God’s blessing is conditional.

2 Chronicles 17:18

God is bound, by His Word, to love us unconditionally, but His blessing is conditional.

2 Chronicles 7:16(a); 2 Chronicles 7:14(a); 2 Chronicles 1:7, 11; Matthew 6:33, 34; Matthew 7:13:14

2. God’s blessing is perpetual.

2 Chronicles 7:16

Perpetual means everlasting, continual, and constant. Blessing alone is not the mark of God’s approval. But perpetual blessing comes to the person who stays true to the challenge, whether times are good or bad.

Job 13:15, 16; Matthew 7:21-23

3. God’s designated blessing can be missed.

2 Chronicles 7:19, 20

Don’t miss God’s blessings. Don’t be a person who rises to great spiritual potential and then allows the enemy to cause you to lose focus with God.

2 Chronicles 7:20-22

Conquer the Impossible

Isaiah 54:1-5

Isaiah shares in our text that the people of God have been in a desolate place, childless, discouraged, and hopeless. The future potential was there and expected but had not been produced and appreciated. Isaiah came into the hopelessness and said –

1. “Sing a song of joy.” Isaiah 54:1(a).

Psalm 28:7

Sing a song of joy in your heart. The blessing is going to come.

2. “Work it out.” Isaiah 54:2(a).

Isaiah says to -

• get a plan.
• state your case.
• counsel with the godly.
• pursue the challenge.
• intend to conquer.

Isaiah said to “make the preparations for the future.”

3. “Expect a blessing.” Isaiah 54:2(b).

Our text says to the barren –

• “Sing a song in your heart.”
• “Work it out; use your head.”
• “Expect a blessing. Use your will.”

Stronger Than the Struggle – Part 4

Ephesians 6:10-18

Paul talks to us in Ephesians 6 about spiritual battles and what we must do to be protected:

• I must get dressed for battle. Ephesians 6:10-11.
• I must know my real enemy. Ephesians 6:12.
• I must use every piece of armor. Ephesians 6:13.

The Six Pieces of Spiritual Armor

1. The Belt of Truth. Ephesians 6:14.
2. The Breastplate of Righteousness. Ephesians 6;14(b).
3. The Gospel Shoes. Ephesians 6:15.
4. The Shield of Faith. Ephesians 6:16.
5. The shield of faith is necessary to protect yourself from the fiery darts that the enemy throws at you.

• Doubt.
• Discouragement.
• Delay.
• Difficulty.
• Depression.

1. The Helmet of Salvation. Ephesians 6:17(a).
2. The Sword of the Spirit. Ephesians 6:17(b).

Prayer is how we fight the battle. Direct communication with God and His Spirit brings deliverance and anointing into your life. Ephesians 6:18 (TEV) “Do all of this in prayer, asking for God’s help. Pray on every occasion, as the Spirit leads. For this reason, keep alert and never give up; always praying for all God’s people.”

Stronger Than the Struggle – Part 2

Romans 8

When you become a follower of Jesus Christ, a new nature comes into your heart and life and becomes an enemy of your old nature. Your old nature wants to do the comfortable thing and not the right thing. But as a Christ follower, we ask, “What does God want for me?” Listed below are seven weapons of self-destruction:

1. Shame.
2. Uncontrolled thoughts.
3. Compulsions.
4. Fear.
5. Hopelessness.
   
6. Bitterness.
   
7. Insecurity.
   

Romans 7 shares the things that have a strong grip on you.

Romans 8 gives us the answers to the challenges:

1. I must remind myself daily what Jesus did for me.

Romans 8:1-4

2. I ask the Holy Spirit to give me better thoughts.

Romans 8:5-6; Romans 8:7-8

3. I realize I have a new ability to say “No.”

Romans 8:9; Romans 8:12

4. I need to turn my thoughts to God whenever I’m afraid.

Romans 8:14-16

5. I must focus on the long term, not the short term.

Romans 8:17-18

6. I must remind myself that God is good and in control.

Romans 8:26-32

7. I can trust that God will never stop loving me.

Romans 8:38-39

Stronger Than the Struggle

Romans 7:15-25

Paul wrote in Romans 7, expressing the emotional battle that was going on inside him. When you try to please God with your own strength, you’re going to be frustrated, and you’re going to fail. Here are six emotional consequences of trying to do things in your own power:

1. Confusion. Romans 7:15.
2. Guilt and shame. Romans 7:16.
3. Compulsions and addictions. Romans 7:17.
4. Self-condemnation. Romans 7:18(a).
5. Frustration. Romans 7:18(b)-20.
6. Discouragement and despair. Romans 7:21, 23.

Paul said this happens because we have two natures – the old nature we were born with, and the new nature given to us when we became a believer.

What is God’s battle plan for our victory?

1. You must deepen your understanding of Christ.

Romans 7:24-25; Romans 6:12-13.

1. You must detect and disarm the lie that you’re believing.

Jeremiah 17:9; John 8:32.

1. You must declare your struggle to another.

James 5:16; Galatians 5:16.

The Spirit does what we can’t do on our own; He gives us power and fulfills us with what God desires for us.

The Power of God’s Blessing

Exodus 33:12-23

1. Value God’s presence.

Exodus 33:14

It is possible to leave, or be out of, the presence of the Lord. God is omnipresent; therefore, we leave the face of God by disobedience, or God turns His face from us. How do we gain God’s presence?

* Call upon the Lord

* Seek His face

* Obey His Word

* Remain humble

2 Chronicles 7:14, 15; 2 Thessalonians 1:8,9; Exodus 33:15

2. Value God’s pleasure.

Exodus 33:16, 17; Ecclesiastes 2:1-11

What does it take to value God’s pleasure?

• Declare your love in action. 1 John 3:16, 17.
• Embrace God’s love and perception of yourself.
• Psalm 8:4, 6.
• Remember the sacrifice. John 3:16.
• Be passionate. Deuteronomy 6:5, 6.
• Serve the cause of Christ. Luke 7:46.

God won’t withhold His blessing when we seek to please Him with our heart, soul, and mind.

3. Value the sacredness of God’s glory.

Exodus 33:22

One of the great tragedies of success is that we begin to take the credit, fill with pride, and exhibit a self-centered behavior. Numbers 20:8, 12. We are never to take God’s glory, but we are to acknowledge His glory through worship and praise. Psalm 3:3; 2 Corinthians 3:15-18. When we fail to praise the Lord, we are hoarding, or hiding, His glory.

“Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord.”

The Church That Jesus Built – Part 2

J Romans 12:5(b)(NLT)

“Since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.”

Why is having a Church family so important?

1. I need others to walk with me.
Colossians 2:6-7; Hebrews 10:25.
Community is God’s answer to loneliness.

1 Corinthians 14:30-31; Ephesians 4:16;1 Peter 4:9.

2. I need others to work with me.
Ephesians 2:10; Ecclesiastes 4:9.
Community is God’s answer to fatigue.

1 Corinthians 14:30-31; Ephesians 4:16;1 Peter 4:9.

3. I need others to watch out for me.
Philippians 2:4; Hebrews 13:1; Ecclesiastes 4:12.
Community is God’s answer to defeat.

Ecclesiastes 4:10.

4. I need others to wait and weep with me.
1 Peter 3:8; 1 Corinthians 12:26.
Community is God’s answer to despair.

5. I need others to witness with me.
John 13:35; 2 Timothy 1:7.
God’s answer to fear is community.

Philippians 1:27.

The Church That Jesus Built

Acts 2:41-42, 46

Why is the Church the most important group on earth?

1. The Church is God’s family. 1 Peter 1:3; 1 Timothy 3:15.
2. The Church is the reason God created the universe. Ephesians 1:4-5.
3. God is using His Church for His eternal purposes. Ephesians 3:10-11.
4. The Church is more important than any business, school, government, or nation. Ephesians 5:25, 27.
5. The Church is the only thing on earth that’s going to last forever. Ephesians 3:21; 1 Thessalonians 4:17
6. The Church is the only group that Jesus said would succeed. Matthew 16:18.
7. The Church is the only group big enough to solve global problems. Ephesians 3:20
8. Belonging to God’s Church is the greatest privilege. 1 Peter 1:3; Proverbs 19:21.

Five benefits of belonging to the Family of God:

1. The Church will keep you focused on God.
2. The Church will help you face life’s problems.
3. The Church will help to fortify your faith.
4. The Church will help you find your place in the world.
5. The Church will help you fulfill your life mission.

I Can See Clearly Now

Acts 9:1-19

Our text is an interesting story about Saul who despised Christians. He believed it was his job to annihilate Christians and Christianity. Stephen was a young layperson who was committed to God, and Saul was part of the group who decided they were going to stone Stephen. The enemies of Stephen and Christianity began to stone him as he preached.

Acts 9:1-2

• Even when you aren’t aware, God is working on your behalf. He will direct your life, but you must be able to hear, see, and recognize Him. That means you must learn to listen.
• Saul wasn’t counting on the powerful Hand of God calling him to a new life. Acts 9:6
• Sometimes we are given a small directive, but the test of our hearts is found in our obedience. You must take steps one and two before you begin to see God’s plan and purpose.
• Favor is not a sign of God’s approval, but obedience in tough times shows the grace of God and His approval in your life.
• Look through the lens of the will of God and be at peace as you walk in obedience!

Stand in the Gap

Ezekiel 22:23-31

Jesus’ soon coming, the Rapture, has already started to happen, and the fulfillment is just around the corner.

Hebrews 9:27, 28

1. We must see the need.

Ezekiel 22:24

Our text is the declaration of judgment upon the people of God, especially Jerusalem. Sin, with a rejection of God, was the common practice. Ezekiel 22:13. 2 Corinthians 4:6; 2 Corinthians 4:1, 2. The only way for the unbelieving to receive this promise is for those who have the promise to see the need and respond.

2. We must become consumed.

Ezekiel 22:30

There is urgency in this verse. Jude 22, 23; Proverbs 11:30; James 5:20. We must be consumed if we are to take others to heaven by sharing the Gospel.

3. We must remember the consequences of failure.

Ezekiel 22:31; Matthew 10:42; 2 Timothy 4:8; Matthew 7:23; Matthew 8:12; Revelation 20:15; Luke 16:23, 24.

Jesus is coming soon:

• Let’s focus on the needs of the lost.
• We must be consumed with reaching them for Christ.
• If we fail, those whom we love, who are lost, will die forever.

Freedom … Very Costly

Joshua 3:11-4:1-3, 6-7

The blessings of America are not about politics. They are about the Hand of God working through a Christian nation.

1. In God we trust.

Joshua 3:13

Coming out of the wilderness across the Jordan River was very important. God desired the people to see that it was not the military power that would precede the invasion and cross the barrier. It was the Ark of the Covenant that represented Almighty God. “In God we trust” is the forerunner to our freedom, and the reason we have won our conflicts. It’s God’s favor.

2. Courage is not questioned.

Joshua 3:17

Joshua told the priests to march across the Jordan with the Ark of the Covenant. As they marched, the water backed up. The priest stood firm on dry ground for hours, holding back the water. Courage is not questioned by those who have served this nation. Courage and perseverance took place to protect our freedom as a Christian, free nation.

3. We must remember.

Joshua 4:6, 7

Joshua was sure that Israel did not forget what God had done. As a nation, we must not forget

• why we are free.
• the foundation of our freedom.
• the battles we have fought.
• why we fight, and
• those who paid the price.

Be a Godly Man

1 Timothy 3:4

1. Boys will be boys.

1 Samuel 2:12

Eli was the judge and high priest of Israel. He was the one who anointed Samuel to be judge over Israel. He was a good and honest man; however, he failed to manage his family. He was weak in the disciplines of leading, influencing, and correcting his children in spiritual and behavioral issues.

2. Big boys don’t cry.

John 11:35

The shortest verse in the Bible speaks about mercy, compassion, love, tenderness, and relationships. It reveals a tender, compassionate part of our Lord. Weeping is not easy for some men; however, every Christian man should have a heart of tenderness, compassion, and love and never become so hard and calloused that they cannot attend to the needs of their family spiritually and emotionally.

Luke 15:18-20.

3. Like father – like son.

Joshua 24:15

Joshua said, “If you are going to be like me, you will serve the Lord.” None of us is perfect. However, good families, great kids, and happy homes are not mistakes or accidents.

Sir, may those who know and love you say, “He’s a godly man!”

Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?

Genesis 1:2, 27

Today’s question may be the most asked in Christianity. Listed below are a few reasons why bad things happen:

1. We are victims of a broken world.

Genesis 1, 2, and 3; John 16:33

Being a Christian does not keep you from facing the influence of difficulty in the world in which we live. We will be adversely affected, tempted, and tried in every way, whether we’re a Christian or not. The Scripture says we are more than conquerors.

2. Maybe you brought it on yourself.

There are direct consequences for a sinful, prideful, unruly life. Galatians 6:7. A man reaps what he sows.

3. Maybe God wants to do something supernatural.

John 9 reveals the story of the guy who was born blind. In John 9:3, Jesus said, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned. But this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.”

4. When bad things are happening, God is doing something in you.

James 1:2-3

Trials and troubles develop perseverance when we stay true to God. He will bring a result that brings Him glory. God’s love surpasses any pain that we experience. God is alive and at the right hand of the Father making intercession for us right now!

Why Hasn’t God Answered My Prayers?

John 14:13, 14

Maybe you’ve prayed about a circumstance that was not answered, causing you to ask, “Why didn’t You answer my prayer, Lord?” John 14:13, 14. Let’s look at four possible reasons why God may not answer our prayer:

1. Maybe it’s because you have a broken relationship.

Your vertical relationship with God manifests your horizontal relationship with people.

Mark 11:24-25; Matthew 5:23-24

2. Maybe you have wrong motives when you pray.

James 4:3; Proverbs 13:11; Proverbs 16:2

3. Maybe you don’t believe God will do it.

Mark 9:21-23

We know that our faith matters. We hear, “It is impossible to please God without faith.” We should pray with hearts of sincerity, confess it, and then say, “Lord, Your will be done.” James 1:6, 7

4. Maybe God has something different in mind.

1 John 5:14-15

The Scripture declares that if we have confidence in God, asking anything according to His will, He hears us. Prayer reminds me that I’m not in control and keeps me close to Jesus, depending on His will. Prayer is not so much about my wants as it is about learning to desire God’s will. I believe God can answer my prayer. But if He doesn’t, I still believe! I know that God is able!

Women…God’s Blessings

Ruth 1:16, 17; 2:1-12

Our text is the wonderful story of Naomi and Ruth, a mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law. The circumstances are somewhat unusual, but the story is very impacting. We must understand that a woman is God’s best and most refined creation. God’s Word tells us to honor our women.

Proverbs 31:31

1. A good woman is faithful.

Ruth 1:16

Faithfulness is a steadfast act of allegiance. It is to be conscientious of one obligation. A faithful woman keeps herself beautiful, both inside and out. She serves her family, often without compliments. She manages her children with great patience. She serves her spouse with an open heart. She overcomes trials with God’s help. She doesn’t know how or when to stop serving others.

2. A good woman is humble.

Ruth 2:10

When Boaz welcomed Ruth to glean the field, she bowed to the ground in humility. Humility says, “I don’t need to be significant. I am not pretentious, haughty, or proud.”

3. A good woman is sacrificial.

Ruth 2:11

Ruth’s sacrificial effort came to the attention of Boaz. He said he had heard of her faithfulness, humility, and sacrifice toward Naomi. Women make sacrifices every day for the same reason that Ruth was faithful and sacrificial toward Naomi. She loved her. The heart of God is most revealed through the heart of women!

Fight for Better

Judges 6:11-16; 7:9-16

What do you do when all you see is pain, despair, unfulfilled dreams, and no hope for the future? That was the situation for Gideon.

1. What does God see in you and me?

Judges 6:12.

Gideon was disturbed by the lack of spirituality of his people and the bondage they were enduring.

Judges 2:10; Judges 2:11-13.

The Israelites entered the Promised Land with a wilderness mentality. They didn’t embrace the total plan of God’s favor. Getting by was enough for them, and they did not maximize the opportunity.

2. How can God use us?

Judges 6:15.

Every great leader embraces the characteristics of humility. Proverbs 22:4; Matthew 18:4. When God calls someone, He doesn’t look at his appearance, physical strength, education, resume, or unique ability. God looks at the heart and willingness to follow.

Romans 12:3; James 4:10.

3. What does God desire from anyone?

Judges 7:15.

Israel was loved by God, and they constantly turned their backs upon Him. Gideon was a man of faith and Israel became a feared nation because of Gideon’s faith.

What does God see in you?

God desires to use you; is it possible?

Is your heart ready to hear from God?

Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table, Part 4

Psalm 23:1-6

If you sin and fail, does it mean God is finished with you and your usefulness. to the Kingdom of God? The enemy uses guilt and shame as tools; how do you deal with these issues? Proverbs 28:13.

Guilt is the position of being accountable for sins and shortcomings. Shame is the feeling of being defined by your sins and shortcomings.

Shame acknowledges guilt; it is a powerfully destructive force. Genesis 2:25.

What brings shame? Sin. Even then, God had a plan to deal with the fall, sinfulness, and wickedness. Jesus, on the cross, bought grace which cancels your spiritual guilt and sets you free.

There are consequences to sin. Isaiah 6:5. At Jesus’ resurrection and His power over death, He freely offered forgiveness and eradicated guilt and shame. Jesus set you free. 1 John 1:9.

Grace cancels guilt and shame, but it also redefines you. You go from failure to family.

The enemy wants to define you by your scars; Jesus wants to define you by His scars.

The grace of Jesus removes your old identity and replaces it with a brand-new identity.

1 John 3:1; Isaiah 30:21; Romans 8:1.

The enemy desires you to lose and to stay in that mindset.

Psalm 34:5.

Take your place at the table and allow Him to sit in fellowship with you!

Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table, Part 3

Psalm 23:1-6

We live in an environment that isn’t perfect, but one that constantly presents temptation, depression, hopelessness, and discouragement. It causes us to stay at a level in our relationship with God that is not happy, joyful, and fulfilling.

But because of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, we are freed from the pull of sin and sin’s temptations. That doesn’t mean we’re never tempted; we’re tempted every day. We walk through dark valleys every day. 1 Corinthians 15:57.

We have to train our minds, perspectives, and understanding to believe that we have been redeemed because of the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. 1 John 5:4; Philippians 3:10.

We need to remember who we are; we’re saints. 2 Corinthians 5:17 Jeremiah 17:9; Ezekiel 36:26; Galatians 2:20; 1 Timothy 1:15. You must build safeguards in the way that you live, and keep away from the door of temptation. Romans 13:14; Hebrews 12:1-2; 1 Thessalonians 3:8. The Bible says there is no condemnation to those who live according to the Word of God in Christ.

Close the door to temptation. Don’t allow the enemy to sit at your table; just enjoy your seat. It was bought and paid for by the Sacrificial Lamb.

Get to know Him and learn to trust Him. Watch what will happen in your walk with Almighty God!

Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table

Part 1: How to Win the Battle of Your Mind

Psalm 23:1-6

Today, we begin a look at nine words that will change our lives –

Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table.

Psalm 23:5: “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.”

Our enemy is found in 1 Peter 5:8.

• An “Even though…I will” faith.

Daniel 3:17-18; Habakkuk 3:17-18.

• An ancient song brings new strength.

John 10:1-5; 2 Peter 2:17-20.

• Why it’s good to be led. Psalm 23:4.

• A table in the conflict. Exodus 25:30.

• A meal with Almighty God.

When you sit at the table with the Good Shepherd, it becomes a holy place, a place of nourishment, a place of comfort, and a place of security.

• Taking back our freedom.

John 2:22.

• Your swift and vicious enemy.

John 8:44(a); John 10:10.

God will grant us an opportunity to repent and know the truth, and the truth will set us free from the trap of the enemy. It will allow us to sit at the table with the Good Shepherd. We then understand how to say to the enemy,

“You have no place to sit at my table!”

Easter – The Miracle of Redemption

Luke 24:1-12

The resurrection is the key that brings to life the truth of the message of Jesus. God desires that every person come to faith in Christ.

John 3:16 (The Message)

1. Religion Vs. relationship.

Luke 24:5

Jesus is not an institution; He is a real person who died for our sins.

Revelation 3:20-22 (The Message)

2. Remember the good stuff.

Luke 24:6, 7

Life is filled with the pain of death, disappointment, family problems, financial challenges, physical pain, and failures of all kinds.

Jesus said, “Remember only one thing can solve the eternal damning of our soul and it’s knowing and embracing Jesus Christ.”

Romans 6:23; 1 Peter 3:18

3. Simply believe. Luke 24:11.

Believing is not an emotional thing; it’s a decision of the mind and heart.

Luke 24:25

Some of Jesus’ last words are found in Luke 24:46, 47 “He told them, ‘This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.’”

All we need to do is believe.

• Relationship is what Jesus desires.
• Remember the good stuff.
• Simply believe.

It’s Not What You Think

John 12:13(b)

• The Crowd

Their Perspective – What’s in it for me?

John 12:13(b) (NIV); John 19:15(a) (NIV).

Result: My tendency to be self-centered leads to deception.

• Religious Leaders

Their Perspective – I’m in control.

John 12:19 (LB).

Result: My desire for control creates an unteachable heart.

• The disciples

Their Perspective – Not like this.

Matthew 16:21-22 (NLT).

Result: My lack of trust in God’s plan produces blindness.

What happens when Jesus enters your life or situation:

1. Jesus creates a beautiful disruption.

Matthew 4:19-20 (NLT).

Once conscious thinking ceases, ingrained patterns take over.

2. Jesus brings a new perspective.

John 12:16 (NLT).

Perspectives must be framed by faith, not feelings.

3. Jesus offers you a hosanna moment.

Relief from the crushing weight.

Matthew 26:38 (NLT)

Room to breathe.

Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)

The key: Surrender.

Matthew 26:39 (NLT)

Victory – Focused on the Future

Ephesians 2:14-22

1. The Church is the Body of Christ.

Ephesians 2:19, 20

The Church is not a committee, building, relief organization, religious supermarket, or crisis center. Though we are some of these things, in part, not one is the whole. We are the Body of Christ, which is also the Bride of Christ, of which He is the head. Ephesians 5:1, 2.

2. The Church is to develop spiritual maturity.

Ephesians 4:12, 13, 16

We are to disciple believers for Christ because all are expected to work in unity.

Ephesians 4:16; Philippians 2:4, 5, 7.

Our Vision – We Believe Everyone Should:

• ATTEND – Be consistent and attend weekend or mid-week worship services.
• SERVE – Join the Dream Team (Volunteers) – everyone has an opportunity to serve.
• JOIN – Do life with others and join a Small Group.

3. The Church is to evangelize the unbelieving world.

Matthew 28:19, 20; Acts 1:8; Galatians 6:10; Hebrews 10:24-26

May we forge ahead with our mission!

You Missed

Numbers 27:12-14

This message is about preparation for the promise. Why did people who did not make it to the Promised Land not obtain the promise?

1. Disobedience. (Moses)

Numbers 20:11, 12

Moses had come a long way with the Israelites. He faced many challenges, battles, miracles, and supernatural events. God declared that the act of disobedience cost Moses the promise. Disobedience is an act of rebellion.

2. Lack of faith. (the Israelites)

Numbers 14:11

Moses had declared his faith repeatedly and many miracles had been given to the Israelites. Yet, they could never grasp the faith factor. Numbers 14:2-4. They chose not to exercise their faith.

Numbers 14:10-12; Numbers 14:20-23.

3. Compromise. (Aaron)

Exodus 32:21

Moses had ascended to Mt. Sinai to hear from God, but the people became restless. They asked Aaron to lead. He didn’t stand his ground and declare the truth, leading them into idol worship. Revelation 2:2-4. God says to look from where you have fallen, repent, and reestablish a positive resolve.

May we have an obedient heart, exercise our faith daily, and never compromise our belief in God’s power and purpose for His church!

WHAT TEST?

ROBERT MORRIS

OVERVIEW

We are not supposed to test God; however, when it comes to tithing, God says, “Try Me now in this.” God desires His children to bring their tithes and offerings into the storehouse of the church. When we do this, God says He will pour out His blessings upon us, and He will rebuke the devourer for our sakes. Tithing is a test of the heart.

QUICK RECAP

Key Scriptures:

• Malachi 3:6–12
• Genesis 14:18–20
• Deuteronomy 26:1–2,13–15

Tithing is a test.

The word tithe means a “tenth part.” Throughout Scripture, the number ten represents testing. God tests our hearts through the tithe, and tithing is the only area where God says we can test Him too. If we tithe, we are under blessing. If we don’t tithe, we are under a curse.

Tithing is biblical.

Leviticus 27:30 says, “All the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord’s. It is holy to the Lord.” Moses said: I have removed the holy tithe from my house and taken it to the place where You have chosen to make Your Name abide. Jesus takes it further by scolding the Pharisees and saying

Tithing is a blessing.

God gave the command that all His people are to tithe; however, with our obedience comes a blessing. The believer’s tithe helps support the work of the church, the priest, and the ministry to people. The place where we receive our “spiritual food” is the place where we are to pay our tithes. Obeying God’s Word through tithing breaks the curse and invites God’s blessings and provision for our lives and finances.

PERSONAL APPLICATION

This week, take time to really think about, and honestly reflect on, these three areas of your life as they relate to tithing: treasure, time, and talent.

Treasure

Are you currently tithing? If not, what are the reasons?

How can you overcome the things in your heart that keep you from tithing? Ask the Holy Spirit to help you and make a plan to begin tithing.

Time

What would a tithe of your time awake be for one day? Do you currently spend a tithe of your time with the Lord, helping others, or investing in God’s kingdom? If not, what are some practical ways you could give a tithe of your time awake to the Lord each day?

Do you think God also blesses your time the same way He does when you tithe money?

Talent

What do you think a tithe of your talents would look like?

Do you think it would be possible to give a percentage of your talents to building God’s kingdom? If so, what would that mean for you?

What are some trade skills, professional knowledge, talents, gifts, or abilities you could use to invest in God’s kingdom?

Am I Generous?

Robert Morris

OVERVIEW

A very important question we all need to ask ourselves is “Am I generous?” Selfishness is the enemy of generosity and tries to take the place of God.

A generous heart stems from a grateful heart. The most extravagant gift you can give God is yourself. We can be generous toward God once we realize that He is more than generous in His love toward us. God is extravagant and He rewards those who give generously.

QUICK RECAP

Key Scriptures: John 12:1–8, Mark 14:8–9

The Enemy of Generosity.

There is an age-old battle of God being generous and Satan being selfish. Selfishness promotes, protects, and provides for self.

Selfishness tries to take God’s place in our lives. As followers of Christ, we are called to abandon everything and give all we have to the advancement of God’s Kingdom. Regarding the issue of money,

God is not only testing our hearts to see if we can handle money, He is testing our hearts to see if we can handle true riches.

The Extravagance of Generosity

In John 12:1–8, Mary gives a generous gift to the Lord by anointing Jesus and pouring one year’s wages on His feet. Mary passed the test of the heart; however, Judas did not. The most extravagant gift we can give God is ourselves.

There are three levels of giving:

Tithes, offerings, and extravagant offerings.

If you get to the first level, you will be able to go to the second and third levels because the curse is removed, and the windows of heaven are opened.

A generous heart stems from a grateful heart.

The Reward of Generosity

Generosity gives not to be rewarded, but God always rewards generosity when we give with the right heart. God rewards extravagantly, and He wants to reward us when we fight through selfishness. One of the extravagant ways God has rewarded us already is the gift of eternal life through His Son, Jesus Christ.

We become more Christ-like when we are a people of generosity and extravagant giving.

The Principle of First

Robert Morris

OVERVIEW

The principle of first is about making sure God is first in our lives. In Exodus, God told Moses to consecrate the firstborn among the children and the beasts. Throughout Scripture, the firstborn always belonged to the Lord. Our obedience to God’s principles reveals the condition of our hearts.

QUICK RECAP | Key Scripture: Exodus 13:1–13

• The firstborn must be sacrificed or redeemed.

In Exodus, the firstborn among beasts that were clean had to be sacrificed, while the firstborn of the unclean had to be redeemed. These two classifications are examples of what was to come. God’s firstborn Son, Jesus, was clean and had to be sacrificed. We are unclean, and therefore Jesus was sacrificed for our redemption. God gave Jesus first, in faith, even when we were sinners. Jesus is God’s tithe.

• The firstfruits must be offered.

Proverbs 3:9–10 says that we are to honor the Lord with our possessions and with the firstfruits of all our increase. When we do this, we invite God’s blessing into our lives, and “your barns will be filled with plenty and your vats will overflow.” In Genesis 4, God honored Abel’s offering but not Cain’s. The reason is because Abel‘s offering was from the firstborn of his flock; however, Cain’s offering was not from his firstfruits.

• The tithe must be first.

There are many blessings that go along with tithing, but it is the principle of faith and putting God first that initiates these blessings. The first portion, the tithe, is the portion that redeems the rest. God does not desire a legalistic begrudging response; He desires our hearts to be submitted to Him in joy and faith that His principles are true.

PERSONAL APPLICATION

This week, take time to really think about and honestly reflect upon these three areas of your life as they relate to the principle of first: treasure, time, and talent. As you think seriously about these things, journal your responses to these questions:

• Treasure – How does the principle of first apply to your finances? If you have started tithing by faith, how does this principle affect when and how you tithe? In what way does this stretch your faith?

• Time – How does the principle of first apply to your time? In addition to the firstfruits of your day, what are some other blocks of time where you could give your first to God?

• Talent – If you were to give the firstfruits of your talents, how would that look? In what ways can you honor God at the beginning of everything you do? How can you remind yourself to do this on a regular basis?

Relationship Points

1 Kings 12:1-11

Let’s look at some opinions that are thought-provoking and hopefully will stir our hearts and minds to action:

1. Don’t marry who you can live with but marry who you cannot live without.

2. No two people agree on everything unless one is dead.

Matthew 5:9 (The Message)

3. A marriage or any relationship that allows anger to accumulate is headed for hard times.

Ephesians 4:26 (The Message)

4. One of the real killers of marriage is that we think the other person is responsible for our happiness, or lack thereof.

Philippians 4:6, 7 (The Message)

5. Conflict must be creative.

6. Marriage is often like a bird dealing with a cage.

7. Marriage takes more than 50-50. A healthy marriage is 100% given, nothing withheld.

8. To win the argument and lose a friend is stupidity.

9. For every negative comment made, you must give five positive compliments.

Philippians 4:8 (The Message)

10. Relationships united will stand; divided, they will fall.

Mark 3:25 (The Message)

11. To do everything the same old way, in the same old place, at the same old time, is going to become a death trap.

12. Don’t plan your future by using your past.

13. The mouth becomes a death trap; guard your words!

Matthew 12:36, 37 (The Message)

14. We live in a push-shove world.

Galatians 6:2 (The Message)

Undaunted – Part 4

Nehemiah 6:1-3

How do we finish strong amid distractions? Nehemiah is our example. He came to the realization that the closer you get to doing what God wants done, the harder the enemy will fight to stop you. You don’t face opposition for doing something wrong. You face spiritual opposition when you’re doing something right.

Below are two of the enemy’s strategies to lure you off the wall instead of remaining and doing what God desires.

1. The enemy will try to distract you.

Nehemiah 6:2-3

2. The enemy will try to discredit you.

When you do anything for the glory of God, your spiritual enemy will try to discredit you.

(1) Discredit you by spreading rumors.

Nehemiah 6:5

When you know that you’re called to the task and the devil is coming against you, you are doing something right.

(2) Tempt you to compromise.

Nehemiah 6:10, 12, 13

The closer you get to doing what God wants done, the harder your enemy will fight to distract and discredit you. When you surrender to Jesus, and you let His gifts be used upon your life, you can change more than you ever realized through Christ Jesus.

Undaunted – Part 3

Nehemiah 4:1-3

Today’s message will guide us in defeating discouragement and overcoming opposition to finish what God has called us to do and be.

We continue our look at Nehemiah, a Jew, who was serving as a cupbearer for King Artaxerxes in Persia. Nehemiah learned that the walls of his homeland were broken down and the gates were burned. His heart was broken, and he thought that somebody needed to do something. The Lord spoke to him and said, “It’s going to be you.” As he was making progress in rebuilding the wall, opposition inspired by the enemy began to oppose them.

We don’t face opposition because we’re doing something wrong. We face opposition because we’re doing something right!

1. The enemy will try to discourage you from the outside.

Nehemiah 4:1-3.

• You will face obstacles.

• You will face criticism.

2. The enemy will oppose you from the inside out.

Nehemiah 4:10, 14.

When you’re discouraged and feeling overwhelmed, remember the Lord your God. Remember not only who God is, but fight for a cause.

We do not surrender; we do not give up; we are undaunted by the power of the Holy Spirit. God is greater!

Revival, Let’s Believe Together

Isaiah 42:1-17

We know there are many problems in society today, but we also know the answers to all the challenges! Isaiah is the writer of our text, and he gives us words of truth and words of warning.

1. Time of spiritual renewal. Isaiah 42:1

Ezekiel 1:4, 5, 12, 28; Luke 4:18; Acts 4:30-32; Matthew 18:20

2. Time for redemption. Isaiah 42:6, 7.

Isaiah 42:9; John 3:16, 17

• We are told not to judge. Luke 6:37

• We are no longer condemned. Romans 8:1

• Our sins are removed. Isaiah 43:25

• Jesus’ blood conquers Satan’s power. Hebrews 9:22

• The Spirit of God holds Satan at a distance. John 10:29

Unless we seek God and have revival, redemption will not be accomplished. Our job is to tell the world that Jesus saves. Matthew 25:13. This is our best opportunity for reaching lost souls!

3. Time of judgment coming. Isaiah 42:13-14.

1 Corinthians 15:52; Matthew 13:41-42; Matthew 24:16-21

May God help us experience a revival of the Holy Spirit!

Undaunted - Part 2

Nehemiah 2:4-9, 17-18

To make a difference in your life and your world, you don’t have to be the best. You must care the most! To make a huge difference in whatever God speaks to you about, you can be as ordinary as anyone you’ve ever known, but when you respond to God’s call, word, and plan, you become a majority with God functioning in and through your heart and life. God will take your burden and empower you to become the leader who will make a difference in your life and your family.

1. If you’re going to be the kind of leader who makes a difference, you’re going to need to define the mission clearly.

Nehemiah 2:4-52

2. A change-your-world leader must make Spirit-anointed plans carefully.

Nehemiah’s mission was to rebuild the walls. The questions were, “How is he going to do it?” and “Who is he going to need to make it happen?”

1. Have letters to the governors of Trans-Euphrates so that they will provide me safe conduct until I arrive in Judah.
2. May I have a letter to Asaph, the keeper of the King’s forest, so that he will give me timber to make beams for the gates…and the city wall will be rebuilt. Nehemiah 2:17-18.

John Wesley said, “Light yourself on fire with passion, and people will come from miles to watch you burn.”

When you get excited, and you share what God is doing in your life, other people will become inspired and desire to follow your vision and your dream.

Undaunted

Nehemiah 1:1-5

Let’s look at three principles that show how God uses ordinary world-changers:

1. God uses ordinary people who will sit down and cry.

Nehemiah 1:4. What breaks your heart as it breaks God’s heart?

2. God uses those who kneel down and pray.

Nehemiah 1:4. Many people would say, “I don’t know what I can do about this big need. I’m just one person.” You’re overlooking the power of prayer and fasting. Some of the most intimate and important times in your life are when you spend time fasting and praying. You plus God become the majority. We’re ordinary people, but we serve an extraordinary God.

3. God uses those who stand up to act.

When Nehemiah stopped praying, he stood up to act. He did not shift the burden to someone else, or some other organization. He didn’t wait for someone else to move first. Nehemiah 2:3; Nehemiah 2:5. Nehemiah said to the King, “Send me and I can rebuild it.”

May we fast and pray like we never have.

May we weep like we never have.

May we get up and act and believe that the devil is a liar and that all things are possible through Christ Jesus!

Don’t Overlook the Simple

2 Kings 5:1-15

Miracles are works of a supernatural origin, and that supernatural origin is the power of Almighty God. God desires to give us miracles for the purpose of revealing:

• Himself to us
• His power to us
• His blessing to us
• His love toward us
  

Psalm 84:11.

Our example today is Naaman.

2 Kings 5:1

1. God used the insignificant to direct him.

2 Kings 5:2-4; 1 Corinthians 2:11; Psalm 37:23

2. God used the unreasonable to reveal the supernatural.

2 Kings 5:10

Naaman did the practical.

2 Kings 5:7; Isaiah 55:9

3. God honored obedience.

2 Kings 5:12-13

Naaman’s desire for a miracle was greater than his pride, the proven protocol, and his own honor. With his own servant’s encouragement, he decided to seek God’s way. 2 Kings 5:14-15.

Don’t overlook the simple things:

• God will use the insignificant.
• God will use the unreasonable.
• God always honors obedience.

A Savior is Born

Isaiah 9:6; John 14:27

Let There Be Peace

“A child has been born for us and God has given us a Son…He will be called…the Prince of Peace!” Isaiah 9:6

Jesus: “I am giving you the gift of peace, the kind of peace that only I can give. It isn’t like the peace that this world gives.” John 14:27.

3 Kinds of Peace Jesus Offers You

1. Peace with God.

2 Corinthians 5:18; Romans 5:1; Romans 5:10

2. Peace within me.

Colossians 3:15

3. Peace with others.

Ephesians 2:16; Galatians 3:28

3 Essentials to Enjoying God’s Peace

1. I must experience a moment of clarity.

Ephesians 1:18; Luke 11:35

2. I must express an attitude of humility.

James 4:6; Isaiah 26:12; Psalm 34:18; Philippians 4:6-7

3. I must expect Jesus to help me.

Matthew 11:28-29

• Come to Jesus
• Connect with Jesus
• Let Jesus change me.

“You, Lord give true peace to those who depend on You, because they trust You.” Isaiah 26:3

A Savior is Born

Luke 1:1-66

In Search of Wisdom

Three wise women were an integral part of the Christmas story. Each of these women faced major obstacles in her life.

1. Elizabeth faced great disappointment.

Luke 1:5-25, 56-66

Elizabeth and Zechariah had wanted children and had been unable to conceive. Now they were both too old. Luke 1:13, 20, 24-25. Elizabeth was blessed because she chose to trust God’s plan instead of becoming bitter. A wise person trusts God’s plan and timing, even when it doesn’t make sense.

2. Mary faced a great change.

Luke 1:26-56

Mary was frightened and confused when she learned she was pregnant and that the father of her baby was going to be God. She was fearful of criticism. She was a wise woman who surrendered to the will of God. Mary was blessed because she chose to believe God’s Word instead of her fears.

3. Anna faced a great loss.

Luke 2:22-23, 36-38

Anna could have been miserable and constantly filled with grief, but she took her life and her loss and committed it to serving God. Anna was blessed because she chose to focus on God’s presence and talk to everyone about Jesus!

A Savior is Born

Matthew 2:1-12

Come Let Us Adore Him

1. Start with a sincere desire.

Matthew 2:1

2. Develop an expectant spirit.

Matthew 2:2

3. Choose to express joy.

Matthew 2:10

4. Decide to humble yourself.

Matthew 2:11(a); Luke 1:38

5. Plan to give gifts.

Matthew 2:11(b)

THEY GAVE HIM GOLD

They recognized Him as a King

Give Him your BEST

THEY GAVE HIM FRANKINCENSE

They recognized Him as a priest

Give Him your WORST

THEY GAVE HIM MYRRH

They recognized Him as Savior

Give Him your ALL

6. End with an obedient response.

Matthew 2:12; 1 Peter 2:9 (Msg)

A Savior is Born

Luke 2:1-7

Where are you Christmas?

1. Busyness (The Innkeeper) Luke 2:6

2. Familiarity (The Religious Leaders) Isaiah 31:4

3. Fear (King Herod) Matthew 2:3; 2 Timothy 6:21

How Not to Miss Christ This Christmas

1. STOP filling my life with less important things. Psalm 39:6; Psalm 46:10; Proverbs 10:27

2. LOOK closely at why Jesus came. Matthew 2:8; Jeremiah 29:13

3. LISTEN to the good news of Christmas. Luke 2:10-11; John 10:10; John 3:17

For a New Life at Christmas…

STOP! 1 Peter 2:24 (NCV)

LOOK! Isaiah 45-22 (NLT)

LISTEN! 2 Corinthians 6:2 (TEV)

Positive Action = Trust

Isaiah 31:1-5

1. Be careful to trust God. Isaiah 31:1.

When the people of God were faced with war, insecurity, looming disaster, eminent failure, and crushed dreams, it appeared that many of them wanted to retreat to Egypt. They thought they needed to fight fire with fire. Isaiah said, “Woe to those who put their faith in Egypt and their resources.”

Our world places security in man’s wisdom, strength in the inner man, peace in doing good deeds, security in wealth, and security in man’s job. Because of that, we have created a faithless society with less need for the supernatural. God’s counsel is the only advice we need.

2. God will not ignore man’s distrust. Isaiah 31:4.

We are the Church, the Bride of Christ. Joshua 24:19(b) “…He is a holy God; He is a jealous God…” God wants us to run to Him when we’re in need, call on Him when we’re in panic or despair, seek His wisdom and guidance, and rely only upon Him. God sees our “not trusting Him” as distrust. Psalm 55:22 (The Message); 1 Peter 5:7, 8 (The Message).

God declares that every man who does not trust Him will:

• Fail
• Be Destroyed
• Be Disappointed
  

3. God will preserve those who trust Him. Isaiah 31:5.

Isaiah shares that those who run to Egypt will be disappointed or destroyed. Those who remain in Jerusalem, and place their trust in God, will

• Be Delivered
• Be Cared For
  
• Have Their Needs Met
  
• Be Protected

God honors faith and perseverance. God operates in the supernatural.

• He doesn’t need weapons.
• He doesn’t need horses.
• He doesn’t need an army.
• He doesn’t need history.

All He needs is one person who chooses to stand up and say,

• I know what it looks like.
• I know there isn’t much hope, but I choose to trust and believe in God.

Practice What You Believe

Romans 8:28-31; Pastor Blackburn

God has given each of us faith. Faith is so important that God declares we cannot please Him without faith. Faith is that which is “seen” and “felt” in our hearts well before it becomes a reality.

1. God works for our good. Romans 8:28(a)

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him…”

Three things God does for us as He works for our good:

1. He prevents. Psalm 91:1-4
2. He protects. Psalm 91:7
3. He preserves. 1 Kings 19:18

When we walk in faith with God, He moves mountains, stays the hand of evil, makes the crooked paths straight, binds the hand of short supply, and works on our behalf, for His glory. Malachi 3:11, 12.

2. You are part of a divine plan. Romans 8:28(b)

“…who have been called according to His purpose.”

The faith walk starts with love that is passionate and cannot be contained by boundaries, discouragement, pain, or apathy. It is a love that is beyond belief and understanding.

Example: Joseph. Genesis 45. God had a divine plan for Joseph and his people.

3. Be sustained by God’s power. Romans 8:31

“What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

Our lives in Christ, through faith, and our purpose in life, have the seal of anointing and adoption upon them. Because it is spiritual, which notes an eternal value, we will face opposition – doubt, fear, frustration, and demonic interference.

Hebrews 11:36, 37. Hebrews 11:39-40 “These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.”

Hebrews 12:1, 2(a); Genesis 45:5. God is knocking on your heart with a fire that cannot be contained. It is love and faith that is of supernatural existence.

• God is working for your good.
• You are part of a divine plan.
• He will sustain you by His power.

Slaying Giants, Part 3

Proverbs 29:25; Pastor Blackburn

“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.”

1. What the fear of rejection does to us

Allows others to manipulate us.

Causes us to conform to peer pressure.

Keeps us from speaking the truth.

Prevents us from giving and receiving love.

Causes shyness and loneliness.

Produces depression and unhappiness.

Silences our sharing about Christ.

John 12:43-44.

2. How to overcome the fear of rejection

Put God in first place.

Psalm 27:1; Psalm 119-39-42; 2 Timothy 2:15

Put people in their place.

Isaiah 51:12; Galatians 1:10; Romans 8:31

Put yourself in the proper place.

Psalm 8:5; Ephesians 1:4; 2 Corinthians 10:18; Psalm 27:10

Slaying Giants, Part 2

2 Timothy 1:7; Pastor Blackburn

Last week, we said that we are to stand up and remember that God knows where we are. This week, we’re talking about how to overcome fear.

There is some fear that should not be overcome; it’s not always a bad thing. Matthew 10:28. Jesus said that we are to live with one eye on eternity, with the awareness that life does not end at the grave and that we have no promise of the next breath. Constructive fear keeps us alert and helps us deal with the realities of life and eternity.

Then, there’s destructive fear, which nips at your emotions and mindset and does everything it can to paralyze you, keeping you from being happy and joyful. 2 Timothy 1:7. God wants us to conquer those debilitating, paralyzing worries that plague our lives.

1. It’s important to know the origin of our fears.

2 Corinthians 10:5

2. It’s imperative that we expose lies about our fears!

John 8:44; Psalm 15:2; Psalm 46:1; Psalm 34:4; Joshua 1:9

“God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power and love and a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

Edge Of Eternity," Part 1

1. Death Is Definite!

"Each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him." Hebrews 9:27–28 (NLT)

2. Our Body And Soul Will Become Detached!

"Don’t be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the one who can destroy both body and soul in hell." Matthew 10:28 (GW)

Those who believe in me will have life even if they die. And everyone who lives and believes in me will never die." John 11:25b–26a (NCV)

3. We Will Face Judgement!

"People are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment." Hebrews 9:27 (NIV)

The Great White Throne Judgement

"Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books." Revelation 20:11–12 (NIV)

"Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire." Revelation 20:15 (NIV)

The Judgement Seat Of Christ

"For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat." Romans 14:10b (NIV)

"We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." 2 Corinthians 5:10 (NIV)

"The quality of each person’s work will be seen when the Day of Christ exposes it. For on that Day fire will reveal everyone’s work; the fire will test it and show its real quality. If what was built on the foundation survives the fire, the builder will receive a reward. But if anyone’s work is burnt up, then he will lose it; but he himself will be saved, as if he had escaped through the fire." 1 Corinthians 3:13–15 (TEV)

Love Lifted Me

Revelation 2:1-7

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The church at Ephesus was active but deficient in love. Matthew 23:27 (NIV). May we learn from this church and discover how the Spirit would have us respond.

1. Someone has moved.
2. Remember your beginnings.
3. Repent and change.

1. Someone has moved. Revelation 2:4 (NIV)

Ephesus was a commercial, political, and religious center for western Asia. The temple of Diana was located there. Diana was the goddess of fertility. Paul labored there for three years and built a strong church. As a result, many who once worshipped the goddess now had turned to Christ. It caused many who supplied silver to those who offered sacrifice to Diana, to lose trade and money. This church was great, but something happened. They moved away from God. They became too busy, full of pride, consumed with making money, and complacent.

They were still full of good works. They made money and they tithed. They prayed, but without compassion. It was the prayer of the Pharisee, "Help me, Lord, I'm worthy." God spoke to John on the Isle of Patmos and said, "I see your works. I see your perseverance. I know you have not become weary. What's the problem?" They had become divided. They had lost their first love. They were bankrupt in passion, and they were building a house on sinking sand. Matthew 7:26, 27 (NIV).

2. Remember your beginnings. Revelation 2:5a (NIV)

On every surveyor's map, you will see three letters - P.O.B. It means simply, "Point of beginning." In other words, every part of the accuracy of the survey is dependent upon where the starting point was located. John said, "Remember the height (the beginning) from which you have fallen." He challenged them to remember the:

• Thrill of knowing the truth.
• Joy of being liberated from selfish bondage.
• Happiness of being guilt-free.
• Passion of loving so much, it dominated their actions.
• Privilege of close fellowship with God.

God spoke through Isaiah in Isaiah 1:18 (NIV). This church is challenged to return to the point of beginning and this would enable them to find a treasure now buried in sinful ways.

Example of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-24:

• Had all he needed,
• Was heir of his father’s estate,
• Left for greener pastures,
• Came to his senses.

Luke 15:17 (NIV). What did he decide to do about his plight once he remembered his beginnings? He went home! Luke 15:18-20 (NIV). Far too often it takes a real pig pen to cause us to remember the blessing of our first love's beginning.

3. Repent and change. Revelation 2:5b (NIV)

God gave the door of grace a shove open and shoved the road map back to the beginning:

• repent.
• return to your first love.
• re-establish God's place in your heart.

Revelation 3:20 (NIV). True repentance is an admission of wrong, change of actions, and pursuit of God. Jeremiah spoke to the people of Israel in Jeremiah 35:15 (NIV). God gave this church a consequence if they did not repent:

• "I will remove the lampstand from its place."
• "Hear what My Spirit is saying."

In other words, if you do not, “I will remove My Spirit, anointing, and divine favor from your presence.” He also stated that if they would repent,

• He would restore them.
• He would place them in high favor.

Revelation 2:7 (NIV)

• Stay close to God.
• Keep Godly passion alive.
• If you move, repent and seek God's grace!

"Truths to Live By" Part 4

Controlling My Anger

Proverbs 29:11 (LB)

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1. Resolve to control it.

“A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control.”
Proverbs 29:11 (LB)

2. Realize the cost.

“A hot-tempered man...gets into all kinds of trouble.”
Proverbs 29:22 (LB)

“Hot tempers cause arguments.”
Proverbs 15:18 (GN)

“People with hot tempers do foolish things.”
Proverbs 14:17 (GN)

“The fool who provokes his family to anger and resentment will finally have nothing worthwhile left.”
Proverbs 11:29 (LB)

3. Restrain my mouth.

“If you keep your mouth shut, you will stay out of trouble.”
Proverbs 21:23 (NLT)

4. Reflect before reacting.

“A stupid man gives free rein to his anger; a wise man waits and lets it grow cool.”
Proverbs 29:11 (NEB)

“A man’s wisdom gives him patience.”
Proverbs 19:11 (NIV)

Ask myself: Why am I angry? What do I really want?
How can I get it?

5. Release my anger appropriately.

“If you become angry, don’t let your anger lead you into sin.”
Ephesians 4:26 (GN)

“Keep away from angry, short-tempered people, or you will learn to be like them...”
Proverbs 22:24 (NLT)

6. Return good for evil.

“Never pay back evil for evil to anyone...never avenge yourselves. Leave that to God...overcome evil with good.”
Romans 12:17-21 (NLT)

7. Request God’s help.

“Lord, help me control my tongue; help me be careful about what I say.”
Psalm 141:3 (NCV)

“Whatever is in your heart determines what you say.”
Matthew 12:34 (NIV)

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart...”
Colossians 3:15 (NAS)

"Truths to Live By" Part 3

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Deuteronomy 4:15-1

Anything I trust or value more than God is an IDOL.

“For your own good…don’t sin by making an idol in any form.” Deuteronomy 4:15-16 (GN)

I. What happens when I trust anything else more than God?

1. I am disappointed.

“…those who make idols are disillusioned…”Jeremiah 10:14 (GN)

“Of what value is an idol? For he who makes it trusts in his own creation.” Hebrews 2:18 (NIV)

“The poor, deluded fool is trusting something that can give him no help at all. Yet he cannot bring himself to ask: is this thing, this idol…a lie?” Isaiah 44:20 (NLT)

2. I am degraded.

“…you were controlled by dead idols, who led you astray.” 1 Corinthians 12:2 (GN)

“Those who make idols end up like them. So does everyone who trusts them.” Psalm 115:8 (GWT)

II. Why don’t I trust God more?

Because I don’t really know God.

“Those who know the Lord trusts Him…” Psalm 9:10 (NCV)

III. Why should I trust God completely?

1. Because He is the truth.

“We can completely count on Him, for it is impossible for God to lie.” Hebrews 6:18 (LB)

“God will continue to be true even when every person is false.” Romans 3:4 (NCV)

2. Because He loves me.

“We know how much God loves us, so we have put our trust in Him…because God’s perfect love drives out fear.” 1 John 4:16, 18 (NCV)

3. Because He is in control.

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love god and are called according to His purposes for them.” Romans 8:28 (NLT)

4. Because He will help me.

“Trust the Lord with all your heart, and don’t depend on your own understanding. Remember the Lord in all you do, and He will give you success.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NCV)

“Jesus says, ‘Don’t be afraid. Just trust Me.’” Mark 5:36 (NLT)