Faith Baptist Church of Mason City (Sermons)

In our text this morning, Solomon concludes that earthly wisdom is beneficial, even worthy of our attention. However, his observations reveal that, though beneficial, it doesn’t meet your greatest need or bring lasting satisfaction. 2 Observations: There are benefits to pursuing earthly wisdom (Ecclesiastes 2:12-14). There are realities for everyone to recognize (Ecclesiastes 2:15-17). 2 Realities The wise, along with their earthly wisdom, will eventually be forgotten. The wise will die just like the fool. Application: Application Have you been fooled into pursuing only earthly wisdom that may be beneficial yet, in the end, won’t meet your greatest need? In Ecclesiastes 2:17 Solomon states, “So I hated life”. Why is he so discouraged about life? Are you discouraged about life? Could the answer to Solomon and your discouragement be found in the rest of verse 17?

For years, our society has promoted the belief that life is all about pleasure. You hear it in phrases like, “If it feels good do it!” or “You only live once” (YOLO). But is that true? Is life really all about pleasure? This morning Solomon warns us of three lies concerning living for pleasure. 3 Lies: 1. Pleasure gives my life the joy it needs (Ecclesiastes 2:1-3). 2. Pleasure comes from living my life without limits (Ecclesiastes 2:4-10). 3. Pleasure provides my life with lasting benefits (Ecclesiastes 2:11). Application: 1. Have you been living for temporary joy? Solomon says life is short, (“during the few days of their life.”), so we must remember that lasting joy is not found in the temporary pleasures “under heaven.” 2. Do you see God’s commands or “limits” as unfairly stifling your pleasure? John reminds us they are so “your joy may be full.” 3. In what are you investing your life? Is it found “under the sun”? If so, it won’t have lasting benefits.

Futility is defined as “ineffectiveness or uselessness”. Last week we began looking at Solomon’s life experiences as he learned what life was really all about. Throughout the book of Ecclesiastes, he uses the term “chasing the wind” to describe how life can seem like an exercise in futility. This morning we will see two guidelines for avoiding futility in life. 2 Guidelines: 1. Be sure that your search is thorough (Ecclesiastes 1:12-15). 2. Be sure that your conclusion is correct (Ecclesiastes 1:16-18). Application: 1. When looking for purpose in life have you limited your search to “all that is under heaven”? Solomon reveals that this is not a thorough search. 2. What are you holding on to in your life that has proven to be futile? Don’t get to the end of your life and realize you’ve been holding on to the wrong thing.

What’s the purpose of life? If you asked people, “Is there an ultimate purpose to life?” they might answer, “No, I don’t think so. You do what you can, you get along, if you can make money fine, do whatever makes you happy because all too soon you will be old and you’ll be sick and you won’t be able to enjoy life.” There are a lot of people who have that philosophy. This morning we will begin a study of the book of Ecclesiastes to determine what life is all about. 3 Reasons: 1. Life without purpose is a waste of effort (Ecclesiastes 1:1-3). 2. Life without purpose is a waste of time (Ecclesiastes 1:4-7). 3. Life without purpose is a waste of experiences (Ecclesiastes 1:8-10). Application: 1. Does your life seem to lack purpose? Do you feel like you’re just going through the motions? Solomon reveals this is not how your life was intended to be lived. 2. We’re reminded on a regular basis how quickly time passes. As you get older, do you sense your life is missing something? 3. What clue does Solomon give in verses 3 and 9 concerning where not to look for life’s purpose?

A Message Based on 1 Peter 2:18-25 Big Idea: We must be willing to suffer like Jesus by the power of Jesus. Two reasons to lean into suffering 1. Suffering is a gracious thing. 2. Suffering is our calling. Two roles Jesus plays in our suffering. 1. Jesus is our example. 2. Jesus is our substitute.

Listen as Pastor Tim preaches from Revelation 4.

Over the last several weeks we have experienced a lot of change. Some have described it as a “new normal”. This morning we are going to see that no matter how much has changed there are some things that must remain constant for the church. 4 Constants 1. We must still be devoted to the right things (Acts 2:42). 2. We must still be in awe of what God does (Acts 2:43). 3. We must still be caring towards others (Acts 2:45). 4. We must still be unified in all we do (Acts 2:44, 46-47). Application: 1. Trials often shift our focus away from what should be getting our full attention. Are you devoted to the right things? 2. Recognizing God’s divine presence in our daily lives is necessary if a believer is going to live by faith. Are you in awe of God’s divine presence? 3. The early church’s care for others was a loving response to their faith. Is your faith seen in your actions? How about or church? 4. There will always be disagreements in the church. How does being unified in our doctrine and purpose help in times of disagreement?

Would you consider yourself a faithful person? I’d like to think I’m faithful! As much as we want to be faithful to others and to our responsibilities, we would all have to admit that there have been times when we’ve failed. This morning we will look at the faithfulness of God and how that should affect believers. 2 Facts: 1. God is faithful in all He does so trust Him! (Psalm 33:1-4). - He’s faithful during our afflictions (Psalm 119:75, 67, 71). - He’s faithful to forgive us (1 John 1:9). - He’s faithful when we’re mistreated for our faith (1 Peter 4:19). - He’s faithful during temptations (1 Corinthians 10:13, 2 Thessalonians 3:3). - He’s faithful to answer our prayers (Psalm 143:1). - He’s faithful to supply our needs (Psalm 91:4). 2. God is faithful in all He says so believe Him Psalm 33:4). - When sin entered the world, God promised a Savior (Galatians 4:4). - When God promised that Abraham’s descendants would be a great nation (Exodus 3:7-8). - When Joshua took over for Moses (Joshua 23:14) - When He promised to return (John 14:3)

This morning we will see how trials reveal the health of a believer’s commitment to Christ. How is yours? 3 Levels of Commitment: 1. There is a commitment that is _____________________ (Matthew 26:30-35, 48-51). 2. There is a commitment that is _____________________ (Matthew 26:57-58). 3. There is a commitment that is ________________________ (Matthew 26:69-75). Application: 1. How would you describe your commitment to Christ? 2. How do you get back to a dynamic commitment? - See _________ for who ______ is (Luke 22:61). “And Peter remembered ...” - Come to grips with the ___________________ of your ________ (Matthew 26:75). “And he went out and wept bitterly.” - Understand that _________ is ___________________________ (Mark 16:7, 1 John 1:9). “... and Peter ...” - Remember that God gives __________________ ________________________ (John 21:15-17, 20-21).

Stop the World, I Want to Get Off! Isaiah 40 Life can be like a roller coaster. At times, thrilling and exciting. And other times, frightening with unexpected twists and turns. When life gets frightening and you experience unexpected twists and turns, do you ever catch yourself saying something like, “Stop the world, I want to get off!” This morning we will see a message of comfort that God gives His people during these times. 2 Truths: 1. When you feel __________ remember God is ______________ (Isaiah 40:27-28). 2. When you feel ________ remember God is ____________ (Isaiah 40:29-31). Application: 1. When life gets frightening and uncertain how can remembering that God is present be comforting? How do you respond when you lose sight of this truth? 2. How can trying to do things alone in your own strength make you tired? How can waiting on the Lord renew your strength?

Easter Sunday Worship Service

Good Friday Service

What would you say is the world’s greatest need? Right now, many of you might say a cure for COVID-19! I agree, that would be a great need. However, is it the world’s greatest need? This morning, on this Palm Sunday, Jesus reveals to us what truly is the world’s greatest need and what we need to know about it. 2 Truths 1. God has a ____________ for the world’s greatest need (Luke 19:28-40). 2. The world is _______________ to its greatest need (Luke 19:41-44). Application: 1. We saw today that God has a plan for your greatest need. What does that tell you about God? What does that tell you about how He views you? 2. What does the world consider their greatest need? How can you help them open their eyes to their real need? 3. If somebody were to ask you, “Who is Jesus?” what would you tell them? Why is what you say so important?

I haven’t counted for myself, but I’ve heard it said that, “fear not” is in the Bible 365 times. That’s one for each day of the year! It’s safe to say that God didn’t intend for His followers to spend their days preoccupied with anxiety and worry. Does that sound like you? Have you been preoccupied with anxiety and worry these days? This morning we will see Jesus give his frightened disciples perspective in a time of fear and uncertainty. 3 Reminders 1. You’ve been given _______________ (John 20:19-20). 2. You’ve been given _____________________ (John 20:21). 3. You have been given _______________ (John 20:22-23). Application: 1. Romans 5:1 says, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Do you have this peace with God? You can by confessing your sin and putting your faith in Jesus Christ! 2. Just because we’ve been quarantined our purpose and responsibility as believers to share the gospel hasn’t changed! What are some creative ways you could share the gospel (peace with God) with others during this time? 3. What causes you to doubt your ability to successfully share the gospel? Remember, as a believer you have the Holy Spirit living within you. No doubt is stronger than Him!

Our country is experiencing something that is unprecedented in our lifetime! COVID-19 has literally brought our country to a grinding halt. There are no public gatherings of over 10 people! No sporting events, no restaurants, no school, for some no work which might mean no paycheck, and no church (at least in the traditional sense). This is a time of fear and uncertainty. This morning we will see three lessons from Jesus on how to navigate the storms of life. 3 Lessons 1. God has __________________ you here (Matthew 14:22-24, Psalm 115:3, Ephesians 1:11). 2. God always _______________ for you (Matthew 14:23-27). 3. God is helping you ____________ (Mathew 14:28-33). Application: 1. Have you questioned God during this time? Matthew 14:22 says, “Immediately he (Jesus) made his disciples get into the boat.” What was Jesus trying to teach the disciples by placing them there? What is he trying to teach you by placing you in this storm? 2. How has Jesus shown that he cares for you? How does this help you as you face the storms of life? 3. During this time there are a lot of “waves” that cause us to take our eyes off Jesus. Determine what those “waves” are in your life and turn your focus back on Jesus!

God wants you to be holy. How do we become holy? Big Idea: Biblical thinking leads to gospel hope. Gospel hope leads to holy living. 1. We become holy by thinking biblically 2. We become holing by hoping in the gospel. 3. We become holy by forsaking worldly thinking.

Matthew 26 Do you adore God? The word “adore” or “adoration” is defined as, “a deep love and respect” or “to worship”. Does that describe your attitude towards God? Tonight we will look at a story of a woman who vividly revealed her adoration for God. We’ll ask three questions that will challenge you to evaluate your adoration for God. 3 Questions: 1. Do you always give God your best? (Matthew 26:6-13) 2. Do you boldly stand out for God? (Matthew 26:8-9) 3. Do you live your life with God as a priority? (Matthew 26:10-13)

March 8, 2020 – AM Church Health: A Study Through Titus Generational Discipleship If you’ve been around our church for a while, you’ve heard our purpose statement many times. “Faith Baptist Church exists to glorify God by making, maturing, and mobilizing disciples of Jesus Christ.” This morning we will see a vital necessity in the disciple making process that must exist if we’re going to experience church health! 2 Roles 1. The older generation must demonstrate godly living (Titus 2:1-4a). 2. The younger generation must imitate godly living (Titus 2:4-8). Application: 1. For those in the older generation, are you intentionally pouring your spiritual life into someone from the younger generation? If not, determine today who it could be! 2. For those in the younger generation, are you intentionally plugged into an older believer who will train you in godly living? If not, determine today who that could be!

Please reference Psalm 51 for this message from Jared Callison.

There’s a well know quote that says, “Everything rises and falls on leadership!” Years before this quote was ever uttered, Paul emphasized to Titus how vital godly leadership was in the church. In fact, the priority of godly leadership is the first thing Paul mentioned as he taught Titus how to “put what remained in order” in the church. This morning we will see two reasons why godly leadership is a priority for church health. 2 Reasons 1. Because their godly example will influence others (Titus 1:5-9). 2. Because their godly rebuke will prevent destruction (Titus 1:10-16). Application 1. Do you live as a believer that other believers should imitate? What’s one thing you could change that would make you a better example to follow? 2. Paul warns Titus of false teachers within the church that are, “insubordinate, empty talkers and deceivers”. With this in mind, please regularly pray for the spiritual purity of our church, and for your pastor as I strive to stand strong for sound doctrine and promote spiritual maturity.

It’s safe to say that we live in a health-conscious world. Now more than ever, things like eating healthy and getting proper exercise have gained a renewed urgency. When it comes to church health, is there the same urgency? Today we will begin a study through the book of Titus to see what a healthy church looks like. We must be a health-conscious church! 2 Reminders 1. God is the source of all true godliness (Titus 1:1-2) 2. God is in control of all salvation events (Titus 1:3). Application: 1. In Titus 1:2 Paul reminds Titus that God, “never lies”. This truth must cause us as a church to rally around His Word as the only source of our faith and practice! 2. God reveals man’s need for saving faith, spiritual growth, and godly living through the “preaching” or “proclaiming” of His Word. So take seriously the words of Hebrews 10:25, “not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”

In Matthew 5 Jesus refers to believers as, “the light of the world” and He tells them to, “let your light shine before men.” How are you doing? This morning, as we observe Philip’s encounter with the Ethiopian Eunuch, we will see how a Christian light should respond to unbelievers. 3 Comparisons 1. A Christian Lite is driven by crowds. A Christian Light is driven by God (Acts 8:1-13, 26) 2. A Christian Lite sees obstacles. A Christian Light sees opportunities (Acts 8:27-31). 3. A Christian Lite is ready to give up. A Christian Light is ready to give an answer (Acts 8:30-35). Application: 1. God often accomplishes His sovereign work through human instruments. Are you available and prepared to be used by God? 2. Consistently praying for the lost will cause you to see them more as an opportunity than an obstacle. Are you praying for the lost? 3. Can you give a clear explanation of the gospel? Try writing it out this week. Let another believer read it to check it for clarity. Are there words or phrases you used that an unbeliever may not understand?

If others were to write your obituary what would they say? For what would you be remembered? Would they write abut your love for Christ? Would your love for Christ be evident enough in the way you live for it to even be included? This morning we are going to look at two questions to help you evaluate how you’re living in light of your relationship with Christ. 2 Questions 1. What does your unspoken testimony say? (2 Corinthians 5:14-17). 2. What does your spoken testimony say? (2 Corinthians 5:18-20). Application: 1. What controls or compels the way you live? Is it Christ’s love for youor something else? What needs to change? 2. Paul says believers have been entrusted with the message and ministry of reconciliation. What do you need to do better in order to be a more faithful ambassador? 3. What plans have you made for next week’s Outreach Night?

For the last few weeks we have been challenged by the words of Jesus to His disciples to, “Lift up your eyes”. In that same passage Jesus reminds them that, “the fields are white for harvest.” In other words, the time to labor for the Lord is now! This morning we will see three requirements if we’re to faithfully and effectively labor for the Lord. 3 Requirements 1. Laboring for the Lord requires letting go (Luke 5:1-7). 2. Laboring for the Lord requires humbling ourselves (Luke 5:8-10) 3. Laboring for the Lord requires proper priorities (Luke 5:11). Application: 1. Is there something you need to let go of in order to faithfully labor for the Lord? 2. Peter had a moment when he realized that Jesus was Lord and he humbled himself before Him. Have you had a moment like this in your life? 3. As a church we need a renewed urgency of the spiritual battle going on around us. What role are you playing in “catching men” so Satan won’t? Make plans for our first Outreach Night on February 2 nd !

Last week we began a series of messages titled, “Lift Up Your Eyes”. This was the admonition that Jesus had for His disciples in John 4. If they weren’t careful, Jesus knew they could become oblivious to the harvest of souls around them. Jesus’ admonition is for us too! We know the good news of Jesus Christ! We need to lift up our eyes and recognize the spiritual need of those around us. This morning we will see this vividly illustrated by a blindman sitting by the roadside begging. 3 Reasons 1. Because people are still looking for Jesus today (Mark 10:46-47). 2. Because we’re still in danger of passing people by today (Mark 10:48) 3. Because Jesus can still change people’s lives today (Mark 10:49-52). Application: 1. Who didn’t pass you by? In other words, who took the time to share the gospel with you? Will you be that person in someone else’s life? 2. Be thinking and praying who you might reach out to on our first Outreach Night.

We are a world of distracted people. We turn on our TVs for an escape from reality. We put on our headphones to drown out the noise of the world. We endlessly gaze at our cell phones oblivious to those around us. As the Church, it’s time that we listen to Jesus and “lift up our eyes” and see the people around us as He saw them; those who are lost and in need of a Savior! 3 Outcomes 1. When you lift up your eyes it satisfies a lingering hunger (John 4:31-34). 2. When you lift up your eyes it fulfills an urgent need (John 4:35). 3. When you lift up your eyes it provides a rewarding life (John 4:36-38). Application: 1. Is your “food to do the will of the Father?” Do you feel as if your Christian life is empty or lacking? If so, there’s a good chance that you’re hungering for something the world can’t satisfy. 2. Are you oblivious to the lost around you? What do you need to lift up your eyes from in order to see the harvest? 3. Is your life focused on something that could be lost or taken from you? Jesus says that dedicating your life to advance the gospel is a rewarding life that can never be taken from you!

There are 525,600 minutes in a 365 day year. Since 2020 is a leap year we will enjoy 527,040 minutes this year! During that time a lot will happen. In some cases you might think, “Wow, that happened so fast!” In other cases you might catch yourself asking, “Why is God taking so long?” This morning we will see how God uses the time He grants us perfectly and for our good. 3 Truths concerning God’s use of time: 1. God uses time to reveal He can always be trusted (Joshua 1:1-4). 2. God uses time to reveal He will always be present (Joshua 1:5, 9). 3. God uses time to reveal He will always bless obedience. (Joshua 1:6-8). Application: 1. In this new year remember that it’s not your feelings or circumstances that you turn to for understanding. Like Joshua, it’s God’s promises from His Word that we must cling to (“As I promised to Moses”). 2. Name a personal “As/So” principle that you can apply in 2020? 3. What do you need to be “careful to do” from God’s Word in 2020?

We’re around people all the time. Whether we’re at work, school, in our neighborhoods, or even the busy stores and shopping malls during this Christmas season, we are constantly in contact with people. What do these people want for Christmas? Maybe you’ve never thought about it, but you need to! This morning we will see what the world wants for Christmas! 3 Wants: 1. The world wants to have fellowship with their Creator (John 1:35-39) 2. The world wants to see passion in our faith (John 1:40-45). 3. The world wants to find purpose for their life (John 1:46-51). Application: 1. Name someone in your life who exhibits a desire to find fellowship with their Creator. 2. Does this person see passion in your faith? Do you need to do anything to change that? 3. Philip told Nathanael to “Come and see” Jesus. Will you invite this person to “Come and see” Jesus?

Jesus is the reason for the season! I’m sure you’ve heard this phrase many times over the years during Christmas. This morning we’ll see that Jesus’ birth, the Word who became flesh, gives you and me purpose for living. 3 Facts: 1. God’s purpose for you was planned from the beginning (John 1:19-23) 2. God’s purpose for you does not center around you (John 1:24-31). 3. God’s purpose for you is important in His plan (John 1:32-34). Application: 1. Be encouraged today! To God you are not just a number! He has known about you before the creation of the world! 2. Have you ever been confused about what life is all about? Have you felt frustrated as you wander through life? Maybe it’s because you’ve been searching for purpose in the wrong place. 3. God has plans for you! Because He’s God His plans are perfect! However, you need to decide if you want to know what they are. If so, those plans are revealed to you in His Word.

Have you ever served on jury duty? For the next two weeks you are going to serve on a jury to determine whether Jesus is truly who He claims to be. During the month of December we will be studying John chapter one and learning about the Word who became flesh. 4 Stages of an Investigation: 1. A background check is conducted (John 1:1-5) 2. A witness is called to testify (John 1:6-9, 15). 3. A report of His actions is made (John 1:10-13). 4. A review of the evidence is done (John 1:14-18). Application: 1. If Jesus is who He claims to be (God in the flesh born in a manger), then you must realize that Christmas is more than just gifts. Christmas is about the best gift ever given! Have you received this gift from God? 2. John the Baptist was sent as a witness (pointer) to Jesus. Who are you pointing to Jesus?

In November we’ve been going through a study on developing a heart of joyful gratitude. This morning I want to teach you a new word. The word is “thanksliving”. Notice it’s not Thanksgiving but thanksliving. What’s the difference? Thanksgiving is one day a year that we celebrate in November. Thanksliving is more of a lifestyle that we live year-round. Does your life exhibit thanksliving? 5 Lifestyles: 1. A lifestyle of publicly praising Him (Psalm 100:1) 2. A lifestyle of gladly serving Him (Psalm 100:2a). 3. A lifestyle of joyfully worshiping Him (Psalm 100:2b). 4. A lifestyle of willingly submitting to Him (Psalm 100:3). 5. A lifestyle of purposefully meeting with Him (Psalm 100:4-5). Application: Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday that we celebrate. For the believer it needs to be exhibited in the lifestyle that we live. Pick one lifestyle that we spoke about this morning and begin this week improving on it, therefore improving your thanksliving!

Last week we began a study on developing a heart of joyful gratitude. We began by recognizing the need for believers to consistently make three proclamations in life. God has delivered me, my dependence is on God, and God faithfully provides for me. This morning, as we continue to look at developing a heart of joyful gratitude, we will see an example of true biblical thankfulness. 2 Characteristics: 1. The thankful minority respond with thoughtful praise (Luke 17:11-16). 2. The thankful minority recognize what’s been granted (Luke 17:16-19). Application: 1. I heard a quote this week. “Worship is the thank you that can’t be silenced.” Is your thankfulness seen in your daily worship? 2. Before putting your faith in Christ you were a “spiritual leper”. You were living a life separated from God. Do you recognize and appreciate what has been granted to you in Christ?

All through Scripture we see examples of the extreme prayers of both Old and New Testament saints. Is that kind of prayer still for today? Does God still respond like He did back then? I would say an emphatic yes to both questions! This morning we will look at two insights concerning extreme prayer. 2 Insights: 1. Extreme prayer is _____________. (Psalm 119:145-149). 2. Extreme prayer is _____________ (Psalm 119:150-152). Application: 1. James says that Elijah’s prayer was fervent (hot, burning, or boiling). This would also describe the Psalmist’s prayer life. Consistent _____________ to God’s Word is the only way to ignite a fire in your prayer life! 2. Distance effects _____________. You must be close to God to _____________ effective prayer. How close are you? What do you need to change or confess?

Are you living right? This morning we will see that God’s Word reveals to us the need and way to live right. 3 Facts: 1. Living right is clearly explained in God’s Word (Psalm 119:137-138). 2. Living right is often misunderstood by the world (Psalm 119:139-143). 3. Living right is accessible for everyone (Psalm 119:144). So Remember: 1. If God is righteous (upright, all together, just, not lacking, completely right) then we can trust His Word is the same. Therefore, we can trust His Word concerning living right without fear of failure! 2. If you’re living right for God, at one time or another, you will experience people misunderstanding your lifestyle choice (1 Peter 4:12-14). 3. God’s Word reveals everything you need to know for this life and the life to come.

At times your life can feel like you’re wandering through a desert. You’re desperate, tired, and in need of refreshment. Where do you turn during times like this? This morning we will see that God’s Word is our oasis through the desert times of life. 2 Reasons: 1. Because it brings needed __________________ (Psalm 119:129-131). 2. Because it brings needed __________________ (Psalm 119:132-136). So Remember: 1. During the desert times of life what do you turn to? Once you have experienced the __________________ that only comes from God’s Word, you’ll understand that nothing else __________________! 2. No matter where you are today in your __________________ with sin, always remember that rescue is __________________!

Route 119: A Roadmap for Life’s Journey Living Up to Snuff Sadly, over the years, Christians have come up with their own standards for godliness. Do this and don’t do that and you are considered by many to be a good Christian. But what is true godliness? How does a truly godly person respond to God’s Word. 3 Responses: 1. You will wait ________________ on God’s ________________. (Psalm 119:121-123). 2. You will have a ________________ to learn God’s ________________. (Psalm 119:124-125). 3. You will be ________________ by the ________________ of others to God’s commands . (Psalm 119:126-128). So Remember: 1. Be careful to ________________ God’s timing. His ________________ are worth the wait! 2. Be honest, what do you ________________? God’s Word? There are ways to develop an ________________! 3. ________________ to God’s Word is a dangerous place to be as a believer. An ________________ believer needs a godly intervention!

Commitment isn’t what it used to be. In sports there are terms like “fair weather fan” or “jumping on the bandwagon”. Both describe fans that are committed to a team only when things are going well. However, it’s not just in sports. Lack of commitment can be seen in the Christian life. The lack of church membership, the forsaking of church attendance, and a diminished desire for service, reveal a lack of commitment among believers. With this in mind, how is your commitment to God’s Word? Is it your one and only? 4 Attitudes: 1. God’s Word must be our one and only _______________ (Psalm 119:113-114). 2. God’s Word must be our one and only _______________ (Psalm 119:115). 3. God’s Word must be our one and only _______________ (Psalm 119:116-117). 4. God’s Word must be our one and only _______________ (Psalm 119:118-120) So Remember: 1. The double-minded expose themselves to _______________. Get _______________! 2. You’re influenced by what you’re _______________ to. Be _______________! 3. There’s a lot of _______________ support in the world. Imitate _______________! (“It is written”) 4. The ways of the world don’t _______________ up. God’s Word _______________!

During the creation God spoke the words, “Let there be light” and there was light. Throughout Scripture light illustrates whatever is pure, joyful, and good. For example, in I John 1:5, we’re told that God is light. He’s called “The Father of lights” in James 1:17. Jesus is referred to as the “light of the world” in John 1:9 and He refers to himself as “the light of the world” in John 8:12. And today, as we continue our study of Psalm 119, we will see that the Word of God is “a light to our path” (Psalm 119:105). 3 Reasons: 1. Because God’s Word reveals our ____________ ____________ (Psalm 119:105-106) 2. Because God’s Word reveals our _____________ _____________ (Psalm 119:107) 3. Because God’s Word reveals our _________________________ _______________ (Psalm 119:108-112) So Remember: 1. Do you feel lost? God’s Word will reveal the next step in your life. The next right thing. What’s the next _______________ _______________ for you? 2. We all live broken lives in a broken world. Only God’s Word reveals the __________________ __________________. 3. An improper focus can blur your view of life and the world. Only God’s Word will bring __________________ ____________ _______________.

Did you know that you woke up this morning in the middle of a battle? In fact, you’ve been a part of this battle for your entire life. Sometimes the battlefront seems quiet and your life seems to pass by fairly easy. However, there are other times where the battle is raging all around you and the fight seems overwhelming. This morning we will see how God’s Word provides what’s necessary to have victory in the battle. 3 Guidelines: 1. We must ___________ God’s Word (Psalm 119:97, 103) 2. We must _______________ God’s Word (Psalm 119:98-100, 104) 3. We must ____________ God’s Word (Psalm 119:101-102) So Remember: 1. If you say you love God but ______________ His Word, your love for God is ______________. To fall in love with God you must get to know Him through His Word! 2. We talk a lot about discipleship here at Faith Baptist Church. A true disciple is always ________________ God’s Word. Are you a true disciple? Keep learning (maturing)! Don’t ever think you’ve ______________. 3. The spiritual battle is real! Always remember God has shown us how to live. God’s Word reveals how we can ____________, not just ______________, through this spiritual battle.

“It’s too old!” “It’s outdated!” “How can we trust anything written that many years ago?” These are just a few of the comments you might hear someone make when they are discussing the Bible’s relevance. Are these legitimate concerns? Is God’s Word still relevant for today? This morning we will see three truths the psalmist teaches that helps us understand the relevancy of God’s Word for today! 3 Truths: 1. God’s Word is _____________________________________________ (Psalm 119:89-91) 2. God’s Word is ___________________________ (Psalm 119:92-95) 3. God’s Word is ___________________________ (Psalm 119:96) So Remember: 1. Things in your life will constantly change. God’s Word is reliable because it’s ____________ in the ____________________. 2. Sinful people and temporal things will always let you down. God’s perfect ____________ will never ____________ you. 3. Earthly knowledge is _____________________. The truth of God’s Word is ___________________________.

A crisis is defined as any event that potentially could lead to an unstable and dangerous situation affecting an individual, group or community. Through history our country has faced crisis. Through life we all will face crisis. As believers, how are we to handle them? This morning we will see how we can experience comfort in times of crisis. 2 Examples: 1. God’s Word gives comfort in ___________________________ _______________ (Psalm 119:81-84) 2. God’s Word give comfort during __________________ ________________________ (Psalm 119:85-88) So Remember: 1. Life will always be ___________________________. Only God’s Word brings ___________________________. 2. We will all carry _____________________. Only God’s Word is the true burden __________________. 3. People will always be ___________________________. Be careful to respond ______________________________ not _________________________________.

Hewbrews 4: 14-16 Big Idea: We have __________________ to God through Jesus Christ. So... 1. Be ___________________________ 2. Be ___________________________