First Shallowater: Weekly Worship Messages

When we feel abandoned by God during painful circumstances, we can respond in three powerful ways. First, remind yourself that God loves you and is with you through the Holy Spirit, even when you can't feel His presence. Second, transform your 'why' questions into 'what' questions—asking what God wants to teach you, do in you, and do through you in this season. Finally, choose to trust God's heart and His promises when you can't trace His hand. Your current pain may one day become your most powerful testimony of God's faithfulness.

In a diverse world, Jesus' exclusive claim to be the only way to God challenges many who otherwise admire His teachings. While all religions aren't the same, Jesus stands apart through His unique ministry to society's outcasts, His resurrection witnessed by hundreds, and His message of God entering our world to redeem it. Unlike abstract truth or imperfect human love, Jesus offers truth embodied in a person who can love perfectly. This salvation isn't about religious performance but relationship - available to everyone regardless of their past, requiring only acknowledgment of need, asking for forgiveness, and surrendering one's life.

Faith and science need not be in conflict. While some argue that scientific explanations make God obsolete, this assumes that explaining how something works eliminates the need for a Creator. Instead, science can reveal God's attributes—His attention to detail, faithfulness, and desire to be known. Four models exist for integrating faith and science: conflict, independence, dialogue, and integration. Rather than placing God only in the gaps of our knowledge, we can recognize that God works through creation, not just around it. Scientific explanations don't eliminate God; they reveal how God accomplishes His purposes.

When Christians fail to live up to their professed beliefs, it can cause deep hurt and disillusionment. Jesus himself confronted religious hypocrisy, calling out those who put on a spiritual show while their hearts remained unchanged. Some who claim to be Christians aren't truly following Christ, others are immature in their faith, and even mature believers sometimes fall short. The solution isn't to abandon faith but to focus on Jesus rather than people, release anger and hurt, and continue serving others. By examining our own faith, releasing church hurt, and keeping our eyes on Christ, we can find authentic faith beyond the disappointment of religious hypocrisy.

Self-doubt and insecurities often mask themselves as doubt in God, affecting how we view our relationship with Him. Through biblical examples like Gideon, we learn that God sees us differently than we see ourselves - as mighty heroes and masterpieces created for specific purposes. Our past failures, like those of Moses, David, and Paul, don't disqualify us from God's calling. True confidence comes not from believing in ourselves, but from having faith in God's purpose and His promise to be with us as we fulfill our calling.

Doubt is a natural part of faith that stems from unanswered questions, difficult situations, and unresolved hurts. Jesus's response to doubt, as seen in His interaction with Peter walking on water, shows it as an opportunity for growth rather than a sign of failure. Healthy spiritual deconstruction involves examining beliefs sincerely while maintaining focus on Jesus's character of sacrificial love. The path forward includes focusing on the Gospel, trusting God with our questions, serving others, and staying connected to Christian community.

Doubt is a natural part of faith that even Jesus' disciples experienced. Understanding the difference between faith and belief is crucial - belief is intellectual acceptance, while faith involves trust and commitment. Through Thomas's story, we learn that expressing doubt doesn't indicate weak faith. The key to handling doubt is bringing it directly to Jesus, understanding that doubt doesn't disqualify us from faith, and allowing uncertainties to become catalysts for stronger spiritual growth. Faith isn't about the absence of doubt, but rather the means to push through it.

Death is a universal reality that everyone faces, but through Jesus's interaction with Martha after Lazarus's death, we discover deeper truths about life and mortality. Jesus declares Himself as the resurrection and life, revealing that true life isn't merely biological existence but a relationship with Him. This profound truth shows that life in Christ never ends, and real spiritual vitality is available to everyone through faith in Jesus. Those who believe experience a transformation that transcends physical death, finding eternal life through their connection with Christ.

Jesus uses the metaphor of a grapevine to illustrate our vital spiritual connection with Him. As branches connected to the true vine, we can only bear fruit through maintaining this essential relationship. Remaining in Christ involves complete surrender, regular interaction through prayer and Bible study, faithful obedience, and active participation in Christian community. When we stay connected to Jesus, our lives naturally produce the fruits of joy and sacrificial love.

In times of trouble and anxiety, Jesus provides a clear path forward through complete trust in Him. Just as He experienced being troubled during His earthly ministry, Jesus understands our struggles and offers Himself as the way through them. He demonstrates His trustworthiness through His deep love, unwavering commitment, and constant presence through the Holy Spirit. By acknowledging Jesus as The Way, The Truth, and The Life, we can find peace by surrendering control and following His lead rather than relying on our own efforts.

Jesus declares Himself as the light of the world, offering rescue from spiritual darkness and guidance toward truth. This light serves three primary purposes: to rescue people from darkness, reveal truth in their lives, and revive their spirits. When we encounter this light, we can choose to run from it, deny what it reveals, or accept its transforming truth. By accepting Jesus's light, we receive new purpose, experience spiritual revival, and find true life.

Jesus fulfills dual roles as both the door to salvation and the Good Shepherd who guides and protects His flock. Through consistent exposure to Scripture, prayer, and understanding God's character, believers learn to recognize His voice amid various threats and cultural influences. The Good Shepherd calls His sheep, distinguishes His flock, and provides ongoing nurture and protection. This relationship requires regular engagement with God's Word and careful discernment of His voice against Scripture.

Jesus declares Himself as the door, using a powerful metaphor from ancient sheepfolds to illustrate His role in salvation. As shepherds acted as living doors to protect their sheep, Jesus serves as the exclusive entrance to God's presence and eternal life. This imagery emphasizes that salvation comes only through Christ, who guards His followers from spiritual danger and provides constant care. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus opened the way for all to enter into a relationship with God.

Empty religion focuses on self-serving motives and performance-based practices, while true faith centers on a genuine relationship with Christ. Many people attend church regularly but experience no real transformation because they're caught in religious motions rather than authentic devotion. Jesus describes himself as the bread of life, inviting us into intimate communion with God rather than mere ritual observance. The path to genuine faith involves surrendering to Christ, allowing God to work through us, and pursuing relationship over religious activities.

The encounter between God and Moses at the burning bush reveals profound truths about divine purpose and human potential. God deliberately chooses ordinary people for extraordinary missions, demonstrating that our status, past failures, or current limitations don't disqualify us from His calling. Through Moses's story, we learn that God's presence and character matter more than our abilities or reputation. The ultimate purpose behind God's interaction with humans is to establish a deep, personal relationship that transforms ordinary lives into vessels of His extraordinary work.

Life's storms can strike unexpectedly, even during our best moments, leaving us feeling isolated and afraid. Through the account of Jesus walking on water, we learn that He is never truly distant from us, regardless of how severe our circumstances may seem. True strength comes not from our own abilities but from maintaining focus on Jesus rather than our struggles. By leaving our false securities behind and keeping our eyes fixed on Christ, we can find the courage and stability to weather any storm life brings.

Living a life of purpose in Christ requires rejecting both toxic competition and spiritual apathy. True Christian living demands a relentless pursuit of knowing Christ deeply and making Him known to others. This pursuit involves constant growth, unwavering focus, and willingness to sacrifice comfort. By evaluating priorities and identifying areas of complacency, believers can refocus on God's purpose and demonstrate authentic commitment to spiritual growth.

Real love requires supernatural strength and goes far beyond superficial expressions of affection. Drawing from Ephesians 5, true love manifests through submission, service, and sacrifice - qualities that demonstrate authentic strength rather than weakness. Real men earn respect through compassion and service rather than demanding it through force. This kind of love involves genuine connection, recognizing others' God-given value, and willingly sacrificing personal comfort for others' needs.

Discover the transformative power of authentic Christian manhood and how it differs from cultural stereotypes. Learn about the three essential qualities that define genuine masculine leadership: selflessness, humility, and love-driven service. Understand why many men struggle with authentic masculinity and how Jesus Christ provides the perfect model for true manhood. Explore practical ways to break free from the cycle of competition and status-seeking to embrace a more fulfilling approach to masculinity. This message delves into the contrast between surface-level masculinity and genuine Christian manhood, offering practical steps for personal growth and spiritual development. Perfect for men seeking to grow in their faith, leaders wanting to develop better leadership skills, and anyone interested in understanding biblical masculinity.

Discover the truth about authentic manhood in a world of confusion. This powerful message addresses the current crisis of masculinity and reveals how men can find their true purpose. Learn why modern definitions of success leave men feeling empty and how embracing God's design for masculinity leads to fulfillment. Key topics include spiritual leadership, family responsibility, mentorship, and living with eternal purpose. Perfect for men seeking direction, fathers, husbands, and anyone interested in biblical masculinity, spiritual growth, Christian leadership, and family ministry. Explore practical steps for becoming the man God designed you to be.

Discover the powerful narrative of God's mission throughout Scripture and its relevance for today's world. From Genesis to Revelation, explore how God's plan for global redemption unfolds through key biblical events and continues in our time. Learn about the current state of global missions, including the challenges of reaching 7,000 unreached people groups and the opportunities presented by modern technology and evolving mission dynamics. Understand practical ways to participate in God's mission through going, learning, praying, giving, and starting with local evangelism.

Discover the transformative power of living on mission with God through the biblical example of Peter and John. Learn four essential principles for purposeful Christian living: seeking God through prayer and fellowship, seeing others through Spirit-filled eyes, seizing opportunities for ministry, and submitting to divine authority. This message explores practical ways to move beyond religious routines and make lasting Kingdom impact. Perfect for Christians seeking deeper purpose, new believers learning to share their faith, and anyone wanting to understand authentic Christian living.

Discover the five essential areas of human flourishing that lead to a truly rich and satisfying life. Learn how faith, relationships, vocation, finances, and well-being work together to create a life of purpose and meaning. Explore the characteristics of a healthy church and its role in personal growth and community impact. This message reveals practical steps for evaluating and improving these key life areas, showing how true abundance goes beyond material wealth. Perfect for anyone seeking personal growth, spiritual development, life purpose, church health, community impact, Christian living, biblical wisdom, personal development, spiritual formation, and meaningful relationships. Learn how to thrive in every aspect of life while staying connected to God's purpose for your journey.

Feeling frantic and overwhelmed in today's fast-paced world? Discover timeless lessons from Luke 2, where Mary and Joseph's experience of losing Jesus offers profound insights. Learn why we feel frantic—whether it's losing our anchor points, looking in the wrong places, or thinking we're in control. Find out how to move from panic to peace by remembering God's promises, spending time in His presence, trusting His plan, and surrendering to His will. Reflect on your own life: Are you seeking peace in the wrong places? How can you surrender control to God? Dive deep into these biblical principles and find the peace you seek.

In this week's exploration of Luke 2, we delve into the often-overlooked figure of Joseph and his remarkable obedience to God. As we reflect on the Christmas season, Joseph's story offers powerful lessons on faithfulness and trust. Despite the uncertainties and challenges, Joseph chose to follow God's instructions, leading him to witness the miraculous birth of Jesus. This narrative encourages us to consider our own obedience to God and to trust His plan, even when it doesn't align with our expectations. Key themes include the wonder of the Christmas story, the shepherds' encounter with the angel, and the importance of sharing the good news. Joseph's faithfulness is a reminder that our obedience can lead to incredible blessings. Reflect on how you can apply Joseph's example in your own life and embrace the joy and wonder of the Christmas season.

Explore the inspiring story of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, in our 'Average Joe' series. Joseph, a humble construction worker, faced a profound test of faith when he discovered Mary was pregnant. Despite the fear and potential shame, he obeyed God's command to marry her, understanding that her child was conceived by the Holy Spirit. This act of obedience, though costly, led to an extraordinary purpose. Learn how ordinary obedience can lead to extraordinary purpose, and how trusting God's plan, even when it requires sacrifice, can fill your life with His presence and purpose.

Explore the profound lessons of faith and righteousness through the story of Joseph, a humble construction worker chosen by God for an extraordinary purpose. This narrative delves into the significance of the virgin birth, a cornerstone of Christian faith, and highlights how God often selects the seemingly insignificant to fulfill His extraordinary purposes. Joseph's righteousness, imparted by God, is evident in his compassionate actions, particularly in his decision to protect Mary's honor despite the apparent betrayal. This story challenges us to trust in God's plan, receive His righteousness, and act with faithfulness and compassion. 

What is it about the holidays that can make us feel vulnerable, inadequate, or broken? Do you ever feel like your life is a little bit of a letdown, like you are really nothing special, like others have it more “together” than you do? Ironically, this season of Advent celebrates the exact opposite message. We are loved by God, and we are gifted by God. We can be used by God to accomplish great things. Join us as we look at together the life of Jesus' earthly father, Joseph and discover how God does extraordinary things through ordinary people.

Discover the profound concept of true belonging as revealed in Ephesians 2. In a world where acceptance is often fleeting, the Bible offers a deeper, lasting sense of belonging in God's kingdom. Paul reassures the marginalized Christians in Ephesus that they are citizens and family members of God's kingdom, enjoying unparalleled privileges and purpose. This message explores the metaphors of citizenship, family, and building blocks of God's temple, emphasizing our identity and role in His divine plan. Reflect on your true identity and embrace the privileges, position, and purpose that come with being part of God's family.

Discover the profound truths of Ephesians 2 and understand real peace in Christ. This passage challenges us to move beyond superficial divisions and embrace the unifying love of Jesus. Paul addresses the deep spiritual and social divisions between Jews and Gentiles, emphasizing that Christ's love transcends all human barriers. Learn how Jesus' sacrifice on the cross broke down walls of hostility, uniting all into one body based on God's mercy. This radical inclusivity of God's love extends His promises to everyone, regardless of ethnicity, moral conduct, or religious observance. As members of the body of Christ, we are called to strive for unity, recognizing that we are all essential and must extend God's grace to others.

Explore the profound teachings of Ephesians 2 in this week's message, where we uncover the true meaning of life and death from a biblical perspective. Disobedience to God leads to spiritual death, much like King Charles II's tragic medical treatment. Paul explains that living in sin is akin to floating downstream, effortlessly carried by the world's current, leading to death. This condition affects everyone, regardless of religious practices. However, God's extravagant love and mercy offer us a way out. Ephesians 2:4-5 reveals that even though we were dead in our sins, God gave us life through Christ's resurrection. This new life comes with a new identity and purpose, positioning us in a place of honor with Christ. Salvation is a gracious gift from God, not something we can earn. As God's masterpieces, we are created anew to do good works and participate in His perfect plan.

Discover the essence of real wisdom as taught by Paul in the book of Ephesians. Real wisdom is a divine gift, received through surrender and cultivated through a deep relationship with God. It enables us to see the world clearly and is characterized by humility, compassion, and a focus on God. Learn how this wisdom can transform your life and empower you with God's resurrection power.

Discover the true nature of blessings as described in Ephesians 1. In a world where material wealth and success are often mistaken for blessings, Paul reveals that real blessings come from being united with Christ. This union brings every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms, making us part of God's family. Learn about the significance of God's presence, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and our new identity in Christ.

Discover the powerful lessons from the story of Roy Riegels' wrong-way run and a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry. In this message, we explore how Jesus' revelation of His mission in Matthew 16:21-28 challenges our worldly perspectives and calls us to a life of surrender and sacrifice. Learn how to align your goals with God's will, trust in His greater plan, and embrace the path of true salvation. 

If you feel like we are living through a really unique, volatile cultural moment right now, you're not alone, and you're not wrong. Some experts are calling it a cultural convulsion. Our reality on the other side of this moment in history is going to look vastly different from our reality before it. Many of us are experiencing something similar in our personal lives. How do we navigate the tumult of change and uncertainty? What does God want to reveal to us at the tipping point?

From the latest headline to social media comments, to the person who just cut you off in traffic—there are plenty of opportunities to be offended each day. But what if we decided to respond differently to those around us? Together, let's learn how to live with No Offense.

From the latest headline to social media comments, to the person who just cut you off in traffic—there are plenty of opportunities to be offended each day. But what if we decided to respond differently to those around us? Together, let's learn how to live with No Offense.

From the latest headline to social media comments, to the person who just cut you off in traffic—there are plenty of opportunities to be offended each day. But what if we decided to respond differently to those around us? Together, let's learn how to live with No Offense.

From the latest headline to social media comments, to the person who just cut you off in traffic—there are plenty of opportunities to be offended each day. But what if we decided to respond differently to those around us? Together, let's learn how to live with No Offense.

From the latest headline to social media comments, to the personwho just cut you off in traffic—there are plenty of opportunities to be offended each day. But what if we decided to respond differently to those around us? Together, let's learn how to live with No Offense.

FAITH. We hear this word all the time in church. We are told to have it, to practice it, to grow it;  but what is faith? What does faith look like? What impact does faith have on me? There are several stories in the gospels where Jesus actually identifies people with faith, and commends them for it. Over the next few weeks, we're going to take a look at a few of these stories, and let Jesus show us what faith is, how it works, and what it will do in our lives.

FAITH. We hear this word all the time in church. We are told to have it, to practice it, to grow it;  but what is faith? What does faith look like? What impact does faith have on me? There are several stories in the gospels where Jesus actually identifies people with faith, and commends them for it. Over the next few weeks, we're going to take a look at a few of these stories, and let Jesus show us what faith is, how it works, and what it will do in our lives.

FAITH. We hear this word all the time in church. We are told to have it, to practice it, to grow it;  but what is faith? What does faith look like? What impact does faith have on me? There are several stories in the gospels where Jesus actually identifies people with faith, and commends them for it. Over the next few weeks, we're going to take a look at a few of these stories, and let Jesus show us what faith is, how it works, and what it will do in our lives.

FAITH. We hear this word all the time in church. We are told to have it, to practice it, to grow it;  but what is faith? What does faith look like? What impact does faith have on me? There are several stories in the gospels where Jesus actually identifies people with faith, and commends them for it. Over the next few weeks, we're going to take a look at a few of these stories, and let Jesus show us what faith is, how it works, and what it will do in our lives.

FAITH. We hear this word all the time in church. We are told to have it, to practice it, to grow it;  but what is faith? What does faith look like? What impact does faith have on me? There are several stories in the gospels where Jesus actually identifies people with faith, and commends them for it. Over the next few weeks, we're going to take a look at a few of these stories, and let Jesus show us what faith is, how it works, and what it will do in our lives.

What keeps us going through the hard times? How do we stand up under the weight of painful or difficult circumstances? Hope. Hope that things will get better, that's what gets us through. But, what does it mean to have hope?  Hope is more than a feeling. Hope is confidence in the goodness of God. Hope moves us to action. We don't wait around for our hopes to be fulfilled. Empowered by the Spirit of God, we actively work to see our hopes realized. Join us this Sunday as we experience together HOPE IN ACTION!

What keeps us going through the hard times? How do we stand up under the weight of painful or difficult circumstances? Hope. Hope that things will get better, that's what gets us through. But, what does it mean to have hope?  Hope is more than a feeling. Hope is confidence in the goodness of God. Hope moves us to action. We don't wait around for our hopes to be fulfilled. Empowered by the Spirit of God, we actively work to see our hopes realized. Join us this Sunday as we experience together HOPE IN ACTION!

What keeps us going through the hard times? How do we stand up under the weight of painful or difficult circumstances? Hope. Hope that things will get better, that's what gets us through. But, what does it mean to have hope?  Hope is more than a feeling. Hope is confidence in the goodness of God. Hope moves us to action. We don't wait around for our hopes to be fulfilled. Empowered by the Spirit of God, we actively work to see our hopes realized. Join us this Sunday as we experience together HOPE IN ACTION!

What keeps us going through the hard times? How do we stand up under the weight of painful or difficult circumstances? Hope. Hope that things will get better, that's what gets us through. But, what does it mean to have hope?  Hope is more than a feeling. Hope is confidence in the goodness of God. Hope moves us to action. We don't wait around for our hopes to be fulfilled. Empowered by the Spirit of God, we actively work to see our hopes realized. Join us this Sunday as we experience together HOPE IN ACTION!

What keeps us going through the hard times? How do we stand up under the weight of painful or difficult circumstances? Hope. Hope that things will get better, that's what gets us through. But, what does it mean to have hope?  Hope is more than a feeling. Hope is confidence in the goodness of God. Hope moves us to action. We don't wait around for our hopes to be fulfilled. Empowered by the Spirit of God, we actively work to see our hopes realized. Join us this Sunday as we experience together HOPE IN ACTION!