Within Christianity, it is possible that we have communicated far too much latitude to be slow and undisciplined about advancing to spiritual maturity. The enemy leverages this to promote spiritual inertia in believers, by distracting and discouraging us, while pushing us to be soft in our convictions and purpose. But 1 Corinthians 9 calls us to action--to run with discipline the race of our faith, aiming at the prize of pleasing the Lord and influencing others for Christ. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gxYv1GNiqU&t=339s
There are times when we feel like the Lord isn't responding to our prayers--even when we're praying what is good and honors Him. That can breed doubt and discontentment, so David affirms in Psalm 4 that we need to have a long view of the Lord's goodness and be confident in His mercy and sufficiency. The promise is that the Lord "sets apart those who are Godly for Himself", and He calls us to analyze our walk, faith and motives, and then to come boldly with our requests. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z35hWXA0cs8
We're all given a name at birth, but our identity is largely formed by our character and choices. How people view us may not be how we hope they view us. As believers, we are evaluated by 5 categories: Our reputation, our spiritual maturity and passion, our example, our love and sacrifice, and our ministry impact. It's vital that we represent Christ well, since we bear His Name first and foremost. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxNUHztorJw
In 1 Samuel, Abigail was a Godly woman who was married to a worthless man named Nabal, who intentionally offended future king David. Rather than letting David sin by killing Nabal, Abigail took wise steps to defuse the situation, protect lives and help David stay in God's will. This calls us to humble sacrifice, especially when we see the Lord's hand and plan. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cA3CAOqx2D8&t=4832s
Consistency and faithfulness in our faith and life tend to be underrated qualities, but the Lord greatly values them, especially because they dictate how we live. When David sinned with Bathsheeba, his character and behaviour were clearly altered, marked by emotional instability and irrational decisions. The fact that the devil tried to seize on that weakness shows how vital it is for us to ask the Spirit to convict us and to show true repentance by "building altars". Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLw8GmjBw8I
Jesus' resurrection was verified by hundreds who saw Him alive, but there is another powerful Truth that comes from it: The fact that when we trust Him to save us, He makes us alive, too. This is not an improved adaptation of our old life which was controlled by sin--it is now dead! And as those made alive in Christ, we gratefully make significant choices that show our deep convictions and our new life. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=500-5B7eIeQ&t=3900s
There were two groups--the Jewish leaders and Romans--with everything to gain if Jesus stayed dead, and everything to lose if He was actually risen. But even a violent execution, a sealed tomb and extra soldiers could not defeat Jesus, because He has all power and victory over sin and the grave. This proves man's inability and our need for the salvation only He can provide. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rn0jUi6-u5I&t=3558s
It is historically likely that just one person was with Jesus from arrest to being put in the tomb--a Roman centurion. This harsh, secular leader had his heart changed as he witnessed the events and Jesus' humble reactions. His fresh faith and convictions were confirmed when Jesus died, and then there was no doubt once the tomb was empty. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxx6pgw_Fk0
In the week before HIs death, Jesus cleansed the temple of the moneychangers--an event that almost seems out of character. But while He was righteously angry, He was also deeply sad at the callousness of the people as they conveniently bought sacrifices in the temple. This reminds us that when we come to worship, we need to upend pride and careless convictions, and consecrate ourselves. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jn3ETu2Mlb8
As believers, we hear about the importance of God's Word, but do we love it? Do we have a strong relationship with it? As we go deeper into the Word, we find that it makes us uniquely wise, strengthens our faith and gives us distinct advantage in spiritual warfare. When we meditate on it, we will experience it's power in our lives. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRf3MyWJybg&t=6593s
The new believers in 1st Century Ephesus were wrestling with false worship & immorality all around them, and were at risk of being deceived. The apostle Paul wrote to them, praying that the eyes of their heart would be enlightened, and that they would live in "the surpassing greatness of God's power". This power gives believers the ability to have deep faith, resist temptation, bear fruit, learn to be joyful and content, and live out our faith. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOw2KyQHr5c&t=3672s
There are times when we experience strong, negative emotions due to people and circumstances, including deep insecurity, anger, fear and hurt. These can undermine our faith and do significant damage, but the Lord has given us "divinely powered" weapons for this war against us. So He calls us to "take our thoughts captive", casting our care on Him, understanding Jesus better, and being willing to be refined instead of negative. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wagaMMShbOQ
Like we have seen with the exposure of corruption and secret agendas in our government, our spiritual enemy is trying to advance his evil agenda by creating an internal conflict in us. We are forgiven and delivered from sin's bondage, but we sometimes still allow our flesh to have a place. This grieves and quenches the Holy Spirit. So the Lord gives us a strong, intentional plan to protect our heart and consistently reject sin in our lives.. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38u1uIQT4io&t=4860s
When Israel finally occupied the Promised Land, the Lord told them to drive out all their enemies, because they defied the Lord and might influence them to worship false gods. But Israel allowed them to persist, holding an ungrateful and careless attitude toward God's commands. So many of our problems, and the reason we often get stuck, is because we refuse to eradicate the enemies of our faith, instead of living in self-sacrifice under Christ's Lordship. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mA_Gio9z8g0&t=12s
The Lord offers eternal life to us, and makes abundant life so simple, but somehow we still can feel stuck, lacking in discernment and needing consistency. In Psalm 19, David says the answers are found in the strength of God's Word, which offers 6 traits that refresh our soul and provide strength and stability. He reminds us that the Word is more precious than gold and sweeter than honey. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyUThuM31EA&t=4650s
Our emotions and feelings are powerful and can become debilitating if we focus on them and ourselves. So in Psalm 42 & 43, we are called to "speak to our soul", challenging it's doubt of God's faithful provision. We have to identify the root of our despair, knowing that coveting and regret impede us from walking by faith, and live in hope in the Lord by seeking and walking in His wisdom. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-d5UQBX99U&t=3294s
As believers, it is vital that we have a strong understanding of the cross. Through it, Christ is eternally established as the Victorious King, who has permanently defeated the devil. Because of the cross, we should be ecstatic about our position and also recognize all He is doing. He has given us power and authority, and a unique calling to draw everyone to Himself. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctfJfXYjDHA&t=1985s
New research is finding that some of our memories may be stored in the cells of the heart, in addition to our brain. So when a person gets a heart transplant, often the donor's preferences, temperament and identity can also be transferred to the recipient. In Ezekiel, the Lord assures us that He gives us a new heart and a new spirit when we trust in Jesus Christ, and that as a new creation, we now have new desires and the fruit of His Spirit tangibly evident in our lives. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4QdTsc3zw8&t=3846s
After a period of great rebellion against the Lord, He called Israel to consecration, and His presence regularly came down to be among them in the Tent of Meeting. When it came time to build the more permanent Tabernacle, He called Bezalel to be the chief artisan, along with Oholiab. Bezalel was chosen for his heart for the Lord, Who filled him with His Spirit and equipped him for the work. Bezalel's exactness is fulfilling God's Word stands as an example for us to obey "to the letter", and to work hard to honor the Lord and exhibit HIs presence in our lives. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1qHmjh0yfI
Our missionaries from Kenya share how fully the Lord is working in the lives of children and adults in Africa, and how we can minister to them. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDBR8HyUaFU
Esau and Jacob came from a mess of a family situation--with favoritism, deception and resentment. Esau understandably developed a hateful grudge against Jacob after he stole Esau's birthright and blessing. So when they finally saw each other 14 years later, Jacob was terrified his brother would kill him. But Esau's mercy is a huge example of rejecting the pain and bitterness and affect on relationships to experience health and restoration. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkMsa-y1WoY
King Hezekiah of Judah came from a long line of evil kings, including his father, who worshipped idols and corrupted the nation. He instead chose to repair the temple, consecrate the priests and reinstitute Passover and worship. His conviction changed the national culture. Predictably, He was attacked militarily and spiritually, but he recognized he was "fighting an arm of flesh", while he had the Lord fighting his battles. This mindset helps us fight cycles of dysfunction and weakness. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRlEJT9I6cg
We all struggle with uncertainty, insecurity and lack of clarity, because it frustrates us and incites fear. How do we overcome that, and move forward in faith and maturation? When Abraham's servant was sent to find a wife for Isaac, instead of panicking and making an impulsive decision, he prayed to the Lord--specifically and confidently. Before he finished speaking, the Lord showed him Rebekah, proving again how He delights in amazing us with His power and generosity. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9-sJ-j3d6A
When the Lord gives the 10 Commandments, the first 3 all emphasize that He is the only God, and that we must not worship any false gods or idols. It can be hard for us to grasp that God subsequently calls Himself "a Jealous God", because our concept of jealousy is almost always self-centered and and manipulative. But He is jealous for our soul, and desires to bless us with His love, mercy, transformation and leading. So we need to analyze whether He is foremost and only priority in our lives. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNvtzbuLbAg
The account of Jesus' incarnation can be so familiar that we lose our sense of awe over the miracle of God's mercy. That was true when He was born--very few people were looking for the arrival of Messiah. But two faithful older people--Simeon and Anna--were constantly in the temple, looking for His coming. When they personally saw "God with us", Who came "to save people from their sins", their hearts were overwhelmed with joy. If that is lacking in us, we need to look again to the Saviour. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fE5XVjsRIzw
The book of Exodus is an allegory for the spiritual condition of mankind, & God's response. We're in bondage and need deliverance, and only the Lord can provide salvation. But even with that, we can fall into grumbling--a red light indicator of a deficiency of faith and entitled indulgence. Our flesh pushes us into the negative and forgets God's goodness. But He proves Himself over and over as Jehovah Rapha--the Lord our Healer. We can always trust Him to meet any of our needs. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watchv=n8rDpv0syi8&t=3511s
When given an assignment by the Lord that shows just how valuable our faith is, Abraham didn't waver, even though he may not have understood why. He told his son that the Lord would provide the lamb for the sacrifice. It is a powerful advance picture of Jesus Christ, and proves that God not only knows and provides what we need in advance, but also that we can confidently lay everything on the altar with full trust. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YW-RzAhElhw
After one bad decision had far-reaching consequences on history and on Hagar, she was left alone in a desperate situation, likely feeling very marginalized like so many do now. But she quickly learned that the Lord saw her situation and was there to minister to her, learning that it was an opportunity to learn to depend on the Lord. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiMOeZO8s1g
At Judah's lowest point--in captivity, having offended the Lord for centuries--He sends the prophet Ezekiel to tell them He hasn't forgotten them, and has a future plan to restore them in the New Jerusalem, which will be called, "The God Who Is There". The Lord proves that amazing truth to us in 5 distinctive ways in our lives, and that ministry is powerful and comforting. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkKrkSPo7Pk
To develop the discipline of trusting the Lord, we have to accept Him as our Shepherd--at all times, in every way. As sheep, we are stubborn and inclined to wander, but His leadership not only supplies what we need personally, but He also repairs our soul, prods us when we need to move and corrects us when we're wrong. But He does so in order to bless us and lead us into abundant life. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZE4IOg6RzRQ&t=4637s
The Lord had miraculously and faithfully proven His Personal provision to Israel, but after the Red Sea, they started to complain and doubt Him. When the Amalekites attacked them, Moses relied on God's power to give them victory, utilizing the support of others. When Israel won because of the Lord's help, Moses built an altar called "The Lord is my Banner". indicating their humble confidence in Him, and seeking His leadership, protection and victory going forward. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itqWo65r-tE&t=1265s
After miraculously surviving what should have been a fatal car accident in his teens, Jamie Tuinstra shares how it the experience was unexpectedly repeated 30 years later when his nephew endured a similar accident. In both cases, the goodness and mercy of God was on full display, changing perspectives and giving a deeper sense of gratitude to the Lord and calling to serve. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r84LoRFdlhs&t=3s
For centuries, Judah had been defiant toward God, even though He had made Himself known to them and given them His Law--a situation that is very similar to the world in 2024. Knowing that we need righteousness but can't secure it, God chose to show mercy and become our righteousness through Jesus Christ. In response, it is vital that we consecrate ourselves and live in the sanctification that only He can provide...and willingly does. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9aR76il_B0&t=3959s
In Genesis, Abraham was called away from his home and family and certainty to obey God, simply trusting in God's Word and leading. He was confident in God as El Shaddai, the Lord God Almighty, Who is All-Sufficient. This 3 meaning of this Name all provide a beautiful picture of the God Who gives life, is our comfort and strength, our safety, and sustains us when we humbly respect Him. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtCr5Pt5cAU
When God met Moses at the burning bush, and Moses asked Who was sending Him to Egypt, God called Himself "I AM". This indicated that He is the essence of all existence, and the Only God, Who is over everyone and all things. This Name--THE Name of God--is YHWH, which we pronounce Yehova, and is so sacred that the Jews won't say or write it. In a time when God's Name is abused by culture, we can draw strength that He is the Master of all, but also the Personal God Who is present for His people. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7wBMky5Uqs
When the Pharisees brought a woman who had sinned to Jesus to try to trap Him into being either too lenient or too harsh, He put the focus back on their own hypocrisy. But He didn't overlook the woman's sin, because like all of us, she was guilty. He showed He's willing to forgive and cleanse us, while also calling us to stop sinning. His mercy also challenges us to "drop" past guilt, and painful experiences and offenses we're holding onto, which hinder our faith and growth. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEJXMyQP1mg
Paul's letter to the Ephesians teaches powerful truths: That we are only saved through Christ, Who then gives us full access to the Father and makes us part of HIs "house". He calls us to build up our personal temple, and for the Church to be strong in Him. So we have to look at the current state of our spiritual house, assess Who and what we are using as our Cornerstone, and then evaluate our blueprints, active progress and plans for expansion, so we are abounding in our maturity and ministry. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DQG-fKbaNc&t=1615s
Just like the prophet Jeremiah, we live in a time when truth is opposed and altered. For him, it was false prophets who convinced the people that his message from the Lord was false, and that they wouldn't face discipline for their calloused rebellion. For us, we have to resist the narcissistic thinking that God should tolerate sin and do everything we want, and trust the Lord, defending and walking in the truth of His Word. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uliz-sU7GzM
To help us evaluate the genuineness of our faith and relationship with the Lord, He gives us a distinctive contrast in Jeremiah 17 regarding the source of our trust. Those who trust in mankind and themselves--the lie culture gives us--not only ultimately fail, but they are cursed because pride and man's plans are unstable and futile. But trusting in the Lord brings life and security, and unusual out ward proof that our life has been transformed by Jesus. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dn40w-VVDMo
Because the enemy is constantly trying to breed instability in our lives, it is vital we develop consistent, foundational pillars to help offset that. Being faithful and dependable is undervalued in our culture, but spiritually, it is vital for our faith and is blessed by the Lord. When we are confident in our Biblical convictions, it prevents compromise and also allows us to "always abound" in life and the work of the Lord. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m68ZF-WOlJk
It is a remarkable concept that the God of the universe, Who we offended with our sin, would even think about us, let alone "long to be gracious" to us and "wait to have compassion" on us. But that's the reality of HIs mercy. And it should cause us to long for Him, not just because there is no one and nothing that compares to Him, but because He promises to bless us when we do. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDFDnk_Pftg&t=4497s
When Paul wrote to the Philippians, he urged them to have a nonconformist mindset by looking at Jesus' example of humility and sacrifice. He summed it all up in one phrase: "For me, to live is Christ". When the purpose of our lives as believers is to have Him at the center, it will be unmistakably obvious to those around us and they will be drawn to it. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xmn6QjDidI&t=3981s
When a woman with a rough past came and worshipped Jesus in a unique way, some were appalled, but Jesus commended her for her sacrifice. Her actions reflected Paul's words in Philippians 3, when he described all his personal and spiritual accomplishments as rubbish compared to knowing Christ. Keeping an acute awareness of what Jesus has done for us radically changes how we think and live. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSQ3SVO0aYQ&t=6066s
Knowing we need wisdom more than anything, we still have important needs in our life. In the case of Bartimaeus, a blind beggar in Jericho, it was to receive his sight. But his desperate cry to Jesus for mercy reveals that he recognized Jesus first as Messiah, and also that he was asking with bold, active faith. The fact that Jesus stopped and helped him stirs us to be confident in God's mercy, and to remember that we won't receive if we never ask. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2vCiYD3l2o
Money, relationships, jobs, health--they all cause stress and worry. But the Bible tells us that the answer is not more resources or relief from these issues--it is wisdom...which is a full understanding of God's heart, commands and leading. That seems odd because wisdom isn't tangible, but the Lord promises it will bring security, confidence and peace. By studying Jesus, spending time in His presence and sanctifying our heart to holiness, we can gain this wisdom for our lives. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-EZcDC2TWk
We live in a time of pervasive and intrusive technology that "knows" everything about us. Rather than panic or give in to this, we need to be reminded that the Lord truly knows us--and especially His children--far more than a camera. He knows our thoughts and scrutinizes our lives to give us strength and encourage us to trust and take refuge in His loving and faithful provision. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGVlHXuQePk&t=3626s
After the fall of man, there was a group of people who "began to call on the Name of the Lord". This has always been the true heritage of God's people, and yet, especially the American Church in 2024 shows little interest or practice or prayer. We may think it makes no difference, or feel embarrassed, but a lack of prayer will only limit us from experiencing God's presence and power. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pwzK_rYkF0
When we go through very difficult times, it is easy to wonder why the Lord is allowing it, or to even question His faithfulness--even when there has been abundant evidence of His kindness and help before. When Israel was "trapped" between the Red Sea and Egyptian armies, the Lord called them to move ahead in faith. It's a reminder that He defends us, removes obstacles and lead us when we trust in Him. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIjm7s8NS54
As we walk intentionally in this new life in Christ, we must not only "walk worthy of the Lord, pleasing Him in every way", but we also must be encouraging each other to do the same. Even while in jail, the apostle Paul had co-labourers who stepped up to faithfully serve in simple ways, with the mindset of a bondservant. This greatly encouraged Paul, and advanced the ministry of the Gospel in significant ways, and it's our calling to fulfill and finish the work. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uk7EeyL7WAY&t=4880s
Two of our high school graduates who are called by the Lord powerfully share what the Lord has been teaching them. Matthew Rhoads shares from James 1 about trusting the Lord at all times, even in trials, and as the passage says, "taking control of your joy". Nicolas Lopez talks from Acts 4 about the need to disciple others in the fullness of God and the power of the Holy Spirit. Video of this service is available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bi2gUKykXaU&t=22s
Often, we can become "frustrated" with the Lord when we face unhappiness or difficulty. We may see Him as unfair, simply because we don't understand or agree with His will. So the apostle Paul gives us 5 basic instructions at the start of Colossians 4, designed to keep us in the right mindset and also equip us for evangelism and discipling others. If we are wise, and speak with grace in every opportunity, we will be effective. Video of this service is also available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5ip2_VFcYM
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