Activating Kingdom Faith: Embracing the Impossible
Summary
### Summary
Hallelujah! Today, we gathered to celebrate the goodness of God and to delve deeper into the concept of kingdom faith. We began by acknowledging the newlyweds, Kevin and Stacy, and the joy of being part of their beautiful ceremony in Hawaii. This set the tone for a message centered on faith, peace, and joy—key elements of kingdom faith as discussed by Pastor Raul and Safi in previous sermons.
We revisited the stories of Abraham, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, and the apostles, highlighting their unwavering faith in God despite facing seemingly impossible situations. These biblical heroes exemplified kingdom faith, which produces peace and joy that surpass understanding. Their stories remind us that faith is not just about believing but also about acting on God's word with complete trust.
The core of today's message was about activating our faith. We explored John 10:27, where Jesus says, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." This verse underscores the importance of hearing God's voice, knowing Him intimately, and following His lead. Faith is a gift from God, but it requires us to nurture it through intimacy with Him and to exercise it like a muscle to see it grow.
We also discussed the importance of stepping out in faith, even when it seems impossible. God calls us not just to do hard things but to do the impossible, which requires us to surrender completely to Him. This surrender is rooted in a heart posture that prioritizes God above all else. When we live in this kind of faith, we experience a peace and joy that are not dependent on our circumstances.
Finally, we were reminded that spiritual attacks are often a sign that we are on the right path. Satan can see the potential in the seed of faith God has planted in us and will try to thwart it. But we are called to fight back with the spiritual weapons God has given us. Today is a call to action to activate our faith, stand on God's promises, and live in the realm of the impossible.
### Key Takeaways
1. Kingdom Faith Produces Peace and Joy: True kingdom faith brings a peace that surpasses understanding and a joy that is unspeakable. This peace and joy are not dependent on our circumstances but are rooted in our trust in God. When we walk in kingdom faith, we experience a deep sense of calm and happiness, even in the face of trials. [04:59]
2. Hearing God's Voice: John 10:27 teaches us that Jesus' sheep hear His voice, know Him, and follow Him. This hearing is not just physical but spiritual, requiring intimacy with God. Faith comes from hearing the word of God, and this spiritual hearing activates our faith, enabling us to discern and understand God's will for our lives. [10:29]
3. Faith is Birthed and Nurtured Through Intimacy: Faith is a gift from God, but it grows through our intimate relationship with Him. Just as a muscle needs to be exercised to grow, our faith needs to be nurtured through regular communion with God. This intimacy builds trust, enabling us to step out in faith even when it seems impossible. [18:58]
4. Called to the Impossible: God calls us not just to do hard things but to do the impossible. This requires us to surrender completely to Him, trusting that He will accomplish what we cannot. When we face impossible situations, our faith is activated, and God's purpose for our lives is drawn out. [26:37]
5. Spiritual Warfare and Faith Activation: Spiritual attacks are often a sign that we are on the right path. Satan can see the potential in the seed of faith God has planted in us and will try to thwart it. We must fight back with the spiritual weapons God has given us, standing firm in our faith and activating it to fulfill God's purpose in our lives. [39:37]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[0:30] - Acknowledging the Newlyweds
[1:30] - Introduction to Kingdom Faith
[3:15] - Abraham's Faith and Peace
[4:22] - Daniel in the Lion's Den
[4:59] - Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego
[6:00] - Apostles' Faith in Acts
[7:13] - Activating Our Faith
[8:52] - Prayer and John 10:27
[10:29] - Hearing God's Voice
[11:43] - Chasing After God
[15:03] - Intimacy and Trust
[18:58] - Faith as a Muscle
[23:13] - Called to the Impossible
[26:37] - Faith Activates Purpose
[30:25] - Spiritual Warfare
[39:37] - Satan Can Read a Seed
[49:07] - Living in the Impossible
[52:26] - Call to Response
[57:00] - Closing Prayer and Praise
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. John 10:27 (NIV) - "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me."
2. Romans 10:17 (NIV) - "Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ."
3. Hebrews 11:1 (NIV) - "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to John 10:27, what are the three actions that Jesus' sheep take? How do these actions relate to our faith journey?
2. In the sermon, what examples were given of biblical heroes who demonstrated kingdom faith? ([03:15])
3. What does the Greek word "akousin" mean, and how does it relate to hearing God's voice? ([10:29])
4. How did the pastor describe the relationship between faith and intimacy with God? ([18:58])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean to "hear" God's voice in a spiritual sense, as described in John 10:27 and Romans 10:17? How does this differ from physical hearing? ([10:29])
2. How does the story of Abraham and Isaac illustrate the concept of kingdom faith producing peace and joy? ([03:15])
3. Why is it important to exercise faith like a muscle, and what are some practical ways to do this in our daily lives? ([18:58])
4. How can spiritual attacks be a sign that we are on the right path, and what should our response be according to the sermon? ([39:37])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you experienced peace and joy despite difficult circumstances. How did your faith play a role in that experience? ([04:59])
2. How can you cultivate a deeper intimacy with God to better hear His voice? What specific steps will you take this week to spend more time in His presence? ([10:29])
3. Identify an area in your life where God is calling you to step out in faith. What is one practical action you can take this week to respond to that call? ([26:37])
4. Have you ever faced a situation that seemed impossible? How did you respond, and what did you learn about your faith through that experience? ([27:18])
5. What spiritual weapons can you use to fight back against attacks on your faith? How can you incorporate these into your daily routine? ([39:37])
6. Think about a promise from God that you have been holding onto. How can you activate your faith to see that promise come to fruition? ([25:13])
7. How can you support others in your small group or community who are facing impossible situations? What practical steps can you take to encourage and uplift them? ([30:25])
This guide is designed to help your small group delve deeper into the concepts of kingdom faith, peace, and joy, and to encourage practical steps in activating and nurturing faith in daily life.
Devotional
Day 1: Kingdom Faith Brings Unshakable Peace and Joy
True kingdom faith brings a peace that surpasses understanding and a joy that is unspeakable. This peace and joy are not dependent on our circumstances but are rooted in our trust in God. When we walk in kingdom faith, we experience a deep sense of calm and happiness, even in the face of trials. The stories of Abraham, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, and the apostles remind us that unwavering faith in God can produce a peace and joy that the world cannot offer. Their lives exemplify how faith can transform our perspective, allowing us to remain steadfast and joyful regardless of the challenges we face.
This kind of faith is not passive but active, requiring us to trust God completely and to act on His word. It is a faith that moves mountains and brings about God's kingdom on earth. As we cultivate this faith, we will find that our peace and joy are not shaken by external circumstances but are anchored in the eternal promises of God. [04:59]
Isaiah 26:3-4 (ESV): "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock."
Reflection: Think of a recent situation where you felt anxious or troubled. How can you apply kingdom faith to experience God's peace and joy in that situation today?
Day 2: Hearing God's Voice
John 10:27 teaches us that Jesus' sheep hear His voice, know Him, and follow Him. This hearing is not just physical but spiritual, requiring intimacy with God. Faith comes from hearing the word of God, and this spiritual hearing activates our faith, enabling us to discern and understand God's will for our lives. To hear God's voice, we must cultivate a close relationship with Him through prayer, meditation on His word, and a heart that is open to His leading.
When we hear God's voice, it guides us in our daily decisions and helps us to stay aligned with His purpose for our lives. This spiritual hearing is a vital aspect of our faith journey, as it allows us to navigate life's challenges with divine wisdom and direction. By prioritizing time with God and seeking His voice, we can grow in our ability to hear and follow Him more closely. [10:29]
1 Kings 19:11-12 (ESV): "And he said, 'Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord.' And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper."
Reflection: In what ways can you create space in your daily routine to listen for God's voice? How can you ensure that you are not distracted by the "earthquakes" and "fires" of life?
Day 3: Faith is Birthed and Nurtured Through Intimacy
Faith is a gift from God, but it grows through our intimate relationship with Him. Just as a muscle needs to be exercised to grow, our faith needs to be nurtured through regular communion with God. This intimacy builds trust, enabling us to step out in faith even when it seems impossible. Spending time in God's presence, studying His word, and engaging in heartfelt prayer are essential practices for nurturing our faith.
As we draw closer to God, our understanding of His character deepens, and our confidence in His promises strengthens. This intimate relationship with God transforms our faith from a mere belief into a powerful force that shapes our actions and decisions. By prioritizing our relationship with God, we allow our faith to flourish and become a guiding light in our lives. [18:58]
James 4:8 (ESV): "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."
Reflection: What specific steps can you take this week to deepen your intimacy with God? How can you make time for Him in your daily schedule?
Day 4: Called to the Impossible
God calls us not just to do hard things but to do the impossible. This requires us to surrender completely to Him, trusting that He will accomplish what we cannot. When we face impossible situations, our faith is activated, and God's purpose for our lives is drawn out. This call to the impossible is an invitation to rely on God's strength and wisdom rather than our own abilities.
By stepping out in faith and embracing the impossible, we allow God to work through us in extraordinary ways. This surrender to God's will opens the door for miracles and breakthroughs that we could never achieve on our own. It is in these moments of complete dependence on God that we experience His power and faithfulness most profoundly. [26:37]
Matthew 19:26 (ESV): "But Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.'"
Reflection: Identify an area in your life where you feel called to do something impossible. How can you surrender this situation to God and trust Him to accomplish it through you?
Day 5: Spiritual Warfare and Faith Activation
Spiritual attacks are often a sign that we are on the right path. Satan can see the potential in the seed of faith God has planted in us and will try to thwart it. We must fight back with the spiritual weapons God has given us, standing firm in our faith and activating it to fulfill God's purpose in our lives. Recognizing that spiritual warfare is a reality helps us to stay vigilant and prepared for the battles we face.
God has equipped us with spiritual armor and weapons, such as prayer, the word of God, and the power of the Holy Spirit, to stand against the enemy's schemes. By actively engaging in spiritual warfare, we protect the seed of faith within us and ensure that it grows to its full potential. This proactive stance in our faith journey enables us to overcome obstacles and fulfill the divine purpose God has for our lives. [39:37]
Ephesians 6:11-13 (ESV): "Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm."
Reflection: What spiritual weapons can you use to combat the attacks you are currently facing? How can you strengthen your faith to stand firm against these challenges?
Quotes
1. "So I want to just continue on. Let's recap that a little bit on Wednesday night. So, you know, Safi, she brought back some of the heroes of our faith, right, in the Old Testament. She talked about Abraham and how, man, Abraham, he had this kingdom faith. And when God called him to do the unspeakable thing, that was to sacrifice his son, his only son. Abraham didn't hesitate. He had a peace because of the faith that he had in Yahweh, the faith that he had in God." [03:15] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "He had this peace about it. God was calling him to do something unspeakable, impossible. But he knew that Isaac was the son of promise, right? So whatever you're going to do, God, I don't know what you're going to do, but I know you're going to do something. I'm just going to obey you. I'm going to walk in this kingdom faith. And he had peace through it all. There was no hesitation, right?" [03:15] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And what happens? They're thrown in this blazing, fiery furnace, this furnace that is so hot it says that even the guards perished as they approached it. But what happens, right? They're in the furnace, and there's a fourth man in the fire walking around and dancing with them. Complete peace that they had. Joy. Most theologians say that that other man in the fire was Jesus himself walking with them in that fire. It says they came out of that fire, and they didn't even smell like smoke." [04:59] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So what is the charge to us, people of God? We need to activate our faith. And I'm not saying that some of you aren't walking in faith, but is there a greater measure of faith, maybe, that God is calling to activate in your life? Always. Always, right? This word activate in itself, what does activate mean? It really means to put something into action. To get ready to put something into action. That's when something is activated, right? I believe today that God is saying, are you ready to put your faith into action?" [07:13] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I believe that it's through intimacy. That this faith is birthed in our life. That once we get to know God, there is this seed of faith that is deposited in our heart. As we know him, we begin to be able to trust him. Does anybody like to snorkel? Has anybody been snorkeling before? I love to snorkel when we go to Hawaii or anywhere tropical. It's amazing just to go out there and just to see the beauty of the reefs and the fish." [18:58] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "So intimacy with God will always be the foundation of your faith life. Always. But there comes a time, and some of you are in that time right now, where some heavy lifting is required to continue to develop that faith into what it is that God has for you. And we're going to talk about this in a second. I believe that he's called all of us to the impossible. All of us. Some of you have already walked through some impossible things in your life. And look at you now. You're standing on the other side. Better, stronger, with a testimony because of it." [23:54] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "I believe that God has called each one of us to do the impossible things. Because it's in the impossible that we know it's not our own self. It's not our own ability. God, I have to surrender to you. I have to walk in faith. And it's in those things that he begins to draw some things out of you that you never knew were in there. But he's deposited some things in each one of you. Amen. And I'm speaking that. That's a prophetic word over your life right now. You have some things in you that God is drawing out of you right now. This is the time. This is the season." [37:30] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "Stop just trying to do hard things. I'm not saying don't do hard things. But don't let that be the limit to what you think God is calling you to. He's calling you past just you doing hard things. Because the hard things are rooted in your ability, your discipline, your effort. Start living in the impossible. I believe that that's what he wants for all of us. And I know I'm talking to a specific group of people. But I'm really, I'm saying this to the body of Christ, the church. But he's called us to live in the impossible." [44:00] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Paul says this. He says, Listen, to live is Christ. And to die is gain. What does he mean by that? As long as I'm alive, Jesus, it is all about you. I'm not saying that your family doesn't matter. Like, no, those things matter, you guys. But I'm talking about, like, what is the pinnacle of your priority in your life? What is the thing you truly put first? Nothing comes close to. I mean, literally, nothing should. You should come close to your love." [47:21] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "When you begin to walk in kingdom faith, when you begin to live in impossible things, there are going to be naysayers all around your life. That begin to say things like, don't, what are you doing? Don't do that. Don't take that risk. Don't do what, what. But you know, God is calling you to do something. You know, you heard his voice and that's all that matters. That's all that matters. The boat was built and it started to rain. And here's the thing too, because the Bible says that the message of the cross is foolishness to those that are perishing." [50:14] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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