Beyond the Walls - Sept 21st 2025 - Mike Royal

It is a joy to gather together and reflect on the calling God has placed on each of our lives. Drawing from Galatians 6:7-10, we are reminded not to grow weary in doing good, for in due season, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Our salvation is a gift of grace, not earned by our works, but we are indeed created in Christ Jesus for good works that God has prepared in advance for us. Each of us has a unique ministry, a purpose that God has designed, and it is not by accident that we are here. Whether our calling is encouragement, service, or another form of ministry, God both calls and sustains us.

In a world that often encourages individualism and self-preservation, we are called to serve others—both within the family of believers and in the wider community. The church is to be a beacon of hope, not retreating in fear or cynicism, but actively seeking to do good and serve. This is not always easy, especially in times of fatigue, discouragement, or when the fruit of our labor seems delayed. Yet, God’s faithfulness is proven time and again, often stepping in just as we reach the end of our own strength.

To persevere in our calling, several principles are vital. First, we must be people of prayer, recognizing that our battle is not merely against flesh and blood, but spiritual forces. Prayer and fasting are not optional extras but essential for breakthrough and strength. Second, we must walk by faith, trusting God to provide and intervene, even when circumstances seem impossible. Third, rest is not a luxury but a necessity, modeled by God Himself and by Jesus, who took time away to be alone and recharge. Finally, we need each other. God has placed us in community for mutual encouragement, support, and accountability. Isolation is a tool of the enemy, but fellowship brings strength and perspective.

As we apply these truths, may we be found faithful in the work God has given us, encouraged to keep going, and confident that He will bring a harvest in due time. Let us lay our burdens at His feet, receive His strength, and continue to serve with joy and perseverance.

Key Takeaways

• 1. We Are Saved for a Purpose, Not by Our Works Salvation is a gift of grace, not something we earn. Yet, God has uniquely shaped each of us for good works, prepared in advance for us to do. Our lives are not accidental; God has a plan and a ministry for every believer, and discovering and walking in that purpose brings fulfillment and meaning. [05:05]
• 2. Serving Others Counters the Spirit of Individualism In a culture that often prioritizes self or family above all else, the call of Christ is to serve both the church and the wider community. This outward focus is a radical act of hope, pushing back against fear and isolation, and embodying the love and mission of Jesus in practical ways. [09:31]
• 3. Perseverance Is Fueled by Prayer and Faith Continuing in good works, especially when weary or discouraged, requires more than human effort. Prayer connects us to God’s strength, and faith enables us to trust Him for provision and breakthrough, even when we reach the end of our own resources. Sometimes, stepping back and allowing God to move is the very act of faith He desires. [14:52]
• 4. Rest Is a Spiritual Discipline, Not a Weakness God Himself modeled rest, and Jesus regularly withdrew for solitude and renewal. Ignoring the need for rest leads to burnout and diminishes our effectiveness. Embracing rhythms of rest and reflection allows God to speak, restore, and guide us into more fruitful service. [16:42]
• 5. Community Is Essential for Endurance and Growth God places us in the body of Christ for mutual encouragement, wisdom, and support. Isolation, especially in times of struggle, is dangerous and contrary to God’s design. Leaning into fellowship, sharing burdens, and receiving encouragement from others are vital for spiritual health and perseverance.
  
  ** [20:22]

Youtube Chapters

• [00:00] - Welcome
• [00:53] - Galatians 6:7-10: Do Not Grow Weary
• [01:36] - Sowing to the Spirit vs. the Flesh
• [02:15] - The Challenge of Burnout in Ministry
• [03:22] - Sustaining Faithfulness Over the Years
• [04:34] - Saved to Do Good Works
• [06:12] - God’s Unique Plan for Each Life
• [07:19] - Discovering and Living Out Your Ministry
• [08:12] - Saved to Serve Others
• [09:31] - The Call to Hope and Service in Community
• [10:14] - Encouragement to Persevere
• [12:12] - God’s Faithfulness in Times of Need
• [13:17] - The Power of Prayer and Fasting
• [14:52] - Faith When Resources Run Out
• [16:30] - The Importance of Rest
• [19:01] - The Gift of Community and Mutual Support
• [20:57] - Living Faithfully Until the End
• [21:54] - Closing Prayer and Ministry

Bible Reading

Galatians 6:7-10 (ESV) — > Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Ephesians 2:8-10 (ESV) — > For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Genesis 2:2 (ESV) — > And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done.

Observation Questions

1. In Galatians 6:7-10, what does Paul say will happen if we do not grow weary in doing good? What is the promised result? [01:36]
2. According to Ephesians 2:8-10, what is the relationship between grace, salvation, and good works? [05:05]
3. The sermon mentions that God rested after creation (Genesis 2:2). How does this example of rest relate to the way we are called to live? [16:30]
4. What are some of the specific challenges mentioned in the sermon that can make it hard to keep serving and doing good? [02:15]

Interpretation Questions

1. The sermon says, “We are not saved by our good works. We are saved by grace. It is God's unmerited favor towards us... But he has saved us and shaped us to do good.” How does understanding this truth affect a person’s motivation to serve others? [05:05]
2. The speaker talks about the culture of individualism and the temptation to focus only on ourselves or our families. Why do you think serving others is so important in the Christian life, especially in today’s world? [08:36]
3. The sermon highlights the need for prayer and faith, especially when we feel like we have nothing left to give. How does prayer help us persevere when we are discouraged or tired? [13:17]
4. The message says that rest is not a weakness but a spiritual discipline. Why might some Christians struggle to embrace rest, and what can happen if we ignore this principle? [16:42]

Application Questions

1. The sermon challenges us not to “grow weary in doing good.” Can you think of a time when you felt like giving up in serving others? What helped you keep going, or what could have helped? [01:36]
2. The speaker shared about discovering his ministry of encouragement as a teenager. What do you sense is your unique calling or ministry? How are you currently walking in it, or what is one step you could take to explore it further? [07:19]
3. In a world that often says, “just look after yourself and your family,” what is one practical way you can serve someone outside your immediate circle this week? [09:31]
4. The sermon emphasizes the importance of prayer and fasting for strength and breakthrough. Is there an area in your life or ministry where you need to see God move? How could you commit to prayer (or even fasting) about it this week? [13:17]
5. Rest is described as a necessity, not a luxury. Are you currently making space for rest and reflection in your life? If not, what is one change you could make to build a healthier rhythm? [16:42]
6. The message warns against isolation, especially during hard times. Is there someone in your church or small group who might be feeling isolated right now? What could you do to reach out and encourage them this week? [20:22]
7. The speaker mentioned the importance of community for encouragement and accountability. How has being part of a church or small group helped you persevere in your faith? Is there a way you could be more intentional in supporting others in your group? [19:44]