Breaking Free: Embracing Communion and Kingdom Mentality
Summary
### Summary
Today's message focused on the value of communion and breaking free from a poverty mentality. Communion is a sacred time for believers to re-center and realign their lives with Christ. It serves as a moment to reflect on our spiritual journey, confess our sins, and seek God's guidance and sanctification. The bread symbolizes Christ's body, broken for us, and the wine represents His blood, which washes away our sins. This act of remembrance helps us to focus on the most important thing we need from God—Himself.
The second part of the message delved into the concept of a poverty mentality. This mindset is not just about lacking money but can also manifest as a lack of resources, opportunities, or even a sense of inferiority. The poverty mentality values possessions over relationships and often leads to a life driven by greed and comparison. Jesus taught that life does not consist of an abundance of possessions but rather in being rich towards God.
We explored the story of Lot and Abraham to illustrate how valuing relationships over material wealth leads to a more fulfilling life. Abraham chose to prioritize his relationship with Lot over the best land, demonstrating a kingdom mentality. In contrast, Lot's choice led to long-term negative consequences.
The message also highlighted the importance of stewardship and the dangers of living for the approval of men. True security and value come from God, not from accumulating wealth. We are called to be channels of God's blessings, not stagnant ponds. This involves asking God how He wants us to use the resources He has given us, rather than hoarding them for our own comfort.
Finally, we discussed the futility of worry and the importance of trusting God completely. Worry is a declaration of self-sufficiency and a lack of trust in God. Instead, we should repent of our worries and trust in God's mercy and grace. Our value and security come from our relationship with Christ, not from our possessions or the approval of others.
### Key Takeaways
1. Communion as Re-centering: Communion is a sacred ritual that helps believers realign their lives with Christ. It serves as a moment to reflect, confess sins, and seek God's guidance. The bread and wine symbolize Christ's body and blood, reminding us of His sacrifice and our need for His sanctification. [20:46]
2. Breaking the Poverty Mentality: A poverty mentality is not just about lacking money but can also manifest as a lack of resources, opportunities, or a sense of inferiority. This mindset values possessions over relationships and leads to a life driven by greed and comparison. True value and security come from being rich towards God. [41:13]
3. Valuing Relationships Over Wealth: The story of Lot and Abraham illustrates the importance of prioritizing relationships over material wealth. Abraham chose to value his relationship with Lot, leading to long-term blessings, while Lot's choice for material gain led to negative consequences. [46:38]
4. Stewardship and Generosity: We are called to be channels of God's blessings, not stagnant ponds. This involves asking God how He wants us to use the resources He has given us, rather than hoarding them for our own comfort. True stewardship reflects a kingdom mentality. [01:00:25]
5. Trusting God Over Worry: Worry is a declaration of self-sufficiency and a lack of trust in God. Instead, we should repent of our worries and trust in God's mercy and grace. Our value and security come from our relationship with Christ, not from our possessions or the approval of others. [01:08:28]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[19:47] - The Value of Communion
[20:46] - Communion as Re-centering
[22:13] - Symbolism of Bread and Wine
[32:52] - Seeking God's Presence
[39:23] - Breaking Free from Poverty Mentality
[41:13] - Understanding Poverty Beyond Money
[43:01] - The Impact of a Poverty Mentality
[44:55] - Valuing Relationships Over Wealth
[46:38] - Lot and Abraham's Choices
[48:28] - The Balance of Work and Rest
[49:57] - True Value and Security
[51:43] - The Futility of Worry
[55:10] - The Purpose of Life
[01:00:25] - Stewardship and Generosity
[01:08:28] - Trusting God Over Worry
[01:15:02] - Closing Prayer and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Luke 12:13-21 - The Parable of the Rich Fool
2. 2 Corinthians 4:6-7 - Treasure in Jars of Clay
3. 1 Timothy 6:17-19 - Instructions to the Rich
### Observation Questions
1. What does Jesus warn against in Luke 12:15, and how does this relate to the concept of a poverty mentality? ([44:55])
2. In the parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21), what was the rich man's mistake, and what was God's response to him? ([55:10])
3. According to 2 Corinthians 4:6-7, what treasure do we have in "jars of clay," and what is its significance? ([53:14])
4. How does 1 Timothy 6:17-19 instruct those who are rich in this world to live, and what is the promised outcome? ([01:12:53])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Jesus emphasize that life does not consist of an abundance of possessions in Luke 12:15? How does this teaching challenge a poverty mentality? ([44:55])
2. In what ways does the story of Lot and Abraham illustrate the importance of valuing relationships over material wealth? ([46:38])
3. How does the concept of being "rich towards God" in Luke 12:21 contrast with the rich man's approach to wealth? ([55:10])
4. What does it mean to be a "channel of God's blessings" rather than a "stagnant pond," and how does this relate to stewardship and generosity? ([01:00:25])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own life: Are there areas where you have valued possessions over relationships? How can you begin to prioritize relationships in those areas? ([46:38])
2. How do you currently practice stewardship with the resources God has given you? What changes can you make to ensure you are being a channel of God's blessings? ([01:00:25])
3. Worry is described as a declaration of self-sufficiency. What are some specific worries you need to repent of, and how can you trust God more in those areas? ([01:08:28])
4. Think about a recent financial decision you made. Did you seek God's guidance in that decision? How can you make future financial decisions that reflect trust in God's provision? ([01:00:25])
5. Identify one way you can be "rich towards God" this week. What practical steps will you take to focus on spiritual wealth rather than material wealth? ([55:10])
6. How can you cultivate a generosity mentality in your daily life? Share one specific action you will take this week to bless someone else with the resources God has given you. ([01:15:02])
7. Reflect on the story of the rich fool. How can you ensure that your security and value come from your relationship with Christ rather than your possessions? ([55:10])
Devotional
Day 1: Communion as a Sacred Re-centering
Communion is a sacred ritual that helps believers realign their lives with Christ. It serves as a moment to reflect, confess sins, and seek God's guidance. The bread and wine symbolize Christ's body and blood, reminding us of His sacrifice and our need for His sanctification. This act of remembrance helps us to focus on the most important thing we need from God—Himself. By participating in communion, we are invited to re-center our lives around Christ, acknowledging our dependence on Him and His grace.
Communion is not just a ritual but a profound spiritual practice that calls us to examine our hearts and lives. It is a time to confess our sins, seek forgiveness, and renew our commitment to follow Christ. The bread and wine are tangible reminders of Jesus' sacrifice, prompting us to remember the depth of His love and the cost of our redemption. As we partake in communion, we are reminded that our true nourishment and strength come from Christ alone.
[20:46]
1 Corinthians 11:28-29 (ESV): "Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself."
Reflection: As you prepare for communion, what specific sins or burdens do you need to confess and lay down before God today? How can you use this time to re-center your life around Christ?
Day 2: Breaking the Chains of a Poverty Mentality
A poverty mentality is not just about lacking money but can also manifest as a lack of resources, opportunities, or a sense of inferiority. This mindset values possessions over relationships and leads to a life driven by greed and comparison. True value and security come from being rich towards God. Breaking free from a poverty mentality involves recognizing that our worth is not determined by material wealth but by our relationship with God and His provision.
This mindset often leads to a life of constant striving and dissatisfaction, as we compare ourselves to others and measure our worth by what we have or lack. Jesus taught that life does not consist of an abundance of possessions but in being rich towards God. By shifting our focus from material wealth to spiritual richness, we can find true contentment and security in God's provision and love.
[41:13]
Luke 12:15 (ESV): "And he said to them, 'Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.'"
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you find yourself comparing your possessions or achievements to others? How can you shift your focus to being rich towards God instead?
Day 3: Valuing Relationships Over Material Wealth
The story of Lot and Abraham illustrates the importance of prioritizing relationships over material wealth. Abraham chose to value his relationship with Lot, leading to long-term blessings, while Lot's choice for material gain led to negative consequences. This story teaches us that true fulfillment comes from valuing and nurturing our relationships rather than pursuing material wealth.
Abraham's decision to prioritize his relationship with Lot over the best land demonstrates a kingdom mentality that values people over possessions. In contrast, Lot's choice to pursue material gain led to long-term negative consequences, highlighting the futility of valuing wealth over relationships. By following Abraham's example, we can experience the blessings that come from prioritizing our relationships and living according to God's principles.
[46:38]
Genesis 13:8-9 (ESV): "Then Abram said to Lot, 'Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are kinsmen. Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself from me. If you take the left hand, then I will go to the right, or if you take the right hand, then I will go to the left.'"
Reflection: Think of a relationship in your life that you may have neglected in pursuit of material gain. How can you prioritize and nurture that relationship starting today?
Day 4: Stewardship and Generosity
We are called to be channels of God's blessings, not stagnant ponds. This involves asking God how He wants us to use the resources He has given us, rather than hoarding them for our own comfort. True stewardship reflects a kingdom mentality, where we recognize that everything we have belongs to God and is to be used for His purposes.
Stewardship is about managing the resources God has entrusted to us in a way that honors Him and blesses others. It requires a mindset of generosity and a willingness to share what we have with those in need. By being faithful stewards, we can experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from being a blessing to others and advancing God's kingdom.
[01:00:25]
1 Peter 4:10 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace."
Reflection: What resources or gifts has God entrusted to you that you can use to bless others? How can you practice generosity and stewardship in your daily life?
Day 5: Trusting God Over Worry
Worry is a declaration of self-sufficiency and a lack of trust in God. Instead, we should repent of our worries and trust in God's mercy and grace. Our value and security come from our relationship with Christ, not from our possessions or the approval of others. By trusting in God, we can experience peace and freedom from the burdens of worry and anxiety.
Worry often stems from a desire to control our circumstances and a lack of trust in God's provision and care. Jesus taught that we should not worry about our lives, but seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. By placing our trust in God, we can experience the peace that comes from knowing that He is in control and will provide for our needs.
[01:08:28]
Matthew 6:31-33 (ESV): "Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
Reflection: What specific worries or anxieties are you holding onto today? How can you surrender these worries to God and trust in His provision and care?
Quotes
1. "Communion is, for us as believers, it's a ritual. It's a realignment. It's just coming to the Lord and saying, Lord, you know, here's some things that I know I need to deal with. I need to maybe let go of or I need a breakthrough in. I need to see victory in this area. So this is our re-centering time of letting the Lord work in our heart to deal with anything that needs to be dealt with." [20:46] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "If there's sin that's causing you to pull. Pull to the left or the right. If there's something in your heart, your mind that's burdening you and weighing you down, it's time to give it to the Lord. bread is the symbol of the body of Christ that was broken. He suffered tremendously for us. Jesus died at a time in history where the Romans had perfected the suffering through the cross. And Jesus suffered horribly. As a peasant, as a king, but he bore it all. He bore all of that on the cross for you and I." [22:13] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The poverty mentality values money over relationships. Luke 12 someone in the crowd said to him to Jesus teacher tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me there's nothing like a little money being passed on from family members to cause a lot of conflict it's not a new apparently it's not a new problem it's it's the same old problem but he said to him Jesus said to him man you know Jesus was hippie man who appointed me to be a judge or arbiter over you." [46:38] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The poverty mentality that even when you're not poor you still feel poor kind of like anorexia of money you know people who have anorexia have no longer been able to identify they think they need to be a little bit thinner they've gotten really good at getting thin but they they can't stop themselves because when they look at themselves they still see themselves as heavy or overweight or however you want to describe it but they're not they just they can't stop and and we're kind of that way with money." [44:55] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The quality of your life is not measured by your possessions. It's measured by your purpose. 2 Corinthians 5, 15. And he died for all so that we who live may no longer live for ourselves, for themselves, but for him who died and rose on our behalf. So the quality of life is not measured by your possessions. It's measured by your purpose. Who are you living for? Why are you living? What are you trying to accomplish?" [01:02:32] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Worry will not help. Worry is sin. The Bible just declares it. It's sin. Why is worry sin? Because worry is a declaration of self-sufficiency. That you trust your ability and your resources to meet your needs more than you trust God. It's a declaration of sin. I don't know what's going on. I don't know what's going to happen here. So I need to sit and stew on it and worry. And that's going to cause the problem to go away." [01:08:28] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "How do you defeat the habit of worry? It's, it's that repentance thing. You know what repentance means? It means to change direction. So you say, God, I've been worrying and I recognize that it's sin. It's not a problem. It's not the way I am. It's not the way I was born. It's what, what I do. It's not what my mom taught me. I recognize that it's sin because it's declaring that I don't trust you. And so I repent of not trusting you in the area of finances. I repent of that." [01:10:39] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "So you can't give and cause it to cancel out bad decisions. But if you'll repent and turn to God, he will help you recover. But one of the things for sure will not change your financial situation. One bit is worry. Worry will not help. Worry is sin. The Bible just declares it. It's sin. Why is worry sin? Because worry is a declaration of self-sufficiency. That you trust your ability and your resources to meet your needs more than you trust God." [01:08:28] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "The only way to live here on this earth is a hundred percent. Jesus of surrendering ourselves and our decisions to him. I first Timothy six, 17, I tell those rich in this world's wealth to quit being so full of themselves. And so obsessed with money, which is here today and gone tomorrow. I tell them to do good after God. I tell them to go after God who piles on the riches, all the riches we could ever imagine to do good, to be rich and helping others, to be extravagant, extravagantly generous." [01:12:53] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "So a poverty mentality we get, you know, a poverty mentality doesn't value people it values things so we have to break free of that number two the poverty mentality gets the purpose of life wrong it thinks that the purpose of life is me luke chapter 12 verse 16 this is jesus continuing to teach in this chapter he's telling several parables about money and he told them a parable saying the land of a rich man was very productive and he began reasoning himself saying what shall i do since i have no place to store my crops." [55:10] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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