Clinging Love: Finding Refuge in God's Presence
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the profound theme of "clinging love" as depicted in Psalm 91. This type of love is deeply rooted in our faith and is characterized by an unwavering commitment to God, even in the face of life's challenges. We began by acknowledging the misconception that becoming a Christian guarantees a trouble-free life. Instead, Psalm 91 teaches us that while we will face difficulties, God's love and protection are steadfast for those who seek refuge in Him.
The sermon highlighted the dynamic interplay between the psalmist, the prophet, and God in Psalm 91. The psalmist, believed to be Moses, speaks only in the first two verses, while the prophet and God take over the narrative, emphasizing the importance of dwelling in the secret place of the Most High and abiding under the shadow of the Almighty. This secret place is a spiritual sanctuary where we find ultimate peace and security in God's presence.
We delved into the significance of knowing God's name, which implies an intimate relationship with Him. This is not merely about intellectual awareness but about a personal encounter with God. The story of Moses and Pharaoh in Exodus illustrates the difference between knowing God's name and having a genuine relationship with Him. Similarly, in the New Testament, the healing of the beggar through faith in Jesus' name exemplifies God's intervention and compassion.
The sermon also addressed the importance of drawing near to God, especially in times of trouble. Psalm 91 assures us that God will answer when we call, be with us in trouble, and deliver and honor us. This multifaceted promise encourages us to maintain faith and hope, even when circumstances seem dire.
In conclusion, we are invited to embody this clinging love by deepening our relationship with God through prayer, worship, and studying His word. Additionally, we are called to extend this steadfast love to others in our families, friendships, and communities. By doing so, we reflect God's unwavering love and faithfulness in our lives.
### Key Takeaways
1. Dwelling in God's Presence: The secret place of the Most High is a spiritual sanctuary where we find ultimate peace and security. This place is deeper and more profound than any earthly comfort, offering a constant sense of God's presence and protection. By abiding in Christ, we cultivate a relationship that bears much fruit and aligns our desires with God's will. [32:02]
2. Knowing God's Name: Knowing God's name goes beyond intellectual awareness; it signifies an intimate relationship and understanding of His character. This personal encounter with God transforms our lives and aligns us with His divine purpose. The story of Moses and Pharaoh illustrates the difference between recognizing God's name and truly knowing Him. [57:42]
3. Drawing Near to God: In times of trouble, we are encouraged to draw near to God, trusting in His promises and relying on His strength. Psalm 91 assures us that God will answer when we call, be with us in trouble, and deliver and honor us. This multifaceted promise provides hope and assurance in the midst of life's challenges. [01:00:34]
4. Loving God in All Circumstances: Clinging love means loving God in every situation, not just when things are going well. This unwavering faith persists through trials and tribulations, reflecting a deep and inseparable bond with God. By holding fast to God in love, we experience His deliverance and protection. [55:31]
5. Extending Love to Others: We are called to extend God's steadfast love to others in our families, friendships, and communities. This means being there for those in need, offering support, and demonstrating loyalty. By embodying this clinging love, we reflect God's character and fulfill our purpose as His disciples. [01:06:41]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[23:09] - Opening Prayer
[23:58] - Announcements
[25:21] - Giving and Missionary Update
[28:00] - Blessing Over Offering
[28:45] - Introduction to New Series
[30:36] - Clinging Love
[32:02] - Misconceptions About Christian Life
[35:05] - Psalm 91: The Author, Prophet, and God
[37:03] - The Secret Place of the Most High
[41:26] - El Elyon and El Shaddai
[45:30] - God's Vigilant Watch
[47:08] - Abiding in Christ
[49:27] - Loving God in All Circumstances
[55:31] - Clinging Love Illustrated
[57:42] - Knowing God's Name
[01:00:34] - Drawing Near to God
[01:06:05] - Deepening Our Relationship with God
[01:06:41] - Extending Love to Others
[01:07:27] - Closing Prayer
[01:08:05] - Communion
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Psalm 91:1-2: "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.'"
2. John 15:5: "I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing."
3. Exodus 5:1-2: "Afterward Moses and Aaron went in and told Pharaoh, 'Thus says the Lord God of Israel: "Let My people go, that they may hold a feast to Me in the wilderness."' And Pharaoh said, 'Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the Lord, nor will I let Israel go.'"
### Observation Questions
1. What does Psalm 91:1-2 describe as the benefits of dwelling in the secret place of the Most High? [36:36]
2. According to John 15:5, what is the result of abiding in Christ? [48:01]
3. In Exodus 5:1-2, how does Pharaoh respond to Moses and Aaron's request, and what does this reveal about his relationship with God? [57:16]
4. How does the sermon describe the dynamic interplay between the psalmist, the prophet, and God in Psalm 91? [35:07]
### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean to dwell in the "secret place of the Most High," and how can this concept be applied to our daily lives? [36:36]
2. How does knowing God's name go beyond intellectual awareness to signify an intimate relationship with Him? [57:16]
3. What are the implications of Jesus' statement in John 15:5 for our personal relationship with Him and our ability to bear fruit? [48:01]
4. How does the story of Moses and Pharaoh illustrate the difference between recognizing God's name and truly knowing Him? [57:16]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt most at peace. How can you create a similar sense of peace by dwelling in God's presence daily? [41:05]
2. In what ways can you deepen your relationship with God through prayer, worship, and studying His word this week? [41:00]
3. Think of a challenging situation you are currently facing. How can you draw near to God and trust in His promises during this time? [01:00:38]
4. How can you demonstrate "clinging love" by loving God in all circumstances, not just when things are going well? [56:46]
5. Identify one person in your life who needs support. How can you extend God's steadfast love to them this week? [01:06:40]
6. What steps can you take to ensure that your relationship with God is not just intellectual but deeply personal and transformative? [57:16]
7. How can you make abiding in Christ a daily practice, and what changes might you need to make in your routine to prioritize this relationship? [48:01]
Devotional
Day 1: Dwelling in God's Presence
The secret place of the Most High is a spiritual sanctuary where we find ultimate peace and security. This place is deeper and more profound than any earthly comfort, offering a constant sense of God's presence and protection. By abiding in Christ, we cultivate a relationship that bears much fruit and aligns our desires with God's will. This sanctuary is not a physical location but a state of being where we are continually aware of and connected to God's presence. It is in this place that we find rest, renewal, and the strength to face life's challenges.
Psalm 91 emphasizes the importance of dwelling in this secret place, under the shadow of the Almighty. This imagery conveys a sense of intimacy and protection, reminding us that God is our refuge and fortress. When we make God our dwelling place, we experience His steadfast love and unwavering protection, even in the midst of life's storms. This abiding relationship with God transforms our lives, giving us peace that surpasses all understanding.
Psalm 27:5 (ESV): "For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will lift me high upon a rock."
Reflection: What steps can you take today to cultivate a deeper awareness of God's presence in your daily life? How can you create a "secret place" in your routine where you can consistently connect with God?
Day 2: Knowing God's Name
Knowing God's name goes beyond intellectual awareness; it signifies an intimate relationship and understanding of His character. This personal encounter with God transforms our lives and aligns us with His divine purpose. The story of Moses and Pharaoh illustrates the difference between recognizing God's name and truly knowing Him. Pharaoh knew of God but did not have a relationship with Him, whereas Moses had an intimate connection with God, which empowered him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
In the New Testament, the healing of the beggar through faith in Jesus' name exemplifies God's intervention and compassion. This story highlights the power of knowing God's name and having a personal relationship with Him. When we truly know God, we experience His love, guidance, and transformative power in our lives. This deep, personal relationship with God is the foundation of our faith and the source of our strength.
Exodus 33:17 (ESV): "And the Lord said to Moses, 'This very thing that you have spoken I will do, for you have found favor in my sight, and I know you by name.'"
Reflection: Reflect on your relationship with God. Do you know Him intimately, or is your knowledge of Him more intellectual? What steps can you take to deepen your personal relationship with God today?
Day 3: Drawing Near to God
In times of trouble, we are encouraged to draw near to God, trusting in His promises and relying on His strength. Psalm 91 assures us that God will answer when we call, be with us in trouble, and deliver and honor us. This multifaceted promise provides hope and assurance in the midst of life's challenges. When we draw near to God, we find comfort, guidance, and the strength to persevere through difficult times.
Drawing near to God involves seeking Him through prayer, worship, and studying His word. It means turning to Him first in times of trouble, rather than relying on our own strength or the world's solutions. By drawing near to God, we align ourselves with His will and experience His peace and protection. This close relationship with God is a source of hope and encouragement, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles.
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: In what areas of your life do you need to draw nearer to God? How can you make seeking God a priority, especially during times of trouble?
Day 4: Loving God in All Circumstances
Clinging love means loving God in every situation, not just when things are going well. This unwavering faith persists through trials and tribulations, reflecting a deep and inseparable bond with God. By holding fast to God in love, we experience His deliverance and protection. This type of love is characterized by a steadfast commitment to God, regardless of our circumstances.
Psalm 91 illustrates this clinging love, showing that those who love God will be delivered and protected by Him. This love is not conditional on our circumstances but is a constant, unwavering commitment to God. It is through this clinging love that we experience God's faithfulness and protection, even in the midst of life's challenges. By loving God in all circumstances, we demonstrate our trust in His goodness and sovereignty.
Romans 8:35-37 (ESV): "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us."
Reflection: Think about a recent challenge or trial you have faced. How did you respond in your relationship with God? How can you cultivate a clinging love that remains steadfast in all circumstances?
Day 5: Extending Love to Others
We are called to extend God's steadfast love to others in our families, friendships, and communities. This means being there for those in need, offering support, and demonstrating loyalty. By embodying this clinging love, we reflect God's character and fulfill our purpose as His disciples. Extending love to others is a tangible expression of our faith and a way to share God's love with the world.
Psalm 91 reminds us of God's unwavering love and protection, which we are called to reflect in our relationships with others. This involves showing compassion, kindness, and support to those around us, especially in times of need. By extending love to others, we become conduits of God's grace and mercy, helping to build a community that reflects His love and faithfulness.
1 John 4:11-12 (ESV): "Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us."
Reflection: Identify someone in your life who needs support or encouragement. How can you extend God's love to them today in a practical and meaningful way?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1.
> "It's easy for us to fall into the trap of thinking that when we become a Christian life will be a smooth sailing from there on out. You get saved and everything will be better, but there's this misconception that simply professing your love for Jesus will shield you from the challenges and hardships of life and then you'll have this trouble-free life until you die. And when we have these unmet expectations and then we suggest that Christianity is not for us or that God never answers our prayers." (43 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2.
> "Clinging love is a love that holds on tightly and never lets go. You found a love you don't want to let go. This kind of love is deeply rooted in our faith and it is a central theme throughout the Bible. It's the kind of love that God actually has for us and it's the type of love that he wants for us to have towards him but also the people that he's calling us to love, the people around us." (29 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3.
> "We often seek security in various forms—insurance policies, car insurance, life insurance, home security systems. These are all good and necessary, but Psalm 91 invites us to consider a higher form of protection beyond the physical. God's protection encompasses our entire being—our physical, emotional, and spiritual health." (62 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4.
> "When faced with difficulties, clinging to God means seeking his presence, trusting in his promises, and relying on him and on his strength. It's about maintaining faith and hope when things seem hopeless." (15 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5.
> "Living in the shelter of the Most High does not mean living a sheltered life. On the cross, but his resurrection affirms the promise of God who remains our refuge, our fortress, and our shield. So we are victorious because of Christ who is invincible." (28 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1.
> "Psalm 91 presents a powerful explanation of how these circumstances can play out in our lives, and it ranges from the dangers and threats to moments of distress and uncertainty. However, in these challenges, the Psalm affirms God's unwavering love and protection for those seeking refuge in him." (26 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2.
> "We are invited to live in the presence of God. By embracing this invitation to live in God's presence, we find refuge and protection from the creator of the universe. We can experience his love, the power of his divine grace in our lives. Now in the New Testament, this concept translates to abiding in Christ, and through this abiding relationship, we discover true authenticity in our faith journey." (34 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3.
> "We must learn to love God in all circumstances. Clinging love means loving God in every situation and not just when things are going well. It's a love that persists through trials and tribulations, having this unwavering faith despite suffering." (34 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4.
> "We must learn to acknowledge God's name. Knowing God's name implies an intimate relationship and understanding of his character and nature. It's not about intellectual awareness but a personal encounter with God." (13 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5.
> "We must learn to draw near to God. Psalm 91:15 says, 'He shall call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him.' Notice the multifaceted nature of this verse: call on God and he will answer; God will be with us in trouble; and God will deliver and honor." (26 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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