Crossover Faith: Embracing Change with Courage and Trust

Devotional

Day 1: Active Pursuit of Divine Presence

Seeking God's presence is not a passive act but an intentional pursuit, requiring one's full attention and heart. This pursuit is akin to following a guide through uncharted territory, where every step is taken with trust and focus on the one leading. The presence of God is a guiding light, a beacon that not only illuminates the path but also provides the assurance of companionship and direction. To actively seek this presence is to acknowledge the need for divine navigation through life's complexities and to submit to the wisdom that surpasses all understanding.

In the context of crossover faith, this pursuit involves recognizing that God's presence goes before us, preparing the way and setting the stage for the wonders He has planned. It is a reminder that, while the future may be uncertain, the presence of God is a constant certainty. Trusting in His guidance means acknowledging that His vision is perfect, and His timing is impeccable. The journey may require patience and the willingness to follow at a distance, but it is in this space that faith is stretched and strengthened.

"O Lord, I call upon you; hasten to me! Give ear to my voice when I call to you! Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice!" - Psalm 141:1-2 (ESV)

Reflection: How can you cultivate a daily practice that prioritizes seeking God's presence in your life?

Day 2: Honoring Divine Order through Leadership

Submitting to godly leadership is an expression of faith in the divine order established by God. It is a recognition that authority is instituted by God for the purpose of guiding and protecting His people. This submission is not blind obedience but a conscious choice to respect and follow the leaders who have been called to serve in God's kingdom. It is an acknowledgment that these leaders are vessels through which God's wisdom and guidance flow.

The act of submission is a testament to one's trust in God's sovereignty and His ability to work through human instruments. It is an understanding that godly leadership is a gift, meant to edify and equip the body of Christ. By honoring and obeying those in authority, believers align themselves with God's will, fostering unity and peace within the community of faith. This alignment is not just for the individual's benefit but for the collective growth and spiritual well-being of the entire congregation.

"Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you." - Hebrews 13:17 (ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you demonstrate a spirit of submission and support to the leaders God has placed in your life?

Day 3: The Necessity of Spiritual Readiness

Consecration is the intentional act of dedicating oneself to God, a spiritual readiness that is essential for embracing the fullness of what God has in store. It is not a mere outward display of piety but an inward transformation that sets one apart for divine purposes. Spiritual preparation involves a deep cleansing of the heart and mind, allowing the Holy Spirit to renew and prepare the believer for the journey ahead.

This readiness is not a one-time event but a continuous process of aligning one's will with God's will. It is a commitment to live in a state of expectancy, eagerly anticipating the wonders that God will reveal. By setting themselves apart, believers make room for God to move powerfully in their lives, opening the door to experiences that transcend human understanding. The act of consecration is a personal declaration of availability to God's plans and purposes.

"But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'" - 1 Peter 1:15-16 (ESV)

Reflection: What are some specific ways you can set yourself apart for God's purposes in your daily life?

Day 4: Humility as the Path to Exaltation

Humility is the fertile soil in which God's plans for elevation and growth take root. It is the recognition that true greatness in the kingdom of God is not achieved through self-promotion but through servanthood. A humble heart is open to learning, correction, and guidance, understanding that elevation comes in God's timing and according to His methods. Humility is not self-deprecation but a balanced view of oneself that acknowledges both strengths and weaknesses.

The journey of humility involves serving faithfully, often in roles that may seem insignificant or unnoticed. Yet, it is in these acts of service that character is refined and faithfulness is tested. By adopting a posture of humility, believers demonstrate their trust in God's plan for their lives, confident that He will exalt them in due time. This humility is not passive but active, seeking to serve others and honor God in all aspects of life.

"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves." - Philippians 2:3 (ESV)

Reflection: How can you practice humility today in a way that serves others and reflects your trust in God's timing for your life?

Day 5: Faith as a Communal Journey

Crossover faith is not a solitary endeavor but a shared experience within the community of believers. It is the understanding that faith is strengthened and lived out in the context of relationships. As individuals share their faith journeys, they bear one another's burdens, fulfilling the law of Christ. This communal aspect of faith provides support, accountability, and a sense of belonging.

The community of faith is a tapestry of diverse stories and experiences, woven together by the common thread of Christ's love. It is in this fellowship that believers find encouragement, wisdom, and the opportunity to practice the 'one another' commands of Scripture. By investing in the lives of fellow believers, individuals contribute to the growth and edification of the body of Christ, making the journey of faith richer and more meaningful.

"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." - Galatians 6:2 (ESV)

Reflection: What is one practical way you can engage with and support the faith journey of another believer this week?

Sermon Summary

In our journey with the Lord, we are called to be a people of crossover faith, embracing the moments of transition and change with courage and spiritual readiness. As we stand on the precipice of the unknown, much like the Israelites on the banks of the Jordan River, we are filled with a blend of excitement and trepidation. Yet, it is in these very moments that our faith is most deeply engaged and our dependence on God most evident.

Crossover faith is about following God courageously, which begins with seeking His presence. The Ark of the Covenant, carried by the Levitical priests, was a tangible symbol of God's presence leading the Israelites. We, too, must follow the Lord's leading, trusting in His perfect guidance and timing. As the Israelites were instructed to maintain a distance from the Ark, we are reminded that God knows the perfect distance to lead us, ensuring we can see where He is taking us.

Furthermore, crossover faith involves submitting to God's appointed leaders. Joshua's leadership was not for self-glorification but was a divine calling to guide God's people. We are called to submit to godly leadership within our families and our church, recognizing that such order is for our protection and provision. As we submit to those God has placed over us, we do so for the joy and benefit of all.

Lastly, crossover faith is about preparing ourselves spiritually. Consecration, or spiritual readiness, is essential for experiencing the wonders God has in store for us. It is not about purifying our possessions or rituals but about purifying ourselves. This spiritual preparation today is what readies us for the blessings and wonders of God tomorrow.

As we engage in crossover faith, we must also embrace humility. Joshua's readiness for elevation came after his humility in serving Moses. We, too, should humble ourselves, trusting that God will exalt us in His time and way. Our focus should not be on self-exaltation but on serving God and others faithfully.

In summary, crossover faith is a dynamic and active trust in God as we navigate the significant moments of change in our lives. It is a faith that courageously follows God's presence, submits to His leadership, prepares spiritually, and embraces humility. Let us be a people who seize our crossover moments with faith, believing that God will do great wonders among us.

Key Takeaways

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Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What specific instructions did Joshua give to the Israelites regarding the Ark of the Covenant in Joshua 3:3-4?
According to Joshua 3:5, what were the Israelites instructed to do in preparation for crossing the Jordan River?
How does Hebrews 13:17 describe the relationship between church members and their leaders?
What does Galatians 6:2 say about the responsibilities believers have towards one another?

Interpretation Questions

Why do you think Joshua emphasized the need for the Israelites to consecrate themselves before crossing the Jordan River? [55:02]
How does the concept of "crossover faith" as described in the sermon relate to the Israelites' experience at the Jordan River? [34:40]
In what ways does submitting to godly leadership, as mentioned in Hebrews 13:17, contribute to spiritual growth and community well-being? [50:17]
How can bearing one another's burdens, as stated in Galatians 6:2, strengthen the faith community and individual believers? [54:10]

Application Questions

Reflect on a recent "crossover moment" in your life. How did you seek God's presence and guidance during that time? [49:33]
Joshua instructed the Israelites to consecrate themselves. What specific steps can you take to spiritually prepare yourself for the challenges and opportunities ahead? [55:23]
How do you currently respond to the leadership within your church or family? What changes can you make to better align with the biblical principle of submitting to godly leadership? [50:17]
Think of a time when you felt overwhelmed by a personal burden. How did the support of fellow believers help you through that period? How can you be that support for someone else now? [54:10]
Joshua's humility in serving Moses prepared him for leadership. In what areas of your life can you practice humility to prepare for future responsibilities? [01:02:22]
The sermon emphasized the importance of community in our faith journey. How can you actively engage with your church community to share your faith and burdens? [54:10]
Identify one area in your life where you need to exercise "crossover faith." What practical steps will you take this week to follow God courageously in that area? [49:33]

Sermon Clips

- "God knows the perfect distance to be out in front of us. He knows exactly how far to be out in front of us, to lead us where it is that he desires to go." [48:54](Download | Download)

- "Crossover faith follows God courageously by sharing with his people... Your faith is personal, but look here, your faith isn't private." [54:10](Download | Download)

- "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you... It's the idea of a spiritual work of preparation, and notice the instruction that Joshua gives to the people as it relates to this self-consecration." [55:23](Download | Download)

- "To be right with God today is to be ready for the wonders of God tomorrow... our spiritual readiness today prepares us and believes God for the wonders he's going to give tomorrow." [56:51](Download | Download)

- "Joshua's readiness for being elevated comes after his righteousness in being humbled... His readiness for the elevation, the exaltation comes after his righteousness in his humility." [01:02:22](Download | Download)

- "Let us also humble ourselves so that at the right time and in the right way God might exalt us. Let us not seek that exaltation. Let us seek that posture of humility so that God in his grace and at his time might exalt us." [01:02:22](Download | Download)

- "I believe he wants to do great wonders here this morning. Some of you the crossover moment is that you need to cross over from the belief of self or circumstance to fully believing in God." [01:05:02](Download | Download)

- "Crossover Faith is preparing oneself spiritually. Believing with all of our heart that God is going to do great wonders among us." [01:05:02](Download | Download)

- "I believe for us personally and corporately in order to experience the spiritual wonders of God, what are the blessings of God in our lives tomorrow? It begins with our spiritual preparation today." [58:28](Download | Download)

- "If he has remembered his Bible, it doesn't matter if he forgot his drawers. You with me? Because he's prepared himself spiritually. He's readied himself spiritually for what God desires to do." [59:38](Download | Download)

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