Embracing a Miracle Mindset: Trusting God's Guidance
Summary
Developing a miracle mindset is about embracing a life where God is at the center of every decision, every emotion, and every spiritual need. As we gather today, we recognize that our church has been a beacon of faith in Memphis for over 65 years, and we are committed to continuing this legacy by deepening our relationship with God. While the excitement of events like the Super Bowl may fade, the transformation that comes from opening our hearts to Jesus is everlasting. There are three groups among us today: those passionate about Jesus, those feeling spiritually dull, and those yet to commit to Christ. Regardless of where you stand, today is an opportunity to reignite your faith and develop a miracle mindset.
A miracle mindset begins with acknowledging that God is our shepherd, as beautifully expressed in Psalm 23. This mindset assures us that God will meet our directional needs, guiding us in paths of righteousness. Like sheep, we may not always know the way, but God, our shepherd, sees the road ahead and leads us with wisdom and love. In times of confusion, we can trust that God will provide clarity and direction.
Moreover, God meets our emotional needs. Even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we need not fear, for God is with us. Life's challenges, whether they be threats, fears, or anxieties, are met with God's comforting presence. A miracle mindset allows us to experience peace, even in the face of adversity.
Finally, God addresses our spiritual needs by restoring our souls. When life breaks us down, God is the one who repairs and revives our spirits. He promises to restore the crushed spirit and revive the courage of those who are humble and contrite. This restoration is a testament to God's faithfulness and His ability to meet every need we have.
As we conclude, let us embrace the miracle mindset, trusting that God will lead, comfort, and restore us. Whether you need direction, emotional support, or spiritual renewal, God is ready to meet you where you are. Let us come together in prayer, seeking His guidance and strength.
Key Takeaways:
1. Embrace a Miracle Mindset: A miracle mindset is about living with the constant awareness that God is our shepherd, guiding us in every aspect of life. It requires us to trust in His sufficiency and acknowledge our own insufficiency. By doing so, we open ourselves to His miraculous work in our lives. [39:43]
2. God Meets Our Directional Needs: Just as a shepherd leads sheep, God guides us in paths of righteousness. In times of confusion, we can trust that He sees the road ahead and will provide the clarity we need. This trust in His guidance is a cornerstone of the miracle mindset. [46:16]
3. God Addresses Our Emotional Needs: Even in the darkest valleys, we need not fear, for God is with us. His presence provides comfort and peace, allowing us to face life's challenges with confidence. A miracle mindset helps us experience God's peace, even amidst adversity. [53:49]
4. God Restores Our Souls: When life breaks us down, God is the one who repairs and revives our spirits. He promises to restore the crushed spirit and revive the courage of those who are humble and contrite. This restoration is a testament to God's faithfulness and His ability to meet every need we have. [01:02:22]
5. Trust in God's Faithfulness: The miracle mindset is rooted in the belief that God will meet our every need. Whether we require direction, emotional support, or spiritual renewal, God is ready to meet us where we are. By trusting in His faithfulness, we can experience His miraculous work in our lives. [01:05:08]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:30] - Appreciation for the Congregation
- [01:15] - Super Bowl Sunday Reflections
- [02:45] - The Lasting Impact of Faith
- [03:30] - Three Groups in the Church
- [05:00] - Developing a Miracle Mindset
- [06:30] - The Devil's Strategy
- [08:00] - Psalm 23: A Miracle Mindset
- [09:30] - Directional Needs: God Leads Us
- [11:00] - Emotional Needs: God Comforts Us
- [12:30] - Spiritual Needs: God Restores Us
- [14:00] - Personal Testimonies of God's Faithfulness
- [15:30] - Invitation to Prayer and Worship
- [16:45] - Closing Encouragement and Blessing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Developing a Miracle Mindset
Bible Reading:
- Psalm 23:1-6
- Psalm 25:4-5
- Isaiah 57:15
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Observation Questions:
1. According to Psalm 23, what are the roles and responsibilities of a shepherd, and how does this relate to God's role in our lives? [43:49]
2. In the sermon, the pastor mentioned three groups of people in the church. What are these groups, and how does the sermon suggest they can develop a miracle mindset? [39:43]
3. How does the pastor describe the devil's strategy to hinder spiritual growth, and what is the suggested counteraction? [41:59]
4. What personal story did the pastor share to illustrate God's ability to meet our emotional needs, and what was the outcome? [58:36]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the imagery of God as a shepherd in Psalm 23 help believers understand the concept of a miracle mindset? [43:49]
2. What does it mean to have a "miracle mindset" in the context of facing life's challenges, as described in the sermon? [53:49]
3. How does the pastor's story of his heart attack illustrate the peace that comes from trusting God in the valley of the shadow of death? [58:36]
4. In what ways does the sermon suggest that God restores our souls, and how is this restoration linked to having a repentant heart? [01:05:08]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your current spiritual state. Which of the three groups mentioned in the sermon do you identify with, and what steps can you take to develop a miracle mindset? [39:43]
2. Consider a time when you felt lost or confused. How can you apply the lesson from Psalm 25:4-5 to seek God's guidance in your current situation? [47:29]
3. The pastor shared a story about facing threats and fears. How can you cultivate a miracle mindset to experience God's peace in your own moments of fear or anxiety? [55:15]
4. Identify an area in your life where you need emotional healing. How can you invite God to meet this need, as described in the sermon? [53:49]
5. Think about a recent situation where you felt spiritually drained. How can you apply the promise of restoration from Isaiah 57:15 to find renewal in your faith journey? [01:03:52]
6. The sermon emphasized the importance of not confining God to a "Sunday box." What practical steps can you take to integrate your faith into your daily life throughout the week? [41:59]
7. How can you support someone in your life who is struggling to develop a miracle mindset? What specific actions can you take to encourage them in their faith journey? [01:06:41]
Devotional
Day 1: Embrace God's Guiding Presence
Developing a miracle mindset involves recognizing God as our shepherd, guiding us through every aspect of life. This mindset requires us to trust in His sufficiency and acknowledge our own limitations. By doing so, we open ourselves to His miraculous work in our lives. When we embrace this mindset, we allow God to lead us in paths of righteousness, providing clarity and direction even in times of confusion. Trusting in His guidance becomes a cornerstone of our faith journey, enabling us to navigate life's uncertainties with confidence. [39:43]
Isaiah 30:21 (ESV): "And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, 'This is the way, walk in it,' when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to trust God's guidance more fully today? How can you actively seek His direction in this area?
Day 2: Trust in God's Directional Provision
Just as a shepherd leads sheep, God guides us in paths of righteousness. In times of confusion, we can trust that He sees the road ahead and will provide the clarity we need. This trust in His guidance is a cornerstone of the miracle mindset. By acknowledging that we may not always know the way, we open ourselves to His wisdom and love, allowing Him to lead us with confidence. This mindset assures us that God will meet our directional needs, guiding us with His divine insight and understanding. [46:16]
Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
Reflection: What decision or situation are you currently facing that requires God's guidance? How can you surrender your own understanding and trust in His direction today?
Day 3: Experience God's Comfort in Adversity
Even in the darkest valleys, we need not fear, for God is with us. His presence provides comfort and peace, allowing us to face life's challenges with confidence. A miracle mindset helps us experience God's peace, even amidst adversity. By trusting in His comforting presence, we can navigate life's trials with assurance, knowing that He is with us every step of the way. This mindset allows us to find solace in His unwavering support, enabling us to overcome fear and anxiety with His peace. [53:49]
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (ESV): "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God."
Reflection: How can you invite God's comforting presence into a current challenge or fear you are facing? What steps can you take to rest in His peace today?
Day 4: Allow God to Restore Your Soul
When life breaks us down, God is the one who repairs and revives our spirits. He promises to restore the crushed spirit and revive the courage of those who are humble and contrite. This restoration is a testament to God's faithfulness and His ability to meet every need we have. By embracing a miracle mindset, we open ourselves to His restorative power, allowing Him to heal and renew our souls. This mindset encourages us to seek His restoration, trusting in His ability to bring wholeness and renewal to our lives. [01:02:22]
Psalm 51:10-12 (ESV): "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need God's restoration and renewal? How can you invite Him to heal and revive your spirit today?
Day 5: Trust in God's Faithfulness
The miracle mindset is rooted in the belief that God will meet our every need. Whether we require direction, emotional support, or spiritual renewal, God is ready to meet us where we are. By trusting in His faithfulness, we can experience His miraculous work in our lives. This mindset encourages us to rely on His promises, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill them. As we trust in His faithfulness, we open ourselves to His transformative power, allowing Him to work miracles in our lives and meet our deepest needs. [01:05:08]
Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV): "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
Reflection: How can you actively trust in God's faithfulness in a specific area of your life today? What steps can you take to rely on His promises and experience His miraculous work?
Quotes
First group of people that are here, you're passionate about Jesus. You're growing in him. You're on fire for him. You look at your life and say, man, Lord, I just can't wait to live this day walking under your guidance. I love you. Second group of people that are here, you're just spiritually a little bit dull. You look back and you look back in your life and you say, you know, I was a stronger Christian some time ago than I am today. I want to say I'm glad you're here and I love you as well. [00:39:43]
And then there's a third group of people that are here. You've not yet committed your life to Jesus Christ. Let me tell you something. Jesus Christ is an equal opportunity savior. He'll save anybody. And I'm glad you're here today and I love all of you. That have not yet given your life to Christ. Today can be the day that you commit your life to Jesus Christ. [00:40:43]
If I were the devil, what I would do to try to stop people in their spiritual growth, I wouldn't try to convince people that God doesn't exist. I wouldn't try to do that. Hardwired into us, there is a God. You've got to teach a child not to believe in God. So I wouldn't try to convince somebody, oh, God doesn't exist. But here's what I would do. [00:40:55]
I would try to convince somebody, you know what? Go to church on Sunday. God does exist. Go to church on Sunday. Believe in God. Just don't overdo it. Go to church on Sunday. Sing. Enjoy your life group. High-five your friends and pray with them. Listen to the pastor's message. Enjoy it all. But keep everything that you do spiritually, can keep it all in the Sunday morning box. [00:41:32]
Confine it to simply Sunday morning. And then Monday through Saturday, just live and handle life on your own. After all, if I were the devil, I'd convince you, you're smart. You're really, really smart. You've got experience. You don't need God day by day. You've got friends. You know people. You've got influence. Use those things. And the other six days of the week, yeah, put God in that Sunday box. [00:42:10]
Do you every day view God, Lord, I need you. You are totally sufficient. I am insufficient by myself every single day of the year. Lord, I need you. Or on the other hand, are you battling through life on your own? Are you battling through life on your own? Are you battling through life on your own? Today, I want to focus on one of the greatest verses in all the Bible. [00:43:47]
Nine words make up a miracle mindset. The Lord is my shepherd. He's a miracle working God. And therefore, I shall not be in want because I'm going to trust God to supply everything that I need in every area, in every dimension of my life. Those nine words, the Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. They depict and describe the miracle mindset I'm going to talk about today. [00:44:57]
What areas will God help us with the miracle mindset? What areas? I see three as I think of this Psalm and break it down. Three areas. First of all, when you develop a miracle mindset, he will meet your directional needs. Your directional needs. It says, God leads me in paths of righteousness. God leads me in paths of righteousness. God leads me. God leads me. God leads me. [00:45:27]
The miracle mindset admits it up front and center. God, I'm one of your sheep. And God, I'm not that smart. And God, I really need you to lead me. And so, Lord, would you lead me in paths of righteousness? Because I don't know which way to go. And the miracle mindset says, God, would you meet my directional needs? Every day, I need you. Psalm 25 is a perfect example. [00:46:35]
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I'll fear no evil. You're with me. Man, you talk about emotional needs. Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death. Now, David didn't write Psalm 23 when he was a younger man. David wrote Psalm 23 in the last quarter of his life, in the last, when he was an older man. And he looked back on his life and he says, let me tell you about my God. [00:53:49]
And I knew that even though I may be walking through the valley of the shadow of death, I don't need to have emotional fear. I've got a miracle mindset. I've got a miracle mindset. God is with me every moment. Hey, life in Memphis, any worry living in Memphis? Any fear? Any confusion? Any times of grief? Any gangs? Any robberies? Any home break-ins? Anybody carry guns? [00:54:56]
The high and lofty one who lives in eternity. That's God. The holy one. Here's what he says to people. That souls are broken. Fear and lockdown is taking place. I live in the high and holy place with those whose spirits are contrite and humble. The word contrite means repentant, needy, realizing what they need. Those that are contrite and humble. Look it. I will restore the crushed spirit of the humble and revive the courage. [01:04:22]
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