Embracing Freedom and Intimacy in God's Grace
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to immerse ourselves in the presence of the Holy Spirit, seeking to surrender all our burdens and distractions to God. We were reminded of the grace and mercy that Jesus brought through the new covenant, a revolution that sets us free from the need for material possessions and old ways. This freedom transforms us, renewing our minds and making us new creations in Christ. We were encouraged to enter into the "secret place" with God, a place of intimacy where we allow Him to see into us and transform us from within.
We explored Genesis 45:10-11, where God calls us to dwell in the land of Goshen, a place of nearness, comfort, and plenty. This is a metaphor for drawing near to God, finding our refuge and provision in Him. We prayed Psalm 91 over our lives, declaring God's protection and deliverance from all forms of evil and harm. This prayer reinforced our trust in God as our refuge and fortress.
We discussed the importance of truth, as Jesus preached it, and how knowing the truth sets us free. This freedom is not about adhering to the law but embracing the grace that Jesus offers. We were reminded that mixing law and grace is futile; we are under grace alone. This grace is personified in Jesus Christ, who pours out His grace upon us, setting us free from sin and bondage.
We were encouraged to forgive others, understanding that forgiveness is not a process but a decision we make, trusting God to handle the rest. Isaiah 54:17 assured us that no weapon formed against us will prosper, and we are to stand firm in this promise despite life's challenges. We were called to surrender all our struggles, health issues, financial needs, and relationships to God, trusting Him completely.
### Key Takeaways
1. Entering the Secret Place: Intimacy with God requires us to let Him into the deepest parts of our lives. This "secret place" is where we draw near to Him, allowing Him to transform us from within. It's a place of vulnerability and openness, where we find true comfort and provision. [57:05]
2. Freedom Through Grace: True freedom comes from embracing the grace of Jesus Christ, not from adhering to the law. The law only highlights our shortcomings, but grace sets us free and transforms us. This grace is a gift that we must fully accept and live by. [01:09:58]
3. The Power of Truth: Knowing and embracing the truth of God's word sets us free. This truth is not just intellectual knowledge but a transformative power that changes our lives. We must cling to this truth, allowing it to renew our minds and set us free from all forms of bondage. [01:07:25]
4. Forgiveness as a Decision: Forgiveness is not a lengthy process but a decision we make to release others from their wrongs against us. This act of forgiveness frees us and allows God to work in our hearts and lives. It's a step of faith that brings healing and restoration. [01:21:51]
5. Standing on God's Promises: Despite life's challenges, we must stand firm on God's promises. Isaiah 54:17 assures us that no weapon formed against us will prosper. This promise gives us the strength to face any situation, knowing that God is our protector and provider. [01:24:28]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[49:39] - Entering the Mind of Christ
[52:20] - Embracing Freedom in Christ
[55:44] - The Secret Place of Intimacy
[57:05] - God's Call to Draw Near
[01:00:53] - The Land of Goshen
[01:02:43] - Praying Psalm 91
[01:06:25] - The Power of Truth
[01:09:58] - Freedom Through Grace
[01:15:26] - Mixing Law and Grace
[01:17:22] - God's Consistent Grace
[01:19:32] - Righteousness Through Jesus
[01:21:51] - The Act of Forgiveness
[01:24:28] - Standing on God's Promises
[01:27:01] - Surrendering to God
[01:32:00] - Closing Worship and Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Genesis 45:10-11
2. Psalm 91
3. Isaiah 54:17
#### Observation Questions
1. In Genesis 45:10-11, what does the land of Goshen represent, and why is it significant for Joseph's family? [57:05]
2. According to Psalm 91, what are some of the promises of protection and deliverance that God offers to those who dwell in His shelter? [01:02:43]
3. How does Isaiah 54:17 assure believers about the outcome of weapons formed against them? [01:24:28]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the relationship between law and grace? [01:09:58]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean to enter the "secret place" with God, and how does this concept relate to intimacy with Him? [57:05]
2. How does the sermon describe the transformation that comes from embracing the grace of Jesus Christ? [01:09:58]
3. Why is forgiveness described as a decision rather than a process, and what impact does this have on our spiritual lives? [01:21:51]
4. How can believers stand firm on God's promises, especially in the face of life's challenges, as described in Isaiah 54:17? [01:24:28]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your personal "secret place" with God. How can you create more time and space for intimacy with Him in your daily life? [57:05]
2. In what areas of your life do you need to fully embrace the grace of Jesus Christ instead of trying to adhere to the law? How can you make this shift? [01:09:58]
3. Think of a situation where you need to forgive someone. How can you make the decision to forgive today, trusting God to handle the rest? [01:21:51]
4. What specific promises from Psalm 91 can you declare over your life and your family's life this week? How can you incorporate this prayer into your daily routine? [01:02:43]
5. Identify a challenge you are currently facing. How can you stand firm on the promise of Isaiah 54:17, believing that no weapon formed against you will prosper? [01:24:28]
6. How can you actively surrender your struggles, health issues, financial needs, and relationships to God, trusting Him completely? What steps will you take this week to do so? [01:27:01]
7. Reflect on the truth of God's word that sets us free. How can you allow this truth to renew your mind and set you free from any form of bondage you are experiencing? [01:07:25]
Devotional
Day 1: Entering the Secret Place
Intimacy with God requires us to let Him into the deepest parts of our lives. This "secret place" is where we draw near to Him, allowing Him to transform us from within. It's a place of vulnerability and openness, where we find true comfort and provision. In this sacred space, we surrender our burdens and distractions, seeking to be renewed and made whole by His presence. This intimate connection with God is essential for our spiritual growth and transformation.
In the secret place, we experience God's nearness and His desire to be close to us. It is a place where we can be completely honest and transparent, allowing God to see into the depths of our hearts. As we spend time in this intimate communion, we are transformed by His love and grace, becoming new creations in Christ. This transformation is not just a one-time event but a continuous process of renewal and growth. [57:05]
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 create a "secret place" in your daily routine where you can meet with God and allow Him to transform you from within?
Day 2: Freedom Through Grace
True freedom comes from embracing the grace of Jesus Christ, not from adhering to the law. The law only highlights our shortcomings, but grace sets us free and transforms us. This grace is a gift that we must fully accept and live by. When we embrace grace, we are no longer bound by the need to earn God's favor through our actions. Instead, we rest in the finished work of Christ, knowing that His grace is sufficient for us.
Living under grace means recognizing that our identity and worth are found in Christ alone. It frees us from the pressure to perform and allows us to live in the freedom that Jesus offers. This freedom is not a license to sin but an invitation to live a life that reflects the love and grace we have received. As we embrace grace, we are empowered to live out our faith with joy and confidence, knowing that we are deeply loved and accepted by God. [01:09:58]
Galatians 5:1 (ESV): "For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery."
Reflection: In what areas of your life are you still trying to earn God's favor? How can you embrace the freedom that comes from living under His grace today?
Day 3: The Power of Truth
Knowing and embracing the truth of God's word sets us free. This truth is not just intellectual knowledge but a transformative power that changes our lives. We must cling to this truth, allowing it to renew our minds and set us free from all forms of bondage. The truth of God's word reveals who we are in Christ and the promises He has for us. It exposes the lies we have believed and replaces them with the truth that brings freedom and healing.
As we immerse ourselves in God's truth, we are equipped to stand firm against the enemy's attacks and the challenges of life. The truth empowers us to live victoriously, knowing that we are more than conquerors through Christ. It is essential to meditate on God's word daily, allowing it to shape our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. By doing so, we experience the transformative power of truth in every area of our lives. [01:07:25]
John 8:32 (ESV): "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Reflection: What lies have you believed about yourself or your circumstances? How can you replace those lies with the truth of God's word today?
Day 4: Forgiveness as a Decision
Forgiveness is not a lengthy process but a decision we make to release others from their wrongs against us. This act of forgiveness frees us and allows God to work in our hearts and lives. It's a step of faith that brings healing and restoration. When we choose to forgive, we are not condoning the wrong done to us but entrusting the situation to God, who is the ultimate judge. Forgiveness is an act of obedience that aligns our hearts with God's heart.
Forgiveness is essential for our spiritual well-being and growth. Holding onto unforgiveness hinders our relationship with God and others. It creates a barrier that prevents us from experiencing the fullness of God's love and grace. By choosing to forgive, we release ourselves from the bondage of bitterness and resentment, allowing God's healing power to flow through us. Forgiveness is a powerful act that brings freedom and restoration to our lives. [01:21:51]
Colossians 3:13 (ESV): "Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive."
Reflection: Is there someone you need to forgive today? Ask God to help you make the decision to forgive and trust Him to handle the rest.
Day 5: Standing on God's Promises
Despite life's challenges, we must stand firm on God's promises. Isaiah 54:17 assures us that no weapon formed against us will prosper. This promise gives us the strength to face any situation, knowing that God is our protector and provider. Standing on God's promises means trusting in His faithfulness and believing that He will fulfill His word in our lives. It requires us to hold onto His promises even when circumstances seem contrary.
God's promises are a source of hope and encouragement in times of difficulty. They remind us of His unchanging nature and His commitment to us. As we meditate on His promises, our faith is strengthened, and we are empowered to persevere through trials. Standing on God's promises is an act of faith that declares our trust in His sovereignty and goodness. It is a declaration that we believe in His power to bring about His purposes in our lives. [01:24:28]
2 Corinthians 1:20 (ESV): "For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory."
Reflection: What promise of God do you need to stand on today? How can you remind yourself of this promise and trust in His faithfulness?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Jesus gave us grace, that new covenant, how many of you are getting it? many of you are grabbing hold? Full of grace and mercy. Listen, he brought a revolution. many of you know what a revolution is? It's like when the people feel free, they just take over. many of you know we have to take over for the kingdom? But we have to be free. How many of you are feeling free, freer, free this morning?" (83 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "How many of you are feeling freer, freer, freer? You don't care. You don't care about stuff. You don't have to get more stuff. You don't have to have more stuff. You give it all to him. You don't hold back. When you're freer, you don't just give up old ways. You eliminate. You don't want God to make you a dervished version. You are transformed. don't even know the Susie, the Joe that I knew. You are changed. How many of you are changed? You don't even know why or where or when." (92 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "How many of you are believing God this morning? What we just prayed? Man, I am. You don't have anything else. Jesus is everything. Well, I got a good job, Dr. Sherrill. My family's happy. I'm good. My wife loves me. My husband loves me. My kids love me. Man, I got it going on. You ain't got nothing if you ain't got Jesus." (40 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "See, if we will believe right, then it just comes natural. We'll live right. If we're believing right, if we refuse condemnation, guilt, shame, yuck, then we'll live right. And that's because of grace. That's because of the grace that's been poured out. That's why you can't mix a little bit of law and a little bit of grace." (31 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You can't mix a little bit of law into grace. It don't work that way. We're under grace. Kill that law thing. You can't mix it. This is what Paul said about that in Galatians. If you can go to Galatians, chapter 3, and look with me at verse 2 and 3. Let me ask you this. Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or hearing faith? Are you so foolish having begun by the Spirit and now you're being perfected by the flesh?" (59 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "One of the things that we find about the secret place is that we got to have intimacy with God. How many of you really don't like intimacy? I'm not talking about that stuff. I'm talking about you don't like when people get too in. Hello? Some of you know what I'm talking about. You can be all happy and you're all this out here, but when people start getting close and now they're just, are you okay? Why are you asking me that? Are you getting what I'm saying? Intimacy. God does that to us. He says, I want in. And I'm sure you've heard this. Intimacy. Into me-cy. See, we like to do a lot of into you I see. Are you with me? We like to point a finger this way and go, I see. And you need. And you should." (82 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "How many of you know everything Jesus said was truth? Truth. How many of you cling to truth today? Yeah. Yeah, we got to have truth. Because there's so much junk out there being infiltrated into the church. he preached the truth. And just like back then, guess what? Today, it's really not different. You still struggle with fear and past hurts and past wounds and addictions and struggling with bad habits. And you struggle with your mind being bombarded. Nothing has changed. And yet his word is true." (57 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "How many of you hate bills that just never go away? Jesus paid it off. He paid it off. There's no freedom in the law. Stop trying to live the law. Stop trying to measure up. Stop trying to earn this. And, well, if I do this, God's going to love me more. No, he already loves you more. He loves us. We're in our junk. he's such a good He's so full of mercy. He's so full of grace. You can't lose." (64 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And the truth is his grace. That's the truth. And the best part is grace is a person. Grace is Jesus Christ. That's the beauty of it. When you enter in, you just get bucket loads of grace poured on you. Because he's making us. He sets us free. He sets you free of the addictions. He sets you free of the sin. He sets you free of the bondages. You just got to enter in. say, okay, Jesus. I need your grace. I need it all right now." (52 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We are right. We are righteous because of Jesus. People, somebody said to me the other day, I was out taking a walk and someone said to me, how do you, how do you know you're okay and all that? I said, because God said so. And they just looked at me. And this person said to me, she said, do you believe everything God says? Absolutely. Can you be silly enough to do that? Because it goes against all your common sense, all that you've been taught, all your theology. It goes against all that. I'm only righteous because of Jesus. And when you grab a hold of that, you get breakthrough." (62 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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