Embracing God's Abundant Life and Faithfulness

 

Summary

As we gather on this final Sunday of the year, it's a moment to reflect on God's unwavering faithfulness and grace that has brought us to this point. We are reminded that our God is capable of doing exceedingly, abundantly above all we can ask or imagine. This is a time to celebrate His goodness and to consider how we can live a life that glorifies Him in the coming year. As we transition into a new year, it's crucial to reflect on whether we are truly living the abundant life that God has called us to. This abundant life is not about material wealth but about being filled with the Spirit, having internal joy, and living in alignment with God's purpose for us.

In the midst of life's emergencies, we are encouraged to call upon God, our ultimate source of help and refuge. Psalm 91 serves as a reminder that God is our 911, ready to rescue us in times of trouble. We are urged to dwell in His presence continually, allowing His shadow to be our protection. The prominence, promises, protection, provision, and product of God are reasons to trust Him fully. God promises to deliver, exalt, answer, be with us in trouble, honor, and satisfy those who hold fast to Him in love.

As we look forward to 2025, there are numerous opportunities to grow in our faith. Joining a life group, participating in one-to-one discipleship, and attending the New Year's Eve service are ways to deepen our relationship with Christ. We are reminded of the importance of having a personal relationship with God, knowing His character, and trusting in His capability and compassion. In times of chaos and uncertainty, God secures us and provides for us, sending His angels to guard us. Our relationship with God should not be transactional but transformational, rooted in love and devotion.

Key Takeaways:

- Reflect on the Abundant Life: As we end the year, take time to reflect on whether you are living the abundant life God has called you to. This life is characterized by being filled with the Spirit and having internal joy, regardless of external circumstances. Consider what might be hindering you from experiencing this fullness and seek God's guidance for the coming year. [15:34]

- God as Our 911: In life's emergencies, God is our ultimate source of help. Psalm 91 reminds us to call upon God, describe our situation honestly, listen to His Word, and remain steadfast until He comes to our rescue. Trust in His promises and His ability to deliver and protect you. [33:44]

- The Prominence and Promises of God: God's prominence is highlighted through His various names, each revealing His power and authority. His promises assure us of His deliverance and protection. Trust in God's character and His commitment to care for you, knowing that He is greater than any challenge you face. [36:42]

- Dwelling in God's Presence: To experience God's protection and provision, we must dwell in His presence continually. This involves abiding in Him, soaking up His wisdom, and allowing Him to transform us. Make it a priority to spend time with God daily, letting His presence renew and refocus you. [42:00]

- Transformational Relationship with God: Our relationship with God should be transformational, not transactional. It's about deepening our love and devotion to Him, not just seeking blessings. As we grow in our faith, let our time with God be a source of renewal and strength, shaping our desires and perspectives. [01:01:12]

Youtube Chapters:

[00:00] - Welcome
[14:15] - Reflecting on God's Goodness
[15:34] - Understanding the Abundant Life
[16:10] - Joy Beyond Circumstances
[17:32] - Faithful Unto Death
[18:36] - Gratitude for God's Faithfulness
[29:16] - Managing Life's Emergencies
[33:44] - Calling on God in Crisis
[34:43] - Recognizing Life's Emergencies
[36:42] - The Prominence of God
[38:38] - Valuing God's Presence
[42:00] - Dwelling in God's Shelter
[45:50] - God's Promise of Deliverance
[49:46] - God's Protection in Chaos
[54:04] - Secured in the Midst of Chaos
[56:00] - God's Provision and Angels
[58:54] - The Product of God's Love
[01:02:17] - Transformational Relationship with God
[01:05:07] - Fixed and Variable Blessings
[01:09:19] - Knowing God's Character
[01:12:05] - God's Names and Attributes
[01:15:47] - Invitation to Trust God

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- John 10:10
- Psalm 91:1-16

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Observation Questions:

1. According to John 10:10, what does Jesus say about the kind of life He offers to His followers? How does this relate to the concept of the "abundant life" mentioned in the sermon? [15:34]

2. In Psalm 91, what are the different names of God mentioned, and what do they reveal about His character and power? [36:42]

3. How does the sermon describe the role of God as our "911" in times of emergency? What are the steps mentioned for calling upon God in such times? [33:44]

4. What are the promises of God listed in Psalm 91 for those who dwell in His presence? How are these promises reflected in the sermon? [45:50]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the concept of the "abundant life" challenge common perceptions of success and fulfillment? What might be hindering someone from experiencing this life? [16:10]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that our relationship with God should be transformational rather than transactional? How does this impact one's faith journey? [01:01:12]

3. How does the sermon illustrate the importance of dwelling in God's presence continually? What practical steps can be taken to ensure this in daily life? [42:00]

4. What does the sermon imply about the significance of knowing God's character and trusting in His promises during chaotic times? [54:04]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your current life circumstances. Are you living the abundant life that God has called you to? What specific changes can you make in 2025 to align more closely with this calling? [15:34]

2. Think about a recent emergency or crisis you faced. How did you respond, and how might you incorporate the steps mentioned in the sermon to call upon God more effectively in future situations? [33:44]

3. Identify one area of your life where you tend to rely on human solutions rather than seeking God's protection and provision. How can you shift your focus to trust in God's promises? [45:50]

4. Consider your current relationship with God. Is it more transactional or transformational? What specific actions can you take to deepen your love and devotion to Him? [01:01:12]

5. How can you make dwelling in God's presence a daily priority? What practical habits or routines can you establish to ensure you are continually abiding in Him? [42:00]

6. Reflect on the names and attributes of God mentioned in Psalm 91. How can understanding these aspects of God's character strengthen your faith and trust in Him? [36:42]

7. Identify a specific fear or anxiety you are currently facing. How can the promises of Psalm 91 and the sermon help you to overcome this fear and walk in faith? [49:46]

Devotional

Day 1: Reflecting on the Abundant Life
Reflect on whether you are living the abundant life God has called you to. This life is characterized by being filled with the Spirit and having internal joy, regardless of external circumstances. Consider what might be hindering you from experiencing this fullness and seek God's guidance for the coming year. The abundant life is not about material wealth but about aligning with God's purpose and experiencing His joy and peace. As you transition into a new year, take time to evaluate your spiritual journey and identify areas where you can grow closer to God. [15:34]

Ephesians 3:20-21 (ESV): "Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."

Reflection: What is one specific area in your life where you feel you are not experiencing the fullness of God's joy? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to transform this area in the coming year?


Day 2: God as Our 911
In life's emergencies, God is our ultimate source of help. Psalm 91 reminds us to call upon God, describe our situation honestly, listen to His Word, and remain steadfast until He comes to our rescue. Trust in His promises and His ability to deliver and protect you. In times of trouble, God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help. By dwelling in His presence, we find the courage and peace to face any challenge. Remember that God is always near, ready to provide comfort and guidance. [33:44]

Psalm 46:1-3 (ESV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling."

Reflection: Think of a recent challenge or emergency you faced. How did you respond, and how might you have leaned more on God's promises and presence during that time?


Day 3: The Prominence and Promises of God
God's prominence is highlighted through His various names, each revealing His power and authority. His promises assure us of His deliverance and protection. Trust in God's character and His commitment to care for you, knowing that He is greater than any challenge you face. By understanding the depth of God's promises, we can find assurance and hope in His unwavering faithfulness. Let His names and attributes remind you of His greatness and His intimate care for you. [36:42]

Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Reflection: Reflect on a promise of God that has been significant in your life. How does this promise encourage you to trust Him more deeply in your current circumstances?


Day 4: Dwelling in God's Presence
To experience God's protection and provision, we must dwell in His presence continually. This involves abiding in Him, soaking up His wisdom, and allowing Him to transform us. Make it a priority to spend time with God daily, letting His presence renew and refocus you. By dwelling in His presence, we find peace and strength, allowing His wisdom to guide our decisions and actions. Let this be a time of renewal and transformation as you seek to align your life with His will. [42:00]

John 15:4-5 (ESV): "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."

Reflection: What daily habit can you incorporate to ensure you are dwelling in God's presence more consistently? How might this habit transform your relationship with Him?


Day 5: Transformational Relationship with God
Our relationship with God should be transformational, not transactional. It's about deepening our love and devotion to Him, not just seeking blessings. As we grow in our faith, let our time with God be a source of renewal and strength, shaping our desires and perspectives. A transformational relationship with God changes how we see ourselves and the world, leading us to live out His love and grace. Seek to deepen your devotion and let His presence transform every aspect of your life. [01:01:12]

2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV): "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."

Reflection: In what ways has your relationship with God been more transactional than transformational? How can you shift your focus to deepen your love and devotion to Him?

Quotes

"And by his grace, you've experienced what you've experienced. And so, our God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above and beyond all we can ask, think, or imagine. Amen. And so, we can worship him, we can praise him, we can celebrate him because he's worthy. Amen." [00:13:53] (18 seconds)


"But the abundant life means that you are filled with the Spirit. You're doing exactly what God has called you to do. And in spite of your external circumstances, you have internal joy. Amen. When you look around and you see your kids walking with the Lord, you look around, you have joy in your relationships." [00:15:45] (20 seconds)


"God is standing there to rescue you. God is standing there because he's reliable. God is standing there because he cares about you. God is waiting to come and rescue you. But the question becomes, will you call upon God? You know, we have this thing right now. People are giving up on God." [00:35:05] (20 seconds)


"God has revealed his power, his authority. God has made his presence accessible to you. See, guys, many of us underestimate the presence of God. Many of us don't value the presence of God. In other words, boy, in his presence is fullness of joy. Many of us don't value that great exchange that, boy, he will exchange our weakness for his power of God." [00:38:38] (29 seconds)


"Many of us are spending time with God, and, boy, it's almost a waste of time because we don't allow God to transform us. We don't allow God to soften our hearts. We don't allow God to renew us. We don't allow God to transform us. We don't allow God to refocus us and redirect us. When you go to God, you ought to allow God to do work in your life. Amen?" [00:39:39] (20 seconds)


"God wants us to stay connected 24 hours a day, seven days a week. God wants us fully dependent in any and every situation. God wants us to dwell. The question becomes, are you dwelling in him? Are you abiding in him? Are you soaking up his presence? Are you soaking up his wisdom? Are you soaking up his ways?" [00:42:00] (26 seconds)


"God has said he will deliver you. And he will rescue you. This term four in verse three, it gives you a further explanation of what he was saying in verses one and two. For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. How many of you all know that Satan is real?" [00:44:16] (19 seconds)


"God sends his angelic messengers when things get messy in your life. Isn't that good news? The last reason you ought to run to God is because of the product of God. Look at verse 14. Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him. You know, I kind of got confused at this verse because I was kind of reading it too fast, and I slowed down." [00:58:54] (29 seconds)


"God didn't just come to do stuff for you. But God came to have a relationship with you. And we live in an era where, boy, we undervalue quality relationships. Relationships are so transactional now that, boy, they're not transformational. We don't value, you know what, I've got a relationship, I've got a commitment." [01:01:12] (26 seconds)


"Do you know God's ways? Do you know how God moves? Do you know how God functions? We're not talking about putting God in a box. After you've read the Word of God, after you have walked with God, after you have lived with God, after you have experienced God, do you know how God functions? Do you know his character?" [01:09:19] (22 seconds)


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Transcript
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