Embracing God's Presence Amidst Uncertainty and Service
Summary
In today's gathering, we focused on the profound truth of God's unwavering presence and His promises to us, even amidst the tumultuous and uncertain times we are living in. We began by acknowledging the power of God's presence, which is accessible to us because of the torn veil, symbolizing our direct access to Him. This access is not just for collective worship but is available to us daily, encouraging us to acknowledge, trust, and lean on God every day.
We also discussed the importance of generosity and community service, highlighting our church's partnership with Hope for Kids, a ministry supporting families involved in fostering and adoption. This partnership is a practical expression of our core value of generosity, as we prepare Thanksgiving packages and plan for Christmas toy collections. Our commitment to serving the community extends beyond financial support, as we also seek volunteers to deliver these packages and pray for the families.
In the midst of these activities, we are reminded of the tumultuous times we live in, as described in 2 Timothy 3. Despite the chaos, we are assured that God remains on the throne, and His promises to never leave or forsake us stand firm. We explored Jeremiah 29, where God reassures His people of His plans for their future, even while they were in captivity. This message is a reminder that God still thinks about us and has a plan for us, offering hope and a future.
In these uncertain times, we are called to action: to pray and seek God with our whole heart, to build His kingdom, and to multiply by making disciples. We are encouraged to seek peace and pray for our leaders, regardless of political affiliations, trusting that God is in control. As we navigate these times, let us focus on building, multiplying, and seeking God wholeheartedly, knowing that His plans for us are good.
Key Takeaways:
- God's presence is transformative and accessible to us daily. The tearing of the veil signifies our direct access to Him, encouraging us to acknowledge, trust, and lean on Him every day. This daily encounter with God is essential for our spiritual growth and strength. [49:12]
- Generosity and community service are vital expressions of our faith. By partnering with ministries like Hope for Kids, we live out our core values, supporting families in need and demonstrating God's love through practical acts of kindness. [51:35]
- Despite living in tumultuous times, God's sovereignty remains unchanged. He is on the throne, and His promises to never leave or forsake us provide hope and assurance. Our focus should be on His faithfulness rather than the uncertainties around us. [01:06:16]
- We are called to build God's kingdom and multiply by making disciples. This involves actively sharing our faith and serving others, recognizing that even small acts of kindness can have a significant impact on someone's journey to Christ. [01:23:45]
- Seeking peace and praying for our leaders is crucial in these times. By praying for those in authority, we align with God's desire for all to be saved and contribute to a peaceful society. Our prayers should be for their encounter with God and guidance in their leadership roles. [01:29:10]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[39:08] - Focus on God's Presence
[47:20] - Access to God's Presence
[48:09] - God's Transformative Power
[49:12] - Daily Encounter with God
[50:05] - Church Vision and Generosity
[51:35] - Partnership with Hope for Kids
[57:39] - Importance of Supporting Families
[01:01:22] - Living in Tumultuous Times
[01:03:31] - God's Sovereignty and Promises
[01:06:16] - Assurance in Uncertain Times
[01:09:59] - God's Plan for His People
[01:12:34] - Hope in Captivity
[01:16:55] - Call to Prayer and Action
[01:19:06] - Seeking God Wholeheartedly
[01:21:14] - Building and Multiplying
[01:23:45] - Making Disciples
[01:29:10] - Seeking Peace and Praying for Leaders
[01:31:26] - Closing Prayer and Worship
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- Jeremiah 29:11-14
- 2 Timothy 3:1-5
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Observation Questions:
1. What does Jeremiah 29:11 reveal about God's thoughts and plans for His people? How does this relate to the context of the Israelites' captivity? [01:09:59]
2. In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, what are some of the characteristics of the "perilous times" described by Paul? How do these characteristics compare to the current times we are living in? [01:03:31]
3. How does the sermon describe the significance of the torn veil in relation to our access to God's presence? [49:12]
4. What are some practical ways mentioned in the sermon that the church is expressing generosity and community service? [51:35]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How might the promise in Jeremiah 29:11 provide hope and assurance to believers during uncertain times? What does it mean for God to have a plan for us? [01:09:59]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that God's presence is transformative and accessible daily? How can this daily encounter with God impact our spiritual growth? [49:12]
3. How does the sermon encourage believers to respond to the tumultuous times described in 2 Timothy 3? What actions are we called to take? [01:06:16]
4. What role does prayer play in seeking peace and praying for our leaders, according to the sermon? How can this align with God's desire for all to be saved? [01:29:10]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you felt God's presence in your daily life. How did it transform your situation or perspective? How can you seek His presence more intentionally this week? [49:12]
2. The sermon highlights the importance of generosity and community service. What is one practical way you can contribute to your community or church this month? [51:35]
3. In light of the current tumultuous times, how can you focus on God's sovereignty and promises rather than the uncertainties around you? What specific steps can you take to trust in His faithfulness? [01:06:16]
4. How can you actively participate in building God's kingdom and making disciples in your daily life? Identify one person you can share your faith with this week. [01:23:45]
5. Consider your attitude towards political leaders and authorities. How can you pray for them sincerely, regardless of your personal views? What specific prayers can you offer for their guidance and encounter with God? [01:29:10]
6. The sermon calls us to seek God with our whole heart. What areas of your life have you not fully surrendered to Him? How can you begin to submit those areas to God this week? [01:20:28]
7. Think about a situation where you can be a peacemaker. How can you approach it with a mindset of seeking peace, even if it means setting aside your desire to be right? [01:28:22]
Devotional
Day 1: Direct Access to God's Transformative Presence
God's presence is not confined to a place or time; it is accessible to us every day, offering transformation and strength. The tearing of the veil symbolizes this profound truth, inviting us to engage with God personally and consistently. This daily encounter is essential for our spiritual growth, encouraging us to lean on Him amidst life's challenges. By acknowledging His presence, we find the courage and wisdom to navigate our daily lives, knowing that we are never alone. [49:12]
"For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: 'I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.'" (Isaiah 57:15, ESV)
Reflection: How can you intentionally create space in your daily routine to acknowledge and experience God's presence more deeply?
Day 2: Generosity as a Reflection of Faith
Generosity is a tangible expression of our faith, reflecting God's love through our actions. By partnering with ministries like Hope for Kids, we live out our core values, supporting families in need and demonstrating kindness. This commitment extends beyond financial contributions, as we are called to serve with our time and prayers, embodying the love of Christ in practical ways. Our acts of generosity not only bless others but also enrich our spiritual journey, aligning us with God's heart for the world. [51:35]
"Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." (Hebrews 13:16, ESV)
Reflection: Consider a specific way you can extend generosity to someone in need this week. How can you involve your family or friends in this act of kindness?
Day 3: Assurance in God's Sovereignty
In tumultuous times, it is easy to be overwhelmed by uncertainty and fear. Yet, God's sovereignty remains unchanged, and His promises to never leave or forsake us provide hope and assurance. By focusing on His faithfulness, we can find peace amidst chaos, trusting that He is in control. This perspective shifts our focus from the uncertainties around us to the steadfastness of God's character, encouraging us to rest in His promises and find strength in His presence. [01:06:16]
"The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him." (Nahum 1:7, ESV)
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you struggle to trust God's sovereignty? How can you remind yourself of His faithfulness in this area today?
Day 4: Building and Multiplying God's Kingdom
We are called to actively participate in building God's kingdom by making disciples and serving others. This involves sharing our faith and recognizing that even small acts of kindness can significantly impact someone's journey to Christ. By living out our faith authentically, we contribute to the multiplication of God's kingdom, inviting others to experience His love and grace. Our actions, rooted in love and service, become a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel. [01:23:45]
"And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also." (2 Timothy 2:2, ESV)
Reflection: Identify one person in your life who you can encourage in their faith journey. What practical step can you take this week to support and disciple them?
Day 5: Praying for Peace and Leadership
In these times, seeking peace and praying for our leaders is crucial. By lifting those in authority in prayer, we align with God's desire for all to be saved and contribute to a peaceful society. Our prayers should focus on their encounter with God and guidance in their leadership roles, trusting that He can work through them for the good of all. This practice not only impacts our leaders but also transforms our hearts, fostering a spirit of peace and unity within our communities. [01:29:10]
"First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way." (1 Timothy 2:1-2, ESV)
Reflection: Choose a leader in your community or nation to pray for this week. How can you commit to regularly lifting them in prayer, asking for God's wisdom and guidance in their decisions?
Quotes
1. "And one of the amazing things about our God is that he is willing and able to encounter his people whenever we choose to encounter him. And the Bible recounts that when Jesus died on the cross, the veil was torn in two. From top down. And the veil is what separated people from the presence of God in the temple. And God breaking that veil, tearing that veil, signaled to us direct access to him." [00:48:34] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "You walked in today ready to give up all hope, ready to quit, ready to surrender, but be encouraged and reminded God's not done with you. Continue to believe, continue to trust, acknowledge, and lean on him, and he will see you through. My name is David. I'm the lead pastor here at our church, and it's an honor to be able to lead this local body." [00:50:05] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And so, this ministry helps those families that are fostering and also that have adopted. And so, now for Thanksgiving, they prepare packages to take to these families. And so, we're going to partner with them in a few different ways. Here's number one, number one is we're asking you guys to start bringing in some items that we can place in the boxes. So, for example, canned vegetables, you know, packages of potatoes, like, you know, like, you know, instant potato thingies, cranberry sauce, gravy, all those different things that go into a traditional Thanksgiving basket." [00:54:32] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And this ministry, we're going to start with our men. And then as we build it, we're going to add ladies into it as well. Okay. But what do we want to do? We want to get our men involved and start making a list of all the different things that we have skill sets of things that we do. And what do I, why are we doing this? We want to start providing for these families because they do that, but for others within our church or outside that are, let's say, for example, a widowed individual who needs some help to get the grass cut, who needs an oil change in their car, who needs somebody to come in and change the air filter." [01:00:26] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And what we just encountered in his presence, there's power when we collectively worship, but God wants to encounter us every day. It's part of our vision or why we say it this way, and you can help me finish it off. Come on, we exist to get people to a place where they will acknowledge, trust, and lean on God daily. Acknowledge, trust, and lean on God daily. We need of him every single day." [00:49:57] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "And the reality is this, we are living right now in very tumultuous times, uncertain times. What does tumultuous mean? Some of you perhaps haven't heard that before, but tumultuous means he's confused. It means disorderly. Some of the synonyms, if you look up the word tumultuous are this stormy, turbulent, and we are living in this world. We are living in this world. We are living in times of turbulence in this country and across the globe." [01:03:18] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Regardless of who sits in the White House. God still sits on the throne, regardless of who sits in the White House, God still sits on the throne. We can expand that regardless of who sits in the governor's office of our state or the state you're watching from God sits on the throne, regardless who sits in the mayor's office, God still sits on the throne. Can I tell you this? Regardless of of who wins whatever election or seat on Tuesday, God will still remain on the throne." [01:05:08] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "God's plan for his people are still for good. God's plan for his people are still for a hope and are still for a they're still for a future and they're still for hope what does the enemy want us to do to think that it's over to think that we have nothing to live for to think that we've lost it all after first service i was actually talking to one of our young adults or or men better said i'm just old we were standing in the hallway and we were talking he says you know pastor i'm reading this book right now that was written by a man who was in the concentration camps and he said that while he was there in the concentration camp talking or living he kept thinking and and and believing that there was going to be a day when he would get out that he would be reunited with his wife that he would have and that hope and that belief kept him going and that all of those with him in the concentration camp that gave up hope that gave up the thought of what could come next those were the first ones that would die and church there's many of us that we've allowed the situations we're in to make us lose hope to make us think that we're not worth it to make us think that there's no way out but god still has a plan and his plan is still for good he still has a plan and it's still for a future and it's still for a hope in the midst of these certain times in the midst of tumultuous times in the midst of turbulence in the midst of chaos and this sounds good and it sounds raw raw and i can rally behind it but let me remind you something israel received that promise while they were in captivity but they didn't get their freedom when they read the letter what does that mean" [01:13:14] (117 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "We may remain in some uncertain times but because god is still on the throne i can have peace and hope and a future because god is still on the throne i can be encouraged to continue to believe because my eyes are not on man because my eyes are not on a party because our minds eyes are not on a lawmaker i am able to be at peace knowing that god's on the throne and if god's on the throne everything else will be okay church god's plan for his people are still for good god's plan for his people are still for a future and they're still for a hope so i asked you this question this morning what are we to do in these tumultuous times what are we to do in these tumultuous times well if we read what jeremiah wrote in chapter 29 verse number 12 the first thing he said was then you will call upon me and go and pray to me that you will call on me when you are not in sin and go and be ready for service and convey you with your love and surrender and bring good health to those who trust in god in order to live fasten the undorned spirit that you say to god the undorned church st indeed are the מ� danke regent i say those who creed in government law but if the lavishly have been lazy as i say by yourself being touched by the marriage of the law your me and I will listen to you. So church, number one, what are we to do in these tumultuous times? We must call on God and we must pray to God. We must call on God and we must pray to God. We must call on and pray to God." [01:15:32] (78 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "And so church, we can agree, worship team, as you come to the altar, we're living in tumultuous times. We're living in turbulent times. We're living in uncertain times. God still thinks about his children. God still thinks about his people. God still has a plan, a purpose, a future, and a hope for his people. In these uncertain times, church, we got to build. We've got to multiply. And in these uncertain times, we need to seek God wholeheartedly, and we've got to pray. So let's stand to our feet this morning. And as we get ready to close in just a few moments, and the worship team begins to play, this is what I want us to do. We're going to together pray for our nation right now." [01:31:15] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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