Embracing God's Presence in Family and Worship
Summary
### Summary
This morning, we gathered to worship and express our gratitude to God, despite the heat and humidity. We prayed for God's presence to fill our hearts and our church, reminding ourselves that even in the valley of the shadow of death, we need not fear because God is with us. We reflected on the story of the alabaster box, emphasizing that whatever we pour out in worship to God, He sees and values, even if others do not. We were encouraged to trust and follow Jesus, even when it doesn't seem glamorous or makes sense in the natural.
We discussed the importance of raising a godly family and the relevance of God's Word in our lives. Whether single or married, God has a plan for each of us, and we are to walk in His Word and Spirit. Raising children is challenging, but God provides the grace and strength needed. We shared personal stories, like the extreme home makeover our church family helped with, to illustrate that a perfect home isn't necessary; a loving, Jesus-centered home is what matters.
We also touched on the importance of having deep, meaningful conversations within our families, rather than skirting around issues. God's Word and Spirit are stronger than any mistakes we might make as parents. We are to walk in grace and patience, trusting that God will bless whatever we give to Him. We emphasized the need for parents to hear God's voice for their children and to stand firm in faith, even when the world says to give up.
We concluded by encouraging parents to pray over their children and declare God's promises over their lives. We reminded everyone that God is faithful and that our strength comes from Him. Our children should see us as examples of faith and reliance on God, knowing that we are limited, but God is limitless.
### Key Takeaways
1. God's Presence in Our Lives: No matter the circumstances, God's presence is with us. Even in the valley of the shadow of death, we need not fear because He is our protector and provider. This assurance allows us to sit and abide in His peace, knowing that He prepares a table for us in the presence of our enemies. [12:01]
2. Value of Our Worship: Whatever we pour out in worship to God, whether it's our finances, time, or sacrifices, He sees and values it. Even if others do not understand or appreciate our devotion, God does, and He will defend and honor us for it. [40:53]
3. Raising a Godly Family: Raising children is one of the hardest jobs, but God provides the grace and strength needed. A perfect home isn't necessary; what matters is a loving, Jesus-centered home where deep, meaningful conversations can take place. [57:46]
4. Hearing God's Voice for Our Children: It's crucial for parents to hear God's voice for their children. This guidance helps us stand firm in faith and navigate the challenges of parenting. Our children are gifts from God, anointed for this season, and we must trust in His plan for them. [01:12:52]
5. Praying Over Our Children: Parents should regularly pray over their children, declaring God's promises and protection over their lives. This practice not only covers them in prayer but also teaches them the importance of relying on God. Our strength comes from Him, and our children should see us as examples of faith and reliance on God. [01:41:52]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[11:23] - Opening Prayer
[12:01] - God's Presence in Our Lives
[39:26] - Revelation of the Alabaster Box
[40:53] - Value of Our Worship
[41:29] - Trusting and Following Jesus
[42:08] - Family Sunday and Kids Ministry
[56:06] - Raising a Godly Family
[57:46] - No Perfect Home
[58:48] - Deep Conversations in Families
[01:01:36] - Importance of Patience and Grace
[01:10:05] - God's Patience in Parenting
[01:12:52] - Hearing God's Voice for Our Children
[01:16:30] - Praying Over Our Children
[01:20:32] - Celebrating God's Faithfulness
[01:23:41] - Standing Firm in Faith
[01:28:31] - Knowing Our Limits
[01:29:29] - Healthy Boundaries
[01:31:00] - God's Power in Our Weakness
[01:34:34] - Reflecting Christ in Our Actions
[01:37:25] - Praying Over Our Children and Grandchildren
[01:39:29] - Standing in the Gap for Future Generations
[01:41:52] - Declaring Psalm 91 Over Our Families
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Psalm 23:4-5 (NIV) - "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows."
2. Matthew 18:20 (NIV) - "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."
3. Judges 13:3-5 (NIV) - "The angel of the Lord appeared to her and said, 'You are barren and childless, but you are going to become pregnant and give birth to a son. Now see to it that you drink no wine or other fermented drink and that you do not eat anything unclean. You will become pregnant and have a son whose head is never to be touched by a razor because the boy is to be a Nazirite, dedicated to God from the womb. He will take the lead in delivering Israel from the hands of the Philistines.'"
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Psalm 23:4-5 say about God's presence in our lives, especially during difficult times? How does this relate to the sermon’s message about God's protection and provision? [12:01]
2. In Matthew 18:20, what promise does Jesus give about His presence when believers gather? How does this apply to our church gatherings and family worship? [01:03:33]
3. According to Judges 13:3-5, what specific instructions did the angel give to Samson's mother? How does this passage emphasize the importance of hearing God's voice for our children? [01:12:52]
4. What was the significance of the alabaster box in the sermon, and how does it illustrate the value of our worship to God? [40:53]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the assurance of God's presence in Psalm 23:4-5 help believers face their fears and challenges? How can this be applied to the struggles mentioned in the sermon? [12:01]
2. What does Matthew 18:20 teach us about the power of communal prayer and worship? How can this understanding strengthen our family and church relationships? [01:03:33]
3. In Judges 13:3-5, why was it important for Samson's mother to follow the angel's instructions? How does this story highlight the need for parents to seek and follow God's guidance for their children? [01:12:52]
4. Reflecting on the story of the alabaster box, why is it important to recognize that God values our worship and sacrifices, even when others do not? How does this encourage us to remain faithful in our devotion? [40:53]
#### Application Questions
1. Psalm 23:4-5 speaks of God's presence in the darkest valleys. Can you share a time when you felt God's presence during a difficult situation? How did it change your perspective? [12:01]
2. How can you create an environment in your home where deep, meaningful conversations can take place, as emphasized in the sermon? What steps can you take to ensure that your home is Jesus-centered? [58:48]
3. The sermon mentioned the importance of hearing God's voice for our children. What practices can you implement to better discern God's guidance for your family? [01:12:52]
4. How can you make prayer a regular part of your family's routine? What specific prayers or promises from the Bible can you declare over your children? [01:41:52]
5. Reflect on the idea that there is no perfect home, but a loving, Jesus-centered home is what matters. How can you shift your focus from striving for perfection to fostering love and faith in your household? [57:46]
6. The sermon encouraged parents to stand firm in faith, even when the world says to give up. Can you identify a current challenge where you need to stand firm in faith? How can your small group support you in this? [01:12:52]
7. How can you model reliance on God to your children, showing them that your strength comes from Him? What specific actions can you take this week to demonstrate this reliance? [01:41:52]
Devotional
Day 1: God's Presence in Our Lives
Even in the darkest moments of our lives, God's presence is a constant source of comfort and protection. We are reminded that even in the valley of the shadow of death, we need not fear because God is with us. This assurance allows us to sit and abide in His peace, knowing that He prepares a table for us in the presence of our enemies. God's presence is not just a theological concept but a lived reality that we can experience daily. It is a promise that He will never leave us nor forsake us, no matter the circumstances we face. [12:01]
Psalm 23:4-5 (ESV): "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows."
Reflection: Think of a recent challenging situation you faced. How did you experience God's presence during that time? If you didn't, what steps can you take to become more aware of His presence in your daily life?
Day 2: Value of Our Worship
Whatever we pour out in worship to God, whether it's our finances, time, or sacrifices, He sees and values it. Even if others do not understand or appreciate our devotion, God does, and He will defend and honor us for it. The story of the alabaster box reminds us that our acts of worship, no matter how small or insignificant they may seem to others, are precious in God's eyes. Our worship is a fragrant offering to Him, and He cherishes every moment we spend in His presence. [40:53]
Mark 14:3-6 (ESV): "And while he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he was reclining at table, a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head. There were some who said to themselves indignantly, 'Why was the ointment wasted like that? For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and given to the poor.' And they scolded her. But Jesus said, 'Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me.'"
Reflection: Reflect on a recent act of worship or sacrifice you made for God. How did it make you feel, and how do you think God viewed it? What can you do to ensure that your worship remains genuine and heartfelt?
Day 3: Raising a Godly Family
Raising children is one of the hardest jobs, but God provides the grace and strength needed. A perfect home isn't necessary; what matters is a loving, Jesus-centered home where deep, meaningful conversations can take place. The focus should be on creating an environment where God's Word and Spirit are central, and where children can grow in their faith. Personal stories, like the extreme home makeover our church family helped with, illustrate that a perfect home isn't necessary; a loving, Jesus-centered home is what matters. [57:46]
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV): "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."
Reflection: Think about the atmosphere in your home. What steps can you take to make it more Jesus-centered and conducive to deep, meaningful conversations about faith?
Day 4: Hearing God's Voice for Our Children
It's crucial for parents to hear God's voice for their children. This guidance helps us stand firm in faith and navigate the challenges of parenting. Our children are gifts from God, anointed for this season, and we must trust in His plan for them. By seeking God's voice, parents can better understand the unique calling and purpose He has for each child, and can provide the support and encouragement needed to help them fulfill it. [01:12:52]
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: Spend some time in prayer asking God to reveal His plans and purposes for your children. How can you better support and guide them in their spiritual journey?
Day 5: Praying Over Our Children
Parents should regularly pray over their children, declaring God's promises and protection over their lives. This practice not only covers them in prayer but also teaches them the importance of relying on God. Our strength comes from Him, and our children should see us as examples of faith and reliance on God. By praying over our children, we are not only interceding on their behalf but also modeling a life of prayer and dependence on God. [01:41:52]
Ephesians 6:18 (ESV): "Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints."
Reflection: Make a list of specific prayers and promises you want to declare over your children. How can you incorporate regular prayer for your children into your daily routine?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "When we are desperate, we always make stupid decisions. And when we feel like we have to control, we're not walking in faith, we're walking in fear. And so a controlling person is really a fearful person." [01:05:25] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "You are not that strong that you can ruin your children's lives. God's Word and God's Spirit is stronger than anything. And so let's just walk in Grace with each other. No matter where you find yourself no matter where you're at in marriage or where you're at in your marriage family. God's still going to bless us whatever we give to him. He's going to take and turn it for our good and our family's good." [59:39] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God didn't promise us an easy life. He promised us a life with ease in him. So it's really important that when we look at our families, you know that the title being God bless this mess. It's it's just funny. Because so many times when I meet people I've had people tell me. So do you serve like a five-course meal at every I go? Are you kidding me? Or they'll say I bet you use your China. I like no, I haven't used my China for literally 20 years." [57:05] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You cannot keep going and saying oh I can do this. I can be because I will tell you sometimes as parents. There's this lie. I can be all things to my children because I'm strong enough. You cannot. I have a friend that had two different children and she by two different fathers and she those fathers were both married men. She comes to Jesus and she's like I have no father for these children." [01:30:05] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "May the children that God has given us see the Bible as theirs. Amen. moment. I'm going to ask our greeters if you would. We have VBS coming up at the end of the July. Plus we have youth camp. Don't miss it. And our youth group has been having over 50 on Wednesday nights. Can I just tell you, God is moving. Bring your kids and your neighbors as Zane Helton took them bowling and then brought them to youth group. Bring them. Okay. We love" [01:42:40] (102 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "It's really important that we've been talking about the relevance of the word of God. And how the Spirit of God helps us to walk out the word and how it doesn't matter what you may be married into. It doesn't matter what kind of children personalities the word of God works. And the Spirit of God speaks to us for every child for our husbands our wives. God speaks to us. If you're single God has a plan for you." [56:06] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "It's important that they see us pray and how to personally apply those prayers to themselves. So for me personally, there are scriptures that I've asked because I asked the Lord he speaks to me and I want you to know put your just let's just put our hands on your heart and just ask God say God. What do you have to say? You're supposed to say that what God? Just ask him that all the time doesn't have to be in the middle of a devastating moment." [01:16:30] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "I want you to know you can't always change things, but you can meet with God and get his presence and his peace. Amen. Yeah, it's really important that we do show patience and I think that word also coincides with grace when we have grace. We have an ability to withstand seasons that are hard. We have an ability to be with our children in different times and different, you know, a two-year-old is going to act a lot different than a four-year-old and the reality is there's patience that God has for you in that season that supernaturally can come on you." [01:07:06] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "I want to charge the parents because as we lean on God's strength, I want to charge you to declare Psalm 91 by name over each of your children and grandchildren. Some of you have texted me in the middle of the night, you're terrified. Every day I pray over our church, but I specifically name our children, their spouse, their boyfriend, whoever they're with, their future spouse, and their children. And I name people as the Holy Spirit speaks to me about the church." [01:40:58] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You don't have to don't act perfect because nobody when they're when you're going through a trouble or a trial the last person you want to call is someone who looks like they always have it together. So let's be real authentic and Jesus centered. Amen." [01:03:33] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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