Embracing God's Presence: Power, Prayer, and Preparation
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to celebrate the power and presence of Jesus Christ. We began by acknowledging the mighty name of Jesus, which causes demons to tremble and casts away depression and anxiety. We thanked God for the blood of Jesus that washes away every sin and for the Holy Spirit drawing us closer to Him. We prayed for prodigals to return, for sickness and disease to be subdued, and for revival in our church. We asked for a spirit of wisdom and revelation to truly know God and to see ourselves as victorious in Christ.
We also discussed the importance of fasting and prayer as a means to draw closer to God and to provoke His hand to move in our lives. Fasting is not just a diet but a spiritual discipline that helps us crucify our flesh and align ourselves with God's will. We shared testimonies of God's faithfulness, emphasizing that when we trust Him with our finances and other areas of our lives, He blesses us abundantly.
The sermon then focused on the name of God, Jehovah Shema, which means "The Lord is there." We explored how God's presence was with biblical figures like David, Moses, and Enoch, and how it is with us today. We were reminded that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit and that God's presence dwells within us. This should inspire us to live boldly and confidently, knowing that God is always with us.
We were challenged to hunger for God's presence, to expect it, and to respond appropriately when we encounter it. This involves changing our spiritual habits to prioritize God's Word and prayer, thereby increasing our hunger for Him. We were encouraged to be a church that honors the Holy Spirit, believes the Bible, and carries God's glory.
Finally, we were reminded that Jesus is preparing a place for us in heaven and that we should live our lives in a way that prepares us for eternity. We closed with a call to repentance and a prayer for those who wanted to make Jesus the Lord of their lives.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Jesus' Name: The name of Jesus holds immense power, capable of casting away depression, anxiety, and fear. It is through His name that we find victory and strength. This power is available to us when we boldly approach God's throne and cry out in the name of Jesus. [35:43]
2. The Importance of Fasting and Prayer: Fasting is a crucial spiritual discipline that helps us crucify our flesh and align ourselves with God's will. It is not merely a diet but a means to provoke God's hand to move in our lives. When we fast and pray, we position ourselves to receive breakthroughs and divine intervention. [41:23]
3. Jehovah Shema - The Lord is There: God's presence is always with us, just as it was with biblical figures like David, Moses, and Enoch. We are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and this should inspire us to live boldly and confidently. Knowing that God is always with us should eliminate fear and fill us with courage. [54:34]
4. Hunger for God's Presence: We should cultivate a deep hunger for God's presence, expecting and responding to it appropriately. This involves changing our spiritual habits to prioritize God's Word and prayer. As we do this, our hunger for God will increase, and we will experience His presence more profoundly. [56:05]
5. Preparing for Eternity: Jesus is preparing a place for us in heaven, and we should live our lives in a way that prepares us for eternity. This involves repenting of our sins, making Jesus the Lord of our lives, and living in a manner that honors Him. Our time on earth is short, and we should use it wisely to develop a deep relationship with God. [01:28:32]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[35:43] - Power in the Name of Jesus
[36:53] - Prayer for Revival and Wisdom
[37:17] - Church Announcements
[37:56] - Evangelistic Ministry Update
[38:45] - Church Planting Vision
[39:28] - Sight and Sound Event
[40:05] - Call to Fasting and Prayer
[41:23] - Importance of Fasting
[43:16] - Spiritual Training Analogy
[45:06] - Tithes and Offerings
[46:54] - Testimony of Faith
[51:15] - Names of God Series
[54:34] - Jehovah Shema: The Lord is There
[56:05] - Hunger for God's Presence
[01:28:32] - Preparing for Eternity
[01:34:03] - Closing Prayer and Altar Call
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Philippians 2:9-11: "Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
2. Isaiah 58:6-9: "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I."
3. Psalm 42:1-2: "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?"
### Observation Questions
1. According to Philippians 2:9-11, what is the significance of the name of Jesus? How does this align with the sermon’s emphasis on the power of Jesus' name? [35:43]
2. In Isaiah 58:6-9, what are the specific actions associated with true fasting? How do these actions reflect the sermon’s teaching on fasting and prayer? [41:23]
3. Psalm 42:1-2 uses the imagery of a deer panting for water. How does this imagery relate to the sermon’s call to hunger for God's presence? [56:05]
4. What examples from the sermon illustrate the concept of Jehovah Shema, "The Lord is there"? [54:34]
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the power of Jesus' name, as described in Philippians 2:9-11, provide comfort and strength in times of depression and anxiety? [35:43]
2. Reflecting on Isaiah 58:6-9, how can fasting and prayer lead to personal and communal breakthroughs? What does this suggest about the relationship between spiritual disciplines and divine intervention? [41:23]
3. Considering Psalm 42:1-2, what does it mean to truly hunger and thirst for God in your daily life? How can this desire transform your spiritual habits? [56:05]
4. How does the understanding of Jehovah Shema, "The Lord is there," influence your confidence and boldness in facing life's challenges? [54:34]
### Application Questions
1. The sermon emphasized the power of Jesus' name in overcoming depression and anxiety. Can you recall a time when calling on Jesus' name brought you peace or victory? How can you make this a regular practice in your life? [35:43]
2. Fasting and prayer were highlighted as crucial spiritual disciplines. What specific steps can you take to incorporate fasting into your spiritual routine? How will you ensure that it is more than just a diet but a means to draw closer to God? [41:23]
3. The sermon challenged us to hunger for God's presence. What changes can you make in your daily schedule to prioritize time with God? How will you cultivate a deeper hunger for His presence? [56:05]
4. Reflecting on the concept of Jehovah Shema, how can you remind yourself of God's constant presence in your life, especially during difficult times? What practical steps can you take to live more boldly and confidently, knowing that God is always with you? [54:34]
5. The sermon called for a life that prepares for eternity. What areas of your life need repentance and realignment with God's will? How will you make Jesus the Lord of your life in those areas? [01:28:32]
6. How can you actively participate in creating a church environment that honors the Holy Spirit and carries God's glory? What specific actions will you take to contribute to this vision? [01:25:36]
7. The sermon mentioned the importance of expecting and responding to God's presence. How can you develop a mindset of expectation for God's presence in your daily activities? What will you do differently to respond appropriately when you sense His presence? [56:05]
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Jesus' Name
The name of Jesus holds immense power, capable of casting away depression, anxiety, and fear. It is through His name that we find victory and strength. This power is available to us when we boldly approach God's throne and cry out in the name of Jesus. The name of Jesus is not just a label but a declaration of His authority and presence. When we invoke His name, we are calling upon the very essence of who He is—our Savior, Healer, and Deliverer. This should give us confidence and boldness in our prayers and daily lives, knowing that we have access to such a powerful name.
In moments of despair or fear, remember that the name of Jesus is a strong tower, a refuge where we can find safety and peace. When we speak His name, we are aligning ourselves with His will and inviting His power into our circumstances. Let this truth transform the way you pray and live, knowing that you are never alone and that the name of Jesus is your greatest weapon against any challenge you face. [35:43]
Isaiah 9:6 (ESV): "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Reflection: Think of a specific situation in your life where you need to see a breakthrough. How can you boldly invoke the name of Jesus in that situation today?
Day 2: The Importance of Fasting and Prayer
Fasting is a crucial spiritual discipline that helps us crucify our flesh and align ourselves with God's will. It is not merely a diet but a means to provoke God's hand to move in our lives. When we fast and pray, we position ourselves to receive breakthroughs and divine intervention. Fasting is a way to humble ourselves before God, showing our dependence on Him and our desire to seek His face more earnestly. It is a time to disconnect from the distractions of the world and focus on our relationship with God.
Through fasting, we can experience a deeper intimacy with God and a heightened sensitivity to His voice. It is a powerful tool that can bring about spiritual renewal and transformation. As you consider incorporating fasting into your spiritual routine, remember that it is not about the act itself but about drawing closer to God and aligning your heart with His purposes. [41:23]
Joel 2:12-13 (ESV): "Yet even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments." Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to see God's intervention? How can you incorporate fasting and prayer to seek His guidance and breakthrough in that area?
Day 3: Jehovah Shema - The Lord is There
God's presence is always with us, just as it was with biblical figures like David, Moses, and Enoch. We are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and this should inspire us to live boldly and confidently. Knowing that God is always with us should eliminate fear and fill us with courage. The name Jehovah Shema, meaning "The Lord is there," reminds us that God's presence is not confined to a specific place or time but is always with us, wherever we go.
This truth should transform the way we live, knowing that we carry the presence of God within us. It should give us the confidence to face any challenge, knowing that we are never alone. As you go about your day, remember that God's presence is with you, guiding you, and empowering you to live a life that honors Him. [54:34]
Ezekiel 48:35 (ESV): "The circumference of the city shall be 18,000 cubits. And the name of the city from that time on shall be, The Lord Is There."
Reflection: How does knowing that God's presence is always with you change the way you approach your daily challenges? What steps can you take to become more aware of His presence in your life?
Day 4: Hunger for God's Presence
We should cultivate a deep hunger for God's presence, expecting and responding to it appropriately. This involves changing our spiritual habits to prioritize God's Word and prayer. As we do this, our hunger for God will increase, and we will experience His presence more profoundly. Developing a hunger for God's presence means making intentional choices to seek Him daily, setting aside time to read His Word, pray, and worship.
As you cultivate this hunger, you will find that your desire for worldly things diminishes, and your longing for God grows stronger. This hunger will drive you to seek Him more earnestly and to live a life that reflects His glory. Let this be a season of deepening your relationship with God, where you prioritize His presence above all else. [56:05]
Psalm 42:1-2 (ESV): "As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?"
Reflection: What changes can you make in your daily routine to prioritize seeking God's presence? How can you cultivate a deeper hunger for Him in your life?
Day 5: Preparing for Eternity
Jesus is preparing a place for us in heaven, and we should live our lives in a way that prepares us for eternity. This involves repenting of our sins, making Jesus the Lord of our lives, and living in a manner that honors Him. Our time on earth is short, and we should use it wisely to develop a deep relationship with God. Preparing for eternity means living with an eternal perspective, making choices that reflect our hope in Christ and our desire to spend eternity with Him.
As you reflect on your life, consider how you can live in a way that honors God and prepares you for eternity. This may involve making changes in your priorities, relationships, and daily habits to align more closely with God's will. Let the hope of eternity inspire you to live a life that glorifies God and reflects His love to those around you. [01:28:32]
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (ESV): "For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."
Reflection: How does the hope of eternity influence your daily decisions and priorities? What changes can you make to live with a greater focus on preparing for eternity?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "We are believing for a revival. We're believing that God has. He has given us a mandate to reach out to this community. That God is going to set our church apart. That this is going to be a church of freedom. Where people are going to come all bound up in whatever kind of addiction. Whatever kind of lifestyle. And God is going to set them free. Amen?" [40:05] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Jesus is Jehovah Shema, God with us. And if you're feeling, you know, like, man, I'm alone. I feel like, man, where is the Lord? Jesus is Jehovah Shema. If you make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life, the Bible says you become the dwelling place of God himself. That Jesus did the work on the cross to pay the penalty for every single one of your sins. Every single one. Jesus paid the price. His blood was shed so that you could be pardoned and be part of the family of God. Amen." [01:14:21] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God's more interested in who you are than what you do. Just take that time just to be with the Lord. Lord, I hunger for you. Lord, I choose to shift my habits, Lord. To not be a consumer of this world, but to be a consumer of your presence. Lord, you've called me to be a carrier of your glory. So I humble myself, Lord. I humble myself, Lord. I will honor you with my life. I will honor you with my words, Lord. May your kingdom come. May your will be done in my life. As it is in heaven, Lord." [01:34:03] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Jesus says, come to me all you who labor and heavy laden. I'll give you rest. He said, learn from me for I am lowly and humble at heart. He says, my yoke is easy. My burden is light. Jesus has called it to do life with them like this, to be connected with them. Not just come to church and call out when we need something. He says to walk in his presence because that is our DNA. That is how we were created." [01:02:24] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Jesus is preparing a place for you and I. We all have an appointed time to be on this earth. I don't know when that is. You don't know when your season of life is going to end on this earth. Which means you need to live every moment knowing that you know that you are in the right standing with God. Amen? Don't play around with your life. You can be here one moment, the next breath, you're gone. You don't know when that's going to be. So be a person who is not playing around with their eternity." [01:26:50] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Do you hunger for more of his presence or are you satisfied with where you are? Do you hunger for more or are you satisfied with where you are? Because you hunger for what you consume. Whatever it is that you eat, that's what you're going to begin to hunger for." [01:16:22] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "David had this confidence of God's presence. He says, where can I go from your spirit or where can I flee from your presence? If I ascend into heaven, you are there. If I make my bed in hell, behold, you are there. If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there, your hand shall lead me and your right hand shall hold me." [01:08:13] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Do you not know that you're the temple of God and that the spirit of God dwells in you? Do you know that? Like, let that part sink in a second. Do you not know? That should be where we should go all the time. I would highlight this verse in your Bible and encircle that part that says, do you not know? Let that be a continual challenge to you. When depression wants to weigh in, when fear wants to come in, when the trials of this world want to come in, when you're like, how am I going to overcome this? How will I get through this? This circumstance of life is just weighing on me so greatly. Do you not know?" [01:15:02] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We are a church that's going to love people. We want to see people set free. But we're going to do it by honoring the Lord first. Jesus focused on the church in Revelation chapter 2 and verse 3. You see, all the churches that he had come against commanded us to not be hot or cold. Excuse me, to be hot or cold, but not lukewarm. God has called us to be a church that is on fire, that is hot for him." [01:24:41] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "When we make Jesus the Lord of our life, He says we become a new creation. Old things pass away. Behold, all things become new. But by faith, we leave the old things behind and we walk in the newness of life. Amen? God has called you to this. And He has given you this. He's given His Holy Spirit to help you to walk in this. So, I want to challenge you to value this." [01:29:14] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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