Embracing God's Unexpected Call and Spirit's Guidance
Summary
In the sermon, I shared my experiences in Romania, where I was called to serve as a missionary. I recounted how I was unexpectedly asked to deliver a devotional at an event, which turned into a full sermon. This experience was a testament to how God can use us in ways we never anticipate. I also shared how the financial support from the congregation helped me accomplish many things in Romania, from hosting kids' events to filming a TV show. I emphasized the importance of the congregation's support, not just financially, but also spiritually, in the mission field.
I also shared stories from my time in Romania that illustrated the power of the Holy Spirit and the importance of listening to His voice. I recounted how I observed shepherds guiding their flocks, and how the sheep recognized and followed the voice of their shepherd. This served as a powerful metaphor for how we, as Christians, should listen to and follow the voice of the Holy Spirit. I also shared about a youth camp where we taught about the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Despite cultural beliefs that children couldn't receive salvation or the Holy Spirit, the young people at the camp were filled with the Holy Spirit, demonstrating God's power and love for all His children.
Key Takeaways:
- God can use us in unexpected ways if we are open and willing. This was demonstrated when I was asked to deliver a devotional that turned into a full sermon. ([01:10:48])
- The support of the congregation, both financially and spiritually, is crucial in the mission field. This was evident in the various activities and events I was able to host in Romania. ([01:11:36])
- Listening to and following the voice of the Holy Spirit is essential in our Christian walk. This was illustrated in the story of the shepherds and their flocks. ([01:13:50])
- God's power and love extend to all His children, regardless of age or cultural beliefs. This was demonstrated in the youth camp where young people were filled with the Holy Spirit. ([01:16:16])
- The Bible is a living word full of emotion, and we should read it with the same passion and excitement. This was emphasized in my reading of Isaiah chapter six. ([01:25:25])
Study Guide
Main Points from the Sermon:
1) The importance of teaching and equipping individuals to work with children in ministry was emphasized. The speaker shared about a week-long seminar that teaches individuals how to work with children, understanding their learning patterns and how to effectively communicate with them. This training is not only for missionaries but also for regular church members. #!!47:57!!#
2) The speaker highlighted the significance of using object lessons and characters to reach children. This method of teaching is effective because it uses familiar objects to convey truths, making it easier for children to understand and remember the lessons. #!!50:48!!#
3) The speaker shared about the impact of Operation Christmas Child, a ministry that sends out gifts and faith materials worldwide. The speaker emphasized that each box has the potential to reach at least nine other people, making it a powerful tool for spreading the gospel. #!!58:27!!#
4) The speaker encouraged the audience to use their unique traits and characteristics to reach children for Jesus. The speaker emphasized that children will remember the unique and funny things adults do to reach them for Jesus, rather than their physical appearance or material possessions. #!!54:24!!#
Bible Chapters for the Group to Read:
1) Matthew 18:1-14
2) 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
3) 2 Timothy 2:15
Discussion Guide:
Observation Questions:
1) In Matthew 18:1-14, how does Jesus emphasize the importance of children in the kingdom of heaven?
2) How does 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 relate to the speaker's point about using unique traits and characteristics to reach children for Jesus?
3) What does 2 Timothy 2:15 teach us about the importance of being equipped and prepared for ministry?
Interpretation Questions:
1) How can we apply Jesus' teachings about children in Matthew 18:1-14 to our own ministry with children?
2) In what ways can we use our unique traits and characteristics to reach children for Jesus, as suggested by the speaker and supported by 1 Corinthians 9:19-23?
3) How does 2 Timothy 2:15 encourage us to be diligent and prepared in our ministry, similar to the speaker's point about the importance of training for children's ministry?
Application Questions:
1) How can we improve our approach to children's ministry in light of Jesus' teachings in Matthew 18:1-14?
2) Can you think of unique traits or characteristics that you can use to reach children for Jesus, as suggested by the speaker and supported by 1 Corinthians 9:19-23?
3) How can we apply the principle of diligent preparation from 2 Timothy 2:15 in our own ministry with children?
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Preparedness
The sermon emphasizes the importance of being prepared for God's call, even when it seems unexpected. The pastor had prepared a devotional that ended up being used for a sermon in Romania, demonstrating that God can use our preparations in ways we never anticipated. This shows that when we prepare ourselves spiritually, God can use us to deliver His message in powerful ways. ([01:10:48])
Bible Passage: 2 Timothy 4:2 - "Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when God used your preparation in an unexpected way. How did this experience strengthen your faith?
Day 2: The Impact of Financial Support
The sermon highlights the impact of financial support on missions, specifically in Romania. The pastor shares how the congregation's financial support helped in various ways, including writing curriculum within the Romanian cultural context. This shows that our financial contributions can have a significant impact on spreading God's word. ([01:11:36])
Bible Passage: 2 Corinthians 9:7 - "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
Reflection: How can you contribute financially to the spread of God's word? What steps can you take to become a cheerful giver?
Day 3: The Value of Learning and Growth
The pastor shares her experiences in Romania, where she learned new skills and grew in her faith. This shows that stepping out of our comfort zones and being open to learning can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of God's work. ([01:12:29])
Bible Passage: Proverbs 1:5 - "Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you stepped out of your comfort zone in your faith journey. How did this experience contribute to your spiritual growth?
Day 4: The Significance of Worship
The sermon emphasizes the importance of worship, even in the midst of trials. The pastor shares how the congregation continued to worship despite various challenges, demonstrating that worship is a powerful way to connect with God and find strength during difficult times. ([08:11])
Bible Passage: Psalm 59:16 - "But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble."
Reflection: How has worship helped you during challenging times? How can you incorporate more worship into your daily life?
Day 5: The Importance of Prayer
The sermon highlights the power of prayer, with the pastor praying for various needs within the congregation. This shows that prayer is a vital part of our faith, allowing us to bring our needs before God and trust in His provision. ([23:58])
Bible Passage: Philippians 4:6 - "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when prayer made a significant impact on your situation. How can you make prayer a more integral part of your daily life?
Quotes
1. "I love you, and I lift my voice to worship you on my soul. Be true to my life here. It must you here may be a swing sweet in your name." - 15:15
2. "God, that no matter what life throws at us, no matter what our body might feel like, no matter what our circumstances might try to dictate, God, you're all we want. You're all we've ever needed." - 22:52
3. "Lord, we say thank you that because we know that you don't remove us from storms, but you guide us through them and you walk with us." - 08:11
4. "All of these young Gypsy men had dressed up in their best suits. And they had come to learn how to teach the children of their community about Jesus. It was mind blowing." - 52:56
5. "It doesn't matter if you have a limp. It doesn't matter if you have a crooked foot. It doesn't matter if you've got a hunchback. If you're Miss and teeth, if your ears are funny, if your hair is falling out, use it. And make it count for Jesus." - 54:24
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