Embracing God's Unwavering Love and Strength

Summary

### Summary

Tonight, we gathered to reflect on the profound love and commitment God has for each of us, as illustrated in Daniel 10. We began by acknowledging God's promise to restore both marital and business relationships, urging those in crisis to step back from their own ideas and receive divine guidance. This sets the stage for understanding the depth of God's investment in us.

We delved into the book of Daniel, focusing on the angel's message to Daniel: "O man greatly beloved." This phrase underscores the immense value God places on us, not just for our roles or achievements, but for who we are as individuals. Daniel's life, marked by his unwavering commitment to prayer and spiritual investment, serves as a model for us. Despite his high status in Babylon, Daniel's heart longed for Jerusalem, demonstrating that true understanding and intercession come from a deep spiritual investment.

We explored the significance of being "greatly beloved" by God, emphasizing that this love is not contingent on our circumstances but is a constant, unwavering truth. This understanding should shape our daily lives, giving us a sense of worth and purpose. We are reminded that God is not a user; He is deeply invested in us, and this investment is evident in the way He values our character over our gifts.

The sermon also addressed the importance of acknowledging and overcoming fear. While it is natural to experience fear, we must not let it dominate us. Instead, we should seek God's strength and guidance, as Daniel did. The angel's repeated exhortation to "be strong" highlights the need for resilience and reliance on God's word.

Finally, we were encouraged to anchor ourselves in the consciousness of God's love. This love is a source of strength and stability, enabling us to face life's challenges with confidence. By hearing God's voice and spending time in His word, we receive the strength we need for each day. The message concluded with a call to rise each morning with the awareness that we are greatly loved by God, ready to face the day with the assurance of His unwavering commitment.

### Key Takeaways

1. God's Restoration of Relationships: God is actively restoring both marital and business relationships. For those in crisis, the instruction is to step back from personal ideas and receive divine guidance. This restoration is not about reestablishing old patterns but about opening new channels for God's blessings. [14:43]

2. The Value God Places on Us: The phrase "O man greatly beloved" signifies the immense value God places on each of us. This value is not based on our roles or achievements but on who we are as individuals. Understanding this can transform our self-perception and daily living. [19:36]

3. Overcoming Fear with God's Strength: It is natural to experience fear, but we must not let it dominate us. Instead, we should seek God's strength and guidance. The repeated exhortation to "be strong" in Daniel 10 emphasizes the need for resilience and reliance on God's word. [46:32]

4. Anchoring in God's Love: God's love is a constant, unwavering truth that should shape our daily lives. By anchoring ourselves in this love, we gain a sense of worth and purpose, enabling us to face life's challenges with confidence. [51:14]

5. Hearing God's Voice for Strength: The strength we need for each day comes from hearing God's voice and spending time in His word. This daily communion with God equips us to handle the challenges we face, ensuring that we are not overwhelmed by life's difficulties. [53:25]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[14:43] - God's Promise of Restoration
[15:59] - Introduction to Daniel 10
[17:35] - Context of the Book of Daniel
[19:36] - O Man Greatly Beloved
[21:01] - Daniel's Spiritual Investment
[22:36] - Understanding Prophecies
[25:13] - The Value God Places on Us
[30:14] - God is Not a User
[33:48] - Character Over Giftings
[46:32] - Be Strong, Be Strong
[51:14] - Anchoring in God's Love
[53:25] - Hearing God's Voice for Strength
[57:02] - Overcoming Weak Mentality
[01:02:02] - Knowing God's Love
[01:07:12] - Conclusion and Prayer

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Daniel 10:19 - "And he said, 'O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong.' And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, 'Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me.'"
2. Ephesians 1:16-19 - "I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might."

#### Observation Questions
1. What specific relationships did the sermon mention that God is actively restoring? ([14:43])
2. How did the angel address Daniel in Daniel 10:19, and what was the significance of this address? ([19:36])
3. According to the sermon, what was Daniel's usual habit that demonstrated his spiritual investment? ([21:01])
4. What does Ephesians 1:16-19 say about the kind of knowledge and understanding Paul prays for believers to have?

#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to understand that God's love for us is not based on our circumstances but is a constant truth? How does this shape our daily lives? ([19:36])
2. How can acknowledging and overcoming fear with God's strength change our approach to challenges? ([46:32])
3. What does it mean to be "greatly beloved" by God, and how should this understanding affect our self-perception and actions? ([19:36])
4. How does spending time in God's word and hearing His voice provide the strength we need for each day? ([53:25])

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you faced a crisis in a relationship (marital, business, or otherwise). How did stepping back from your own ideas and seeking divine guidance help or could have helped in that situation? ([14:43])
2. How can you remind yourself daily of the immense value God places on you as an individual, not just for your roles or achievements? What practical steps can you take to internalize this truth? ([19:36])
3. Fear is a natural emotion, but it should not dominate us. What are some fears you currently face, and how can you seek God's strength and guidance to overcome them? ([46:32])
4. In what ways can you anchor yourself in the consciousness of God's love to gain a sense of worth and purpose? How does this anchoring help you face life's challenges with confidence? ([51:14])
5. Describe a specific instance when hearing God's voice or spending time in His word provided you with the strength to handle a difficult situation. How can you make this a regular practice in your life? ([53:25])
6. Think about a recent challenge you faced. How did your understanding of being "greatly beloved" by God influence your response to that challenge? If it didn't, how might it have changed your approach?
7. Identify one area of your life where you need to be stronger and more resilient. What steps can you take to rely more on God's word and less on your own strength in this area? ([46:32])

Devotional

Day 1: God's Restoration of Relationships
God is actively restoring both marital and business relationships. For those in crisis, the instruction is to step back from personal ideas and receive divine guidance. This restoration is not about reestablishing old patterns but about opening new channels for God's blessings. When we face challenges in our relationships, it is easy to rely on our own understanding and solutions. However, God invites us to step back and seek His wisdom and guidance. By doing so, we open ourselves to new possibilities and divine intervention that can bring true restoration and healing.

In Daniel 10, we see how Daniel's commitment to prayer and seeking God's guidance led to profound revelations and divine assistance. Similarly, when we surrender our relationships to God and seek His direction, we allow Him to work in ways that we could never imagine. This process requires humility and trust, but the result is a deeper connection with God and a more fulfilling relationship with others. [14:43]

Isaiah 43:18-19 (ESV): "Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."

Reflection: Think of a relationship in your life that is currently in crisis. How can you step back from your own ideas and seek God's guidance for restoration today?

Day 2: The Value God Places on Us
The phrase "O man greatly beloved" signifies the immense value God places on each of us. This value is not based on our roles or achievements but on who we are as individuals. Understanding this can transform our self-perception and daily living. In a world that often measures worth by accomplishments and status, it is crucial to remember that God's love for us is unconditional and unwavering. He values us for who we are, not for what we do.

Daniel's life exemplifies this truth. Despite his high status in Babylon, Daniel's heart longed for Jerusalem, and his commitment to prayer and spiritual investment was unwavering. God's message to Daniel, calling him "greatly beloved," highlights the deep affection and value God places on each of us. This understanding should shape our self-worth and how we approach our daily lives, knowing that we are cherished by God. [19:36]

Psalm 139:13-14 (ESV): "For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well."

Reflection: Reflect on how you perceive your worth. How does knowing that God values you for who you are, not for what you do, change your self-perception and daily actions?

Day 3: Overcoming Fear with God's Strength
It is natural to experience fear, but we must not let it dominate us. Instead, we should seek God's strength and guidance. The repeated exhortation to "be strong" in Daniel 10 emphasizes the need for resilience and reliance on God's word. Fear can be paralyzing, preventing us from moving forward and fulfilling God's purpose for our lives. However, God provides the strength and courage we need to overcome fear and face challenges with confidence.

Daniel's experience in Daniel 10 shows us that even in the face of overwhelming visions and messages, God's strength is available to us. The angel's repeated encouragement to "be strong" reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles. By relying on God's word and seeking His guidance, we can find the resilience to overcome fear and move forward in faith. [46:32]

Joshua 1:9 (ESV): "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

Reflection: Identify a specific fear that is holding you back. How can you seek God's strength and guidance to overcome this fear today?

Day 4: Anchoring in God's Love
God's love is a constant, unwavering truth that should shape our daily lives. By anchoring ourselves in this love, we gain a sense of worth and purpose, enabling us to face life's challenges with confidence. God's love is not dependent on our circumstances or actions; it is a steadfast and unchanging reality. When we anchor ourselves in this love, we find stability and strength to navigate the ups and downs of life.

Daniel's life demonstrates the power of being anchored in God's love. Despite the challenges and uncertainties he faced, Daniel's commitment to prayer and his relationship with God provided him with the strength and stability he needed. By focusing on God's love and spending time in His word, we can cultivate a deep sense of worth and purpose that empowers us to face any challenge with confidence. [51:14]

Ephesians 3:17-19 (ESV): "So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God."

Reflection: How can you anchor yourself in God's love today? What practical steps can you take to remind yourself of His unwavering commitment to you?

Day 5: Hearing God's Voice for Strength
The strength we need for each day comes from hearing God's voice and spending time in His word. This daily communion with God equips us to handle the challenges we face, ensuring that we are not overwhelmed by life's difficulties. In the busyness of life, it is essential to prioritize time with God, listening to His voice and seeking His guidance. This practice not only strengthens our relationship with Him but also provides the wisdom and strength we need to navigate our daily lives.

Daniel's commitment to prayer and seeking God's guidance serves as a powerful example for us. By dedicating time to hear God's voice and immerse ourselves in His word, we can find the strength and direction we need for each day. This daily practice helps us stay grounded in our faith and equips us to face challenges with confidence and resilience. [53:25]

Isaiah 40:31 (ESV): "But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."

Reflection: How can you prioritize hearing God's voice and spending time in His word today? What specific steps can you take to ensure that this becomes a daily practice in your life?

Quotes

1. "Step back from your ideas on why it is not working and receive how it will work from your spirit. Step back from your ideas. The second category of relationship God says is restoring a business relationship. And the instruction is that He's not asking you to reestablish those relationships in business necessarily. He's not asking you to start a new business together. But he's simply restoring channels for you." [14:43] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "It takes a measure of investment. It takes a measure of us setting our eyes as it were, inclining our hearts and saying God concerning this country, what is written? Then and then only will the books be opened and then the prophecies that were given from the days of Pile El seem to the people that have stood in the place of it, but we didn't understand." [22:36] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "God is not a user. God is first and foremost invested in you. It's a simple understanding but we need to understand that God is far invested in you before he begins to even use you. It looked like you weren't worth any sin on the surface to anyone but actually saw you made, I mean, I mean for someone to ask his son to come and die in my place and in your place there was something God saw even before any calling." [30:14] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "When you wake up and you stretch you go like God’s gift to the world has woken up today wow and the first person you meet you say can you can you perceive greatness it’s not right it’s just just a consciousness of how much God has invested in me so when they tell me that it’s nice shoes I say okay yeah yeah yeah I say thank you but I know God is not a user." [31:59] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "It is actually a sin to place more value on others than you do on yourself. Now we are not we’re not saying you do not honor the grace and the anointing on people don’t get it wrong but we are saying that yes you you acknowledge the office and the grace they stand and they carry but as a person when Jesus went to the to the cross to shed his blood you didn’t say you know for you just let it just sprinkle blood on him say for the others let them immerse them in the blood no it was the same blood that washed you." [35:23] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "When you wake up in the morning, wake up with a consciousness that there is a God committed to you. Not consequent on the exchange rate of the availability of fuel or not. That there is a constancy God’s love for you. Solomon, in all of his glory, the Bible says, wasn’t even as clothed as my plant. This was the Solomon that the queen passed out when she saw his glory." [42:05] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "It’s okay to have a sense of fear. The only sin is you must not have the spirit of fear. The Bible says God has not given us the spirit of fear. But of love power and of a sound mind. But it’s okay at some point in your walk with God. The question is when that sense of fear comes what do you do? And that is the differentiation between the believer who is working in the consciousness of God’s love and God’s commitment to him and the one who is just a carnal being." [48:47] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "We need to overcome the weak mentality. We can’t afford to be weak as believers. You can’t afford to roll over just because a circumstance has happened that didn’t go as you planned it. And many of us are so quick to develop a theology and a philosophy around an experience that has happened. Just one experience whether good or bad. It’s not enough to weave a theology around it. Our theology is woven around the constancy and the reliability of God’s word not our experience." [55:45] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "Anchor yourself in the consciousness of his love. 1 John 4 verse 16 And we have known and we believe the love that God has for us God is love and he that dwells in love He says we know we know we know the love God has for us. That’s why you can understand the prayer that Paul prayed in Ephesians 3 when he said you will be strengthened with might by God’s spirit in your inner man that you being rooted and grounded in God’s love will come to know what is the height the breadth the width God’s love." [01:02:02] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "The strength you and I need is going to come from hearing his voice. As you spend time in the world and as you ask him open my eyes open my ears that strength is going to come because you are hearing his voice. Look at what Psalm says I like this Psalm a lot Psalm 29 verse 3 Daniel said when he spoke to me I was strengthened and I said to him speak because you have strengthened me. The strength you need for each day." [01:04:10] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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