Embracing Miracles: Faith, Community, and Spiritual Empowerment

 

Summary

### Summary

Welcome to the miracle! We are in the midst of a miraculous season in our church and in our lives. God is constantly creating and inviting us into His story. Sometimes, we overlook the small miracles in our lives, like the simple act of breathing, because we are so focused on the big things. But God is always at work, even in the smallest details. We need to shift our perspective and recognize the miracles happening around us every day.

In 1 Samuel 13:19, we learn that the Israelites had no blacksmiths because the Philistines had taken control. This meant that the Israelites had to go to their enemies to get their tools sharpened, paying a premium for it. This is a powerful metaphor for how we sometimes allow the enemy to dictate our lives. We need to reclaim our spiritual blacksmiths—those who know how to forge weapons in the spirit, who know how to pray, and who can teach the next generation.

Jonathan, the son of Saul, decided to take action. He didn't wait for a perfect sign from God; he moved forward with a "perhaps" faith. He said to his armor bearer, "Come, let us go over to the outpost of those uncircumcised men. Perhaps the Lord will act on our behalf" (1 Samuel 14:6). This kind of faith is what we need today. We can't sit back and wait for everything to be perfect. We need to move forward, trusting that God will act on our behalf.

Jonathan's armor bearer responded with, "Do all that you have in mind. I am with you, heart and soul" (1 Samuel 14:7). This is the kind of support we need from each other. We need to be with each other, heart and soul, especially when the journey gets tough. Jonathan and his armor bearer climbed up to the Philistine outpost, using their hands and feet, and God gave them victory. This story teaches us that we need to put feet to our faith and take action.

Saul, on the other hand, was sitting under a pomegranate tree, sulking and doing nothing. He was sitting where he should have been standing. He was surrounded by people who were not helping him move forward in his calling. Bad company corrupts great callings. We need to be mindful of who we surround ourselves with because it matters who we sit with, who we talk with, and who we battle with.

We also need to recognize that sacred things are reserved for certain people. Jonathan didn't tell his father about his plan because he knew Saul would discourage him. Some of us need to stop sharing our God-given dreams with people who will only discourage us. Sacred things are for certain people who will support and encourage us.

Finally, we need to trust our swords. The Israelites had allowed the enemy to take their blacksmiths, but Jonathan trusted the sword in his hand. He knew that no weapon formed against him would prosper. We need to reclaim our spiritual blacksmiths and trust the weapons God has given us.

In conclusion, we are in a miraculous season, and God is inviting us to be a part of His story. We need to recognize the small miracles, reclaim our spiritual blacksmiths, move forward with "perhaps" faith, surround ourselves with the right people, and trust the weapons God has given us. Let's climb the mountain together, using our hands and feet, and see the victory God has in store for us.

### Key Takeaways

1. Recognize the Small Miracles: Often, we overlook the small miracles in our lives because we are so focused on the big things. The simple act of breathing is a miracle in itself. By shifting our perspective, we can see that God is always at work, even in the smallest details of our lives. [01:14]

2. Reclaim Our Spiritual Blacksmiths: The Israelites had to go to their enemies to get their tools sharpened, paying a premium for it. This is a metaphor for how we sometimes allow the enemy to dictate our lives. We need to reclaim our spiritual blacksmiths—those who know how to forge weapons in the spirit, who know how to pray, and who can teach the next generation. [08:08]

3. Move Forward with "Perhaps" Faith: Jonathan didn't wait for a perfect sign from God; he moved forward with a "perhaps" faith. He said, "Perhaps the Lord will act on our behalf." This kind of faith is what we need today. We can't sit back and wait for everything to be perfect. We need to move forward, trusting that God will act on our behalf. [09:34]

4. Surround Yourself with the Right People: Bad company corrupts great callings. We need to be mindful of who we surround ourselves with because it matters who we sit with, who we talk with, and who we battle with. Jonathan's armor bearer was with him, heart and soul, and this kind of support is crucial for our journey. [27:16]

5. Trust the Weapons God Has Given Us: The Israelites had allowed the enemy to take their blacksmiths, but Jonathan trusted the sword in his hand. He knew that no weapon formed against him would prosper. We need to reclaim our spiritual blacksmiths and trust the weapons God has given us. [42:57]

### YouTube Chapters

1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [01:14] - Recognize the Small Miracles
3. [08:08] - Reclaim Our Spiritual Blacksmiths
4. [09:34] - Move Forward with "Perhaps" Faith
5. [27:16] - Surround Yourself with the Right People
6. [42:57] - Trust the Weapons God Has Given Us

Study Guide

### Bible Reading
1. 1 Samuel 13:19-22: "Not a blacksmith could be found in the whole land of Israel, because the Philistines had said, 'Otherwise the Hebrews will make swords or spears!' So all Israel went down to the Philistines to have their plow points, mattocks, axes and sickles sharpened. The price was two-thirds of a shekel for sharpening plow points and mattocks, and a third of a shekel for sharpening forks and axes and for repointing goads. So on the day of the battle not a soldier with Saul and Jonathan had a sword or spear in his hand; only Saul and his son Jonathan had them."
2. 1 Samuel 14:6-7: "Jonathan said to his young armor-bearer, 'Come, let’s go over to the outpost of those uncircumcised men. Perhaps the Lord will act in our behalf. Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few.' 'Do all that you have in mind,' his armor-bearer said. 'Go ahead; I am with you heart and soul.'"
3. Isaiah 54:17: "No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me, declares the Lord."

### Observation Questions
1. What was the situation with the blacksmiths in Israel according to 1 Samuel 13:19-22?
2. How did Jonathan demonstrate his faith in 1 Samuel 14:6-7?
3. What promise does Isaiah 54:17 give to the servants of the Lord?
4. In the sermon, what was the significance of Jonathan's armor-bearer's response to him? ([09:34])

### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think the Philistines took away the blacksmiths from Israel? How does this relate to spiritual warfare in our lives today? ([08:08])
2. What does Jonathan's "perhaps" faith teach us about taking action even when we are uncertain of the outcome? ([09:34])
3. How can the promise in Isaiah 54:17 encourage us when we face challenges and opposition?
4. The sermon mentioned that bad company corrupts great callings. How can we identify and distance ourselves from relationships that hinder our spiritual growth? ([27:16])

### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a small miracle in your life that you may have overlooked. How can you cultivate a habit of recognizing and appreciating these small miracles daily? ([01:14])
2. Are there areas in your life where you have allowed the "enemy" to dictate terms, similar to how the Israelites had to go to the Philistines to sharpen their tools? How can you reclaim control in these areas? ([08:08])
3. Jonathan moved forward with "perhaps" faith. Is there a situation in your life where you need to take a step of faith despite uncertainty? What would that look like for you? ([09:34])
4. Think about the people you surround yourself with. Are they helping you move forward in your calling, or are they holding you back? What changes might you need to make in your relationships? ([27:16])
5. Jonathan trusted the sword in his hand, knowing that no weapon formed against him would prosper. What "weapons" or resources has God given you that you need to trust more fully? ([42:57])
6. The sermon emphasized the importance of putting feet to our faith. What is one specific action you can take this week to move forward in your faith journey? ([12:22])
7. Sacred things are reserved for certain people. Are there God-given dreams or plans you need to protect by sharing them only with supportive and encouraging people? How can you discern who these people are in your life? ([33:31])

Devotional

Day 1: Recognize the Small Miracles

Description: Often, we overlook the small miracles in our lives because we are so focused on the big things. The simple act of breathing is a miracle in itself. By shifting our perspective, we can see that God is always at work, even in the smallest details of our lives. We need to cultivate an awareness of these small miracles and give thanks for them. This shift in perspective can transform our daily lives, filling us with gratitude and a deeper sense of God's presence.

In our busy lives, it's easy to miss the small ways God is working. We might be looking for grand signs or significant changes, but God often speaks in whispers and works in the mundane. By recognizing and appreciating these small miracles, we can develop a more intimate relationship with God and a greater appreciation for His constant presence in our lives. [01:14]

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: What small miracle can you recognize and give thanks for today? How can this awareness change your perspective on your daily life?


Day 2: Reclaim Our Spiritual Blacksmiths

Description: The Israelites had to go to their enemies to get their tools sharpened, paying a premium for it. This is a metaphor for how we sometimes allow the enemy to dictate our lives. We need to reclaim our spiritual blacksmiths—those who know how to forge weapons in the spirit, who know how to pray, and who can teach the next generation. By doing so, we can equip ourselves and others to stand firm in our faith and resist the enemy's influence.

Reclaiming our spiritual blacksmiths means investing in relationships with those who can mentor us in our spiritual journey. It also means becoming spiritual blacksmiths ourselves, learning to pray fervently, study the Word deeply, and pass on these skills to others. This is crucial for the health and growth of our spiritual community. [08:08]

Ephesians 6:10-11 (ESV): "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil."

Reflection: Who are the spiritual blacksmiths in your life? How can you learn from them and also become a spiritual blacksmith for others?


Day 3: Move Forward with "Perhaps" Faith

Description: Jonathan didn't wait for a perfect sign from God; he moved forward with a "perhaps" faith. He said, "Perhaps the Lord will act on our behalf." This kind of faith is what we need today. We can't sit back and wait for everything to be perfect. We need to move forward, trusting that God will act on our behalf. This proactive faith requires courage and trust in God's sovereignty and goodness.

"Perhaps" faith is about taking steps even when the outcome is uncertain. It's about believing that God is with us and will guide us, even if we don't have all the answers. This kind of faith can lead to incredible breakthroughs and victories in our lives, as we step out in obedience and trust. [09:34]

Hebrews 11:8 (ESV): "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going."

Reflection: What is one area in your life where you need to exercise "perhaps" faith? What step can you take today to move forward in trust and obedience?


Day 4: Surround Yourself with the Right People

Description: Bad company corrupts great callings. We need to be mindful of who we surround ourselves with because it matters who we sit with, who we talk with, and who we battle with. Jonathan's armor bearer was with him, heart and soul, and this kind of support is crucial for our journey. Surrounding ourselves with the right people can provide the encouragement, accountability, and strength we need to fulfill our God-given callings.

Choosing the right companions is essential for spiritual growth and perseverance. We need people who will support us, challenge us, and walk with us through difficult times. These relationships can make a significant difference in our ability to stay faithful and pursue God's purposes for our lives. [27:16]

Proverbs 13:20 (ESV): "Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm."

Reflection: Who are the people in your life that support and encourage your spiritual journey? How can you invest more in these relationships and distance yourself from negative influences?


Day 5: Trust the Weapons God Has Given Us

Description: The Israelites had allowed the enemy to take their blacksmiths, but Jonathan trusted the sword in his hand. He knew that no weapon formed against him would prosper. We need to reclaim our spiritual blacksmiths and trust the weapons God has given us. This means having confidence in the spiritual tools and resources God has provided, such as prayer, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit.

Trusting the weapons God has given us involves recognizing their power and using them effectively. It means standing firm in our faith and not allowing the enemy to undermine our confidence. By relying on God's provision and strength, we can face any challenge and overcome any obstacle. [42:57]

2 Corinthians 10:4 (ESV): "For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds."

Reflection: What spiritual weapons has God given you? How can you use them more effectively in your daily battles and challenges?

Quotes

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "Some of you have been touched by God so much in the upper room that there's nothing left to feel. It's time for you to pour out. Some of you are full to the brim, you're walking around swollen and bloated in the spirit. Oh, what am I gonna do? You want to know what you need to do? Start pouring out on this city. Start being love with skin on it. Start being that voice of truth. Quit looking at sickness saying I wish God would do something. Grab them, pour a little olive oil and say by the blood of Jesus you are healed." [13:25]( | | )

2. "You can either make excuses or you can make progress, but you can't make both. You can either make excuses about, well, you'll never walk in purity, or you can either walk in purity, but you can't do both. You can make excuses while you're always going to be dead, while you're never going to have breakthrough, while you're always going to be trying to find two pennies in your brother's pocket. You can either make excuses while you're or you can move in progress knowing that God will give you wisdom." [05:26]( | | )

3. "Some of us, the greatest thing you could do from this sermon is go home and sever some relationships. Still be kind, but quit letting them tell you how to raise your kids. Quit letting them tell you how you need to love your spouse. Quit telling them tell you how they need to manage your finances while you give them 20 bucks. Like, quit allowing them to give you wisdom that is foolish. Because there's some people, they're good in one season, but they're not good for this season." [29:11]( | | )

4. "If you seek your safety, you'll never find it. But if you seek your Savior, you'll find safety in everything that you could ever desire. Why? Because that's what our Jesus does. It's what he does. And the invitation of welcome to the miracle is not just a disposition of us to sit on our hind ends and receive what God has, but rather to get up, stand on the word of God and move forward in what he's called us to do." [04:05]( | | )

5. "Some of you need to start living like that. Instead of being like, I don't think it will work out. Start going, I think it may work out. Let's call. Let's try. Let's apply. Let's do. The worst that could happen is you're in the same situation. The best that could happen and will happen is you'll see the breakthrough you've actually been praying about." [35:30]( | | )

### Quotes for Members

1. "Jonathan understood that sacred things are reserved for certain people. When Jonathan's about to go to war, he says, don't tell my father. Why? Because he understood that he wasn't about to take the pearl of his calling and throw it among the swine. Some of you need to quit talking to the wrong people. You're telling people the God dream that God has put in your heart. You're giving it in infant form. And I don't mean to be crass, but you're giving it to people that are aborting the God dream in you." [33:31]( | | )

2. "The Israelites had to go to their enemies to get their tools sharpened, paying a premium for it. This is a metaphor for how we sometimes allow the enemy to dictate our lives. We need to reclaim our spiritual blacksmiths—those who know how to forge weapons in the spirit, who know how to pray, and who can teach the next generation." [08:08]( | | )

3. "Jonathan didn't wait for a perfect sign from God; he moved forward with a 'perhaps' faith. He said, 'Perhaps the Lord will act on our behalf.' This kind of faith is what we need today. We can't sit back and wait for everything to be perfect. We need to move forward, trusting that God will act on our behalf." [09:34]( | | )

4. "Bad company corrupts great callings. It matters who you sit with in this life. It matters who you talk with. It matters about the season you're going through. It matters who you battle with. It matters who you pray with. There's some people that got some things on their life. I don't want them praying for me because I don't want that to transfer me." [27:16]( | | )

5. "The weapon will be formed against you in your life. The weapon will be formed against your health. It will be formed against your children. It will be formed against your mind, your anxiety, your depression, your blood pressure, your heart. It will be formed against you. But can I tell you, it will be formed, but it will not prosper. It will not prosper. And some of you see it formed and just sit down and don't even fight. But what you realize is you already got the sword in your hand." [45:03]( | | )

6. "We need blacksmiths. We need people that are willing. We need to get sweaty and dirty for the things of God, to fight in the spirit, to be a voice of encouragement, to call a friend. Not just say, I hope the church figures it out. I hope pastor can understand. God, I hope you bless them. No, no, no. That's someone else say, I'm blessed to be a blessing and I'm going to walk in it today." [41:36]( | | )

7. "Jonathan climbed up using his hands and his feet which I think is very funny scripture said that I don't know how else you climb a mountain but God bless you if you know how to do that and with his armor bearer right behind him. Oh wait a second I do know why you said that because for some of us in this room God's been calling us to climb up but you're not climbing because you're not using your hands and your feet you're waiting there hoping the Lord's going to pick you up like a child but you can't go to the high places as a child that drank milk." [12:22]( | | )

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Transcript
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