Empowered by Prayer: Living in God's Strength
Summary
### Summary
In today's sermon, we explored the profound truth that each step we take in our spiritual journey frees us from the burden of sin. This freedom is not just a one-time event but a continuous process that requires us to rely on God's strength. We delved into the importance of prayer as the primary source of our strength, emphasizing that when we face life's challenges, our first response should be to bow our knees in prayer. We also discussed the presence of God's strength in our lives, which is manifested through the Holy Spirit. This divine presence empowers us to live out our faith and bear fruit for God's kingdom.
We examined the premise of our strength, which is rooted in faith and grounded in love. Faith in God's Word and His promises provides a solid foundation for our spiritual strength. We were reminded that our relationship with God's Word directly impacts our ability to stand firm in our faith. Additionally, we explored the promise of God's strength, which assures us that He can do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think. This promise encourages us to trust in God's limitless power and to step out in faith, even when we feel unequipped.
Finally, we considered the purpose of God's strength in our lives, which is to bring glory to Him. When we rely on God's strength, the outcomes in our lives become testimonies of His power and grace. This not only strengthens our faith but also serves as a witness to others of God's mighty works. We were encouraged to seek God's strength daily, to trust in His promises, and to live in a way that brings glory to His name.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Prayer: Prayer is the primary source of our spiritual strength. When we face challenges, our first response should be to bow our knees in prayer, seeking God's guidance and strength. This act of humility and dependence on God opens the door for His divine intervention in our lives. [49:35]
2. The Presence of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is the presence of God's strength in our lives. It empowers us to live out our faith, bear fruit, and stand firm against the challenges we face. Without the Holy Spirit, we can do nothing of eternal significance. [55:46]
3. Faith and Love as Foundations: Our spiritual strength is rooted in faith and grounded in love. Faith in God's Word and His promises provides a solid foundation, while love motivates us to live in a way that pleases God. This combination enables us to comprehend the vastness of God's love and to be filled with His fullness. [56:46]
4. God's Limitless Power: God can do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think. This promise encourages us to trust in His limitless power and to step out in faith, even when we feel unequipped. God's strength is made perfect in our weakness, and He equips us for every good work. [01:07:52]
5. Living for God's Glory: The ultimate purpose of God's strength in our lives is to bring glory to Him. When we rely on God's strength, the outcomes in our lives become testimonies of His power and grace. This not only strengthens our faith but also serves as a witness to others of God's mighty works. [01:10:44]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[17:23] - Introduction: Freedom from Sin
[27:57] - The Continuous Journey
[40:03] - The Role of Prayer
[40:51] - The Presence of the Holy Spirit
[42:46] - Faith and Love as Foundations
[43:41] - God's Limitless Power
[44:38] - Living for God's Glory
[45:42] - The Power of Faith
[46:52] - The Place of Strength
[47:43] - The Need for Strength
[48:26] - The Role of Prayer in Strength
[48:59] - The Throne of Grace
[49:35] - The Power of Prayer
[50:08] - Spiritual Strength
[50:39] - The Importance of God's Word
[51:24] - The Presence of God
[52:00] - Strength in God's Presence
[52:34] - The Presence of Strength
[53:05] - Abiding in Christ
[53:32] - The Necessity of God's Strength
[54:10] - The Role of Prayer in Family
[54:38] - Interceding for Others
[55:13] - The Holy Spirit's Role
[55:46] - Boldness in the Spirit
[56:14] - Faith as the Premise of Strength
[56:46] - Rooted and Grounded in Love
[57:18] - Spiritual Growth in the Church
[57:48] - The Role of Church Leaders
[58:19] - Preaching the Word
[58:57] - The Foundation of God's Word
[59:35] - The Promises of God's Word
[01:00:09] - The Way of Salvation
[01:00:44] - The Place of Strength
[01:01:18] - God's Written Word
[01:01:52] - Step-by-Step Guidance
[01:02:30] - Leaning on Faith
[01:02:59] - The Love of Christ
[01:03:30] - The Indescribable Love of God
[01:04:04] - Nothing Can Separate Us from God's Love
[01:04:43] - Assurance of Salvation
[01:05:27] - The Strength of God's Love
[01:06:07] - The Power of God's Love
[01:06:50] - God's Love for Others
[01:07:52] - The Promise of God's Strength
[01:09:07] - God's Miraculous Power
[01:10:44] - The Purpose of God's Strength
[01:12:04] - Faith in God's Power
[01:13:25] - Trusting God's Plan
[01:14:50] - Stepping Out in Faith
[01:16:28] - The Need for God's Strength
[01:18:02] - Bringing Glory to God
[01:19:05] - Invitation to Respond
[01:22:48] - Announcements and Closing
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Ephesians 3:14-21 (Primary Text)
2. Hebrews 4:14-16
3. John 15:4-5
### Observation Questions
1. According to Ephesians 3:14-21, what does Paul pray for the believers in Ephesus? How does he describe the source of their strength?
2. In Hebrews 4:14-16, what invitation is extended to believers, and what are they encouraged to seek in times of need?
3. John 15:4-5 emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ. What does Jesus say about the relationship between the vine and the branches, and what is the result of this relationship?
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3:14-21 reflect the continuous need for God’s strength in a believer’s life? [46:52]
2. What does it mean to come boldly before the throne of grace as described in Hebrews 4:14-16, and how does this relate to seeking God’s strength in prayer? [48:59]
3. In John 15:4-5, Jesus states that apart from Him, we can do nothing. How does this statement shape our understanding of spiritual strength and dependence on God? [53:32]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent challenge you faced. Did you turn to prayer as your first response? How can you make prayer a more immediate reaction in future challenges? [49:35]
2. The sermon emphasized the presence of the Holy Spirit as the source of our strength. How can you become more aware of and reliant on the Holy Spirit in your daily life? [55:46]
3. Faith and love are described as the foundations of our spiritual strength. How can you cultivate a deeper faith in God’s Word and a greater love for others this week? [56:46]
4. God’s limitless power means He can do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think. Can you recall a time when God exceeded your expectations? How does this encourage you to trust Him more? [01:07:52]
5. The ultimate purpose of God’s strength in our lives is to bring glory to Him. What specific actions can you take this week to ensure that your life is a testimony to God’s power and grace? [01:10:44]
6. The sermon mentioned the importance of being rooted and grounded in love. Identify one person in your life who needs to experience God’s love through you. What practical steps can you take to show them love this week? [56:46]
7. How can you incorporate the practice of seeking God’s strength daily into your routine? What changes might you need to make to prioritize this in your life? [01:16:28]
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Prayer
Prayer is the primary source of our spiritual strength. When we face challenges, our first response should be to bow our knees in prayer, seeking God's guidance and strength. This act of humility and dependence on God opens the door for His divine intervention in our lives. Prayer is not just a ritual but a lifeline that connects us to the Creator, who is always ready to listen and respond to our needs. It is through prayer that we acknowledge our limitations and invite God's limitless power into our circumstances.
In moments of difficulty, prayer becomes our refuge and strength. It is in these moments that we experience the peace that surpasses all understanding, knowing that God is in control. By making prayer our first response, we demonstrate our trust in God's sovereignty and His ability to work all things for our good. Let us cultivate a habit of turning to God in prayer, not just in times of trouble but in every aspect of our lives. [49:35]
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: Think of a current challenge you are facing. How can you make prayer your first response to this situation today?
Day 2: The Presence of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is the presence of God's strength in our lives. It empowers us to live out our faith, bear fruit, and stand firm against the challenges we face. Without the Holy Spirit, we can do nothing of eternal significance. The Holy Spirit is our helper, comforter, and guide, leading us into all truth and enabling us to live a life that honors God. It is through the Holy Spirit that we receive the power to overcome sin and to walk in righteousness.
The presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives is a testament to God's commitment to us. It is a reminder that we are never alone and that we have access to divine strength at all times. As we yield to the Holy Spirit, we experience transformation and growth in our spiritual journey. Let us seek to be continually filled with the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to lead and empower us in every area of our lives. [55:46]
John 14:26 (ESV): "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you."
Reflection: In what ways can you invite the Holy Spirit to guide and empower you in your daily life today?
Day 3: Faith and Love as Foundations
Our spiritual strength is rooted in faith and grounded in love. Faith in God's Word and His promises provides a solid foundation, while love motivates us to live in a way that pleases God. This combination enables us to comprehend the vastness of God's love and to be filled with His fullness. Faith and love are inseparable in the Christian walk; one cannot exist without the other. Faith gives us the assurance of things hoped for, while love compels us to act on that faith in tangible ways.
When we are rooted and grounded in love, we are able to grasp the depth, breadth, length, and height of God's love for us. This understanding transforms our lives and empowers us to love others as Christ loves us. Let us strive to deepen our faith and to let love be the driving force behind all our actions. [56:46]
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 demonstrate God's love to someone in your life today, motivated by your faith in His promises?
Day 4: God's Limitless Power
God can do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think. This promise encourages us to trust in His limitless power and to step out in faith, even when we feel unequipped. God's strength is made perfect in our weakness, and He equips us for every good work. When we rely on our own abilities, we limit what God can do through us. However, when we trust in His power, we open ourselves to the miraculous and the extraordinary.
God's power is not confined by our limitations or circumstances. He is able to do far more than we can imagine, and His plans for us are always for our good. Let us have the courage to step out in faith, trusting that God will provide the strength and resources we need to accomplish His purposes. [01:07:52]
Ephesians 3:20-21 (ESV): "Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you feel unequipped? How can you step out in faith, trusting in God's limitless power today?
Day 5: Living for God's Glory
The ultimate purpose of God's strength in our lives is to bring glory to Him. When we rely on God's strength, the outcomes in our lives become testimonies of His power and grace. This not only strengthens our faith but also serves as a witness to others of God's mighty works. Our lives are meant to reflect God's glory, and this happens when we live in dependence on Him and allow His strength to work through us.
Living for God's glory means that our actions, decisions, and attitudes are all aimed at honoring Him. It is a life of worship, where every aspect of our being is dedicated to making His name known. Let us seek to glorify God in all that we do, trusting that He will use our lives as a testament to His greatness. [01:10:44]
1 Peter 4:11 (ESV): "Whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."
Reflection: How can you intentionally live in a way that brings glory to God today, in both your actions and your attitudes?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "When you face that struggle of life, what you need more than anything is to hear from God. Remember Elijah when he was ready to quit, ready to give up? He had been there on Mount Carmel. I mean, he just had one of his great victories, one of those great victories of God. And God had sent fire down from heaven and consumed the sacrifice that was on the altar." [51:24] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "There is a strength that one finds in God's presence. There's a strength that one finds in a certain place, and it's in their time before the Lord. It's good to encourage one another. It's good to provoke. It's good to provoke one another. It's good to spend time among God's people and to find that strength that's found there." [52:00] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "It's not an extra cup of coffee. It's not a five-hour energy. It's not a monster drink, right? It is getting a hold of God and seeing him move. In our heart and our life. What is it that will make you keep going before the Lord in the face of great struggle? His Holy Spirit." [55:13] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "It's okay to step out into a place that you don't feel qualified because if you feel qualified, it's probably going to be able to be attributed to you. Can I tell you, this is a parent. If your children step out and do something for the Lord and you as a parent say, I don't really think that's what they're good at or equipped for. But they find God's leading, kick them into it." [01:13:25] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You want physical strength? Hit the gym tomorrow. You want spiritual strength? Hit your knees tomorrow. Run to the word tomorrow. Trust in his love tomorrow. Lean on his promise tomorrow. And bring God glory tomorrow. I will tell you, if you don't do those things, spiritual weakness is what's there." [01:16:28] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "I think there's some truths in this passage scripture that call us to how we may find that that strengthening hand of God that when we face those moments when the flesh is weak and the spirit the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak and the spirit is Bless His Week, where we find the Spirit of God, the strengthening hand of God in our life." [45:42] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Faith come. Faith by hearing and hearing by the word of God. This element, this premise, this rock solid foundation of the strength of God comes from a firm faith in what he has written in his word. Firm, growing faith in what God has said. It's a strengthening element, how God strengthens us in our life when I can say it is written. It is written. This is what God has said." [58:19] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The promises of God's word and the doctrines of that book are directly related to the Christian strength. And your commitment to that word will impact your strength to stand. Your relationship with that book will determine it all. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word. A word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee." [01:00:09] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "I believe this, friend. There is a place you go to find God's strength. It is on your knees before God. It is on your knees before him. It is on your knees before him. It is on our knees, that place of strength and that presence of God that stirs in our life as we run to his word and get that rock-solid premise of this, this foundation to our strength." [01:00:44] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And why does he do that? So that at the end of the day, we can look back and we can say, look what God has done. Look what God has done. I don't want to come to the end of my life and look back and say, look what Seth Hahn has done. I remember this day. It was on the grow road in Marion, Indiana, around the corner from my parents' house." [01:12:04] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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