Finding Faith and Hope in Life's Disruptions

 

Summary

In our recent gathering, I had the unique opportunity to sit down with my four children—Crystal, Priscilla, Anthony Jr., and Jonathan—to discuss our collaborative project, "Divine Disruption." This endeavor is deeply personal, born out of our shared experiences of loss and heartache, particularly the passing of my wife and their mother. We have faced a series of trials that have tested our faith and resilience, and through this project, we aim to share our journey and the lessons we've learned.

Our conversation delved into the raw emotions and questions that arise when life doesn't go as planned. We discussed the disappointment and confusion that can accompany such times, especially when it feels like God is silent or distant. Yet, we also explored the profound ways in which our faith has been strengthened. We have learned that it's okay to ask God questions without questioning His character. This distinction has allowed us to be honest with God about our struggles while still holding onto our faith.

One of the most significant insights we've gained is the importance of finding God's mercy in unexpected places. Even in the midst of our pain, we've seen His hand at work, providing comfort and strength in ways we couldn't have imagined. This journey has taught us to look beyond our immediate circumstances and trust in God's greater plan, even when we don't understand it.

As a family, we've been reminded of the power of community and the importance of supporting one another. The faith of my children and the legacy of their mother have been sources of strength for me. We've learned that holding onto faith means trusting in God's promises, even when life breaks our hearts. This project is our way of sharing that hope with others, encouraging them to find God in their own disruptions and to hold onto faith when life is hard.

Key Takeaways:

- Faith Beyond Feelings: It's crucial to have a faith that is deeper than our feelings. When emotions run high, they can overshadow our faith, but a steadfast belief in God's character can anchor us through life's storms. [03:42]

- The Power of Honest Questions: Asking God questions is different from questioning His character. This distinction allows us to be honest with God about our struggles without feeling guilty, fostering a deeper relationship with Him. [07:43]

- Finding Mercy in Unexpected Places: Even in the darkest times, God's mercy can be found in unexpected places. This requires us to look beyond our immediate pain and trust in His greater plan, finding comfort in His presence. [09:05]

- The Legacy of Faith: The faith of those who have gone before us can be a source of strength. The legacy of a faithful life, like that of my wife, reminds us that our current struggles are temporary and that there is a greater celebration to come. [17:32]

- Trusting God's Unconditional Will: When we've done all we can, we must trust in God's unconditional will. This means accepting that some things are beyond our control and that God's plans are ultimately for our good, even when we don't understand them. [24:39]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:42] - Introduction to Divine Disruption
- [01:09] - The Reality of Life's Trials
- [02:07] - Initial Reactions to Loss
- [03:14] - Disappointment and Faith
- [04:14] - Experiencing God's Presence
- [05:03] - Asking Questions Without Doubt
- [06:06] - The Holy Spirit's Strength
- [07:30] - Distinguishing Questions from Doubt
- [08:11] - Finding Mercy in Hard Times
- [09:28] - Personal Reflections on Grief
- [11:16] - Trusting God's Plan
- [12:38] - Balancing Expectancy and Reality
- [14:10] - Faith in the Midst of Trials
- [15:21] - Unique Perspectives on Faith
- [17:32] - The Legacy of a Faithful Life
- [19:31] - Holding Onto Belief
- [21:29] - A Family's Final Moments
- [23:25] - Accepting God's Will
- [25:06] - Doing the Right Thing
- [26:21] - Conclusion and Hope

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Divine Disruption

Bible Reading:
1. Habakkuk 1:2-4 - "How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, 'Violence!' but you do not save?"
2. Isaiah 40:28-31 - "Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom."
3. Psalm 91 - "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty."

Observation Questions:
1. What were some of the raw emotions and questions discussed by the family during their journey of loss and heartache? [02:21]
2. How did the family distinguish between asking God questions and questioning His character? [07:30]
3. What analogy did Anthony use to describe his experience of God's presence during difficult times? [04:28]
4. How did the family find God's mercy in unexpected places during their trials? [09:05]

Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the distinction between asking God questions and questioning His character help in maintaining faith during difficult times? [07:43]
2. In what ways did the family experience the Holy Spirit's presence and strength during their trials? [06:44]
3. How does the legacy of faith from those who have gone before us provide strength and hope in current struggles? [17:32]
4. What does it mean to trust in God's unconditional will, and how can this trust be developed? [24:39]

Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you felt disappointed or confused by God. How did you handle those emotions, and what might you do differently now? [02:33]
2. Consider a current struggle in your life. How can you distinguish between asking God questions and questioning His character in this situation? [07:43]
3. Identify a moment when you experienced God's mercy in an unexpected place. How did that change your perspective on your circumstances? [09:05]
4. Think about someone whose faith has been a source of strength for you. How can you honor their legacy in your own faith journey? [17:32]
5. What steps can you take to trust in God's greater plan, even when you don't understand it? How can you remind yourself of His promises during challenging times? [24:39]
6. How can you support someone in your community who is going through a difficult time, drawing from your own experiences of receiving support? [06:29]
7. Reflect on a specific area in your life where you need to trust in God's unconditional will. What practical steps can you take to surrender control and trust in His plan? [24:39]

Devotional

Day 1: Faith Anchored in God's Character
In times of emotional turmoil, it is easy for feelings to overshadow faith. However, a steadfast belief in God's character can serve as an anchor through life's storms. When emotions run high, they can cloud judgment and lead to doubt. Yet, faith that is rooted in the understanding of God's unchanging nature provides stability. This kind of faith goes beyond mere feelings and is built on the assurance of God's promises and His unwavering love. By focusing on who God is, rather than how we feel, we can navigate life's challenges with confidence and peace. [03:42]

Jeremiah 17:7-8 (ESV): "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."

Reflection: What specific aspect of God's character can you focus on today to help anchor your faith amidst your current emotional challenges?


Day 2: The Courage to Ask Honest Questions
Asking God questions is a natural part of a faith journey, especially during times of struggle. It is important to distinguish between questioning God's character and seeking understanding through honest questions. This distinction allows believers to express their struggles and doubts without guilt, fostering a deeper relationship with God. By bringing questions to God, individuals can find clarity and peace, knowing that God welcomes their inquiries and desires to provide wisdom and guidance. This openness leads to a more authentic and resilient faith. [07:43]

James 1:5 (ESV): "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him."

Reflection: What is one question you have been hesitant to bring to God? How can you approach Him with it today, trusting in His wisdom and understanding?


Day 3: Discovering Mercy in Unexpected Places
Even in the darkest times, God's mercy can be found in unexpected places. This requires looking beyond immediate pain and trusting in God's greater plan. By seeking His presence and comfort, individuals can find strength and hope in the midst of suffering. God's mercy often manifests in ways that are not immediately apparent, but with faith and patience, it becomes evident. This journey of discovery encourages believers to remain open to God's work in their lives, even when circumstances seem bleak. [09:05]

Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV): "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

Reflection: Can you identify a recent situation where you experienced God's mercy in an unexpected way? How can this awareness shape your perspective on current challenges?


Day 4: The Strength of a Faithful Legacy
The faith of those who have gone before us can be a profound source of strength. The legacy of a faithful life serves as a reminder that current struggles are temporary and that there is a greater celebration to come. By reflecting on the lives of those who have demonstrated unwavering faith, individuals can find encouragement and motivation to persevere. This legacy inspires believers to live faithfully, knowing that their own lives can impact future generations in meaningful ways. [17:32]

Hebrews 12:1 (ESV): "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us."

Reflection: Who in your life has left a legacy of faith that inspires you? How can you honor their legacy in your own faith journey today?


Day 5: Trusting in God's Unconditional Will
When faced with circumstances beyond control, it is essential to trust in God's unconditional will. This means accepting that some things are beyond human understanding and that God's plans are ultimately for good. By surrendering control and trusting in God's sovereignty, individuals can find peace and assurance, even when life is confusing or painful. This trust is not passive but involves actively seeking God's guidance and aligning one's life with His purposes. [24:39]

Proverbs 19:21 (ESV): "Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you struggle to trust God's will? How can you take a step today to surrender this area to Him, trusting in His greater plan?

Quotes

"Even in the darkest times, God's mercy can be found in unexpected places. This requires us to look beyond our immediate pain and trust in His greater plan, finding comfort in His presence. It's crucial to have a faith that is deeper than our feelings. When emotions run high, they can overshadow our faith, but a steadfast belief in God's character can anchor us through life's storms." [00:03:14]

"One of the most significant insights we've gained is the importance of finding God's mercy in unexpected places. Even in the midst of our pain, we've seen His hand at work, providing comfort and strength in ways we couldn't have imagined. This journey has taught us to look beyond our immediate circumstances and trust in God's greater plan, even when we don't understand it." [00:09:05]

"Asking God questions is different from questioning His character. This distinction allows us to be honest with God about our struggles without feeling guilty, fostering a deeper relationship with Him. It's okay to ask God why; it's not okay to challenge God with the why." [00:07:43]

"Faith Beyond Feelings: It's crucial to have a faith that is deeper than our feelings. When emotions run high, they can overshadow our faith, but a steadfast belief in God's character can anchor us through life's storms." [00:03:42]

"The Legacy of Faith: The faith of those who have gone before us can be a source of strength. The legacy of a faithful life, like that of my wife, reminds us that our current struggles are temporary and that there is a greater celebration to come." [00:17:32]

"Trusting God's Unconditional Will: When we've done all we can, we must trust in God's unconditional will. This means accepting that some things are beyond our control and that God's plans are ultimately for our good, even when we don't understand them." [00:24:39]

"Through all this, what I've experienced is God holding on to me in a way that I would have never experienced otherwise. I don't want to go through this ever again. I want all of our family members back, but if you read the instruction manual in your car and you hear about the safety features and how the seat belts work and how the airbags work, that's one thing." [00:05:03]

"Finding Mercy in Unexpected Places: Even in the darkest times, God's mercy can be found in unexpected places. This requires us to look beyond our immediate pain and trust in His greater plan, finding comfort in His presence." [00:09:28]

"The Power of Honest Questions: Asking God questions is different from questioning His character. This distinction allows us to be honest with God about our struggles without feeling guilty, fostering a deeper relationship with Him." [00:07:30]

"Faith Beyond Feelings: It's crucial to have a faith that is deeper than our feelings. When emotions run high, they can overshadow our faith, but a steadfast belief in God's character can anchor us through life's storms." [00:03:42]

"The Legacy of Faith: The faith of those who have gone before us can be a source of strength. The legacy of a faithful life, like that of my wife, reminds us that our current struggles are temporary and that there is a greater celebration to come." [00:17:32]

"Trusting God's Unconditional Will: When we've done all we can, we must trust in God's unconditional will. This means accepting that some things are beyond our control and that God's plans are ultimately for our good, even when we don't understand them." [00:24:39]

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Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?