Finding Hope and Growth in Life's Disruptions
Summary
### Summary
Good morning and Happy Palm Sunday! Today, I want to share about our recent trip to Cuba, where seven of us from New Hope visited our three sister churches. The economic and political conditions in Cuba have deteriorated significantly, with food scarcity, minimal rations, and rolling blackouts. Despite these hardships, the church is growing, and people are leaning on God with hope and joy in Jesus Christ. This trip underscored the theme of disruptions and how God uses them to produce fruit in our lives.
We have been discussing how Jesus often performed miracles and taught profound lessons during interruptions. His work was in the disruptions, and this trip to Cuba was a disruption for us, but it bore much fruit. We saw God at work, witnessed miracles, and experienced true revival. This brings us to the story of Palm Sunday, where Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on a donkey fulfilled the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9. The donkey's owner experienced a significant disruption, yet it allowed Jesus to make a powerful statement about His kingship.
Reflecting on our time in Cuba and the Palm Sunday story, I realized that God often calls us to do things that disrupt our lives. These disruptions, whether they are financial, time-consuming, or physically draining, lead to tremendous blessings and fruit for God's kingdom. We are called to respond to these disruptions with faith and trust in God, knowing that He will provide and produce fruit through our obedience.
In Cuba, we saw how the severe disruptions in people's lives led them to seek God more fervently. Thousands are accepting Jesus, and true revival is happening. This teaches us that God can use even the most challenging disruptions for His glory. Romans 8:28 reminds us that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him. So, let us respond to disruptions with praise and trust, knowing that God will use them for His purposes.
### Key Takeaways
1. Hope and Joy in Adversity: Despite the severe economic and political hardships in Cuba, the church is growing, and people are finding hope and joy in Jesus Christ. This teaches us that true joy and hope are found in Christ, not in our circumstances. When we lean on God, we can rejoice even in the midst of struggle. [03:15]
2. God's Work in Disruptions: Jesus often performed miracles and taught profound lessons during interruptions. Similarly, our trip to Cuba, though a disruption, bore much fruit. This reminds us that God often works through the disruptions in our lives to produce spiritual growth and blessings. [06:40]
3. Obedience in Disruptions: The story of Palm Sunday highlights how the donkey owner's obedience, despite the disruption, allowed Jesus to fulfill prophecy and make a powerful statement about His kingship. This teaches us that our obedience in the face of disruptions can lead to significant blessings and fulfillment of God's purposes. [19:03]
4. God's Provision in Disruptions: When God calls us to do something that disrupts our lives, He will provide the means to accomplish it. Whether it's financial, time-consuming, or physically draining, God will make a way and produce fruit through our obedience. [23:08]
5. God's Glory in Adversity: The severe disruptions in Cuba have led to a revival, with thousands accepting Jesus. This teaches us that God can use even the most challenging disruptions for His glory. Romans 8:28 reminds us that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him. [30:42]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:47] - Introduction to Cuba Trip
[03:15] - Economic and Political Conditions in Cuba
[05:00] - Church Growth and Revival in Cuba
[06:40] - Jesus' Work in Disruptions
[08:24] - Personal Reflections on Disruptions
[10:07] - Palm Sunday Scripture Reading
[11:49] - Journey to Jerusalem
[13:28] - Jesus' Entry into Jerusalem
[15:01] - Fulfillment of Prophecy
[16:50] - The Importance of the Donkey
[18:03] - The Donkey Owner's Disruption
[19:03] - Disruptions Leading to Fruit
[20:41] - Personal Disruptions and Obedience
[23:08] - God's Provision in Disruptions
[25:22] - Personal Stories from Cuba
[28:52] - God Using Disruptions for His Glory
[30:42] - Romans 8:28 and God's Work in All Things
[32:45] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 21:1-11 (NIV)
> As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, say that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away.” This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet: “Say to Daughter Zion, ‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’” The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!” When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?” The crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”
2. Zechariah 9:9 (NIV)
> Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.
3. Romans 8:28 (NIV)
> And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
#### Observation Questions
1. What were the economic and political conditions in Cuba as described in the sermon? How did these conditions affect the people and the church? [[03:15]]
2. How did Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on a donkey fulfill the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9? [[10:07]]
3. What was the significance of the donkey and its owner in the Palm Sunday story? [[16:50]]
4. How did the disruptions in Cuba lead to spiritual growth and revival according to the sermon? [[05:00]]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the story of the donkey owner in the Palm Sunday narrative illustrate the theme of obedience in the face of disruption? [[19:03]]
2. In what ways did the trip to Cuba serve as a disruption for the team from New Hope, and what were the outcomes of this disruption? [[06:40]]
3. How does Romans 8:28 provide comfort and perspective when facing disruptions and adversities in life? [[30:42]]
4. What lessons can we learn from the Cuban church's response to their difficult circumstances? How does their faith and joy in adversity challenge our own perspectives? [[03:15]]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you experienced a significant disruption in your life. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? How might you respond differently in the future with the perspective of Romans 8:28? [[30:42]]
2. The sermon mentioned that God often calls us to do things that disrupt our lives. What is one area in your life where you feel God might be calling you to step out in faith despite the inconvenience? [[20:41]]
3. How can you cultivate a mindset of hope and joy in Jesus Christ, similar to the Cuban church, even when facing difficult circumstances? [[03:15]]
4. The story of the donkey owner shows that small acts of obedience can lead to significant outcomes for God's kingdom. What small act of obedience can you commit to this week that might have a larger impact? [[19:03]]
5. Think about the disruptions in your daily routine. How can you reframe these interruptions as opportunities for God to work through you? [[06:40]]
6. The sermon highlighted the importance of responding to God's call despite the cost. What practical steps can you take to prioritize God's call over your personal convenience? [[22:19]]
7. How can you support and encourage others in your community who are facing disruptions and challenges? What specific actions can you take to be a source of hope and joy for them? [[05:00]]
Devotional
Day 1: Hope and Joy in Adversity
Despite the severe economic and political hardships in Cuba, the church is growing, and people are finding hope and joy in Jesus Christ. This teaches us that true joy and hope are found in Christ, not in our circumstances. When we lean on God, we can rejoice even in the midst of struggle. The Cuban church's resilience and faith in the face of adversity serve as a powerful reminder that our external conditions do not dictate our internal peace and joy. Instead, our relationship with Jesus Christ is the source of our true hope and joy.
In our own lives, we may face various forms of adversity, whether it be financial struggles, health issues, or relational conflicts. However, like the Cuban believers, we can find hope and joy by leaning on God and trusting in His promises. As we navigate through life's challenges, let us remember that our circumstances are temporary, but God's love and faithfulness are eternal. [03:15]
Habakkuk 3:17-18 (ESV): "Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation."
Reflection: Think of a current challenge you are facing. How can you shift your focus from the difficulty of the situation to the hope and joy found in Jesus Christ?
Day 2: God's Work in Disruptions
Jesus often performed miracles and taught profound lessons during interruptions. Similarly, our trip to Cuba, though a disruption, bore much fruit. This reminds us that God often works through the disruptions in our lives to produce spiritual growth and blessings. Disruptions can come in many forms, such as unexpected changes in plans, sudden health issues, or unforeseen financial burdens. These interruptions can be frustrating and challenging, but they also provide opportunities for God to work in our lives in unexpected ways.
In Cuba, the severe disruptions in people's lives led them to seek God more fervently, resulting in a revival and thousands accepting Jesus. This teaches us that God can use even the most challenging disruptions for His glory. When we face disruptions, we should remain open to how God might be using these situations to draw us closer to Him and to accomplish His purposes in our lives. [06:40]
James 1:2-4 (ESV): "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
Reflection: Think of a recent disruption in your life. How can you view this interruption as an opportunity for God to work and produce spiritual growth in you?
Day 3: Obedience in Disruptions
The story of Palm Sunday highlights how the donkey owner's obedience, despite the disruption, allowed Jesus to fulfill prophecy and make a powerful statement about His kingship. This teaches us that our obedience in the face of disruptions can lead to significant blessings and fulfillment of God's purposes. The donkey owner may not have fully understood the significance of his actions, but his willingness to obey played a crucial role in the fulfillment of Zechariah's prophecy.
In our own lives, we may be called to obey God in ways that disrupt our plans or comfort. These acts of obedience, though challenging, can lead to profound blessings and the advancement of God's kingdom. When we respond to God's call with faith and trust, we open ourselves to being used by Him in powerful ways. [19:03]
1 Samuel 15:22 (ESV): "And Samuel said, 'Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams.'"
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt God calling you to do something that disrupted your plans. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? How can you be more open to obeying God's call in the future?
Day 4: God's Provision in Disruptions
When God calls us to do something that disrupts our lives, He will provide the means to accomplish it. Whether it's financial, time-consuming, or physically draining, God will make a way and produce fruit through our obedience. The Cuban church's experience is a testament to this truth. Despite the severe economic and political conditions, the church is growing, and people are finding hope and joy in Jesus Christ.
In our own lives, we may face disruptions that seem overwhelming or impossible to navigate. However, we can trust that God will provide the resources, strength, and guidance we need to fulfill His call. As we step out in faith and obedience, we can be confident that God will work through us to accomplish His purposes and produce fruit for His kingdom. [23:08]
Philippians 4:19 (ESV): "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
Reflection: Think of a current situation where you feel overwhelmed by the demands or challenges. How can you trust God to provide the resources and strength you need to navigate this disruption?
Day 5: God's Glory in Adversity
The severe disruptions in Cuba have led to a revival, with thousands accepting Jesus. This teaches us that God can use even the most challenging disruptions for His glory. Romans 8:28 reminds us that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him. The Cuban church's experience demonstrates that God can bring about incredible spiritual growth and transformation even in the midst of adversity.
In our own lives, we may face situations that seem insurmountable or deeply challenging. However, we can trust that God is at work, using these circumstances to bring about His purposes and to reveal His glory. As we navigate through adversity, let us remain steadfast in our faith, trusting that God is working all things together for our good and His glory. [30:42]
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (ESV): "For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you experienced significant adversity. How did you see God at work in that situation? How can you trust God to use your current challenges for His glory?
Quotes
1. "And while they were all highly frustrated with their living situations, they were just trusting and leaning on God. I mean, truly trusting and leaning on God. And I think this was kind of the overarching theme of our whole trip is this theme of hope and joy in Jesus Christ. Hope and joy in Jesus. And they're not naive. Like, they know that their situation is really bad. They know it. They'll say, yes, our circumstances are terrible. Yes, the power is off and we can't cook and it's hot. Yes, the food is minimal. Yes, it's true that we have a government that's power hungry and extremely oppressive. But we will choose to rejoice. We will choose to rejoice." [03:15] (55 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Jesus's work was the interruptions. Jesus's work was the interruptions. It was in the disruptions that we see God at work, that we see Jesus's purpose. We see the kingdom of God expanded. We see him pushing back the powers of darkness. There is fruit. There is meaning. There is life change in the disruption. Amen. And the truth is, it's the same for us. It's the same for us." [06:40] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Jesus. Jesus is all that matters. How we get things so mixed up, we can live without all the stuff. And there's so much we take for granted, right? Oh, there is so much we take for granted. And we witnessed, we witnessed firsthand how our brothers and sisters in Cuba live with one disruption after another. Oh my goodness, they live with disruptions in their lives. And they're not necessarily happy about it, right? They understand that their circumstances are rough, but it has driven them closer to Jesus. It truly has." [08:24] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Thousands upon thousands, thousands upon thousands of people are accepting Jesus Christ into their lives for the very first time. True revival. True revival happening on the island of Cuba. And so it got me thinking how God can use disruptions, how God does use disruptions, good disruptions and bad disruptions to produce fruit in us, to change us, possibly to change whole communities. Possibly to change whole nations." [08:24] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "When God calls us to disrupt our lives, we do it anyway. If he calls you to it, he will get you through it. If God calls you to something, he's going to figure out a way for you to do it. He's going to make a way. We don't have to figure it out. God's going to figure that out. And it will lead to fruit. I promise. It will lead to fruit." [23:08] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Sometimes God allows disruptions because he plans on using them for his glory, right? Let's think about the rolling power outages in Cuba, the struggles they are dealing with, the lack of food, the lack of rations. I mean, so all these horrible disruptions and yet people are pouring into the churches. Every service we went to was packed. The service in Buey Arriba, you know, the temple that we've been helping them build for all these years, 345 people squeezed into that service. 345 people. So people are pouring into the churches. They are seeking something. Right? They are seeking something with purpose and meaning and thousands upon thousands upon thousands of people are saying yes to Jesus. I mean, there's revival." [28:52] (61 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "God doesn't cause bad things to happen, but when bad things happen, he uses them for his healing. He can use them for his glory. God does not waste adversity. God doesn't waste anything in our lives. So he's using it for his glory. So I want you to think about the disruptions in your own life that God has taken and turned into fruit." [30:42] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "How do we react when disruptions enter our lives? How do we react when God calls us to make some kind of sacrifice, to do something that's inconvenient or something disruptive? How do we respond? Think about your life right now. And finally, the second question, do we choose to praise God in the midst of the difficulty, in the midst of the mess? Do we choose to rejoice and praise God or do we complain and lament?" [32:45] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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