Finding Joy and Purpose in Difficult Times
Summary
In today's gathering, we focused on the theme of "The Good Things," exploring how we can find joy and purpose even in seasons of suffering and opposition. We began by reflecting on the goodness of God and expressing gratitude for His presence in our lives. This gratitude sets the stage for understanding how to navigate life's challenges with a heart full of thanksgiving and a mind focused on the positive.
Drawing from Philippians 4:8, we delved into the Apostle Paul's message to the Philippian church, emphasizing that joy can be found in all circumstances, even amidst suffering. Paul, writing from a Roman prison, exemplified how one's hope and confidence should be rooted in the unchanging truth of Jesus' work, rather than in fluctuating circumstances. This perspective encourages us to model a hope that the world cannot provide, by growing in our understanding of the gospel and God's will.
We explored four key points to help us focus on the good things during difficult times: walking in humility, becoming selfless, remaining steadfast, and walking in unity. Each of these points serves as a guide to align our lives with Christ's teachings and to find strength in community and service. Walking in humility involves leaning into God during our lowest moments, while becoming selfless requires us to value others above ourselves, much like Jesus did. Remaining steadfast means staying focused on God's vision for our lives, even when faced with opposition. Finally, walking in unity calls us to set aside differences and work together as one body in Christ.
As we navigate through life's challenges, we are reminded to pause, pray, and proceed, trusting that God orders our destiny. By focusing on the good things, we can find encouragement and strength to persevere, knowing that our current struggles are temporary and part of a greater journey. Let us continue to seek God's guidance, remain faithful, and keep our eyes on Him, trusting that He will lead us through every season.
Key Takeaways:
- Walk in Humility: Embrace humility by leaning into God during challenging times. Even when circumstances seem discouraging, our spirit can find encouragement in God's presence. Humility allows us to see beyond our struggles and recognize the good things God has placed in our lives. [51:29]
- Become Selfless: True selflessness involves valuing others above ourselves, as Jesus did. By serving others and focusing on their needs, we align ourselves with Christ's example of love and sacrifice. This mindset helps us grow in humility and strengthens our relationships. [58:48]
- Remain Steadfast: Stay focused on God's vision for your life, even when faced with opposition. Like a boxer who remains committed to their goal, we must persevere through challenges, trusting that God will guide us and provide the strength we need to succeed. [01:01:06]
- Walk in Unity: Unity within the church and our relationships is essential for overcoming division and fostering growth. By setting aside differences and working together, we reflect God's desire for harmony and demonstrate the power of community. [01:04:37]
- Focus on the Good Things: In times of suffering, remember to pause, pray, and proceed, trusting that God orders our destiny. By focusing on the positive aspects of our journey, we can find hope and encouragement, knowing that our struggles are temporary and part of a greater plan. [01:09:22]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[40:37] - Opening Prayer and Gratitude
[42:05] - Personal Testimony and Church Family
[43:48] - Introduction to the Message
[45:21] - Reading from Philippians 4:8
[46:53] - Context of Philippians
[48:25] - Joy in Suffering
[49:15] - The Good Things
[51:29] - Walk in Humility
[53:10] - COVID Reflections and Humility
[58:48] - Become Selfless
[59:59] - Remain Steadfast
[01:01:06] - Example of Adonis Creed
[01:02:48] - Walk in Unity
[01:04:37] - Importance of Unity
[01:06:54] - Focus on the Good Things
[01:09:22] - Conclusion and Prayer
[01:12:02] - Invitation to Accept Christ
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: "The Good Things"
Bible Reading:
- Philippians 4:8 (NIV): "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Observation Questions:
1. What are the specific qualities that Paul encourages the Philippians to focus on in Philippians 4:8?
2. How does the sermon describe Paul's circumstances when he wrote the letter to the Philippians? [46:53]
3. What are the four key points mentioned in the sermon that help us focus on the good things during difficult times? [49:15]
4. How does the sermon illustrate the concept of humility through the speaker's personal experiences during COVID? [53:10]
Interpretation Questions:
1. Why does Paul emphasize the importance of focusing on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report? How might this focus impact a believer's mindset during challenging times?
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that suffering can be a means of spreading the message of salvation? [46:53]
3. How does the sermon connect the idea of unity within the church to overcoming division and fostering growth? [01:04:37]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the relationship between humility and finding encouragement in God's presence during discouraging circumstances? [51:29]
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a recent challenging situation in your life. How can you apply the principle of focusing on the good things, as outlined in Philippians 4:8, to find joy and purpose in that situation?
2. The sermon emphasizes walking in humility. Can you identify a specific area in your life where you need to lean into God more during low moments? How can you take a step towards embracing humility this week? [51:29]
3. Consider a relationship where you might need to become more selfless. What practical steps can you take to value others above yourself, following Jesus' example? [58:48]
4. Think about a goal or vision God has given you. What are some potential obstacles you might face, and how can you remain steadfast in pursuing this vision despite opposition? [01:01:06]
5. Reflect on a situation where you have experienced or witnessed division. How can you contribute to unity within your church or community, setting aside differences to work together as one body in Christ? [01:04:37]
6. The sermon suggests pausing, praying, and proceeding as a way to handle suffering. How can you incorporate this practice into your daily routine to better manage life's challenges? [01:08:36]
7. Identify one "good thing" in your life that you can focus on this week. How can this focus help you navigate through a current struggle or season of suffering? [01:09:22]
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing Humility in Adversity
In times of adversity, embracing humility allows us to lean into God's presence and find encouragement beyond our struggles. Humility is not about thinking less of ourselves but recognizing our need for God and His guidance. It involves acknowledging our limitations and seeking strength from a higher source. By doing so, we open ourselves to see the good things God has placed in our lives, even when circumstances seem discouraging. This perspective helps us maintain a heart full of thanksgiving and a mind focused on the positive, as we trust in God's unchanging nature. [51:29]
"Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.' Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you." (1 Peter 5:5-6, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a recent challenge you faced. How can you lean into God and embrace humility to find encouragement and see the good things in that situation today?
Day 2: Selflessness as a Path to Growth
True selflessness involves valuing others above ourselves, following the example of Jesus. This mindset requires us to serve others and focus on their needs, which aligns us with Christ's example of love and sacrifice. By becoming selfless, we grow in humility and strengthen our relationships, fostering a community that reflects God's love. This selflessness is not about neglecting our own needs but about prioritizing the well-being of others, trusting that God will provide for us as we serve. [58:48]
"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." (Philippians 2:3-4, ESV)
Reflection: Identify one person in your life whom you can serve selflessly today. What specific action can you take to prioritize their needs above your own?
Day 3: Steadfastness in the Face of Opposition
Remaining steadfast means staying focused on God's vision for our lives, even when faced with opposition. Like a boxer committed to their goal, we must persevere through challenges, trusting that God will guide us and provide the strength we need to succeed. This steadfastness is rooted in the unchanging truth of Jesus' work, rather than in fluctuating circumstances. By keeping our eyes on God's promises, we can navigate life's difficulties with confidence and hope. [01:01:06]
"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain." (1 Corinthians 15:58, ESV)
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you feel opposition? How can you remain steadfast and focused on God's vision for you in that area today?
Day 4: Unity as a Reflection of God's Desire
Walking in unity within the church and our relationships is essential for overcoming division and fostering growth. By setting aside differences and working together, we reflect God's desire for harmony and demonstrate the power of community. Unity does not mean uniformity but involves embracing diversity while pursuing a common purpose. This unity strengthens our witness to the world and helps us grow in our understanding of God's will. [01:04:37]
"I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment." (1 Corinthians 1:10, ESV)
Reflection: Consider a relationship or situation where there is division. What steps can you take today to promote unity and reflect God's desire for harmony?
Day 5: Focusing on the Good Things
In times of suffering, focusing on the good things helps us find hope and encouragement. By pausing, praying, and proceeding, we trust that God orders our destiny and that our struggles are temporary and part of a greater plan. This focus on the positive aspects of our journey allows us to see beyond our current circumstances and recognize the blessings in our lives. By keeping our eyes on God, we can navigate through life's challenges with a heart full of thanksgiving and a mind focused on His promises. [01:09:22]
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." (Philippians 4:8, ESV)
Reflection: What is one good thing in your life that you can focus on today, even amidst challenges? How can this focus help you find hope and encouragement in your current situation?
Quotes
Give it all to Him. Say it to yourself. Say it with all your heart. Thank you, God. We thank you. We've been through so much, but you've given us so much more. Hallelujah. God, you are so good. You're so holy. You're a good God. And we honor you in this moment. Thank you, God. Thank you, God. God is so good. [00:39:36] (108 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
Therefore, Paul reminded the church that suffering should not be seen as evidence of God's lack of care and concern for his church. But in fact, suffering is a God-ordained means of spreading the message of salvation. As Christians suffer with joy and find contentment in all things. They have the privilege of modeling a hope that this world cannot provide. [00:47:00] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
So what does that mean, Pastor Chris? What does that mean? It means that whenever you're going through a moment of struggle, negative mindset, denial, rejection, criticism, judgment you face, there's an opportunity for you to look up and look at God for your ways and the things that he's given you in your life. When you fall or stumble, or when you had a bad day, or when you have to backtrack and reset, or when you feel like there's no other option, you're facing the hardest situation of your life, but it's not the end. [00:49:25] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
We got into a circumstance to where we felt suffering. People lost jobs. People were sick, you know, and unfortunately, some lost family and friends, so they was in a grieving season. But, but God, in a, in a moment when we felt discouragement, we felt encouragement by the Lord. Here's a point. Your circumstance may feel discouraging, but your spirit can be encouraged by God. [00:52:33] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
Jesus didn't lever his authority when he had power not at all Jesus could have did anything but instead he helped others he could have been selfish but he decided to heal he decided to raise people from the dead to have control to comfort those he had his way of taking on a nature as a service. And that's a point for you for that. Take on nature as a servant. [00:58:04] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
Through Paul's journey and disciples journey, they had one goal. And that was to go out and make disciples. That was to go out and to preach the word of God. And that's exactly what they did, regardless of the persecution, opposition, and the suffering that they had. They remained steadfast. And that's what God wants us to do. God gives us a vision. He gives you an opportunity where you can grow, where you can become who he wants you to be. [01:00:36] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
Division is a human's way, but unity is God's way. That's a point from that. Division is human's way, but unity is God's way. Share your suffering with somebody. Tell somebody what you're going through. If you ask somebody for something, because you're going through something, you're going to get a yes or you're going to get a no. But that does not mean that you have to continually suffer. [01:05:51] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
Focus on the good things that you have. In the moment or in that season that God has for us in our lives when we are suffering or struggling. I know that it may sound easy. I know that some of these points you'll get today, you'll go into Monday and you're still in the season. But that's where we really submit and we say, God, I'm humble. God, help me become selfless. God, help me become steadfast. Give me community. [01:07:29] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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