Finding Strength and Guidance in God's Promises
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to worship and thank the Lord for His goodness and the privilege of being together as a community of believers. We lifted our hands and voices in praise, acknowledging God's worthiness and His relentless goodness that pursues us. We prayed for those in need of healing and wisdom, trusting that God hears and answers our prayers, sometimes immediately and sometimes over time, but always faithfully.
We delved into 1 Samuel 30:6, where David, in a moment of great distress, strengthened himself in the Lord. This passage teaches us the importance of learning to encourage ourselves in God, especially when we find ourselves alone and without immediate support from others. Jesus Himself warned us that in this world, we will face tribulation, but He has overcome the world, and in Him, we find peace.
David's story is a powerful reminder that even in our distress, whether caused by external circumstances or our own poor decisions, we can turn to God. David's men were ready to stone him because their families had been taken captive, but David sought the Lord and found strength. He remembered God's past faithfulness, which fueled his faith to believe that God would deliver them again.
We also discussed the importance of seeking God's counsel before making decisions, rather than relying on our own understanding or the advice of others. David's inquiry of the Lord using the ephod is a model for us to seek divine guidance in our times of trouble. God’s promises are living, enduring, and fulfilled. They are trustworthy and unchanging, unlike the empty promises of the world.
As we partook in communion, we remembered Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant in His blood, which brings us healing, restoration, and the promise of eternal life. We were reminded to examine ourselves and ensure our hearts are right with God, embracing His forgiveness and extending it to others.
### Key Takeaways
1. Encouraging Yourself in the Lord: In moments of distress, whether caused by external circumstances or our own decisions, we must learn to encourage ourselves in the Lord. David's example in 1 Samuel 30:6 shows us that remembering God's past faithfulness can fuel our faith for present challenges. By focusing on God's promises and His past deliverances, we can find the strength to face our current trials. [32:00]
2. Seeking God's Counsel: Before making decisions, especially in times of distress, it is crucial to seek God's guidance. David's use of the ephod to inquire of the Lord teaches us to turn to God first, rather than relying on our own understanding or the advice of others. This ensures that our actions align with God's will and brings His wisdom into our situations. [49:44]
3. God's Living and Enduring Promises: God's promises are not dead; they are living and active. They endure forever, providing us with a solid foundation in times of trouble. Unlike the fleeting and often unfulfilled promises of the world, God's promises are trustworthy and eternal. This gives us hope and assurance that He will see us through every trial. [57:00]
4. God's Fulfilled Promises: God has a track record of fulfilling His promises. We can be certain that everything He has said He will do, He will accomplish. This includes promises of salvation, provision, protection, and more. Our faith is strengthened by remembering that God is faithful to His word and will bring it to pass in His perfect timing. [59:51]
5. The Power of Communion: Partaking in communion is a powerful reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant in His blood. It calls us to examine ourselves, seek forgiveness, and remember the healing and restoration that Jesus' death and resurrection bring. Communion is a time to reaffirm our faith and commitment to live as ambassadors of Christ, bringing glory to His name. [01:05:17]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[02:13] - Opening Prayer and Worship
[28:02] - Prayer for Healing and Needs
[30:27] - Announcements and Introduction
[31:22] - Scripture Reading: 1 Samuel 30:6
[32:00] - Theme: Encourage Yourself
[33:45] - Finding Peace in Jesus
[35:18] - Personal Testimony of Distress
[39:46] - Trusting God in Difficult Situations
[43:10] - David's Distress and God's Faithfulness
[49:44] - Seeking God's Counsel
[57:00] - God's Living and Enduring Promises
[59:51] - God's Fulfilled Promises
[01:05:17] - Communion and Self-Examination
[01:08:17] - Closing Prayer and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- 1 Samuel 30:6
- John 16:33
#### Observation Questions
1. What was David's emotional state in 1 Samuel 30:6, and what caused it? [31:22]
2. How did David respond to his distress according to 1 Samuel 30:6? [31:22]
3. What does Jesus promise in John 16:33 about the troubles we will face in this world? [33:45]
4. How did the pastor describe the importance of seeking God's counsel before making decisions? [49:44]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that David "strengthened himself in the Lord" during his distress? How does this apply to our own moments of distress? [31:22]
2. What does Jesus mean when He says, "In this world, you will have tribulation, but take heart; I have overcome the world"? How should this shape our perspective on challenges? [33:45]
3. How can remembering God's past faithfulness help us in our current trials, as illustrated by David's story? [46:06]
4. Why is it crucial to seek God's guidance before making decisions, especially in times of distress? How does David's use of the ephod illustrate this? [49:44]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you were in distress. How did you handle it? Did you seek to strengthen yourself in the Lord as David did? [31:22]
2. Jesus promises peace in Him despite the tribulations we face. What practical steps can you take to find peace in Jesus during your current challenges? [33:45]
3. Think of a situation where you made a decision without seeking God's counsel. What was the outcome? How might the situation have been different if you had sought God's guidance first? [49:44]
4. David remembered God's past faithfulness to fuel his faith. Can you recall specific instances where God has been faithful in your life? How can these memories help you face your current challenges? [46:06]
5. The pastor mentioned the importance of self-examination during communion. How can you regularly practice self-examination to ensure your heart is right with God? [01:05:17]
6. How can you encourage yourself in the Lord daily, even when you feel alone and without immediate support from others? [32:34]
7. The pastor spoke about the power of communion and self-examination. How can you make communion a more meaningful practice in your spiritual life? [01:05:17]
This guide is designed to help your small group delve deeper into the themes of the sermon, encouraging personal reflection and practical application of biblical principles.
Devotional
### Day 1: Encouraging Yourself in the Lord
In moments of distress, whether caused by external circumstances or our own decisions, we must learn to encourage ourselves in the Lord. David's example in 1 Samuel 30:6 shows us that remembering God's past faithfulness can fuel our faith for present challenges. By focusing on God's promises and His past deliverances, we can find the strength to face our current trials. [32:00]
David found himself in a dire situation where his own men were ready to stone him because their families had been taken captive. Despite the overwhelming distress, David chose to strengthen himself in the Lord. This act of turning to God in his lowest moment is a powerful lesson for us. When we face trials, it is easy to feel isolated and overwhelmed. However, by recalling God's past faithfulness and His promises, we can find the courage and strength to persevere.
Encouraging ourselves in the Lord involves actively remembering His goodness and speaking His promises over our lives. It means choosing to trust in His character and His word, even when our circumstances seem bleak. This practice not only uplifts our spirits but also aligns our hearts with God's truth, enabling us to face our challenges with renewed faith and hope.
1 Samuel 30:6 (ESV): "And David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because all the people were bitter in soul, each for his sons and daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God."
Reflection: Think of a recent challenge you faced. How can you remind yourself of God's past faithfulness to find strength in your current situation?
### Day 2: Seeking God's Counsel
Before making decisions, especially in times of distress, it is crucial to seek God's guidance. David's use of the ephod to inquire of the Lord teaches us to turn to God first, rather than relying on our own understanding or the advice of others. This ensures that our actions align with God's will and brings His wisdom into our situations. [49:44]
In times of trouble, our natural inclination might be to rely on our own understanding or seek advice from those around us. However, David's example in 1 Samuel 30:7-8 shows us a different approach. When faced with the crisis of his family's abduction, David sought the Lord's counsel using the ephod. This act of seeking divine guidance before taking action is a model for us to follow.
By turning to God first, we acknowledge His sovereignty and wisdom. It is an act of humility and trust, recognizing that His ways are higher than ours. Seeking God's counsel can come through prayer, reading His word, and being attentive to the Holy Spirit's leading. When we prioritize God's guidance, we align our decisions with His will, ensuring that we walk in His wisdom and favor.
1 Samuel 30:7-8 (ESV): "And David said to Abiathar the priest, the son of Ahimelech, 'Bring me the ephod.' So Abiathar brought the ephod to David. And David inquired of the Lord, 'Shall I pursue after this band? Shall I overtake them?' He answered him, 'Pursue, for you shall surely overtake and shall surely rescue.'"
Reflection: Before making a significant decision, how can you intentionally seek God's guidance today?
### Day 3: God's Living and Enduring Promises
God's promises are not dead; they are living and active. They endure forever, providing us with a solid foundation in times of trouble. Unlike the fleeting and often unfulfilled promises of the world, God's promises are trustworthy and eternal. This gives us hope and assurance that He will see us through every trial. [57:00]
The promises of God are a source of immense comfort and strength. Unlike human promises, which can be broken or forgotten, God's promises are eternal and unchanging. They are living and active, meaning they are relevant and powerful in our lives today. When we face difficulties, we can stand firm on the promises of God, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill them.
God's promises cover every aspect of our lives, from provision and protection to salvation and eternal life. They are a testament to His unchanging character and His unwavering love for us. By meditating on His promises and declaring them over our lives, we build a foundation of faith that can withstand any storm. God's promises give us hope and assurance, reminding us that He is with us and will see us through every trial.
Isaiah 40:8 (ESV): "The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever."
Reflection: What is one promise of God that you can hold onto today? How can you remind yourself of this promise throughout your day?
### Day 4: God's Fulfilled Promises
God has a track record of fulfilling His promises. We can be certain that everything He has said He will do, He will accomplish. This includes promises of salvation, provision, protection, and more. Our faith is strengthened by remembering that God is faithful to His word and will bring it to pass in His perfect timing. [59:51]
Throughout the Bible, we see countless examples of God fulfilling His promises. From the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt to the coming of the Messiah, God's faithfulness is evident. This track record of fulfilled promises gives us confidence that He will continue to be faithful in our lives. When we remember God's past faithfulness, our faith is strengthened, and we are encouraged to trust Him for our present and future needs.
God's promises are not limited to the past; they are active and relevant today. He promises to provide for us, protect us, and guide us. He promises to be with us in every situation and to work all things for our good. By holding onto these promises and trusting in God's faithfulness, we can navigate life's challenges with confidence and hope. God's faithfulness to His word assures us that He will accomplish everything He has promised in His perfect timing.
Joshua 21:45 (ESV): "Not one word of all the good promises that the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when God fulfilled a promise in your life. How does this memory strengthen your faith for current challenges?
### Day 5: The Power of Communion
Partaking in communion is a powerful reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant in His blood. It calls us to examine ourselves, seek forgiveness, and remember the healing and restoration that Jesus' death and resurrection bring. Communion is a time to reaffirm our faith and commitment to live as ambassadors of Christ, bringing glory to His name. [01:05:17]
Communion is a sacred practice that allows us to remember and celebrate the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. As we partake in the bread and the cup, we are reminded of His body broken for us and His blood shed for the forgiveness of our sins. This act of remembrance is not just a ritual; it is a powerful declaration of our faith in the finished work of Christ and the new covenant established through His blood.
During communion, we are called to examine ourselves and ensure our hearts are right with God. It is a time to seek His forgiveness and extend forgiveness to others. This self-examination helps us to live in alignment with God's will and to walk in the healing and restoration that Jesus' sacrifice provides. Communion also reaffirms our commitment to live as ambassadors of Christ, representing His love and grace to the world.
1 Corinthians 11:28-29 (ESV): "Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself."
Reflection: As you prepare for communion, take a moment to examine your heart. Is there any area where you need to seek God's forgiveness or extend forgiveness to others? How can you live out your commitment to Christ today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "How many love to celebrate new life in Jesus? He still changes lives. He still saves. He still delivers. He still sets free. And I'm so glad about that." [30:27] (10 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "As believers, I know we have been taught and it's biblically true and it's sound teaching that we are to encourage one another. Just a few moments ago, we prayed for one another. That's encouragement, to know that somebody has your back and they're praying for God's best for you and praying for God's answer for you." [32:34] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Stop searching for peace in a bottle, in something that you toke, something that you swallow. Hello, somebody in a relationship. Stop trying to find peace outside of Jesus. You won't find it. You'll get yourself in a deeper mess. Our real peace in the midst of storms and troubles in life come in the person of Jesus Christ." [33:45] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So many times when we make mistakes, we run from God when we should turn to God. I just got to tell this little story because I speak this word. Terry and I have spoken this word for the last 18 months or better over our children of Roar. That's recovery, overflow, advancement, and restoration." [54:27] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "See, if we're anticipating that, we need to be letting other people know he's coming. If we're anticipating that, we need to be letting our neighbors, our family, our friends, our coworkers know that now is the time. Now is the day of salvation. You need to give your heart to Jesus." [58:54] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "As followers of Jesus, there are times in our lives of growing spiritually, being spiritually mature, we have to learn how to encourage ourself. There are times when we're not gonna have one another with us. There are times when pastors, Frickland is not gonna be available to come see you or to take your phone call or one of the other staff member pastors not gonna be able to get to where you are." [33:11] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "David tells us what to do when we're going through stuff. Things that will distress us, give us anxiety, give us pain and sorrow. David says, this is what we do. We sit and remember the goodness of the Lord. We begin to remember the times that God has helped us back there, that God delivered us over there. The time that God showed up here when we didn't know what was going to happen." [46:06] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "David is an example. Don't run from the church and your pastors when you're going through difficulty. So many times we get ourselves in a pickle or we find ourselves in a pickle and we don't want embarrassment. We don't want people to know. We need to throw that mess out the window because this is a place of healing. This is a place where you can be encouraged." [51:58] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "David sought the Lord. He turned to the Lord. Don't make a decision. Don't make a decision without seeking the Lord. Don't try to get out of your mess. You're going to make your mess multiplied by just doing something out of your own ability and own strength." [52:47] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I want to ask the question, why should we encourage ourselves in the Lord our God as David did? I think I've shared enough to encourage you to do that. But number one, we do it because God... God is a God of living promises. His promises aren't dead, they're alive." [57:00] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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