Getting a Grip: Faith in Adversity
Summary
In today's message, we explored the profound concept of "getting a grip" on our faith and lives, especially in the face of adversity. It's easy to fall into the habit of complaining or "getting a gripe," but the real challenge and necessity is to "get a grip" on God and His promises. We shared a powerful testimony of a miraculous healing, emphasizing the importance of clinging to God's word and the strength it provides. The story of Jamie's surgery and the prayer cloth serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the spoken word of God in our lives.
We delved into the scriptures, highlighting Psalm 63:8, which speaks of clinging to God because His right hand holds us securely. This imagery of holding on tightly to God is crucial, especially when life feels overwhelming. We also discussed the importance of setting boundaries, particularly with those close to us, to maintain our peace and focus on God's promises. The Israelites' journey, as recounted in Exodus 14, serves as a powerful example of moving forward in faith, despite fear and uncertainty.
Furthermore, we addressed the need to get a grip on our belief systems and live according to God's commandments. In a world filled with distractions and challenges, it's vital to hold fast to our faith and not be swayed by societal pressures. We are called to live a life that reflects God's character and to be vigilant in our spiritual disciplines.
Lastly, we touched on the importance of dealing with offenses and maintaining unity within the body of Christ. Offense can be a significant barrier to spiritual growth and community, and it's essential to address it head-on. By doing so, we can live in the fullness of God's peace and purpose for our lives.
Key Takeaways:
1. Cling to God in Adversity: In times of trial, it's crucial to hold tightly to God, as His right hand holds us securely. This act of faith is not passive but requires active engagement with His word and promises. By doing so, we can experience His peace and strength, even in the most challenging circumstances. [05:32]
2. Set Boundaries for Peace: Establishing boundaries, especially with those close to us, is essential for maintaining peace and focus on God's promises. It's not about isolating ourselves but about protecting our spiritual and emotional well-being. This allows us to stand firm in our faith and not be swayed by external pressures. [08:34]
3. Live by God's Commandments: Our belief systems must be rooted in God's commandments, which guide us in living a life that reflects His character. In a world filled with distractions, it's vital to hold fast to our faith and not compromise on our values. This commitment to God's word is a testament to our love for Him. [14:43]
4. Address Offenses for Unity: Offense can be a significant barrier to spiritual growth and community. It's essential to address it head-on, seeking reconciliation and forgiveness. By doing so, we can maintain unity within the body of Christ and live in the fullness of God's peace and purpose. [26:13]
5. Hold on to Hope and Faith: In moments of battle, holding tightly to hope and faith is crucial. These are our compass and shield against the enemy's attacks. By not wavering, we can trust in God's promises and experience His victory in our lives. [42:50]
Youtube Chapters:
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:42] - The Power of God's Word
[02:49] - A Testimony of Healing
[04:12] - The Importance of Belief
[05:32] - Clinging to God
[07:18] - Moving Forward in Faith
[08:34] - Setting Boundaries
[09:58] - Living by Commandments
[11:09] - The Battle for Our Nation
[13:53] - Spiritual Discipline
[15:52] - Standing on God's Word
[17:06] - The Reality of Offense
[19:42] - Processing Offense
[21:50] - Guarding Our Lives
[23:03] - Letting Go of Anger
[24:09] - The Spirit of Offense
[25:13] - Isolation and Offense
[26:13] - Finding New Community
[27:20] - The Cycle of Offense
[28:37] - Inspecting Relationships
[29:53] - The Common Denominator
[31:10] - God's Unchanging Word
[31:53] - Covenant and Community
[33:17] - The Power of Covenant
[34:03] - Dealing with Offense
[35:08] - Living in Covenant
[36:46] - The Church as a Community
[37:32] - Encouragement and Isolation
[38:37] - Spiritual Discipline
[39:41] - Managing Emotions
[40:47] - Holding on to Salvation
[41:46] - The Importance of Hope
[42:50] - The Power of Prayer
[43:59] - Watching for His Return
[44:54] - Living as an Example
[46:13] - Letting Go of Offense
[47:16] - Standing Firm in Faith
[48:06] - The Weapon of God's Word
[49:14] - A Testimony of Faith
[50:13] - Holding on to Progress
[51:13] - Trusting in God's Word
[52:43] - The Journey of Faith
[53:46] - The Call to Get a Grip
[55:07] - The Demand on Our Anointing
[56:38] - Living with God's Peace
[57:54] - Covenant and Faith
[58:59] - God's Unfailing Love
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Psalm 63:8 - "I cling to you; your right hand upholds me."
2. Exodus 14:13-14 - "Moses answered the people, 'Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.'"
3. Proverbs 4:13 - "Take hold of my instructions; don’t let them go. Guard them, for they are the key to life."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Psalm 63:8 suggest about the nature of our relationship with God? How does this relate to the sermon’s emphasis on "getting a grip" on God? [05:32]
2. In Exodus 14:13-14, what instructions does Moses give to the Israelites, and how do these instructions reflect the sermon’s message about moving forward in faith? [07:18]
3. How does the sermon illustrate the power of God's word through the story of Jamie's healing? What role did the prayer cloth and spoken word play in this testimony? [04:12]
4. According to Proverbs 4:13, why is it important to hold on to God's instructions, and how does this connect to the sermon’s call to live by God's commandments? [21:50]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the imagery of clinging to God in Psalm 63:8 help us understand the importance of faith during adversity? What does it mean to actively engage with God's promises? [05:32]
2. In what ways does the story of the Israelites in Exodus 14 serve as a metaphor for facing modern-day challenges with faith? How can we apply Moses' instructions to our own lives? [07:18]
3. The sermon discusses setting boundaries for peace. How can setting boundaries be a form of spiritual discipline, and why is it necessary for maintaining focus on God's promises? [08:34]
4. How does the sermon address the issue of offense within the church community, and what steps are suggested for maintaining unity and reconciliation? [26:13]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent challenge you faced. How did you "get a grip" on God during that time, and what could you do differently in future situations to strengthen your faith? [05:32]
2. Consider your current relationships. Are there boundaries you need to establish to protect your spiritual and emotional well-being? How will you go about setting these boundaries? [08:34]
3. Think about your belief system. Are there areas where you feel swayed by societal pressures? How can you reinforce your commitment to living by God's commandments? [14:43]
4. Have you experienced offense within your church community? What steps can you take to address and resolve these offenses to maintain unity? [26:13]
5. Identify a situation where you need to hold on to hope and faith. What practical steps can you take to ensure you remain steadfast in God's promises during this time? [42:50]
6. How can you actively engage with God's word in your daily life to ensure it remains a powerful tool in your spiritual journey? What changes can you make to prioritize this engagement? [04:12]
7. Reflect on a time when you felt overwhelmed by life's challenges. How did you manage your emotions, and what strategies can you implement to ensure your emotions do not dictate your actions? [40:47]
Devotional
Day 1: Clinging to God in Times of Adversity
In moments of adversity, it is essential to actively engage with God's word and promises. This engagement is not passive; it requires a conscious effort to hold tightly to God, trusting that His right hand holds us securely. By clinging to God, we can experience His peace and strength, even in the most challenging circumstances. The story of Jamie's miraculous healing serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and hope that come from unwavering faith. When life feels overwhelming, remember that God is always present, ready to support and guide you through any trial. [05:32]
Psalm 63:8 (ESV): "My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."
Reflection: In what specific area of your life do you need to cling more tightly to God today? How can you actively engage with His promises to find peace and strength?
Day 2: Establishing Boundaries for Spiritual Peace
Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining peace and focusing on God's promises. This is not about isolating oneself but about protecting one's spiritual and emotional well-being. By establishing healthy boundaries, especially with those close to us, we can stand firm in our faith and not be swayed by external pressures. This practice allows us to prioritize our relationship with God and ensure that our lives reflect His character. Consider how the Israelites moved forward in faith despite fear and uncertainty, trusting in God's guidance. [08:34]
Proverbs 4:23 (ESV): "Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life."
Reflection: What boundaries do you need to set in your relationships to protect your spiritual peace? How can these boundaries help you focus more on God's promises?
Day 3: Living by God's Commandments
Our belief systems must be deeply rooted in God's commandments, guiding us to live a life that reflects His character. In a world filled with distractions and challenges, it is vital to hold fast to our faith and not compromise on our values. This commitment to God's word is a testament to our love for Him and our desire to live according to His will. By aligning our lives with His commandments, we demonstrate our dedication to living a life that honors Him. [14:43]
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV): "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."
Reflection: What specific commandment of God do you find challenging to live by? How can you take practical steps to align your life more closely with this commandment today?
Day 4: Addressing Offenses for Unity
Offense can be a significant barrier to spiritual growth and community. It is essential to address it head-on, seeking reconciliation and forgiveness. By doing so, we can maintain unity within the body of Christ and live in the fullness of God's peace and purpose. Addressing offenses requires humility and a willingness to forgive, allowing us to move forward in love and unity. This practice not only strengthens our relationships but also deepens our connection with God. [26:13]
Colossians 3:13 (ESV): "Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive."
Reflection: Is there someone you need to forgive or seek forgiveness from to restore unity? What steps can you take today to address this offense and promote reconciliation?
Day 5: Holding on to Hope and Faith
In moments of battle, holding tightly to hope and faith is crucial. These are our compass and shield against the enemy's attacks. By not wavering, we can trust in God's promises and experience His victory in our lives. Hope and faith provide the strength and courage needed to face life's challenges, reminding us that God is always with us. As we hold on to these virtues, we can navigate through difficulties with confidence, knowing that God's promises are true and His love is unfailing. [42:50]
Hebrews 10:23 (ESV): "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to hold on to hope and faith more firmly? How can you remind yourself of God's promises in this area today?
Quotes
1) "I believe. I believe. See, our responsibility is to believe. Our responsibility is to get a grip on God, and you don't turn him loose. You need to be like the woman in the Bible who drove the judge crazy. And the earthly judge said, I'm going to grant you your request lest you weary me. Weary the heavens with your request. See, we talk about getting a grip today. Psalm 63, verse eight says, I cling to you. Why? Because your right hand holds me securely. For you to walk away, you're gonna have to pry his fingers off of your life. It's easy to cling to him when he's holding us. So we need to get a grip because he's got you." [05:32] (68 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2) "We need to get a grip and go forward. Exodus 14, starting in verse 13. And Moses said to the people, do not be afraid. Is that one of those 365 do not be afraid. In the Bible started a long time ago. He said, don't be afraid. Stand still. Stop your fretting. Stop wringing your hands. Stop rehearsing what ifs. Stop wondering what could happen, what might happen, and start declaring what will happen. Do not be afraid. Stand still and see that the Lord will save you, which he will accomplish for you today, not yesterday, not tomorrow, today, for the Egyptians or the enemies, or the report or the distressing situation that you see today, you shall see again, no more, forever. Wow, you think you're in a battle? Verse 14 says, the Lord will fight for you." [08:34] (73 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3) "We need to get a grip on our belief system. We're going to probably go back sometime in the fall, if pastor will let us, and just go back to the Ten Commandments and remind you in messages what thou shalt do and thou shalt not. Do you know, Moses was the one. I think he was the one who got the Ten Commandments right. So he got the first download of how we're supposed to live. Exodus 27 and amplified says, you shall not take the name of the Lord your God, in vain. What does that mean? That is irreverently, in false affirmations or in ways that impugn the character of God. The Lord will not hold guiltless, nor leave unpunished the one who takes his name in vain, disregarding its reverence and its power." [12:31] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4) "Get a grip and hold on to your salvation. First, Timothy 612 says, fight the good. Fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you, which you have declared so well before many witnesses. See, when you got saved, you made a declaration, and he is saying to you, guard your salvation. Live sanctified, live spirit filled. It's a simple formula. Just live saved. Just live saved. Just live saved. And your house will be better. Mmm. They need some toe salve today, pastor. Get a grip and hold on to hope. Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise." [41:46] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5) "Get a grip and watch for his return. Revelation 311 says, I am coming soon. His return is so close, you can smell it in the air. Keep your eyes toward the eastern sky. Lift up your eyes, lift up your head, for your redemption is coming soon. Hold on to what you have so that no one will take away your crown. There's no person, there's no substance, there's no relationship worth losing your soul over. Simply not worth it. Not worth it. Get a grip and hold fast. Hebrews twelve, three verses. So take a new grip with your tired hands." [43:59] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6) "Work at living in peace with everyone. And that takes a lot of work, and work at living a holy life for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. Man. He just cut the saints from the ants right there. Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you because it will corrupt many. See, when we don't deal with offense and bitterness and those roots in our lives again, there's no body and no relationship worth losing your soul over. I'm gonna tell you this. There's nobody worth losing sleep over if they have walked out of covenant. Close your eyes, baby, and go to sleep." [46:13] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7) "You need to go to sleep with it every night. You need to be a walking, living epistle of God. You need to know what's in this book so when the waves of life come and they will slap you, I promise they will slap you. Wouldn't you like to go back and be a brand new tither? I'd like to start over and just be a brand new tither. Because you heard her testify. What happens to brand new tithers? But some of you seasoned tithers, he just hangs you out over the great, deep blue ocean and lets you just wobble because he knows you're going to trust him. Come hail or come high water, and he can use your story. Come hell or come high water, because you are a seasoned warrior, and he knows you know how to get through a thing and how to trust him through a thing, and he can give you a word in the middle of a storm for somebody else." [53:46] (58 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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