Living Boldly in God's Faithfulness and Love
Summary
Today, we stand together with a new determination—a resolve that is rooted in the goodness, faithfulness, and steadfast love of God. Life, much like the journey of Jesus from Palm Sunday to Resurrection, is a series of highs and lows, celebrations and sorrows. Yet, through it all, God has kept us, blessed us, and shown us mercy beyond what we deserve. When we take time to reflect on where God has brought us from, gratitude wells up in our hearts, and we cannot help but give Him glory. No matter the storms or the rain that falls in our lives, we are reminded that God’s love endures forever, and His presence changes how we handle every season.
Psalm 118 reminds us that we are not defined by our trials, but by the God who brings us through them. The psalmist declares, “I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the Lord.” This is not just about surviving, but about living with purpose, living our blessed life, and refusing to let our past or our pain keep us from the promises God has for us. We are called to testify—to share our stories of deliverance, to thank God for His faithfulness, and to rejoice in every new day He gives us. Each day is a gift, crafted by God with us in mind, and no matter what comes, we can rejoice because God is with us.
Our determination is not just to live, but to live boldly, to testify of God’s goodness, to thank Him continually, to rejoice regardless of circumstances, and to praise Him even more. The enemy may try to steal our joy, but the joy we have comes from the Lord, and nothing can take it away. We are reminded that for some things to live in our lives, other things must die—old habits, fears, and doubts. As we walk forward, we do so with our heads held high, knowing that God is not finished with us yet. We are alive because there is more—more purpose, more blessing, more testimony, and more praise. Let us go forth this week with a new determination, trusting that every chain will be broken, every yoke destroyed, and every promise fulfilled, because God is faithful and His steadfast love endures forever.
Key Takeaways
- A New Determination to Live
God calls us not just to exist, but to truly live—embracing the fullness of His blessings and purpose for our lives. This means letting go of what tries to hold us back, refusing to let past pain or present challenges define our future. Declaring “I shall not die, but I shall live” is a statement of faith that God’s promises are still unfolding, and we are meant to see them come to pass. Sometimes, for new things to live, old things must die, and that’s part of God’s process for our growth. [01:15:11]
- Testifying of God’s Goodness
Our stories matter. Sharing how God has delivered us, even from the lowest places, is a powerful act of faith and encouragement to others. Testimony is not about perfection, but about God’s ability to reach us in our brokenness and use us for His glory. When we recount the deeds of the Lord, we remind ourselves and others that no one is beyond God’s reach, and every deliverance is worth celebrating. [01:19:12]
- Thankfulness as a Lifestyle
Gratitude is more than a moment; it’s a continual posture of the heart. We thank God not just for what He has done, but for who He is—our Provider, our Healer, our Peace. Even when circumstances are difficult, a thankful heart keeps us anchored in God’s faithfulness and opens us to receive even more of His grace. True thankfulness is inexhaustible; we can never thank God enough for His steadfast love. [01:32:58]
- Rejoicing in Every Season
Joy is not dependent on circumstances, but on the unchanging character of God. Each day is a gift from the Lord, and we are called to rejoice and be glad in it, regardless of what we face. The enemy may try to steal our joy, but when our joy is rooted in God, it becomes untouchable. Rejoicing is an act of defiance against despair and a declaration that God’s plans for us are good. [01:27:28]
- Walking in Victory and Refusing to Fear
Knowing that God is on our side changes everything. We no longer focus on our trials or those who oppose us, but on the triumph God has promised. The noise of opposition may surround us, but it cannot stop what God has ordained. With a new determination, we walk forward in faith, confident that every chain will be broken and every promise fulfilled, because God is with us and for us. [01:11:36]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[53:13] - Opening Scripture and Prayer
[57:47] - Life’s Highs and Lows: God’s Faithfulness
[01:07:30] - Calling on the Lord in Distress
[01:11:36] - Triumph Over Trials and Haters
[01:15:11] - A New Determination to Live
[01:19:12] - The Power of Testimony
[01:22:16] - Thankfulness and Praise
[01:26:48] - Rejoicing in the Day the Lord Has Made
[01:29:01] - Protecting Your Joy
[01:31:03] - Five Points of Determination
[01:31:54] - Praising God in Every Circumstance
[01:32:58] - Thanking God Even More
[01:39:19] - Declaration: You Shall Live
[01:49:08] - Living to See God’s Promises
[01:53:58] - God Will Work It Out
[01:56:18] - Invitation to Salvation
[02:01:12] - Prayer of Thanksgiving and Blessing
[02:03:29] - Offering and Benediction
[02:09:38] - Walking in New Determination
[02:16:04] - Final Blessing and Dismissal
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: “A New Determination”
---
### Bible Reading
Psalm 118:17-21 (ESV)
> I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the Lord. The Lord has disciplined me severely, but he has not given me over to death. Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through them and give thanks to the Lord. This is the gate of the Lord; the righteous shall enter through it. I thank you that you have answered me and have become my salvation.
---
### Observation Questions
1. In Psalm 118:17, what does the psalmist declare about his future, and what is he determined to do with his life?
2. According to the sermon, what are some of the “highs and lows” that the preacher says we all experience in life? ([57:47])
3. What does the psalmist say about God’s response when he called out in distress? ([01:07:30])
4. In the sermon, what does the preacher say must happen for new things to live in our lives? ([01:15:11])
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. The psalmist says, “I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the Lord.” What does it mean to live with purpose and not just survive, according to the sermon? ([01:15:11])
2. The preacher talks about testifying and sharing our stories. Why is it important to share testimonies, even if our stories are not perfect? ([01:19:12])
3. The sermon says, “Gratitude is more than a moment; it’s a continual posture of the heart.” How does a lifestyle of thankfulness change the way we handle difficult seasons? ([01:32:58])
4. The preacher mentions that “the enemy may try to steal our joy, but the joy we have comes from the Lord.” What does it look like to protect your joy in everyday life? ([01:29:01])
---
### Application Questions
1. The psalmist declares, “I shall not die, but I shall live.” Is there an area in your life where you have been just surviving instead of truly living? What would it look like for you to step into a new determination to live fully this week? ([01:15:11])
2. The sermon says that for some things to live, other things must die—like old habits, fears, or doubts. What is one thing you sense God is asking you to let go of so that something new can grow in your life? ([01:15:11])
3. Think about a time when God brought you through a difficult situation. Have you shared that testimony with anyone? What’s one way you can encourage someone this week by sharing your story? ([01:19:12])
4. The preacher encourages us to make thankfulness a lifestyle, not just a moment. What is one practical way you can practice gratitude every day this week, even if your circumstances are tough? ([01:32:58])
5. The sermon says, “Rejoicing is an act of defiance against despair.” When you face discouragement or negativity, what is one thing you can do to choose joy and rejoice in the Lord? ([01:27:28])
6. The preacher talks about walking in victory and refusing to fear because God is on our side. Is there a situation right now where you need to shift your focus from your problems to God’s promises? What would that look like for you? ([01:11:36])
7. The sermon ends with a call to go into the week with a new determination. What is one specific step you will take this week to walk in that new determination—whether it’s living boldly, testifying, being thankful, rejoicing, or praising God more? ([02:09:38])
---
Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite group members to pray for one another, asking God to give each person a new determination to live, testify, give thanks, rejoice, and walk in victory this week.
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing New Life by Letting Go of the Old
God calls us to more than mere existence; He invites us into a vibrant, purposeful life filled with His blessings. This means releasing the grip of past pain, old habits, fears, and doubts that try to define or limit us. Declaring “I shall not die, but I shall live” is a bold affirmation that God’s promises are unfolding, and we are meant to walk into them with confidence. Growth often requires that some things must die so that new life can flourish, and this process is part of God’s loving work in us. When we embrace this new determination, we step into the fullness of what God has prepared for us. [01:15:11]
“Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:19 ESV)
Reflection: What is one old habit, fear, or doubt you sense God is calling you to release today so that new life can take root in your heart?
Day 2: The Power of Sharing God’s Deliverance
Your story matters deeply. Sharing how God has brought you through difficult seasons is a powerful testimony that encourages others and glorifies God. Testimony is not about perfection but about God’s grace reaching into our brokenness and transforming it for His glory. When you recount the deeds of the Lord, you remind yourself and those around you that no one is beyond God’s reach and that every deliverance is worth celebrating. Your testimony becomes a beacon of hope, showing that God’s faithfulness is real and active in every circumstance. [01:19:12]
“Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He sent out his word and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction.” (Psalm 107:19-20 ESV)
Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear how God has delivered you? How can you share your story with them this week to encourage their faith?
Day 3: Cultivating a Heart of Continuous Gratitude
Thankfulness is not a fleeting feeling but a lifestyle posture that anchors us in God’s faithfulness. It goes beyond thanking God for what He has done to embracing who He is—our Provider, Healer, and Peace. Even in difficult seasons, a grateful heart opens us to receive more of His grace and keeps us grounded in His steadfast love. True gratitude is inexhaustible; it flows continually from a heart that recognizes God’s unchanging goodness. When thankfulness becomes our default, it transforms how we see every circumstance and deepens our relationship with God. [01:32:58]
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV)
Reflection: What specific practice can you adopt today to cultivate a daily habit of thankfulness, even when life feels challenging?
Day 4: Rejoicing Rooted in God’s Unchanging Character
Joy is not dependent on external circumstances but on the unshakable nature of God’s character. Each day is a gift crafted by God, and we are called to rejoice and be glad in it regardless of what we face. When the enemy tries to steal our joy, anchoring it in God makes it untouchable. Rejoicing is an act of spiritual defiance against despair and a declaration that God’s plans for us are good. Choosing joy daily strengthens our faith and empowers us to face life’s storms with hope and confidence. [01:27:28]
“Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.” (1 Peter 1:8 ESV)
Reflection: In what ways can you intentionally choose to rejoice today, even if your circumstances don’t feel joyful?
Day 5: Walking Boldly in Victory Without Fear
Knowing that God is on your side changes everything. Instead of focusing on trials or opposition, fix your eyes on the triumph God has promised. Though opposition may surround you, it cannot thwart what God has ordained. Walking forward with new determination means living in faith, confident that every chain will be broken and every promise fulfilled. This boldness comes from trusting that God is both with you and for you, empowering you to refuse fear and live victoriously. [01:11:36]
“The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” (Psalm 118:6 ESV)
Reflection: What is one fear or area of doubt you can surrender to God today, trusting Him to lead you into victory?
Quotes
``because no matter if we're having good or bad days ups or downs the bible reminds us that it rains on the just and the unjust alike that simply means that all of us are going to have some good and some bad days that no matter how saved you are no matter how super saved you are no matter how sanctified holy goes filled five baptized you are you're gonna have some rain that's gonna fall in your life that that it doesn't make a difference how many times you come to bible study doesn't make a difference how many times you come to church you're gonna have some rain to fall in your life but because you come to bible study and because you come to church and because you worship god you handle the rain different [01:01:09] (39 seconds)
how far we're down we can be down by 20 in the fourth quarter and they still believe that we gonna win the game because they had michael jordan on their side and see just like the bulls had michael jordan on their side that no matter how down they were they just kept feeding the ball to mike and mike would score 40 points in the fourth quarter and win the game and the reason i walk around with my head held high not because i want to be like mike but because i know who's on my side and i don't care how far down i am i don't care how much people give up on me and walk over me and step over me i know that the lord is on my side and the psalmist said not only is on my side he is my helper and i'm not afraid what man can do to me because as long as i got god on my side the odds are in my favor that means i got more with me than they got with them because god is on my side i know i'm gonna make it out of whatever situation or circumstance i may be in is there anybody in greater centennial on a sunday morning that can give god [01:08:55] (76 seconds)
so no longer do i focus on my trials in my trouble i focus on my triumph and all i come to tell about ten of y 'all stop focusing on haters and start focusing on triumph start focusing on the victory that the lord is going to give you in your life you need to tell yourself victory is on my way victory is on the way to my house victory is on the way to knock on my door victory is about to happen in my life victory is about to surround me victory is about to keep me victory is gonna matter of fact i'm changing my name my name is now called victory my name is victory victory because i'm looking over triumph on those who hate me and hate on me and i've got a new determination if you hate me that's on you [01:11:57] (49 seconds)
And so in my new determination, y 'all going to have to excuse me, because I'm going to testify. Every chance I get, I'm going to tell my testimony. See, I know that some of you have been saved all your life. You came out of your mama's womb speaking in tongues, and you've been in Sunday school, and you're singing the choir. You was on the junior usher board. You was in Sunday school. You'd learn your Easter program speech. You'd know your Christmas speech. You know all of that, but that's not my testimony. My testimony is that I've not always been saved, that although my mother drug me to church every Sunday, I have not always been saved. I've done some things in my life that I'm not proud of, but I'm grateful that the Lord brought me out of it. And I'm so glad that he brought me out of it so I can share my testimony that it doesn't make a difference how far down you are. The Lord will reach way down, and he'll pick you up, and he'll turn you around, and he'll place your feet on solid ground. I got a [01:19:27] (65 seconds)
The enemy, if he can steal your joy, he'll be the happiest person in the world. But I came to serve notice on the demon and the devil and every imp that comes with him. This joy that I have, you didn't give it to me, and you can't take it. You can't steal my joy. [01:29:07] (22 seconds)
to be determined means to have your mind so made up that nothing can change it my mind is so made up that nothing can change it from thanking God some more see before I thank God for what he done this time I want to thank him for who he is see this time I want to thank him for being God and being God all by yourself I want to thank him because he's Jehovah Jireh my provider I want to thank him because he's Jehovah Rapha the God that heals me I want to thank him because he's Jehovah Shalom he is my peace I want to [01:33:26] (40 seconds)
That we're alive Because there's more That God, I am who you say I am I'm fearfully and I'm wonderfully made That I am the apple of your eye I am the head and I'm not the tail I'm above and never beneath That I'll be blessed in the city And blessed in the field Blessed as I come And blessed as I go That everywhere the sole of my foot trot It shall be mine And it shall be blessed Everything that I put my hand to It shall be blessed Because I shall live And I have a new determination That my faith will move every mountain That God, you'll get the glory [02:02:14] (53 seconds)
Chatbot
-
I'm an AI bot trained only on this specific sermon. Do you have any questions about it?