Living Out Faith: From Fear to Encouragement
Summary
Encouragement is a powerful force in our lives, and it’s something that God has woven into the very fabric of our faith. From the prayers of a faithful mother to the daily acts of kindness we show to strangers, encouragement is both a gift we receive and a calling we live out. The heart of our walk with Jesus is not just about what we believe, but about how we live out that belief—how we let the joy of the Lord overflow in our actions, our words, and our attitudes, even in the small things like holding a door open or singing a simple song of praise.
We are called to rejoice always, to be full of joy, and to let that joy be visible to everyone around us. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a reflection of who we are in Christ. Our lives are meant to be testimonies of God’s goodness, marked by truth, honor, purity, and love. When we focus on what is true—on the promises and character of God—instead of the shifting facts and fears of our circumstances, we find peace that surpasses understanding.
Life is full of “what ifs”—uncertainties, anxieties, and fears about the future. But faith calls us to move from “what if” to “even if.” Like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, we are invited to trust God not just when things are certain, but even if the outcome is unclear or the fire is hot. Faith is not denial of reality; it is the choice to exalt God’s truth above our circumstances. It’s about standing firm, not drifting away, and remembering that God is the author and finisher of our faith.
God’s faithfulness is not bound by time or circumstance. He is the God who was, who is, and who is to come. Every day is a new opportunity to trust Him, to let Him hold all things together in our lives, and to live with hope for the future. Our story is still being written, and Jesus is the author. No matter what we face, we can have patient endurance, knowing that Christ is in us—the hope of glory. Let’s live in the “what is” of God’s promises, not the “what if” of our fears, and let our lives be marked by faith, hope, and love.
Key Takeaways
- Encouragement is both a gift and a calling. The prayers and words of encouragement from those who love us—especially mothers—are often the seeds of faith that take root in our lives. But as followers of Jesus, we are all called to be encouragers, letting the joy and love of Christ overflow in our daily interactions, no matter how small or ordinary they may seem. [33:35]
- Faith is about focusing on what is true, not just what is factual. The facts of our circumstances may be daunting, but God’s truth is greater. When we fix our thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, and admirable, we align our hearts with God’s perspective and experience His peace, even in the midst of uncertainty. [40:58]
- Moving from “what if” to “even if” is the journey of mature faith. Life’s anxieties and fears often stem from dwelling on “what if” scenarios, but God calls us to an “even if” faith—a trust that stands firm regardless of the outcome. This kind of faith is rooted in the unchanging character of God, who is always good and always faithful. [42:27]
- God is the author and finisher of our faith, and He holds all things together. Our lives are not random or out of control; Jesus is writing our story, and He is present in every moment—past, present, and future. Even when we feel weak or uncertain, His strength is made perfect in our weakness, and He is always working in us mightily. [01:01:08]
- Patient endurance is essential for the journey. The Christian life is not about avoiding hardship, but about remaining faithful “even if” things are difficult. We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who have gone before us, and we are called to run our race with endurance, keeping our eyes on Jesus and refusing to let sin or distraction cling to us. [01:14:19]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[33:35] - The Power of Encouragement
[34:33] - Partners in the Gospel
[35:32] - Rejoicing and Joy in Christ
[36:20] - Living Out Consideration and Joy
[37:40] - Don’t Worry, Be Happy: Joy in the Heart
[38:56] - Recognizing God’s Spirit in Everyday Life
[40:58] - Fixing Our Thoughts on What Is True
[42:27] - From “What If” to “Even If” Faith
[44:28] - The Danger of Living on the Fence
[48:09] - Casting Our Cares and Running the Race
[49:27] - Trusting God’s Goodness Over the Facts
[53:07] - Knowing God’s Will and Living in Faith
[54:20] - Returning to Our Firm Foundation
[59:05] - Faith That Exalts God Above Circumstances
[01:01:08] - God Holds All Things Together
[01:07:16] - Christ in You: The Hope of Glory
[01:14:19] - Running with Endurance and Shedding Distractions
[01:17:28] - Who Is Writing Your Story?
[01:20:52] - Childlike Faith and True Hope
[01:22:50] - Prayer of Salvation and Closing
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: Living in the “What Is” of God’s Promises
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### Bible Reading
- Philippians 4:4-9
(Rejoice in the Lord always, let your gentleness be evident, do not be anxious, think on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable.)
- Daniel 3:16-18
(Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego’s “even if” faith in the fiery furnace.)
- Hebrews 12:1-2
(Let us run with endurance the race set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.)
---
### Observation Questions
1. In Philippians 4, what are some of the specific instructions Paul gives about our attitude and thought life?
2. According to Daniel 3, how do Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego respond to the threat of the fiery furnace? What do they say about God’s ability to save them?
3. In Hebrews 12:1-2, what are believers told to do with “every weight and sin”? Who are we supposed to look to as we run our race?
4. The sermon mentions that encouragement is both a gift and a calling. What are some examples given of how encouragement can look in everyday life? [[33:35]]
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Paul repeats the command to “rejoice in the Lord always”? What does it mean for joy to be visible to others? [[36:20]]
2. The sermon talks about moving from “what if” to “even if” faith. What is the difference between these two mindsets, and why is it important for our spiritual growth? [[42:27]]
3. According to the sermon, what does it mean to “fix our thoughts on what is true” instead of just focusing on the facts of our circumstances? [[40:58]]
4. Hebrews 12 says to “throw aside every weight and sin” and “run with endurance.” What kinds of things might be “weights” or “distractions” in our lives today? [[01:14:19]]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon says encouragement is both a gift and a calling. Who has encouraged you in your faith journey, and how can you intentionally encourage someone else this week—even in a small way? [[33:35]]
2. Paul says to “rejoice always” and “let your gentleness be evident to all.” Is there a situation in your life right now where it’s hard to show joy or gentleness? What would it look like to let the joy of the Lord overflow in that situation? [[36:20]]
3. The sermon challenges us to move from “what if” to “even if” faith. What is one “what if” fear or anxiety you’ve been holding onto? How can you begin to trust God with it, even if the outcome is uncertain? [[42:27]]
4. When you face uncertainty or hardship, do you tend to focus more on the facts of your situation or on God’s truth and promises? What is one practical way you can remind yourself of God’s truth this week? [[40:58]]
5. The message says that God is the author and finisher of our faith, and that He holds all things together. Is there an area of your life where you feel out of control or like things are falling apart? How can you invite Jesus to “hold it together” for you? [[01:01:08]]
6. Hebrews 12 talks about running our race with endurance and shedding distractions. What is one distraction or “weight” you need to lay aside to better follow Jesus right now? [[01:14:19]]
7. The sermon ends by reminding us that our story is still being written and that Jesus is the author. If you could write the next chapter of your faith story, what would you want it to say? What step can you take this week to move in that direction? [[01:17:28]]
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Close in prayer, asking God to help each person live in the “what is” of His promises, to encourage others, and to trust Him with both the known and unknown parts of their story.
Devotional
Day 1: Rejoice and Find Joy in the Lord Always
True joy is not dependent on circumstances but is rooted in the presence of Jesus within us. When we choose to rejoice, even in the midst of challenges, we reflect the encouragement and hope that comes from knowing our names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. This joy is visible to others in our actions, whether it’s holding a door open or simply sharing a smile, and it becomes a testimony of the good news of Jesus Christ. Let your life be marked by joy, consideration, and the assurance that the Lord is near, so that others may see Christ in you and be drawn to His love. [36:20]
Philippians 4:4-7 (NLT)
"Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."
Reflection: What is one way you can intentionally show the joy of Christ to someone around you today, even if your circumstances are difficult?
Day 2: Fix Your Thoughts on What Is True
Our minds are often tempted to dwell on worries, offenses, or the “what ifs” of life, but God calls us to focus on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. When we practice thinking on these things, we align our hearts with God’s truth rather than the shifting facts or fears of the world. This discipline not only brings peace but also shapes us into living testimonies of Christ’s character, allowing His peace to guard our hearts and minds as we continue to put His Word into practice. [40:58]
Philippians 4:8-9 (NLT)
"And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you."
Reflection: What negative or anxious thought can you replace today with a truth from God’s Word, and how will you remind yourself to focus on it?
Day 3: Faith That Stands—Even If
Faith is not just believing when things are easy, but standing firm even if circumstances are uncertain or difficult. Like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and the many heroes of faith, we are called to trust God’s goodness and power regardless of the outcome. This “even if” faith does not deny the reality of hardship but chooses to exalt God’s truth and promises above fear, knowing that He is always with us, never leaving or forsaking us, and that our endurance will be rewarded. [56:22]
Hebrews 10:32-36 (NLT)
"Think back on those early days when you first learned about Christ. Remember how you remained faithful even though it meant terrible suffering. Sometimes you were exposed to public ridicule and were beaten, and sometimes you helped others who were suffering the same things. You suffered along with those who were thrown into jail, and when all you owned was taken from you, you accepted it with joy. You knew there were better things waiting for you that will last forever. So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised."
Reflection: Where in your life do you need to move from “what if” to “even if,” trusting God’s faithfulness no matter what happens?
Day 4: Christ Holds All Things Together
No matter how chaotic life may seem, Jesus is before all things and in Him all things hold together. He is the foundation that keeps your family, your peace, your mind, and your very life secure. Even when you feel weak or overwhelmed, remember that Christ is in your boat—He is present, sustaining you, and working mightily within you. Stand firm in this truth, continue to believe, and do not drift away, for He is the author and sustainer of your faith and your story. [01:03:57]
Colossians 1:17, 21-23 (NLT)
"He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together... This includes you who were once far away from God. You were his enemies, separated from him by your evil thoughts and actions. Yet now he has reconciled you to himself through the death of Christ in his physical body. As a result, he has brought you into his own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault. But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don’t drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News."
Reflection: What area of your life feels out of control, and how can you invite Jesus to hold it together today by trusting Him more deeply?
Day 5: Live with Hope—Christ Is the Author and Finisher
God is the God of your history, the strength of your now, and the hope of your forever. He is writing your story, and His plans for you are good—full of hope, purpose, and blessing. Even as your outward circumstances change, His love and faithfulness remain constant. Like a child anticipating running the bases after a game, live with the confident hope that Jesus has promised you a future with Him, and let that hope fuel your faith and endurance each day. [01:10:43]
Hebrews 12:1-2 (NLT)
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne."
Reflection: What is one hope or promise from God that you need to reclaim and hold onto today, trusting that He is still writing your story?
Quotes
He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. Wow! All things hold together. My family holds together. My finances hold together. My peace holds together. My mind holds together. My strength holds together. My healing holds together. He holds everything together. Oh, why? Because He's got the whole world in His hands. [01:01:39] (28 seconds)
Colossians 1, 27 -29 says, to whom God would make known what is. God is going to make known what is. The riches of the glory of his mystery among the Gentiles. You're a Gentile if you didn't know that. Which is Christ in you. Wow. The hope of glory. Christ in you, the hope of glory. Have hope. Have hope. [01:07:09] (30 seconds)
Who is writing your story? Who's writing your story? And I pray it's Jesus Christ who is writing your story. Because He is the author and the finisher of my faith. He is not the author of confusion, but He is the author of peace. And I decide to stay in the kingdom of God, which is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. [01:17:28] (29 seconds)
Even if faith doesn't deny the facts. It chooses to exalt faith above them. Not denying one bit that we lost yesterday, Trent. Poppy? Angel? I'm not denying one bit that we lost. I'm not going to apologize. Did it suck? Yes. Was there tears? Yes. Am I have to fight them back right now? Yes. That is the truth. That's how loyal and good our God is. [00:59:13] (67 seconds)
But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. You must continue to believe the truth. But I believe that the storms of life are coming in, the water's coming in the boat, the boat's going down, and my Jesus is But you know what? Go wake Him up. You know what the key is? He's in your boat. [01:04:08] (34 seconds)
There's an even if an increasing faith. Moses had an increasing faith. Even if there's a sea in front of me, I'm going to listen and do what God says to do. I'm going to lift up my arms. And I'm going to see the Red Sea pulled back. Even if Pharaoh is coming to take back what he gave us. [01:11:36] (17 seconds)
My body is weak, but my God is strong. My God is faithful. Say it ain't so, or say it is so, it don't matter, because I know the redeemed of the Lord said so. Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weakness, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. [01:13:48] (24 seconds)
If you have increased anxiety, when did we stop casting our anxiety on Jesus? But what if it doesn't come back? When did we stop casting our anxiety, our cares, the troubles of this world upon Jesus? When did we stop that? Because we wouldn't answer what if. It would be an even if. [00:48:13] (23 seconds)
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