Navigating Life's Depths: Embracing Truth and Abundance

Summary

Life is a lot like swimming at the edge of the Great Barrier Reef—on one side, there’s beauty and wonder, and on the other, there’s the unknown, the deep, and the scary. God’s desire is not just that we survive this life, but that we live it abundantly, enjoying the fullness of His creation and His presence right here and now. Yet, just like the “scary sharks” lurking in the deep, there are thoughts and lies that try to pull us away from the beauty God has for us. These “shark thoughts”—deception, rebellion, manipulation, anger, and negativity—are always circling, trying to keep us from living in the truth, nobility, righteousness, purity, loveliness, and admiration that God calls us to.

Philippians 4:6-8 gives us a blueprint for our thought life: focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. But this isn’t just positive thinking; it’s a spiritual discipline, empowered by the Holy Spirit, who gives us the mind of Christ. The enemy, the father of lies, is always trying to feed us “bull”—telling us we’re not enough, we’ll never change, or that God can’t love or forgive us. But God’s Word counters every lie with truth: we are new creations, fully loved, fully forgiven, and equipped for every good work.

We also face the temptation to spin God’s truth to fit our desires, to rebel when we’re hurt, or to let small compromises latch onto us like a nurse shark that won’t let go. God calls us to a higher standard—not to take advantage of His grace, but to let it empower us to change. Even in conflict, we’re called to be peacemakers, to think lovely thoughts, and to check our attitudes so we don’t become “lemon sharks” souring the atmosphere around us.

The key is practice. None of us get this right all the time, but we’re called to keep putting these things into practice, to listen closely to the Holy Spirit, and to see life through the “goggles of faith” rather than the foggy lenses of our own understanding or the enemy’s lies. God is with us in every deep water, never leaving or forsaking us. The invitation is to surrender, to stop trying to swim on our own, and to let Jesus fill the God-sized hole in our hearts.

Key Takeaways

- The battle for our thought life is real, and the enemy’s primary weapon is deception. Every lie—whether it’s “you’re not enough” or “God can’t love you”—is countered by the truth of God’s Word. We must intentionally choose to feed on truth, not the “bull” of the enemy, and let God’s voice define our identity and worth. [42:52]

- Rebellion often masquerades as strength, but it’s really a hammerhead shark that keeps us from peace. When we’re hurt, the temptation is to retaliate or justify our actions, but true nobility is found in responding with forgiveness and integrity, even when it’s hard. Our character is revealed not by how we act in the light, but by who we are in the dark. [49:03]

- God’s standard of “right” is not up for negotiation or spin. Like the spinner shark, we can be tempted to twist God’s grace to fit our preferences, but grace is not a license to stay the same. It’s the power to change, to align our thoughts and actions with God’s Word, even when it challenges our feelings or experiences. [52:24]

- Small compromises can be deceptively dangerous, like the nurse shark that looks harmless but won’t let go once it bites. Whether it’s impurity, negativity, or justifying “little” sins, what we feed in our thought life will eventually shape our actions and our destiny. We must be vigilant, refusing to toy with things that can entangle us and pull us under. [53:11]

- The practice of fixing our thoughts on what is excellent and praiseworthy is a daily discipline, not a one-time event. It requires us to listen closely to the Holy Spirit, to see life through the “goggles of faith,” and to remember that God is with us in every deep water. Surrendering to Jesus is the only way to fill the emptiness and experience the peace and abundance He promises. [01:03:13]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[36:11] - The Great Barrier Reef and the Scary Side
[37:48] - Living Life to the Fullest Despite Fear
[39:22] - Philippians 4:6-8 and the Power of Praise
[41:02] - The Mind of Christ and True Thoughts
[41:52] - The Bull Shark: Deception and God’s Truth
[43:41] - Countering Lies with Scripture
[47:15] - Noble Thoughts vs. Hammerhead Rebellion
[49:03] - Responding to Hurt with Nobility
[50:34] - Right Thoughts and the Spinner Shark
[52:24] - Grace, Change, and Avoiding Spiritual Spin
[53:11] - Purity and the Nurse Shark’s Subtle Danger
[56:26] - Lovely Thoughts and Peace Over Conflict
[58:25] - Admirable Thoughts and the Lemon Shark
[01:00:33] - Practicing Godly Thinking
[01:02:11] - Listening to the Holy Spirit and Faith Goggles
[01:03:13] - Seeing Life Through Faith
[01:04:20] - God’s Presence in Deep Waters
[01:05:25] - Surrendering to Jesus
[01:06:16] - Invitation to Salvation and Fresh Start
[01:07:49] - Prayer and Closing

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

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### Bible Reading

Philippians 4:6-8 (NIV)
> Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
> Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Philippians 4:6-8, what are the specific things Paul tells us to focus our thoughts on? Why do you think he lists these particular qualities?
2. In the sermon, the pastor compares life to swimming at the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, with beauty on one side and the unknown on the other. What does this illustration help us understand about the Christian life? [[36:11]]
3. The sermon mentions “shark thoughts” like deception, rebellion, manipulation, anger, and negativity. What are some examples the pastor gives of these “shark thoughts” in everyday life? [[41:52]]
4. What does the pastor say is the result of practicing the discipline of focusing our thoughts on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable? [[01:00:33]]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. The pastor says the enemy’s main weapon is deception, trying to fill our minds with lies like “you’re not enough” or “God can’t love you.” Why is it so important to counter these lies with God’s Word? [[42:52]]
2. The sermon talks about rebellion as a “hammerhead shark” that keeps us from peace. How does responding to hurt with forgiveness and integrity reveal our character? [[49:03]]
3. The pastor warns against “spinning” God’s truth to fit our desires, like the spinner shark. What are some ways people might twist God’s grace, and why is this dangerous? [[52:24]]
4. The message says that small compromises, like the nurse shark, can latch onto us and not let go. Why do you think “little” sins or negative thoughts can have such a big impact over time? [[53:11]]

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### Application Questions

1. The pastor asks, “What are you feeding? God thoughts or shark thoughts?” This week, what is one “shark thought” you’ve noticed circling in your mind? How can you replace it with a truth from God’s Word? [[41:52]]
2. When you’re hurt by someone, do you tend to respond with “hammerhead” rebellion or with noble, forgiving thoughts? Can you think of a recent situation where you chose one over the other? What would it look like to respond differently next time? [[49:03]]
3. Are there areas in your life where you’ve been tempted to “spin” God’s truth to fit your preferences or justify your actions? What would it look like to let God’s standard, not your feelings, guide your choices this week? [[52:24]]
4. The nurse shark represents small compromises that seem harmless but can entangle us. Is there a “small” habit or thought pattern you’ve been justifying that you need to let go of? What step can you take to break free from it? [[53:11]]
5. The lemon shark stands for negativity and sour attitudes. How do you usually handle negative thoughts or conversations? Is there a practical way you can “check your face” and bring more positivity into your relationships this week? [[58:25]]
6. The pastor talks about seeing life through the “goggles of faith” instead of our own foggy lenses. What is one area of your life where you need to put on the goggles of faith and trust God’s perspective? [[01:03:13]]
7. The message ends with an invitation to surrender and let Jesus fill the God-sized hole in our hearts. Is there a part of your life you’re still trying to “swim on your own”? What would it look like to surrender that area to Jesus today? [[01:05:25]]

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Devotional

Day 1: Fix Your Thoughts on What Is True
God calls us to focus our minds on what is true, rooting our identity and worth in His Word rather than the lies and deceptions that swirl around us. The enemy is relentless in trying to fill our thoughts with deception, making us question if we are enough, if we can change, or if we are truly loved and forgiven. But God’s truth is unwavering: He provides all we need, makes us new creations, and assures us that nothing can separate us from His love. When you are tempted to believe the bull, remember to replace those lies with the truth of who God says you are and what He has promised. [41:52]

Philippians 4:6-8 (ESV)
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 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."

Reflection: What is one lie you’ve been believing about yourself or your circumstances? How can you intentionally replace it with God’s truth today?


Day 2: You Are Enough and Made New in Christ
When doubts creep in about your worth or your ability to change, remember that God generously provides all you need and has made you a new creation in Christ. You are not defined by your past, your failures, or the opinions of others. In Jesus, you are forgiven, loved, and empowered to live differently. God’s grace is not just enough for you—it’s more than enough, overflowing so you can bless others. Let your thoughts dwell on the sufficiency and abundance found in Him, and trust that His Spirit is at work in you, making you new every day. [44:21]

2 Corinthians 9:8 (ESV)
"And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work."

Reflection: Where do you feel “not enough” or stuck in old patterns? Ask God to show you how His grace is sufficient and how He is making you new.


Day 3: Align Your Thoughts with God’s Standards, Not the World’s
It’s easy to let the world’s opinions, feelings, or even our own desires spin the truth and take advantage of God’s grace. But God calls us to align our thoughts and actions with what is right according to His Word, not just what feels good or is popular. His grace is not a license to stay the same, but an invitation to be transformed. Examine your thoughts and motives—are you spinning God’s truth to fit your preferences, or are you letting His standards shape your life? [52:24]

2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."

Reflection: Is there an area where you’ve been “spinning” God’s truth to fit your desires? What would it look like to realign your thoughts and actions with His standards today?


Day 4: Choose Peace and Positivity Over Conflict and Negativity
God desires for us to think on what is lovely and admirable, bringing peace into our relationships and choosing positivity over negativity. When anger, conflict, or negativity threaten to take over, pause and ask how you can bring peace instead. Negativity attracts more negativity, but a mind set on God’s peace and goodness transforms not only your own heart but also the atmosphere around you. Watch your words, your reactions, and even your facial expressions—let them reflect the peace and positivity of Christ. [59:06]

Romans 8:38-39 (ESV)
"For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Reflection: In a current relationship or situation, how can you intentionally choose peace and positivity instead of reacting with anger or negativity?


Day 5: Practice Surrender and See Through the Goggles of Faith
Living the abundant life God desires for you means surrendering your own way and choosing to see life through the perspective of faith. Just as you wouldn’t dive into the ocean with foggy goggles, don’t try to navigate life with your own limited perspective. Open your heart to the Holy Spirit, take heed to His Word, and trust that Jesus is with you every step of the way—before you, behind you, and beside you. He will never leave you or forsake you, and nothing is too big or too scary for Him. Surrender your life to Him and let His peace and presence guide you. [01:06:16]

Romans 10:13 (ESV)
"For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

Reflection: What is one area of your life you’ve been trying to control or do your own way? What step can you take today to surrender it to Jesus and trust Him fully?

Quotes

Don't worry about anything. How many would love to be able to do that in life? It says, don't worry about anything. Instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and then do what? Thank him for all he has done. [00:39:04] (00:00:27 seconds) Edit Clip

The Bible says that when you step into relationship with Jesus, you receive because of the power of the Holy Spirit, the mind of Christ. So as an unbeliever, it's gonna be hard to think these ways. I'm just gonna be straight. Why? Because you're out of your mind. But as a believer, your mind has been placed into Jesus so you now have the mind of Christ. [00:40:30] (00:00:33 seconds) Edit Clip

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old is gone. The new is here. So in other words, the moment that you placed your heart and life into Jesus, you became a new creation. In other words, you changed. And because of the Holy Spirit, you have the power on the inside of you to keep changing. [00:45:12] (00:00:23 seconds) Edit Clip

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us, personalize it, separate me from the love of God that is in Christ our Lord. Lay your head down at night, my friend, with that truth, that nothing can separate you from the love of the Father. [00:46:17] (00:00:29 seconds) Edit Clip

God's grace was never a license for you and I to stay the same. It's never meant, his grace was never, he didn't die and go through everything he went through for his grace to be twisted and taken advantage of. He gave his grace to empower us to change, not stay in our spinny way of wanting things. [00:52:24] (00:00:28 seconds) Edit Clip

We need the goggles of faith. In other words, we need to look through the goggles, the perspective of how God sees things, not through the Mickey Mouse foggy goggles of how you and I like to see life or how the enemy tries to persuade us. We look through the goggles and the perspective of faith. [01:03:16] (00:00:30 seconds) Edit Clip

As cheesy as it is, how much more confidence should we have knowing that our Savior is with us every step of the way? He's swimming in this life with us. He goes before us. He's behind us. He's beside us. He's all around us. The Bible says that he will never leave you or forsake you. He won't give up on you. He won't walk out on you. Let me tell you what God is not scared of, sharks. He created them. They have to bow to his name as everything else in this earth has to bow to his name. [01:04:36] (00:00:37 seconds) Edit Clip

I just wonder how many people in here today, maybe even, where you've yet to surrender over your life to Jesus because you're trying to do things your own way, on your own time, through your own lens. And I just want to ask you, how's that working for you? Is something missing? Because oftentimes, what's missing is a God -sized hole that only he can fill. [01:05:41] (00:00:30 seconds) Edit Clip