Praising God Through Trials: Key Relationships for Fathers
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today is a historic day for our church as we record our first original worship song. This song, inspired by Psalm 34, is a testament to praising God at all times, especially during difficult moments. David wrote this Psalm during one of the lowest points in his life, and it serves as a reminder that our praise should be constant, regardless of our circumstances. When we lift our voices in praise, God strengthens and renews us.
I shared a personal story about finding strength in singing to the Lord during my father's illness. This experience led to the creation of our original song, which we hope will bless many. Fathers, lifting our hands in worship is one of the most manly and intelligent positions we can take. It renews and strengthens us, and today, as we sing together, we invite the Holy Spirit to come, renew, and heal us.
We also discussed the impact of our giving, which is an act of worship and allows the church to bless many lives. I encouraged everyone to partner with us in giving to facilitate more miracles. Additionally, we addressed some community issues, including the installation of large power poles and the fentanyl epidemic affecting our youth. We prayed for these situations, asking God to bring change and protection.
Our Tanzania mission team is leaving soon, and we prayed for their safety and success. We then delved into the main topic: three key relationships for fathers to succeed, based on 1 Samuel 19. These relationships are:
1. A Jonathan Relationship: A godly friend who warns and intercedes for us.
2. A Michael Relationship: A loving wife who gives good advice and helps us overcome challenges.
3. A Samuel Relationship: A faithful pastor who teaches God's will and relies on the Holy Spirit.
These relationships are crucial for success, and I encouraged everyone to lean into these connections. We concluded with a prayer for strength and guidance, followed by a worship song and a reminder of the importance of being born again.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Praise in Difficult Times: David's Psalm 34 teaches us to bless the Lord at all times, especially during hardships. When we lift our voices in praise, God strengthens and renews us. This act of worship is not just for moments of joy but is crucial during our lowest points, as it brings divine strength and clarity. [20:17]
2. The Importance of Godly Friendships: A Jonathan relationship is vital for fathers to succeed. A godly friend warns us about potential pitfalls and intercedes on our behalf. Such friendships do not happen by accident; they require effort and commitment. Treasure friends who speak truth into your life, even when it's hard to hear. [45:31]
3. The Role of a Loving Wife: A Michael relationship, characterized by a loving wife, is essential. She provides good counsel and actively helps her husband overcome challenges. Wives, your words and actions can either build up or tear down your home. Speak life and confidence into your husband, and support him tangibly in his struggles. [53:18]
4. The Need for Spiritual Guidance: A Samuel relationship, or having a faithful pastor, is crucial. Pastors teach and clarify God's will and rely on the Holy Spirit to bring help and direction. Regularly engaging with your pastor and leaning into their teachings can provide the spiritual guidance needed to navigate life's challenges. [01:02:05]
5. The Call to Be Born Again: Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus emphasizes the necessity of being born again to inherit the kingdom of heaven. This spiritual rebirth is essential for a transformed life. If you feel the Holy Spirit drawing you, respond to His call and seek prayer and guidance to experience this new birth. [01:14:59]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[17:54] - Recording Our First Original Worship Song
[18:29] - Context from Psalm 34
[19:16] - Personal Story and Strength in Praise
[20:17] - The Power of Praise in Difficult Times
[21:21] - Prayer for Renewal and Strength
[29:48] - The Impact of Giving
[34:34] - Community Announcements
[38:13] - Prayer for Community Issues
[39:27] - Praying for the Tanzania Mission Team
[40:33] - Three Key Relationships for Fathers
[45:31] - The Importance of Godly Friendships
[49:58] - The Role of a Loving Wife
[53:18] - Supporting Your Husband
[01:02:05] - The Need for Spiritual Guidance
[01:07:27] - Prayer for Strength and Guidance
[01:14:04] - The Call to Be Born Again
[01:16:17] - Closing Blessing
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Psalm 34:1-3: "I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!"
2. 1 Samuel 19:1-3: "And Saul spoke to Jonathan his son and to all his servants, that they should kill David. But Jonathan, Saul's son, delighted much in David. And Jonathan told David, 'Saul my father seeks to kill you. Therefore be on your guard in the morning. Stay in a secret place and hide yourself.'"
3. 1 Samuel 19:11-12: "Saul sent messengers to David's house to watch him, that he might kill him in the morning. But Michal, David's wife, told him, 'If you do not escape with your life tonight, tomorrow you will be killed.' So Michal let David down through the window, and he fled away and escaped."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Psalm 34:1-3, when should we bless the Lord, and what is the significance of this continual praise?
2. In 1 Samuel 19:1-3, what actions did Jonathan take to protect David from Saul's intent to kill him?
3. How did Michal help David escape from Saul's messengers in 1 Samuel 19:11-12?
4. What personal story did the pastor share about finding strength in singing to the Lord during a difficult time? [19:16]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Psalm 34:1-3 illustrate the power of praise during difficult times, and why is it important to maintain this practice?
2. What characteristics of a godly friend can we learn from Jonathan's actions in 1 Samuel 19:1-3, and how can these characteristics be applied in our own friendships? [45:31]
3. In what ways did Michal's actions in 1 Samuel 19:11-12 demonstrate her love and support for David, and how can this be a model for spousal relationships? [53:18]
4. How does the pastor's story about his father's illness and the creation of the original worship song relate to the theme of finding strength in praise? [19:16]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult situation. How did praising God help you through it, or how might it have helped if you had done so? [20:17]
2. Identify a friend in your life who acts as a Jonathan. How can you nurture and strengthen this relationship to ensure mutual support and godly counsel? [45:31]
3. For those who are married, how can you actively support and encourage your spouse in their challenges, similar to how Michal supported David? [53:18]
4. Consider the role of your pastor or spiritual leader in your life. How can you better engage with their teachings and seek their guidance in your spiritual journey? [01:02:05]
5. The pastor emphasized the importance of being born again. Have you experienced this spiritual rebirth, and if not, what steps can you take to explore this further? [01:14:59]
6. How can you contribute to your community and church through acts of giving and service, as discussed in the sermon? [29:48]
7. Reflect on the community issues mentioned, such as the fentanyl epidemic. How can you be an active participant in addressing these challenges through prayer and action? [34:34]
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Praise in Difficult Times
David's Psalm 34 teaches us to bless the Lord at all times, especially during hardships. When we lift our voices in praise, God strengthens and renews us. This act of worship is not just for moments of joy but is crucial during our lowest points, as it brings divine strength and clarity. David wrote this Psalm during one of the lowest points in his life, and it serves as a reminder that our praise should be constant, regardless of our circumstances. When we lift our voices in praise, God strengthens and renews us. This act of worship is not just for moments of joy but is crucial during our lowest points, as it brings divine strength and clarity. [20:17]
Psalm 34:1-3 (ESV): "I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!"
Reflection: Think of a recent difficult situation you faced. How did you respond? Can you take a moment today to praise God for His presence and strength during that time?
Day 2: The Importance of Godly Friendships
A Jonathan relationship is vital for fathers to succeed. A godly friend warns us about potential pitfalls and intercedes on our behalf. Such friendships do not happen by accident; they require effort and commitment. Treasure friends who speak truth into your life, even when it's hard to hear. Godly friendships are a source of strength and guidance. They provide a support system that helps us navigate life's challenges. These relationships are built on mutual trust, respect, and a shared commitment to following God's will. [45:31]
Proverbs 27:17 (ESV): "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another."
Reflection: Identify a godly friend in your life who has been a source of strength and guidance. How can you invest in this relationship to make it even stronger?
Day 3: The Role of a Loving Wife
A Michael relationship, characterized by a loving wife, is essential. She provides good counsel and actively helps her husband overcome challenges. Wives, your words and actions can either build up or tear down your home. Speak life and confidence into your husband, and support him tangibly in his struggles. A loving wife is a partner in every sense, offering wisdom, encouragement, and practical help. Her role is crucial in creating a supportive and nurturing environment where her husband can thrive. [53:18]
Proverbs 31:10-12 (ESV): "An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life."
Reflection: If you are married, think about how you can support your spouse more effectively. What specific actions can you take today to show your love and encouragement?
Day 4: The Need for Spiritual Guidance
A Samuel relationship, or having a faithful pastor, is crucial. Pastors teach and clarify God's will and rely on the Holy Spirit to bring help and direction. Regularly engaging with your pastor and leaning into their teachings can provide the spiritual guidance needed to navigate life's challenges. Spiritual guidance helps us stay aligned with God's will and provides the wisdom needed to make important decisions. It is essential to seek out and maintain relationships with those who can offer this kind of support. [01:02:05]
Hebrews 13:17 (ESV): "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you."
Reflection: Reflect on your relationship with your pastor or spiritual mentor. How can you engage more deeply with their teachings and seek their guidance in your spiritual journey?
Day 5: The Call to Be Born Again
Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus emphasizes the necessity of being born again to inherit the kingdom of heaven. This spiritual rebirth is essential for a transformed life. If you feel the Holy Spirit drawing you, respond to His call and seek prayer and guidance to experience this new birth. Being born again is a transformative experience that marks the beginning of a new life in Christ. It is a call to leave behind the old ways and embrace a new identity as a child of God. [01:14:59]
John 3:3-5 (ESV): "Jesus answered him, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.' Nicodemus said to him, 'How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?' Jesus answered, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.'"
Reflection: Have you experienced the spiritual rebirth that Jesus spoke about? If not, what steps can you take today to seek this transformation and begin a new life in Christ?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Here's the thing. We don't just praise the Lord when everything's going right. When we really need to praise the Lord is when it's difficult. Because when we lift our praise and song to the Lord, He strengthens us and He renews our strength again." (18 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to receive and this is what I know about you, you my friend, you're blessed. Listen. Thank you for your generosity. Hey, if you're out there, I want to ask you a question. Are you partnering with us? If not, why not download the app and start today? Today, we could start facilitating more miracles together." (20 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "There's literally an epidemic going around in our nation right now, and it has to do with this drug called fentanyl. And it's not just the nation. It's not just Virginia, but specifically Loudoun County. Let me give you just one idea. I was unaware. I didn't hear this, but just one of our schools, one high school in one month had eight overdoses. That's just one high school." (25 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Intercession is when somebody goes to someone who has the ability to make a difference on behalf of someone else. Are you here? I'm going to someone who has the power, authority, or whatever it is to make a difference, and I'm going to step in between that person and intercede on their behalf and come in between. We all need a friend like Jonathan who will say this. I will speak to my father on your behalf." (30 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You must hear the words of Jesus. You must be born again. Have you been born again? That's what I want to ask you. Pastor Charlie, I want to. I'm not going to lie to you. I'm not sure how to do that. The hope team's all down front here. We would love to pray with you. Not just about that. If there's anything that you're going through, you need the help of God." (22 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "David here, the context of him writing that song that you just read, he was in one of the most lowest moments in his life. And he spins this song. Lord, I will bless you at all times. Your praise is always going to be on my mouth. Here's the thing. We don't just praise the Lord when everything's going right. When we really need to praise the Lord is when it's difficult. Because when we lift our praise and song to the Lord, He strengthens us and He renews our strength again." (18 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The first relationship for fathers to succeed is a Jonathan relationship. What is a Jonathan relationship? A Jonathan relationship is a godly friend. In our lives, a godly friend. Now, the bulk of the Old Testament is written about this one figure, David. Incredible story about how a shepherd boy eventually becomes the second king of Israel, defeats Goliath, all kind of stories about David. In fact, David's a mighty warrior. He writes most of the Psalms that we have in our Bibles. But there would be no David, listen to me, there would be no David without a Jonathan relationship." (41 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Are we genuinely open to the advice or counsel of our wives? Wives, let me ask you this question. How are you, how are you advising your husband? Better yet, let me think about it like this. What are the words that you're speaking into his ear? They're not staying just in his ear, but they're going down into his heart, into his soul. I was reminded of a story of a brother that came to see me, just stepped out in his business. It was probably about maybe eight months, maybe a year into it. Leveraged everything, just literally stepped out and it wasn't going well. Nothing was happening. No contracts coming in. Getting ready to lose everything. Just looked bad, looked bad, bad." (49 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "A wise woman, builds her home. You guys stopped reading, didn't you? Is it not up there? You're just like, I'm not reading that. A wise woman, what? But, but a fool, with my own hands, I'm going to start. I'm just been praying for this moment right now. We could, we could just stop right here. Lord, heal our marriages. A fool will tear it down with my own hands. We say, Pastor Charlie, I don't, I've never heard this before. I don't, how do I build my home? How do I build my husband? How do I, you know, one thing you could do is, you can start interceding on his behalf to someone who can actually do something about it. God, that's prayer. I'll speak to my father on your behalf, and I'm going to speak well of you to him. Lord, I pray for Believe in him. Pray for success." (75 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I can't help but think that some of us in here, you're in this room because you're fleeing a situation. Whatever it is, Lord, I've come to your house. By the way, that last question to consider is, are you taking the relationship of a pastor seriously? I think I said it differently in your notes, but I'm not in front of my notes. Is it up there? Are you taking advantage a pastoral relationship? By the way, just go ahead and put yes in your notes because you're here. You get 100% right there, taking advantage of it. I have the unbelievable privilege about 35, 40 times a year to, stand up here and teach for 30 minutes. Other pastors fill in for the remainder of the time, for the year, but we get an awesome privilege to stand up here and speak." (58 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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