Recharge: Finding Validation and Rest in God
Summary
### Summary
Today, we embarked on a new sermon series titled "Recharge," with a focus on the theme of "Validation." We began by acknowledging the universal human need for validation and how it impacts our relationships and self-confidence. I shared a personal story from my time as a minister of music in Boston, where I experienced a lack of validation from my lead pastor, which led to feelings of stagnation and burnout. This experience taught me the importance of rest and the need for validation from trusted sources.
We then transitioned to Psalm 23, exploring the metaphor of God as our Shepherd and us as His sheep. This relationship emphasizes our need for guidance, protection, and provision. We discussed how sheep rely on their shepherd for sustenance and rest, and how this mirrors our need for a trusting relationship with God. Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, provides us with physical, emotional, and spiritual rest, ensuring that we are well-cared for and secure.
We also touched on the importance of recognizing the voice of our Shepherd, Jesus, and following His lead. This relationship is crucial for our spiritual well-being and helps us navigate life's challenges. We concluded by emphasizing the need for rest and recharging, not just physically but spiritually, to maintain our joy and passion for serving Christ.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Importance of Validation: Validation is a fundamental human need that impacts our self-confidence and relationships. It is essential to seek validation from trusted sources, as it strengthens our confidence and encourages our efforts. This need for validation reflects God's desire for relationships and affirmation within the Trinity and with us. [24:16]
2. The Role of the Shepherd: Psalm 23 beautifully illustrates the relationship between God as our Shepherd and us as His sheep. This relationship emphasizes our need for guidance, protection, and provision. By recognizing and following the voice of our Shepherd, we find security and rest in His care. [35:27]
3. Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Rest: Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, provides us with comprehensive rest. He meets our physical needs, ensuring we feel secure to lie down in green pastures. He offers emotional rest by leading us beside still waters, and spiritual rest by restoring our souls and guiding us in paths of righteousness. [46:34]
4. The Necessity of Spiritual Retreats: Taking time to unplug and recharge is crucial for maintaining our joy and passion for serving Christ. Spiritual retreats allow us to spend time with God, listen to His voice, and rejuvenate our energy. This practice helps us align our lives with God's will and experience His peace. [30:18]
5. Developing a Personal Relationship with God: Our Shepherd knows us intimately, and it is vital for us to invest time in developing a close relationship with Him. By doing so, we can recognize His voice and follow His lead, ensuring that our decisions are guided by His wisdom and love. This relationship is the foundation of our spiritual well-being. [43:37]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[20:57] - Opening Prayer and Worship
[21:53] - Welcome to Emerge
[22:19] - Time of Giving
[23:23] - Prayer for the Offering
[24:16] - Introduction to the Series: Recharge
[25:12] - The Need for Validation
[26:41] - Personal Story: Ministry in Boston
[29:11] - The Importance of Rest
[30:18] - Spiritual Retreats and Rejuvenation
[31:29] - Validation and Relationship with God
[32:40] - The Need for Human and Divine Validation
[34:15] - Finding True Rest in Christ
[35:27] - Psalm 23: The Lord as Our Shepherd
[36:12] - Recognizing the Shepherd's Voice
[37:44] - The Role of Pastors as Shepherds
[39:20] - Divine Calling and Human Agency
[40:03] - Jesus as the Good Shepherd
[41:00] - The Relationship Between Sheep and Shepherd
[42:56] - Developing a Personal Relationship with God
[44:23] - The Sheep Hotel: Recognizing the Shepherd's Voice
[46:34] - Provision of Physical Rest
[47:27] - Feeling Safe in God's Care
[48:09] - God's Provision for the Israelites
[49:12] - Provision of Emotional Rest
[50:41] - Finding Peace in Jesus
[51:15] - Provision of Spiritual Rest
[52:57] - Improving Volunteer Experience
[55:46] - Aligning Our Daily Walk with Jesus
[58:12] - Appreciating Volunteers
[58:59] - Creating a Welcoming Environment
[59:22] - Enjoying Rest and Retreat with Jesus
[01:00:03] - Closing Prayer
[01:00:49] - Communion
[01:02:35] - Responding in Worship
[01:15:18] - Encouragement and Dismissal
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Psalm 23:1-3: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake."
2. John 10:11: "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."
3. Matthew 11:28-30: "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
### Observation Questions
1. According to Psalm 23, what are the specific ways in which the Lord, as our Shepherd, provides for us? ([35:27])
2. In John 10:11, what does Jesus mean when He says He is the "good shepherd"? How does this relate to His actions? ([40:03])
3. What does Jesus promise to those who come to Him in Matthew 11:28-30? How does this promise relate to the concept of rest? ([50:41])
4. How did the pastor's experience in Boston illustrate the need for validation and rest? ([26:41])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the metaphor of God as our Shepherd in Psalm 23 help us understand our relationship with Him? ([35:27])
2. Why is it important to recognize and follow the voice of our Shepherd, Jesus, according to John 10:11? ([40:03])
3. What are the implications of Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11:28-30 for our daily lives, especially in terms of finding rest? ([50:41])
4. How can the pastor's story about his time in Boston help us understand the importance of seeking validation from trusted sources? ([26:41])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt overlooked or unappreciated. How did it affect your self-confidence and relationships? How can you seek validation from trusted sources in the future? ([24:16])
2. In what ways can you develop a more trusting relationship with God as your Shepherd? What steps can you take to better recognize His voice? ([36:12])
3. How can you incorporate physical, emotional, and spiritual rest into your daily routine? What specific actions can you take to ensure you are recharging in these areas? ([46:34])
4. Have you ever taken a spiritual retreat? If so, how did it impact your relationship with God? If not, what might be holding you back, and how can you plan one? ([30:18])
5. Think about your current ministry or volunteer work. Are you experiencing burnout? What changes can you make to ensure you are serving out of joy rather than obligation? ([34:15])
6. How can you show appreciation and provide validation to others in your community or church? What are some practical ways to encourage and uplift those around you? ([58:12])
7. Reflect on your personal relationship with God. How can you invest more time in developing this relationship? What specific practices can help you grow closer to Him? ([43:37])
Devotional
Day 1: Seeking Validation from Trusted Sources
Validation is a fundamental human need that impacts our self-confidence and relationships. It is essential to seek validation from trusted sources, as it strengthens our confidence and encourages our efforts. This need for validation reflects God's desire for relationships and affirmation within the Trinity and with us. [24:16]
In our daily lives, we often seek validation from various sources—family, friends, colleagues, and even social media. However, not all sources of validation are beneficial or trustworthy. Seeking validation from trusted sources means turning to those who genuinely care for our well-being and align with our values. This mirrors the relationship within the Trinity, where mutual affirmation and love are foundational. Just as God desires a relationship with us, we too should seek relationships that uplift and affirm our true selves.
When we receive validation from trusted sources, it not only boosts our self-confidence but also encourages us to pursue our goals and aspirations with renewed vigor. This kind of validation is not about seeking approval for the sake of it but about finding encouragement and support that aligns with our God-given purpose. By seeking validation from those who reflect God's love and wisdom, we can navigate life's challenges with greater assurance and peace.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV): "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."
Reflection: Who are the trusted sources in your life that provide you with genuine validation? How can you seek their encouragement and support more intentionally this week?
Day 2: Recognizing the Shepherd's Voice
Psalm 23 beautifully illustrates the relationship between God as our Shepherd and us as His sheep. This relationship emphasizes our need for guidance, protection, and provision. By recognizing and following the voice of our Shepherd, we find security and rest in His care. [35:27]
The metaphor of God as our Shepherd and us as His sheep is a powerful illustration of our dependence on divine guidance. Sheep rely entirely on their shepherd for sustenance, protection, and direction. Similarly, we need to recognize and follow the voice of our Shepherd, Jesus, to navigate the complexities of life. This relationship is built on trust and familiarity, where we learn to discern His voice amidst the noise of the world.
Recognizing the Shepherd's voice requires spending time in His presence through prayer, reading Scripture, and quiet reflection. As we grow in our relationship with God, we become more attuned to His guidance and can follow His lead with confidence. This divine guidance provides us with the security and rest we need, knowing that our Shepherd is always watching over us and leading us to green pastures and still waters.
John 10:27 (ESV): "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me."
Reflection: How can you create more space in your daily routine to listen for the Shepherd's voice? What steps can you take to become more familiar with His guidance?
Day 3: Comprehensive Rest in Christ
Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, provides us with comprehensive rest. He meets our physical needs, ensuring we feel secure to lie down in green pastures. He offers emotional rest by leading us beside still waters, and spiritual rest by restoring our souls and guiding us in paths of righteousness. [46:34]
In our fast-paced world, finding true rest can be challenging. However, Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, offers us a holistic form of rest that encompasses our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Physical rest comes from knowing that we are safe and secure in His care, allowing us to lie down in green pastures without fear or anxiety. Emotional rest is found as He leads us beside still waters, calming our hearts and minds amidst life's turmoil.
Spiritual rest is perhaps the most profound, as Jesus restores our souls and guides us in paths of righteousness. This spiritual rejuvenation aligns us with God's will and purpose, providing a deep sense of peace and fulfillment. By embracing the comprehensive rest that Jesus offers, we can experience a balanced and harmonious life, free from the burdens of stress and worry.
Matthew 11:28-29 (ESV): "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to experience Jesus' comprehensive rest? How can you invite Him to provide rest for your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs today?
Day 4: The Necessity of Spiritual Retreats
Taking time to unplug and recharge is crucial for maintaining our joy and passion for serving Christ. Spiritual retreats allow us to spend time with God, listen to His voice, and rejuvenate our energy. This practice helps us align our lives with God's will and experience His peace. [30:18]
In the busyness of life, it is easy to become overwhelmed and lose sight of our spiritual well-being. Spiritual retreats offer a valuable opportunity to step away from our daily routines and focus on our relationship with God. These retreats can take various forms, from a weekend getaway to a day of solitude and prayer. The key is to create intentional space to listen to God's voice and rejuvenate our spirit.
During a spiritual retreat, we can reflect on our journey, seek God's guidance, and realign our lives with His will. This time of rest and reflection helps us to recharge our energy and renew our passion for serving Christ. By making spiritual retreats a regular practice, we can maintain a healthy balance in our lives and experience the peace and joy that comes from being in God's presence.
Mark 6:31 (ESV): "And he said to them, 'Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.' For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat."
Reflection: When was the last time you took a spiritual retreat? How can you plan a time of intentional rest and reflection with God in the coming weeks?
Day 5: Developing a Personal Relationship with God
Our Shepherd knows us intimately, and it is vital for us to invest time in developing a close relationship with Him. By doing so, we can recognize His voice and follow His lead, ensuring that our decisions are guided by His wisdom and love. This relationship is the foundation of our spiritual well-being. [43:37]
A personal relationship with God is the cornerstone of our faith and spiritual well-being. Just as a shepherd knows each of his sheep intimately, God knows us deeply and desires a close relationship with us. Developing this relationship requires intentional effort and time spent in His presence. Through prayer, reading Scripture, and worship, we can draw closer to God and deepen our understanding of His character and will.
As we invest in our relationship with God, we become more attuned to His voice and guidance. This intimacy allows us to make decisions that align with His wisdom and love, leading to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. By prioritizing our relationship with God, we lay a strong foundation for our spiritual well-being and ensure that we are walking in His paths of righteousness.
Jeremiah 29:13 (ESV): "You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart."
Reflection: What steps can you take to deepen your personal relationship with God this week? How can you create more intentional time to seek His presence and guidance?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "Validation is a natural, essential part of our human experience. It acknowledges our need for affirmation from others, but it's also showed the importance for self-confidence. Validation is about relationship, which means the source of the validation matters." [24:16] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "When we receive validation from those we trust, it strengthens our confidence, encourages our efforts, and our intrinsic desire for validation reflects God's desire for relationships and affirmation within the Trinity. God the Father, Son, the Holy Spirit. Notice there's always this unity, but also his creation, God and us, which is why God sent his Son, to create a pathway for us." [30:18] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "From the very beginning, God intended for humans to enjoy a deep, intimate relationship with him, a relationship that forms a secure foundation for our identity and worth. However, due to our fallen nature, we often experience restlessness and seek validation in ways that fall short of God's design." [31:29] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We live in a world that is constantly in motion, filled with noise and chaos. Our lives are often marked by tension and anxiety. But Jesus, our Good Shepherd, leads us to places that are quiet and calm. He invites us to slow down and find peace in His presence." [49:45] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The ultimate provision of rest that our Shepherd offers is a right relationship with God. It's about finding our identity and purpose in God and knowing that we're loved and cared for. So when our souls are weary, our souls are burdened by the weight of sin and life's challenges come, Jesus restores us." [51:15] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "When I moved on to the next church, I learned to value the importance of rest. I learned the difference between taking a vacation when I wasn't thinking about church stuff and taking a spiritual retreat when I would spend time listening and hearing God concerning the ministry that he had entrusted to me." [30:18] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "If we don't take time to unplug and recharge, our passion for serving Christ will often leave us exhausted. But what if the true rest and affirmation are found not in human recognition, and it's not that human validation isn't necessary, but we must recharge to ensure that our reason and joy in serving Christ remains." [34:15] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The necessity of the sheep and shepherd is about relationship. Regardless of the circumstances, we must recognize which relationship is in play. When we look at Psalm 23, we recognize that the shepherd is in play, Yahweh all caps." [41:57] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Our shepherd knows each of us individually because he's always there. But have we invested the time in developing a close relationship with him? John 10, 14. I am the good shepherd, and I know my sheep, and I'm known by my own." [43:37] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The provision of rest is central to the role of our shepherd. Verses two to three. So here David highlights how our shepherd provides for our physical, emotional, and spiritual needs by offering us rest and restoration." [46:34] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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