Renewed Strength Through Waiting and Community
Summary
### Summary
Today, we took a moment to pause and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to us, emphasizing the importance of waiting on the Lord to renew our strength. Isaiah's words remind us that those who wait upon the Lord will find their strength renewed, enabling them to run without growing weary and walk without fainting. This renewal is essential for our daily lives, especially when waiting feels like the hardest thing to do. We also celebrated the power of community and the importance of being part of a spiritual family. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time member, engaging with the church community can transform your life in ways you never imagined.
We also discussed the importance of seeing ourselves as God sees us. Gideon's story in Judges 6 illustrates this beautifully. Despite his circumstances, God called Gideon a "mighty hero" and assured him that the Lord was with him. This declaration of identity is crucial for us as well. We often focus on the issues in front of us, but God wants us to see ourselves through His eyes—strong, capable, and victorious. This shift in perspective can change everything, enabling us to take bold, faith-filled steps that we would never have considered before.
We also shared testimonies of God's miraculous works, from healing physical ailments to restoring broken relationships. These stories serve as powerful reminders that God is still in the business of performing miracles. When we align our perspective with God's, we begin to see every challenge as an opportunity for His glory to be revealed. The key takeaway is that the Lord is with us, and this truth should transform how we approach every aspect of our lives.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Waiting on the Lord: Isaiah teaches us that those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength. This renewal is not just physical but also spiritual and emotional. Waiting on God can be challenging, but it is in these moments of stillness that we find our greatest refreshment and strength. [19:03]
2. Community and Transformation: Being part of a spiritual family can transform your life. Engaging with the church community, participating in activities, and building relationships can lead to profound personal and spiritual growth. A year of committed involvement can result in seeing God's blessings in ways you never imagined. [24:12]
3. Seeing Ourselves Through God's Eyes: Gideon's story reminds us that God sees us differently than we see ourselves. While we may feel weak and insignificant, God calls us mighty heroes. Understanding our true identity in Christ empowers us to take bold, faith-filled steps. [29:16]
4. Miracles and Testimonies: Sharing testimonies of God's miraculous works builds faith and encourages us to believe for our own miracles. Whether it's healing from illness, restoration of relationships, or overcoming personal struggles, God's power is still at work today. [36:07]
5. The Lord is With You: The most transformative truth is that the Lord is with us. This assurance changes how we face challenges and approach life. Knowing that God is with us gives us the confidence to see every situation as an opportunity for His glory to be revealed. [41:35]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[19:03] - The Power of Waiting on the Lord
[19:55] - The Challenge of Waiting
[20:59] - Prayer and Vulnerability
[22:52] - Trusting God's Plan Amidst Challenges
[24:12] - Community and Transformation
[25:24] - Engaging with the Church Community
[26:37] - Celebrating Acts of Service
[27:55] - The Importance of Each Part
[29:16] - Seeing Ourselves Through God's Eyes
[30:40] - Rising Hunger for God
[32:00] - Unity in the Mission
[33:29] - The Power of a Few
[34:47] - Miracles and Testimonies
[36:07] - God's Miraculous Works
[37:39] - Progressive and Spontaneous Miracles
[38:55] - Believing in God's Power
[40:06] - Rejecting Doubt and Embracing Faith
[41:35] - The Lord is With You
[42:56] - Confessing What We Believe
[44:29] - Hope for Victory
[45:50] - Responding to God's Stirring
[47:23] - Praying for Healing
[53:53] - Testing and Confirming Healing
[55:19] - Teaching on Identity
[56:49] - Gideon's Story
[58:24] - The Importance of Identity
[01:01:13] - True Peace and Value
[01:03:46] - Reality Check for Gideon
[01:05:12] - The Cycle of Defeat
[01:07:19] - Jesus' Declaration to Gideon
[01:10:02] - Gideon's Response
[01:12:06] - Knowing Who We Are
[01:13:49] - Gideon's Doubts
[01:15:16] - Overcoming Abandonment Identity
[01:17:27] - The Lord is With You
[01:19:22] - Seeing God in Our Circumstances
[01:21:30] - Spoiler Alert: Gideon Wins
[01:22:01] - Responding to God's Word
[01:23:23] - Renewing Our Minds
[01:25:04] - Blazing a New Path
[01:26:30] - Action Steps for Change
[01:27:29] - Prayer for Boldness and Next Steps
[01:27:59] - Declaration: The Lord is With Me
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Isaiah 40:31 (NLT): "But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint."
2. Judges 6:12 (NLT): "The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, 'Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!'"
3. 2 Corinthians 4:13 (NLT): "But we continue to preach because we have the same kind of faith the psalmist had when he said, 'I believed in God, so I spoke.'"
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Isaiah 40:31, what are the benefits of waiting on the Lord?
2. In Judges 6:12, how does the angel of the Lord address Gideon, and what does this reveal about God's perspective of him?
3. What does 2 Corinthians 4:13 suggest about the relationship between belief and speech?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think waiting on the Lord is described as renewing strength in Isaiah 40:31? How does this apply to our daily lives? [19:03]
2. How does Gideon's initial reaction to the angel's greeting in Judges 6:12 reflect his current state of mind and circumstances? [59:43]
3. In 2 Corinthians 4:13, Paul connects belief with speaking. How does this principle apply to sharing testimonies and building faith within the community? [41:35]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt weary or faint. How did waiting on the Lord help you during that period? If you haven't experienced this, how can you start practicing waiting on the Lord in your current situation? [19:55]
2. Gideon saw himself as weak and insignificant, but God called him a "mighty hero." How do you think God sees you, and how does this differ from your own self-perception? What steps can you take to align your view of yourself with God's view? [59:43]
3. The sermon emphasized the power of community and being part of a spiritual family. How can you become more engaged with your church community? What specific actions can you take to build deeper relationships within the church? [24:12]
4. Testimonies of God's miraculous works were shared to build faith. Do you have a testimony of God's work in your life that you can share with others? How can sharing your story encourage someone else in their faith journey? [36:07]
5. The assurance that "the Lord is with you" was a key takeaway. How does this truth change the way you face your current challenges? Can you identify a specific situation where you need to remind yourself that God is with you? [41:35]
6. The sermon mentioned the importance of seeing every challenge as an opportunity for God's glory to be revealed. Can you think of a current challenge in your life that you can reframe as an opportunity for God to work? How will this change your approach to the situation? [40:06]
7. How can you cultivate a habit of speaking life and faith, as encouraged in 2 Corinthians 4:13? What practical steps can you take to ensure your words align with your beliefs and build up those around you? [41:35]
Devotional
Day 1: Renewed Strength Through Waiting
Waiting on the Lord is a powerful act of faith that brings renewal. Isaiah teaches us that those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength. This renewal is not just physical but also spiritual and emotional. Waiting on God can be challenging, but it is in these moments of stillness that we find our greatest refreshment and strength. When we pause and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to us, we are reminded of God's promises and His faithfulness. This act of waiting is essential for our daily lives, especially when waiting feels like the hardest thing to do.
In our fast-paced world, waiting can seem counterproductive, but it is in these moments that God works most profoundly. By waiting on the Lord, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and open ourselves to His divine intervention. This period of waiting is not passive but active, filled with prayer, reflection, and trust in God's timing. As we wait, we are strengthened, enabling us to run without growing weary and walk without fainting. This renewal is a testament to God's sustaining power in our lives. [19:03]
Isaiah 40:31 (ESV): "But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to wait on the Lord today? How can you actively engage in this waiting period through prayer and reflection?
Day 2: Transformation Through Community
Being part of a spiritual family can transform your life. Engaging with the church community, participating in activities, and building relationships can lead to profound personal and spiritual growth. A year of committed involvement can result in seeing God's blessings in ways you never imagined. The power of community lies in its ability to support, encourage, and uplift each member. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time member, the church community offers a space for growth and transformation.
The importance of community is evident in the way it shapes our faith and character. By being part of a spiritual family, we are surrounded by individuals who share our beliefs and values, providing a support system that helps us navigate life's challenges. This sense of belonging fosters a deeper connection with God and with each other, creating an environment where we can thrive spiritually. Engaging with the church community allows us to experience God's love and grace in tangible ways, transforming our lives from the inside out. [24:12]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: How can you actively engage with your church community this week? What steps can you take to build deeper relationships within your spiritual family?
Day 3: Embracing Our God-Given Identity
Gideon's story reminds us that God sees us differently than we see ourselves. While we may feel weak and insignificant, God calls us mighty heroes. Understanding our true identity in Christ empowers us to take bold, faith-filled steps. Gideon, despite his circumstances, was called a "mighty hero" by God, who assured him that the Lord was with him. This declaration of identity is crucial for us as well. We often focus on the issues in front of us, but God wants us to see ourselves through His eyes—strong, capable, and victorious.
This shift in perspective can change everything. When we embrace our God-given identity, we are no longer held back by our insecurities and doubts. Instead, we are empowered to step out in faith, trusting that God is with us and will guide us. This new understanding of who we are in Christ enables us to face challenges with confidence and courage, knowing that we are not alone. By seeing ourselves through God's eyes, we can live out our true potential and fulfill the purpose He has for our lives. [29:16]
Judges 6:12 (ESV): "And the angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, 'The Lord is with you, O mighty man of valor.'"
Reflection: What negative labels or beliefs about yourself do you need to let go of? How can you start seeing yourself through God's eyes today?
Day 4: Witnessing God's Miraculous Works
Sharing testimonies of God's miraculous works builds faith and encourages us to believe for our own miracles. Whether it's healing from illness, restoration of relationships, or overcoming personal struggles, God's power is still at work today. These stories serve as powerful reminders that God is still in the business of performing miracles. When we align our perspective with God's, we begin to see every challenge as an opportunity for His glory to be revealed.
Testimonies of God's miraculous works are not just stories of the past but are ongoing evidence of His power and love. By sharing these testimonies, we inspire others to trust in God's ability to intervene in their lives. These accounts of divine intervention remind us that no situation is too difficult for God. As we hear and share these stories, our faith is strengthened, and we are encouraged to believe that God can and will work miracles in our own lives. [36:07]
Psalm 77:14 (ESV): "You are the God who works wonders; you have made known your might among the peoples."
Reflection: Can you recall a time when you witnessed or experienced a miracle? How can sharing this testimony encourage someone else in their faith journey today?
Day 5: Living with the Assurance of God's Presence
The most transformative truth is that the Lord is with us. This assurance changes how we face challenges and approach life. Knowing that God is with us gives us the confidence to see every situation as an opportunity for His glory to be revealed. This truth should transform how we approach every aspect of our lives. When we understand that God is always with us, we can face difficulties with a sense of peace and assurance, knowing that we are never alone.
This assurance of God's presence is a source of strength and comfort. It reminds us that we are not left to navigate life's challenges on our own. Instead, we have a loving and powerful God who walks with us every step of the way. This knowledge empowers us to live boldly and confidently, trusting that God is working in and through us. By embracing this truth, we can approach each day with a renewed sense of purpose and hope, knowing that the Lord is with us. [41:35]
Deuteronomy 31:8 (ESV): "It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."
Reflection: How does knowing that God is always with you change the way you face your current challenges? What steps can you take to remind yourself of His presence throughout the day?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "You know what the enemy meant for evil, God will still use for good. And there's always something, you know, we get great hopes on a moment, but God's always working something greater over the long term and over the long scheme. So we just trust that all of his boundary lines are landing in pleasant places." [22:52] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "If you will give us one solid year, one year from today. And you know what? As you begin to become familiar and a little more comfort, whatever your personality level is, if you'll begin to step in, begin saying yes to the opportunity, that will be put in front of you all year long to be involved, to get connected, to meet friends, to, to expand your family, your spiritual family. And if you will say yes, here's what I guarantee you a year from now, your life will never be the same." [24:12] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "I've seen what God can do with just a few, from just a few that felt and chased after the hope of what the Holy Spirit was stirring inside of them, without really knowing the answer of it, but knowing the hunger was growing and the willingness to pursue in wherever God would lead." [33:29] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Can I tell you at this point, please don't ever waste your time telling me what cannot happen, and don't waste your time saying what cannot change. It's too late to believe in what cannot happen. It's why we have a church that we lead people to a Jesus-built life, and we boldly declare where anything is possible, and for that to be in the heart of every single person, not because of a pastor, not because of a worship team, not because of a building, but because of a God who is faithful, and the Holy Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is alive and well, and that Jesus released him onto the earth for us today." [40:06] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The Lord is with you. That's it. Do you realize that? The Lord is literally with you. you couldn't sleep the other night, the Lord is with you. When you got that letter in the mail and you said, what are we going to do? The Lord is with you. When my wife had all the hopes of leaving today and got the call from me, get home quick, Olive just broke her arm, we got to do something. You know what? The Lord is with you." [01:17:27] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "I don't know about you, but when I need strength, or when I need a freshness, when I need a reboot, usually waiting is the hardest thing to do. Running is easy. Talking about how tired I am from running is easy. Working harder is easy. Waking up and going from can and falling asleep at can't, is easy. But the greatest refreshing always comes just sometimes taking even just a three minute break of waiting." [19:55] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "What I am asking is this, where do we see our true peace? Where do we see our true value? Where do we see our true significance, if you will? Is our true value and our true peace, is it found in the box that is checked of a particular reality? That we are living in that has planted seeds of doubt and doom and despair of upcoming things? Or that is planting and we have taken this this seed of doom and then we watered it with words of fear and words of doubt and then we even went so far as to try to do to be self-reliant and fix things in our own strength which is where Gideon is right here." [01:02:38] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We will never take the steps of God's plans until we know who we really became when we prayed and we allowed the Lord to enter our life. Until we really understood who we received, we will never take the next steps until we understand. His plan will seem impossible when he begins to deliver the plan. His plan, when he gives you a next step, will always seem illogical. And it may be even a bit risky. And you may be reminded that you're ill-equipped for anything that God can do. But when we know who we are, because of whose we are, all of a sudden we begin taking radical, faith-filled steps in his plan that we would have never done before." [01:11:20] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The Lord's plan was, He didn't show up with a plan, but He showed up and He said, man of strength, man of great might and ability. Hey, you man of great wealth, you force, army force of a man, the strength that is within you, let me tell you something Gideon, the Lord is with you. He gives him a declaration of who He is." [01:13:09] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "If you realize, receive how he sees you, it will change how you see him. And as you see him as he is, you see everything through the view of what God can do and what God will do. And in fact, you see everything through you. This is a Godly perspective." [01:21:02] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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