The Power of Jesus' Blood and Finding Direction
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to reflect on the profound significance of the blood of Jesus Christ and the power it holds in our lives. We began by reading from 1 Corinthians, which reminds us that the act of communion is a proclamation of the Lord's death until He returns. This sacred act serves as a reminder that our ultimate goal is to spend eternity with Jesus Christ in heaven. Until that day, we are to remember His sacrifice on the cross, which washed away our sins and reconciled us to God.
We then partook in communion, reflecting on the bread as the body of Christ and the cup as His blood, symbolizing the new covenant. This act of worship is a holy moment, reminding us of the immense sacrifice Jesus made for our salvation. The power of His blood is not just in covering our sins but in completely washing them away, making us pure before God.
The sermon transitioned into a discussion about feeling lost in life. We all experience moments of feeling directionless, whether in our relationships, careers, or spiritual journeys. These feelings can lead to anxiety and depression, robbing us of peace and joy. However, it's crucial to remember that God has a plan for us, even when we can't see it. Trusting in His word and seeking His will can guide us through these moments of lostness.
We explored the parables in Luke 15, which illustrate God's relentless pursuit of the lost. Whether it's the lost sheep, the lost coin, or the prodigal son, these stories emphasize that God values each of us immensely and will go to great lengths to bring us back to Him. Feeling lost doesn't mean we are lost; it means we need to trust in God's plan and allow Him to guide us.
In conclusion, we were reminded that Jesus is always looking out for our best interests. He treasures us and will make a way where there seems to be no way. Even when we feel lost, we can find comfort in knowing that God is searching for us and will bring us home.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Communion: Communion is a sacred act that reminds us of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. It is a proclamation of His death and a reminder of our ultimate goal to spend eternity with Him. This act of worship is a holy moment that calls us to reflect on the immense love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. [16:08]
2. Trusting God's Plan: When we feel lost, it's essential to trust that God has a plan for us. Even if we can't see or understand it, His plan is always for our good. Trusting in His word and seeking His will can guide us through moments of uncertainty and bring us peace. [42:29]
3. God's Relentless Pursuit: The parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son in Luke 15 illustrate God's relentless pursuit of us. He values each of us immensely and will go to great lengths to bring us back to Him. Feeling lost doesn't mean we are lost; it means we need to trust in God's plan and allow Him to guide us. [55:51]
4. The Importance of Being Still: Sometimes, when we feel lost, the best thing we can do is be still and trust in God. Our emotions can deceive us, leading us to make hasty decisions. By being still and seeking God's direction, we can find the path He has laid out for us. [51:58]
5. God's Love and Compassion: The story of the prodigal son highlights God's immense love and compassion for us. Even when we stray, He runs to us with open arms, ready to embrace and restore us. This love and compassion are available to us at all times, especially when we feel lost. [01:01:58]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[16:08] - The Power of Communion
[16:43] - Partaking of the Bread
[17:20] - Reflecting on Jesus' Sacrifice
[17:50] - Prayer of Gratitude
[18:31] - The Power of the Blood
[19:01] - Partaking of the Cup
[19:36] - Worship and Reflection
[29:55] - Eternal Praise in Heaven
[31:14] - Community and Fellowship
[32:06] - Introduction and Announcements
[33:10] - Generosity and Giving
[35:39] - Prayer for Generosity
[36:20] - Feeling Lost in Life
[42:29] - Trusting God's Plan
[45:38] - The Pharisees' Lostness
[49:12] - Avoiding a Hardened Heart
[50:40] - Reminding Ourselves of God's Word
[51:58] - Being Still and Trusting God
[55:51] - God's Relentless Pursuit
[59:09] - Jesus Treasures You
[01:01:58] - God's Love and Compassion
[01:08:49] - Finding Direction in God's Word
[01:13:43] - Prayer for Educators and Students
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 1 Corinthians 11:25-26 (ESV) - "In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.' For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes."
2. Luke 15:4-7 (ESV) - "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.' Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance."
3. Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV) - "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does 1 Corinthians 11:25-26 say about the significance of communion? How does it serve as a reminder for believers? [16:08]
2. In Luke 15:4-7, what actions does the shepherd take when he realizes one sheep is lost? What does this tell us about God's pursuit of the lost? [55:51]
3. According to Jeremiah 29:11, what kind of plans does God have for us? How does this verse provide comfort during times of feeling lost? [53:18]
4. During the sermon, what were some of the emotions and challenges mentioned that people face when they feel lost? [42:29]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the act of communion help believers to stay focused on their ultimate goal of spending eternity with Jesus? [16:08]
2. What do the parables in Luke 15 reveal about God's character and His attitude towards those who are lost? [55:51]
3. How can trusting in God's plan, as mentioned in Jeremiah 29:11, change our perspective during difficult times? [53:18]
4. Why is it important to be still and trust in God when we feel lost, according to the sermon? How can this practice impact our decision-making? [51:58]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt lost in your life. How did you respond, and what could you have done differently to trust in God's plan? [42:29]
2. Communion is a time to remember Jesus' sacrifice. How can you make this act of worship more meaningful in your personal spiritual life? [16:08]
3. The parables in Luke 15 show God's relentless pursuit of the lost. How can you apply this understanding to your relationships with others who may feel lost or distant from God? [55:51]
4. When you feel overwhelmed by emotions like anxiety or depression, what practical steps can you take to be still and seek God's direction? [51:58]
5. How can you remind yourself of God's promises, like those in Jeremiah 29:11, during times of uncertainty? What specific actions can you take to reinforce this trust? [53:18]
6. Think of someone in your life who might be feeling lost. What can you do this week to reach out to them and offer support or encouragement? [55:51]
7. The sermon mentioned the importance of not letting emotions dictate our decisions. What strategies can you use to ensure your decisions are guided by faith and trust in God rather than by fleeting emotions? [46:27]
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Communion
Communion is a sacred act that reminds us of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. It is a proclamation of His death and a reminder of our ultimate goal to spend eternity with Him. This act of worship is a holy moment that calls us to reflect on the immense love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. When we partake in communion, we are not just remembering a historical event; we are engaging in a profound spiritual practice that connects us to the very heart of our faith. The bread symbolizes His body, broken for us, and the cup represents His blood, shed for the forgiveness of our sins. This act of remembrance is a powerful reminder of the new covenant we have with God through Jesus Christ. [16:08]
Hebrews 9:14 (ESV): "How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God."
Reflection: As you partake in communion, what specific aspect of Jesus' sacrifice resonates most deeply with you today? How can you carry this reflection into your daily life?
Day 2: Trusting God's Plan
When we feel lost, it's essential to trust that God has a plan for us. Even if we can't see or understand it, His plan is always for our good. Trusting in His word and seeking His will can guide us through moments of uncertainty and bring us peace. Life often presents us with challenges and uncertainties that can make us feel directionless. In these moments, it's crucial to remember that God is sovereign and His plans are perfect. By immersing ourselves in His word and seeking His guidance through prayer, we can find the strength and clarity to navigate through life's uncertainties. [42:29]
Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV): "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."
Reflection: Think about a current situation where you feel lost or uncertain. How can you actively trust in God's plan and seek His guidance today?
Day 3: God's Relentless Pursuit
The parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son in Luke 15 illustrate God's relentless pursuit of us. He values each of us immensely and will go to great lengths to bring us back to Him. Feeling lost doesn't mean we are lost; it means we need to trust in God's plan and allow Him to guide us. These parables highlight the depth of God's love and His unwavering commitment to seek and save the lost. No matter how far we may stray, God is always actively searching for us, ready to welcome us back with open arms. [55:51]
Luke 15:4-7 (ESV): "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt far from God. How did you experience His pursuit and love during that season? How can you be more aware of His presence in your life today?
Day 4: The Importance of Being Still
Sometimes, when we feel lost, the best thing we can do is be still and trust in God. Our emotions can deceive us, leading us to make hasty decisions. By being still and seeking God's direction, we can find the path He has laid out for us. In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to become overwhelmed and anxious. However, taking the time to be still before God allows us to hear His voice more clearly and align our hearts with His will. This practice of stillness and trust is essential for spiritual growth and discernment. [51:58]
Psalm 46:10 (ESV): "Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!"
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to practice being still and trusting God? How can you create space for stillness and reflection in your daily routine?
Day 5: God's Love and Compassion
The story of the prodigal son highlights God's immense love and compassion for us. Even when we stray, He runs to us with open arms, ready to embrace and restore us. This love and compassion are available to us at all times, especially when we feel lost. God's love is unconditional and His grace is boundless. No matter how far we may wander, He is always ready to welcome us back and restore us to a place of honor and love. This truth should fill us with hope and encourage us to extend the same love and compassion to others. [01:01:58]
Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV): "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
Reflection: Think of a time when you experienced God's love and compassion in a profound way. How can you share that same love and compassion with someone in your life today?
Quotes
1. "Because life is all about spending eternity with Jesus Christ in heaven. That is the goal. That is the focus. That is the plan. But until he returns, according to scripture says, we are to remind ourselves of what he did on the cross of Calvary and died for our sins and washed our sins away. And that is why we partake of this." [16:08] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The blood, there's power in the blood because the power of the blood has the power to wash away sins, not to wash away sins. You know, we try to cover things up in our life all the time. You know what I'm talking about. But when we stand before God the Father, he sees nothing but a white robe of glory, the word tells us. And it's only because of the blood of Jesus Christ who has washed those sins away." [18:31] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "When you get in the presence of Jehovah, when you experience the presence of the Holy Spirit, you really don't want to be anywhere else. That's right. Because you're not worried about anything else when you're standing before the Father. I be blessing, be glory, be honor and power forever. Amen. Let's give the Lord a clap of praise. Amen. Amen. Amen." [29:55] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "When you are finding yourself feeling lost, we all have those moments in our life. We know when you're dealing with different things. I find that when those things try to overcome my life, they try to rob me of peace, rob me of sleep, rob me of rest, and rob me of joy. When those things happen, I have to remind myself in those moments that God has a plan. And that plan is good for me." [42:29] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So what do we do when we start feeling lost? Very simple. We have to remind ourselves of his word. You have to remind himself of his word. And if you don't know, if you don't know the word of God, you're in trouble because the word says very clearly, thy word is a lamp unto my feet. The word of God will lead you and direct you even when you're feeling lost." [50:40] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "When you're feeling lost, you need to know that Jesus treasures you greatly and he will move heaven and earth to be with you. I said, he treasures you greatly this morning. You see this parable talks how a woman lit a lamp and swept the room to find the valuable coin. Now it is believed that that coin is part of a dowry that was paid, which represents, listen to this, which represents her. Her future security as a married woman." [59:53] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "When you're feeling lost, you need to know that Jesus will run to your rescue with great love and compassion. We need to know that we need to know that we need to understand those things and let them rest in our heart because moments of feeling loss are going to come and go. But the word of God is true. The Bible says, let every man be a liar, but the word of God is true." [01:04:41] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "Jesus is wanting the best for your life. He treasures you and he will make a way where there seems to be no way. And he will run after you for your protection and for your future. And we need to remind ourselves that when we're feeling that way, because again, feelings are deceiving because they are emotions. So how do we find ourselves when we're feeling lost? We remind ourselves. And what the word says, trust the Lord, seek after him, and he will show you the direction you need to go." [01:08:49] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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