Trusting God: A Journey of Faith and Stewardship
Summary
In a sermon focused on the theme of trust, particularly in the context of finances, the speaker delves into the biblical principles of tithing, stewardship, and prioritizing God in all aspects of life. The speaker begins by highlighting the importance of acknowledging God as the source of all blessings and the need to trust Him over our own understanding. They emphasize that God knows our needs and that we should not be anxious about material possessions, drawing on the example of children who trust their parents to provide for them. The speaker shares a personal story about learning to let go of control over a new car, realizing that it was a resource from God and that they were merely a steward of His blessings.
The sermon also revisits the biblical narrative of giving versus taking, starting from the creation story where Adam and Eve chose to take the forbidden fruit instead of trusting in God's provision. This theme is contrasted with the giving nature of God, as seen in His blessings to Abram and the appearance of Melchizedek, who brought out bread and wine. The speaker further discusses the significance of the number ten in scripture, which often represents testing, and how tithing is a test of our trust in God's provision.
The concept of tithing is explored in depth, with the speaker explaining that it is not just a transaction but a test of trust and a recognition of God's giving to us. They recount the story of Nehemiah and the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, where the people dedicated themselves to God and committed to giving. However, the speaker notes that the Israelites later failed to trust God, expecting Him to fulfill their desires rather than understanding their role in God's larger story.
The speaker challenges the congregation to consider their own trust in God, especially in the area of finances, where worry and anxiety are prevalent. They cite statistics showing that a significant portion of Americans worry about finances regularly, affecting their mental health. The sermon concludes with an invitation to trust God fully, as He is unchanging and faithful, and to live in a counter-cultural way that prioritizes God and His kingdom.
Key Takeaways:
- Trusting God with our finances is a profound act of faith that acknowledges His sovereignty and care for us. The speaker's personal story of letting go of control over a new car serves as a metaphor for surrendering our resources to God's guidance, recognizing that we are stewards, not owners, of what we have been given. This surrender allows us to live in peace, free from the burden of worry that often accompanies material possessions. [13:20]
- The biblical pattern of giving versus taking is a powerful illustration of our relationship with God. From the story of creation, where Adam and Eve's act of taking led to sin, to the giving nature of God exemplified in His blessings to Abram and the symbolic act of Melchizedek, we see a clear contrast. This pattern teaches us that living a life of trust and generosity aligns us with God's character and intentions for humanity. [25:05]
- Tithing is not merely a financial obligation but a spiritual discipline that tests our trust in God. The speaker explains that the practice of giving 10% of our income is rooted in biblical history and serves as a reminder of God's provision and our dependence on Him. By tithing, we actively participate in a legacy of faith that stretches back to Abraham and beyond, demonstrating our commitment to God's kingdom. [30:42]
- The story of Nehemiah and the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls is a testament to the power of trusting God's provision and timing. The speaker highlights how Nehemiah's faith and dedication led to the miraculous support of the king and the swift reconstruction of the city. However, the subsequent failure of the Israelites to maintain their trust in God serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of placing our expectations above God's plans. [35:45]
- Financial worries are a common struggle, but they offer an opportunity for spiritual growth and deeper reliance on God. The speaker cites statistics on the prevalence of financial anxiety and challenges the congregation to trust in God's wisdom and provision. By prioritizing God in our lives and finances, we can experience the peace and assurance that comes from knowing He is in control and that His plans for us are good. [05:54]
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
> "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
2. Psalm 37:5 (NIV)
> "Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this."
3. Malachi 3:10 (NIV)
> "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it."
### Observation Questions
1. According to Proverbs 3:5-6, what are we instructed to do with all our heart, and what should we avoid relying on? How does this relate to the sermon’s message on trusting God with our finances? [05:54]
2. In Psalm 37:5, what does it mean to "commit your way to the Lord"? How does this verse connect to the idea of giving God control over our resources? [07:02]
3. What promise does God make in Malachi 3:10 if we bring the whole tithe into the storehouse? How does this promise challenge our usual approach to finances? [36:55]
4. The sermon mentioned a personal story about letting go of control over a new car. How did this story illustrate the concept of stewardship versus ownership? [13:20]
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does trusting in the Lord with all your heart (Proverbs 3:5-6) challenge the way you currently handle your finances? What does it mean to "lean not on your own understanding" in this context? [05:54]
2. Psalm 37:5 speaks about committing your way to the Lord and trusting Him. How can this commitment be practically demonstrated in the way you manage your financial resources? [07:02]
3. Malachi 3:10 invites us to test God by bringing the whole tithe. What does this test reveal about our faith and trust in God's provision? How does this align with the sermon’s emphasis on tithing as a spiritual discipline? [36:55]
4. The sermon highlighted the biblical pattern of giving versus taking, using the story of Adam and Eve and the example of Abram. How does this pattern help us understand God's expectations for our financial stewardship? [25:05]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current financial practices. Are there areas where you are leaning on your own understanding rather than trusting in God's provision? What steps can you take to shift your trust to God? [05:54]
2. The sermon mentioned that financial worries are a common struggle. How has financial anxiety affected your mental health or spiritual life? What practical steps can you take to commit your financial concerns to the Lord? [04:39]
3. Tithing was described as a test of trust in God. Have you ever tested God in this way? If not, what might be holding you back from doing so? How can you start incorporating tithing into your financial practices? [36:55]
4. The speaker shared a personal story about letting someone else use their new car as an act of stewardship. Can you think of a resource or possession in your life that you need to view more as a steward rather than an owner? How can you practice this stewardship? [13:20]
5. The sermon emphasized the importance of prioritizing God first in all aspects of life, including finances. What are some practical ways you can ensure that God is first in your financial decisions? [21:53]
6. Reflect on the biblical pattern of giving versus taking. How can you cultivate a more generous and giving attitude in your daily life? Are there specific actions you can take this week to practice generosity? [25:05]
7. The sermon concluded with a challenge to trust God fully and live in a counter-cultural way. What specific changes can you make in your financial habits to align more closely with God's kingdom values? [42:48]
Devotional
Day 1: Stewardship Over Ownership
Recognizing that all resources are God's provision leads to a life of peace and stewardship. Letting go of the illusion of control over material possessions, like the personal story of the car, can liberate from the anxiety that often accompanies them. Trusting in God's sovereignty means acknowledging that one is a steward of the blessings received, not the owner. [13:20]
Luke 12:42-44 - "And the Lord said, 'Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.'"
Reflection: How can you practice recognizing God as the owner of all you have this week?
Day 2: Generosity Reflects God's Nature
The biblical narrative of giving versus taking illustrates the importance of aligning with God's generous nature. The contrast between Adam and Eve's taking and God's giving to Abram, along with Melchizedek's offering, teaches the value of trust and generosity. Embracing this pattern fosters a life that reflects God's intentions for humanity. [25:05]
Hebrews 13:16 - "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God."
Reflection: What is one act of generosity you can commit to this week that reflects God's giving nature?
Day 3: Tithing as Trust in God
Tithing is a spiritual discipline that serves as a testament to one's trust in God's provision. It is not just a financial obligation but a reminder of dependence on God, echoing the faith of our biblical ancestors. This practice is a declaration of commitment to God's kingdom and His work on earth. [30:42]
Malachi 3:10 - "Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need."
Reflection: How does your current practice of tithing reflect your trust in God's provision?
Day 4: Faithfulness Leads to God's Provision
The story of Nehemiah demonstrates the power of faith and dedication in God's timing. Nehemiah's trust in God led to the king's support and the city's restoration. However, the Israelites' later distrust is a warning to not let personal desires overshadow God's greater plan. [35:45]
Nehemiah 2:17-18 - "Then I said to them, 'You see the trouble we are in, how Jerusalem lies in ruins with its gates burned. Come, let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer suffer derision.' And they said, 'Let us rise up and build.' So they strengthened their hands for the good work."
Reflection: Where in your life can you demonstrate greater faithfulness to God's timing and provision?
Day 5: Trust Overcomes Financial Worry
Financial anxiety is common, but it presents an opportunity for spiritual growth and reliance on God. Prioritizing God in finances can lead to peace and assurance, knowing that He is in control and His plans are for our good. This trust is counter-cultural but transformative. [05:54]
Matthew 6:31-33 - "Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
Reflection: What financial worry can you surrender to God today, and how can you actively seek His kingdom in this area of your life?
Quotes
"God had actually a lot to say [about finances]. God gave us Direction and the question is well will I trust him will I allow him to order and direct my steps." [09:46]
"There's one place which is I'm in charge, I'm in control, and man, I'm not doing a great job. But there's another way that says Jesus you're in charge and this is a way that leads to peace." [12:05]
"God's The Source number one, number two that we are stewards, we're not owners of all of this stuff." [12:43]
"Give God the right to direct your life... as you trust him along the way, you'll find that he's pulled it off perfectly." [07:02]
"The longer you walk with God... you can look back and say oh man he worked all things together for my good." [08:04]
"God opens up the windows of Heaven for you, He Pours Down a blessing until there is no more need." [42:10]
"Trust the Lord with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding; God, I'm going to lean upon your word." [42:48]
"82% of Americans worry about finances at least once a month... it affects every area of our life." [04:00]
"God by his very nature is first and because we're created in His image we tend to do certain things out of habit or routine" [21:53]
"Tithing is a test of trust; it's not a transaction. God is not transactional; he is relational." [39:20]
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