Trusting God's Goodness in Trials and Grace
Summary
In this sermon, I explored the profound truth that God never shames us, even in the most challenging circumstances. We began by acknowledging the presence of God in our lives and the comfort and strength He provides. I shared personal stories and biblical examples to illustrate how God’s plans are always good, even when we don't understand them. We reflected on the story of Abraham and Isaac, emphasizing Abraham's unwavering faith and trust in God's goodness, despite the seemingly impossible situation he faced. This story teaches us that God’s plans are not to harm us but to prosper us, and that He is always working for our good.
We also discussed the importance of understanding God’s grace. Grace is a gift given to those who do not deserve it, and it is through this grace that we are saved and sustained. I shared a story about a man who repeatedly chose darkness over light, illustrating the consequences of rejecting God’s grace. This serves as a reminder that our choices matter, and choosing to walk in God’s grace leads to life and blessing.
Furthermore, we talked about the importance of leaving vengeance to God. When we are wronged, our role is to bring our pain to God and trust Him to handle justice. This allows us to live in peace and forgiveness, knowing that God is our defender.
Finally, I encouraged everyone to remain steadfast in their faith, even when life is difficult. By trusting in God’s good plans, embracing His grace, and leaving justice to Him, we can live without fear of shame or defeat. God is faithful, and He will lift us up in due time.
Key Takeaways:
1. God’s Plans Are Always Good: Even when we face trials and cannot understand why things happen, we must trust that God’s plans are for our good. Like Abraham, we should have faith that God does not intend harm but has a purpose for our lives. [50:12]
2. Embrace God’s Grace: Grace is an unearned gift from God, and it is through grace that we are saved. Our choices to accept or reject this grace have significant consequences. Walking in grace leads to life and blessing. [58:13]
3. Leave Vengeance to God: When wronged, we should bring our grievances to God and trust Him to handle justice. This allows us to live in peace and forgiveness, knowing that God is our defender. [01:11:28]
4. Faith in Trials: In difficult times, we must remain steadfast in our faith, trusting that God will not shame us. By holding onto His promises, we can endure hardships with hope and strength. [01:13:24]
5. God’s Faithfulness: God is faithful and will lift us up in due time. By trusting in His good plans, embracing His grace, and leaving justice to Him, we can live without fear of shame or defeat. [01:33:14]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:18] - Opening Prayer and Worship
[05:30] - Introduction to Praise
[10:45] - God’s Unfailing Plans
[15:20] - Personal Testimonies
[20:35] - The Story of Abraham and Isaac
[29:41] - Understanding God’s Grace
[37:05] - The Power of Faith
[44:57] - Trusting God in Trials
[50:12] - God’s Goodness in Hard Times
[58:13] - Embracing Grace
[01:05:00] - Choosing Light Over Darkness
[01:11:28] - Leaving Vengeance to God
[01:18:58] - Worship and Reflection
[01:28:29] - Closing Prayer and Blessing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. Joel 2:26
2. Genesis 22:2
3. Psalm 109:26-28
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Observation Questions:
1. In Joel 2:26, what promise does God make to His people regarding shame? How does this relate to the sermon's message that God never shames us? [29:41]
2. Reflecting on Genesis 22:2, what was Abraham asked to do, and how did this test his faith? How does this story illustrate the sermon's point about trusting God's good plans? [40:44]
3. According to Psalm 109:26-28, what is the psalmist's request to God, and how does it reflect the sermon's theme of leaving vengeance to God? [58:13]
4. How does the pastor's personal story about his mother's passing illustrate the sermon's message about God's comfort and faithfulness in difficult times? [01:13:24]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22 challenge our understanding of faith and obedience? What does this story teach about God's character and His plans for us? [40:44]
2. In what ways does the concept of grace, as discussed in the sermon, impact our daily choices and interactions with others? How does this align with the message in Psalm 109:26-28? [58:13]
3. The sermon emphasizes leaving vengeance to God. How does this principle affect our relationships and conflicts? What might be the consequences of taking justice into our own hands? [01:11:28]
4. How does the pastor's experience with his mother's passing provide insight into trusting God's timing and faithfulness, even in moments of grief? [01:13:24]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you felt ashamed or embarrassed. How can the promise in Joel 2:26 that God will not shame us change your perspective on that experience? [29:41]
2. Abraham demonstrated unwavering faith in God's plan. What is a current situation in your life where you need to trust God's plan, even if it seems challenging or unclear? [40:44]
3. Grace is described as an unearned gift. How can you extend grace to someone in your life this week, especially if they don't deserve it? [58:13]
4. Think of a conflict or grievance you are currently facing. How can you practice leaving vengeance to God and seek peace instead? What steps will you take to bring this issue to God in prayer? [01:11:28]
5. The pastor shared about his grief over his mother's passing. How can you find comfort in God's presence during your own times of loss or sadness? What specific actions can you take to seek God's comfort? [01:13:24]
6. Consider a decision you need to make. How can you ensure that your choice aligns with God's grace and His good plans for your life? [58:13]
7. How can you cultivate a deeper understanding of God's faithfulness in your daily life? What practices or habits can you implement to remind yourself of His promises? [01:33:14]
Devotional
Day 1: Trusting in God's Unseen Goodness
In life, we often encounter situations that seem insurmountable or confusing. During these times, it is crucial to remember that God's plans are always good, even when we cannot see the full picture. The story of Abraham and Isaac serves as a powerful reminder of this truth. Abraham's faith in God's goodness, despite the seemingly impossible situation, teaches us that God does not intend harm but has a purpose for our lives. By trusting in His plans, we can find peace and assurance that He is working for our good. [50:12]
"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." (Jeremiah 29:11, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a current challenge you are facing. How can you actively choose to trust in God's unseen goodness in this situation today?
Day 2: Embracing the Gift of Grace
Grace is an unearned gift from God, and it is through this grace that we are saved and sustained. The concept of grace is central to our faith, as it reminds us that we are loved and accepted by God, not because of our actions, but because of His mercy. Our choices to accept or reject this grace have significant consequences. Walking in grace leads to life and blessing, while rejecting it leads to spiritual darkness. Embracing God's grace means living in the light of His love and allowing it to transform our lives. [58:13]
"But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved." (Ephesians 2:4-5, ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt undeserving of God's grace. How can you embrace His grace more fully in your life today?
Day 3: Surrendering Justice to God
When we are wronged, it is natural to want to seek revenge or justice on our own terms. However, the Bible teaches us to leave vengeance to God. By bringing our grievances to Him and trusting Him to handle justice, we can live in peace and forgiveness. This act of surrender allows us to release the burden of anger and resentment, knowing that God is our defender and will bring about justice in His perfect timing. [01:11:28]
"Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'" (Romans 12:19, ESV)
Reflection: Is there someone you need to forgive and release to God's justice? How can you begin to let go of the desire for revenge today?
Day 4: Remaining Steadfast in Faith
In difficult times, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and defeated. However, by remaining steadfast in our faith, we can endure hardships with hope and strength. Trusting in God's promises and holding onto His truth allows us to navigate trials without fear of shame or defeat. Like Abraham, we are called to have unwavering faith in God's goodness, even when circumstances seem bleak. By doing so, we can experience His peace and assurance in the midst of life's challenges. [01:13:24]
"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness." (James 1:2-3, ESV)
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to remain steadfast in faith? How can you actively choose to trust God in this area today?
Day 5: Experiencing God's Faithfulness
God is faithful and will lift us up in due time. By trusting in His good plans, embracing His grace, and leaving justice to Him, we can live without fear of shame or defeat. God's faithfulness is a constant source of hope and strength, reminding us that He is always with us and working for our good. As we experience His faithfulness, we are encouraged to remain faithful in our own walk with Him, trusting that He will fulfill His promises in our lives. [01:33:14]
"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22-23, ESV)
Reflection: How have you experienced God's faithfulness in your life recently? How can you cultivate a deeper trust in His faithfulness today?
Quotes
1. "Sudara ini merupakan sebuah pernyataan Dimana Tuhan itu Tidak akan mempermalukan kita Percayalah bahwa Apapun yang kita alami satu ini Tuhan tidak pernah mempermalukan Anda dan saya Katakan Amen Karena itu ada Beberapa prinsip Kenapa ini penting untuk diangkat Karena kita ini Saya bilang bahwa kita ini Ada di dalam peperangan rohani Kalau kita ini Gagal untuk mengerti Banyak kali kita menjadi orang yang Saya tulis beberapa misalnya yang ini Salah paham dengan Tuhan Oh sangat mungkin kita itu Salah paham dengan Tuhan." [00:29:41] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Kalau Tuhan berkata ya. Maka anda akan mendapatkan apa yang anda doakan. Betul gak? Tapi kalau Tuhan berkata tidak. Berarti anda akan mendapatkan apa yang jauh lebih baik dari apa yang anda doakan. Halo amin. Semuanya gak percaya. Kalau Tuhan berkata ya. Maka anda akan mendapatkan apa yang anda doakan. Betul gak? Tapi kalau Tuhan berkata tidak. Maka anda akan mendapatkan apa yang jauh lebih baik daripada apa yang anda doakan." [00:38:55] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Abram itu sebagai orang yang kenal dengan Tuhan. Itu dia sangat tahu arti persembahkan. Kalau dia dikatakan harus mempersembahkan anaknya. Berarti dia bunuh anaknya. Yang dia sayangi. Yang dia tunggu 25 tahun. Kepada Tuhan Kalau saudara jadi Abram pasti anda tanya Kenapa ya Tuhan ini nganggur kah Ini kan kesayanganku Kenapa Tuhan ambil begitu aja Tuhan tuh jahat Kita tuh mulai mikir Tuhan yang aneh -aneh Tuhan tuh gak sayang sama saya." [00:41:41] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Abram ini tau Bahwa tidak ada rancangan jahat dari Tuhan Makanya dia ngomong itu Kepada kedua bujangnya Dia bilang seperti ini Kami akan sembayang Sesudah itu kami akan kembali Harusnya Abram gak ngomong begitu kan Betul gak? Harusnya kan Abram ngomong ini Tunggu disini ya Kami akan sembayang Aku setelah itu Aku akan kembali kepadamu Kenapa? Ishak sudah mati di atas Betul gak?" [00:45:57] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Abram itu ngomong Ketika isek ngomong gitu Disini ada api ini kayu Terus mana dombanya Abram ngomong nanti Tuhan yang menyediakan Apa dasarnya kok Abram bilang begini Nanti Tuhan yang menyediakan Kok ada dasarnya gak ada Apakah Tuhan ngomong nanti ya Disitu ada domba Kamu jangan khawatir Tuhan gak ngomong gitu Keputusannya tetap persembahkan Anakmu Itu imannya abram Yang ngomong nanti Tuhan yang menyediakan Karena satu berangkat dari satu ini Bahwa abram tau Tidak ada rancangan yang jahat dari Tuhan." [00:47:58] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Tuhan tidak pernah mempermalukan hidup anda. Karena itu punya prinsip yang kuat. Bahwa satu ini di dalam Tuhan tidak ada rancangan yang jahat. Masih ingat cerita dua anak yang satu tahu bersyukur dan satu tidak tahu bersyukur? Atau satu terima kasih dan satu tidak?" [00:52:52] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Tuhan tidak pernah mempunyai rencana jahat dalam hidupmu. Rancangan Tuhan adalah yang terbaik Amen Halo amen Anda belum melihat kuda Anda cuma melihat kotornya kuda Tapi Anda tetap percaya ada rancangan yang baik Nanti sebentar lagi kudanya akan datang Amen Oke beri tepuk tangan dulu buat Allah yang besar." [00:57:18] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "Mengenal Allah yang selalu Bekerja dalam kasih karunianya Apa sih kasih karunia? Kasih karunia itu sesuatu yang diberikan Kepada seorang yang tidak layak menerimanya Itu kasih karunia Kasih karunia adalah sesuatu yang Tuhan berikan Kepada seorang yang seharusnya Orang itu gak layak menerimanya." [00:58:36] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Barang siapa percaya kepadanya Ia tidak akan dihukum Barang siapa tidak percaya Ia telah beradab Dan dibawah hukuman Sebab ia tidak percaya dalam nama anak Tunggal Allah Barang siapa percaya kepadanya Ia tidak akan dihukum Ini kasih karunia Allah Barang siapa percaya kepadanya Kamu tidak akan dihukum Sampai kapan sih batasnya percaya itu Sampai nafas terakhir Itu Tuhan itu luar biasa." [01:01:22] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "Kalau Anda disakiti kalau Anda disakiti lalu diperlakukan tidak adil tugas Anda cuman datanglah kepada Tuhan. Masih ingat kompannya Pastor Filip? Kalau kita datang kepada Tuhan lalu kita mengeluh dengan keadaan kita. Kalau Anda mengeluh dengan Tuhan itu it's okay. Pribadi. Jangan mengeluh dengan orang. Mengeluh dengan Tuhan. Tuhan kenapa aku mengalami ini? Kenapa? Itu it's okay. Karena Tuhanlah tempat curhat hatimu." [01:11:55] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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