Trusting God's Sovereignty Amidst Life's Turmoil
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to reflect on the sovereignty and joy of God, even amidst the chaos and turmoil of our world. We began by focusing on the image of God’s throne, described as a sea of glass, undisturbed by the events of the world. This imagery reminds us that God’s joy and sovereignty are unshaken by earthly events. We then transitioned to the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 and walking on water, emphasizing that Jesus is the true bread of life. The crowd sought Jesus for physical sustenance, but He offered them something far greater—spiritual nourishment that leads to eternal life.
We discussed the significance of Jesus as the bread of life, drawing parallels to the Passover lamb whose blood protected the Israelites from death. Jesus’ body and blood are the ultimate fulfillment of this symbol, offering eternal life to those who believe. This teaching was difficult for many to accept, as it challenged their expectations and understanding. However, Jesus emphasized that true life comes from trusting in Him and His sacrifice.
We also touched on the recent events involving President Donald Trump, recognizing God’s hand in preserving his life. This serves as a reminder that God is in control, even in the midst of political and social upheaval. We are called to trust in God’s plan, even when it doesn’t align with our expectations. Just as Jesus’ disciples had to trust Him despite not fully understanding His mission, we too must trust God’s wisdom and timing in our lives.
### Key Takeaways
1. God’s Sovereignty and Joy: The image of God’s throne as a sea of glass signifies His unshakable joy and sovereignty. No earthly event can disturb His peace or diminish His joy. This reminds us that we can find peace and strength in God’s unchanging nature, even when our world is in turmoil. [32:46]
2. Jesus as the Bread of Life: Jesus offers spiritual nourishment that leads to eternal life, contrasting with the temporary satisfaction of physical food. By believing in Him and partaking in His sacrifice, we receive eternal life and are protected from spiritual death, much like the Israelites were protected by the Passover lamb. [35:00]
3. Trusting God’s Plan: The crowd’s struggle to understand Jesus’ message highlights the importance of trusting God’s plan, even when it doesn’t make sense to us. God’s wisdom often surpasses our understanding, and we are called to surrender our control and trust in His greater purpose. [36:48]
4. God’s Hand in Current Events: The preservation of President Donald Trump’s life serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty in political and social matters. God’s plans are at work, even in the midst of chaos, and we are called to trust in His protection and guidance. [49:34]
5. Living as Adopted Children: Just as adopted children may struggle to trust their new family, we too may struggle to trust God fully. However, God’s faithfulness and provision are constant, and we are invited to live as His beloved children, trusting in His care and provision for our lives. [52:57]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[32:00] - Vision of God's Throne
[32:46] - God's Sovereignty and Joy
[33:39] - Be Still and Know
[34:21] - The Joy of the Lord
[35:00] - The Joy of the Lord is Our Strength
[36:02] - God's Plan for the Nations
[36:48] - Trusting God's Plan
[37:23] - Unshakeable Faith
[37:51] - Greeting and Announcements
[47:51] - Introduction to John 6
[49:02] - Recent Events and God's Protection
[49:34] - God's Hand on President Trump
[50:41] - God's Chosen Leader
[51:09] - God's Promises
[52:19] - Isaiah 41 and God's Faithfulness
[52:57] - Living as Adopted Children
[54:51] - Prayer for the Nation and Church
[55:41] - God's Plan for the Harvest
[56:36] - Setting Our Face on God
[57:14] - Jesus Walks on Water
[58:15] - Jesus Feeds the 5,000
[59:14] - The Crowd's Expectations
[01:00:17] - Jesus' True Mission
[01:01:13] - The Lamb of God
[01:02:15] - John the Baptist's Testimony
[01:03:28] - Jesus' Ministry
[01:04:11] - Jesus' Response to John
[01:05:14] - The Struggle for Control
[01:06:24] - Jesus as Teacher
[01:07:05] - Pre-Teaching and Trust
[01:08:40] - God's Wisdom in Our Lives
[01:09:52] - Jesus' Hard Teachings
[01:10:39] - The Significance of Passover
[01:11:49] - The Elements of Passover
[01:13:12] - God's Plan for Deliverance
[01:14:34] - The Blood of the Lamb
[01:15:41] - The Bread of Life
[01:17:46] - Jesus' Sacrifice
[01:18:21] - The Fulfillment of Prophecy
[01:19:33] - Trusting God's Wisdom
[01:20:30] - Surrendering Control
[01:21:00] - Jesus' Teachings in John 6
[01:22:00] - Seeking Spiritual Nourishment
[01:23:14] - Jesus' Authority
[01:24:19] - The Father's Seal of Approval
[01:25:12] - The Testimony of John
[01:26:14] - The Works of Jesus
[01:27:25] - The Holy Spirit's Anointing
[01:27:58] - The Father's Voice
[01:28:55] - Holding onto God's Testimonies
[01:29:44] - Living as Adopted Children
[01:30:37] - Trusting God's Provision
[01:31:28] - God's Faithfulness
[01:32:22] - The Work of Belief
[01:33:10] - Seeking Signs from Heaven
[01:34:21] - The True Bread from Heaven
[01:35:03] - Jesus as the Bread of Life
[01:36:01] - Jesus' Mission and Authority
[01:37:16] - The Crowd's Grumbling
[01:38:02] - Remembering Jesus' Birth
[01:39:23] - Spiritual Memory Loss
[01:40:36] - Holding onto God's Promises
[01:41:41] - Jesus' Teachings on Eternal Life
[01:42:19] - The Hard Teachings of Jesus
[01:43:09] - The Elements of Passover Fulfilled
[01:44:09] - Figurative Language in Jesus' Teachings
[01:45:17] - The Gospel Message
[01:46:24] - Trusting in Jesus' Sacrifice
[01:47:16] - Conclusion and Prayer
[01:48:03] - Surrendering Control to Jesus
[01:49:13] - Finding Peace and Joy in Jesus
[01:50:09] - The Lesson of Mary and Martha
[01:51:12] - Trusting in God's Provision
[01:52:21] - Repentance and Surrender
[01:53:00] - Jesus as Our Shepherd
[01:53:42] - Closing Blessing and Prayer
[01:53:56] - Invitation to Prayer and Salvation
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. John 6:25-59 - Jesus as the Bread of Life
2. Psalm 2:1-4 - God's Sovereignty and Joy
3. Isaiah 41:8-10 - Trusting God's Plan
### Observation Questions
1. What does Jesus mean when He says, "I am the bread of life"? How does this statement relate to the feeding of the 5,000? ([35:00])
2. How does the imagery of God's throne as a sea of glass illustrate His sovereignty and joy? ([32:46])
3. What recent event involving President Donald Trump was discussed in the sermon, and how was it used to illustrate God's hand in current events? ([49:34])
4. What are the three key elements of Passover mentioned in the sermon, and how do they relate to Jesus' sacrifice? ([01:16:18])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think the crowd struggled to understand Jesus' message about being the bread of life? How does this reflect our own struggles with spiritual truths? ([01:00:17])
2. How does the image of God's throne as a sea of glass help us understand His unshakable joy and sovereignty? What does this mean for us in times of chaos? ([32:46])
3. In what ways does the preservation of President Donald Trump's life serve as a reminder of God's sovereignty? How can this event strengthen our trust in God's plan? ([49:34])
4. How does the concept of living as adopted children of God challenge our understanding of trust and provision? What does it mean to fully trust in God's care? ([52:57])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you struggled to understand a spiritual truth. How did you eventually come to understand it, and what helped you in that process? ([01:00:17])
2. When you face chaos and turmoil in your life, how can you remind yourself of God's unshakable joy and sovereignty? What practical steps can you take to find peace in His presence? ([32:46])
3. How can the recent event involving President Donald Trump inspire you to trust in God's plan, even when it doesn't align with your expectations? What specific area of your life do you need to surrender to God's control? ([49:34])
4. Think about the concept of Jesus as the bread of life. How can you seek spiritual nourishment in your daily life? What practices can you incorporate to ensure you are feeding on the Word of God regularly? ([35:00])
5. Consider the imagery of living as adopted children of God. Are there areas in your life where you are still holding onto control out of fear or mistrust? How can you release these areas to God and trust in His provision? ([52:57])
6. How can you apply the lesson of trusting God's plan in your current circumstances? Identify one specific situation where you need to let go of control and trust in God's wisdom and timing. ([36:48])
7. Reflect on the significance of Jesus' sacrifice as the fulfillment of the Passover lamb. How does this understanding impact your faith and relationship with God? What steps can you take to deepen your appreciation for His sacrifice? ([01:16:18])
Devotional
Day 1: God's Unshakable Sovereignty and Joy
God’s throne is described as a sea of glass, undisturbed by the chaos of the world. This imagery signifies that God’s joy and sovereignty remain unshaken by earthly events. No matter what happens around us, God’s peace and joy are constant and unchanging. This truth invites us to find our peace and strength in God’s unchanging nature, even when our world is in turmoil. We are reminded that God’s sovereignty is not dependent on our circumstances, and His joy is not diminished by the chaos of our lives.
In our daily lives, we often face situations that seem overwhelming and out of control. However, the image of God’s throne as a sea of glass encourages us to trust in His unshakable sovereignty. We can rest in the assurance that God is in control, and His joy is available to us, regardless of our circumstances. This understanding helps us to navigate life’s challenges with a sense of peace and confidence, knowing that God’s joy and sovereignty are our foundation. [32:46]
Revelation 4:6 (ESV): "And before the throne there was as it were a sea of glass, like crystal. And around the throne, on each side of the throne, are four living creatures, full of eyes in front and behind."
Reflection: Think of a current situation in your life that feels chaotic or overwhelming. How can you remind yourself of God’s unshakable sovereignty and joy in the midst of this situation?
Day 2: Jesus as the Bread of Life
Jesus offers spiritual nourishment that leads to eternal life, contrasting with the temporary satisfaction of physical food. The crowd sought Jesus for physical sustenance, but He offered them something far greater—spiritual nourishment that leads to eternal life. By believing in Him and partaking in His sacrifice, we receive eternal life and are protected from spiritual death, much like the Israelites were protected by the Passover lamb. This teaching was difficult for many to accept, as it challenged their expectations and understanding. However, Jesus emphasized that true life comes from trusting in Him and His sacrifice.
The significance of Jesus as the bread of life is profound. Just as physical bread sustains our bodies, Jesus sustains our souls. He is the true source of life, and by partaking in His sacrifice, we are nourished spiritually and granted eternal life. This understanding calls us to seek Jesus not just for our physical needs but for our spiritual sustenance. It challenges us to prioritize our relationship with Him and to trust in His provision for our deepest needs. [35:00]
John 6:35 (ESV): "Jesus said to them, 'I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.'"
Reflection: Reflect on your daily habits and routines. How can you make seeking spiritual nourishment from Jesus a priority in your life today?
Day 3: Trusting God’s Plan
The crowd’s struggle to understand Jesus’ message highlights the importance of trusting God’s plan, even when it doesn’t make sense to us. God’s wisdom often surpasses our understanding, and we are called to surrender our control and trust in His greater purpose. Just as Jesus’ disciples had to trust Him despite not fully understanding His mission, we too must trust God’s wisdom and timing in our lives. This trust requires us to let go of our own expectations and to have faith in God’s perfect plan.
In our lives, we often encounter situations that challenge our understanding and expectations. It is in these moments that we are called to trust in God’s plan, even when it doesn’t align with our own. This trust is not always easy, but it is essential for our spiritual growth and well-being. By surrendering our control and trusting in God’s wisdom, we open ourselves to His greater purpose and allow Him to work in our lives in ways that we may not fully comprehend. [36:48]
Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
Reflection: Think of a situation where you are struggling to understand God’s plan. How can you practice surrendering control and trusting in His wisdom today?
Day 4: God’s Hand in Current Events
The preservation of President Donald Trump’s life serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty in political and social matters. God’s plans are at work, even in the midst of chaos, and we are called to trust in His protection and guidance. This serves as a powerful reminder that God is in control of all things, including the events that unfold in our world. We are encouraged to trust in God’s sovereignty and to seek His guidance in navigating the complexities of our political and social landscape.
In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, it is comforting to know that God’s hand is at work in all things. His plans are not thwarted by the events of the world, and His protection and guidance are available to us. This understanding calls us to trust in God’s sovereignty and to seek His wisdom in our interactions with the world around us. It reminds us that, even in the midst of political and social upheaval, God’s plans are unfolding, and we can find peace in His control. [49:34]
Daniel 2:21 (ESV): "He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent political or social event that has caused you concern. How can you trust in God’s sovereignty and seek His guidance in your response to this event?
Day 5: Living as Adopted Children
Just as adopted children may struggle to trust their new family, we too may struggle to trust God fully. However, God’s faithfulness and provision are constant, and we are invited to live as His beloved children, trusting in His care and provision for our lives. This analogy helps us to understand the depth of God’s love for us and the security we have in Him. As His adopted children, we are called to trust in His faithfulness and to live in the assurance of His provision.
Living as adopted children of God means embracing our identity in Him and trusting in His care for us. It means letting go of our fears and doubts and resting in the security of His love. This trust is built on the foundation of God’s faithfulness and provision, which are constant and unchanging. As we grow in our relationship with God, we learn to trust Him more fully and to live in the confidence of His care for us. [52:57]
Ephesians 1:5 (ESV): "He predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will."
Reflection: Consider an area of your life where you struggle to trust God’s provision. How can you remind yourself of your identity as His beloved child and trust in His care today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "When there's chaos and trouble in the earth, God is on His throne. When there's chaos and trouble in your life, God is on the throne. And this morning we worship the King who sits on His throne with great joy. With great joy. With great joy. With Come on, I'm going to say that again. We serve a God who sits on a throne with great joy. The joy of the Lord is your strength." [34:21] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Aren't you so glad that God's not up in heaven wringing His hands and looking at the sun going, did you know that was going to happen? God is sovereign over history. What is He doing? What's He doing in the midst of the storm? Psalm chapter 2 says, He's enthroning His Son in the earth. He set His Son on a throne. He has anointed and ordained Yeshua HaMashiach, Jesus Christ, the chosen one, to rule and to reign over the earth." [36:02] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "You can't make God lose His joy. You can't make God lose His confidence. You can't shake Jesus. And you know what? If He lives inside of you, you can't be shaken. You can't be shaken either. Okay? We're not going to be shaken. We can actually have joy because we know who's in charge. The devil's not in charge. Politicians are not in charge. People with the money are not in charge. God's in charge." [37:23] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life. And I will raise them up at the last day. And then at this the Jews there begin to grumble about him because he said, I am the bread that came down from heaven. So now they're starting to get it. Whoa, whoa, whoa, hold on a second. We're not just talking about bread anymore, are we? You're talking about you came down from heaven and you're saying you are that bread from heaven?" [01:37:16] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "For the bread of God is the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world. In other words, there is a sign from heaven that's come down and I'm about to unpack that for you. But it's not the kind of sign. It's not a comet. It's not a meteor. It's not the sun going dark. It's not a blood moon or four blood moons. There is a sign much bigger than all of that. I'm about to serve it up on a platter for you. So pay attention." [01:34:21] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Know this, beloved. Church of the living God that nothing in this life causes the joy of Almighty God to diminish. Nothing going on in the earth causes His joy to be diminished. And the activity of man on the earth doesn't cause a single ripple before Him and His presence. This is why we can be still with Him and know that He is the Sovereign God." [33:39] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "When God chooses any human, it doesn't reject him. It's because of his mercy, not because we deserve it. It doesn't matter who you are. I mean, if you go back and read Jacob's life and his son's lives, they were, they were not good people. They did bad things. So when God chooses someone, and has mercy and doesn't reject him, it's because of him, not because of us. I hope you feel that in your spirit. I hope you feel the grace of God." [52:57] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "This is not about survival, survival, financial survival, physical survival. This is not about making sure that you have the control so that your kids will worship God or love God or serve God as they get older. This is not about holding so tightly to your finances like if I don't make this happen, I won't succeed. This is about relinquishing control of every part of our life and saying, Jesus, you're the one that the father has put a seal of approval on. I'm surrendering my will and every part of my life to you." [01:49:13] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Jesus is struggling with the crowds and even his own disciples for this issue of who's gonna be in charge. Who's gonna decide which way this thing is gonna go. We're either gonna go this way and we're gonna try to do it this way. We're gonna try to take care of the immediate issue of Rome and set up the kingdom of God in a very literal way right now. Or we're gonna go the way that the father has said and we're gonna deal with sin for all of humanity. Jesus was surrendered to the will of his father." [01:05:45] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Jesus is gonna do the same thing in verses 25 through 59. And you're gonna see him pre-teaching. He's laying some truth out to the crowds before he ever goes to the cross, before the big reveal happens because he wants them later to be able to look back and go, ah, that's what he was trying to get us to see. God's not afraid if we get offended at him. Don't understand, get stinky, have a stinky attitude." [01:09:52] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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