Wired for Wonder: Embracing God's Presence in Life

In the exploration of the theme "Wired for Wonder," individuals are invited to delve into the concept of wonder and how it can serve as a grounding force in their lives, especially as a new year unfolds, potentially carrying over the challenges of the past. The message emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's power to center and guide one's life, regardless of whether one is new to faith or has been a believer for a long time.

The message begins by acknowledging the cultural moment of honoring Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy and the ongoing movement for equality. It is highlighted that Christians have historically advocated for the belief that all people are created in the image of God, possessing inherent dignity, value, and worth. This belief extends to all individuals, regardless of their views on God, and underscores the universal love and salvation offered through Jesus.

The narrative then shifts to the prophet Habakkuk, who questions God's apparent inaction in the face of injustice. Habakkuk's dialogue with God reveals a vision of God's power over nature and the ultimate plan for justice that transcends human understanding. This vision is exemplified by the story of Jesus calming a storm, demonstrating his authority over creation and inviting his followers to trust in his power.

The message also addresses the modern-day issues of "hurry sickness" and "worry sickness," where individuals are overwhelmed by the pace of life and the anxiety of potential negative outcomes. It is suggested that these worries can isolate individuals and prevent them from experiencing the wonder of God's presence in their lives. The community is encouraged to support one another and to remember that God cares deeply for each person.

The speaker draws parallels between the experiences of Habakkuk and contemporary life, suggesting that individuals can find wonder in God's creation and presence in their daily routines. The message encourages individuals to seek out moments of wonder, whether through nature, prayer, or reflection on God's work in their lives.

The message concludes with a call to action, urging individuals to identify ways they can look for wonder in the coming week. It is suggested that by focusing on wonder, one can combat the worries and hurried pace that often dominate life. The message ends with a prayer, asking God to meet each person where they are and to help them walk closer to Him.

Key Takeaways

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Bible Reading

Habakkuk 3:2-6 (ESV) — - "O Lord, I have heard the report of you, and your work, O Lord, do I fear. In the midst of the years revive it; in the midst of the years make it known; in wrath remember mercy. God came from Teman, and the Holy One from Mount Paran. His splendor covered the heavens, and the earth was full of his praise. His brightness was like the light; rays flashed from his hand; and there he veiled his power. Before him went pestilence, and plague followed at his heels. He stood and measured the earth; he looked and shook the nations; then the eternal mountains were scattered; the everlasting hills sank low. His were the everlasting ways."

2. Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV)
- "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

3. Mark 4:39-41 (ESV)
- "And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, 'Peace! Be still!' And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, 'Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?' And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, 'Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?'"

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Observation Questions

1. What does Habakkuk acknowledge about God's power and past actions in Habakkuk 3:2-6?
2. How does Isaiah 55:8-9 describe the difference between God's thoughts and ways compared to ours?
3. In Mark 4:39-41, what was Jesus' response to the storm, and how did the disciples react to it? [22:49]
4. According to the sermon, what are the modern-day issues that can prevent us from experiencing the wonder of God's presence? [07:33]

Interpretation Questions

1. How does Habakkuk's vision of God's power in Habakkuk 3:2-6 help him to trust in God's plan despite his initial doubts and worries? [04:45]
2. What does Isaiah 55:8-9 suggest about the nature of God's plans and how we should respond to them?
3. How does the story of Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4:39-41 illustrate the concept of wonder and trust in God's power? [23:12]
4. The sermon mentions "hurry sickness" and "worry sickness." How do these concepts relate to the idea of finding wonder in God's presence? [07:56]

Application Questions

1. Reflect on a time when you felt overwhelmed by worry or hurry. How might focusing on the wonder of God's creation help you to find peace in those moments? [06:54]
2. Habakkuk had to surrender his desire for control to trust in God's plan. What areas of your life do you find hardest to surrender to God, and how can you begin to trust Him more in those areas? [16:50]
3. The sermon suggests that community plays a crucial role in combating feelings of isolation caused by worry. How can you engage more deeply with your community to find support and understanding? [28:30]
4. Identify a specific moment or activity in your daily routine where you can intentionally seek out wonder. How can you incorporate this practice into your life this week? [26:26]
5. The message of hope and salvation through Jesus is described as an active reality. How can you invite this sense of hope and joy into your everyday life, especially during challenging times? [29:07]
6. The sermon encourages us to look for wonder in the coming week. What is one specific way you can shift your focus from worry to wonder in your daily life? [29:55]
7. Think about a person in your life who might be struggling with worry or hurry. How can you support them in finding moments of wonder and experiencing God's presence? [28:18]