by Hope City Church on Oct 13, 2024
In today's message, we explored the profound concept of truly owning our lives through the lens of biblical principles. The journey begins with the understanding that everything we need is found in the presence of God. Too often, we rush into life without inviting His presence, which is essential for experiencing the fullness of joy and the plans He has for us. We are encouraged to make it a personal habit to invoke God's presence in our daily lives.
The core of the message revolved around five laws that guide us in taking ownership of our lives. The first is the Law of Responsibility, which emphasizes the importance of taking charge of our own lives. We must stop blaming circumstances or others for our situations and instead carry our own load, as Galatians 6:4-5 instructs. This responsibility is crucial for spiritual, emotional, and physical progress.
The second law is the Law of Intentionality, which calls us to make deliberate choices. Proverbs 4:26-27 reminds us to give careful thought to our paths and be steadfast in our ways. Being intentional means being proactive rather than reactive, ensuring that our decisions align with our purpose.
The third law, the Law of Discipline, challenges us to commit to growth rather than comfort. Hebrews 12:11 teaches us to endure hardship as discipline, understanding that growth often requires discomfort. Discipline transforms potential into purpose, allowing us to stretch beyond our comfort zones.
The fourth law is the Law of Faith, which urges us to trust in God's provision, purpose, and process. Matthew 6:33 encourages us to seek first the kingdom of God, trusting that He will provide for our needs. Faith requires action, and we must demonstrate our trust in God through our deeds.
Finally, the Law of Legacy reminds us to build for the next generation. Proverbs 13:22 speaks of leaving an inheritance for our children's children. Our lives should be about more than just ourselves; they should impact future generations positively.
These principles guide us in owning our lives now, not just in the future. By applying these laws, we can move from being renters of our lives to true owners, living intentionally and purposefully in alignment with God's will.
**Key Takeaways:**
1. **Presence of God:** Inviting God's presence into our lives is essential for experiencing His joy and plans. We often rush into life without Him, missing out on the fullness He offers. Make it a habit to invoke His presence daily. [44:20]
2. **Law of Responsibility:** Taking ownership of our lives means carrying our own load and not blaming others or circumstances. This responsibility is crucial for spiritual, emotional, and physical progress. [45:16]
3. **Law of Intentionality:** Being intentional in our choices means being proactive rather than reactive. Deliberate decisions align with our purpose and ensure we are on the right path. [48:26]
4. **Law of Discipline:** Growth requires discomfort, and discipline transforms potential into purpose. Enduring hardship as discipline helps us stretch beyond our comfort zones. [51:27]
5. **Law of Legacy:** Our lives should impact future generations positively. Building a legacy means leaving an inheritance for our children's children, ensuring our lives are about more than just ourselves. [55:41]
**Youtube Chapters:**
- [0:00] - Welcome
- [44:20] - Inviting God's Presence
- [45:16] - Importance of Responsibility
- [46:12] - Survey and Town Hall Announcement
- [47:33] - Book Signing and Message Introduction
- [48:32] - Parable of the Bags of Gold
- [49:48] - Sharing in the Master's Happiness
- [50:33] - Fear and Faithfulness
- [51:27] - Law of Discipline
- [52:36] - Faithfulness vs. Fruitfulness
- [53:57] - Owning Your Life Now
- [55:41] - Law of Legacy
- [58:25] - Taking Responsibility
- [59:24] - Intentionality and Choices
- [01:00:14] - Trusting God's Process
**Bible Reading:**
1. Galatians 6:4-5 - "Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load."
2. Proverbs 4:26-27 - "Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil."
3. Matthew 6:33 - "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
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**Observation Questions:**
1. What does Galatians 6:4-5 suggest about personal responsibility and how does it relate to the sermon’s message on the Law of Responsibility? [55:41]
2. How does Proverbs 4:26-27 emphasize the importance of intentionality in our choices, as discussed in the sermon? [01:05:52]
3. In Matthew 6:33, what is the promise given to those who seek first the kingdom of God, and how does this relate to the Law of Faith mentioned in the sermon? [01:16:10]
4. How does the parable of the bags of gold in Matthew 25 illustrate the concept of faithfulness and fruitfulness as discussed in the sermon? [02:42:56]
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**Interpretation Questions:**
1. How might the Law of Responsibility, as described in the sermon, challenge individuals to reassess their current life situations and the excuses they might be making? [55:41]
2. What does it mean to be intentional in one's choices according to the sermon, and how can this intentionality impact one's spiritual journey? [01:05:52]
3. How does the sermon suggest that discipline can transform potential into purpose, and what might this look like in practical terms? [01:09:07]
4. In what ways does the sermon encourage believers to trust in God's process, and how might this trust affect their daily decisions and long-term goals? [01:16:10]
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**Application Questions:**
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you blamed external circumstances for your challenges. How can you apply the Law of Responsibility to take ownership of your actions in similar situations? [55:41]
2. Identify a specific area in your life where you need to be more intentional. What steps can you take this week to align your actions with your purpose? [01:05:52]
3. Consider a time when you chose comfort over growth. What is one uncomfortable step you can take this week to commit to personal or spiritual growth? [01:09:07]
4. How can you actively seek God's kingdom in your daily life, and what changes might you need to make to prioritize this pursuit? [01:16:10]
5. Think about the legacy you are building. What is one action you can take to ensure that your life positively impacts future generations? [01:17:51]
6. Reflect on a recent decision you made. How did faith play a role in that decision, and how can you strengthen your trust in God's provision and purpose moving forward? [01:16:10]
7. What is one practical way you can demonstrate faithfulness and fruitfulness in your current responsibilities or relationships? [02:42:56]
Day 1: Inviting God's Presence into Daily Life
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to overlook the importance of inviting God's presence into our routines. The fullness of joy and the divine plans God has for us are found in His presence. By making it a habit to seek Him daily, we open ourselves to His guidance and blessings. This practice is not just a ritual but a transformative experience that aligns our lives with His purpose. When we rush into our day without acknowledging Him, we miss out on the richness He offers. Take a moment each day to pause, invite His presence, and experience the profound difference it makes. [44:20]
Psalm 16:11 (ESV): "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."
Reflection: How can you intentionally create space in your daily routine to invite God's presence and listen for His guidance today?
Day 2: Embracing the Law of Responsibility
Taking ownership of our lives is a fundamental step in spiritual growth. The Law of Responsibility teaches us to carry our own load and stop blaming others or circumstances for our situations. This principle is crucial for our spiritual, emotional, and physical progress. By acknowledging our role in our life's journey, we empower ourselves to make meaningful changes. Galatians 6:4-5 reminds us that each person should test their own actions and carry their own load. Embracing this responsibility leads to personal growth and a deeper relationship with God. [45:16]
Galatians 6:4-5 (ESV): "But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. For each will have to bear his own load."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you have been blaming others or circumstances? How can you take responsibility for it today?
Day 3: Practicing Intentionality in Decision-Making
The Law of Intentionality calls us to make deliberate choices that align with our purpose. Proverbs 4:26-27 encourages us to give careful thought to our paths and be steadfast in our ways. Being intentional means being proactive rather than reactive, ensuring that our decisions reflect our values and goals. This approach requires us to pause, reflect, and choose wisely, rather than being swept away by the demands of the moment. By practicing intentionality, we can live a life that is purposeful and aligned with God's will. [48:26]
Proverbs 4:26-27 (ESV): "Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil."
Reflection: What is one decision you need to make today? How can you ensure it aligns with your purpose and values?
Day 4: Embracing Growth Through Discipline
The Law of Discipline challenges us to commit to growth rather than comfort. Hebrews 12:11 teaches us that discipline, though painful at the time, produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Growth often requires discomfort, and discipline transforms potential into purpose. By enduring hardship as discipline, we stretch beyond our comfort zones and develop resilience. This process is essential for personal and spiritual development, allowing us to fulfill our God-given potential. [51:27]
Hebrews 12:11 (ESV): "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to embrace discipline for growth? How can you start today?
Day 5: Building a Legacy for Future Generations
The Law of Legacy reminds us that our lives should impact future generations positively. Proverbs 13:22 speaks of leaving an inheritance for our children's children. Building a legacy means living a life that is about more than just ourselves. It involves making choices that will benefit those who come after us, ensuring that our influence endures. By focusing on legacy, we can create a lasting impact that reflects God's love and purpose. Consider how your actions today can contribute to a meaningful legacy for the future. [55:41]
Proverbs 13:22 (ESV): "A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous."
Reflection: What is one way you can begin to build a positive legacy for future generations today? How can your actions reflect God's love and purpose?
desire.
So, trust God's provision, purpose, and process. Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be added unto you.
Lastly, the fifth law is the law of legacy. Build for the next generation. Get your eyes off of always being on you. Put it on something bigger that can outlive you. Proverbs 13:22 says, "A good person leaves an inheritance for their children's children."
This is how I want Hope City to be built up. I want you to be a good person. I want you to be a good person who leaves an inheritance, not just for your children, but establishes something in your life that future generations can live on—physically and spiritually. Leave a legacy, leave a standard, or something that future generations can thrive on.
One of my favorite scriptures says in the Old Testament, "I set before you both life and death. Now choose life." He said, "You make a deliberate choice." I set before you life and death. Choose life so that you and your descendants may live.
When God sets before us these opportunities, when you choose the right path, everything that you need to get to where you're supposed to go is on that path. The enemy knows if you choose the path of death, the things that don't edify you and build you up, you will never see your dream or vision come to pass.
I close by sharing this story from the Old Testament. When God finally freed the children of Israel after 400 years of bondage under Pharaoh, He told Moses as they were leaving and walking in their freedom, "Don't take them that way. Take them a different way."
He said, "Because there's a war going on over there. When they see that war, they're going to get intimidated and afraid and want to go back into the bondage that they're in."
Some of you have experienced so much trauma and pain. God has found you. He's finally brought you out. He's about to take you to your promised land, but you keep allowing pockets of dark moments in your life to make you go back to what God brought you out of.
One scripture says in Proverbs, "Like a dog that returns to its vomit." You keep going back to what you were delivered from because you don't have enough confidence or trust that there's a meal coming for you.
God told the children of Israel, "Even though this way was closer, the steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord." Sometimes, the way that seems right to you may not be the right way.
You have to trust God in this season deliberately like you never have before. When you do that, you will truly own your life.
Let's give God praise for His word today.
Stand to your feet and let's pray.
Father, we thank you for your word. Your word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our paths. Thank you for speaking to our hearts and minds. God, order our steps in this season.
Maybe someone is saying, "Pastor Corey, I need to hear this word today. I know church, but I don't know Him."
You may have good religion, but you don't have a personal relationship with this God you're talking about. You want to know what it means to be saved and born again.
If you're in this place, I'd love to pray for you.
Secondly, maybe you're saying, "I already made that decision. I have confidence that if I take my last breath on this side, I will enter into the presence of my Creator. But what I do need is a church home that teaches the word of God in such a way that I can apply it to my life."
So, with every head bowed and every eye closed, if you're saying, "Pastor Corey, please include me in this prayer," just lift your hand.
I see your hand. No pumping, no priming. It's between you and God.
Lift your hands towards heaven and pray this simple prayer with me from your heart.
"Lord God, I thank you for sending Jesus Christ to die on the cross for my sins. God, I ask you now to forgive me of any and every sin that has separated me from your love.
I believe that Jesus died and rose again with all power in His hand. I may not fully understand what all this means, but I do believe that with your spirit living on the inside of me, I will become the person you desire me to be.
So, I ask you now to fill me with the power and presence of your Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit, you are welcome to live in my heart for the rest of my life.
Father God, your word declares that any man being in Christ is a new creation. Old things are passed away, and behold, all things are become new.
I pray for those that raised their hand for the first time. They have been spiritually separated from God, and even those who've been physically separated from a church fellowship.
Father, I pray that everything they lost prematurely in that season of separation, that they're moving into a season of recovery, and you're going to restore everything that was removed from their life prematurely.
We honor you right now, Father, for what you've done in this place. In Jesus' name, I pray.
Can we celebrate for every decision that was made in this place today?
Amen, amen.
Good afternoon, Hope City. It's great to see your faces today as we continue our series on Owning Your Life Now.
Just two quick announcements here. Thank you to each of you who've already filled out the survey we sent out last week. We want to put our finger on the pulse and the temperature of our members.
If you did not fill out the survey, the link has been sent to you via email. I think it will go out once more this week.
Then on the last Sunday of this month at 5 o'clock, we will have a town hall, which will give you an opportunity to hear about some of the things that were shared with us, and for me to share some things about the future of Hope City Church.
Your feedback is very important to us. We want to know your experiences and what’s making you happy or sad right now as you're enjoying this place we call Hope City Church.
We never want to lose the very thing that brought you here.
Last but not least, I will be signing a few books in the lobby. We do have a few physical copies available. If anyone wants to get a copy of my new book signed today, I will be meeting you in the lobby.
If not, you can get your copy off of Amazon.
Thank you for being here today. Let's continue to own our lives now!
1. "Everything we need is in the presence of God. And I think too often we rush into things without invoking the presence of God in our space and all that we're doing. So, I just want to encourage you today to make it a personal habit in your own personal individual worship and life is just take a moment to invoke the presence of God in your life." [44:20] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God's desire is for us to share in his happiness. And how many of you know God is happy? God has a lot to be happy about. And he wants us to share in that happiness. The things that he has. The things that he has access to. Somebody say, God wants me to share in his happiness. So I ain't got time to walk around being sad. Come on, somebody. I don't have time walking around being sad. If you ask me why I'm happy, because I'm sharing in the master's happiness." [50:33] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Fear has the ability and the propensity to rob us from doing what we know God told us to do. It has the ability to rob us from walking on water, stepping out the boat, and doing what we know is in our head and in our heart that God showed us when we was three, when we were 10 and 20 and 40. We would stay in the boat, never producing and receiving all that God has for us." [52:36] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You have everything that you need to increase. The question is, are you doing the right thing with it? Two of them were faithful, and they were fruitful. One was faithful, but he was not fruitful what God had placed in his hand. When I talk about these five laws on today, whoever heard the statement of whatever goes up must come down. At some point, whatever goes up, it will. It's a law. It's nothing you can do about it." [53:57] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The Word of God is a book of laws, a book of principles that if we apply the principles of God right in our life, we can receive the fruit that God desires for us to receive. These principles I want to talk about. It's going to challenge us to see that owning our future begins with recognizing our God-given abilities, making wise choices, and living intentionally in His purpose." [54:53] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Take responsibility for your life. People can help you. People can assist you. But at the day, if you are not the owner of your life, that means everything around you can dictate who you are and what you will ultimately be. Don't get me wrong. We all have had circumstances that has hit our life. There's upbringings that we went through that we had no control over. But there becomes a point in your life that you cannot allow those circumstances to become excuses that hinder you from being all that God wants you to be." [55:41] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "To own our lives, we must be intentional in our choices. Intentionality means we are purpose-driven and not simply reactive. Too many people are reactive and not proactive. When you move from being a reactive person to a proactive person, you are in control of your life. Like a servant who doubled his talents, we are called to be deliberate in how we invest our time, our resources, and our actions." [01:07:34] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "The law of discipline says commit to growth. Not comfort. Too many of you want comfort more than you want your vision and your dream to come to pass. Because you don't want to go through the process of what growth requires. You know when your kid was growing up and they was having all kinds of pains at a certain point. They was having growing pains. Some of us, we want comfort more than we want the growth. And we don't say that with our mouth. We do it with our actions." [01:08:30] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Trust God's provision and purpose. I wanted to add to that, trust God's provision, purpose, and process. Because many of us, we want the provision. We want the purpose, but we don't want to go through that process. We think home ownership just happens. If anybody ever went through the process of owning a home, we almost lost a lot of hair. Some hair turned gray. You're almost wanting to bike out of buying the house." [01:14:52] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "The law of legacy. It says build for the next generation. It says get your eyes off of always being on you. Put it on something that's bigger and that can outlive you. Proverbs 13, 22 says a good person leaves an inheritance for their children's children. This is how I will hope seated to be built up. I want you to be a people that you are, your mission is to leave an inheritance, not just for your children, but establish something in your life that future generations can eat on, live on, physically live on, spiritually live on, leave a legacy, leave a standard or something that future generations can live on." [01:17:51] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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