Sermon Series: Dare to See Clearly
Prayer- James 1:12 (NIV)
12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
Monday –Joshua 1:7-9, Joshua Installed as Leader
Does God promise health and wealth to those who follow him? It may appear so, at least in the Old Testament, where God’s promises were linked to the land. But God’s kingdom is not essentially geographic, it is spiritual and eternal. Some who are called to serve the Lord may have to endure poverty and deprivation (Romans 8:35-39).
Tuesday –Philippians 4:8-9, Final Exhortations
Can we choose to think lovely thought? How can we control the thoughts that come uninvited into our minds? Paul was not talking about fleeting impressions that invate our thinking. Thought of temptation or discouragement can come unannounced. But we can discipline ourselves, making conscious choices to contemplate good things. Reading uplifting Bible verses and meditating on them, making a mental checklist of God’s attributes, counting our blessings- these types of things can get our thought on the right track.
Wednesday –Romans 10:9-10, Salvation
What does it mean to be “saved”? Salvation comes by faith, but faith is not just knowledge of the facts. Genuine faith is evident in a loving relationship with God. Even though sin broke this relationship, God provided reconciliation through His son Jesus Christ. We are saved when we believe Jesus died and was resurrected, and when we sincerely trust in him as our only way to eternal life. We cement this through confession of words and way of living. How’s your walk with God? Are you sharing your salvation too? There’s a world that we’re called to share with. Go share Jesus!
Thursday –Philippians 4:6-7, Final Exhortations
Seriously? Do NOT be anxious? Sometimes I wonder what God was thinking. God created me this way, so why shouldn’t I be anxious? Well… God has called us to care and have concern, but we’re not called to be so concerned that we’re paralyzed and unable to do God will. Unhealthy anxiety is toxic and keeps us from following God with a glad and open heart. So… don’t sweat it. God’s god plans!
Friday – Matthew 6:31-33, Do Not Worry
Do not worry again?!?! Does Jesus command us NOT to worry? This is not so much a command as it is an invitation to rest in the arms of our loving Father. As humans, we will at times cross the line and fret when we should trust. But only when we allow ourselves to constantly focus on ourselves instead of God do we violate Jesus’ principle. His invitation is liberating principle, not another law to be obeyed.
Saturday – Ephesians 5:19-20, Do Not Worry Part II
Can we honestly give thanks for everything? Seriously? Giving thanks is an act of worship. Despite difficult circumstances, we can give thanks, knowing that God’s love and concern are unfailing. That’s amazing Grace! That’s amazing Love! Praise God!