Salvation Summits…

1. I am a mess before Christ.

At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.
Titus 3:3 (NIV)

2. I am rescued by God.

But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy…so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.
Titus 3:4-5, 7 (NIV)

“If any other man thinks that he has confidence in the flesh, I yet more: circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the assembly; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, found blameless.”
Philippians 3:4b-6

3. I am washed and renewed by the Holy Spirit.

He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.
Titus 3:5-7 (NIV)

He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.
Titus 3:5 (NLT)

He gave us a good bath, and we came out of it new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit.
Titus 3:5 (Mess)

I was very glad to find some of your children walking in truth, in keeping with a command we have received from the Father. 5 So now I ask you, dear lady—not as if I were writing you a new command, but one we have had from the beginning—that we love one another. 6 This is love: that we walk according to his commands. This is the command as you have heard it from the beginning: that you walk in love.
2 John 1:4-6 (CSB)

1. I should never grow tired of love

So now I ask you, dear lady—not as if I were writing you a new command, but one we have had from the beginning—that we love one another.
2 John 1:5 (CSB)

2. I should practice love in all my relationships

So now I ask you, dear lady—not as if I were writing you a new command, but one we have had from the beginning—that we love one another.
2 John 1:5 (CSB)

This is my command: Love one another as I have loved you.
John 15:12 (CSB)

3. I should express love by following Jesus’ commands

This is love: that we walk according to his commands. This is the command as you have heard it from the beginning: that you walk in love.
2 John 1:6 (CSB)

Loving God means keeping his commandments, and his commandments are not burdensome.
1 John 5:13 (NLT)

A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
John 13:34 (NIV)

4. I should make love a lifestyle

This is love: that we walk according to his commands. This is the command as you have heard it from the beginning: that you walk in love.
2 John 1:6 (CSB)

And walk in love, as Christ also loved us and gave himself for us, a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God.
Ephesians 5:2 (CSB)

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV)

1. Come to Me (Relationship)

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28 (NIV)

Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

2. Yield to Me (Partnership)

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Matthew 11:29-30 (NIV)

3. Learn from Me (Discipleship)

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Matthew 11:29-30 (NIV)

Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the hometown of Andrew and Peter. 45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the law (and so did the prophets): Jesus the son of Joseph, from Nazareth.” 46 “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Nathanael asked him. “Come and see,” Philip answered.
John 1:44-46 (CSB)

1.  Never underestimate Jesus

Others said,  “This is the Messiah.” But some said, “Surely the Messiah doesn’t come from Galilee, does he?”
John 7:41 (CSB)

“Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t his mother’s name Mary, and aren’t his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas? 56Aren’t all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?” 57And they took offense at him.
Matthew 13:55-57 (NIV)

2.  Always see what God is doing

Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the hometown of Andrew and Peter. 45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the law (and so did the prophets): Jesus the son of Joseph, from Nazareth.” 46 “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Nathanael asked him. “Come and see,” Philip answered.
John 1:44-46 (CSB)

As the Father has loved me, I have also loved you. Remain in my love.
John 15:9 (CSB)

3.  Always respond in faith

Then Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said about him, “Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.”48 “How do you know me?” Nathanael asked. “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you,” Jesus answered. 49 “Rabbi,” Nathanael replied, “You are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel!”
John 1:47-49 (CSB)

Jesus responded to him, “Do you believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” 51 Then he said, “Truly I tell you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”
John 1:50-51 (CSB)

I can increase my courage through…

1. INDIVIDUALITY—Being who God made me to be

Daniel distinguished himself above the administrators and satraps because he had an extraordinary spirit, so the king planned to set him over the whole realm.
Daniel 6:3 (CSB)

2. INTEGRITY—Doing the right thing no matter the cost

The administrators and satraps, therefore, kept trying to find a charge against Daniel regarding the kingdom. But they could find no charge or corruption, for he was trustworthy, and no negligence or corruption was found in him. 5 Then these men said, “We will never find any charge against this Daniel unless we find something against him concerning the law of his God.”
Daniel 6:4-5 (CSB)

3. INTERCESSION—Bringing every concern to God in prayer

Therefore, Your Majesty, establish the edict and sign the document so that, as a law of the Medes and Persians, it is irrevocable and cannot be changed.” 9 So King Darius signed the written edict.10 When Daniel learned that the document had been signed, he went into his house. The windows in its upstairs room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before. 11 Then these men went as a group and found Daniel petitioning and imploring his God. 12 So they approached the king and asked about his edict: “Didn’t you sign an edict that for thirty days any person who petitions any god or man except you, the king, will be thrown into the lions’ den?”
Daniel 6:8-12 (CSB)

4. INFLUENCE—Using the platform God gives me for good

Then King Darius wrote to those of every people, nation, and language who live on the whole earth: “May your prosperity abound. 26 I issue a decree that in all my royal dominion, people must tremble in fear before the God of Daniel.
Daniel 6:25-26 (CSB)

…be careful not to be ensnared by their ways after they have been destroyed before you. Do not inquire about their gods, asking, ‘How did these nations worship their gods? I’ll also do the same.’ 31 You must not do the same to the Lord your God, because they practice every detestable act, which the Lord hates, for their gods. They even burn their sons and daughters in the fire to their gods. 32 Be careful to do everything I command you; do not add anything to it or take anything away from it.
Deuteronomy 12:30-32 (CSB)

When I heard this report, I tore my tunic and robe, pulled out some of the hair from my head and beard, and sat down devastated.
Ezra 9:3 (CSB)

1. THOSE WHO EXPEREINCE THE HAND OF GOD…

A. STUDY THE WORD OF GOD

He was a scribe skilled in the law of Moses, which the Lord, the God of Israel, had given. The king had granted him everything he requested because the hand of the Lord his God was on him.
Ezra 6:6 (CSB)

Let the word of Christ dwell richly among you…
Colossians 3:16 (CSB)

He began the journey from Babylon on the first day of the first month and arrived in Jerusalem on the first day of the fifth month since the gracious hand of his God was on him. 10 Now Ezra had determined in his heart to study the law of the Lord, obey it, and teach its statutes and ordinances in Israel.
Ezra 7:9-10 (CSB)

He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”
Luke 11:28 (NIV)

B. SEEK THE HEART OF GOD

I proclaimed a fast by the Ahava River, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask him for a safe journey for us, our dependents, and all our possessions. 22 I did this because I was ashamed to ask the king for infantry and cavalry to protect us from enemies during the journey, since we had told him, “The hand of our God is gracious to all who seek him, but his fierce anger is against all who abandon him.” 23 So we fasted and pleaded with our God about this, and he was receptive to our prayer.
Ezra 8:21-23 (CSB)

2. THE HAND OF GOD…

A. GIVES ME STRENGTH TO CARRY ON

Blessed be the Lord, the God of our ancestors, who has put it into the king’s mind to glorify the house of the Lord in Jerusalem, 28 and who has shown favor to me before the king, his counselors, and all his powerful officers. So I took courage because I was strengthened by the hand of the Lord my God, and I gathered Israelite leaders to return with me.
Ezra 7:27-28 (CSB)

We set out from the Ahava River on the twelfth day of the first month to go to Jerusalem. We were strengthened by our God, and he kept us from the grasp of the enemy and from ambush along the way.
Ezra 8:31(CSB)

B. GIVES ME PASSION TO SERVE

…I searched among the people and priests, but found no Levites there. 16 Then I summoned the leaders…I sent them to Iddo, the leader…, with a message for him and his brothers, the temple servants…, that they should bring us ministers for the house of our God. 18 Since the gracious hand of our God was on us, they brought us Sherebiah—a man of insight…along with his sons and brothers, 18 men, 19 plus Hashabiah, along with Jeshaiah, from the descendants of Merari, and his brothers and their sons, 20 men. 20 There were also 220 of the temple servants, who had been appointed by David and the leaders for the work of the Levites.
Ezra 8:15-20 (CSB)

Cinderella prayers are…

1.         Filled with passion

Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth.
James 5:17 (ESV)

And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
James 5:15 (ESV)

“From there you will search again for the LORD your God. And if you search for him with all your heart and soul, you will find him.”
Deuteronomy 4:29 (NLT)

2.         Emboldened by righteousness

So keep on confessing your sins to one another and praying for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
James 5:16 (ISV)

If you are a husband, you should be thoughtful of your wife. Treat her with honor, because she isn’t as strong as you are, and she shares with you in the gift of life. Then nothing will stand in the way of your prayers.
1 Peter 3:7 (ESV)

But there is a problem—your sins have cut you off from God. Because of your sin, he has turned away and will not listen anymore.
Isaiah 59:2 (NLT)

We all know that God does not listen to sinners, but he listens to anyone who worships and obeys him.
John 9:31 (NCV)

3.         Inspired by power

The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
James 5:16b (ISV)

I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
John 14:13 (ISV)

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
Matthew 7:7 (NIV)

4.         Cultivated by simplicity

Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth.
James 5:17 (ESV)

5.         Strengthened by persistence

Elijah was a man just like us, and he prayed earnestly for it not to rain, and it did not rain on the ground for three years and six months. Then he prayed again, and heaven sent rain, and the ground produced its crops.
James 5:16-18 (ISV)

Lord, God of my salvation,  I cry out before You day and night.
Psalms 88:1 (HCSB)

At that time Jesus went off to a mountain to pray, and he spent the night praying to God.
Luke 6:12 (NCV)

They reported to Moses, “We went into the land where you sent us. Indeed it is flowing with milk and honey, and here is some of its fruit.
Numbers 13:27 (CSB)

When your outnumbered stop…

However, the people living in the land are strong, and the cities are large and fortified. We also saw the descendants of Anak there.
Numbers 13:28 (CSB)

2.         Listening to the majority

But the men who had gone up with him responded, “We can’t attack the people because they are stronger than we are!” 32 So they gave a negative report to the Israelites about the land they had scouted: “The land we passed through to explore is one that devours its inhabitants, and all the people we saw in it are men of great size. 33 We even saw the Nephilim there—the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim! To ourselves we seemed like grasshoppers, and we must have seemed the same to them.”
Numbers 13:31-33 (CSB)

GOD IS FOR ME

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
Romans 8:31 (ESV)

GOD IS IN ME

Christ in you, the hope of glory.
Colossians 1:27 (ESV)

GOD IS WITH ME

The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid.
Psalm 118:6 (NIV)

3.         Living in the past

Then the whole community broke into loud cries, and the people wept that night. 2 All the Israelites complained about Moses and Aaron, and the whole community told them, “If only we had died in the land of Egypt, or if only we had died in this wilderness! 3 Why is the Lord bringing us into this land to die by the sword? Our wives and children will become plunder. Wouldn’t it be better for us to go back to Egypt?” 4 So they said to one another, “Let’s appoint a leader and go back to Egypt.”
Numbers 14:1-4 (CSB)

Afterward he was on his way to a town called Nain. His disciples and a large crowd were traveling with him. 12 Just as he neared the gate of the town, a dead man was being carried out. He was his mother’s only son, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the town was also with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her and said, “Don’t weep.” 14 Then he came up and touched the open coffin, and the pallbearers stopped. And he said, “Young man, I tell you, get up!” 15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. 16 Then fear came over everyone, and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has risen among us,” and “God has visited his people.” 17 This report about him went throughout Judea and all the vicinity.
Luke 7:11-17 (CSB)

Keep Getting Up Because…

Afterward he was on his way to a town called Nain. His disciples and a large crowd were traveling with him. 12 Just as he neared the gate of the town, a dead man was being carried out. He was his mother’s only son, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the town was also with her. When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said, “Don’t cry.”
Luke 7:11-13 (CSB)

Then a man with leprosy came to him and, on his knees, begged him, “If you are willing, you can make me clean.” 41 Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out his hand and touched him. “I am willing,” he told him. “Be made clean.”
Mark 1:40-41 (CSB)

When the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her and said, “Don’t weep.”
Luke 7:13 (CSB)

WE HAVE MANY ASSURANCES

Assurances We Are Never Alone
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10 (CSB)

Assurances of Answered Prayer
If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!
Matthew 7:11 (CSB)

Assurance of Spiritual Guidance
For all those led by God’s Spirit are God’s sons.
Romans 8:14 (CSB)

3. Jesus Is Full of Power

Then he came up and touched the open coffin, and the pallbearers stopped. And he said, “Young man, I tell you, get up!”15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother.
Luke 7:14-15 (CSB)

Write to the angel of the church in Philadelphia: Thus says the Holy One, the true one, the one who has the key of David, who opens and no one will close, and who closes and no one opens: 8 I know your works. Look, I have placed before you an open door that no one can close.
Revelation 3:7 (CSB)

You were made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins.
Ephesians 2:1 (NASB)

4. Jesus Is Full of Help

They were all filled with awe and praised God. “A great prophet has appeared among us,” they said. “God has come to help his people.” 17 This news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding country.
Luke 7:16-17 (NIV)

Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign: See, the virgin will conceive, have a son, and name him Immanuel.
Isaiah 7:14 (CSB) 

1. INVITATION – INVITE AS MANY AS POSSIBLE

Then Jesus said to his host, “When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. 13 But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, 14 and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”
Luke 14:12-13 (NIV)

“The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.’ 22 “ ‘Sir,’ the servant said, ‘what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.’ 23 “Then the master told his servant, ‘Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full.
Luke 14:21-23 (NIV)

2. EXPECTATION – UNDERSTAND NOT EVERYONE WILL ATTEND

When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, “Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.” 16 Jesus replied: “A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. 17 At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’ 18 “But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, ‘I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.’ 19 “Another said, ‘I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.’ 20 “Still another said, ‘I just got married, so I can’t come.’
Luke 14:15-20 (NIV)

3. CELEBRATION – THOSE WHO COME WILL BE GLAD THEY DID

I tell you, not one of those who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.’ ”
Luke 14:24 (NIV)

I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
Luke 15:7 (NIV)

Then Jesus went to all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every sickness. 36 When He saw the crowds, He felt compassion for them, because they were weary and worn out, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest is abundant, but the workers are few. 38 Therefore, pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.”
Matthew 9:35-38 (HCSB)

Reaching People is…

1) Motivated by Compassion

When He saw the crowds, He felt compassion for them, because they were weary and worn out, like sheep without a shepherd.
Matthew 9:36 (HCSB)

2) Driven by Prayer

Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
Matthew 9:37-38 (NIV)

3) Accomplished by Work

Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
Matthew 9:38 (NIV)

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”   
Romans 10:13-15

I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:18-19 (NIV)

By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead.
Hebrews 11:4 (NIV)

1. My Faith Honors The Lord

Honor the Lord with your wealth…
Proverbs 3:9 (NIV)

2. My Faith Helps Me Rethink My Priorities

Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.
Proverbs 3:9 (NIV)

Now if the firstfruits offered up are holy, so is the whole batch. And if the root is holy, so are the branches.
Romans 11:16 (CSB)

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:21 (CSB)

“Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me.“But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ “In tithes and offerings. 9 You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me.  Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.
Malachi 3:8-9 (NIV)

3. My Faith Hastens God’s Blessings

Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; 10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.
Proverbs 3:9-10 (NIV)

The point is this: The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously.
2 Corinthians 9:6 (CSB)

“…give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”
Luke 6:38 (ESV)

1. Where is your treasure?

“Don’t collect for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal.  But collect for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves don’t break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:19-21 (HCSB)

“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. So if the light within you is darkness—how deep is that darkness!
Matthew 6:22-23 (HCSB)

You do not have because you do not ask.
James 4:2 (CSB)

Consider the birds of the sky: They don’t sow or reap or gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you worth more than they?
Matthew 6:26 (CSB)

I am the Lord your God, who brought you up from the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it.
Psalm 81:10 (CSB)

And my God will supply all your needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Philippians 4:19 (CSB)

3. Who is your master?

“No one can be a slave of two masters, since either he will hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot be slaves of God and of money.
Matthew 6:24 (HCSB)

Sitting across from the temple treasury, he watched how the crowd dropped money into the treasury. Many rich people were putting in large sums. 42 Then a poor widow came and dropped in two tiny coins worth very little. 43 Summoning his disciples, he said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 For they all gave out of their surplus, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had —all she had to live on.”
Mark 12:41-44 (CSB)

Meta Faith…

1. Stretches Me

Sitting across from the temple treasury, he watched how the crowd dropped money into the treasury. Many rich people were putting in large sums. 42 Then a poor widow came and dropped in two tiny coins worth very little.
Mark 12:41-42 (CSB)

The widow who is really in need and left all alone puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for help.
1 Timothy 5:5 (NIV)

2. Motivates Me

Sitting across from the temple treasury, he watched how the crowd dropped money into the treasury. Many rich people were putting in large sums. 42 Then a poor widow came and dropped in two tiny coins worth very little.
Mark 12:41-42 (CSB)

3. Inspires Me

Summoning his disciples, he said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 For they all gave out of their surplus, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had —all she had to live on.”
Mark 12:43-44 (CSB)

4 Choices that Shape your Life

1) Faith Choices

But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.
Ruth 1:16 (NIV)

2) Community Choices

With her two daughters-in-law she left the place where she had been living and set out on the road that would take them back to the land of Judah.
Ruth 1:7 (NIV)

Now Naomi had a relative on her husband’s side, a man of standing from the clan of Elimelek, whose name was Boaz.
Ruth 2:1 (NIV)

So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. When he made love to her, the Lord enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son.
Ruth 4:13 (NIV)

3) Family Choices

…both Mahlon and Kilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two sons and her husband.
Ruth 1:5 (NIV)

Who are you?” he asked.“I am your servant Ruth,” she said. “Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer of our family.”
Ruth 3:9 (NIV)

So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. When he made love to her, the Lord enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son.
Ruth 4:13 (NIV)

4) Attitude Choices

“…My daughters. It is more bitter for me than for you, because the Lord’s hand has turned against me!”
Ruth 1:12-13 (NIV)

“Don’t call me Naomi,” she told them. “Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter. 21 I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty.
Ruth 1:20-21 (NIV)

He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and who is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth.” Then Naomi took the child in her arms and cared for him.17 The women living there said, “Naomi has a son!” And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.
Ruth 4:15-17 (NIV)

This, then, is the family line of Perez: Perez was the father of Hezron, 19 Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab, 20 Amminadab the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon, 21 Salmon the father of Boaz,Boaz the father of Obed, 22 Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David.
Ruth 4:18-22 (NIV)

Love Is…

Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi said to her, “My daughter, shouldn’t I find rest for you, so that you will be taken care of? 2 Now isn’t Boaz our relative? Haven’t you been working with his female servants? This evening he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor. 3 Wash, put on perfumed oil, and wear your best clothes. Go down to the threshing floor, but don’t let the man know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, notice the place where he’s lying, go in and uncover his feet, and lie down. Then he will explain to you what you should do.”5 So Ruth said to her, “I will do everything you say.”
Ruth 3:1-5 (CSB)

Yield to obey each other because you respect Christ.
Ephesians 5:21

That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.
Genesis 2:24 (NIV)

“This is my command: Love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends .”
John 15:12-13 (CSB)

At midnight, Boaz was startled, turned over, and there lying at his feet was a woman! 9 So he asked, “Who are you?” “I am Ruth, your servant,” she replied. “Take me under your wing, for you are a family redeemer.”
Ruth 1:8-9 (CSB)

She went to her mother-in-law, Naomi, who asked her, “What happened, my daughter?” Then Ruth told her everything the man had done for her. 17 She said, “He gave me these six measures of barley, because he said, ‘Don’t go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.’”
Ruth 3:16-17 (CSB)

Boaz replied: The LORD bless you! This shows how truly loyal you are to your family. You could have looked for a younger man, either rich or poor, but you didn’t.
Ruth 3:10 (CEV)

But if he doesn’t want to redeem you, as the Lord lives, I will. Now lie down until morning.”14 So she lay down at his feet until morning but got up while it was still dark. Then Boaz said, “Don’t let it be known that a woman came to the threshing floor.”
Ruth 3:13-14 (CSB)

For you know that you were redeemed from your empty way of life inherited from your ancestors, not with perishable things like silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of an unblemished and spotless lamb.
1 Peter 1:18-19 (CSB)

1. Grace Approaches Me

Then Boaz said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter. Don’t go and gather grain in another field, and don’t leave this one, but stay here close to my female servants.
Ruth 2:8 (CSB)

GRACE SHOWS UP AT UNEXPECTED TIMES
GRACE SHOWS UP IN UNUSUAL PLACES

For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save the lost.
Luke 19:10 (CSB)

2. Grace Protects Me

See which field they are harvesting, and follow them. Haven’t I ordered the young men not to touch you? When you are thirsty, go and drink from the jars the young men have filled.”10 She fell facedown, bowed to the ground, and said to him, “Why have I found favor with you, so that you notice me, although I am a foreigner?”
Ruth 2:9-10 (CSB)

For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift— 9 not from works, so that no one can boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9 (CSB)

God has revealed his grace to save the whole human race.
Titus 2:11 (NJB)

3. Grace Blesses Me

At mealtime Boaz told her, “Come over here and have some bread and dip it in the vinegar sauce.” So she sat beside the harvesters, and he offered her roasted grain. She ate and was satisfied and had some left over…She picked up the grain and went into the town, where her mother-in-law saw what she had gleaned. She brought out what she had left over from her meal and gave it to her.
Ruth 2:14;18 (CSB)

So the king asked, “Is there anyone left of Saul’s family that I can show the kindness of God to?” …So Mephibosheth ate at David’s table just like one of the king’s sons.
2 Samuel 9:3;11 (CSB)

4. Grace Uplifts Me

She fell facedown, bowed to the ground, and said to him, “Why have I found favor with you, so that you notice me, although I am a foreigner?”11 Boaz answered her, “Everything you have done for your mother-in-law since your husband’s death has been fully reported to me: how you left your father and mother and your native land, and how you came to a people you didn’t previously know. 12 May the Lord reward you for what you have done, and may you receive a full reward from the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.”
Ruth 2:10-12 (CSB)

5. Grace Favors Me

Then she said, “I have found favor in your eyes, my lord, for you have comforted me and spoken kindly to your servant, though I am not one of your servants.”
Ruth 2:13 (CSB)

1.         God can bless me when I’m hurting

During the time of the judges, there was a famine in the land. A man left Bethlehem in Judah with his wife and two sons to stay in the territory of Moab for a while.
Ruth 1:1 (CSB)

Naomi’s husband, Elimelech, died, and she was left with her two sons.
Ruth 1:3 (CSB)

Both Mahlon and Chilion also died, and the woman was left without her two children and without her husband.
Ruth 1:5 (CSB)

Return home, my daughters. Go on, for I am too old to have another husband. Even if I thought there was still hope for me to have a husband tonight and to bear sons.
Ruth 1:12 (CSB)

She and her daughters-in-law set out to return from the territory of Moab, because she had heard in Moab that the Lord had paid attention to his people’s need by providing them food.
Ruth 1:6 (CSB)

Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord punish me, and do so severely, if anything but death separates you and me.
Ruth 1:17 (CSB)

Naomi took the child, placed him on her lap, and became a mother to him. The neighbor women said, “A son has been born to Naomi,” and they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.
Ruth 4:16-17 (CSB)

I would have despaired had I not believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living.
Psalm 27:13 (AMP)

She and her daughters-in-law set out to return from the territory of Moab, because she had heard in Moab that the Lord had paid attention to his people’s need by providing them food.
Ruth 1:6 (CSB)

Naomi said, “Look, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods. Follow your sister-in-law.” But Ruth replied: Don’t plead with me to abandon you or to return and not follow you. For wherever you go, I will go, and wherever you live, I will live; your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.
Ruth 1:15-16 (CSB)

One day Gideon’s son Abimelech went to Shechem to visit his uncles—his mother’s brothers. He said to them and to the rest of his mother’s family, 2 “Ask the leading citizens of Shechem whether they want to be ruled by all seventy of Gideon’s sons or by one man. And remember that I am your own flesh and blood!”3 So Abimelech’s uncles gave his message to all the citizens of Shechem on his behalf. And after listening to this proposal, the people of Shechem decided in favor of Abimelech because he was their relative. 4 They gave him seventy silver coins from the temple of Baal-berith, which he used to hire some reckless troublemakers who agreed to follow him. 5 He went to his father’s home at Ophrah, and there, on one stone, they killed all seventy of his half brothers, the sons of Gideon. But the youngest brother, Jotham, escaped and hid.6 Then all the leading citizens of Shechem and Beth-millo called a meeting under the oak beside the pillar at Shechem and made Abimelech their king.
Judges 9:1-6 (NLT)

Then Jotham escaped and lived in Beer because he was afraid of his brother Abimelech.  After Abimelech had ruled over Israel for three years, 23 God sent a spirit that stirred up trouble between Abimelech and the leading citizens of Shechem, and they revolted. 24 God was punishing Abimelech for murdering Gideon’s seventy sons, and the citizens of Shechem for supporting him in this treachery of murdering his brothers. 25 The citizens of Shechem set an ambush for Abimelech on the hilltops and robbed everyone who passed that way. But someone warned Abimelech about their plot.
Judges 9:21-25

Then Abimelech attacked the town of Thebez and captured it. 51 But there was a strong tower inside the town, and all the men and women—the entire population—fled to it. They barricaded themselves in and climbed up to the roof of the tower. 52 Abimelech followed them to attack the tower. But as he prepared to set fire to the entrance, 53 a woman on the roof dropped a millstone that landed on Abimelech’s head and crushed his skull.54 He quickly said to his young armor bearer, “Draw your sword and kill me! Don’t let it be said that a woman killed Abimelech!” So the young man ran him through with his sword, and he died. 55 When Abimelech’s men saw that he was dead, they disbanded and returned to their homes.56 In this way, God punished Abimelech for the evil he had done against his father by murdering his seventy brothers. 57 God also punished the men of Shechem for all their evil. So the curse of Jotham son of Gideon was fulfilled.
Judges 9:50-56 (NLT)

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
Galatians 6:7-10 (NIV)

1. We Reap What We Sow

Don’t be under any illusion: you cannot make a fool of God! A man’s harvest in life will depend entirely on what he sows.
Galatians 6:7 (PT)

Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
Galatians 6:8 (NIV)

2. We Reap Later And Sooner Than We Sow

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

3. We Reap More Than We Sow

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

I also saw a mighty angel proclaiming with a loud voice, “Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?” 3 But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or even to look in it. 4 I wept and wept because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or even to look in it. Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep. Look, the Lion from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered so that he is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” Then I saw one like a slaughtered lamb standing in the midst of the throne and the four living creatures and among the elders. He had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent into all the earth.
Revelation 5:1-6 (CSB)

Judah is a young lion—my son, you return from the kill. He crouches; he lies down like a lion or a lioness—who dares to rouse him? The scepter will not depart from Judah or the staff from between his feet until he whose right it is comes and the obedience of the peoples belongs to him.
Genesis 49:9-10 (CSB)

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!
John 1:29 (CSB)

1) Love The Lion and the Lamb

2) Live Like a Lion and a Lamb

JESUS IS MY VICTORY…

Then I saw heaven opened, and there was a white horse. Its rider is called Faithful and True, and with justice he judges and makes war.
Revelation 19:11 (CSB)

2.         Because He’s Magnificent

His eyes were like a fiery flame, and many crowns were on his head. He had a name written that no one knows except himself.
Revelation 19:12 (CSB)

3.         Because He’s Transformative

He wore a robe dipped in blood, and his name is called the Word of God.
Revelation 19:13 (CSB)

For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12 (CSB)

Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.
Proverbs 30:5 (CSB)

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 All things were created through him, and apart from him not one thing was created that has been created.
John 1:1-3 (CSB)

4.         Because He’s Triumphant

And he has a name written on his robe and on his thigh: King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Revelation 19:16 (CSB)

Then I fell at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, “Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers and sisters who hold firmly to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God, because the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”
Revelation 19:10 (CSB)

A star will come from Jacob, and a scepter will arise from Israel.
Numbers 24:17 (CSB)

“I, Jesus, have sent My angel to attest these things to you for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright Morning Star.”
Revelation 22:16 (CSB)

1. JESUS THE MORNING STAR GIVES DIRECTION

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of King Herod, wise men from the east arrived in Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star at its rising and have come to worship him.”
Matthew 2:1-2 (CSB)

If we say, “We have fellowship with him,” and yet we walk in darkness, we are lying and are not practicing the truth. If we walk in the light as he himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.
1 John 1:6-7 (CSB)

2. JESUS THE MORNING STAR GIVES PERSPECTIVE

Jesus spoke to them again: “I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows me will never walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12 (CSB)

3. JESUS THE MORNING STAR GIVES HOPE

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so that you may know what is the hope of his calling, what is the wealth of his glorious inheritance in the saints.
Ephesians 1:18 (CSB)

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16 (CSB)

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “the one who is, who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Revelation 1:8 (CSB)

I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.
Revelation 22:13 (CSB)

1. Jesus Reveals Spiritual Truth

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning.  All things were created through him, and apart from him not one thing was created that has been created.
John 1:1-3 (CSB)

For everything was created by him, in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through him and for him.17 He is before all things, and by him all things hold together.
Colossians 1:16-17 (CSB)

The one who has seen me has seen the Father.
John 14:9 (CSB)

2. Jesus Knows Everything

“Now we know that you know everything and don’t need anyone to question you. By this we believe that you came from God.”
John 16:30 (CSB)

3. Jesus Provides What I Need

But I have received everything in full, and I have an abundance. I am fully supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you provided—a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply all your needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:18-19 (CSB)

4. Jesus Finishes What He Starts

I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 1:6 (CSB)

…looking unto Jesus the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising shame, and hath sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2 (ASV)

1. FAITHFUL TO YOU

But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.
2 Thessalonians 3:3 (CSB)

For every one of God’s promises is “Yes” in him. Therefore, through him we also say “Amen” to the glory of God.
2 Corinthians 1:20 (CSB)

Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21 being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.
Romans 4:20-21 (NIV)

A. God is faithful in providing for you

And my God will supply all your needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19 (CSB)

B. God is faithful to encourage you

I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 1:16 (CSB)

C. God is faithful in comforting you

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Matthew 5:4 (CSB)

2. STRENGTHENS YOU

But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.
2 Thessalonians 3:3 (CSB)

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may reside in me.
2 Corinthians 12:9 (CSB)

3. PROTECTS YOU

But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.
2 Thessalonians 3:3 (CSB)

The one who lives under the protection of the Most High dwells in the shadow of the Almighty.
Psalm 91:1 (CSB)

For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does.4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (NIV)

…and don’t give the devil an opportunity.
Ephesians 4:27 (CSB)

Living in Spiritual Victory requires me to…

…and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV)

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.
Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)

2. Disperse The Weapons

For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does.4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.
2 Corinthians 10:3-4 (NIV)

Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit — which is the word of God.  Pray at all times in the Spirit.
Ephesians 6:17-18 (CSB)

3. Demolish The Strongholds

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
Corinthians 10:5 (NIV)

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Colossians 3:2 (NIV)

How to sass the devil…

1. Know God’s word

Then the tempter approached him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”⁴ He answered, “It is written: Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
Matthew 4:3-4 (CSB)

Then the devil took him to the holy city, had him stand on the pinnacle of the temple, ⁶ and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down. For it is written: He will give his angels orders concerning you, and they will support you with their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.” ⁷ Jesus told him, “It is also written: Do not test the Lord your God.”
Matthew 4:5-7 (CSB)

Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elements of the world, rather than Christ.
Colossians 2:8 (CSB)

2. Get filled with the Spirit

When Jesus was baptized, he went up immediately from the water. The heavens suddenly opened for him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming down on him.
Matthew 3:16 (CSB)

Then Jesus left the Jordan, full of the Holy Spirit, and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness.
Luke 4:1 (CSB)

3. Understand the schemes of the enemy

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. ² After he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. ³ Then the tempter approached him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”
Matthew 4:1-3 (CSB)

4. Believe you will overcome

Then the devil left him, and angels came and began to serve him.
Matthew 4:11 (CSB)

Blessed is the one who endures trials, because when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12 (CSB)

When I follow God’s plan I can…

1. Celebrate the Past—What God has done

Mordecai recorded these events and sent letters to all the Jews in all of King Ahasuerus’s provinces, both near and far. 21 He ordered them to celebrate the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar every year 22 because during those days the Jews gained relief from their enemies. That was the month when their sorrow was turned into rejoicing and their mourning into a holiday. They were to be days of feasting, rejoicing, and of sending gifts to one another and to the poor.
Esther 9:20-22 (CSB)

2. Celebrate the Present—What God is doing

They fought on the thirteenth day of the month of Adar and rested on the fourteenth, and it became a day of feasting and rejoicing.18 But the Jews in Susa had assembled on the thirteenth and the fourteenth days of the month. They rested on the fifteenth day of the month, and it became a day of feasting and rejoicing.
Esther 9:17-18 (CSB)

3. Celebrate the Future—What God will continue to do

…the Jews bound themselves, their descendants, and all who joined with them to a commitment that they would not fail to celebrate these two days each and every year according to the written instructions and according to the time appointed. 28 These days are remembered and celebrated by every generation, family, province, and city, so that these days of Purim will not lose their significance in Jewish life and their memory will not fade from their descendants.
Esther 9:27-28 (CSB)

For I know the plans I have for you”—this is the Lord’s declaration—“plans for your well-being, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11 (CSB)

Mordecai the Jew was second only to King Ahasuerus. He was famous among the Jews and highly esteemed by many of his relatives. He continued to pursue prosperity for his people and to speak for the well-being of all his descendants.
Esther 10:3 (CSB)

1. God Reverses My Sentence

Letters were sent by couriers to each of the royal provinces telling the officials to destroy, kill, and annihilate all the Jewish people—young and old, women and children—and plunder their possessions on a single day, the thirteenth day of Adar, the twelfth month.
Esther 3:13 (CSB)

The king’s edict gave the Jews in each and every city the right to assemble and defend themselves, to destroy, kill, and annihilate every ethnic and provincial army hostile to them, including women and children, and to take their possessions as spoils of war.
Esther 8:11 (CSB)

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23 (CSB)

2. God Reverses My Sorrow

When Mordecai learned all that had occurred, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, went into the middle of the city, and cried loudly and bitterly. 2 He went only as far as the King’s Gate, since the law prohibited anyone wearing sackcloth from entering the King’s Gate. 3 There was great mourning among the Jewish people in every province where the king’s command and edict reached. They fasted, wept, and lamented, and many lay in sackcloth and ashes.
Esther 4:1-3 (CSB)

Mordecai went from the king’s presence clothed in royal blue and white, with a great gold crown and a purple robe of fine linen. The city of Susa shouted and rejoiced.
Esther 8:15 (CSB)

…weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.   
Psalm 30:15 (NIV)

3. God Reverses My Situation

Have them bring a royal garment that the king himself has worn and a horse the king himself has ridden, which has a royal crown on its head. 9 Put the garment and the horse under the charge of one of the king’s most noble officials. Have them clothe the man the king wants to honor, parade him on the horse through the city square, and call out before him, ‘This is what is done for the man the king wants to honor.’” The king told Haman, “Hurry, and do just as you proposed. Take a garment and a horse for Mordecai the Jew, who is sitting at the King’s Gate. Do not leave out anything you have suggested.” 11 So Haman took the garment and the horse. He clothed Mordecai and paraded him through the city square, calling out before him, “This is what is done for the man the king wants to honor.”
Esther 6:8-11 (CSB)

The rest of the Jews in the royal provinces assembled, defended themselves, and gained relief from their enemies. They killed seventy-five thousand of those who hated them, but they did not seize any plunder.
Esther 9:16 (CSB)

1. Right Person God’s Person – Am I God’s Man or Woman?

The entire royal staff at the King’s Gate bowed down and paid homage to Haman, because the king had commanded this to be done for him. But Mordecai would not bow down or pay homage.
Esther 3:2 (CSB)

When Haman saw that Mordecai was not bowing down or paying him homage, he was filled with rage.
Esther 3:5 (CSB)

“All the royal officials and the people of the royal provinces know that one law applies to every man or woman who approaches the king in the inner courtyard and who has not been summoned—the death penalty—unless the king extends the gold scepter, allowing that person to live. I have not been summoned to appear before the king for the last thirty days.”  …Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: “Go and assemble all the Jews who can be found in Susa and fast for me. Don’t eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my female servants will also fast in the same way. After that, I will go to the king even if it is against the law. If I perish, I perish.” So Mordecai went and did everything Esther had commanded him.
Esther 3:11; 15-17 (CSB)

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2 (NIV)

2. Right Place – Am I Where God Wants Me to Be?

On the third day, Esther dressed in her royal clothing and stood in the inner courtyard of the palace facing it. The king was sitting on his royal throne in the royal courtroom, facing its entrance. As soon as the king saw Queen Esther standing in the courtyard, she gained favor with him. The king extended the gold scepter in his hand toward Esther, and she approached and touched the tip of the scepter. “What is it, Queen Esther?” the king asked her. “Whatever you want, even to half the kingdom, will be given to you.” “If it pleases the king,” Esther replied, “may the king and Haman come today to the banquet I have prepared for them.”
Esther 5:1-4 (CSB)

3. Right Time – Am I Following God’s Timing?

Who knows perhaps you have come to your royal position for such a time as this.
Esther 4:14 (CSB)

That night sleep escaped the king, so he ordered the book recording daily events to be brought and read to the king. They found the written report of how Mordecai had informed on Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king’s eunuchs who guarded the entrance, when they planned to assassinate King Ahasuerus. The king inquired, “What honor and special recognition have been given to Mordecai for this act?”
Esther 6:1-3 (CSB)

Again, on the second day while drinking wine, the king asked Esther, “Queen Esther, whatever you ask will be given to you. Whatever you seek, even to half the kingdom, will be done.” Queen Esther answered, “If I have found favor with you, Your Majesty, and if the king is pleased, spare my life; this is my request. And spare my people; this is my desire. For my people and I have been sold to destruction, death, and annihilation. If we had merely been sold as male and female slaves, I would have kept silent. Indeed, the trouble wouldn’t be worth burdening the king.” King Ahasuerus spoke up and asked Queen Esther, “Who is this, and where is the one who would devise such a scheme?” Esther answered, “The adversary and enemy is this evil Haman.”
Esther 7:1-6 (CSB)

1. God elevates me through sizable setbacks

Mordecai was the legal guardian of his cousin Hadassah (that is, Esther), because she didn’t have a father or mother. The young woman had a beautiful figure and was extremely good-looking. When her father and mother died, Mordecai had adopted her as his own daughter.
Esther 2:7 (CSB)

Esther did not reveal her ethnic background or her birthplace, because Mordecai had ordered her not to.
Esther 2:10 (CSB)

2. God elevates me through strategic relationships

Every day Mordecai took a walk in front of the harem’s courtyard to learn how Esther was doing and to see what was happening to her.
Esther 2:11 (CSB)

3. God elevates me through significant time

During the year before each young woman’s turn to go to King Ahasuerus, the harem regulation required her to receive beauty treatments with oil of myrrh for six months and then with perfumes and cosmetics for [another] six months.
Esther 2:12 (CSB)

4. God elevates me through substantial favor

The young woman pleased him and gained his favor so that he accelerated the process of the beauty treatments and the special diet that she received. He assigned seven hand-picked female servants to her from the palace and transferred her and her servants to the harem’s best quarters.
Esther 2:9 (CSB)

Esther was the daughter of Abihail, the uncle of Mordecai who had adopted [her] as his own daughter. When her turn came to go to the king, she did not ask for anything except what Hegai, the king’s trusted official in charge of the harem, suggested. Esther won approval in the sight of everyone who saw her.
Esther 2:15 (CSB)

The king loved Esther more than all the other women. She won more favor and approval from him than did any of the other virgins. He placed the royal crown on her head and made her queen in place of Vashti.
Esther 2:17 (CSB)

During those days while Mordecai was sitting at the King’s Gate, Bigthan and Teresh, two eunuchs who guarded the [king’s] entrance, became infuriated and tried to assassinate King Ahasuerus. When Mordecai learned of the plot, he reported it to Queen Esther, and she told the king on Mordecai’s behalf.
Esther 2:21-22 (CSB)

3 Stages of a Life of Praise

1. Determination Phase—I’m deciding to praise

Hallelujah! My soul, praise the Lord. I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing to the Lord as long as I live.
Psalm 146:1-2 (CSB)

2. Distraction Phase—I won’t let people take my eyes of the Lord

Do not trust in nobles, in a son of man, who cannot save. 4 When his breath leaves him, he returns to the ground; on that day his plans die.
Psalm 146:3-4 (CSB)

Happy is the one whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God.
Psalm 146:5 (CSB)

3. Developmental Phase—I will build a life of praise by getting to know God

The Maker of heaven and earth, the sea and everything in them. He remains faithful forever, executing justice for the exploited and giving food to the hungry. The Lord frees prisoners. The Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord raises up those who are oppressed. The Lord loves the righteous. The Lord protects resident aliens and helps the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.
Psalm 146:6-9 (CSB)

He’s Creator

The Maker of heaven and earth, the sea and everything in them…
Psalm 146:6 (CSB)

He’s Faithful

He remains faithful forever…
Psalm 146:6 (CSB)

He’s Just

…executing justice for the exploited and giving food to the hungry. The Lord frees prisoners.
Psalm 146:7 (CSB)

He’s Powerful

The Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord raises up those who are oppressed. The Lord loves the righteous.
Psalm 146:8 (CSB)

He’s Protector

The Lord protects resident aliens and helps the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.
Psalm 146:9 (CSB)

The Lord reigns forever; Zion, your God reigns for all generations. Hallelujah!
Psalm 146:10 (CSB)

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2 (ESV)

1. Does Worry Make Sense?

“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Matthew 6:24-26 (NIV)

Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
Matthew 6:27 (NIV)

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

3. Does Worry Bring Me Closer To God?

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life…
Matthew 6:25 (NIV)

So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
Matthew 6:31-32 (NIV)

Who among you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him.
Matthew 7:9-11 (CSB)

Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:7 (ESV)

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:33-34 (NIV)

Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.
James 1:2-4 (CSB)

When I am afraid, I will trust in you.4 In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?
Psalm 56:3-4 (CSB)

Trust The Process…

1. When I’m Afraid

Be gracious to me, God, for a man is trampling me; he fights and oppresses me all day long.2 My adversaries trample me all day, for many arrogantly fight against me.
Psalm 56:1-2 (CSB)

The fear of mankind is a snare, but the one who trusts in the Lord is protected.
Proverbs 29:25 (CSB)

2. I Will Trust You

When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
Psalm 56:3 (CSB)

You yourself have recorded my wanderings. Put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your book?
Psalm 56:8 (CSB)

…casting all your cares on him, because he cares about you.
1 Peter 5:7 (CSB)

When He saw the crowds, He felt compassion for them, because they were weary and worn out, like sheep without a shepherd.
Matthew 9:36 (CSB)

Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out His hand and touched him. “I am willing,” He told him. “Be made clean.”
Mark 1:41 (CSB)

3. I Will Not Be Afraid

I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?
Psalm 56:4 (CSB)

Then my enemies will retreat on the day when I call. This I know: God is for me.
Psalm 56:9 (CSB)

What, then, are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us?
Romans 8:31 (CSB)

In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise,11 in God I trust; I will not be afraid.
Psalm 56:10 (CSB)

Be strong and courageous; don’t be terrified or afraid of them. For the Lord your God is the one who will go with you; he will not leave you or abandon you.”8 The Lord is the one who will go before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or abandon you. Do not be afraid or discouraged.
Deuteronomy 31:6,8 (CSB)

1. I Have Significant Challenges

Lord, how my foes increase! There are many who attack me. 2 Many say about me, “There is no help for him in God.” Selah
Psalm 3:1-2 (CSB)

No man in all Israel was as handsome and highly praised as Absalom. From the sole of his foot to the top of his head, he did not have a single flaw.
2 Samuel 14:25 (CSB)

2. I Have Divine Resources

But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts up my head.
Psalm 3:3 (CSB)

I cry aloud to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy mountain.
Psalm 3:4 (CSB)

I lie down and sleep; I wake again because the Lord sustains me.
Psalm 3:5 (CSB)

I will not be afraid of thousands of people who have taken their stand against me on every side.
Psalm 3:6 (CSB)

3. I Have Great Expectations

Rise up, Lord! Save me, my God! You strike all my enemies on the cheek; you break the teeth of the wicked. Salvation belongs to the Lord; may your blessing be on your people.
Psalm 3:7-8 (CSB)

Like snow in summer and rain at harvest, honor is inappropriate for a fool.
Proverbs 26:1 (CSB)

1. The Rebel Fool Resists Following Authority

A whip for the horse, a bridle for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools.
Proverbs 26:3 (CSB)

Don’t answer a fool according to his foolishness, or you’ll be like him yourself. 5 Answer a fool according to his foolishness, or he’ll become wise in his own eyes.
Proverbs 26:4-5 (CSB)

The one who sends a message by a fool’s hand cuts off his own feet and drinks violence.
Proverbs 26:6 (CSB)

As a dog returns to its vomit, so also a fool repeats his foolishness.
Proverbs 26:11 (CSB)

2. The Egomaniac Fool Values Their Ideas More Than God’s

Do you see a person who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
Proverbs 26:12 (CSB)

3. The Slacker Fool Looks for the Easiest Way to Get by

The slacker says, “There’s a lion in the road—a lion in the public square!” 14 A door turns on its hinges, and a slacker, on his bed.15 The slacker buries his hand in the bowl; he is too weary to bring it to his mouth!16 In his own eyes, a slacker is wiser than seven who can answer sensibly.
Proverbs 26:13-16 (CSB)

The slacker does not plow during planting season; at harvest time he looks, and there is nothing.
Proverbs 20:4 (CSB)

He gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for himself a people for his own possession, eager to do good works.
Titus 2:14 (CSB)

4. The Gossip Fool Provokes People by Their Words

A person who is passing by and meddles in a quarrel that’s not his is like one who grabs a dog by the ears.
Proverbs 26:17 (CSB)

Like a madman who throws flaming darts and deadly arrows,19 so is the person who deceives his neighbor and says, “I was only joking!” 20 Without wood, fire goes out; without a gossip, conflict dies down. 21 As charcoal for embers and wood for fire, so is a quarrelsome person for kindling strife.
Proverbs 26:18-21 (CSB)

A gossip’s words are like choice food that goes down to one’s innermost being. Smooth lips with an evil heart are like glaze on an earthen vessel. A hateful person disguises himself with his speech and harbors deceit within. When he speaks graciously, don’t believe him, for there are seven detestable things in his heart. Though his hatred is concealed by deception, his evil will be revealed in the assembly. The one who digs a pit will fall into it, and whoever rolls a stone—it will come back on him. A lying tongue hates those it crushes, and a flattering mouth causes ruin.
Proverbs 26:24-28 (CSB)

Brood of vipers! How can you speak good things when you are evil? For the mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart.
Matthew 12:34 (CSB)

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
1 Corinthians 1:18 (CSB)

Why Tithing Is Wise…

1. Honors the Lord

Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; 10 then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.
Proverbs 3:9-10 (ESV)

One tenth of the produce of the land, whether grain from the fields or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD and must be set apart to him as holy.
Leviticus 27:30 (NLT)

2. Allows God to Bless Me

Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; 10 then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.
Proverbs 3:9-10 (ESV)

Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything. The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.
Proverbs 11:24-25 (NLT)

3. Protects Me from Becoming Selfish

The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller.
Proverbs 11:24 (Mess)

For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.
1 Timothy 6:10 (NLT)

4. Makes Me Trust God

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and  do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he  l will make straight your paths. 7 Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. 8 It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. 9 Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; 10 then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.
Proverbs 3:5-10 (ESV)

5. Teaches Me Discipline

We should make plans—counting on God to direct us.
Proverbs 16: 9 (LB)

The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, but those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty.
Proverbs 21:5 (NKJV)

6. Brings Me Joy

A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.
Proverbs 11:25 (NIV)

How Can I Gain Wisdom?

1. Accept Eagerly

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you.
Proverbs 2:1 (CSB)

2. Acquire Continually

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you.
Proverbs 2:1 (CSB)

…listening closely to wisdom and directing your heart to understanding…
Proverbs 2:2 (CSB)

Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding.
Proverbs 2:2 (NLT)

…furthermore, if you call out to insight and lift your voice to understanding… then you will understand the fear of the Lord and discover the knowledge of God.
Proverbs 2:3-5 (CSB)

…furthermore, if you call out to insight and lift your voice to understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it like hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and discover the knowledge of God.
Proverbs 2:3-5 (CSB)

How Does God Respond?

For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
Proverbs 2:6 (CSB)

Then you will understand righteousness, justice, and integrity—every good path.
Proverbs 2:9 (CSB)

He stores up success for the upright; He is a shield for those who live with integrity.
Proverbs 2:7 (CSB)

3. He Guards Your Path

He stores up success for the upright; He is a shield for those who live with integrity so that he may guard the paths of justice and protect the way of his faithful followers.
Proverbs 2:7-8 (CSB)

5 benchmarks of a growing faith

1. My Faith Motivates

So many people gathered together that there was no more room, not even in the doorway, and He was speaking the message to them. Then they came to Him bringing a paralytic, carried by four men.
Mark 2:2-3 (CSB)

2. My Faith Persists

Since they were not able to bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above where He was. And when they had broken through, they lowered the stretcher on which the paralytic was lying.
Mark 2:4 (CSB)

3. My Faith Reconciles

Seeing their faith, Jesus told the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”
Mark 2:5 (CSB)

As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12 (CSB)

4. My Faith Provokes

Right away Jesus understood in His spirit that they were reasoning like this within themselves and said to them, “Why are you reasoning these things in your hearts? 9 Which is easier: to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, pick up your stretcher, and walk’? But so you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins,” He told the paralytic, “I tell you: get up, pick up your stretcher, and go home.”
Mark 2:8-11 (CSB)

5. My Faith Praises

Immediately he got up, picked up the stretcher, and went out in front of everyone. As a result, they were all astounded and gave glory to God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!”
Mark 2:12 (CSB)

What moves the Heart of Jesus?

1. A Courageous Approach

Then a man with leprosy came to him and, on his knees, begged him, “If you are willing, you can make me clean.”
Mark 1:40 (CSB)

2. A Humble Plea

A man with leprosy came and knelt in front of Jesus, begging to be healed. “If you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean,” he said. Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. “I am willing,” he said. “Be healed!”
Mark 1:40-41 (NLT)

Therefore, he says: God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. Therefore, submit to God…Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.
James 4:6-10 (CSB)

The sacrifice pleasing to God is a broken spirit. God, You will not despise a broken and humbled heart.
Psalm 51:17 (CSB)

3. A Faith-Filled Request

“If you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean,” he said. Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. “I am willing,” he said. “Be healed!”
Mark 1:40-41 (NLT)

Jesus said to him, “‘If you can’? Everything is possible for the one who believes.”
Mark 9:23 (CSB)

How does Jesus respond?

1. A Compassionate Heart

Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out his hand and touched him. “I am willing,” he told him.
Mark 1:41 (CSB)

2. A Loving Embrace

Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out his hand and touched him. “I am willing,” he told him.
Mark 1:41 (CSB)

3. A Total Healing

Immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. 
Mark 1:42 (CSB)

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, and see, the new has come!
2 Corinthians 5:17 (CSB)

The Lord does not delay his promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:9 (CSB)

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he got up, went out, and made his way to a deserted place; and there he was praying. 36 Simon and his companions searched for him, 37 and when they found him they said, “Everyone is looking for you.” 38 And he said to them, “Let’s go on to the neighboring villages so that I may preach there too. This is why I have come.” 39 He went into all of Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.
Mark 1:35-39 (CSB)

1. Pick A Place

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he got up, went out, and made his way to a deserted place; and there he was praying.
Mark 1:35 (CSB)

But when you pray, go into your private room, shut your door, and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
Matthew 6:6 (CSB)

2. Set A Time

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he got up, went out, and made his way to a deserted place; and there he was praying.
Mark 1:35 (CSB)

3. Stick To Your Commitment

Simon and his companions searched for him, and when they found him they said, “Everyone is looking for you.”
Mark 1:36-37 (CSB)

4. Expect God To Move

He went into all of Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons. 40 Then a man with leprosy came to him and, on his knees, begged him, “If you are willing, you can make me clean.”
Mark 1:39-40 (CSB)

Why Should I Get Baptized?

1. DECISION—I’m going public with my faith

In those days Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. Mark 1:9 (CSB)

As they were traveling down the road, they came to some water. The eunuch said, “Look, there’s water. What would keep me from being baptized?” 38 So he ordered the chariot to stop, and both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him.
Acts 8:37-38 (CSB)

2. ASSOCIATION—I’m identifying with Jesus

He proclaimed, “One who is more powerful than I am is coming after me. I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the strap of his sandals. 8 I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”
Mark 1:7-8 (CSB)

When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too.
Luke 3:21 (NIV)

Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. 14 But John tried to stop him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and yet you come to me?”15 Jesus answered him, “Allow it for now, because this is the way for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John allowed him to be baptized.
Matthew 3:13-15 (CSB)

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin.
Hebrews 4:15 (CSB)

Or are you unaware that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?4 Therefore we were buried with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in newness[ of life. 5 For if we have been united with him in the likeness of his death, we will certainly also be in the likeness of his resurrection.
Romans 6:3-5 (CSB)

3. AUTHORIZATION—I’m ready for God to send me

As soon as he came up out of the water, he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven: “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well-pleased.” 12 Immediately the Spirit drove him into the wilderness.
Mark 1:10-12 (CSB)

If only you would tear the heavens open and come down, so that mountains would quake at you presence.
Isaiah 64:1 (CSB)

I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”  
Mark 1:8 (CSB)

For those of you who were baptized into Christ have been clothed with Christ.
Galatians 3:27 (CSB)

5 Benefits to having Jesus in your life…

1) Jesus Cares

As soon as they left the synagogue, they went into Simon and Andrew’s house with James and John.30 Simon’s mother-in-law was lying in bed with a fever, and they told him about her at once.
Mark 1:29-30 (CSB)

2) Jesus Touches

Simon’s mother-in-law was lying in bed with a fever, and they told him about her at once. So he went to her, took her by the hand, and raised her up. The fever left her, and she began to serve them.
Mark 1:30-31 (CSB)

Then a man with leprosy came to him and, on his knees, begged him, “If you are willing, you can make me clean.”  41Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out his hand and touched him. “I am willing,” he told him. “Be made clean.”
Mark 1:40-41 (CSB)

3) Jesus Motivates

So he went to her, took her by the hand, and raised her up. The fever left her, and she began to serve them.
Mark 1:31 (CSB)

4) Jesus Delivers

When evening came, after the sun had set, they brought to him all those who were sick and demon-possessed. 33 The whole town was assembled at the door, 34 and he healed many who were sick with various diseases and drove out many demons…
Mark 1:32-34 (CSB)

So He was not able to do any miracles there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. And He was amazed at their unbelief.
Mark 6:5-6 (CSB)

5) Jesus Transforms

The whole town was assembled at the door…
Mark 1:33 (CSB)

They went into Capernaum, and right away he entered the synagogue on the Sabbath and began to teach.22 They were astonished at his teaching because he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not like the scribes. 23 Just then a man with an unclean spirit was in their synagogue. He cried out, 24 “What do you have to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” 25 Jesus rebuked him saying, “Be silent, and come out of him!” 26 And the unclean spirit threw him into convulsions, shouted with a loud voice, and came out of him. 27 They were all amazed, and so they began to ask each other, “What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” 28 At once the news about him spread throughout the entire vicinity of Galilee.
Mark 1:21-28 (CSB)

“I will ascend to the heavens; I will set up my throne above the stars of God. I will sit on the mount of the gods’ assembly, in the remotest parts of the North. 14 I will ascend above the highest clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.”
Isaiah 14:13-14 (CSB)

How Can I Get Under Jesus’ Umbrella?

1. Jesus protects me through his WORDS.

They went into Capernaum, and right away he entered the synagogue on the Sabbath and began to teach.22 They were astonished at his teaching because he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not like the scribes.
Mark 1:21-22 (CSB)

Just then a man with an unclean spirit was in their synagogue. He cried out, 24 “What do you have to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” 25 Jesus rebuked him saying, “Be silent, and come out of him!” 26 And the unclean spirit threw him into convulsions, shouted with a loud voice, and came out of him.27 They were all amazed, and so they began to ask each other, “What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” 28 At once the news about him spread throughout the entire vicinity of Galilee.
Mark 1:23-28 (CSB)

2. Jesus protects me through his DEEDS.

A. Jesus Sets Me Free

B. Jesus Sets Me Straight

C. Jesus Sets Me Apart

If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own. However, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of it, the world hates you.
John 15:19 (CSB)

D. Jesus Sets Me on Fire

Peter and John answered them, “Whether it’s right in the sight of God for us to listen to you rather than to God, you decide; 20 for we are unable to stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.”
Acts 4:20 (CSB)

How Do I Find The Sweet Spot?

1. Repent

After John was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God: 15 “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”
Mark 1:14-15 (CSB)

2. Believe

After John was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God: 15 “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”
Mark 1:14-15 (CSB)

3. Follow

As he passed alongside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew, Simon’s brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. 17 “Follow me,” Jesus told them, “and I will make you fish for people.”18 Immediately they left their nets and followed him.19 Going on a little farther, he saw James the son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat putting their nets in order. 20 Immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.
Mark 1:16-20 (CSB)

Brothers and sisters, consider your calling: Not many were wise from a human perspective, not many powerful, not many of noble birth. 27 Instead, God has chosen what is foolish in the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen what is weak in the world to shame the strong. 28 God has chosen what is insignificant and despised in the world—what is viewed as nothing—to bring to nothing what is viewed as something, 29 so that no one may boast in his presence.
1 Corinthians 1:26-29 (CSB)

Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
1 Corinthians 11:1 (NIV)

4. Go

As he passed alongside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew, Simon’s brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. 17 “Follow me,” Jesus told them, “and I will make you fish for people.”18 Immediately they left their nets and followed him.19 Going on a little farther, he saw James the son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat putting their nets in order. 20 Immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.
Mark 1:16-20 (CSB)

The next day, John was standing with two of his disciples. 36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!”37 The two disciples heard him say this and followed Jesus. 38 When Jesus turned and noticed them following him, he asked them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?” 39 “Come and you’ll see,” he replied. So they went and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day. It was about four in the afternoon. 40 Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard John and followed him. 41 He first found his own brother Simon and told him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated “the Christ”), 42 and he brought Simon to Jesus. When Jesus saw him, he said, “You are Simon, son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which is translated “Peter”).
John 1:35-42 (CSB) 

To get ready for God to do something great…

1) I must GO with Jesus

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
Mark 1:1 (CSB)

Bring Mark with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry.
2 Timothy 4:11 (CSB)

2) I must WALK in humility

As it is written in Isaiah the prophet: See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way. 3 A voice of one crying out in the wilderness: Prepare the way for the Lord; make his paths straight!
Mark 1:2-3 (CSB)

And this was his message: “After me comes the one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie…”
Mark 1:7 (CSB)

You yourselves were there when I made it public that I was not the Messiah but simply the one sent ahead of him to get things ready. The one who gets the bride is, by definition, the bridegroom. And the bridegroom’s friend, his ‘best man’—that’s me—in place at his side where he can hear every word, is genuinely happy. How could he be jealous when he knows that the wedding is finished, and the marriage is off to a good start?
John 3:27-29 (Mess)

3) I must YIELD to the Spirit

In those days Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John.  As soon as he came up out of the water, he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” Immediately the Spirit drove him into the wilderness.
Mark 1:9-11 (CSB)

4) I must STOP falling into temptation

He was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and the angels were serving him.
Mark 1:13 (CSB)

The Lord is my shepherd; I have what I need.2 He lets me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside quiet waters.3 He renews my life; he leads me along the right paths for his name’s sake.4 Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me.5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.6 Only goodness and faithful love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord as long as I live.
Psalm 23:1-6 (CSB)

God meets my needs when…

1. The Lord is my God

The LORD is my shepherd.
Psalm 23:1 (CSB)

2. I Trust That He Is, Even When I’m Not

The LORD is my shepherd.
Psalm 23:1 (CSB)

I, Yahweh, have not changed…
Malachi 3:6 (CSB)

3. I’m Personally Connected

The LORD is my shepherd.
Psalm 23:1 (CSB)

4. I Accept His Care

The Lord is my shepherd; I have what I need.
Psalm 23:1 (CSB)

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will leave the sheep because they aren’t his and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. 13 The hired hand runs away because he is merely hired and has no real concern for the sheep.
John 10:11-13 (NLT)

2 Ways to tell If the Jesus is your shepherd…

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” 
John 10:27

1. Do you hear
2. Do you follow His leadership

Acknowledge that the Lord is God. He made us, and we are His – His people, the sheep of His pasture.
Psalm 100:3 (CSB)

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
John 10:11 (CSB)

1. The Shepherd Knows Me

“I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me, just as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. I lay down my life for the sheep.”
John 10:14-15 (CSB)

I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.
John 10:9 (CSB)

2. The Shepherd Sacrifices for Me

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
John 10:11 (CSB)

No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own. I have the right to lay it down, and I have the right to take it up again. I have received this command from my Father.
John 10:18 (CSB)

3. The Shepherd Will Never Abandon Me

The hired hand, since he is not the shepherd and doesn’t own the sheep, leaves them and runs away when he sees a wolf coming. The wolf then snatches and scatters them. 13 This happens because he is a hired hand and doesn’t care about the sheep.14 “I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. I lay down my life for the sheep.”
John 10:12-15 (CSB)

4. The Shepherd Gives You Eternal Life

I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand.
John 10:28 (CSB)

5. The Shepherd Guards You

I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all. No one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.
John 10:28-29 (CSB)

A thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance.
John 10:10 (CSB)

How long, Lord, must I call for help and you do not listen or cry out to you about violence and you do not save? 3 Why do you force me to look at injustice? Why do you tolerate wrongdoing? Oppression and violence are right in front of me. Strife is ongoing, and conflict escalates.4 This is why the law is ineffective and justice never emerges. For the wicked restrict the righteous; therefore, justice comes out perverted.
Habakkuk 1:2-4 (CSB)

3 Parts of Revival Prayer…

1. Listen

Lord, I have heard the report about you; Lord, I stand in awe of your deeds.
Habakkuk 3:2 (CSB)

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9 (CSB)

Therefore repent and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped out…
Acts 3:19 (CSB)

2. Worship

Lord, I have heard the report about you; Lord, I stand in awe of your deeds.
Habakkuk 3:2 (CSB)

3. Petition

Lord, I have heard the report about you; Lord, I stand in awe of your deeds. Revive your work in these years; make it known in these years. In your wrath remember mercy!
Habakkuk 3:2 (CSB)

Will you not revive us again so that your people may rejoice in you?
Psalm 85:6 (CSB)

1. I Am With You

The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV)

“I will not leave you as orphans; I am coming to you.”
John 14:18 (CSB)

The Lord was with Joseph, and he became a successful man, serving in the household of his Egyptian master.
Genesis 39:2 (CSB)

When his master heard the story his wife told him—“These are the things your slave did to me”—he was furious and had him thrown into prison, where the king’s prisoners were confined. So Joseph was there in prison.21 But the Lord was with Joseph and extended kindness to him. He granted him favor with the prison warden.
Genesis 39:20-21 (CSB)

2. I Will Save You

The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves.
Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV)

For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save the lost.
Luke 19:10 (CSB)

3. I Delight In You

He will take great delight in you…
Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV)

Look, I have inscribed you on the palms of my hands…
Isaiah 49:16 (CSB)

4. I Will Calm You

The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV)

With his love, he will calm all your fears.
Zephaniah 3:17 (NLT)

5. I Celebrate You

The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV)

1) I Have A Problem

Then the people who were already in the land discouraged the people of Judah and made them afraid to build. 5 They also bribed officials to act against them to frustrate their plans throughout the reign of King Cyrus of Persia and until the reign of King Darius of Persia.
Ezra 4:4-5 (CSB)

2) I Have The Holy Spirit

So he answered me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by strength or by might, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord of Armies.’”
Zechariah 4:6 (CSB)

a. The Spirit Flows
b. The Spirit Empowers
c. The Sprit Accomplishes

‘What are you, great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become a plain…’
Zechariah 4:7 (CSB)

d. The Spirit Illuminates

So he answered me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by strength or by might, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord of Armies. 7 ‘What are you, great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become a plain. And he will bring out the capstone accompanied by shouts of: Grace, grace to it!’”
Zechariah 4:6-7 (CSB)

3) When The Holy Spirit Meets My Problems It’s All Grace

“‘What are you, great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become a plain. And he will bring out the capstone accompanied by shouts of: Grace, grace to it!'”
Zechariah 4:7 (CSB)

Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him.
Mark 11:23 (CSB)

“…Become a great plain.”
Zechariah 4:7 (CSB)

“‘And he will bring out the capstone accompanied by shouts of: Grace, grace to it!’”
Zechariah 4:7 (CSB)

Therefore no mountain, however high, can stand before Zerubbabel! For it will flatten out before him! And Zerubbabel will finish building this Temple with mighty shouts of thanksgiving for God’s mercy, declaring that all was done by grace alone.”
Zechariah 4:7 (LB)

Now this is what the Lord says— the one who created you, Jacob, and the one who formed you, Israel—“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and the rivers will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, and the flame will not burn you.
Isaiah 43:1-2 (CSB)

1. GOD CARES FOR YOU

Now this is what the Lord says— the one who created you, Jacob, and the one who formed you, Israel—“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are mine.
Isaiah 43:1 (CSB)

2. GOD IS WITH YOU

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and the rivers will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, and the flame will not burn you.
Isaiah 43:2 (CSB)

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
Hebrews 13:5 (NIV)

The Lord is good, a stronghold in a day of distress; he cares for those who take refuge in him.
Nahum 1:7 (CSB)

1. God is Really Good

The Lord is good, a stronghold in a day of distress; he cares for those who take refuge in him.
Nahum 1:7 (CSB)

I would have despaired had I not believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord.
Psalm 27:13 (AMP)

Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart be courageous. Wait for the Lord.
Psalm 27:14 (CSB)

2. God is Really Strong

The Lord is good, a stronghold in a day of distress; he cares for those who take refuge in him.
Nahum 1:7 (CSB)

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; grief, crying, and pain will be no more, because the previous things have passed away.
Revelation 21:4 (CSB)

The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are protected.
Proverbs 18:10 (CSB)

3. God is Really Compassionate

The Lord is good, a stronghold in a day of distress; he cares for those who take refuge in him.
Nahum 1:7 (CSB)

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.
Psalm 23:1-3 (NIV)

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Psalms 23:5 (NIV)

Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.  Your rod and your staff will protect and comfort me.
Psalm 23:4 (NLT)

The Lord is good, a stronghold in a day of distress; he cares for those who take refuge in him.
Nahum 1:7 (CSB)

After dismissing the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. Well into the night, he was there alone. 24 Meanwhile, the boat was already some distance from land, battered by the waves, because the wind was against them. 25 Jesus came toward them walking on the sea very early in the morning.
Matthew 14:23-25 (CSB)

1. Take A Step of Faith

When the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost!” they said, and they cried out in fear.27 Immediately Jesus spoke to them. “Have courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter answered him, “command me to come to you on the water.” 29 He said, “Come.”
Matthew 14:26-29 (CSB)

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
Matthew 7:7-8 (NIV)

2. Keep Your Focus

…And climbing out of the boat, Peter started walking on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strength of the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink…
Matthew 14:29-30 (CSB)

When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.”  5 Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything.
Luke 5:4-5 (NIV)

When she saw Peter warming himself, she looked closely at him. “You also were with that Nazarene, Jesus,” she said. 68 But he denied it. “I don’t know or understand what you’re talking about,” he said, and went out into the entryway.
Mark 14:67-68 (NIV)

3. Ask For Help

But when he saw the strength of the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!”
Matthew 14:30 (CSB)

4. Receive His Grace

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand, caught hold of him, and said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?”32 When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 33 Then those in the boat worshiped him and said, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
Matthew 14:31-33 (CSB)

1) Clarify Your Christ

When John heard in prison what Christ was doing, he sent his disciples to ask him, “Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?”
Matthew 11:2-3 (NIV)

Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see:  The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.  Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me.”
Matthew 11:4-6 (NIV)

2) Discover What Scripture Says

Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see:  The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.  Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me.”
Matthew 11:4-6 (NIV)

Yet faith comes from listening to this message of good news—the Good News about Christ.
Romans 10:17 (NLT)

3) Don’t Let Circumstances Distract

John the Baptist, who was now in prison, heard about all the things the Messiah was doing. So he sent his disciples to ask Jesus, to ask him, “Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?”
Matthew 11:2-3 (NIV)

4) Remember Jesus Is Patient

I tell you the truth: Among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12 From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it. 13 For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John. 14 And if you are willing to accept it, he is the Elijah who was to come. 15 He who has ears, let him hear.
Matthew 11:7-15 (NIV)

“‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for him who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”
Mark 9:23-24 (NIV)

1) PEOPLE HAVE QUESTIONS

They went in but did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men stood by them in dazzling clothes. 5 So the women were terrified and bowed down to the ground.
Luke 24:3-5 (CSB)

But these words seemed like nonsense to them, and they did not believe the women.
Luke 24:11 (CSB)

The disciples thought he was a ghost But they were startled and terrified and thought they were seeing a ghost.
Luke 24:37 (CSB)

2) JESUS HAS ANSWERS

HE SPEAKS TO OUR FEELINGS

As they were saying these things, he himself stood in their midst. He said to them, “Peace to you!” 37 But they were startled and terrified and thought they were seeing a ghost.
Luke 24:36-37 (CSB)

Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Don’t let your heart be troubled or fearful.
John 14:27 (CSB)

HE SPEAKS TO OUR SENSES

“Why are you troubled?” he asked them. “And why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 Look at my hands and my feet, that it is I myself! Touch me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you can see I have.” 40 Having said this, he showed them his hands and feet. 41 But while they still were amazed and in disbelief because of their joy, he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” 42 So they gave him a piece of a broiled fish…
Luke 24:38-42 (CSB)

HE SPEAKS TO OUR MIND

He told them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you—that everything written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms must be fulfilled.” 45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. 46 He also said to them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead the third day, 47 and repentance for forgiveness of sins will be proclaimed in his name to all the nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
Luke 24:44-46 (CSB)

3) JESUS’ ANSWERS EVOKE RESPONSE

SHARING

You are witnesses of these things. 49 And look, I am sending you what my Father promised. As for you, stay in the city until you are empowered from on high.”
Luke 24:48-49 (CSB)

JOY

After worshiping him, they returned to Jerusalem with great joy.
Luke 24:52 (CSB)

WORSHIP

And they were continually in the temple praising God.
Luke 24:53 (CSB)

Three Marks Of a Grace Filled Life…

1. PASSIONATE WORSHIP

Then one of the Pharisees invited him to eat with him. He entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table. 37 And a woman in the town who was a sinner found out that Jesus was reclining at the table in the Pharisee’s house. She brought an alabaster jar of perfume 38 and stood behind him at his feet, weeping, and began to wash his feet with her tears. She wiped his feet with her hair, kissing them and anointing them with the perfume.
Luke 7:36-38 (CSB)

2. SACRIFICIAL GIVING

She brought an alabaster jar of perfume 38 and stood behind him at his feet, weeping, and began to wash his feet with her tears. She wiped his feet with her hair, kissing them and anointing them with the perfume.
Luke 7:37-38 (CSB)

Don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves the person who gives cheerfully.
2 Corinthians 9:7 (NLT)

3. EXTRAVAGANT LOVE

Jesus replied to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you. ”He said, “Say it, teacher.”41 “A creditor had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 Since they could not pay it back, he graciously forgave them both. So, which of them will love him more?”43 Simon answered, “I suppose the one he forgave more.” “You have judged correctly,” he told him. 44 Turning to the woman, he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she, with her tears, has washed my feet and wiped them with her hair. 45 You gave me no kiss, but she hasn’t stopped kissing my feet since I came in. 46 You didn’t anoint my head with olive oil, but she has anointed my feet with perfume. 47 Therefore I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; that’s why she loved much. But the one who is forgiven little, loves little.” 48 Then he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”49 Those who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this man who even forgives sins?” 50 And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.”
Luke 7:40-50 (CSB)

1. Giving and Gratitude Start With Personal Commitment

Then Jacob made a vow: “If God will be with me and watch over me during this journey I’m making, if he provides me with food to eat and clothing to wear, and if I return safely to my father’s family, then the Lord will be my God.
Genesis 28:20-21 (CSB)

This stone that I have set up as a marker will be God’s house, and I will give to you a tenth of all that you give me.”
Genesis 28:22 (CSB)

2. Giving and Gratitude Grow With Personal Discipline

Then Jacob made a vow: “If God will be with me and watch over me during this journey I’m making, if he provides me with food to eat and clothing to wear… This stone that I have set up as a marker will be God’s house, and I will give to you a tenth of all that you give me.”
Genesis 28:22 (CSB)

God said to Jacob, “Get up! Go to Bethel and settle there. Build an altar there to the God who appeared to you when you fled from your brother Esau.” So Jacob said to his family and all who were with him, “Get rid of the foreign gods that are among you. Purify yourselves and change your clothes. 3 We must get up and go to Bethel. I will build an altar there to the God who answered me in my day of distress. He has been with me everywhere I have gone.”
Genesis 35:1-3 (CSB)

Jacob built an altar there and called the place El-bethel because it was there that God had revealed himself to him when he was fleeing from his brother.
Genesis 35:7 (CSB)

3. Giving and Gratitude Flourish with Personal Appreciation

When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.” 17 He was afraid and said, “What an awesome place this is! This is none other than the house of God. This is the gate of heaven.”
Genesis 28:16-17 (CSB)

Then Jacob made a vow: “If God will be with me and watch over me during this journey I’m making, if he provides me with food to eat and clothing to wear and if I return safely to my father’s family, then the Lord will be my God.
Genesis 28:20-21 (CSB)

“He has been with me everywhere I have gone.”
Genesis 35:3 (CSB)

Be satisfied with what you have, for he himself has said, I will never leave you or abandon you.
Hebrews 13:5 (CSB)

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
James 1:17 (CSB)

“I have put wisdom in the heart of every skilled artisan.”
Exodus 31:6 (CSB)

Therefore he said, “A nobleman traveled to a far country to receive for himself authority to be king and then to return. 13 He called ten of his servants, gave them ten minas, and told them, ‘Engage in business until I come back.”
Luke 19:12-13 (CSB)

1. The Message of the Benevolent King – I must use my time, talent and treasure for the kingdom.

‘Engage in business until I come back.’
Luke 19:12-13 (CSB)

…for every animal of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird of the mountains, and the creatures of the field are mine.
Psalm 50:10-11 (CSB)

2. The Message of the Faithful Servants – I must invest my treasure wisely.

“At his return, having received the authority to be king, he summoned those servants he had given the money to, so that he could find out how much they had made in business. 16 The first came forward and said, ‘Master, your mina has earned ten more minas.’17 “‘Well done, good servant!’ he told him. ‘Because you have been faithful in a very small matter, have authority over ten towns.’”
Luke 19:15-17 (CSB)

Four Types of Biblical Giving You Should Practice This Week…

Tithe

“Every tenth of the land’s produce, grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord.”
Leviticus 27:30 (CSB)

Alms

Offering

Sacrificial Giving

2. The Message of the Faithful Servants – I must invest my treasure wisely.

3. The Message of the Disobedient Servant – I Must Overcome Fear and Trust God.

“And another came and said, ‘Master, here is your mina. I have kept it safe in a cloth 21 because I was afraid of you since you’re a harsh man: you collect what you didn’t deposit and reap what you didn’t sow.’22 “He told him, ‘I will condemn you by what you have said, you evil servant! If you knew I was a harsh man, collecting what I didn’t deposit and reaping what I didn’t sow, 23 why, then, didn’t you put my money in the bank? And when I returned, I would have collected it with interest.’ 24 So he said to those standing there, ‘Take the mina away from him and give it to the one who has ten minas.’”
Luke 19:20-24 (CSB)

Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure — pressed down, shaken together, and running over — will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”
Luke 6:38 (CSB)

‘I tell you, that to everyone who has, more will be given; and from the one who does not have, even what he does have will be taken away.
Luke 19:26 (CSB)

“‘Well done, good servant!’ he told him. ‘Because you have been faithful in a very small matter, have authority over ten towns.’
Luke 19:17 (CSB)

“And another came and said, ‘Master, here is your mina. I have kept it safe in a cloth 21 because I was afraid of you since you’re a harsh man: you collect what you didn’t deposit and reap what you didn’t sow.’
Luke 19:20-21 (CSB)

1. Learning Culture

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching…
Acts 2:42 (CSB)

Take the time and trouble to keep yourself spiritually fit.
1 Timothy 4:7 (Ph)

Continue to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
2 Peter 3:18 (ISV)

2. Praying Culture

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching…and to prayer. 
Acts 2:42 (CSB) 2:42 (CSB)

So Peter was kept in prison, but prayer was being made earnestly to God for him by the church.
Acts 12:5 (CSB)

3. Faith Filled Culture

Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and signs were being performed through the apostles.
Acts 2:44 (CSB)

4. Fellowship Culture

Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with joyful and sincere hearts.
Acts 2:46 (CSB)

Share with the saints in their needs; pursue hospitality.
Romans 12:13 (CSB)

5. Giving Culture

Now all the believers were together and held all things in common. They sold their possessions and property and distributed the proceeds to all, as any had need.
Acts 2:44-45 (CSB)

…for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills.
Psalm 50:10 (NIV)

6. Worship Culture

…praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.
Acts 2:47 (CSB)

7. Growth Culture

…Every day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
Acts 2:47 (CSB)

I will build my church and the gates of hell wont prevail against it.
Matthew 16:18

When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” 14 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”15 “But you,” he asked them, “who do you say that I am?”16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”17 Jesus responded, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but my Father in heaven.18 And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overpower it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will have been loosed in heaven.”20 Then he gave the disciples orders to tell no one that he was the Messiah.
Matthew 16:13-20 (CSB)

And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.
Matthew 16:18 (CSB)

1. GOD GAVE ME KEYS SO I COULD UNLOCK GATES.

“I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will have been loosed in heaven.”
Matthew 16:19 (CSB)

Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time.
Hebrews 4:16 (CSB)

“…they will pick up snakes; if they should drink anything deadly, it will not harm them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will get well.”
Mark 16:18 (CSB)

2. GOD GAVE ME AUTHORITY SO I COULD BIND AND LOOSE.

Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will have been bound in heaven, and whatever you lose on earth will have been loosed in heaven. 19 Again, truly I tell you, if two of you on earth agree about any matter that you pray for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there among them.
Matthew 18:18-20 (CSB)

I will give you the keys (authority) of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you bind [forbid, declare to be improper and unlawful] on earth will have [already] been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose [permit, declare lawful] on earth will have [already] been loosed in heaven.”
Matthew 16:19 (AMP)

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there among them.
Matthew 18:20 (CSB)

1. I am an ALIEN on earth.

Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God’s elect, strangers in the world.
1 Peter 1:1 (NIV)

I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
1 Peter 2:11-12 (NIV)

2. I am a CITIZEN in Heaven.

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 3:20 (NIV)

3. How do citizens of heaven live on Earth?

“My kingdom is not of this world,” said Jesus. “If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would fight, so that I wouldn’t be handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.”
John 18:35-36 (CSB)

Work on the present

Not that I have already reached the goal or am already perfect, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I also have been taken hold of by Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12 (CSB)

Forget the past

Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead…
Philippians 3:13 (CSB)

Get excited about the future

I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:14 (NIV)

…we also eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 3:20 (CSB)

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of King Herod, wise men from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star at its rising and have come to worship him.”
Matthew 2:2 (CSB)

“Rabbi,” Nathanael replied, “You are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel!”
John 1:49 (CSB)

To keep this command without fault or failure until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 God will bring this about in his own time. He is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings, and the Lord of lords.
1 Timothy 6:14-15 (CSB)

Then Pilate went back into the headquarters, summoned Jesus, and said to him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” 34 Jesus answered, “Are you asking this on your own, or have others told you about me?”35 “I’m not a Jew, am I?” Pilate replied. “Your own nation and the chief priests handed you over to me. What have you done?”36 “My kingdom is not of this world,” said Jesus. “If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would fight, so that I wouldn’t be handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.”
John 18:33-36 (CSB)

JESUS IS KING…

1. Jesus is KING over the spiritual realm

“My kingdom is not of this world,” said Jesus. “If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would fight, so that I wouldn’t be handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.”
John 18:37 (CSB)

2. Jesus is the KING over Truth

“Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.”38 “What is truth?” said Pilate.
John 18:37-38 (CSB)

“It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us.”
2 John 1:4 (NIV)

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
2 Timothy 1:7

God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.
Ephesians 1:5

I am writing to you who are God’s children because your sins have been forgiven through Jesus.
1 John 2:12

Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9

“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

3. Jesus is KING over me

Jesus replied, “I was born for this, and I have come into the world for this: to testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.” “What is truth?” said Pilate.
John 18:37-38 (CSB)

…He must increase, but I must decrease.
John 3:30 (ESV)

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.
Matthew 6:33 (CSB)

1) How Do I Make God’s Kingdom A Priority?

…for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Romans 14:17 (CSB)

2) Why Is Kingdom Living A Challenge?

“Therefore I tell you: Don’t worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Isn’t life more than food and the body more than clothing?” Consider the birds of the sky: They don’t sow or reap or gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you worth more than they? 27 Can any of you add one moment to his life span by worrying? 28 And why do you worry about clothes? Observe how the wildflowers of the field grow: They don’t labor or spin thread.”.
Matthew 6:25-28 (CSB)

3) What Are the Rewards Of Kingdom Living?

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.
Matthew 6:33 (CSB)

As we draw closer to God we…

1. Listen More Closely

The man of God sent word to the king of Israel: “Beware of passing that place, because the Arameans are going down there.” 10 So the king of Israel checked on the place indicated by the man of God. Time and again Elisha warned the king, so that he was on his guard in such places.11 This enraged the king of Aram. He summoned his officers and demanded of them, “Tell me! Which of us is on the side of the king of Israel?”12 “None of us, my lord the king,” said one of his officers, “but Elisha, the prophet who is in Israel, tells the king of Israel the very words you speak in your bedroom.”
2 Kings 6:9-12 (CSB)

The secret of the Lord is with those who fear Him…
Psalm 25:14 (NKJ)

Dearly loved friends, don’t always believe everything you hear just because someone says it is a message from God: test it first to see if it really is. For there are many false teachers around.
1 John 4:1 (LB)

So the king said, “Go and see where he is, so I can send men to capture him.” When he was told, “Elisha is in Dothan.”
2 Kings 6:13 (CSB)

2. See More Clearly

When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. “Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?” the servant asked.16 “Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed, “Lord, please open his eyes and let him see.” So the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he saw that the mountain was covered with horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
2 Kings 6:15-17 (CSB)

The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and rescues them.
Psalm 34:7 (CSB)

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so that you may know what is the hope of his calling, what is the wealth of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the mighty working of his strength. 
Ephesians 1:18-19 (CSB)

3. Feel More Deeply

When the king of Israel saw them, he asked Elisha, “Shall I kill them, my father? Shall I kill them?” “Do not kill them,” he answered. “Would you kill those you have captured with your own sword or bow? Set food and water before them so that they may eat and drink and then go back to their master.” 23 So he prepared a great feast for them, and after they had finished eating and drinking, he sent them away, and they returned to their master. So the bands from Aram stopped raiding Israel’s territory.
2 Kings 6:21-24 (CSB)

By faith, Enoch was taken away so that he did not experience death, and he was not to be found because God took him away. For prior to his transformation he was approved, having pleased God.
Hebrews 11:5 (CSB)

4 Marks of a Consistent Faith

1. WALK WITH GOD

Enoch walked with God after he fathered Methuselah 300 years and had other sons and daughters. 23 Thus all the days of Enoch were 365 years. 24 Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him.
Genesis 5:22-24 (ESV)

2. BELIEVE GOD

By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God.
Hebrews 11:5 (ESV)

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. 
Proverbs 3:5-6

3. SHARE GOD

Now Enoch, who lived seven generations after Adam, prophesied about these people. He said, “Look, the Lord is coming with thousands of his holy ones. 15 He will bring the people of the world to judgment. He will convict the ungodly of all the evil things they have done in rebellion and of all the insults that godless sinners have spoken against him.”
Jude 14-15 (NLT)

But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
2 Timothy 4:5 (NIV)

4. PLEASE GOD

By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God. 6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists…
Hebrews 11:5-6 (ESV)

After removing him, he raised up David as their king and testified about him, ‘I have found David the son of Jesse to be a man after my own heart, who will carry out all my will.’
Acts 13:22 (CSB)

…but now your reign will not endure. The Lord has found a man after his own heart, and the Lord has appointed him as ruler over his people, because you have not done what the Lord commanded.”
1 Samuel 13:14 (CSB)

1) Faith Over Fear

The men of Israel saw that they were in trouble because the troops were in a difficult situation. They hid in caves, in thickets, among rocks, and in holes and cisterns. 7 Some Hebrews even crossed the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. Saul, however, was still at Gilgal, and all his troops were gripped with fear.
1 Samuel 13:6-7 (CSB)

“At this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. Anoint him ruler over my people Israel. He will save them from the Philistines because I have seen the affliction of my people, for their cry has come to me.”
1 Samuel 9:16 (CSB)

But I will sing of Your strength and will joyfully proclaim Your faithful love in the morning. For You have been a stronghold for me, a refuge in my day of trouble.
Psalm 59:16 (CSB)

2) Waiting Over Rushing

“When these signs have happened to you, do whatever your circumstances require because God is with you. 8 Afterward, go ahead of me to Gilgal. I will come to you to offer burnt offerings and to sacrifice fellowship offerings. Wait seven days until I come to you and show you what to do.”
1 Samuel 10:7-8 (CSB)

He waited seven days for the appointed time that Samuel had set, but Samuel didn’t come to Gilgal, and the troops were deserting him. 9 So Saul said, “Bring me the burnt offering…”
1 Samuel 13:8-9 (CSB)

3) Worship Over Religion

So Saul said, “Bring me the burnt offering and the fellowship offerings.” Then he offered the burnt offering.10 Just as he finished offering the burnt offering, Samuel arrived. So Saul went out to greet him.
1 Samuel 13:9-10 (CSB)

God, you are my God; I eagerly seek you. I thirst for you; my body faints for you in a land that is dry, desolate, and without water.
Psalm 63:1 (CSB)

4) Responsibility Over Casting Blame

…and Samuel asked, “What have you done? ”Saul answered, “When I saw that the troops were deserting me and you didn’t come within the appointed days and the Philistines were gathering at Michmash, 12 I thought, ‘The Philistines will now descend on me at Gilgal, and I haven’t sought the Lord’s favor.’ So I forced myself to offer the burnt offering.”13 Samuel said to Saul, “You have been foolish. You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you. It was at this time that the Lord would have permanently established your reign over Israel, 14 but now your reign will not endure. The Lord has found a man after his own heart, and the Lord has appointed him as ruler over his people, because you have not done what the Lord commanded.”
1 Samuel 13:11-14 (CSB)

David responded to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.”
2 Samuel 12:25 (CSB)

But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, descendant of Abraham, my friend.
Isaiah 41:8 (CSB)

…and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness, and he was called God’s friend.
James 2:23 (CSB)

I do not call you servants anymore, because a servant doesn’t know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything I have heard from my Father.
John 15:15 (CSB)

4 Marks of a Friend of God

1) FAITH

Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.
Genesis 15:6 (CSB)

He did not waver in unbelief at God’s promise but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God.
Romans 4:20 (CSB)

2) FELLOWSHIP

The Lord said to Abraham…
Genesis 12:1 (CSB)

Abram continued, “Look, you have given me no offspring, so a slave born in my house will be my heir.”4 Now the word of the Lord came to him: “This one will not be your heir; instead, one who comes from your own body will be your heir.”
Genesis 15:3-4 (CSB)

The Lord appeared to Abraham at the oaks of Mamre…
Genesis 18:1-8 (CSB)

3) Fear

Then he said, “Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him. For now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from me.”
Genesis 22:12 (CSB)

The Lord is a friend to those who fear him. He teaches them his covenant.
Psalm 25:14 (NLT)

4) Followship

“As the Father has loved me, I have also loved you. Remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.11 “I have told you these things so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.12 “This is my command: Love one another as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 I do not call you servants anymore, because a servant doesn’t know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything I have heard from my Father.
John 15:12-15 (CSB)

Terah took his son Abram, his grandson Lot (Haran’s son), and his daughter-in-law Sarai, his son Abram’s wife, and they set out together from Ur of the Chaldeans to go to the land of Canaan. But when they came to Haran, they settled there. 32 Terah lived 205 years and died in Haran.
Genesis 11:31-32 (CSB)

1. Hope Comes From God

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13 (NIV)

And again, Isaiah says, “The Root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations; in him the Gentiles will hope.”
Romans 15:12 (NIV)

2. Hope Fills Us With Joy And Peace

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13 (NIV)

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I don’t give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
John 14:27 (NIV)

3. Hope Grows Through Trust

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13 (NIV)

God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” 6 So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?  
Hebrews 13:5-6 (NIV)

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.
Proverbs 3:5-6

I would have despaired had I not believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord In the land of the living.
Psalm 27:13 (AMP)

4. Hope Overflows By The Spirit

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13 (NIV)

I CAN FIND REAL HOPE WHEN…

1. I am Filled with the Spirit

There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him.
Luke 2:25 (CSB)

And don’t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless living, but be filled by the Spirit.
Ephesians 5:18 (CSB)

I say then, walk by the Spirit and you will certainly not carry out the desire of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you don’t do what you want.
Galatians 5:16-17 (CSB)

2. I am Guided by the Spirit

It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah.  Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform for him what was customary under the law.
Luke 2:26-27 (CSB)

But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you.
John 14:26 (CSB)

3. I am Used by the Spirit

Simeon took him up in his arms, praised God, and said,29 Now, Master, you can dismiss your servant in peace, as you promised. 30 For my eyes have seen your salvation. 31 You have prepared it in the presence of all peoples— 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to your people Israel.33 His father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and told his mother Mary, “Indeed, this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed— 35 and a sword will pierce your own soul—that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Luke 2:28-35 (CSB)

There was also a prophetess, Anna, a daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was well along in years, having lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37 and was a widow for eighty-four years.
Luke 2:36-37 (CSB)

1. Staying Faithful

She did not leave the temple, serving God night and day with fasting and prayers. 38 At that very moment, she came up and began to thank God and to speak about him to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
Luke 2:37-38 (CSB)

2. Serving God

She did not leave the temple, serving God night and day with fasting and prayers. 38 At that very moment, she came up and began to thank God and to speak about him to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
Luke 2:37-38 (CSB)

Pray without ceasing.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV)

3. Sharing With Others

At that very moment, she came up and began to thank God and to speak about him to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
Luke 2:38 (CSB)

1. God’s Blessing Come Through Grace

Jacob said to Joseph, “God Almighty appeared to me at Luz in the land of Canaan and blessed me. 4 He said to me, ‘I will make you fruitful and numerous; I will make many nations come from you, and I will give this land as a permanent possession to your future descendants.’
Genesis 48:3-4 (CSB)

2. God’s Blessings Revive Dead Things

Israel said to Joseph, “I never expected to see your face again, but now God has even let me see your offspring.”
Genesis 48:11 (CSB)

3. God’s Blessings Can Rewrite Your Future

Then Joseph took them both—with his right-hand Ephraim toward Israel’s left, and with his left-hand Manasseh toward Israel’s right—and brought them to Israel. 14 But Israel stretched out his right hand and put it on the head of Ephraim, the younger, and crossing his hands, put his left on Manasseh’s head, although Manasseh was the firstborn. 15 Then he blessed Joseph and said: The God before whom my fathers Abraham and Isaac walked, the God who has been my shepherd all my life to this day, 16 the angel who has redeemed me from all harm— may he bless these boys. And may they be called by my name and the names of my fathers Abraham and Isaac, and may they grow to be numerous within the land. 17 When Joseph saw that his father had placed his right hand on Ephraim’s head, he thought it was a mistake and took his father’s hand to move it from Ephraim’s head to Manasseh’s.
Genesis 48:10-17 (CSB)

4 Steps to Mending Broken Relationships

1. Humility

He himself went on ahead and bowed to the ground seven times until he approached his brother.
Genesis 33:3 (CSB)

2. Forgiveness

But Esau ran to meet him, hugged him, threw his arms around him, and kissed him. Then they wept.
Genesis 33:4 (CSB)

And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.
Ephesians 4:32 (CSB)

3. Restitution

He spent the night there and took part of what he had brought with him as a gift for his brother Esau:14 two hundred female goats, twenty male goats, two hundred ewes, twenty rams, 15 thirty milk camels with their young, forty cows, ten bulls, twenty female donkeys, and ten male donkeys. 16 He entrusted them to his slaves as separate herds and said to them, “Go on ahead of me, and leave some distance between the herds.”
Genesis 32:13-16 (CSB)

4. Reconciliation

But Jacob said, “No, please! If I have found favor with you, take this gift from me. For indeed, I have seen your face, and it is like seeing God’s face, since you have accepted me. 11 Please take my present that was brought to you, because God has been gracious to me and I have everything I need.” So Jacob urged him until he accepted.12 Then Esau said, “Let’s move on, and I’ll go ahead of you.”
Genesis 33:10-12 (CSB)

If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Romans 12:18 (CSB)

He made the one who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
2 Corinthians 5:21 (CSB)

To turn losses into wins, I must believe that…

1. I Am Broken

Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him until daybreak. 25 When the man saw that he could not defeat him, he struck Jacob’s hip socket as they wrestled and dislocated his hip. 26 Then he said to Jacob, “Let me go, for it is daybreak.”But Jacob said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.”
Genesis 32:25-26 (CSB)

But if you are without discipline—which all receive—then you are illegitimate children and not sons. 9 Furthermore, we had human fathers discipline us, and we respected them. Shouldn’t we submit even more to the Father of spirits and live?10 For they disciplined us for a short time based on what seemed good to them, but he does it for our benefit, so that we can share his holiness. 11 No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
Hebrews 12:8-11 (CSB)

2. I Am Yielded

Then he said to Jacob, “Let me go, for it is daybreak.” But Jacob said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.”
Genesis 32:26 (CSB)

3. I Am Changed

“What is your name?” the man asked. “Jacob,” he replied. 28 “Your name will no longer be Jacob,” he said. “It will be Israel because you have struggled with God and with men and have prevailed.”
Genesis 32:26-27 (CSB)

4. I Am Blessed

Then he said to Jacob, “Let me go, for it is daybreak.” But Jacob said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.”
Genesis 32:26 (CSB)

5. I Am Thankful

Jacob then named the place Peniel, “For I have seen God face to face,” he said, “yet my life has been spared.”
Genesis 32:30 (CSB)

By faith Jacob, was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and he worshipped leaning on the top of his staff.
Hebrews 11:21 (CSB)

1. TRUE LOVE WOWS

Jacob resumed his journey and went to the eastern country. 2 He looked and saw a well in a field…Rachel came with her father’s sheep, for she was a shepherdess. 10 As soon as Jacob saw his uncle Laban’s daughter Rachel with his sheep, he went up and rolled the stone from the opening and watered his uncle Laban’s sheep. 11 Then Jacob kissed Rachel and wept loudly.
Genesis 29:1-11 (CSB)

2. TRUE LOVE WORKS

So Jacob worked seven years for Rachel, and they seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her.
Genesis 29:20 (CSB)

But if anyone does not provide for his own family, especially for his own household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
1 Timothy 5:8 (CSB)

That evening, Laban took his daughter Leah and gave her to Jacob, and he slept with her. 24 And Laban gave his slave Zilpah to his daughter Leah as her slave. 25 When morning came, there was Leah! So he said to Laban, “What have you done to me? Wasn’t it for Rachel that I worked for you? Why have you deceived me?”
Genesis 29:23-25 (CSB)

And Jacob did just that. He finished the week of celebration, and Laban gave him his daughter Rachel as his wife. 29 And Laban gave his slave Bilhah to his daughter Rachel as her slave. 30 Jacob slept with Rachel also, and indeed, he loved Rachel more than Leah. And he worked for Laban another seven years.
Genesis 29:28 (CSB)

3. TRUE LOVE WAITS

So Jacob worked seven years for Rachel, and they seemed like only a few days
to him because of his love for her. Then Jacob said to Laban, “Since my time is complete, give me my wife, so I can sleep with her.”    
Genesis 29:20-21 (CSB)

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
Galatians 6:7-8 (NIV)

1. GOD IS SEARCHING…I AM FOREVER RESCUED

Jacob left Beer-sheba and went toward Haran. 11 He reached a certain place and spent the night there because the sun had set. He took one of the stones from the place, put it there at his head, and lay down in that place. 12 And he dreamed: A stairway was set on the ground with its top reaching the sky, and God’s angels were going up and down on it. 13 The Lord was standing there beside him, saying, “I am the Lord, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac.
Genesis 28:10-13 (CSB)

“Rabbi,” Nathanael replied, “You are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel!” 50 Jesus responded to him, “Do you believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” 51 Then he said, “Truly I tell you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”
John 1:49-51 (CSB)

2. GOD IS NEAR…I AM NEVER ALONE

Look, I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go.
Genesis 28:15 (CSB)

When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.” 17 He was afraid and said, “What an awesome place this is! This is none other than the house of God. This is the gate of heaven.”
Genesis 28:16-17 (CSB)

Be satisfied with what you have, for he himself has said, I will never leave you or abandon you.
Hebrews 13:5 CSB

3. GOD IS GRACIOUS…I AM ALWAYS BLESSED

The Lord was standing there beside him, saying, “I am the Lord, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac. I will give you and your offspring the land on which you are lying. 14 Your offspring will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out toward the west, the east, the north, and the south. All the peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring. 15 Look, I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go. I will bring you back to this land, for I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”
Genesis 28:13-15 (CSB)

4. GOD IS HELPFUL…I AM THOROUGHLY CAPABLE

Then Jacob made a vow: “If God will be with me and watch over me during this journey I’m making, if he provides me with food to eat and clothing to wear, 21 and if I return safely to my father’s family, then the Lord will be my God. 22 This stone that I have set up as a marker will be God’s house, and I will give to you a tenth of all that you give me.”
Genesis 28:20-22 (CSB)

I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13 (CSB)

Don’t look for shortcuts to God. The market is flooded with surefire, easygoing formulas for a successful life that can be practiced in your spare time. Don’t fall for that stuff, even though crowds of people do. The way to life—to God!—is vigorous and requires total attention.
Matthew 7:13 (Mess)

Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and lentil stew. Esau ate and drank and went on about his business, indifferent to the fact that he had given up his birthright.
Genesis 25:34 (NLT)

Overcome Shortcuts with…

1) Persevering Patience

Jacob replied to his father, “I am Esau, your firstborn. I have done as you told me. Please sit up and eat some of my game so that you may bless me.”20 But Isaac said to his son, “How did you ever find it so quickly, my son? ”He replied, “Because the Lord your God made it happen for me.”
Genesis 27:19-20 (CSB)

2) Total Trust

So he said, “Isn’t he rightly named Jacob? For he has cheated me twice now. He took my birthright, and look, now he has taken my blessing.” Then he asked, “Haven’t you saved a blessing for me?”37 But Isaac answered Esau, “Look, I have made him a master over you, have given him all of his relatives as his servants, and have sustained him with grain and new wine. What then can I do for you, my son?”
Genesis 27:36-37 (CSB)

The LORD said to her, “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger.”
Genesis 25:23 (NIV)

Esau said, “Isn’t he rightly named Jacob? He has deceived me these two times: He took my birthright, and now he’s taken my blessing!” Then he asked, “Haven’t you reserved any blessing for me?”
Genesis 27:36 (NIV)

But Isaac answered Esau, “Look, I have made him a master over you, have given him all of his relatives as his servants, and have sustained him with grain and new wine. What then can I do for you, my son?”
Genesis 27:37 (CSB)

1. Believe you are blessed

Isaac sowed seed in that land, and in that year he reaped a hundred times what was sown. The Lord blessed him, 13 and the man became rich and kept getting richer until he was very wealthy.
Genesis 26:12-13 (CSB)

And Abimelech said to Isaac, “Leave us, for you are much too powerful for us.” 17 So Isaac left there, camped in the Gerar Valley, and lived there.
Genesis 26:16-17 (CSB)

How we praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we belong to Christ.
Ephesians 1:3 (NLT)

For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.
Proverbs 23:7 (KJV)

2. Refocus on the Provider

And Abimelech said to Isaac, “Leave us, for you are much too powerful for us.” 17 So Isaac left there, camped in the Gerar Valley, and lived there. 18 Isaac reopened the wells that had been dug in the days of his father Abraham and that the Philistines had stopped up after Abraham died. He gave them the same names his father had given them. 19 Then Isaac’s servants dug in the valley and found a well of spring water there. 20 But the herdsmen of Gerar quarreled with Isaac’s herdsmen and said, “The water is ours!” So he named the well Esek because they argued with him. 21 Then they dug another well and quarreled over that one also, so he named it Sitnah. 22 He moved from there and dug another, and they did not quarrel over it. He named it Rehoboth and said, “For now the Lord has made space for us, and we will be fruitful in the land.”
Genesis 26:16-22 (CSB)

3. Remember God is with you

From there he went up to Beer-sheba, 24 and the Lord appeared to him that night and said, “I am the God of your father Abraham. Do not be afraid, for I am with you. I will bless you and multiply your offspring because of my servant Abraham.”25 So he built an altar there, called on the name of the Lord, and pitched his tent there. Isaac’s servants also dug a well there.
Genesis 26:23-25 (CSB)

4. Glorify God always

Now Abimelech came to him from Gerar with Ahuzzath his adviser and Phicol the commander of his army. 27 Isaac said to them, “Why have you come to me? You hated me and sent me away from you.”28 They replied, “We have clearly seen how the Lord has been with you. We think there should be an oath between two parties—between us and you. Let us make a covenant with you: 29 You will not harm us, just as we have not harmed you but have done only what was good to you, sending you away in peace. You are now blessed by the Lord.”30 So he prepared a banquet for them, and they ate and drank.
Genesis 26:26-30 (CSB)

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Romans 12:18 (NIV)

This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.
Deuteronomy 30:19 (NIV)

When the men of the place asked about his wife, he said, “She is my sister,” for he was afraid to say “my wife,” thinking, “The men of the place will kill me on account of Rebekah, for she is a beautiful woman.”
Genesis 26:7 (CSB)

1. LISTEN TO WHAT GOD SAYS

Now there was a famine in the land—besides the previous famine in Abraham’s time—and Isaac went to Abimelek king of the Philistines in Gerar. 2 The Lord appeared to Isaac and said, “Do not go down to Egypt; live in the land where I tell you to live. 3 Stay in this land for a while, and I will be with you and will bless you. For to you and your descendants I will give all these lands and will confirm the oath I swore to your father Abraham. 4 I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and will give them all these lands, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, 5 because Abraham obeyed me and did everything I required of him, keeping my commands, my decrees and my instructions.” 6 So Isaac stayed in Gerar.
Genesis 26:1-6 (NIV)

Isaac sowed seed in that land, and in that year he reaped a hundred times what was sown. The Lord blessed him.
Genesis 26:12 (CSB)

There was a famine in the land, so Abram went down to Egypt to stay there for a while because the famine in the land was severe.
Genesis 12:10 (CSB)

And now that you belong to Christ, you are the true children of Abraham. You are his heirs, and God’s promise to Abraham belongs to you.
Galatians 3:29 (NLT)

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5 he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.
Ephesians 1:4-5 (CSB)

2. LEARN FROM THE EXAMPLE OF FAMILY

When the men of that place asked him about his wife, he said, “She is my sister,” because he was afraid to say, “She is my wife.” He thought, “The men of this place might kill me on account of Rebekah, because she is beautiful.” 8 When Isaac had been there a long time, Abimelech king of the Philistines looked down from a window and saw Isaac caressing his wife Rebekah. 9 So Abimelech summoned Isaac and said, “She is really your wife! Why did you say, ‘She is my sister’?” Isaac answered him, “Because I thought I might lose my life on account of her.” 10 Then Abimelech said, “What is this you have done to us? One of the men might well have slept with your wife, and you would have brought guilt upon us.”
Genesis 26:7-10 (NIV)

From there Abraham traveled to the region of the Negev and settled between Kadesh and Shur. While he was staying in Gerar, 2 Abraham said about his wife Sarah, “She is my sister.” So King Abimelech of Gerar had Sarah brought to him. But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night and said to him, “You are about to die because of the woman you have taken, for she is a married woman.”
Genesis 20:1-3 (CSB)

Now there was a famine in the land, and Abram went down to Egypt to live there for a while because the famine was severe. 11 As he was about to enter Egypt, he said to his wife Sarai, “I know what a beautiful woman you are. When the Egyptians see you, they will say, ‘This is his wife.’ Then they will kill me but will let you live. Say you are my sister, so that I will be treated well for your sake and my life will be spared because of you.”
Genesis 12:10-12 (NIV)

So if the Son sets you free, you will indeed be free.
John 8:36 (NLT)

Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.
Deuteronomy 30:19 (NIV)

1. STUFF

These are the family records of Isaac son of Abraham. Abraham fathered Isaac. 20 Isaac was forty years old when he took as his wife Rebekah daughter of Bethuel the Aramean from Paddan-aram and sister of Laban the Aramean. 21 Isaac prayed to the Lord on behalf of his wife because she was childless. The Lord was receptive to his prayer, and his wife Rebekah conceived. 22 But the children inside her struggled with each other, and she said, “Why is this happening to me?” So she went to inquire of the Lord. 23 And the Lord said to her: Two nations are in your womb; two peoples will come from you and be separated. One people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger.
Genesis 25:19-23 (CSB)

Isaac prayed to the Lord on behalf of his wife because she was childless.
Genesis 25:21 (CSB)

But the children inside her struggled with each other, and she said, “Why is this happening to me?” So she went to inquire of the Lord.
Genesis 25:22 (CSB)

Never stop praying.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 (GW)

2. SELF

When the boys grew up, Esau became an expert hunter, an outdoorsman, but Jacob was a quiet man who stayed at home. 28 Isaac loved Esau because he had a taste for wild game, but Rebekah loved Jacob.29 Once when Jacob was cooking a stew, Esau came in from the field exhausted. 30 He said to Jacob, “Let me eat some of that red stuff, because I’m exhausted.” That is why he was also named Edom. 31 Jacob replied, “First sell me your birthright.”32 “Look,” said Esau, “I’m about to die, so what good is a birthright to me?”33 Jacob said, “Swear to me first.” So he swore to Jacob and sold his birthright to him. 34 Then Jacob gave bread and lentil stew to Esau; he ate, drank, got up, and went away. So Esau despised his birthright.
Genesis 25:27-34 (CSB)

And make sure that there isn’t any immoral or irreverent person like Esau, who sold his birthright in exchange for a single meal. 17 For you know that later, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, even though he sought it with tears, because he didn’t find any opportunity for repentance.
Hebrews 12:16-17 (CSB)

When Esau was forty years old, he took as his wives Judith daughter of Beeri the Hethite, and Basemath daughter of Elon the Hethite. 35 They made life bitter for Isaac and Rebekah.
Genesis 26:34 (CSB)

By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and, he worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff.
Hebrews 11:21 (CSB)

1. Take responsibility for your kids

My son, pay attention to my wisdom; listen carefully to my wise counsel.  Then you will learn to be discreet and will store up knowledge.
Proverbs 5:1-2 (NLT)

2. Train your kids to run from temptation

The lips of an immoral woman are as sweet as honey, and her mouth is smoother than oil.  But the result is as bitter as poison, sharp as a double-edged sword.  Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave.  For she does not care about the path to life. She staggers down a crooked trail and doesn’t even realize where it leads. So now, my sons, listen to me. Never stray from what I am about to say:  Run from her! Don’t go near the door of her house!
Proverbs 5:3-8 (NLT)

Can a man scoop fire into his lap without his clothes being burned? Can a man walk on hot coals without his feet being scorched? So is he who sleeps with another man’s wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished.
Proverbs 6:27-29 (NIV)

A.  Keep your wealth

Strangers will obtain your wealth, and someone else will enjoy the fruit of your labor.
Proverbs 5:10 (NLT)

B.  Uphold your health 

Afterward you will groan in anguish when disease consumes your body.
Proverbs 5:11 (NLT)

C. Value your reputation

I have come to the brink of utter ruin, and now I must face public disgrace.”
Proverbs 5:14 (NLT)

D. Don’t leave God out

But the man who commits adultery is an utter fool, for he destroys himself.
Proverbs 6:32 (NLT)

Drink water from your own well—share your love only with your wife.  Why spill the water of your springs in public, having sex with just anyone?  You should reserve it for yourselves. Don’t share it with strangers.  Let your wife be a fountain of blessing for you. Rejoice in the wife of your youth.  She is a loving doe, a graceful deer. Let her breasts satisfy you always. May you always be captivated by her love.  Why be captivated, my son, with an immoral woman, or embrace the breasts of an adulterous woman?  For the LORD sees clearly what a man does, examining every path he takes.  An evil man is held captive by his own sins; they are ropes that catch and hold him.  He will die for lack of self-control; he will be lost because of his incredible folly.
Proverbs 5:15-23 (NLT)

Should your springs overflow in the streets, your streams of water in the public squares?
Proverbs 5:16 (NIV)

May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.     
Proverbs 5:18 (NIV)

A loving doe, a graceful deer–may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be captivated by her love.
Proverbs 5:19 (NIV)

Let’s look at the four chairs of the family…

1. The God Chair—God Leads

And let the peace of Christ, to which you were also called in one body, rule your hearts. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell richly among you, in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:15-17 (CSB)

2. The Wife Chair—She Supports

Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.
Colossians 3:18 (CSB)

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Ephesians 5:21 (NIV)

But I want you to know that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of the woman, and God is the head of Christ.
1 Corinthians 11:3 (CSB)

3. The Husband/Dad Chair—He Loves and Encourages

Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.
Colossians 3:19 (NIV)

In the same way, husbands are to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.
Ephesians 5:28 (CSB)

Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so that they won’t become discouraged.
Colossians 3:21 (CSB)

Fathers, don’t stir up anger in your children, but bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Ephesians 6:4 (CSB)

4. The Kid Chair—They Obey

Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.
Colossians 3:20 (CSB)

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, because this is right. 2 Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise, 3 so that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life in the land.
Ephesians 6:1-3 (CSB)

I can have harmony in my family by…

1.  Avoiding Paybacks

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Give careful thought to do what is honorable in everyone’s eyes.
Romans 12:17 (CSB)

2.  Pursuing Peace

If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.   
Romans 12:18 (CSB)

3.  Trusting God

Friends, do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for God’s wrath, because it is written, Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord.
Romans 12:19 (CSB)

When the disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?”
Luke 9:54 (CSB)

4.  Extending Grace

But If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him something to drink. For in so doing you will be heaping fiery coals on his head.
Romans 12:20 (CSB)

5.  Overcoming Evil

Do not be conquered by evil, but conquer evil with good.
Romans 12:17-21 (CSB)

Pursue peace with everyone, and holiness—without it no one will see the Lord.
Hebrews 12:14 (CSB)

“I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?”
Jeremiah 32:27 (NIV)

Even when Job was in pain and distress, he said to the Lord,” ‘I know that You can do all things. No plan of Yours can be thwarted’”
Job 42:2 (NKHV)

The archangel Gabriel reassured Mary by saying, “With God nothing will be impossible”
Luke 1:37 (ESV)

1. HE’S POWERFUL ENOUGH TO PROVIDE FOR YOU

Not only is God able to save you, but He’s able to meet all of your needs. And God is able to make every grace overflow to you, so that in every way, always having everything you need, you may excel in every good work.
2 Corinthians 9:8 (CSB)

Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.”
Luke 6:38 (NLT)

For the Lord God is a sun and shield. The Lord gives grace and glory; He does not withhold the good from those who live with integrity.
Psalm 84:11 (CSB)

As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed him, calling out, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” 28 When he entered the house, the blind men approached him, and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I can do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.”29 Then he touched their eyes, saying, “Let it be done for you according to your faith.”
Matthew 9:27-29 (CSB)

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
Ephesians 6:10 (NIV)

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 41:10 (NLT)

Therefore, he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, since he always lives to intercede for them.
Hebrews 7:25 (CSB)

For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it.
James 2:10 (ESV)

That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.
2 Timothy 1:12 (NIV)

I am a God who is everywhere and not in one place. Do you not know that I am everywhere in heaven and on earth?
Jeremiah 23:24 (GN)

Where can I go to escape Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence? 8 If I go up to heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, You are there.
Psalm 139:7-8 (CSB)

For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39 (CSB)

If I live at the eastern horizon [or] settle at the western limits,10 even there Your hand will lead me; Your right hand will hold on to me.
Psalm 139:9-10 (CSB)

If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me, and the light around me will become night” 12even the darkness is not dark to You. The night shines like the day; darkness and light are alike to You.
Psalm 139:11-12 (CSB)

God’s Presence…
1. Comforts Me When I’m Afraid

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and the rivers will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, and the flame will not burn you.
Isaiah 43:2 (CSB)

I am always aware of the Lord’s presence; he is near, and nothing can shake me. And so I am thankful and glad, and I feel completely secure…
Psalm 16:8-9 (GN)

God’s Presence…
2. Helps Me When I’m In Need

Keep your life free from the love of money. Be satisfied with what you have, for he himself has said, I will never leave you or abandon you. 6 Therefore, we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?
Hebrews 13:5-6 (CSB)

I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?
Hebrews 13:5-6 (CSB)

I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself. 12 I know how to make do with little, and I know how to make do with a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:12-13 (CSB)

God’s Presence…
3. Empowers Me When I’m Tempted

No temptation has come upon you except what is common to humanity. But God is faithful; he will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to bear it.
1 Corinthians 10:13 (CSB)

Don’t you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God?
1 Corinthians 6:19 (CSB)

Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
Hebrews 4:13 (NIV)

God’s Presence…
4. Assures Me When I’m Alone

The Lord is the one who will go before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or abandon you. Do not be afraid or discouraged.”
Deuteronomy 31:8 (CSB)

You reveal the path of life to me; in your presence is abundant joy; at your right hand are eternal pleasures.
Psalm 16:11 (CSB)

He counts the number of the stars; he gives names to all of them.5 Our Lord is great, vast in power; his understanding is infinite. Psalm 147:4-5 CSB

What Does God Know?

1. God Knows My Faults

For a man’s ways are before the Lord’s eyes, and he considers all his paths.
Proverbs 5:21 (CSB)

The one who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy.
Proverbs 28:13 (CSB)

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9 (CSB)

2. God Knows My Hurts

Lord, you have searched me and known me.
Psalm 139:1 (CSB)

You know how troubled I am; you have kept a record of my tears.
Psalm 56:6 (GNT)

He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds.
Psalm 147:3 (CSB)

…casting all your cares on him, because he cares about you.
1 Peter 5:7 (CSB)

Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 (CSB)

3. God Knows My Needs

And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19 (ESV)

For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Who among you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone?
Matthew 7:8-9 (CSB)

4. God Knows My Future

Your eyes saw me when I was formless; all my days were written in your book and planned before a single one of them began.
Psalm 139:16 (NLT)

For I know the plans I have for you”—this is the Lord’s declaration—“plans for your well-being, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do.
Ephesians 2:10 (CSB)

On one of those days while he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea, and also from Jerusalem. And the Lord’s power to heal was in him.18 Just then some men came, carrying on a stretcher a man who was paralyzed. They tried to bring him in and set him down before him. 19 Since they could not find a way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on the stretcher through the roof tiles into the middle of the crowd before Jesus. 20 Seeing their faith he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.” 21 Then the scribes and the Pharisees began to think to themselves, “Who is this man who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” But perceiving their thoughts, Jesus replied to them, “Why are you thinking this in your hearts? 23 Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? 24 But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he told the paralyzed man, “I tell you: Get up, take your stretcher, and go home.” 25 Immediately he got up before them, picked up what he had been lying on, and went home glorifying God. 26 Then everyone was astounded, and they were giving glory to God. And they were filled with awe and said, “We have seen incredible things today.”
Luke 5: 17-26 (CSB)

1. I Need Friends…Who Have A Working Faith

Just then some men came, carrying on a stretcher a man who was paralyzed. They tried to bring him in and set him down before him. 19 Since they could not find a way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on the stretcher through the roof tiles into the middle of the crowd before Jesus.
Luke 5:18-19 (CSB)

2. I Need Friends…Who Have An Inspiring Faith

Seeing their faith he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.”
Luke 5:20 (CSB)

3. I Need Jesus…To Encourage Me

Some people brought to him a paralyzed man on a mat. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “Be encouraged, my child! Your sins are forgiven.”
Matthew 9:2 (NLT)

4. I Need Jesus…To Forgive Me

Some people brought to him a paralyzed man on a mat. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “Be encouraged, my child! Your sins are forgiven.” 
Matthew 9:2 (NLT)

Seeing their faith he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.” 
Luke 5:20 (CSB)

The prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up; if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed.
James 5:15-16 (CSB)

5. I Need Jesus…To Heal Me

So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!”
Matthew 9:6 (NLT)

On one of those days while he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea, and also from Jerusalem. And the Lord’s power to heal was in him.
Luke 5:17 (NLT)