Overcoming Fear With Faith - 2 Timothy 1:7

Overcoming Fear with Faith

September 15, 2024

2 Timothy 1:7

Good morning friends! I hope you are doing well.

Let’s pray: “Dear Lord, thank you for your protection over us. Thank you for watching over us continually. Please speak to us through your Word today. In Jesus name, Amen.”

BIBLE READING

2 Timothy 1:6-7

“Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

INTRODUCTION

I grew up with a fear of heights. When I was really young, maybe 8 or 9, I tried walking along the top of a fence. It had been raining previously, and the fence was wet and slippery. Of course, I slipped, and fell flat on my back, onto a concrete path. It knocked all the air out of my lungs and I was gasping for air. This experience gave me a fear of heights. 

While having a fear of heights protected me from danger, it was excessive and unreasonable. I was not able to go more than two rungs up a ladder, even if it was totally safe. My fear held me back from doing so. So this fear of heights was a problem. Thankfully when I was 19, I learned to overcome this fear, and yet still be careful.

Most of us fear something. Fear is something we all face. Whether it’s fear of the unknown, fear of failure, or fear of rejection, it can stop us from moving forward. But God has given us a powerful tool to overcome fear—our faith. In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul reminds us that God hasn’t given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and a sound mind. 

Today, we’re going to explore how we can overcome fear with the faith God has given us. 

We are going to examine how faith in God helps us face our fears and overcome the trials that come our way. We’ll see how God gives us the strength to replace fear with courage, love, and peace of mind.

POWER TO OVERCOME FEAR

Have you ever watched a storm roll in? The sky grows darker, the clouds are ominous. The wind picks up, and then the rain starts pouring down. If you’re caught outside, it’s scary. But when you’re safe inside a sturdy house, the fear fades. You know the storm can’t touch you inside because you’re protected.

In the same way, God has given us a spirit of power to face the storms of life. 

We don’t need to be afraid because we’re protected by God’s power. Fear tries to convince us that we’re weak, but God’s power in us is greater than any challenge or trial we face. His power enables us to move forward, even when we feel afraid.

Isaiah 41:10

"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

Psalm 27:1 

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"

Ephesians 6:10 

"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might."

LOVE DRIVES OUT FEAR

I once worked for an employer, who was actually a very good boss. At the time however, I had a fear of people in positions of authority over me, which started when I was growing up. The trouble is that these fears are immature and we need to overcome them. Otherwise the fears will hold us back from God’s purposes for our life. I decided to apply the verse we are studying to the situation.

Instead of being afraid of my boss, I told myself “I love my boss. I care about what happens in his life. I pray for God to help him. I love him with the love that God has placed in my heart.” Once I started praying for my boss, and changing my perspective, I found he was not so scary after all.

In our Bible reading, it appears that Timothy, a young pastor, was afraid of people and their possible reactions to his messages. Paul encourages him to trust in God.

2 Timothy 1:6-7

“Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

God’s love in us, provides the way to cast out the fear.

God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of love. His love for us is perfect, and His perfect love casts out fear. When we understand just how much God loves us, it becomes easier to trust Him and let go of fear. The more we focus on God’s love, the less room there is for fear in our hearts.

1 John 4:18 

"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love."

Romans 8:38-39 

"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come... shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

John 15:9 

"As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love."

A SOUND MIND OVERCOMES FEAR

Sometimes we panic. We become afraid. I used to hike on the Pacific Crest Trail in California. One time I had set myself to hike a long stretch along a ridge, 30 miles, which had no water sources. I planned to cover it in two days. This meant I had to carry enough water in my backpack to cover my needs. The first day started fine. As I walked though, it became very hot. I would take little sips of water. The backpack felt more and more heavy, because of the water I was carrying. And my feet started to blister because of the weight I was carrying. This slowed me down. I had planned to travel 15 miles each day. After 12 miles though, I could not go any further. The pain in my feet and back, my tiredness and the high temperature were too much. So I stopped, and camped for the night. I was dehydrated, and during the night I kept sipping water. 

In the morning I thought about my situation. I had used up more than half of my water. Because I had only hiked 12 miles the day before, I now had to hike 18 miles, with blistered feet, but with insufficient water. I was in trouble. I found a place where I could find a cell phone signal, and texted my wife, asking her to contact the ranger. Thankfully, they were able to get me off the ridge, and back to civilization. I was very close to panicking that day. But by praying to God and thinking through the situation I was able to take the right steps.

God gives us a sound mind—self-discipline and peace to think clearly even when fear tries to confuse us. When we keep our focus on God and His Word, our minds are strengthened. We can think calmly and clearly, trusting that God is guiding us through every trial.

Philippians 4:6-7

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

Isaiah 26:3 

"You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You."

We don't need to give in to fear or anxiety. God gives us the abilty to think clearly, when we ask him to direct our path.

Romans 12:2

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." 

SUMMARY

God has not given us a spirit of fear.

Instead, He has given us power to face any challenge.

He has given us love to cast out fear and remind us of His care.

And he has given us a sound mind to think clearly and trust Him even when trials come.

CONCLUSION

Fear can stop us from climbing up ladders, it can hurt our relationship with our employer, and it can cause panic when the situation becomes intense.

But God invites us to trust Him. He has given us everything we need to overcome fear—His power, His love, and a sound mind. When fear tries to hold us back, we can move forward in faith, knowing that God is with us, guiding us, and protecting us.

PRAYER

“Dear Lord, thank you for walking with us through the fire of every situation. You are not far from us, but with us, even dwelling inside us through your Holy Spirit. Please help us to overcome fear and trust You completely, no matter what trials we face. Remind us daily of Your great love for us and give us that peace that passes all understanding. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

From Death to Life - John 11:1-44

The Raising of Lazarus 

John 11:1-44 

September 8, 2024

BIBLE READING 

John 11:1-44

INTRODUCTION

Have you ever needed something, waited for it, and then felt time was running out?

I had one of these times. 

My wife and I were planting a church in Wisconsin. We were totally dependent on God’s support. I had tried to get work, but had only had a few short assignments. Somehow we managed. We were even able to buy a house. 

But the mortgage was coming due. 
We did not have the money to do this. I was forced to trust God to provide. The time when we needed to pay, got closer and closer. We kept praying. Now it was just 3 days before the mortgage was due.

Have you had a time like this, when you desperately needed help, prayed for it, expected an answer, but it didnt seem to be coming? It seems the longer we wait, the harder it can be to keep hope.

In John 11, we read about Lazarus, a close friend of Jesus, who became very sick. His sisters, Mary and Martha, sent word to Jesus, hoping He would come quickly to heal their brother. Instead of rushing, Jesus waited. By the time He arrived, Lazarus had been dead for four days. But what seemed like a delay was actually a setup for a powerful miracle.

Today, we’ll explore how the story of Lazarus teaches us to trust God even when we face trials, delays, and disappointments. We’ll see that God’s timing is always perfect, and even in our darkest moments, He is at work. He is faithful to his promises.

What does this passage teach us about how we deal with trials? 

It shows us that even when we feel like God is delaying or that all hope is lost, He is still in control. Our trials can be opportunities for God to display His power and bring new life.

TRUST GOD’S TIMING

Have you been stuck in traffic, trying to make it to an important appointment? Every minute that passes makes you more anxious, wondering if you’ll miss it altogether. But sometimes, delays can keep us safe from things we don’t even see ahead.

In the story of Lazarus, Mary and Martha must have felt anxious and heartbroken when Jesus didn’t show up right away. They trusted Him to heal their brother, but instead, Jesus delayed. 

What they didn’t realize was that this delay had a purpose. Jesus was about to do something far greater than healing a sickness - He was about to raise Lazarus from the dead.

John 11:4 
"When Jesus heard that, He said, 'This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.'"

We don't know why God did not intervene immediately. God does things in his own time, knowing all things. Sometimes he wants us to learn a lesson, sometimes he is teaching someone else, sometimes he is giving someone time to repent so they can pray for us. Sometimes God wants to answer our prayers in an unexpected manner, requiring a delayed response. We don't know the reasons, our position is to continue trusting our Father, that he knows best.
  
Isaiah 55:8-9 
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,' says the Lord. 'For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.'"

God thinks differently than we do. Sometimes we create God in our image, we see him as being like us, and living up to our expectations. While he is the creator of the universe! I can't even build a house, or repair my car. God is so much wiser, all-knowing and all-powerful. 

Ecclesiastes 3:1 
"To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven."

Things happen in life. We live in a fallen world. No matter where this trial comes from, God is continually with us as we walk through the fire. Remember Daniel's friends (Daniel 3:24-25).

GOD HAS POWER OVER DEATH

Think about a seed that is planted in the ground. It looks like it’s buried, lifeless, but given time, that seed will grow into a beautiful plant. 

What seems like death is actually the start of new life. When Jesus arrived at Lazarus’s tomb, it seemed like the end. Lazarus had been dead for four days. 

But Jesus wasn’t limited by the situation. Jesus called Lazarus out of the grave, proving that not even death could stop Him. This shows that no matter how hopeless our situation may seem, God has the power to bring life where there is darkness and death.

John 11:25-26 
 "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?'"

This verse speaks of eternal life beyond the moment of dying. Our ultimate eternal life with Jesus will cause the pain of this life to pale into insignificance. There are no tears in heaven.

But there is a deeper meaning for us as well. God is creating life in the darkness of our situation. God looks further than the present circumstances. This situation may seem tough, impossible, and we see no way out. But God has a perfect viewpoint. From his perspective he can see the future, how this trial is going to strengthen us, and create life in our darkness. Think about Job. He lost everything, but God prospered him amazingly after Job had learned what he needed from the trial. 

John 5:24 
"Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life."

TRIALS DISPLAY GOD’S GREATNESS

Imagine a dark room. There is no light. When someone lights a candle, the darkness disappears, and the light shines brightly. The darker the room, the more noticeable the light becomes. 

Trials are like darkness, and the light of a candle represents God’s power that shines through, and removes the darkness.

Jesus knew that Lazarus’s death would provide an opportunity for God’s greatness to be revealed. The crowd that gathered to mourn witnessed a powerful miracle, and many believed in Jesus as a result. 

In the same way, our trials can be opportunities for God to display His power in our lives. What seems impossible to us is always possible with God.

John 11:40 
"Jesus said to her, 'Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?'"

2 Corinthians 12:9 
"And He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.'"

Romans 8:28 
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."

God's purpose will be accomplished. We can trust that he will do right by us. He is faithful. And he will cause our situation to ultimately be for our good. Even if we can't see that yet.

SUMMARY

So there are three big lessons in the story of Lazarus.

First, trust God’s timing, even when it feels like He’s delaying.

Second, believe in God’s power over death and hopeless situations.

And third, remember that trials can be opportunities for God’s greatness to be revealed in your life.

CONCLUSION

Remember the story I told, about waiting on God to supply funds for the mortgage payment?

The payment had to be made on Monday. Two days before, on Saturday morning, I went to the mailbox.

There was an envelope there, sent by a friend in Los Angeles. He had sent a check, for four times the amount we needed to pay the mortgage. He had actually mailed the check even before we realized we had a problem.

God was and still is, faithful.

You have troubles, trials and needs. Give it all to God to take care of. God will take care of it.

1 Peter 5:6-7
“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, 7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”

PRAYER
“Dear Lord, thank you for your loving care for us, continually. You knew us even before we were born. The needs of this day are no surprise to you. Thank you for Your perfect timing, even when we don’t understand it. Help us to trust You in the middle of our trials, knowing that You are always at work for our good. Give us faith to believe in Your power over every situation, and let our lives be a testimony of Your greatness. You have promised if we seek you and your kingdom first, you would provide for our needs. Thank you in advance. 

In Jesus name. Amen”

The Christian Journey - Matthew 3:11

The Christian Journey
September 1, 2024
Matthew 3:11

INTRODUCTION

On June 4, 1783 at the market square of a French village of Annonay, not far from Paris, a smoky bonfire on a raised platform was fed by wet straw and old wool rages. Tethered above, straining its lines, was a huge taffeta bag 33 feet in diameter.

In the presence of "a respectable assembly and a great many other people," and accompanied by great cheering, the balloon was cut from its moorings and set free to rise majestically into the noon sky. Six thousand feet into the air it went -- the first public ascent of a balloon, the first step in the history of human flight.

It came to earth several miles away in a field, where it was promptly attacked by pitchfork-waving peasants and torn to pieces as an instrument of evil!   (Today in the Word, July 15, 1993).

Often in life something new or different causes fear. People in general do not like change.

You see it in addiction, the force to stay where you are is almost insurmountable. When an addict recovers from his addiction and reunites with his family, there is a process called homeostasis. 

In short this means that the family continues to see the person as he was rather than as he is now, and expects him to fail. This is a major temptation for the addict to relapse.

Yet, the way forward involves change – change in actions, change in attitudes.

God gave us laws to live by.  They are outlined in the 10 commandments, and summarized by Jesus when he says we should love God with all our heart mind and soul, and love our neighbor as ourselves. When we break these laws, God calls this sin (1 John 3:4). When we look back we see all kinds of sin in our life. This sin separates us from God. 

When we accepted Jesus 30 years ago, our sins were forgiven. But as we go through life, we still sin. Sin still separates from God. It’s because we carry guilt and shame, which damage our relationship with the one who was sinned against. Our position as a Christian is that we are God's children. But our daily sins still need to be faced, confessed and forgiven. Then Jesus takes our sin, guilt and shame upon him, and we are cleansed once more.

We often don’t want to face up to our sins, because that would be an admission of guilt and loss of face. But the way forward starts with facing our sin.

JESUS OUR SAVIOR

Jesus came to save us from our sins.  Whether we are Christian or not. He paid the price that a just God requires for disobedience to God’s higher law

Because of Jesus dying on the cross for us, we can face our sins, deal with them and move along in our journey with God. Jesus makes it possible for us to face our weaknesses, and address them. His will for us is that we move forward, not that we stand still in our spiritual journey

But when we refuse to face our issues, we are stagnant and ignoring God’s intention for our life.

Change is needed.  

It goes against our nature, we are very happy with homeostasis, and staying where we are at. Some of the issues to face, are seemingly small things. But some of our issues are very ingrained. Some seem almost insurmountable, like a Mount Everest in our life

- So how can we deal with these things?

JESUS OUR BAPTIZER

The Israelites in the old Testament had problems. They were whiners and complainers and idolaters. They turned away from God, wanting to do things their own way. But from time to time there would be a revival.

Josiah, for instance.

He cleaned out the temple, he threw away and demolished all the pagan idols. Revival entered the land. But after he died, things went back to the way they were before. His son turned against God and the land relapsed

To make permanent change we need the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus came to send us the Holy Spirit, to give us the power to be obedient to God

Matthew 3:11 

"I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire."

When a person turns to Jesus, they receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38, Ephesians 1:13-14). The Holy Spirit makes us a child of God. Jesus, the Father and the Holy Spirit become a part of our lives, and make their home in us (John 14:16-17, 20, 23). We are now a new creation, we are different and we desire to be obedient to God (2 Cor 5:17). 

Jesus breathed on the disciples on Resurrection Day, and said “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:22). The disciples were now a new creation! Jesus had just said, “As the Father sent me, I am sending you” - John 20:21.

But in the next chapter we read that Peter relapsed to his former life – he went back home to Galilee and restarted his old business!  Can you imagine? 

Peter, the disciples who went with him, and all of us, need power to live our Christian life to fullest.

This power come through being filled with the Holy Spirit. 

Acts 1:8 

"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

Being filled with the Spirit gives us a boldness that cannot be quenched. We receive the Holy Spirit in a way that He fills every part of our life. He is a special gift from God, for us. Being filled with the Holy Spirit empowers us to live in obedience to our God.

When we receive this gift, He gives us a heavenly language to speak. It is a language between God and us, which builds us up spiritually and helps us to love others the way God loves them (1 Cor 14:2, 4, 18, 39-40). It is a prayer language between us and God, which enables us to pray according to God’s will (Rom 8:26-27).

This may be something new for us, or it may not. Don’t be afraid of something new, God only gives us good gifts (Luke 11:9-13). Even if we have been filled with the Spirit before, we need to be filled continually (Ephesians 5:18). The experiences of life deplete the spiritual resources the Holy Spirit once gave us. We need God’s touch again. Continually.

CONCLUSION

The Christian’s journey marches forward.

Change is possible, and not to be feared.

It was made possible by Jesus coming as our Savior, and as our Baptizer with the Holy Spirit.

Today we will open up the altar for prayer.

If you want to accept Jesus for the first time, if you want to be filled with the Holy Spirit, if you want to be refilled with the Holy Spirit, or if you would like prayer for any other reason, today is the day the Lord has made for you!

Walking on Water - Matthew 14:22-23

Walking on Water

Matthew 14:22-33

August 25, 2024

BIBLE READING

Matthew 14:22-33
“Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. 23 And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. 24 But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary. 25 Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. 26 And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”

28 And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.”29 So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. 30 But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!”

31 And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” 32 And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 33 Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, “Truly You are the Son of God.”

INTRODUCTION

Have you ever walked on water? 

Imagine you’re on a boat in the middle of a big lake. Suddenly, a storm hits. The wind howls, the waves crash, and you’re scared. 

Out of nowhere, you see someone walking towards you on the water. It’s Jesus, and He’s coming to help you. This is exactly what happened to the disciples one stormy night.

The story of Jesus walking on water is more than a miracle. This is a lesson about faith. The disciples were caught in a storm, they were scared and uncertain. But Jesus came to them, walking on the water, showing them—and us—that He is always with us, even in the middle of life’s storms.

Today, we will explore what this passage teaches us about how to deal with the storms of life.

JESUS IS ALWAYS WITH US IN THE STORM

We had a dog, a Labrador called Cisco. Cisco was part of the family.

Whenever there was a thunderstorm, Cisco would run to us. We would hold him, wrap him in a blanket and gradually his trembling would subside. He was safe, with us. The storm would still be there, but he was no longer afraid because he knows he’s not alone.

Just like Cisco, we can feel safe in the middle of life’s storms because Jesus is with us. Even when the wind is strong and the waves are high, Jesus is right there, ready to help us.

Isaiah 41:10 

"Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

Psalm 23:4  

"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me."

Psalm 139:7-12 

“Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? 8 If I ascend into heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. 9 If I take the wings of the morning, And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, 10  Even there Your hand shall lead me, And Your right hand shall hold me. 11 If I say, “Surely the darkness shall fall on me,” Even the night shall be light about me; 12 Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You, But the night shines as the day; The darkness and the light are both alike to You.”

Whatever our situation, God is with us!

So no matter what is going on, whatever our personal trial at this moment, God knows and God is with us in that trial. We have assurance that he will help us to walk on the water, he will help us get to our destination. Just like he did for Peter.

Jesus is in the storm with us.

KEEP YOUR EYES ON JESUS, NOT ON THE STORM

Think of a tightrope walker, balancing high above the ground. Below is nothing but air, and one misstep could mean a fall. If he looks down, he could fall. The tightrope walker keeps moving forward, focusing on the goal ahead, not the fear below.

Peter stepped out of the boat and began to walk on water towards Jesus. But when he took his eyes off Jesus and focused on the wind and waves, he began to sink. This teaches us to keep our focus on Jesus, not on the problems around us.

This is not easy to do, though. 
It is not easy to discipline our thoughts.

Deuteronomy 20:3 

“And he shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel: Today you are on the verge of battle with your enemies. Do not let your heart faint, do not be afraid, and do not tremble or be terrified because of them”

Hebrews 12:1-2 

"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

With our eyes on Jesus, we can make it through the storm.

IT TAKES FAITH TO WALK ON THE WATER

Faith is trusting that something promised, is happening, even when we do not yet see it.

Like when we walk along a mountain path in the fog. We can see the path at our feet, but we cannot see ahead of us. We take each step in faith, believing God will direct our steps. We pray in faith, believing that God will answer.

This is the faith required to walk on the water. Knowing that God will hear and answer, and respond.

Hebrews 11:1 

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

Matthew 8:26 

“But He said to them, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?” Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.”

Proverbs 3:5-6 

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6  In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.”

Mark 11:22-24 

“So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.”

Faith is important. If we want to dominate our circumstances, we need faith in Jesus.

TRUSTING JESUS GIVES US PEACE IN THE STORM

When Jesus got into the boat, the wind stopped, and there was peace. 

Trusting Jesus brings peace, even in the middle of life’s biggest storms. 
We might not be able to calm the storm ourselves, but Jesus can.
And with him beside us, we are safe.

Matthew 14:32 

"And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased."

Philippians 4:6-7 

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

John 14:27  

"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

Philippians 4:13  

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

CONCLUSION

Whatever our situation, Jesus is always with us. Even in the middle of the storm. We keep our eyes on Jesus, not on the problems around us. It takes faith in Jesus to walk on the water. Whatever our storm may be. Trusting Jesus brings peace, no matter how scary the situation.

Remember Cisco? Cisco found peace in the storm, by being with us.

In the same way, we experience peace when we trust Jesus. No matter how strong the storm, Jesus is with us. Let’s keep our eyes on Him and trust that He will bring us peace, no matter what we face.

PRAYER

“Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for being our example of the Christian life. We know this life is temporary, but life with you is eternal. Help us please to keep our eyes fixed on you, the author and finisher of our faith. Thank you that you are faithful, no matter what our circumstances may be. And that you answer our prayers.
In Jesus name. Amen.”

Love Wins! - 1 Cor 13

Title: Love Wins!
Verse: 1 Corinthians 13
Date: August 18, 2024

BIBLE READING

1 Corinthians 13:1-13
"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. 

4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part. 

10 But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. 13 And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

INTRODUCTION

I grew up in an abusive home. As a result, I did not have a lot of confidence. I ended up working for a publishing company in the United States. My supervisor was an encourager. He cared about me. He encouraged me and mentored me.
He developed skills in me. Skills I still use today, even right now as I write this sermon. Roger showed some of the qualities of love. That’s the kind of person he was. Those actions had a big impact on me. They helped to form me into the person I am today. 

This may seem like a little thing. But little things sometimes mean a lot. They can have a big impact.

Today we are going to look at how God describes love. 

Love is not just a quality, but an action. Paul describes love in 1 Corinthians 13. Love is more than a feeling—it’s the way we need to live our lives every day. Let’s see how God describes love and how we can show it to others.

LOVE IS PATIENT AND KIND

Imagine a school where everyone is in a hurry, and no one takes the time to help anyone else. One day, a new student, who didn’t know anyone and was having a hard time fitting in, dropped all his books in the hallway. Everyone walked by, too busy to help—except for one girl who stopped, smiled, and helped him pick everything up. That small act of kindness made a big difference in the new student’s day.

Love is patient and kind. It means being willing to wait and not get angry when things don’t go our way. It means helping others, even when it’s not convenient. 
God’s love is like that, and He wants us to show that kind of love to others.

1 Corinthians 13:4 
"Love suffers long and is kind."

Ephesians 4:32 
"And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you."

Colossians 3:12 
"Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering."

Patience and kindness are qualities God shows to us, continually. We fall down so many times in the way we conduct our life. We often let God down by our attitudes and actions toward others. But God encourages us to just get back up again and do better. He forgives us, cleans us up, and encourages us.

Proverbs 24:16 
"For a just man falls seven times, and rises up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief."

LOVE IS UNSELFISH

In a small town, Robert was known for his selfless nature. One winter, a severe snowstorm hit, and an elderly widow, Mrs. Johnson, ran out of firewood. Though Robert had just enough for his own family, he couldn’t ignore her need. Early the next morning, Robert bundled up and walked through the deep snow to Mrs. Johnson’s house, bringing half of his firewood. When she saw him, she asked, “What about your family?” “We’ll manage,” Robert replied with a smile. “You need to stay warm.” Though Robert’s family had to ration their firewood, they got through the storm, Thankful they had been able to help someone in need. When the town heard of Robert’s act, they came together to provide his family with more firewood, ensuring they stayed warm for the rest of the winter.

Love is not selfish. Love doesn’t think only about what’s best for us but considers what’s best for others. Jesus showed us this kind of love by giving His life for us. 
He wants us to follow His example by putting others before ourselves.

1 Corinthians 13:5 
"Love does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil."

Philippians 2:3-4 
"Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others."

John 15:13 
"Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends."

LOVE NEVER GIVES UP

A young couple Ahmed and Amina lived in a small village. Ahmed was a farmer and Amina took care of the home. They faced big challenges. They were deeply in love and dreamed of a better future, but their lives were marked by poverty and frequent hardships. One winter a severe flood hit their village, destroying their crops and home. Ahmed lost his source of income, and they were left with nothing. Despite the dire situation, Amina and Ahmed supported each other with unwavering love and hope.

Each night, as the floodwaters receded, Amina and Ahmed would walk through the village, offering whatever small help they could to their neighbors. They would share their meager supplies and comfort those who had lost everything. Months passed, and rebuilding was slow. Many villagers had given up hope, but Amina and Ahmed continued their efforts. They repaired their home with the little they could salvage, and Ahmed began planting new crops with whatever seeds he could find.
Their love for each other and their commitment to their community never wavered.

Slowly, their efforts began to pay off. The crops started to grow, and the village began to rebuild. Through their resilience and selflessness, Amina and Ahmed became a beacon of hope for others. In time, their farm flourished again, and their village regained its strength. Amina and Ahmed’s love had not only survived but had inspired their entire community to persevere.

Love never gives up. It keeps going, even when things are tough. God’s love for us is like that—it’s strong and never-ending. He wants us to love others with that same determination and faithfulness.

1 Corinthians 13:7 
"Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."

Galatians 6:9 
"And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart."

1 Peter 4:8 
"And above all things have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins."

SUMMARY

So, in summary, first of all, love is patient and kind. We can apply this wherever we go. Because God has given us his love we are carriers of God’s love.

Romans 5:5
"Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us."

We are able to be patient, no matter what the provocation. Because God has been patient with us. We can be kind as well. God is kind both to Christians and those who are not yet Christians. He is patient with them as with us. He causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.

Matthew 5:44-45
“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.”

We can be unselfish. Sometimes our poverty can make us so concerned about ourselves, that we forget to be generous to those around us. But God blesses generosity.

Proverbs 22:9
"He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor."

Finally, love never gives up. We love our children no matter how far away they may have drifted. We never give up on loving them.

CONCLUSION

There was a woman and her teenage daughter, who lived in a large city, in a small apartment. The daughter ran away from home, wanting to see what life in the big city was like. The mother was distraught, she knew how hard and dangerous life could be for her daughter.

She went to the store and got an envelope full of pictures of the daughter. Then she went to the big city and one by one, went to each of the public restrooms. In each restroom, on the mirror, she taped a picture of her daughter.

One day the daughter visited one of these restrooms, and noticed her picture on the mirror. She took it down, and turned it over. 

On the back, she read “No matter where you are. No matter what you have done. No matter what has happened in your life. Please come home.”

This is what God says to each of  us. “I love you. I have loved you since even before you were born. No matter what your life is like, please come home. I will give you rest for your soul.”

PRAYER

Let us pray:

“Dear Lord God, thank you for your amazing love for us. Thank you that you gave your love inside us. Please forgive us for our sins and draw us back into relationship with you. As you have loved us, help us to love others with that same patient, kind, generous and persistent love, with which you love us.
In Jesus name, Amen.”