Sermon Reflections from Jesus is Here | Julio Barros | April 14, 2024
It was a pleasure to welcome Pastor Julio to the pulpit today as he and his congregation had worked alongside us in packing meals for Rise Against Hunger. It was a glorious time of serving together in spite of the fact that there was a language barrier. It was a glimpse of heaven as we know all believing peoples will be there on day worshiping the Lord together. The text of Pastor Julio’s sermon was Luke 18 and the parable of the unbelieving judge who was constantly bombarded by the widow coming to him seeking justice. She was persistent until the judge finally relented and sought justice for her. Her persistence was likened to our prayers and our need to be persistent in prayer. God is listening and desires to know our hearts. That which one prays for repeatedly is truly on their heart and matters to them. God knows this and honors persistence. Pastor Julio spoke on the importance of prayer in various ways. First, he mentioned that prayer has a physical effect on the one who prays. This close time with God makes one happier and even will cause one to smile. Taking time to pray daily will make a difference in your life as it is what the Bible would consider good medicine. Proverbs 17:22 “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Spending time with God will change your heart and provide an attitude adjustment for better living. Next, Pastor mentioned the spiritual effects of having a prayer life. When you pray you build something around you that adds protection and hope for your family and wisdom for daily living. It is a time when you tap into the wisdom of God and let it flow into you. Prayer is not just mindless repetition but communication and relationship building with God himself. How do you build friendships with others? You do it by spending quality time with them, sharing your heart and working together. God allows us to spend quality time with Him, share our hearts and serve Him with others to strengthen our relationship with Him. Jesus called himself our friend in John 15:14 “You are my friends if you do what I command.” Our question to ourselves should be, how do I know what God commands of me? Through His Word He reveals himself to us, through faith in Jesus and the indwelling of His Holy Spirit we can learn of God’s ways and through prayer God speaks to us. Being the friend of Almighty God is an awesome thing. Now to the actual praying and the need to be persistent like the widow in the parable. God will answer prayer but in His time. Isaiah 55:9 “ “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” We do not know the times of life, the interactions of relationships and the whys and why nots of all things like God does. So His answers are sometimes, “Yes”, sometimes “No” and sometimes “Wait”. We must keep praying and trust in God’s timing and sovereignty. We must always remember that God gave man free will and what God desires may not come to pass if the person is unrepentant and rejects God. Pray diligently that the Holy Spirit will be able to soften your loved ones hearts towards God and that they will come to know Jesus. I lean on 2 Peter 3:9 “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” God desires that all come to know Him- so keep on praying. Pastor Julio closed with this thought, “May our daily life be an act of prayer.” That would truly bring a change of heart to us both physically and spiritually. Praise God! Linda MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass Sermon Reflections based on from Navigating Launchpad Temptations | Alex Hardt | January 21, 2024
BETRAYAL, LIES and DECEIT are all elements in the continuing story of Joseph this week. For the first time we see Joseph as a young man who lives a life of integrity in the midst of evil doers. Joseph is without family, alone in a foreign country and yet he survives well as he continues to follow God and depend upon Him. Joseph does not succumb to the lower moral conduct of the pagan society but clings to God’s rules of conduct. God hon- ored Joseph’s integrity with blessings. God blessed Joseph with His favor. Genesis 39:3 “the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did,” God blessed Potiphar through Joseph, 5 “The blessing of the Lord was on everything Potiphar had, both in the house and in the field.” This is a biblical principle we can count on today. God blesses those who follow and obey Him. God blesses others through us because of our faithfulness. Have you seen this at work in your own life? Think about how God has blessed you and think about how others have been blessed because of this. An example of this in my own life is when God blessed me with the books I have written. I was blessed by the truths I uncovered, app- lied to my life and the process of publishing that stretched my faith. In turn, those who have read and studied by books have been blessed as they have applied God’s word to their lives and told me about it. The blessings came to them and back to me! Praise God! How can and do you confront temptations? Joseph was again betrayed by Potiphar’s wife when she lied about Joseph’s actions. She wanted what she wanted and desired he be punished because he would not give into her demands. Have you know people who demanded their own way and when they do not get it seek any by any means possible to get their way? In today’s language Joseph first said NO! Actually he did that repeatedly as she confronted him daily. When that did not succeed, she sought to punish him for avoiding her. Joseph’s running away, avoiding the situation by getting out of there, Potiphar’s wife turned to her advantage. It seemed that Joseph had lost again but God! When he was put in prison, God met him there. 20 “But while Joseph was there in the prison, 21 the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.” God had his back and saw to it that Joseph was again put in a position to shine for Him. Our memory verse Gen 50:20 gives God’s principle of care for those He loves. “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” Joseph’s brothers, Potiphar’s wife and Potiphar all intended to harm Joseph, but God! Joseph’s faith in God allowed him to navigate the troubled situations of his life. The betraying brothers, the slave traders, Potiphar and his wife had all presented Joseph with temptations, but God knew how to guide Him through the troubling trials. As Joseph depended upon God, He was given a pathway and guided so that he could withstand the adversities of His life. How about you? Are you finding God to be the answer? Is he showing you the way to navigate your troubling situations? Pray and lean into Him. He keeps His promises and will guide you. ere are a couple of promises to cling to: Psalm 25:9 “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. Isaiah 58:11 “The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” Linda MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections based on Dream Higher | Alex Hardt | December 31, 2023
Happy New Year!?! I'm wondering if you are like me and at some point, you thought why even bother making plans, or doing a new years resolution, or looking to the future? Everything around me looks dismal, broken, and new years resolutions never work anyway. What I am going through won't change and anything I do won't make a difference. It will be the same today, tomorrow, and the next day. In a world often shadowed by uncertainties and limitations, the scriptures in Isaiah, Revelation, and Philippians shine forth as beacons of hope, inviting us to dream higher and embrace a future anchored in God's promises. These passages, although diverse, weave together a profound narrative that resonates with the core essence of faith—trusting in God's redemptive plan, pursuing spiritual maturity, and adopting a forward-looking perspective. Our past and our present doesn't define our future. In fact, the only thing that holds weight on our future is God. Isaiah 43:1-13: Isaiah's words echo through the ages, offering assurance in times of tribulation. As the Israelites faced exile and uncertainty, God reassured them of His abiding presence. His promise of redemption isn't just a distant hope but a present reality—a reminder that the Creator of the world is actively working on behalf of His people. If you thought you were alone in this world, then you would be wrong. We have a God who is always with you and always for you, working on your behalf for Good. Revelation 21:1-8: John's apocalyptic vision paints a picture of a new heaven and earth. It's a breathtaking glimpse of a future where pain, sorrow, and suffering cease to exist. This vision isn't merely an allegory but a tangible promise of God's ultimate restoration. Just because we have failures, brokenness, pain, suffering, death now doesn't mean that's how it will always be. God paints a future where every tear is wiped away and where death no longer exists. Philippians 3:12-14: Paul's words exhort believers toward spiritual maturity. He encourages a relentless pursuit of Christlikeness, urging us not to dwell on past successes or failures but to press on toward the upward call of God—a call that beckons us toward a higher purpose and a deeper communion with Christ. We can hold on to the past all we want but it won't change the future. If we dwell in the past and the present then we will never move toward the future that God has for us. God has something much greater for us, but we have to let go of our fears and failures. We have to surrender today and yesterday, to discover tomorrow. Discussion Questions: How do you navigate between living in the reality of present circumstances and holding onto the hope of God's promises for the future? In what ways can we encourage one another to pursue Jesus? What steps can we take to cultivate a forward-looking perspective amidst life's challenges and uncertainties? Practical Application: Let's engage in a practice of daily reflection and prayer. Allocate time each day to meditate on a specific promise from Scripture. Journal about how that promise speaks to your current situation and future hopes. Share these reflections with a trusted friend or within a faith community to encourage one another in holding onto God's promises amidst life's ebb and flow. As we journey in faith, may we hold firm to these timeless truths, envisioning and pursuing a future anchored in God's unwavering hope. Embracing a future of hope involves actively participating in God's redemptive narrative, seeking spiritual maturity, and fixing our gaze on the promises that transcend our present circumstances. Blessings, Pastor Alex MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from Embracing Peace | Alex Hardt | December 10, 2023
I love the Advent season and marvel each year at the symbolism in the candles on the simple Advent Wreath. This Sunday’s candle is the Bethlehem Candle and is known as the candle representing the peace that is to be found through the coming Christ child. Pastor Alex points us to Isaiah 40:1-5. The peace that Christ brings into the world is promised to us in the Old Testament. We are promised in verse 5 “And the glory of the Lord will be revealed.” Christ came and brought peace, love, restoration, forgiveness and hope. The questions are: Are you prepared to access this peace and if you find it what will you do with it? How can you access the peace of God? Jesus tells us in John 16:33 “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” Here specifically we are told that the source of peace is Jesus. He generates the peace we feel in our lives. No Jesus=No peace. Paul adds to this in Romans 5:1 “Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Philippians 4:7 “Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” The peace we receive in Jesus is available through faith in Jesus because of what Christ did for us on the cross. Jesus told us in John 14:27 that His peace is a gift to us for our peace of mind and heart! “I am leaving you with a gift--peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid. What a wonderful gift. The peace Jesus give though faith is limitless. It can be accessed at any time and in in any place. Since He is always with you, you can tap into this peace whenever you need it. Are you to busy or preoccupied with life to worry about His peace? Do you then let the stresses and worries of your daily life and interactions get the best of you and overwhelm you? Remember you can access God’s peace anyplace or time. Don’t let the world overcome you and drag you down. Take heart in Jesus’ peace and ask Him for it. What will you do with God’s peace given as a gift through faith? Paul mentioned in Philippians 4:7 above that . His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” We are to use His peace to keep our minds and hearts guarded from the world’s pressures so we can live for Jesus. Jesus added in John 14:27 “So don’t be troubled or afraid.” His peace is to keep our fears and worries away from our lives so we can focus on Him and be about doing His work in the world. Paul says in Romans 12:18 “Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” God’s peace should be used to help us live rightly with others reflecting God in our lives. Hebrews 12:14 puts it this way “Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord.” Being a Christian involves living at peace within ourselves and in community with others. His peace can be accessed 24/7 so it can and does help us live, cope, rejoice and flourish in the world in which we live. No Peace=worry, frustration, hopelessness, restlessness, just plain unhappiness. Peace with Jesus = hope, ability to cope with frustration, worries, restlessness, and unhappiness Jesus is the answer as in Him alone can Peace be found. Claim it in your life through faith in Jesus and then use it liberally throughout the day! Linda Linda MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from Awaiting Hope | Alex Hardt | December 3, 2023
What does hope mean to you? Is it in some person, thing or event? Or is it the biblical hope Paul speaks of in Romans 5:3-5 “ Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” The hope Paul describes comes from God and comes with persevering in Him. The Psalms have much to say about hope. Psalm 25:5 Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” 33:20 “We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield.” 52:9 “For what you have done I will always praise you in the presence of your faithful people. And I will hope in your name, for your name is good.” David saw God as the source of His hope no matter what the circumstances. Pastor Alex spoke about the darkness that surrounds us just like it surrounded Paul, David and Mary. Each one of them looked to God as the source of their hope. Mary was in a difficult position with an unplanned pregnancy by a young unwed mother. However, Mary’s focus on God and His provision for her far outweighs the darkness and obstacles she faced. God in His mercy sent an angel to speak to Joseph so he was told of the coming child. He was told to not be afraid to marry his betrothed Mary and that much blessing would come to him through this expected child. Mary’s response to the angel’s message was one filled with questions about how she could be with child, but her questions were not filled with doubt. She knew the power of God and believed in Him. She knew of the prophets, the Messiah that was to come, the miracles God had performed in her nation’s history and the power of God over life and death. Her response in Luke 1:38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” and later in her song known as the Magnificat shows her humility and the acknowledgement of God’s power at work in her. Luke 1:46-49 “And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me-- holy is his name. Mary allowed her hope in God, His power, might, love and knowledge of His compassion to sustain her through the difficult times ahead. She had many obstacles to overcome but God was with her. I’ll ask again, Where do you place your hope? Can you access the hope you have in God through your past experiences? Paul had many harrowing experiences as he walked with Jesus. 2 Corinthians 11:24-26 “Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, 26 I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers.” Even in all this Paul’s testimony remained strong as he testified in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 “9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10 That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.’ Like Mary’s faith in God, Paul’s personal knowledge of Christ and faith brought him through very tough times. David likewise faced great difficulties in his life and clung to his love and knowledge of God. His hope was placed in God as he fought battles, faced giants, was persecuted, hunted by Saul and plagued with family difficulties. As the Psalms attest David knew God as his shield, guide, teacher, savior and hope. God promises to be with us in every circumstance. I love Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” All of us have thems in our lives. Our giants, persecutors, hardships and family difficulties are different but we can claim God’s protection as we belong to Him. We can trust Him like Mary, Paul and David. They knew He would never leave them or forsake them! He will not abandon you either. God is our hope in the midst of darkness, He is our LIGHT! Linda MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from Favoritism Forbidden | Alex Hardt | July 9, 2023
James 2 is a very practical chapter for the church and how it is to operate. It also speaks to each believer about their own personal walk and commitment to Christ and His kingdom. Damon began with some personal examples of where he has seen favoritism in the form of snobbery within the church that caused him to reevaluate and question his own thoughts and actions. It was a good reminder how one action builds upon another and events can spiral away if we are not diligent. God calls us to look carefully at our actions and listen to our own words. Are they words and deeds that will bring Him glory? Are they edifying to Him and others? James calls favoritism sin, 2:8-9 “If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself, you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.” Where are you allowing Satan to lead you to sin? Is it your arrogance- thinking you are better than other believers, more devoted, more generous? Or is it your pride –thinking your way of doing things is better or you always get the right outcome? Satan is the great deceiver and we must always be aware and on guard. We need to constantly reassess and see if we are showing others Christ in and through our actions. John 13:34-35 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Damon challenged us to align ourselves with scripture and focus on how we are acting and reacting with others. We are to constantly ask, are others seeing the love of Christ through me? James 2 is not all about how we act impartially towards all believers and unbelievers so they will see Christ but he also speaks about how our faith should be reflected in our deeds. Deeds for unbelievers stand alone as good or bad but deeds for the believer are to be a reflection of Christ within us. We cannot count on good deeds to gain us credibility with the world and His kingdom. They must be accompanied or motivated by our faith in Christ. The world’s opinion of our ‘good’ deeds should not matter to the believer. The only opinion that matters is God’s. He wants to know why you did what you did. God wants actions of the heart. Our heart for Him is to be our motivation. We do what we do because of our love for Him! When someone looks at our deeds they need to see both the good deed and the faith that motivated it. However, since people do not always perceive things correctly we should be relieved that God sees, God knows and God sees and knows what is in our hearts. He knows our true motivations. His opinion is the only one that matters! When I was working on memorizing James, I gave considerable thought to James 2:13-14. I struggled to make sense over “mercy triumphs over judgement”. Here are these verses in the New Living Translation and then in the Message. As you read and study James 2 this week, I pray they will be helpful. The New Living Translation “So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by the law that sets you free. 13 There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.” The Message 12-13 Talk and act like a person expecting to be judged by the Rule that sets us free. For if you refuse to act kindly, you can hardly expect to be treated kindly. Kind mercy wins over harsh judgment every time. Let the lessons of James 2 speak to your heart this week. Will you be more open and less judgmental? Will your love and good deeds be a reflection of your faith? Will you seek to treat others with godly mercy knowing you are going to be totally provided for by God’s grace? Linda SERMON LINK Click Here to View the Sermon Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from A Future For The Faithful | Alex Hardt | March 26, 2023
Considering our world today, Pastor Alex’s sermon topic was exactly what I needed. Our world is in turmoil and chaos following a worldwide pandemic, natural disasters, wars, famine, economic downturns, etc. It is hard to watch the news without being depressed. However, there is light for those of us who believe in Jesus, our Sovereign, and Omniscient God. As we look to the words of Isaiah the prophet again this week, we see hope and a future guaranteed by God. What can make this possible? God and God alone is able to reform and transform our lives and world. Isaiah 66:1-2a shows God’s perspective on our world. “Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Where is the house you will build for me? Where will my resting place be? 2 Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?” declares the Lord. God reminds us that He alone is creator and brought our world into being by His Word. I know that God did not desire the world to be filled with sin and corruption. Man brought about those things through his sinful nature and disobedience towards God. How can things be turned around? Look into God’s Word for the answer. Isaiah 66:2b shows us “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.” To be transformed by God one must be willing and humble yourself before Him, have genuine sorrow for you sins and look to His Word for guidance. Jesus is the living Word of God- look to Him. The Bible is the written Word of God-open it and read for guidance and restoration. God will give us what we need if we are willing and to look to Him. Above all God desires our hearts and wants to receive us with open arms if we turn to Him. What does God see for you and me? We can’t seem to see beyond tomorrow let alone next year? God is omniscient and He knows the beginning from the end. When the Israelites were languishing in captivity in Babylon, God sent this message though Jeremiah the prophet. Jeremiah 29:10-12 “This is what the Lord says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place. 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.” His message gave them hope that their time of captivity was not unending. We can find hope in that too, as trial and tribulations are time limited. They will not go on forever! Praise God! Further, God had great plans for them, and He has great plans and a purpose for you and me. They are not plans to hurt us or bring us grief but to encourage us and bring us hope. God sees a future that we can’t envision. I am so grateful for this truth. Lastly, God ends the book of Isaiah with hope as He shares a bit of what He has planned for us. Isaiah 66:22-25 “As the new heavens and the new earth that I make will endure before me,” declares the Lord, “so will your name and descendants endure. 23 From one New Moon to another and from one Sabbath to another, all mankind will come and bow down before me,” says the Lord. 24 “And they will go out and look on the dead bodies of those who rebelled against me; the worms that eat them will not die, the fire that burns them will not be quenched, and they will be loathsome to all mankind.” God promises a new place, a new heaven and new earth, which will be enduring. He also lets us see what will become of those who do not turn to Him. That is a grim sight that none of us want for our loved ones. Since God provides us with a Hope that is enduring and future that is secure, why not share that ASAP with those who do not know Him. None of us wants the alternative reality for those who do not know Him. Who can you tell today that, Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 or John 11:25-26 “Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” Looking to the future we see the truth in the fact that our HOPE is in surrendering to the future God has envisioned for us. He knows. He sees ahead. He can and will guide us. Tell others so they can be with us too. Linda SERMON LINK Click Here to View the Sermon Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from A Faithful Tomorrow | Damon Hopkins | March 19, 2023
We had the privilege of hearing from Damon Hopkins again this Sunday. His text was from Isaiah Chapters 36 and 37. This is a very rich passage that has much to teach us in 2023. Damon pointed out that King Hezekiah was remembered for his faithfulness to God. What a wonderful legacy that I know each one of us would love for our lives. 2 Kings referred to King Hezekiah 18:3 “And he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, according to all that David his father had done. And 18:5 “He trusted in the Lord, the God of Israel, so that there was none like him among all the kings of Judah after him, nor among those who were before him.” King Hezekiah chose to believe God when he was in a situation that was ‘against all odds’. He saw no physical way he could defeat the king of Assyria, Sennacherib. The Assyrian army was brutal and overpowering. They had marched through northern Israel and taken them captive. They had conquered lands and people around Judah. Sennacherib had his eyes on Judah and was marching towards Jerusalem. He sent a messenger to ‘scare’ King Hezekiah into submission. The messenger announce publically that they were doomed and that their God would not and could not save them from the mighty Assyrians. King Hezekiah sent word to the prophet Isaiah asking him to inquire of the Lord. Isaiah brought this message of hope from the Lord, Isaiah 37:6-7 “Isaiah said to them, “Say to your master, ‘Thus says the Lord: Do not be afraid because of the words that you have heard, with which the young men of the king of Assyria have reviled me. 7 Behold, I will put a spirit in him, so that he shall hear a rumor and return to his own land, and I will make him fall by the sword in his own land.’” I’m sure Hezekiah was encouraged by this news. Then, Sennacherib heard that Cush was going to come to Judah’s aid and join the fight. He sent a letter to King Hezekiah defaming the power and might of God. Isaiah 37:10 ““Thus shall you speak to Hezekiah king of Judah: ‘Do not let your God in whom you trust deceive you by promising that Jerusalem will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria.” When Hezekiah got the letter he made a bold choice. He went to the temple and laid the letter before God and prayed: 37:16-20 “O Lord of hosts, God of Israel, enthroned above the cherubim, you are the God, you alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; you have made heaven and earth. 17 Incline your ear, O Lord, and hear; open your eyes, O Lord, and see; and hear all the words of Sennacherib, which he has sent to mock the living God. 18 Truly, O Lord, the kings of Assyria have laid waste all the nations and their lands, 19 and have cast their gods into the fire. For they were no gods, but the work of men's hands, wood and stone. Therefore they were destroyed. 20 So now, O Lord our God, save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you alone are the Lord.” What does King Hezekiah’s prayer say about Hezekiah’s faith? He knew whom to trust. He knew that Sennacherib was just a man but God was God and sovereign over all people, place, times and events. He knew that God was bigger than his greatest fears. He knew that God would defend His name. He knew where he should place his trust He prayed so that he could move forward. At present he was blocked in by Sennacherib but that was only temporary as God was greater than this earthly king and would deliver them just like Isaiah had told him. He chose to trust God when things got difficult. What about you? Do you choose to trust God to provide, rescue and deliver you day by day? Hezekiah’s hope was propelled forward though prayer. How do you face difficulties? Do you chose to go it alone or turn to God and ask Him for help? Hezekiah followed the advice James gives in James 1:5-6 “ If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. James 4:2b-3 You do not have, because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.” King Hezekiah knew that God had the wisdom and power to save them so He asked in faith, not doubting. He also knew He needed to humble himself and ask God for help. I pray you will take some time this week and read Isaiah 36 and 37. Let King Hezekiah’s experiences speak to you as you consider how you can incorporate prayer into your life in a new and vibrant way. Prayer brings results- ask Hezekiah or someone at Crossroads. God answers prayer! Linda SERMON LINK ISAIAH: A VISION FOR THE FUTURE | A Faithful Tomorrow Click Here to View the Sermon Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from Unmatched Strength | Alex Hardt | March 12, 2023
Pastor Alex used one of my favorite scriptures as the text of his sermon this Sunday. Isaiah 40: 27-31 are beloved verses as they give hope in the midst of our troubled, stress-filled lives. It gives us perspective on the world and our troubles and leads us towards and attitude of HOPE! I like to start with verses 25-26 “To whom will you compare me? Or who is my equal?” says the Holy One. 26 Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing.” We are to be reminded that no one or nothing is greater than God. Who could even be compared to Him? He is the Holy One and Creator of all the heavens and the earth. All that is was made is by His hands and at His Word. Isaiah 40:27 follows with another question. Why do you complain, Jacob? Why do you say, Israel, “My way is hidden from the Lord; my cause is disregarded by my God”? Do we adopt this same attitude when we approach God? Do we try to chastise God because He has not revealed everything to us? Do we often cry, Why, Lord? Isaiah answers these questions with God’s character in verse 28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.” Isaiah says, haven’t you heard that God is the Creator and source of all strength? You want strength- Look to the Lord. Don’t spend your time questioning God? He is God and He will let us know what we need to know. We need to have some perspective and realize the truth of Isaiah 55:8-9 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. 9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” God is infinite and his ways are perfect. He will do as He pleases, but God is and can be the source of our strength. When we turn to Him, He will give us strength. Worshipping God lead us to the source of all strength. Isaiah continues in verse 29-30. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. 30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; Have you ever prayed and asked God for strength? I’m sure you have as I know I have on multiple occasions. Why is that? When we realize that our present circumstances are beyond our physical or emotional strength, we know we can turn to God for help. Claim Hebrew 4:16 “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” and Hebrews 13:6 “So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Our response to weariness is answered when we stretch out to God and seek His strength. Lastly, we come to verse 31 “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. This is a verse with a promise! If we will put our hope, faith, trust in the Lord He promises to renew us and cause us to soar! He is the one with everlasting strength, the eternal one upon whom we can rely. Does our hope in the Lord cause us to wait upon Him? Yes, it does, but waiting will lead to greater faith and renewed strength. I love David’s resolve in Psalm 27:13-14 “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. 14 Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord”. May this be our resolve as well that we will wait with confident Hope in the Lord. His ways are perfect and His timing never ceases to amaze me! Wait in hope as God is faithful. Lamentations 3:21-23 “But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: 22 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Our hope is found in God’s faithfulness, so wait for Him. Linda SERMON LINK ISAIAH: A VISION FOR THE FUTURE | Unmatched Strength Click Here to View the Sermon Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from Hope In Pursuing A Holy God | Alex Hardt | March 5, 2023
A new month and a new theme to receive a new perspective from God about His Holiness and our great sinfulness. Isaiah is the perfect place to begin as it is often referred to as the Gospel of the Old Testament. Isaiah has many words of wisdom and encouragement for us today as well as prophesies that increase our faith as we see their fulfilment in the New Testament through Jesus the Messiah. Alex started us off with Isaiah’s vision of the throne room of God and his encounter with God Almighty. We see that God is Alive and desired to communicate with Isaiah. God had a mission for him but wanted him willing. We are created with free will and just like Isaiah God has a purpose and mission for us but will not order us to do His will. As we looked at the scripture we see why Isaiah was willing to go and do what the Lord asked. When he first saw the throne room, the seraphim and heard their proclamations of the holiness of God, he was overcome with the realization of his own sin. “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.” Isaiah 6:5 The seraphim heard his distress and immediately came to him with cleansing fire in a coal. The touching of the fire of God provided cleansing and forgiveness of sin for Isaiah. We can experience that same cleansing and forgiven when we confront and confess our sins to Jesus. 1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Once Isaiah was clean he was able to hear and speak to God. Isaiah 6:8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” What is your response to God when He presents you with a task? Are you willing to go like Isaiah or do you hedge and say “I’ll think about it” or “maybe later would be better?” God in His aliveness spoke to Isaiah and we can be assured that He can and will do the same for us. Are you willing to listen? Isaiah was humbled by the appearance of the throne room and the presence of Almighty God. He did not treat it lightly but realized what a privilege it was to be in God’s presence. He knew he was sinful and became painfully aware of that leading to His cleansing. How would you response to the earsplitting sound of the seraphim saying, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” 4 At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook, and the temple was filled with smoke? Would you humble yourself and surrender to God’s will like Isaiah. You might ask, what is it you want Lord? If you can’t think of something specific look at what God says in Micah 6:8 “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Or perhaps Jesus’ words came to your mind from Luke 10:27 He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.” Or 1 John 2:17 “The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” God tells us in His Word what He desires of us. Are you willing? Lastly, think about the holiness of God. Alex defined holy as ‘set apart from the world.’ God is high and lifted up. He is set apart from His creation. Our English word “holy” is from the same root word as “whole.” God is whole- perfect in goodness and righteousness. No one is like God. Even God’s holy angels tremble in reverent worship before Him. God sets apart His children for Himself and commands us to be holy as He is holy. Being holy makes you whole, what God intends you to be. Isaiah wanted to be aligned with God and His holiness. He replied to God, “Here am I. Send me!” Then God replied, “Go and tell this people: “‘Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.’ The mission God had for Isaiah was to give His Words of praise and comfort and to confront their sinfulness. It was not an easy task. What God has for us is not easy either but we are assured in 2 Timothy 2:16-17 that His Word will equip us to do His work, All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Christ himself will be with us, Ephesians 4:11-12 “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” Are you willing to say Yes to God and go where He sends you? Let Isaiah’s encounter with God open your eyes to your own sinfulness and need for repentance and surrender. Let his encounter open your eyes to the majesty and grandeur of God. Let his encounter open your eyes to see and experience God’s holiness and His desire for you to be holy through His Son Jesus. “Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” in John 14:6. Let Isaiah lead you to Holy Savior in Jesus. Linda SERMON LINK ISAIAH: A VISION FOR THE FUTURE | Hope in Pursuing A Holy God Click Here to View the Sermon Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. |
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