Weekly Sermon Recap - 8.3.25
Change is Coming: Embracing God's Progressive Will
In a world that often seems chaotic and unpredictable, one truth remains constant: God does not change. His love, faithfulness, and promises are unwavering. Yet, while God's character is immutable, His will for our lives is progressive and dynamic. As believers, we are called to discern this will and move forward with it, even when it means stepping out of our comfort zones.
The concept of testing the spirits, as outlined in 1 John 4:1-6, isn't just about identifying otherworldly entities. It's about discerning truth from lies in our everyday lives. In a world saturated with information and conflicting messages, how do we know what's truly from God? The answer lies in knowing the Truth Himself - Jesus Christ.
Jesus declared, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." When we are deeply rooted in Him, we develop a spiritual sensitivity that helps us recognize falsehood. It's like bank tellers who study genuine currency so intently that they can immediately spot counterfeits. Our focus should be on knowing Christ so intimately that anything contrary to His nature becomes glaringly obvious.
This discernment is crucial because change is on the horizon. While this might evoke fear or resistance in many, it's essential to understand that God's will is always moving forward. We must progress with it or risk being left behind. James 1:22-25 exhorts us to be "doers of the word, and not hearers only." It's not enough to simply know the truth; we must act on it.
Consider the story of Judas Iscariot. He had a fixed idea of what the Messiah's mission should be - overthrowing Roman rule and establishing a political kingdom. When Jesus' path diverged from this expectation, Judas couldn't adapt. He missed the greater plan of salvation because he was unwilling to change his perspective.
Change often brings increased responsibility, which can be daunting. However, with responsibility comes authority. God is preparing His people for promotion - not just a select few, but everyone who is willing to step up. This might mean taking on new roles, developing new skills, or venturing into unfamiliar territory. The key is to remain open and obedient to God's leading.
Remember the account of Lester Sumrall, who at 60 years old, received a divine visitation with instructions to start a global ministry involving ocean-going ships. When Sumrall expressed hesitation due to his age, the Lord responded that He could finally trust him - with money and with moral integrity. This story reminds us that God's timing is perfect, and He prepares us for the tasks He has in store.
As we navigate these changes, it's crucial to remember that God's unchanging nature is our anchor. James 1:17 assures us that every good and perfect gift comes from the Father of lights, "with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." While circumstances, roles, and responsibilities may shift, God's love, promises, and character remain steadfast.
So how do we prepare for the changes ahead? Here are some practical steps:
1. Stay rooted in God's Word: Regular Bible study helps us recognize His voice and discern His will.
2. Be willing to let go: Sometimes, God asks us to step back from current roles to make way for new opportunities.
3. Embrace discomfort: Growth often happens outside our comfort zones.
4. Act on what you hear: Don't just accumulate knowledge; put it into practice.
5. Trust God's timing: Like Lester Sumrall, your greatest ministry might come at an unexpected season of life.
6. Cultivate spiritual sensitivity: Train yourself to recognize truth by steering clear of lies and deception.
7. Stay humble and teachable: God often works in ways we don't expect.
As we stand on the brink of change, it's natural to feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. But remember, these changes are part of God's progressive will for our lives and our communities. He is calling each of us to step up, to take on new responsibilities, and to grow in our faith and service.
The apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 3:13-14, "Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." This forward-looking, progressive attitude is what God is calling us to embrace.
Change is coming, and it brings with it opportunities for growth, impact, and deeper intimacy with God. Will you be ready? Will you be willing to step out in faith, even when the path ahead seems uncertain? Remember, the One who calls you is faithful, and He will equip you for every good work He has prepared for you.
As you reflect on these truths, take a moment to pray. Ask God to reveal areas in your life where change is needed. Surrender your fears and reservations to Him, and express your willingness to follow wherever He leads. The journey ahead may be challenging, but it promises to be filled with growth, purpose, and the unmistakable presence of our unchanging God.
In a world that often seems chaotic and unpredictable, one truth remains constant: God does not change. His love, faithfulness, and promises are unwavering. Yet, while God's character is immutable, His will for our lives is progressive and dynamic. As believers, we are called to discern this will and move forward with it, even when it means stepping out of our comfort zones.
The concept of testing the spirits, as outlined in 1 John 4:1-6, isn't just about identifying otherworldly entities. It's about discerning truth from lies in our everyday lives. In a world saturated with information and conflicting messages, how do we know what's truly from God? The answer lies in knowing the Truth Himself - Jesus Christ.
Jesus declared, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." When we are deeply rooted in Him, we develop a spiritual sensitivity that helps us recognize falsehood. It's like bank tellers who study genuine currency so intently that they can immediately spot counterfeits. Our focus should be on knowing Christ so intimately that anything contrary to His nature becomes glaringly obvious.
This discernment is crucial because change is on the horizon. While this might evoke fear or resistance in many, it's essential to understand that God's will is always moving forward. We must progress with it or risk being left behind. James 1:22-25 exhorts us to be "doers of the word, and not hearers only." It's not enough to simply know the truth; we must act on it.
Consider the story of Judas Iscariot. He had a fixed idea of what the Messiah's mission should be - overthrowing Roman rule and establishing a political kingdom. When Jesus' path diverged from this expectation, Judas couldn't adapt. He missed the greater plan of salvation because he was unwilling to change his perspective.
Change often brings increased responsibility, which can be daunting. However, with responsibility comes authority. God is preparing His people for promotion - not just a select few, but everyone who is willing to step up. This might mean taking on new roles, developing new skills, or venturing into unfamiliar territory. The key is to remain open and obedient to God's leading.
Remember the account of Lester Sumrall, who at 60 years old, received a divine visitation with instructions to start a global ministry involving ocean-going ships. When Sumrall expressed hesitation due to his age, the Lord responded that He could finally trust him - with money and with moral integrity. This story reminds us that God's timing is perfect, and He prepares us for the tasks He has in store.
As we navigate these changes, it's crucial to remember that God's unchanging nature is our anchor. James 1:17 assures us that every good and perfect gift comes from the Father of lights, "with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." While circumstances, roles, and responsibilities may shift, God's love, promises, and character remain steadfast.
So how do we prepare for the changes ahead? Here are some practical steps:
1. Stay rooted in God's Word: Regular Bible study helps us recognize His voice and discern His will.
2. Be willing to let go: Sometimes, God asks us to step back from current roles to make way for new opportunities.
3. Embrace discomfort: Growth often happens outside our comfort zones.
4. Act on what you hear: Don't just accumulate knowledge; put it into practice.
5. Trust God's timing: Like Lester Sumrall, your greatest ministry might come at an unexpected season of life.
6. Cultivate spiritual sensitivity: Train yourself to recognize truth by steering clear of lies and deception.
7. Stay humble and teachable: God often works in ways we don't expect.
As we stand on the brink of change, it's natural to feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. But remember, these changes are part of God's progressive will for our lives and our communities. He is calling each of us to step up, to take on new responsibilities, and to grow in our faith and service.
The apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 3:13-14, "Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." This forward-looking, progressive attitude is what God is calling us to embrace.
Change is coming, and it brings with it opportunities for growth, impact, and deeper intimacy with God. Will you be ready? Will you be willing to step out in faith, even when the path ahead seems uncertain? Remember, the One who calls you is faithful, and He will equip you for every good work He has prepared for you.
As you reflect on these truths, take a moment to pray. Ask God to reveal areas in your life where change is needed. Surrender your fears and reservations to Him, and express your willingness to follow wherever He leads. The journey ahead may be challenging, but it promises to be filled with growth, purpose, and the unmistakable presence of our unchanging God.
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