Sermon on 9 March 2021 by Ps Justin
Introduction
The apostle Paul was so joyful, even when he was in prison. How can we have such joy, even as we go through challenges?
Message
God is in control. Whatever He instructs, He will bring it to pass. We have to have faith. You have victory because of your faith (1 John 5:4).
being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; - Philippians 1:6
always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, - Philippians 1:4
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! - Philippians 4:4
When God says rejoice always, He means all the time. This applies to all of us. We want to work towards “always”. The Father will strengthen us even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death (Psalm 23). Each time we suffer, remember that He is equipping us. God did not give us a spirit of bondage to fear (Romans 8:15). Do not live in fear. God chose you before the foundation of the earth. He wants us to be fruitful, to multiply the fruit of righteousness.
The joy of a Christian is not based on agreeable circumstances. We do not need to depend on agreeable circumstances – the joy of the world, when things have to go smoothly in order for us to be happy. Instead, it is based on our relationship with God. Surrender your mind to God daily. Be submissive. Spend time with God. Draw near to Him with an assurance of faith, hope and love. Without faith, you can never please Him. He is a rewarder of those who seek Him diligently. This is the confidence that we have – when we ask according to His will, He will hear us (1 John 5:14).
Such people will not be overcome by evil. Those who are righteous will be long remembered. They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the Lord to care for them. They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly. – Psalm 112:6-8
1. Trust Christ is in control
Those who trust the Lord are like trees planted by the water, receiving nourishment from the source, Jesus Christ. Your leaves will be green and you will bear fruit. Rest and trust in Him.
2. Trust Christ for the outcome, not the event
All things are possible if you believe. Believe in what you say will happen and it will be done (Mark 11:24).
3. Demonstrate Christ is in control by living out Christ is in control
For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. – Proverbs 23:7
You are what you think. Right thinking will lead to right believing. Live in the light.
He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it. – 1 Thessalonians 5:24
Closing
Our Abba Father loves us. He will take care of us and fight for us. He will walk us through difficult situations. Every situation that we go through only serves to strengthen us.
Comments