Opening Remarks* The purpose of gathering is to worship God, not to focus on Elder Roger or songs. * Expresses being 70 years old, soon to be 71, and aware of having more past than future. + There is no fear of death because of knowing what awaits after life. * The message has been on Elder Roger’s heart, waiting for divine guidance on when to share it. + Decided to speak after being asked by Brother Tommy and seeking God’s direction. * Relying on the Lord and aiming to convey what God has laid on their heart.
Scripture Reading and Prayer* Reading from Isaiah 41. + Specific verses mentioned: Isaiah 41:10, 41:13, 2 Timothy 1:7 * Prayer for divine help in delivering the message. + Asking God to step aside and allow God’s will to be done.
Overcoming Fear Through Faith* Reiterates not fearing what is coming because of faith in God. * God loves people enough to help them through difficulties. * Criticizes Christians who worry excessively. + Example: People walking around with their heads down and wringing their hands. * If you have God in your heart, don’t worry about what’s going to happen. * Reference to the story of the three men in the fiery furnace. + God brought them out unharmed. * Reference to the Israelites crossing the Red Sea. + God opened the sea to save them from the pursuing army. * God will not let you perish and loves you enough to save your soul.
God’s Unfailing Support* Emphasizes the phrase “Fear not” from Isaiah 41:13. * Personal testimony of experiencing God’s support through difficult times. + God was holding my hand. * God lifts people up when they are down and out. + God can take you up out of the marty clay. * Just call upon his holy name. * God will not let his children down. * Personal belief in God’s love and sacrifice. + God sent his only begotten son to die for his old boy.
Serving God and Rejecting Fear* Many people don’t want to call on God anymore. * God wants people to serve him and have access to all available blessings. + God has a storehouse of blessings. * Reference to 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” * Acknowledges not having a great natural mind but knowing that God loves them. + That’s the most important thing in my life at this time, that God loves me and he watches over me.
Sound Mind Through God* God gives a sound mind to know right from wrong. * A sound mind helps recognize when one is acting against God’s will. * When God changes your heart, he gives you a sound mind to know what you’re doing good or doing wrong. * That’s our mission.