Thrive.Church Weekly Message: Recent Episodes
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[Matthew 25:14-15 ESV] "For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. [15] To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away.
Everything you have is a _______________ from God.
We are ____________________ and not ___________________.
[Matthew 25:16-18 ESV] He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. [17] So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. [18] But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master's money.
God gives us resources according to our ____________________, and expects us to ____________________ them.
[Matthew 25:19-23 ESV] Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. [20] And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, 'Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.' [21] His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.' [22] And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, 'Master, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.' [23] His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.'
There is great ______________ in taking a __________ for Jesus.
[Matthew 25:24-30 ESV] He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, 'Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, [25] so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.' [26] But his master answered him, 'You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? [27] Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. [28] So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents. [29] For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. [30] And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'
Fear can ____________________ us from achieving God's ____________________ for our lives.
[1 Corinthians 3:12-15] Anyone who builds on that foundation may use a variety of materials--gold, silver, jewels, wood, hay, or straw. [13] But on the judgment day, fire will reveal what kind of work each builder has done. The fire will show if a person's work has any value. [14] If the work survives, that builder will receive a reward. [15] But if the work is burned up, the builder will suffer great loss. The builder will be saved, but like someone barely escaping through a wall of flames.
Everything you work for will either ____________________ away or be left ____________________.
A _________ and Glorious Morn[Lamentations 3:20-26 NIV] I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. [21] Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: [22] Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. [23] They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. [24] I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” [25] The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; [26] it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.A New Day with ___________ Brings1. Exactly what you ___________God gives you what you need not necessarily what you _______________.2. The ___________ to keep goingWhen we put our hope in the _______________ places we end up hopeless.[Hebrews 10:23] Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.It may be dark for a while but a ________ ________ is coming.3. The ___________ you're seekingYou can't imagine the difference a _______________ with Jesus can make.There are no _______________ situations only people who have become hopeless.[Romans 13:11-12] This is all the more urgent, for you know how late it is; time is running out. Wake up, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. [12] The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living.
Parables are seemingly __________ stories that have _____________ meaning to them.
[Matthew 13:44-46] Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. [45] Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, [46] who, when he had found one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
Finding the kingdom of heaven is like finding the _____________ valuable thing you could think of for a greater ____________ than you could ever imagine and __________ at hand that you could ever think.
[1 Kings 19:20-21 ESV] And he left the oxen and ran after Elijah and said, “Let me kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow you.” And he said to him, “Go back again, for what have I done to you? [21] And he returned from following him and took the yoke of oxen and sacrificed them and boiled their flesh with the yokes of the oxen and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he arose and went after Elijah and assisted him.
Our salvation is _________ important and has greater _________ than we could ever comprehend.
[Philippians 3:8-10] Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ [9] and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; [10] that
I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, [11] if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.
God __________ have precedence over everything in our lives.
Spend time seeking __________ treasure.
If you don't turn the blessing into ____________ it will turn into ____________.The opposite of gratitude is ______________________.[Colossians 1:12a] and giving joyful thanks to the Father,[Psalm 107:2] Has the LORD redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies.Thankful ____________Before we can be thankful we need to become ____________ of the good things God is doing around us.[Deuteronomy 8:7-11] For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land of flowing streams and pools of water, with fountains and springs that gush out in the valleys and hills. [8] It is a land of wheat and barley; of grapevines, fig trees, and pomegranates; of olive oil and honey. [9] It is a land where food is plentiful and nothing is lacking. It is a land where iron is as common as stone, and copper is abundant in the hills. [10] When you have eaten your fill, be sure to praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you. [11] “But that is the time to be careful! Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the Lord your God and disobey his commands, regulations, and decrees that I am giving you today.If you want the ____________ you need to praise!Thankful ____________ thoughCan I thank God even in ____________ times?[Habakkuk 3:17-18] Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, [18] yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.Thankful ____________ of[2 Corinthians 12:9-10] Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. [10] That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.I thank Him because of what the __________ is producing in me.[1 Thessalonians 5:18] Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.[Hebrews 13:15] Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name.
There is great ___________________ within things that seem insignificant.
[Matthew 13:31-32] Here is another illustration Jesus used: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. [32] It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches."
God can use even the smallest acts of ______________ to bring about ___________________ things.
[Zechariah 4:10a] Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin...
Keep moving forward when the growth process seems ___________________ and ___________________.
Lasting growth always requires ___________________.
[1 Corinthians 3:6-9] I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. [7] It's not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What's important is that God makes the seed grow. [8] The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. [9] For we are both God's workers. And you are God's field. You are God's building.
We need to ___________________ the seeds of our faith.
My small actions can bring ___________________ to someone in need.
[Matthew 17:20] "You don't have enough faith," Jesus told them. "I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it would move. Nothing would be impossible."
[John 8:32] And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”[John 14:6] Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.The first step of freedom is coming to __________.You are not defined by what's around you, you are defined by the ___________ living inside of you!As followers of Christ we forfeit many of the so-called _______________ of our country.FREEDOM FROM __________[Galatians 5:13] For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.Just because you have the freedom to act like a _____________ doesn't mean you should.In order to be tolerant you need to accept people with an __________________ view as yourself.[John 8:36] So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.FREEDOM FROM __________[Romans 8:1] So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.Once you are forgiven...you are _______________!There aren't different ____________ of forgiveness.[2 Corinthians 3:17] For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
[Luke 18:9-10] Then Jesus told this story to some who had great confidence in their own righteousness and scorned everyone else: [10] "Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector.
Pride is nearly impossible to _________________________.
[Luke 18:11-14] The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: 'I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else. For I don't cheat, I don't sin, and I don't commit adultery. I'm certainly not like that tax collector! [12] I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.'
God doesn't count the _______________ of our prayers; He measures the _______________.
[Matthew 6:5-6] "When you pray, don't be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get. [6] But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.
God values ____________________________ in our prayers more than eloquence.
[Luke 18:13-14] "But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, 'O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.' [14] I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."
True humility isn’t thinking _______________ of yourself; it’s thinking of __________________ less and God more.
True righteousness comes from a _______________ heart.
[Matthew 23:11-12] The greatest among you must be a servant. [12] But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
God's _______________ is available to all regardless of their _______________.
We are to _______________ the authorities of the land.[John 19:10-11] “Why don’t you talk to me?” Pilate demanded. “Don’t you realize that I have the power to release you or crucify you?” [11] Then Jesus said, “You would have no power over me at all unless it were given to you from above. So the one who handed me over to you has the greater sin.”[Romans 13:1-2] Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. [2] So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished.Submit (Greek: hypotassō): to put ____________ one's control. ____________ to someone's advice or authority.Submission is an _______________ not an action.[1 Kings 11:14, 23, 26] Then the Lord raised up Hadad the Edomite, a member of Edom’s royal family, to be Solomon’s adversary. [23] God also raised up Rezon son of Eliada as Solomon’s adversary. Rezon had fled from his master, King Hadadezer of Zobah, [26] Another rebel leader was Jeroboam son of Nebat, one of Solomon’s own officials.We trust in a God who reigns even over ______________ people.Submission starts with having a heart that says “_________” to God.For a nation to be under God it starts with ____________ who are under God's authority.The American dream is often _______________ of living a life under God.[Titus 3:1] Remind the believers to submit to the government and its officers. They should be obedient, always ready to do what is good.We will submit to the government but we put our ______________ in God.Don't run from culture, _______________ it!
[Luke 12:13-15] Then someone called from the crowd, "Teacher, please tell my brother to divide our father's estate with me." [14] Jesus replied, "Friend, who made me a judge over you to decide such things as that?" [15] Then he said, "Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own."
Greed isn't about having a ____________; it’s about wanting ____________.
[Luke 12:16-21] Then he told them a story: "A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. [17] He said to himself, 'What should I do? I don't have room for all my crops.' [18] Then he said, 'I know! I'll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I'll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods. [19] And I'll sit back and say to myself, "My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!"' [20] "But God said to him, 'You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?' [21] "Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God."
Don't prioritize material _________________ over spiritual _________________.
[Ecclesiastes 5:10] Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness!
The measure of life isn't what we _________________ for but what we _________________ for.
[Matthew 6:19-21] "Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. [20] Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. [21] Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.
Are we focused on _________________ treasure or on _________________ treasure?
The pursuit of wealth will make us _________________, but the pursuit of God brings _________________.
Judah's 100th Sermon at Thrive!
The people wanted a _____________, but Jesus came as a ___________________.[Mark 10:42-45] So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. [43] But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, [44] and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. [45] For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”Serve _______________.[Philippians 2:3] Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.God _____________ the proud and gives ____________ to the humble.Serve _______________.[Psalm 100:2 NKJV] Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing.Serve _______________.Jesus encourages us not to only serve the important people but also the ________________.[Matthew 18:5] And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me.[Matthew 10:42] And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded.”Things that Keep us from Serving Others:___________________[Matthew 6:1] “Watch out! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven.___________________We need to ruthlessly eliminate ______________ from our lives.___________________[Ecclesiastes 11:4] If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done.God isn't looking for perfection as much as he is looking for ____________________.[Colossians 3:17] And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.[Matthew 5:16] let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.
[Luke 18:1-5] One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up. [2] "There was a judge in a certain city," he said, "who neither feared God nor cared about people. [3] A widow of that city came to him repeatedly, saying, 'Give me justice in this dispute with my enemy.' [4] The judge ignored her for a while, but finally he said to himself, 'I don't fear God or care about people, [5] but this woman is driving me crazy. I'm going to see that she gets justice, because she is wearing me out with her constant requests!'"
You can’t ______________ God out with your prayers, but He wants you to ______________.
Jesus is telling us to pray ____________________ and ____________________.
[Luke 18:6-8] Then the Lord said, "Learn a lesson from this unjust judge. [7] Even he rendered a just decision in the end. So don't you think God will surely give justice to his chosen people who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? [8] I tell you, he will grant justice to them quickly! But when the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?"
[Hebrews 4:16] “So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”
[Hebrews 11:6] And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
You can ____________________ with the God of the ____________________.
Prayer is not about what we can _______________ from God, but about the ____________________ we are building with God.
_________________ __________________ strengthens our relationship with God as much as it ____________________ the hand of God.
[1 John 5:14-15] And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him. [15] And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for.
[Psalms 55:17] Morning, noon, and night I cry out in my distress, and the LORD hears my voice.
[John 17:20-24] “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. [21] I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me. [22] “I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one. [23] I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.Our ________ causes people to believe that Jesus is the Messiah.[Titus 3:9-10] Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These things are useless and a waste of time. [10] If people are causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with them.Disunity ______________ the mission[Matthew 16:18b NIV] And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. Ekklesia (Greek): a ________________ of citizens called out from their homes into some public place, an assembly or congregation._______ are the church.[Matthew 28:18-20] Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. [19] Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. [20] Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”Mission of ThriveChurch: To make fully-devoted ______________ of Christ.We should be known for what we are ___________ and not what we are against.We pursue __________________ over excellence.God cares about how much we love those who are extremely ____________________ from us.[Psalm 133:1-2] How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! [2] For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron’s head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe.[Colossians 3:13-14] Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. [14] Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.Don't just come to church, be a ________________ of it.
[1 John 1:9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse
us from all unrighteousness.
[Ephesians 2:8-9] For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is
the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.
Our works can’t clean us from the _________________ of sin.
[Ephesians 2:10] For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God
prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
God saved us to do _________________.
[James 2:26] For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
While _________________ don’t save us, they are
_________________ of our salvation.
Good works are not meant to show _________________ how good we are.
[Ephesians 4:22-24] Put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt
through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put
on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and
holiness.
Good works are the _________________ ability to do what God would have us do, _________________ to our own nature.
[1 John 3:16] Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.
God can turn our _________________ into _________________ of joy.
The people wanted a _____________, but Jesus came as a ___________________.[Mark 10:42-45] So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. [43] But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, [44] and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. [45] For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”Serve _______________.[Philippians 2:3] Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.God _____________ the proud and gives ____________ to the humble.Serve _______________.[Psalm 100:2 NKJV] Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing.Serve _______________.Jesus encourages us not to only serve the important people but also the ________________.[Matthew 18:5] And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me.[Matthew 10:42] And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded.”Things that Keep us from Serving Others:___________________[Matthew 6:1] “Watch out! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven.___________________We need to ruthlessly eliminate ______________ from our lives.___________________[Ecclesiastes 11:4] If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done.God isn't looking for perfection as much as he is looking for ____________________.[Colossians 3:17] And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.[Matthew 5:16] let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.
[Psalm 34:17-19] The LORD hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. [18] The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. [19] The righteous person faces many troubles, but the LORD comes to the rescue each time.
God is not _________________.
God is more _________________ than the _________________ surrounding you.
[2 Corinthians 4:8-9] We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. [9] We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.
_________________ may come but they don't have final say.
[Isaiah 41:10] Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
God promises to give His people the _________________ they need to face their challenges.
[Psalm 147:3] He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds.
God is the only One who can heal the _________________.
[Psalm 40:1-3] I waited patiently for the LORD to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. [2] He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. [3] He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the LORD.
God can turn our _________________ into _________________ of joy.
We need to move in towards ________________.[Romans 15:5-6] May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. [6] Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.________________ can only be developed when you're around other people.4 Things you can only get in a circle of friends:____________ – ____________ – ____________ – ___________[Proverbs 13:20] Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.Our pursuit of independence goes against God's desire for us to be dependent on _______ and the _____________ in His family.Don't settle for a personal relationship with God when you can have a ________________ relationship with Him.[Matthew 18:19-20] “I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. 20 For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.”Things that hinder relationships:Frequent ________________________________ Conveniences________________ MediaYou might be one ________________ away from changing the course of your life.[Acts 2:42-47] All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. [43] A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. [44] And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. [45] They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. [46] They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity— [47] all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.[John 13:35] Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”Legos only look good when they're ________________ ________________.
Only a weak God can't take ___________________.
[Mark 9:22-24] The spirit often throws him into the fire or into water, trying to kill him. Have mercy on us and help us, if you can." [23] "What do you mean, 'If I can'?" Jesus asked. "Anything is possible if a person believes." [24] The father instantly cried out, "I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!"
Don't let doubt have the ___________________ word.
Doubt is a ________________ part of our faith journey.
[Matthew 28:16-17] Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. [17] When they saw him, they worshiped him--but some of them doubted!
Your doubts don’t ___________________ your faith.
Don’t let your doubt be a __________ _________.
[Romans 10:17] So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.
Doubt doesn’t have to ___________________ us; it can ___________________ us.
[Psalm 8:3-4] When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, [4] what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?
God ___________________ us to bring our doubts to Him.
[Matthew 7:7-8] "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. [8] For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
Moving “up” is simply ______________ in our relationship with God through worship.[John 4:23-24] But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. [24] For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.”Worship is not ______________ it is a ______________.- ____________________[Ephesians 5:18-19] Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, [19] singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts.We worship through music because music engages our _____________.- ____________________[2 Corinthians 9:7] Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.[Romans 12:1] And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.[Romans 12:1 MSG] So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him.- ____________________[Matthew 25:35-40] For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, [36] I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ [37] Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? [38] And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? [39] And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ [40] And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’- ____________________[Psalm 1:1-3] Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. [2] But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. [3] They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.- ____________________ (_______________)[1 Timothy 2:1-2] I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. [2] Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.True worship is about ______________ God is in our life and ______________ He is on our list of priorities.[1 Corinthians 10:31] So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
Anything that competes with Jesus is a ________________.
[Exodus 14:11-12] and they said to Moses, "Why did you bring us out here to die in the wilderness? Weren't there enough graves for us in Egypt? What have you done to us? Why did you make us leave Egypt? [12] Didn't we tell you this would happen while we were still in Egypt? We said, 'Leave us alone! Let us be slaves to the Egyptians. It's better to be a slave in Egypt than a corpse in the wilderness!'"
God didn't ________________ you so you could go ________________ to bondage!
[Galatians 5:1] So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law.
Christ's work has already ________________ our chains of bondage.
True ________________ comes from Christ alone.
[Romans 6:16-18] Don't you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living. [17] Thank God! Once you were slaves of sin, but now you wholeheartedly obey this teaching we have given you. [18] Now you are free from your slavery to sin, and you have become slaves to righteous living.
True freedom is found in surrendering to God's __________ and walking in ________________.
[2 Corinthians 3:17] For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
Your mess isn't the ________________ mess God has seen.
[1 Peter 2:16] For you are free, yet you are God's slaves, so don't use your freedom as an excuse to do evil.
True freedom isn't found in ________________ but in dependence on God.
[Romans 8:1-2] So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. [2] And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.
Most people think freedom is the ability to do ____________ you want ____________ you want.[1 Peter 2:16] For you are free, yet you are God’s slaves, so don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil.[Galatians 5:13] For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.True freedom is not ____________ what you want it is being free from the power of ____________.[James 4:7] So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.Before you can resist sin you need to __________________ yourself.[1 Corinthians 10:12] If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.Freedom is not independence, it is ___________________ on God.[1 Corinthians 10:13] The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.God always provides a ____________ ____________.[John 8:31-32, 36] Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. [32] And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” [36] So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.We stay faithful to his teachings by studying ____________ ____________.[Galatians 5:1a] So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free.[Romans 8:1] So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. 2 And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.When you belong to Christ there's no need to feel _____________ and condemnation.
[Philippians 4:6-13] Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. [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. [8] And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. [9] Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. [10] How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me. [11] Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. [12] I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. [13] For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.Refuse to ____________ about anything.(Matthew 6:25-34 - Jesus' teaching on worry)Talk to God about __________________.If you ________________ as much as you worried you'd have a lot less to worry about.Thank God in _______ things.______________ people are grateful and _________________ people are ungrateful.[1 Thessalonians 5:18 NKJV] in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.Think about ____________ things.What you fill your mind with will determine the ____________ level in your life.[Isaiah 26:3] You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!Be ____________ with anything.Being content is __________________ what I have right now.[Proverbs 14:30] A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body; jealousy is like cancer in the bones.You need to find your _________________ in something that can never be taken from you.[2 Corinthians 4:8-9] We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. 9 We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.
Jesus came to defeat __________ through the resurrection.
[1 John 4:9-10] God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. [10] This is real love--not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
We can't have _____________ until we have been rescued.
[Romans 5:6-8] When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. [7] Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. [8] But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
You __________________ save yourself.
[Luke 24:1-7] But very early on Sunday morning the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. [2] They found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. [3] So they went in, but they didn't find the body of the Lord Jesus. [4] As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared to them, clothed in dazzling robes. [5] The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, "Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? [6] He isn't here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, [7] that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day."
The stone was rolled away to show us that our rescue was __________________.
The __________ __________ is the ultimate symbol of God’s power over death.
[Ephesians 2:4-5] But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, [5] that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's grace that you have been saved!)
Death is not the __________ for those who put their __________ in Jesus.
[Colossians 1:13-14] For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, [14] who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.
Doing ____________ things brings more satisfaction that doing ____________ things.You were made for more than a life of ____________.[Judges 6:11-12] Then the angel of the Lord came and sat beneath the great tree at Ophrah, which belonged to Joash of the clan of Abiezer. Gideon son of Joash was threshing wheat at the bottom of a winepress to hide the grain from the Midianites. [12] The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, “Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!” [13] “Sir,” Gideon replied, “if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? And where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? Didn’t they say, ‘The Lord brought us up out of Egypt’? But now the Lord has abandoned us and handed us over to the Midianites.”[Psalm 16:8] I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.I don't need to be afraid because I put my _________ in the one who is able.[Judges 6:14-16] Then the Lord turned to him and said, “Go with the strength you have, and rescue Israel from the Midianites. I am sending you!” [15] “But Lord,” Gideon replied, “how can I rescue Israel? My clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!” [16] The Lord said to him, “I will be with you. And you will destroy the Midianites as if you were fighting against one man.”You were made to live a life of _______________![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.”God has already overcome the _________________ you are now facing.[2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV] For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.Fear (Greek: deilia): Timidity; fearfulness; ______________Power (Greek: dynamis): ________________ power.This miraculous power brings _______________.[Proverbs 28:1] The wicked run away when no one is chasing them, but the godly are as bold as lions.I can have courage because the Lord is with ________.
It's easy to forget God in the middle of life's ____________.
[Ecclesiastes 12:1-3, 6] Don't let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator. Honor him in your youth before you grow old and say, "Life is not pleasant anymore." [2] Remember him before the light of the sun, moon, and stars is dim to your old eyes, and rain clouds continually darken your sky. [3] Remember him before your legs--the guards of your house--start to tremble; and before your shoulders--the strong men--stoop. Remember him before your teeth--your few remaining servants--stop grinding; and before your eyes--the women looking through the windows--see dimly. [6] Yes, remember your Creator now while you are young, before the silver cord of life snaps and the golden bowl is broken. Don't wait until the water jar is smashed at the spring and the pulley is broken at the well.
So many things are competing for our _________________.
[Psalm 103:2] Let all that I am praise the LORD; may I never forget the good things he does for me.
We need find ways to remember God's _________________ and ____________________ in our lives.
[Deuteronomy 8:18-19] Remember the LORD your God. He is the one who gives you power to be successful, in order to fulfill the covenant he confirmed to your ancestors with an oath. [19] "But I assure you of this: If you ever forget the LORD your God and follow other gods, worshiping and bowing down to them, you will certainly be destroyed.
Don't _________________ that God made a way.
[Mark 11:9-10] Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around him were shouting, "Praise God! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the LORD! [10] Blessings on the coming Kingdom of our ancestor David! Praise God in highest heaven!"
We should remember to _________________ and _________________ God in our lives.
[Mark 15:11-14] But at this point the leading priests stirred up the crowd to demand the release of Barabbas instead of Jesus. [12] Pilate asked them, "Then what should I do with this man you call the king of the Jews?" [13] They shouted back, "Crucify him!" [14] "Why?" Pilate demanded. "What crime has he committed?" But the mob roared even louder, "Crucify him!"
Don't _________________ God on one day and _________________ Him the next?
Hypocrite (Greek: hypokritēs): an ______________ under an assumed character; stage player. Impersonator. Pretender.We use masks to hide our real ______________.[Galatians 1:10] Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.We wear masks when we are looking for approval from ______________ rather than ______________.MASKS THAT WE USEThe ________ __________ - All about _________.[Philippians 2:3 TLB] Don’t be selfish; don’t live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself.[Galatians 6:2] Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.The __________ Face - Hiding ________ and ___________.[Ephesians 2:10] For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.____________ - Hiding our ______________ and struggles. Hiding behind our strength.[Proverbs 3:7] Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.[2 Corinthians 12:9-10] Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. [10] That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.We wear masks because we think no one will ___________ us just the way we are.[Romans 5:8] But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.[James 5:16] Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.We have to take off our masks to _________ sins to each other.
[Ecclesiastes 7:1-3] A good reputation is more valuable than costly perfume. And the day you die is better than the day you are born. [2] Better to spend your time at funerals than at parties. After all, everyone dies--so the living should take this to heart. [3] Sorrow is better than laughter, for sadness has a refining influence on us.
________________ shapes us more than ___________________.
[Ecclesiastes 9:2-4] The same destiny ultimately awaits everyone, whether righteous or wicked, good or bad, ceremonially clean or unclean, religious or irreligious. Good people receive the same treatment as sinners, and people who make promises to God are treated like people who don't. [3] It seems so tragic that everyone under the sun suffers the same fate. That is why people are not more careful to be good. Instead, they choose their own mad course, for they have no hope. There is nothing ahead but death anyway. [4] There is hope only for the living. As they say, "It's better to be a live dog than a dead lion!"
Life is _________________ and death is ___________________.
[Ecclesiastes 6:12] In the few days of our meaningless lives, who knows how our days can best be spent? Our lives are like a shadow. Who can tell what will happen on this earth after we are gone?
Death should be a motivation for us to use our ______________ effectively.
[Ecclesiastes 10:8-9] When you dig a well, you might fall in. When you demolish an old wall, you could be bitten by a snake. [9] When you work in a quarry, stones might fall and crush you. When you chop wood, there is danger with each stroke of your ax.
[1 Corinthians 15:50] What I am saying, dear brothers and sisters, is that our physical bodies cannot inherit the Kingdom of God. These dying bodies cannot inherit what will last forever.
Death is God's way of giving you ________________ life.
[1 Corinthians 15:54-57] Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: "Death is swallowed up in victory. [55] O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?" [56] For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. [57] But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Even in death Jesus gives us ________________.
[Matthew 6:19-20] "Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. [20] Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal.
Our legacy isn't in the ________________ we gain but in the difference we make.
[Matthew 7:1-5] “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. [2] For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. [3] “And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own? [4] How can you think of saying to your friend, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? [5] Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye.[Matthew 7:15] “Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves.1. Never judge __________________.[John 7:24] Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly.”2. Never judge __________________.[Romans 2:1-4] You may think you can condemn such people, but you are just as bad, and you have no excuse! When you say they are wicked and should be punished, you are condemning yourself, for you who judge others do these very same things. 2 And we know that God, in his justice, will punish anyone who does such things. 3 Since you judge others for doing these things, why do you think you can avoid God’s judgment when you do the same things? 4 Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?We tend to ____________ others and ____________ ourselves.Our harshest judgement usually reveals our deepest __________________.3. Never hold an unbeliever to Christian ____________.[1 Corinthians 5:12] It isn’t my responsibility to judge outsiders, but it certainly is your responsibility to judge those inside the church who are sinning.4. Help __________________ fallen believers.[Galatians 6:1-3] Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. 2 Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. 3 If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important.Show the same ___________ you want to be shown.
[Ecclesiastes 2:12-13] So I decided to compare wisdom with foolishness and madness (for who can do this better than I, the king?). [13] I thought, "Wisdom is better than foolishness, just as light is better than darkness.
Human _____________________ has its limits.
[Ecclesiastes 1:16-18] I said to myself, "Look, I am wiser than any of the kings who ruled in Jerusalem before me. I have greater wisdom and knowledge than any of them." [17] So I set out to learn everything from wisdom to madness and folly. But I learned firsthand that pursuing all this is like chasing the wind. [18] The greater my wisdom, the greater my grief. To increase knowledge only increases sorrow.
There's a difference between _____________________ wisdom and _____________________ wisdom.
[1 Corinthians 3:19-20] For the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. As the Scriptures say, "He traps the wise in the snare of their own cleverness." [20] And again, "The LORD knows the thoughts of the wise; he knows they are worthless."
The accumulation of worldly wisdom is ________________.
Wisdom is seeing _______________ from God's perspective
[Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV] Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
True wisdom is simply _____________________ God in every area of our life.
[Proverbs 1:7 NIV] The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Wisdom is not just about _____________________ what is right; it's about _____________________ that knowledge.
[James 1:5-7] If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. [6] But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. [7] Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.
[Matthew 6:1-4] “Watch out! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. [2] When you give to someone in need, don’t do as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get. [3] But when you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. [4] Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.Generosity draws me ___________ to God.[Matthew 6:19-21] “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. [20] Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. [21] Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.I ___________ in the things that are important to me.Generosity is rewarded in ___________.The more ___________ you become the more generous you become.Generosity is _______ in action.If I'm not generous I'm not a ___________ person.Generosity is the ________ for materialism.[Matthew 6:24] “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.The only ___________ for materialism is generosity.Generosity attracts God's ___________.[Malachi 3:10] Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test!God dares you to ___________ him.[Matthew 6:33] Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
It seems like the more we _________ the less we _______________.
[Ecclesiastes 6:9] Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you don't have. Just dreaming about nice things is meaningless--like chasing the wind.
The gift isn't in the ____________; it's in the ___________.
[Ecclesiastes 5:18-20] Even so, I have noticed one thing, at least, that is good. It is good for people to eat, drink, and enjoy their work under the sun during the short life God has given them, and to accept their lot in life. [19] And it is a good thing to receive wealth from God and the good health to enjoy it. To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life--this is indeed a gift from God. [20] God keeps such people so busy enjoying life that they take no time to brood over the past.
If I’m not satisfied with what I _________ I’ll never be satisfied with what I _________.
Contentment isn't found in _________-sufficiency but in _________-sufficiency.
[Matthew 20:8-12] "That evening he told the foreman to call the workers in and pay them, beginning with the last workers first. [9] When those hired at five o'clock were paid, each received a full day's wage. [10] When those hired first came to get their pay, they assumed they would receive more. But they, too, were paid a day's wage. [11] When they received their pay, they protested to the owner, [12] 'Those people worked only one hour, and yet you've paid them just as much as you paid us who worked all day in the scorching heat.'
The secret to combat discontent is __________________.
[Philippians 4:11-13] Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. [12] I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. [13] For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
Contentment isn't found in what you HAVE it is found in _____________ alone.
[Ecclesiastes 6:6-9] He might live a thousand years twice over but still not find contentment. And since he must die like everyone else--well, what's the use? [7] All people spend their lives scratching for food, but they never seem to have enough. [8] So are wise people really better off than fools? Do poor people gain anything by being wise and knowing how to act in front of others? [9] Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you don't have. Just dreaming about nice things is meaningless--like chasing the wind.
[Luke 5:16] But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.[Matthew 6:5-8 NIV] “When you pray, don’t be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get. [6] But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. [7] “When you pray, don’t babble on and on as people of other religions do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again. [8] Don’t be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him![Matthew 6:9-13 KJV] After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. [10] Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. [11] Give us this day our daily bread. [12] And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. [13] And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.The Lord's Prayer has six elements. Three directed towards ________ and three towards ________.[Matthew 6:9 NLT] Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy.The Lord's Prayer is ________ a prayer, it is a ____________ for prayer.We begin with ______________.[Psalm 100:4] Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name.Praise is the prerequisite to __________________.Prayer for God's ______________.[Matthew 6:33] Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.Your Will ______________ My Own.Never be afraid to commit an unknown future to a _____________ God.My ______________.[Matthew 7:9-11] “You parents—if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? [10] Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! [11] So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.God says that he will take care of our needs but not necessarily our __________________.Ask for ______________.[Matthew 7:3] “And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own?Protection from ______________.[Matthew 6:13] And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one.If you can't pray and ask God to ____________ it you probably shouldn't be doing it.
[Ecclesiastes 3:1] For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.
Life isn't random _______________, it's a series of _______________.
[Ecclesiastes 3:2-8] A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest. [3] A time to kill and a time to heal. A time to tear down and a time to build up. [4] A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance. [5] A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones. A time to embrace and a time to turn away. [6] A time to search and a time to quit searching. A time to keep and a time to throw away. [7] A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak. [8] A time to love and a time to hate. A time for war and a time for peace.
Every season has a _______________.
We can't control what _______________ to us but we can control how we _______________.
[Ecclesiastes 3:11] Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end.
Our goal isn't to _______________ the season but to _______________ God in it.
[Psalm 31:14-15] But I am trusting you, O LORD, saying, "You are my God!" [15] My future is in your hands. Rescue me from those who hunt me down relentlessly.
God can turn our _______________ seasons into our greatest _______________.
[Psalm 62:5-6] Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him. [6] He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken.
We need to yield to God's _______________.
[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."
[Matthew 5:21-22] “You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not ______________. If you commit ______________, you are subject to ______________.’ [22] But I say, if you are even ______________ with someone, you are subject to ______________! If you call someone an ______________, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell.RACA (Aramaic term): __________ __________ – idiot.[Mark 7:20-21a] And then he added, “It is what comes from ______________ that defiles you. [21] For from within, out of a ______________ ______________, come evil thoughts,[Ephesians 4:27] for anger gives a ______________ to the devil.[Matthew 5:23-24] “So if you are presenting a ______________ at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, __________ _________ ______________ there at the altar. Go and be ______________ to that person. Then come and offer your ______________ to God.[Matthew 6:14] “If you ___________ those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will ____________ you.[Matthew 5:25-26] “When you are on the way to court with your adversary, ___________ _________ ______________ ______________. Otherwise, your accuser may hand you over to the judge, who will hand you over to an officer, and you will be thrown into ______________. [26] And if that happens, you surely won’t be free again until you have paid the last penny.[James 1:5] If you need wisdom, ask _____ ____________ ________, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.
[Ecclesiastes 1:1-3 NIV] The words of the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem: [2] "Meaningless! Meaningless!" says the Teacher. "Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless." [3] What do people gain from all their labors at which they toil under the sun?
Don't spend your life pursuing things that have no ______________ ______________ or significance.
[Ecclesiastes 1:8-11] Everything is wearisome beyond description. No matter how much we see, we are never satisfied. No matter how much we hear, we are not content. [9] History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new. [10] Sometimes people say, "Here is something new!" But actually it is old; nothing is ever truly new. [11] We don't remember what happened in the past, and in future generations, no one will remember what we are doing now.
We are all ______________ something.
[Ecclesiastes 1:14] I observed everything going on under the sun, and really, it is all meaningless--like chasing the wind.
Chasing ________________ is like running after the wind.
We need to _______________ our lives into things that _______________.
[James 1:17] Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.
Life is _____________________ without God.
The world doesn't offer real ____________________.
[Philippians 3:8] Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ
You are the __________ of the earth and the __________ of the world!Matthew 5:13 “You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.What Does Salt Do? Salt creates ________________ Salt ________________ Salt ________________ Salt ________________Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15 No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.The world needs light because it is ________________.What Does Light Do? Light ________________ Light ________________ Light brings ________________ Light ________________Acts 16:25-28 Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. 26 Suddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off! 27 The jailer woke up to see the prison doors wide open. He assumed the prisoners had escaped, so he drew his sword to kill himself. 28 But Paul shouted to him, “Stop! Don’t kill yourself! We are all here!” John 13:35 Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples."Two reasons your light isn't shining: you're ________________ it or it was ________________ out.Acts 16:29-31 The jailer called for lights and ran to the dungeon and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 Then he brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household.”Living as salt and light ________________ lives.
We aren't made to do life ______________.
[Psalm 92:12-15 CSB] The righteous thrive like a palm tree and grow like a cedar tree in Lebanon. [13] Planted in the house of the LORD, they thrive in the courts of our God. [14] They will still bear fruit in old age, healthy and green, [15] to declare, "The LORD is just; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him."
We don't just _______ to church, we _________ the church.
[Exodus 17:8-13] While the people of Israel were still at Rephidim, the warriors of Amalek attacked them. [9] Moses commanded Joshua, "Choose some men to go out and fight the army of Amalek for us. Tomorrow, I will stand at the top of the hill, holding the staff of God in my hand." [10] So Joshua did what Moses had commanded and fought the army of Amalek. Meanwhile, Moses, Aaron, and Hur climbed to the top of a nearby hill. [11] As long as Moses held up the staff in his hand, the Israelites had the advantage. But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites gained the advantage. [12] Moses' arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset. [13] As a result, Joshua overwhelmed the army of Amalek in battle.
Everyone should have a ______________ and a ______________________.
[Hebrews 10:24-25] Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. [25] And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.
If you aren't ___________________ others, then you're doing it wrong.
[1 John 4:11-12] Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. [12] No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.
The closer we get to ______________, the more we need to love ______________.
[Ecclesiastes 4:12] A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
Together we can accomplish _____________ ____________ for God's Kingdom.
Matthew 5:1-12 (NIV) Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them. He said:The beatitudes aren't _______________ for how to gain blessings.Makarios: supremely blessed, ___________________, well off.Your negative feelings about your situation does not __________________ God's blessing.We want our situation to change but Jesus is saying that we are __________________.3 “Blessed are the _____________ in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.4 Blessed are those who _____________, for they will be comforted.5 Blessed are the ___________, for they will inherit the earth.6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for ___________________, for they will be filled.7 Blessed are the _________________, for they will be shown mercy.8 Blessed are the __________ in heart, for they will see God.9 Blessed are the _________________, for they will be called children of God.10 Blessed are those who are ______________ because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.You are blessed if you stand ____________ for Christ.
[Matthew 20:25-28] But Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. [26] But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, [27] and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. [28] For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Serving people is a _________________ way of showing _________________.
Pride says to serve ____________; while humility says to serve _________________.
[Matthew 25:34-40] "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. [35] For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. [36] I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.' [37] "Then these righteous ones will reply, 'Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? [38] Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? [39] When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?' [40] "And the King will say, 'I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!'
Serving people really _________________ to God.
[James 2:17-18] So you see, faith by itself isn't enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless. [18] Now someone may argue, "Some people have faith; others have good deeds." But I say, "How can you show me your faith if you don't have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds."
A _________________ faith is one that _________________ others.
We will always find ___________________ in serving others.
[Ephesians 6:7-8] Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, [8] because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.
God created us to _________________.
[Ephesians 2:10] For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
Genesis 13:8-13 Finally Abram said to Lot, “Let’s not allow this conflict to come between us or our herdsmen. After all, we are close relatives! 9 The whole countryside is open to you. Take your choice of any section of the land you want, and we will separate. If you want the land to the left, then I’ll take the land on the right. If you prefer the land on the right, then I’ll go to the left.” 10 Lot took a long look at the fertile plains of the Jordan Valley in the direction of Zoar. The whole area was well watered everywhere, like the garden of the Lord or the beautiful land of Egypt. (This was before the Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah.) 11 Lot chose for himself the whole Jordan Valley to the east of them. He went there with his flocks and servants and parted company with his uncle Abram. 12 So Abram settled in the land of Canaan, and Lot moved his tents to a place near Sodom and settled among the cities of the plain. 13 But the people of this area were extremely wicked and constantly sinned against the Lord.
Lot wanted to see how much he could get __________ __________.
- ___________ near Sodom.
Genesis 14:12 They also captured Lot—Abram’s nephew who lived in Sodom—and carried off everything he owned.
- ___________ into Sodom.
Sometimes we make a bad decision and it ends up holding us ____________________.
2 Peter 2:8 Yes, Lot was a righteous man who was tormented in his soul by the wickedness he saw and heard day after day.
Genesis 19:1-11 The two angels arrived at Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gateway of the city. When he saw them, he got up to meet them and bowed down with his face to the ground. 2 “My lords,” he said, “please turn aside to your servant’s house. You can wash your feet and spend the night and then go on your way early in the morning.” “No,” they answered, “we will spend the night in the square.” 3 But he insisted so strongly that they did go with him and entered his house. He prepared a meal for them, baking bread without yeast, and they ate. 4 Before they had gone to bed, all the men from every part of the city of Sodom—both young and old—surrounded the house. 5 They called to Lot, “Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us so that we can have sex with them.” 6 Lot went outside to meet them and shut the door behind him 7 and said, “No, my friends. Don’t do this wicked thing. 8 Look, I have two daughters who have never slept with a man. Let me bring them out to you, and you can do what you like with them. But don’t do anything to these men, for they have come under the protection of my roof.” 9 “Get out of our way,” they replied. “This fellow came here as a foreigner, and now he wants to play the judge! We’ll treat you worse than them.” They kept bringing pressure on Lot and moved forward to break down the door. 10 But the men inside reached out and pulled Lot back into the house and shut the door. 11 Then they struck the men who were at the door of the house, young and old, with blindness so that they could not find the door.
- ___________ of Sodom.
One small compromise leads to ________________ one.
Lot thought he could change Sodom but in the end Sodom ___________________ him.
You know you are desensitized when you start turning warning signs into ____________________.
1 John 2:15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.
Are you letting your life be gradually _______________ away?
[Romans 10:12] Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him.
Generosity isn't just an act of _________________; it's an act of _________________.
[1 Timothy 6:17-19] Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. [18] Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. [19] By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.
Giving is not a _________________.
What defines a generous person is that they've _______________ generosity.
[2 Corinthians 9:6-10] Remember this--a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. [7] You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." [8] And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. [9] As the Scriptures say, "They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever." [10] For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.
If you are sowing _________________ everyday the _________________ will come.
[Proverbs 11:24-25] Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything. [25] The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.
If you want to be like _________________ we need to live a _________________ life.
[Ephesians 4:28] If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need.
God wants to move us from being _________________ to being _________________.
Generosity _________________ God's blessings.
[Luke 6:38] Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full--pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back."
Jonah 1:1-4 The Lord gave this message to Jonah son of Amittai: 2 “Get up and go to the great city of Nineveh. Announce my judgment against it because I have seen how wicked its people are.” 3 But Jonah got up and went in the opposite direction to get away from the Lord. He went down to the port of Joppa, where he found a ship leaving for Tarshish. He bought a ticket and went on board, hoping to escape from the Lord by sailing to Tarshish. 4 But the Lord hurled a powerful wind over the sea, causing a violent storm that threatened to break the ship apart.
We serve a God that _____________.
- God will speak to you, but He may tell you to do something you _____________ want to do.
Jonah didn't think the Ninevites deserved God's __________.
We don't obey God because we think we _________ better than Him.
- Whenever God speak you can always find a boat sailing in the ___________ direction.
Jonah was running from what God ____________ him to do.
When you're avoiding God He will create a storm with your ________ on it!
Jonah 1:15 Then the sailors picked Jonah up and threw him into the raging sea, and the storm stopped at once!
- Disobeying God will ___________ bring consequences.
It is better to work _________ God than to try and go ____________ him.
Jonah 3:1-3 Then the Lord spoke to Jonah a second time: 2 “Get up and go to the great city of Nineveh, and deliver the message I have given you.” 3 This time Jonah obeyed the Lord’s command and went to Nineveh, a city so large that it took three days to see it all.
God will often withhold punishment when we _____________.
Jonah 4:1-3 This change of plans greatly upset Jonah, and he became very angry. 2 So he complained to the Lord about it: “Didn’t I say before I left home that you would do this, Lord? That is why I ran away to Tarshish! I knew that you are a merciful and compassionate God, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. You are eager to turn back from destroying people. 3 Just kill me now, Lord! I’d rather be dead than alive if what I predicted will not happen.”
The same God that provided __________ also provided the _______!
Jonah 4:8-10 And as the sun grew hot, God arranged for a scorching east wind to blow on Jonah. The sun beat down on his head until he grew faint and wished to die. “Death is certainly better than living like this!” he exclaimed. 9 Then God said to Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry because the plant died?” “Yes,” Jonah retorted, “even angry enough to die!” 10 Then the Lord said, “You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there. It came quickly and died quickly. 11 But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn’t I feel sorry for such a great city?”
Bible is a collection of ________ books by over ________ authors ________ year span.
Is God's word a ________________________ in your life?
___________________ God's Word.
[Psalm 119:105] Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
You can't ________________________ as a follower of Jesus without being in Scripture.
God ________________________ to us primarily through the Bible.
[Hebrews 5:12] You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God's word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food.
Nothing takes the place of ________________________ reading the Bible.
[Job 23:12] I have not departed from his commands, but have treasured his words more than daily food.
___________________ on God's Word.
[Joshua 1:8] Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.
God defines ____________________ differently than we do.
[Psalm 119:15-16] I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. [16] I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word.
___________________ to God's Word.
Knowing God's Word and not applying it is ________________________.
[Matthew 7:24, 26] "Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. [26] But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn't obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand.
2 Kings 18:1-7 Hezekiah son of Ahaz began to rule over Judah in the third year of King Hoshea’s reign in Israel. 2 He was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-nine years. His mother was Abijah, the daughter of Zechariah. 3 He did what was pleasing in the Lord’s sight, just as his ancestor David had done. 4 He removed the pagan shrines, smashed the sacred pillars, and cut down the Asherah poles. He broke up the bronze serpent that Moses had made, because the people of Israel had been offering sacrifices to it. The bronze serpent was called Nehushtan. 5 Hezekiah trusted in the Lord, the God of Israel. There was no one like him among all the kings of Judah, either before or after his time. 6 He remained faithful to the Lord in everything, and he carefully obeyed all the commands the Lord had given Moses. 7 So the Lord was with him, and Hezekiah was successful in everything he did. He revolted against the king of Assyria and refused to pay him tribute.
Before God's blessing comes __________________.
2 Kings 20:1-2 About that time Hezekiah became deathly ill, and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to visit him. He gave the king this message: “This is what the Lord says: Set your affairs in order, for you are going to die. You will not recover from this illness.”
Turn your back on your _____________ and turn your face to the ________.
Hezekiah's Prayer __________________ the heart of God.
2 Kings 20:13 Hezekiah received the Babylonian envoys and showed them everything in his treasure-houses—the silver, the gold, the spices, and the aromatic oils. He also took them to see his armory and showed them everything in his royal treasuries! There was nothing in his palace or kingdom that Hezekiah did not show them.
God had blessed him but he took __________________ for it.
2 Chronicles 32:25 But Hezekiah did not respond appropriately to the kindness shown him, and he became proud. So the Lord’s anger came against him and against Judah and Jerusalem.
Hezekiah lost God's favor due to __________________.
Proverbs 16:5 The Lord detests the proud; they will surely be punished.
tow`ebah: a __________________ thing, abomination.
Pride is the most __________________ sin.
Pride is anything that draws attention to _______.
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall.
To acknowledge that our pride is sin requires an act of ____________
Obadiah 1:3a The pride of your heart has deceived you...
Pride is so dangerous because pride can ______________.
Worship is what __________________ our spiritual life.
[John 4:23-24] But the time is coming--indeed it's here now--when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. [24] For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth."
We need a __________________ of worship not just an __________________ of worship.
[Romans 12:1 NIV] Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God--this is your true and proper worship.
We worship God by __________________ our lives to Him.
[Hebrews 13:15] Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name.
We can __________________ God in the __________________.
__________________ blocks effective worship.
[Matthew 14:28-33] Then Peter called to him, "Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water." [29] "Yes, come," Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. [30] But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" he shouted. [31] Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. "You have so little faith," Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me?" [32] When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. [33] Then the disciples worshiped him. "You really are the Son of God!" they exclaimed.
Choose __________________ instead of __________________.
We can __________________ even when are walking through __________________.
[Habakkuk 3:17-18] Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, [18] yet I will rejoice in the LORD! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!
He had wealth and wisdom but found it all to be ________________.
Three Things that Contributed to Solomon's Downfall.
- Solomon craved ________________.
Deuteronomy 17:16-17 “The king must not build up a large stable of horses for himself or send his people to Egypt to buy horses, for the Lord has told you, ‘You must never return to Egypt.’ 17 The king must not take many wives for himself, because they will turn his heart away from the Lord. And he must not accumulate large amounts of wealth in silver and gold for himself.
1 Kings 10:28 Solomon’s horses were imported from Egypt and from Cilicia; the king’s traders acquired them from Cilicia at the standard price.
1 Kings 10:14-15; 21 Each year Solomon received about 25 tons of gold. 15 This did not include the additional revenue he received from merchants and traders, all the kings of Arabia, and the governors of the land. 21 All of King Solomon’s drinking cups were solid gold, as were all the utensils in the Palace of the Forest of Lebanon. They were not made of silver, for silver was considered worthless in Solomon’s day!
- Solomon ________________ after many women.
1 Kings 11:1-3 Now King Solomon loved many foreign women. Besides Pharaoh’s daughter, he married women from Moab, Ammon, Edom, Sidon, and from among the Hittites. 2 The Lord had clearly instructed the people of Israel, “You must not marry them, because they will turn your hearts to their gods.” Yet Solomon insisted on loving them anyway. 3 He had 700 wives of royal birth and 300 concubines. And in fact, they did turn his heart away from the Lord.
- Solomon ________________ foreign gods.
1 Kings 11:4-9 In Solomon’s old age, they turned his heart to worship other gods instead of being completely faithful to the Lord his God, as his father, David, had been. 5 Solomon worshiped Ashtoreth, the goddess of the Sidonians, and Molech, the detestable god of the Ammonites. 6 In this way, Solomon did what was evil in the Lord’s sight; he refused to follow the Lord completely, as his father, David, had done. 7 On the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem, he even built a pagan shrine for Chemosh, the detestable god of Moab, and another for Molech, the detestable god of the Ammonites. 8 Solomon built such shrines for all his foreign wives to use for burning incense and sacrificing to their gods. 9 The Lord was very angry with Solomon, for his heart had turned away from the Lord, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice.
Solomon overlooked the fact that disobedience to God brings ________________ consequences.
Ecclesiastes 2:10-11 Anything I wanted, I would take. I denied myself no pleasure. I even found great pleasure in hard work, a reward for all my labors. 11 But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless—like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere.
The world is full of people who are making a ________________ living but living ________________ lives.
Deuteronomy 17:18-20 “When he sits on the throne as king, he must copy for himself this body of instruction on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. 19 He must always keep that copy with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the Lord his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees. 20 This regular reading will prevent him from becoming proud and acting as if he is above his fellow citizens. It will also prevent him from turning away from these commands in the smallest way. And it will ensure that he and his descendants will reign for many generations in Israel.
Important we stay ________________ in God's Word.
[Matthew 6:33 NIV] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
When you put God ______________ He will help you with ___________________ else.
[Revelation 2:1-5 NIV] "To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands. [2] I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. [3] You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. [4] Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. [5] Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.
You can ______________ God and still ______________ put Him first.
[Matthew 10:37-38] "If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. [38] If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine.
Your day-to-day choices will ______________ your ______________ priorities.
Everything else falls into place when God is the first ______________.
Our ______________ may be keeping us from what is important.
[Ecclesiastes 12:1] Don't let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator. Honor him in your youth before you grow old and say, "Life is not pleasant anymore."
Put God as a priority before you get ______________.
God wants to be a priority in your __________________ life!
[Mark 1:35] Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray.
JOY:
______________
______________
______________
Judges 13:5 You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and his hair must never be cut. For he will be dedicated to God as a Nazirite from birth. He will begin to rescue Israel from the Philistines.
Samson was an incredibly _________ man with an incredibly _______ will.
The 3 Attitudes that Make Strong Men WEAK.
- ____________. I ____________ it.
Judges 14:1-3 One day when Samson was in Timnah, one of the Philistine women caught his eye. 2 When he returned home, he told his father and mother, “A young Philistine woman in Timnah caught my eye. I want to marry her. Get her for me.” 3 His father and mother objected. “Isn’t there even one woman in our tribe or among all the Israelites you could marry?” they asked. “Why must you go to the pagan Philistines to find a wife?” But Samson told his father, “Get her for me! She looks good to me.”
- ____________. I can ____________ it.
Judges 14:14-17 So he said: “Out of the one who eats came something to eat; out of the strong came something sweet.” Three days later they were still trying to figure it out. 15 On the fourth day they said to Samson’s wife, “Entice your husband to explain the riddle for us, or we will burn down your father’s house with you in it. Did you invite us to this party just to make us poor?”16 So Samson’s wife came to him in tears and said, “You don’t love me; you hate me! You have given my people a riddle, but you haven’t told me the answer.” “I haven’t even given the answer to my father or mother,” he replied. “Why should I tell you?” 17 So she cried whenever she was with him and kept it up for the rest of the celebration. At last, on the seventh day he told her the answer because she was tormenting him with her nagging. Then she explained the riddle to the young men. 18 So before sunset of the seventh day, the men of the town came to Samson with their answer: “What is sweeter than honey? What is stronger than a lion?” Samson replied, “If you hadn’t plowed with my heifer, you wouldn’t have solved my riddle!”
- ____________. I've been ____________.
Judges 15:16 (NIV) Then Samson said, "With a donkey's jawbone I have made donkeys of them. With a donkey's jawbone I have killed a thousand men."
Judges 16:15-17 Then Delilah pouted, “How can you tell me, ‘I love you,’ when you don’t share your secrets with me? You’ve made fun of me three times now, and you still haven’t told me what makes you so strong!” 16 She tormented him with her nagging day after day until he was sick to death of it. 17 Finally, Samson shared his secret with her. “My hair has never been cut,” he confessed, “for I was dedicated to God as a Nazirite from birth. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as anyone else.”
Judges 16:20-21 Then she cried out, “Samson! The Philistines have come to capture you!” When he woke up, he thought, “I will do as before and shake myself free.” But he didn’t realize the Lord had left him. 21 So the Philistines captured him and gouged out his eyes. They took him to Gaza, where he was bound with bronze chains and forced to grind grain in the prison.
Samson didn't ruin his life all at _________, he did it one _______ at a time.
Judges 16:22 But before long, his hair began to grow back.
Our ___________ loves to make strong men weak but our _______ loves to make weak men strong.
Judges 16:28 Then Samson prayed to the Lord, “Sovereign Lord, remember me again. O God, please strengthen me just one more time. With one blow let me pay back the Philistines for the loss of my two eyes.”
[Proverbs 19:21] You can make many plans, but the LORD's purpose will prevail.
Life's detours are part of a ___________________ plan.
[Ephesians 3:20] Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.
Our ___________________ is limited, but God's isn't.
[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."
God is ___________________ in every ___________________ situation.
[Philippians 3:13-14] No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, [14] I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
God is in ___________________ even when things seem unpredictable.
[2 Corinthians 2:11] so that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes.
The New Year may be unpredictable, but our God is ___________________.
[Psalm 115:3] Our God is in the heavens, and he does as he wishes.
God is our ___________________ in life's unexpected situations.
[Isaiah 41:10] Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Hosea 1:2-3 When the Lord first began speaking to Israel through Hosea, he said to him, “Go and marry a prostitute, so that some of her children will be conceived in prostitution. This will illustrate how Israel has acted like a prostitute by turning against the Lord and worshiping other gods.” 3 So Hosea married Gomer, the daughter of Diblaim, and she became pregnant and gave Hosea a son.
Hosea's love was not _____________!
Hosea 3:1-2 Then the Lord said to me, “Go and love your wife again, even though she commits adultery with another lover. This will illustrate that the Lord still loves Israel, even though the people have turned to other gods and love to worship them.” 2 So I bought her back for fifteen pieces of silver and five bushels of barley and a measure of wine.
Hosea's love for his wife wasn't ____________ or _____________.
Romans 5:6-8 When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. 7 Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. 8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
There is ___________ you can do to _______ more of God's love.
Only Christianity claims God's love is __________________.
Romans 8:38-39 And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. 39 No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
God's love for you it isn't based on your ________________.
God loves us because he ____________ to love us.
I believe God loves me even if I _________ _________ it!
Ephesians 3:18-19 And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. 19 May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.
John 3:16-17 (NIV) For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 13:34-35 So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. 35 Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
Our response to God's love is to love _____ and to love ________.
[Isaiah 60:1-3] "Arise, Jerusalem! Let your light shine for all to see. For the glory of the LORD rises to shine on you. [2] Darkness as black as night covers all the nations of the earth, but the glory of the LORD rises and appears over you. [3] All nations will come to your light; mighty kings will come to see your radiance.
[John 1:4-5] The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.
[Luke 1:78-79] Because of God's tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, [79] to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace."
[Ephesians 5:8] For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!
We all have a deep longing of what home ___________ be.
Luke 2:10-11 but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. 11 The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!
Jesus brings joy for __________ people.
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.
Jesus came to make a _________ for us to come home.
Luke 15:17-19 “When he finally came to his senses, he said to himself, ‘At home even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here I am dying of hunger! 18 I will go home to my father and say, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, 19 and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. Please take me on as a hired servant.”’
Jesus opens His arms wide and ________________ us to come home to the Father.
What God has waiting for you is ______________ than what you have now.
Matthew 11:28 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
Jesus _________________ you just as you are.
Hope has a way of turning up when we need it the ________________.
[Matthew 4:16] the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light. And for those who lived in the land where death casts its shadow, a light has shined."
Hope often shows up when we ________________ ________________ it.
We _____________ _________ because we lose hope.
[Psalm 39:7] And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in you.
Lasting hope is only found in ________________.
[1 Timothy 1:1] This letter is from Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus, appointed by the command of God our Savior and Christ Jesus, who gives us hope.
Real hope is ________________ when things seem ________________.
[Colossians 1:27 NIV] To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
Hope is the certainty we have that God is __________.
[Psalm 20:7 NIV] Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
God will give us hope in middle of ________________.
[Matthew 11:28] Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
You lose hope when you put it in the _______________ places.
[Hebrews 10:23] Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.
1 John 3:1-3 See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know him. 2 Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is. 3 And all who have this eager expectation will keep themselves pure, just as he is pure.
We cannot even _______________ what we will be.
Romans 8:14-17 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. 15 So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” 16 For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. 17 And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.
___________ is an informal Aramaic term for daddy denoting tenderness and a relationship free from fear and anxiety.
The Spirit of fear ____ ______ from God.
2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
Hebrews 1:2 And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son. God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son he created the universe.
John 16:23 At that time you won’t need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you use my name.
Luke 15:20 “So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.
Romans 10:8-9 In fact, it says, “The message is very close at hand; it is on your lips and in your heart.” And that message is the very message about faith that we preach: 9 If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Romans 8:1 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.
[Isaiah 9:6-7] For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. [7] His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven's Armies will make this happen!
The Messiah would bring peace that would _____________ ______________.
[Luke 2:13-14] Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others--the armies of heaven--praising God and saying, [14] "Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased."
________________ (peace) is about having peace with God.
Mark 4:38-40 ESV But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” 39 And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?”
Jesus gives peace in the ________________ of the storm, not just ________________ it.
[Ephesians 2:17-18] He brought this Good News of peace to you Gentiles who were far away from him, and peace to the Jews who were near. [18] Now all of us can come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us.
Peace isn't the absence of ________________.
Jesus is the only one who can bring peace between _______ and ________________.
[Colossians 3:15] And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.
God wants us to ________________ His peace to a ________________ world.
[John 14:27] "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.
Jesus give us the peace ________________ God and gives us peace ________________ God.
[Isaiah 53:3-5] He was despised and rejected--a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care. [4] Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins! [5] But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed.
The Messiah would come and _______________ for us.
[John 19:6-7] When they saw him, the leading priests and Temple guards began shouting, "Crucify him! Crucify him!" "Take him yourselves and crucify him," Pilate said. "I find him not guilty." [7] The Jewish leaders replied, "By our law he ought to die because he called himself the Son of God."
Even _______________ of Jesus were unknowingly fulfilling prophecy.
[Psalm 22:16-18] My enemies surround me like a pack of dogs; an evil gang closes in on me. They have pierced my hands and feet. [17] I can count all my bones. My enemies stare at me and gloat. [18] They divide my garments among themselves and throw dice for my clothing.
Jesus was willing to take _______________ _______________ on our behalf.
[John 19:23-24] When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they divided his clothes among the four of them. They also took his robe, but it was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. [24] So they said, "Rather than tearing it apart, let's throw dice for it." This fulfilled the Scripture that says, "They divided my garments among themselves and threw dice for my clothing." So that is what they did.
Only Jesus could predict his own _______________.
[Matthew 20:18-19] "Listen," he said, "we're going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die. [19] Then they will hand him over to the Romans to be mocked, flogged with a whip, and crucified.
When Jesus said, “It is _______________,” the price for your _______________ was paid.
[Proverbs 18:10] The name of the LORD (YHWH) is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe.
YHWH: Behold the ______________. Behold the _____________.
Jesus death was not some tragic _______________, It was a deliberate act of _______________.
[Matthew 20:19b] But on the third day he will be raised from the dead.
With Christ, ___ _______ an overcomer!
Romans 8:31-32 (NIV) If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Romans 8:35-37 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
Hyper: _________ than. Beyond.
Nikaō: to be _______________. Conquer. Overcome.
Hypernikaō: to gain an _______________ victory! More than conqueror.
To be an overcomer you need something to _______________.
John 16:33 Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
There's no such thing as an __________________ Christian.
Revelation 12:11 (NASB) And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death.
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We overcome by the ___________ of the Lamb.
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We overcome by the ___________ of our testimony.
Need to have an attitude of ____________.
Faith filled attitudes lead to faith filled _____________.
Through Christ you are a __________ and not a ___________!
1 John 5:4-5 For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith. 5 And who can win this battle against the world? Only those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God.
We fight with ______________ weapons.
2 Corinthians 10:3-4 We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do. 4 We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments.
1 John 4:4 But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.
God gives us _________________ to face our strongholds.
Psalm 19:1 The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
The _________ thing we learn about God is that He is creative.
Ephesians 2:1-5 Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. 2 You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. 3 All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature. By our very nature we were subject to God’s anger, just like everyone else. 4 But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, 5 that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!)
Without Christ there is something ____________ with you.
With Christ you are God's ____________________.
Ephesians 2:8-10 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. 9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. 10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
“I know I'm somebody 'cause God don't make no __________”
We aren't saved _______ doing good things we are saved to _______ good things.
I am God's masterpiece made ________ in Jesus to do what God _____________ me to do!
Your value isn't based on ________ you are its based on ____________ you are.
When you criticize _______________ you are criticizing gods masterpiece.
Romans 8:28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
If we want the masters _________ we first need to know we are his masterpiece.
The world's problems are caused by __________, not by __________.
In our own power, we cannot be _____________ _________________.
[Isaiah 7:14] All right then, the Lord himself will give you the sign. Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means 'God is with us').
God wants to be _____________ you.
[Matthew 1:18] This is how Jesus the Messiah was born. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. But before the marriage took place, while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit.
All religions are based on an _____________ to _____________ our way to God.
[Isaiah 41:10] Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
God has already done ___________________ needed for us to have a relationship with Him.
Instead of following _____________ we follow _____________.
[Zephaniah 3:17] For the LORD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs."
God’s ultimate gift is His __________________.
[Matthew 28:20b] And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
This is the last sermon from Thomaston Lanes. Editors Note: This is a recovered sermon from a CD recording. Due to technical issues, I had to cut stuff. I did my best to keep the essense of Judah's message. So if you get the "Did I just miss something?" feeling, I'm sorry. 2 Corinthians 5:17-20 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
________________________________________________
If you're in Christ you're a _______ person.
18 And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. 19 For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. 20 So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!”
An ambassador cannot be _________________ in, they're ____________________ by the ruler of the country.
An ambassador __________ in one country but represents another.
Philippians 3:20 But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior.
I am an ambassador sent by _______ to the world around ______.
- You Were _______________ By God.
John 15:16-17 You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. 17 This is my command: Love each other.
If God ______________ of me it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks.
- You don't represent __________, you represent God
John 6:38 For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do my own will.
If ________________ is different about us then we are doing it wrong.
I may look like I'm alone but I have the in the ___________ of an entire Kingdom behind me
I am a Christian that has been filled with the _________ ___________ that raised Jesus from the dead!
[Malachi 3:1] "Look! I am sending my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. Then the Lord you are seeking will suddenly come to his Temple. The messenger of the covenant, whom you look for so eagerly, is surely coming," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies.
Expect to _________________ God in the unexpected.
[Isaiah 40:3-5 NIV] A voice of one calling: "In the wilderness prepare the way for the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. [4] Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. [5] And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken."
God often speaks through the _________________.
[Matthew 3:1-3] In those days John the Baptist came to the Judean wilderness and began preaching. His message was, [2] "Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near." [3] The prophet Isaiah was speaking about John when he said, "He is a voice shouting in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the LORD's coming! Clear the road for him!'"
True change begins with a _________________.
God _________________ before he _______________.
[Luke 3:15-16] Everyone was expecting the Messiah to come soon, and they were eager to know whether John might be the Messiah. [16] John answered their questions by saying, "I baptize you with water; but someone is coming soon who is greater than I am--so much greater that I'm not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
Humility comes before _________________.
[Proverbs 11:2] Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
The unpredictable things invite us to _________________ God _________________.
Mark 10:43-45 [NIV] Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Don't settle for being rich when Jesus wants you to be _______.
Mark 6:34 Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.
In a world where it's easy to get complacent Jesus has _____________________.
A true hero is simply someone who ____________.
John 13:12-17 [NIV] When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. 13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
When we take what we have and turn it outwards toward others, we are choosing to make an ______________________.
You will not see and experience _______ the rewards of serving immediately. Many things can make you feel rich quickly, but serving will make you rich permanently…and ______________.
How we live and ____________ in this short life affects the rest of our eternity…and the eternity of _____________.
Proverbs 3:27-28 Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. 28 Do not say to your neighbor, “Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you”—when you already have it with you.
Matthew 9:37-38 He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. 38 So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.”
We should use our gifts to show love to ____________ and ____________ them closer to God.
[Ephesians 4:11-12] Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. [12] Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.
Teachers have the ability to _________________ God's Word in a _________________ way.
[1 Corinthians 8:1c-2] But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church. [2] Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn't really know very much.
Don't try to impress people with your ___________________.
Always _________________ to learn more about the _________________.
[James 1:22-23] But don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. [23] For if you listen to the word and don't obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror.
Teachers have a desire to inspire _________________ and life _________________.
[2 Timothy 2:15] Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.
In order to be a teacher, you have to be a _________________.
[2 Timothy 4:2] Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.
_________ doesn't make you richer, __________________ do.
Ecclesiastes 4:7-12 I observed yet another example of something meaningless under the sun. 8 This is the case of a man who is all alone, without a child or a brother, yet who works hard to gain as much wealth as he can. But then he asks himself, “Who am I working for? Why am I giving up so much pleasure now?” It is all so meaningless and depressing. 9 Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. 10 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. 11 Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? 12 A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
There are no ________________________ christians.
“A shared joy is a _____________ joy; shared sorrow is a ____________ sorrow.”
We don't need just a _________________ relationship with God we need a _______________ relationship with God.
Three Kinds of Friends David Had (That We Need):
- _____________. The __________________ Friend.
Hebrews 10:25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.
- _____________. The __________________ Friend.
Proverbs 18:24 There are "friends" who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.
- _____________. The __________________ Friend.
Proverbs 27:6 Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy.
God will often speak to you through the _____________ of _____________.
James 1:23 For if you just listen and don't obey, it is like looking at your face in a mirror but doing nothing to improve your appearance.
You need to follow Jesus ________ yourself but you can't follow him ________ yourself.
Acts 2:46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity
The most radical expression of love Jesus showed was around ________________________________________.
Our gifts should be used to _______________ people up rather than _______________ people down.
[Ephesians 4:11-12] Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. [12] Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.
You can give a _______________ without having the gift of pastor.
A pastor is like a _______________ of people.
A pastor truly _______________ for the people around them.
[1 Peter 5:2] Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly--not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God.
Pastors love to _______________ to others.
[Proverbs 11:25] The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.
There's a big difference between _______________ to help and _______________ helping.
[1 Thessalonians 5:11] So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.
An encourager loves to give _______________ to others.
[Galatians 6:2] Share each other's burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.
Sometimes we need to be willing to _______________ without trying to _______________ everything.
Keeping a ___________________ journal for 5 minutes a day has the same effect as ___________________ your income.
Ecclesiastes 5:10 Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness!
It's not natural to be ____________________ because we were born _____________________.
Attitudes toward Generosity in the Good Samaritan:
Robbers. What's yours is mine and I'm going to __________ it.
Proverbs 28:22 Greedy people try to get rich quick but don’t realize they’re headed for poverty.
Religious. What's mine is mine and I'm gonna __________ it.
Philippians 2:3-4 Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.
Generous. What's mine is yours and I'm going to __________ it.
Greatest gift a person can have is being able to __________________ someone else.
Three Levels of Generosity:
-
______________ Generosity. I will give what I can ____________.
-
______________ Generosity. I will give what I ______________.
Malachi 3:10-11 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! 11 Your crops will be abundant, for I will guard them from insects and disease. Your grapes will not fall from the vine before they are ripe,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.
Tithing is not about ___________________ God it's about __________________ Him as first in our life.
- ______________ Generosity. I will give until it ______________.
2 Corinthians 8:3-5 For I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford, but far more. And they did it of their own free will. 4 They begged us again and again for the privilege of sharing in the gift for the believers in Jerusalem.
Instead of trying to increase our standard of ______________ we should be trying to increase our standard of ______________.
2 Corinthians 9:6-8 Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.
In order to live a _________ life you must live a _____________ life.
Gifts are to be used in love, to _______________ people, and _______________ them to Jesus.
[Ephesians 4:11-12] Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. [12] Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.
Our job is to _________________ and _________________ our gifts.
[Romans 10:13-15] For "Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved." [14] But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? [15] And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, "How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!"
You are God’s _______________ to reach world.
Evangelism is simply __________________ people to __________________ Jesus.
[Matthew 28:19-20] Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. [20] Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
God wants us to make _______________ not _______________.
Evangelism must start with _______________.
[1 Corinthians 3:7-8] It's not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What's important is that God makes the seed grow. [8] The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work.
People get _________ but enjoy it _________.
Proverbs 14:30 A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.
3 Areas of Discontentment:
- MATERIAL discontentment
- RELATIONAL discontentment.
- SITUATIONAL discontentment.
We are discontent because we expect ______________ to fill a void only ______________ can fill.
James 3:14-16 But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don’t cover up the truth with boasting and lying. 15 For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. 16 For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind.
Philippians 4:11-13Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. 12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. 13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
Until Christ is all you ______________ you won't realize that Christ is all you ______________.
"Contentment makes poor men rich; discontentment makes rich men poor." - Benjamin Franklin.
Hebrews 13:5 (NIV) Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."
Discontentment is saying that things are more ______________ than God
Psalm 23:1 A psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need.
1 Timothy 6:6-9 Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. 7 After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 8 So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content. 9 But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction.
The secret of contentment is being ___________________ with Christ.
[Ephesians 4:11-16] Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. [12] Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. [13] This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. [14] Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. [15] Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. [16] He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.
God gave gifts to the church so that we can ________ each other, __________ each other, _________ each other, __________ each other and __________each other.
A prophet serves to _______________ to the voice of God and _______________ on the message
[1 Corinthians 14:1-4 ESV] Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy. [2] For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit. [3] On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation. [4] The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church.
[1 Corinthians 14:12 NIV] So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church.
Natural Evidence of Prophetic gifts:
1) Ability to _____________
2) Ability to _____________
3) Ability to _____________
Not everyone who has a ___________ gift has the ______________ gift.
Your calling as a prophet is to bring a message, it is up to the _____________to take the message and apply it.
Being _____________ is the only reliable way to get rich quick.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
Showing gratitude is not a sign of ________________.
The more ______________ we feel the less grateful we will be.
Romans 1:20-22 For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. 21 Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. 22 Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools.
In order to be grateful we need to ________________ the good around us and recognize that it is a __________ from God.
James 1:16-17 So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. 17 Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.
Gratitude attracts more _________________.
Proverbs 10:22 The blessing of the Lord makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.
Am I counting my _______________ or my _______________?
Studies show that keeping a gratitude _____________ for five minutes each day has the same effect on your well-being as ____________________ your income
Psalm 50:14 Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God, and keep the vows you made to the Most High.
It is not the ______________ people who are grateful. It is the ___________________ people who are happy.
Ephesians 5:20 And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
[1 Corinthians 12:4-7] There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. [5] There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. [6] God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. [7] A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.
Our gifts should be used in _______________ point people to _______________.
[1 Corinthians 13:1-3] If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn't love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. [2] If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God's secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn't love others, I would be nothing. [3] If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn't love others, I would have gained nothing.
Our gifts are ______________________ if we use them without love.
[Ephesians 4:11-12] Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. [12] Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.
Apostles are _______________ sent out to spread the message of Jesus.
[Luke 6:13] At daybreak he called together all of his disciples and chose twelve of them to be apostles.
No one can ____________________ the people God has placed in your life better than you can.
Apostles are not satisfied with what has ________________ in the _______________.
[Acts 15:36-39] After some time Paul said to Barnabas, “Let’s go back and visit each city where we previously preached the word of the Lord, to see how the new believers are doing.” [37] Barnabas agreed and wanted to take along John Mark. [38] But Paul disagreed strongly, since John Mark had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in their work. [39] Their disagreement was so sharp that they separated. Barnabas took John Mark with him and sailed for Cyprus.
Look for the _______________-ideas and not just the _______________-ideas.
[Proverbs 25:14] A person who promises a gift but doesn’t give it is like clouds and wind that bring no rain.
When Jesus died it looked like everything he said was an _____________ _______________.
[Matthew 27:39-44] The people passing by shouted abuse, shaking their heads in mockery. [40] “Look at you now!” they yelled at him. “You said you were going to destroy the Temple and rebuild it in three days. Well then, if you are the Son of God, save yourself and come down from the cross!” [41] The leading priests, the teachers of religious law, and the elders also mocked Jesus. [42] “He saved others,” they scoffed, “but he can’t save himself! So he is the King of Israel, is he? Let him come down from the cross right now, and we will believe in him! [43] He trusted God, so let God rescue him now if he wants him! For he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” [44] Even the revolutionaries who were crucified with him ridiculed him in the same way.
Instead of promises that are _____________, God gave us something empty that is full of ___________________.
The Empty _____________
The empty cross is a reminder that we have been _______________.
[Romans 6:10-11] When he died, he died once to break the power of sin. But now that he lives, he lives for the glory of God. [11 ]So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus.
The Empty _____________
[John 20:1-9] Early on Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. [2] She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, “They have taken the Lord’s body out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!” [3] Peter and the other disciple
started out for the tomb. [4] They were both running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. [5] He stooped and looked in and saw the linen wrappings lying there, but he didn’t go in. [6] Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, [7] while the cloth that had covered Jesus’ head was folded up and lying apart from the other wrappings. [8] Then the disciple who had reached the tomb first also went in, and he saw and believed— [9] for until then they still hadn’t understood the Scriptures that said Jesus must rise from the dead.
The resurrection proved that Jesus sacrifice ___________________.
The empty tomb give us __________________ and a promise of ______________________ life.
The cross couldn't __________ him, the tomb couldn't ____________
him, the burial wrappings couldn't ______________ him!
[Romans 8:11] The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.
God takes our emptiness and _______________ it with his promises.
[John 11:25] Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.
[1 Corinthians 12:4-7] There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. [5] There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. [6] God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. [7] A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.
God has given us _______________ so that we can _______________ each other.
God has given us all a _______________.
[2 Timothy 4:2a] Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not.
God wants you to ____________ up and ____________ up.
[Acts 1:8] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere--in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
Spiritual gifts will always point to _______________.
A spiritual gift is a ________________________ between us and God.
[2 Timothy 1:6] This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you.
God gives you everything you _______________ to do what He has _______________ you to do.
Ephesians 4:11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. [12]Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.
3 Questions to Help your Discover your Gift
Do you _______________ it?
Do others _______________ it?
Do you actually _______________ it?
[Matthew 16:13-18] When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” [14] “Well,” they replied, “some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.” [15] Then he asked them, “But who do you say I am?” [16] Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” [17] Jesus replied, “You are blessed, Simon son of John, because my Father in heaven has revealed this to you. You did not learn this from any human being. [18] Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it.
Church (Greek: ekklesia): a _______________ of citizens called out from their homes into some public place, an assembly or congregation.
Church (English): _______________ of the Lord. A building set apart as sacred.
Jesus came to build a ______________ not a ______________!
[Matthew 28:18-20] Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. [19] Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. [20] Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
You _____________ him; God _____________ him; We've _____________ him; Say you're _____________.
Acts 2:47 And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.
[Ephesians 5:31-32] As the Scriptures say, “A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.” [32] This is a great mystery, but it is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one.
The Church is the ____________ of Christ.
[Luke 19:10] For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
If Jesus came to seek and save the lost shouldn't that also be the MISSION of the church?
ThriveChurch's mission: To make ____________ devoted followers of Christ.
[Ephesians 1:22-23] God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. [23] And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself.
The church is God's ____________...there is no ____________.
[Psalm 23:1-6 ESV] The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. [2] He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. [3] He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. [4] Even 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. [5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. [6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Today may not be ______________ but God is always ______________.
[Psalm 27:11-13] Teach me how to live, O LORD. Lead me along the right path, for my enemies are waiting for me. [12] Do not let me fall into their hands. For they accuse me of things I've never done; with every breath they threaten me with violence. [13] Yet I am confident I will see the LORD's goodness while I am here in the land of the living.
Sometimes God's goodness takes _________________ than we think.
[Romans 8:28] And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Even if we ___________ ___________ God's goodness, He is still good.
[Lamentations 3:22-23] The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. [23] Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.
There is nothing that we do can _________________ or _________________ God's love.
[1 Chronicles 16:34 NKJV] Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.
God's goodness and mercy doesn't _________________ in uncertain times.
[John 14:2-3 NKJV] "In My Father's house are many mansions; if [it were] not [so], I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. [3] "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, [there] you may be also.
Faith (Greek: pistis): conviction of the ________________ of anything; belief.
[Hebrews 11:1 NCV] Faith means being sure of the things we hope for and knowing that something is real even if we do not see it.
___________ is the most __________________ force known to man.
Every great accomplishment began with __________________ who had faith that it could happen.
[Matthew 17:20] “You don’t have enough faith,” Jesus told them. “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.”
Mountains are only moved by people who _______________ it's possible.
When we believe something is __________________ we look for a way until we find one.
[2 Corinthians 5:7 NIV] For we live by faith, not by sight.
A person who knows they’re going to ________ plays differently from someone who thinks they’re going to ______________.
We always look for ____________ to support what we ______________- to be true.
Key to happy family: Couples that ________________ the best ____________ the best.
When Jesus died, those closest to him believe he was _________.
They believed he ______________ the Messiah.
Jesus' closest followers _____________ believe in the end.
The Message They Preached:
You _____________ him; God _____________ him; We've _____________ him; Say you're _____________.
[Acts 17:31] For he has set a day for judging the world with justice by the man he has appointed, and he proved to everyone who this is by raising him from the dead.”
Fundamental question we face: Who is _____________?
The early church wasn't based on ancient _____________ it was based on the belief that Jesus __________ from the dead
[Hebrews 11:6] And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
[Psalm 23:1-6 ESV] The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. [2] He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. [3] He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. [4] Even 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. [5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. [6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Even though the _______________ is present God is still at _______________.
[John 10:10-11] The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. [11] "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep.
Even in the middle of danger God is _______________ for His people.
God is _______________ us to be at His ___________.
God has _______________ us and ________________ us to accomplish His work.
[Psalm 37:25] Once I was young, and now I am old. Yet I have never seen the godly abandoned or their children begging for bread.
God provides ______________________ for His family.
[Luke 14:21-23] "The servant returned and told his master what they had said. His master was furious and said, 'Go quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and invite the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame.' [22] After the servant had done this, he reported, 'There is still room for more.' [23] So his master said, 'Go out into the country lanes and behind the hedges and urge anyone you find to come, so that the house will be full.
There is _______________ for _______________.
Ways that we _________________ with God:
God if you will...I promise I will ____________________!
God if you will...I promise I'll ____________________!
Even when it works out in our favor we don't _______________ ____________________.
When we bargain with God we make 2 assumptions:
There is a God and he _________________ about you.
You have something that God _________________.
God isn't interested in getting something _____________ you, He wants something _____________ you.
GRACE (Greek: charis): ____________________ favor.
G_________ R_________ A________ C_________ E_________
Mercy _______________ us, Grace makes us _____________.
[Ephesians 2:1-4] Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. 2 You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. 3 All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature. By our very nature we were subject to God’s anger, just like everyone else. 4 But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, 5 that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!
God chose to save you because He ____________________ to.
[Ephesians 2:8-9] God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. 9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.
Our part is _____________, God's part is _____________.
Will we depend on ________ goodness or ___________ grace?
[1 John 4:19] We love each other because he loved us first.
All the _______ are a response to what God has already ___________.
[2 Corinthians 12:9] 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 of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
[2 Timothy 1:9] For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time—to show us his grace through Christ Jesus.
[Psalm 23:1-6 ESV] The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. [2] He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. [3] He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. [4] Even 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. [5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. [6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
There __________ be always be valleys in __________.
We can find comfort in the fact that we are never _____________________.
You can be _____________________ in the valley.
[Psalm 46:1 ESV] God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
A _____________________ only momentarily blocks the _____________________.
[1 Corinthians 15:55-56] O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?" [56] For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power.
God ___________ __________ the valleys.
[Romans 8:31] What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?
The rod and staff shows God's ____________________ and _____________________.
[Deuteronomy 31:6] So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you."
Many religions offer a solution to try to pay for past sin, but only one person offered ___________________ as the solution.
John 14:6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.
Jesus didn't just ___________ the solution, he __________ the solution!
Just being “good” is trying to fix an ___________________ problem with an ___________________ solution.
John 1:26-27; 29 John told them, “I baptize with water, but right here in the crowd is someone you do not recognize. 27 Though his ministry follows mine, I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandal.” 29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
Takes Away (Greek: airo). To take away from another & __________________ off.
1 Peter 2:24 He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds you are healed.
You don't have to forgive ___________________ for God to ___________________ you.
1 John 1:7 But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.
The things that once brought us shame, guilt and regret can now remind us of God's ___________________, ___________________, and ___________________.
Romans 8:1 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.
The Devil is the accuser but the Judge finds you ___________________.
Any guilt we feel after we have been forgiven is _________-___________________.
[Psalm 23:1-6 ESV] The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. [2] He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. [3] He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. [4] Even 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. [5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. [6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
We have a Shepherd who promises to ________________ and ________________ us.
[Psalm 23:3] He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.
God's purpose isn't to ________________ you but to restore you.
We restore things that have ________________.
God knows our ________________ and understands our ________________.
[Isaiah 40:30-31 ESV] Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; [31] but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Our Shepherd knows the way ________________ and guides us in right direction.
[Isaiah 53:6a] All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God's paths to follow our own.
God will not ________________ you.
God restores us not so __________ look good but so __________ looks good.
[Psalm 34:2-3] I will boast only in the LORD; let all who are helpless take heart. [3] Come, let us tell of the LORD's greatness; let us exalt his name together.
No one likes ______________ unless they create them.
3 Models of Rules:
• _____________ rules
• _____________ rules
• _________________ _________________ rules
_________________ tends to focus on rules over relationship.
[Exodus 20:1-2] Then God gave the people all these instructions: [2] “I am the Lord your God,
who rescued you from the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery.
The 10 Commandments were a ____________________ of, not a condition of, Israel's
relationship with God.
[John 1:12] But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become
children of God.
Anything God requires is _______________ of His love for you.
[Matthew 22:34-40] But when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees with
his reply, they met together to question him again. [35] One of them, an expert in religious law,
tried to trap him with this question: [36] “Teacher, which is the most important commandment in
the law of Moses?” [37] Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all
your soul, and all your mind.’ [38] This is the first and greatest commandment. [39] A second is
equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ [40] The entire law and all the demands of
the prophets are based on these two commandments.”
He's saying all the law and prophets hang on ______________.
If we are ________________ God and people there becomes no reason for rules.
Rules without relationship becomes _______________.
Jesus' Rule Book:
-
Love _____________
-
Love _____________
[John 13:34-35] So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I
have loved you, you should love each other. [35] Your love for one another will prove to the
world that you are my disciples.”
_____________ don't make you right with God. _____________ makes us right with God.
[Psalm 23:1-6 ESV] The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. [2] He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. [3] He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. [4] Even 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. [5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. [6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
God won’t always give us everything we _______________, but He will always give us what we ______________.
A Good Shepherd ___________________ for the needs of the sheep.
[Matthew 6:31-34] "So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' [32] These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. [33] Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. [34] "So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today.
We don't have to ______________ when the Good Shepherd is leading us.
God will provide you with enough for __________________.
[Philippians 4:11-13] Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. [12] I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. [13] For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
With Jesus as my Shepherd I can be __________________.
Sometimes God has to force us to ______________ down and ______________.
[Matthew 11:28] Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
[Genesis 12:1-2] The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you. [2] I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others.
I will make you into a ___________ ______________.
I will bless you and make you ______________.
You will be a ________________ to others.
[Genesis 15:4-6] Then the Lord said to him, “No, your servant will not be your heir, for you will have a son of your own who will be your heir.” [5] Then the Lord took Abram outside and said to him, “Look up into the sky and count the stars if you can. That’s how many descendants you will have!” [6] And Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith.
3 Different Views of How to Be Righteous:
Jews: ____________________
Muslims: ____________________
Christian: ____________________
Faith is trusting that ____________________ will happen in God's timing.
[Romans 4:1-3] Abraham was, humanly speaking, the founder of our Jewish nation. What did he discover about being made right with God? [2] If his good deeds had made him acceptable to God, he would have had something to boast about. But that was not God’s way. [3] For the Scriptures tell us, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.”
[Romans 4:20-22] Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. [21] He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises. [22] And because of Abraham’s faith, God counted him as righteous.
________________ God results in being made right with Him.
Hebrews 11:6 And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
A relationship with God starts simply with _____________
Abraham chose to believe in __________ of the consequences.
[Romans 10:9-10] If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.
________________ is what makes us right with God.
[Mark 9:24] The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!”
[Psalm 23:1-6 ESV] The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. [2] He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. [3] He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. [4] Even 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. [5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. [6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
A Good ________________ takes care of their flock.
[1 Samuel 17:34-35] But David persisted. "I have been taking care of my father's sheep and goats," he said. "When a lion or a bear comes to steal a lamb from the flock, [35] I go after it with a club and rescue the lamb from its mouth. If the animal turns on me, I catch it by the jaw and club it to death.
God is ________________ ___________ in our life.
[1 Peter 1:18-19] For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And the ransom he paid was not mere gold or silver. [19] It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God.
Jesus paid a ______________ ______________ so He can be your Shepherd.
[John 10:10-15] The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. [11] "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. [12] A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don't belong to him and he isn't their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. [13] The hired hand runs away because he's working only for the money and doesn't really care about the sheep. [14] "I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, [15] just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep.
Sheep ________________ when they have a Good Shepherd.
[Matthew 9:36] When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
God doesn't ____________ those who want to _____________ their own lives.
[John 10:27-29] My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. [28] I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, [29] for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father's hand.
Our Shepherd is so ________________ that He comes after us when we get ________________!
-Sometimes we make “mistakes” on _________________!
-Sometimes we ____________ out our “mistakes!”
-We make our “mistakes” ___________ and __________!
[1 John 1:8-10] If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.
Sin ____________________ relationships.
[Romans 3:23] For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.
A sinner is someone who _________ better and does it anyway.
Jesus' purpose in talking about sin was ___________________, not ___________________.
[Matthew 5:20-22; 27-28] “But I warn you—unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven! [21] “You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’ [22] But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell. [27] “You have heard the commandment that says, ‘You must not commit adultery.’ [28] But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Jesus came for the ___________________ people.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.
John 8:10-11 Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?” 11 “No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.”
Acknowledging our sin is the first step towards _____________.
John 3:16-17 (NIV) For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
I need to acknowledge the fact that I have ________________.
Proverbs 28:13 People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.
1 John 1:9 But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.
Doubt can either __________________ our faith or __________________ our faith.
[John 20:24-29] One of the twelve disciples, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), was not with the others when Jesus came. [25] They told him, "We have seen the Lord!" But he replied, "I won't believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side." [26] Eight days later the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. The doors were locked; but suddenly, as before, Jesus was standing among them. "Peace be with you," he said. [27] Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don't be faithless any longer. Believe!" [28] "My Lord and my God!" Thomas exclaimed. [29] Then Jesus told him, "You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me."
There's nothing wrong with looking for ________________.
[John 14:1-6] "Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. [2] There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? [3] When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. [4] And you know the way to where I am going." [5] "No, we don't know, Lord," Thomas said. "We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?" [6] Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.
God invites us to bring our __________________ to Him.
[John 11:7-16] Finally, he said to his disciples, "Let's go back to Judea." [8] But his disciples objected. "Rabbi," they said, "only a few days ago the people in Judea were trying to stone you. Are you going there again?" [9] Jesus replied, "There are twelve hours of daylight every day. During the day people can walk safely. They can see because they have the light of this world. [10] But at night there is danger of stumbling because they have no light." [11] Then he said, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but now I will go and wake him up." [12] The disciples said, "Lord, if he is sleeping, he will soon get better!" [13] They thought Jesus meant Lazarus was simply sleeping, but Jesus meant Lazarus had died. [14] So he told them plainly, "Lazarus is dead. [15] And for your sakes, I'm glad I wasn't there, for now you will really believe. Come, let's go see him." [16] Thomas, nicknamed the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, "Let's go, too--and die with Jesus."
Jesus __________________ us in our __________________ and questions.
Doubt doesn't have to __________________ your life.
“The ______________ says” is not an adequate starting or returning point for most people.
Paul knew what he knew because of ____________ he knew not because of what he read.
[Acts 17:16-34] While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. [17] So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there. [18] A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to debate with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection. [19] Then they took him and brought him to a meeting of the Areopagus, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? [20] You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we would like to know what they mean.” [21] (All the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.) [22] Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. [23] For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: to an unknown god. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you. [24] “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. [25] And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. [26] From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. [27] God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. [28] ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’ As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’ [29] “Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. [30] In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. [31] For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.” [32] When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.” [33] At that, Paul left the Council. [34] Some of the people became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.
Proof moves us from “___________ so” to “___________ so.”
Where we should start is with a _______________________.
___________ ______ _________________?
Doubt can come from the ____________________ we face.
[Mark 9:14-24] When they returned to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd surrounding them, and some teachers of religious law were arguing with them. [15] When the crowd saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with awe, and they ran to greet him. [16] "What is all this arguing about?" Jesus asked. [17] One of the men in the crowd spoke up and said, "Teacher, I brought my son so you could heal him. He is possessed by an evil spirit that won't let him talk. [18] And whenever this spirit seizes him, it throws him violently to the ground. Then he foams at the mouth and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid. So I asked your disciples to cast out the evil spirit, but they couldn't do it." [19] Jesus said to them, "You faithless people! How long must I be with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring the boy to me." [20] So they brought the boy. But when the evil spirit saw Jesus, it threw the child into a violent convulsion, and he fell to the ground, writhing and foaming at the mouth. [21] "How long has this been happening?" Jesus asked the boy's father. He replied, "Since he was a little boy. [22] The spirit often throws him into the fire or into water, trying to kill him. Have mercy on us and help us, if you can." [23] "What do you mean, 'If I can'?" Jesus asked. "Anything is possible if a person believes." [24] The father instantly cried out, "I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!"
Doubt is a ____________________ part of our journey.
There's a difference between having ___________________ and being an ____________________.
[Mark 9:25-29] When Jesus saw that the crowd of onlookers was growing, he rebuked the evil spirit. "Listen, you spirit that makes this boy unable to hear and speak," he said. "I command you to come out of this child and never enter him again!" [26] Then the spirit screamed and threw the boy into another violent convulsion and left him. The boy appeared to be dead. A murmur ran through the crowd as people said, "He's dead." [27] But Jesus took him by the hand and helped him to his feet, and he stood up. [28] Afterward, when Jesus was alone in the house with his disciples, they asked him, "Why couldn't we cast out that evil spirit?" [29] Jesus replied, "This kind can be cast out only by prayer."
We can ___________ ___________ into our place of doubt.
Doubt can actually be a catalyst for ___________________.
[Hebrews 11:6] And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
My faith is in ___________, not in an __________________.
Things that we compare:
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
WHY GOD HATES WHEN WE COMPARE
Comparison is the Death of ____________________
[2 Corinthians 10:12] Oh, don’t worry; we wouldn’t dare say that we are as wonderful as these other men who tell you how important they are! But they are only comparing themselves with each other, using themselves as the standard of measurement. How ignorant!
_______________ in life isn't being superior or inferior to someone else.
When you compare yourself to someone it creates either ____________________ or ____________________.
Comparison Make us ____________________
[Luke 18:9-12] Then Jesus told this story to some who had great confidence in their own righteousness and scorned everyone else: [10] “Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. [11] The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else. For I don’t cheat, I don’t sin, and I don’t commit adultery. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! [12] I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.’
Comparison Makes us ____________________
[1 Samuel 18:6-9] When the victorious Israelite army was returning home after David had killed the Philistine, women from all the towns of Israel came out to meet King Saul. They sang and danced for joy with tambourines and cymbals. [7] This was their song: “Saul has killed his thousands, and David with ten thousands and me with only thousands. Next they’ll be making him their king!” [9] So from that time on Saul kept a jealous eye on David.
When we compare, we ____________________ God's goodness in other people's lives and ____________________ God's blessing in our own life!
HOW TO OVERCOME COMPARING
- Know What You _______________
[Philippians 4:11-13] Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. [12] I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. [13] For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
- Know _______________ You Are
[Ephesians 2:10] For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
When recognize that you are God's _______________________ you no longer see the need to compare.
God loves to work through ___________________ people.
[Exodus 3:10-14] Now go, for I am sending you to Pharaoh. You must lead my people Israel out of Egypt." [11] But Moses protested to God, "Who am I to appear before Pharaoh? Who am I to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt?" [12] God answered, "I will be with you. And this is your sign that I am the one who has sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God at this very mountain." [13] But Moses protested, "If I go to the people of Israel and tell them, 'The God of your ancestors has sent me to you,' they will ask me, 'What is his name?' Then what should I tell them?" [14] God replied to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. Say this to the people of Israel: I AM has sent me to you."
You can't do God’s will _______________ __________ from God.
[Exodus 4:1-5] But Moses protested again, "What if they won't believe me or listen to me? What if they say, 'The LORD never appeared to you'?" [2] Then the LORD asked him, "What is that in your hand?" "A shepherd's staff," Moses replied. [3] "Throw it down on the ground," the LORD told him. So Moses threw down the staff, and it turned into a snake! Moses jumped back. [4] Then the LORD told him, "Reach out and grab its tail." So Moses reached out and grabbed it, and it turned back into a shepherd's staff in his hand. [5] "Perform this sign," the LORD told him. "Then they will believe that the LORD, the God of their ancestors--the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob--really has appeared to you."
Don’t let doubt become a _______________ _______________.
[Exodus 4:10-14] But Moses pleaded with the LORD, "O Lord, I'm not very good with words. I never have been, and I'm not now, even though you have spoken to me. I get tongue-tied, and my words get tangled." [11] Then the LORD asked Moses, "Who makes a person's mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the LORD? [12] Now go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say." [13] But Moses again pleaded, "Lord, please! Send anyone else." [14] Then the LORD became angry with Moses. "All right," he said. "What about your brother, Aaron the Levite? I know he speaks well. And look! He is on his way to meet you now. He will be delighted to see you.
Faith is not the ___________________ of doubt.
[Exodus 5:22-23] Then Moses went back to the LORD and protested, "Why have you brought all this trouble on your own people, Lord? Why did you send me? [23] Ever since I came to Pharaoh as your spokesman, he has been even more brutal to your people. And you have done nothing to rescue them!"
God will ____________ give us more than _________ can handle.
[1 Corinthians 1:27-28] Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. [28] God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important.
Fear of __________________________
Fear of __________________________
Fear of __________________________
Fear of __________________________
2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV) For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Fear is placing faith in the “____________-_________.”
Exodus 4:1 But Moses protested again, “What if they won’t believe me or listen to me? What if they say, ‘The Lord never appeared to you’?”
What you fear reveals what you ___________ the most!
What you fear reveals where you trust God the _______
I'm not trusting God with: ___________________
- Acknowledge your fear & ____________ to trust God.
Psalm 56:2-4 I am constantly hounded by those who slander me, and many are boldly attacking me. 3 But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. 4 I praise God for what he has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me?
I make a _________________ to trust!
I choose to _________________ you no matter what!
- Seek God until he _____________ away your fears.
Psalm 34:4 I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears.
"I have never known more than fifteen minutes of anxiety or fear. Whenever I feel fearful emotions overtaking me I just close my eyes and thank God that he is still on the throne reigning over everything and I take comfort in His control over all the affairs of my life.” - John Wesley
When I'm fearful I need to close my eyes and remind myself that God is on the __________________!
Isaiah 41:10 Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
_________ puts circumstances between us and God. _________ puts God between us and circumstance.
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Doubt is a ________________ part of life.
[John 12:3-6] Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus' feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance. [4] But Judas Iscariot, the disciple who would soon betray him, said, [5] "That perfume was worth a year's wages. It should have been sold and the money given to the poor." [6] Not that he cared for the poor--he was a thief, and since he was in charge of the disciples' money, he often stole some for himself.
Doubt can lead us down ________________ paths if left unchecked.
[Matthew 26:14-16] Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, went to the leading priests [15] and asked, "How much will you pay me to betray Jesus to you?" And they gave him thirty pieces of silver. [16] From that time on, Judas began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus.
Doubt can ultimately lead to ________________.
[Matthew 26:21-25 NIV] And while they were eating, he said, "Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me." [22] They were very sad and began to say to him one after the other, "Surely you don't mean me, Lord?" [23] Jesus replied, "The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me. [24] The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born." [25] Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, "Surely you don't mean me, Rabbi?" Jesus answered, "You have said so."
Doubt can easily lead to ________________.
[Matthew 27:3-5] When Judas, who had betrayed him, realized that Jesus had been condemned to die, he was filled with remorse. So he took the thirty pieces of silver back to the leading priests and the elders. [4] "I have sinned," he declared, "for I have betrayed an innocent man." "What do we care?" they retorted. "That's your problem." [5] Then Judas threw the silver coins down in the Temple and went out and hanged himself.
We need to ________________ our doubt, not ________________ our doubt.
[Genesis 3:12] The man replied, “It was the woman you gave me who gave me the fruit, and I ate it.”
[Job 10:1] “I am disgusted with my life. Let me complain freely. My bitter soul must complain.
[Exodus 16:2-3] There, too, the whole community of Israel complained about Moses and Aaron. [3] “If only the Lord had killed us back in Egypt,” they moaned. “There we sat around pots filled with meat and ate all the bread we wanted. But now you have brought us into this wilderness to starve us all to death.”
If you want to live a life that _______________ God, we need to stop complaining!
Complaining ______________ the heart of God.
[Numbers 11:1-2] Soon the people began to complain about their hardship, and the Lord heard everything they said. Then the Lord’s anger blazed against them, and he sent a fire to rage among them, and he destroyed some of the people in the outskirts of the camp. [2] Then the people screamed to Moses for help, and when he prayed to the Lord, the fire stopped.
Complaining carries significant _________________
Complaining is a ________________ of God.
[Numbers 14:27-30] “How long must I put up with this wicked community and its complaints about me? Yes, I have heard the complaints the Israelites are making against me. [28] Now tell them this: ‘As surely as I live, declares the Lord, I will do to you the very things I heard you say. [29] You will all drop dead in this wilderness! Because you complained against me, every one of you who is twenty years old or older and was included in the registration will die. [30] You will not enter and occupy the land I swore to give you. The only exceptions will be Caleb son of Jephunneh and Joshua son of Nun.
If you want to find something to __________________ about you can. If you want to find something to be filled with ___________ about you can.
What can we do? Stop ___________________.
Philippians [2:14-15] Do everything without complaining and arguing, [15] so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.
Ephesians 4:29 Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
Why shouldn't we complain? So we can be more like ____________.
[Luke 6:45] A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.
How? Choose to ________________ no matter what.
[Philippians 2:17-18] But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God, just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. [18] Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy.
[Philippians 4:11] Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.
[Philippians 4:4] Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!
Doubt and _______________ go hand in hand.
[Luke 1:5-9] When Herod was king of Judea, there was a Jewish priest named Zechariah. He was a member of the priestly order of Abijah, and his wife, Elizabeth, was also from the priestly line of Aaron. [6] Zechariah and Elizabeth were righteous in God's eyes, careful to obey all of the Lord's commandments and regulations. [7] They had no children because Elizabeth was unable to conceive, and they were both very old. [8] One day Zechariah was serving God in the Temple, for his order was on duty that week. [9] As was the custom of the priests, he was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and burn incense.
God is _________________ even He doesn't do what we want.
[Luke 1:10-12] While the incense was being burned, a great crowd stood outside, praying. [11] While Zechariah was in the sanctuary, an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar. [12] Zechariah was shaken and overwhelmed with fear when he saw him.
We can respond to problems with _______________ or with _______________.
[2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV] For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
God wants us to have _______________ _______________.
[Luke 1:18-20] Zechariah said to the angel, "How can I be sure this will happen? I'm an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years." [19] Then the angel said, "I am Gabriel! I stand in the very presence of God. It was he who sent me to bring you this good news! [20] But now, since you didn't believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time."
Unbelief is a _______________.
[Luke 1:24-25] Soon afterward his wife, Elizabeth, became pregnant and went into seclusion for five months. [25] "How kind the Lord is!" she exclaimed. "He has taken away my disgrace of having no children."
Our irritations can remind us of God's ____________________.
[Luke 1:59-64] When the baby was eight days old, they all came for the circumcision ceremony. They wanted to name him Zechariah, after his father. [60] But Elizabeth said, "No! His name is John!" [61] "What?" they exclaimed. "There is no one in all your family by that name." [62] So they used gestures to ask the baby's father what he wanted to name him. [63] He motioned for a writing tablet, and to everyone's surprise he wrote, "His name is John." [64] Instantly Zechariah could speak again, and he began praising God.
We can turn our doubts into _______________.
As soon as I decide to be different, devil gives me excuses to ____________ ____________ ____________!
[Luke 14:16-20] Jesus replied with this story: “A man prepared a great feast and sent out many invitations. 17 When the banquet was ready, he sent his servant to tell the guests, ‘Come, the banquet is ready.’ 18 But they all began making excuses. One said, ‘I have just bought a field and must inspect it. Please excuse me.’ 19 Another said, ‘I have just bought five pairs of oxen, and I want to try them out. Please excuse me.’ 20 Another said, ‘I now have a wife, so I can’t come.’
So many people have ____________ intentions instead of ____________ intentions.
What does God want to be __________________ about your life?
________ does God want this to be different in your life?
[1 Corinthians 6:19] Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself,
When you connect the ____________ to the ____________ it will increase your motivation.
[Romans 8:31b] If God is for us, who can ever be against us?
No ____________ can keep you from perfect will of God.
[Exodus 4:10-12]But Moses pleaded with the Lord, “O Lord, I’m not very good with words. I never have been, and I’m not now, even though you have spoken to me. I get tongue-tied, and my words get tangled.” 11 Then the Lord asked Moses, “Who makes a person’s mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the Lord? 12 Now go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say.”
I will ____________ what I can do and trust God to do what I _________________ do!
When you ____________, God will help you and ____________ you along the way
There are some things God ____________ do for me!
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Doubt can either ________________ your faith or ________________ your faith.
[James 1:6 NIV] But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.
God doesn't expect you to have ________________ faith.
God is ______________ ______________ to handle your doubts.
[Mark 1:7-11] John announced: "Someone is coming soon who is greater than I am--so much greater that I'm not even worthy to stoop down like a slave and untie the straps of his sandals. [8] I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit!" [9] One day Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and John baptized him in the Jordan River. [10] As Jesus came up out of the water, he saw the heavens splitting apart and the Holy Spirit descending on him like a dove. [11] And a voice from heaven said, "You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy."
John was the first one to ________________ Jesus was the Messiah.
[John 1:35-37] The following day John was again standing with two of his disciples. [36] As Jesus walked by, John looked at him and declared, "Look! There is the Lamb of God!" [37] When John's two disciples heard this, they followed Jesus.
Sometimes we have ________________ when God's ________________ doesn't look like we think it should.
[Matthew 11:2-3] John the Baptist, who was in prison, heard about all the things the Messiah was doing. So he sent his disciples to ask Jesus, [3] "Are you the Messiah we've been expecting, or should we keep looking for someone else?"
Even people with strong ________________ face doubt in ________________ times.
Doubting for too long can turn into ________________.
[Matthew 11:4-11] Jesus told them, "Go back to John and tell him what you have heard and seen-- [5] the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised to life, and the Good News is being preached to the poor. [6] And tell him, 'God blesses those who do not turn away because of me.'" [7] As John's disciples were leaving, Jesus began talking about him to the crowds. "What kind of man did you go into the wilderness to see? Was he a weak reed, swayed by every breath of wind? [8] Or were you expecting to see a man dressed in expensive clothes? No, people with expensive clothes live in palaces. [9] Were you looking for a prophet? Yes, and he is more than a prophet. [10] John is the man to whom the Scriptures refer when they say, 'Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, and he will prepare your way before you.' [11] "I tell you the truth, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John the Baptist. Yet even the least person in the Kingdom of Heaven is greater than he is!
Doubt should drive us to seek ________________.
[Genesis 26:12-18] When Isaac planted his crops that year, he harvested a hundred times more grain than he planted, for the Lord blessed him. [13] He became a very rich man, and his wealth continued to grow. [14] He acquired so many flocks of sheep and goats, herds of cattle, and servants that the Philistines became jealous of him. [15] So the Philistines filled up all of Isaac’s wells with dirt. These were the wells that had been dug by the servants of his father, Abraham. [16] Finally, Abimelech ordered Isaac to leave the country. “Go somewhere else,” he said, “for you have become too powerful for us.” [17] So Isaac moved away to the Gerar Valley, where he set up their tents and settled down. [18] He reopened the wells his father had dug, which the Philistines had filled in after Abraham’s death. Isaac also restored the names Abraham had given them.
[John 7:37-39] On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! [38] Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’” [39] (When he said “living water,” he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory.)
[Genesis 26:1] A severe famine now struck the land, as had happened before in Abraham’s time. So Isaac moved to Gerar, where Abimelech, king of the Philistines, lived.
God often uses famines to force us out of our __________________ __________________.
You'll always be in the groove if you know how to ________________ __________________ __________________.
You can't increase _______________ without confrontation.
As our capacity increases so do __________________.
God will push you out of comfort zone so you find your ___________.
if you aren't careful you won't recognize the __________________ when it shows up looking like a __________________.
What kind of __________________ has the enemy put in the well to try to block my blessing?
Proverbs 4:23 Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.
Dig out __________________
Dig out __________________
Dig out __________________
God can bring _________________ ______________ from old wells.
[John 4:13-14] Jesus replied, “Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. 14 But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.”
[John 2:1-3 ESV] On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. [2] Jesus also was invited to the wedding with his disciples. [3] When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to him, "They have no wine."
Our __________________ is an opportunity for God's __________________.
[Philippians 4:19 ESV] And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
You can't have a miracle without a __________________.
Don't just run to Jesus when your __________________ run out.
[John 2:4-5 ESV] And Jesus said to her, "Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come." [5] His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you."
God's miracles begin with our __________________.
[John 2:6-10 ESV] Now there were six stone water jars there for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. [7] Jesus said to the servants, "Fill the jars with water." And they filled them up to the brim. [8] And he said to them, "Now draw some out and take it to the master of the feast." So they took it. [9] When the master of the feast tasted the water now become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom [10] and said to him, "Everyone serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now."
We should keep __________________ God even when it seems like __________________ is happening.
[James 1:22 NIV] Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
God's __________________ is on the way!
[Genesis 1:1-4] In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. [2] The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. [3] Then God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. [4] And God saw that the light was good. Then he separated the light from the darkness.
The first thing God ever gave us was ______________. It was also the first thing he gave us on ________________________.
[Exodus 13:21] The Lord went ahead of them. He guided them during the day with a pillar of cloud, and he provided light at night with a pillar of fire. This allowed them to travel by day or by night.
[Psalm 27:1a] The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid?
____________________ of the Messiah:
[Isaiah 9:2] The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.
The prophecy ____________________:
[John 1:1-12] In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. [2] He existed in the beginning with God. [3] God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. [4] The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. [6] God sent a man, John the Baptist, [7] to tell about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. [8] John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light. [9] The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. [10] He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. [11] He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. [12] But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.
The same God that created light ___________________ light.
God used light to announce Jesus' birth to the _____________________ and the _____________________.
[Luke 2:8] That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. 9 Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified,
[Matthew 2:9-10] After this interview the wise men went their way. And the star they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were filled with joy!
Jesus' birth wasn't announced to the religious but to the _____________ and _______________.
[John 8:12] Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
In order to follow someone you have to take a __________________.
[Ephesians 5:8-11] For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! [9] For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. [10] Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. [11] Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them.
I choose to take a step and follow Jesus as my Lord? _________
[Proverbs 16:5 AMP] Everyone who is proud and arrogant in heart is disgusting and exceedingly offensive to the LORD; Be assured he will not go unpunished.
Pride is taking _________________ for what God has done.
[Daniel 5:1-4] King Belshazzar gave a great feast for 1,000 of his nobles, and he drank wine with them. [2] While Belshazzar was drinking the wine, he gave orders to bring in the gold and silver cups that his predecessor, Nebuchadnezzar, had taken from the Temple in Jerusalem. He wanted to drink from them with his nobles, his wives, and his concubines. [3] So they brought these gold cups taken from the Temple, the house of God in Jerusalem, and the king and his nobles, his wives, and his concubines drank from them. [4] While they drank from them they praised their idols made of gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone.
There is only _________________ true living God.
[Daniel 5:5-6] Suddenly, they saw the fingers of a human hand writing on the plaster wall of the king's palace, near the lampstand. The king himself saw the hand as it wrote, [6] and his face turned pale with fright. His knees knocked together in fear and his legs gave way beneath him.
We can turn to God in times of _________________!
God _________________ those who walk in _________________.
[Luke 14:11] For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."
God will bring _________________ those who are full of _________________.
[Daniel 5:25-28] "This is the message that was written: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, and PARSIN. [26] This is what these words mean: [Mene] means 'numbered'--God has numbered the days of your reign and has brought it to an end. [27] [Tekel] means 'weighed'--you have been weighed on the balances and have not measured up. [28] [Parsin] means 'divided'--your kingdom has been divided and given to the Medes and Persians."
God loves to work through the _______________________.
[Matthew 1:18-25] This is how Jesus the Messiah was born. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. But before the marriage took place, while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit. [19] Joseph, her fiancé, was a good man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly. [20] As he considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. “Joseph, son of David,” the angel said, “do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit. [21] And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” [22] All of this occurred to fulfill the Lord’s message through his prophet: [23] “Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’” [24] When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded and took Mary as his wife. [25] But he did not have sexual relations with her until her son was born. And Joseph named him Jesus.
Something you have to _______________.
For God to change your ________ first he has to change your ________.
Hard to accept a change that you ____________ have a say in.
Something you have to _______________.
Is God calling me to obey something I don't ___________________?
What often seems like an interruption is an ___________________ to experience God in your life.
[Luke 1:28-31, 34-35] Gabriel appeared to her and said, “Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you!” [29] Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. [30] “Don’t be afraid, Mary,” the angel told her, “for you have found favor with God! [31] You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus. [34] Mary asked the angel, “But how can this happen? [35] The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God.
Something you have to _______________.
It's time to ____________ and give birth to what God planted in you.
Something you have to _______________.
__________________ begins with something you believe.
It's easier to embrace the pain of change when you know the ___________________.
We can embrace the change life brings when you're _________________ in something that never will change.
[Hebrews 13:8] Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
[John 19:17] Carrying the cross by himself, he went to the place called Place of the Skull (in Hebrew, Golgotha).
[John 20:6] Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there,
We can embrace the change by clinging to the _______________.
[2 Corinthians 5:17] This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
[Mark 14:1-9 ESV] It was now two days before the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. And the chief priests and the scribes were seeking how to arrest him by stealth and kill him, [2] for they said, "Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar from the people." [3] And while he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he was reclining at table, a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head. [4] There were some who said to themselves indignantly, "Why was the ointment wasted like that? [5] For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and given to the poor." And they scolded her. [6] But Jesus said, "Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. [7] For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me. [8] She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for burial. [9] And truly, I say to you, wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in memory of her."
Worship isn't about the ________________ we ________________, but the ________________ we bring.
[Romans 12:1] And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice--the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.
Most people won't _____________________ when you make a sacrifice for God.
We give _____________________ to the things we worship.
[John 12:1-3] Six days before the Passover celebration began, Jesus arrived in Bethany, the home of Lazarus--the man he had raised from the dead. [2] A dinner was prepared in Jesus' honor. Martha served, and Lazarus was among those who ate with him. [3] Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus' feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance.
Extravagant worship is ________________ God the ________________ of what we have.
Our worship should be ______________________.
[Revelation 4:11] "You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased."
Worship seems like a ________________ to the world.
[John 15:1-8] “I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. [2] He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. [3] You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. [4] Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. [5] “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. [6] Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. [7] But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! [8] When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.
When you find yourself in winter season it is often because God wants to ______________ you for something.
We won't always know _________, but we can ask ____________ God wants us to do.
A season of _________________ is often after a season that seems ___________________.
I don't get to choose the _______________ but I can choose my _______________.
Sometimes God will use my winter season to __________ something from me.
If you don't bear fruit you get _______________, if you do bear fruit you get _______________.
If I really want to be a disciple of Jesus I must _______________.
If I have to go through something hard I might as well get ____________________ out of it.
God uses winter season to ______ something through you.
God isn't putting you in winter to punish you or _______________ with you, it's to _______________ you.
[1 Peter 1:6-7] So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. [7] These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.
When you allow God to prepare and prune you, He will _________ His glory through you and you'll ___________ much fruit.
[Psalm 23:4 KJV] Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
There's ______________ for you!
[Luke 15:11-13] To illustrate the point further, Jesus told them this story: "A man had two sons. [12] The younger son told his father, 'I want my share of your estate now before you die.' So his father agreed to divide his wealth between his sons. [13] "A few days later this younger son packed all his belongings and moved to a distant land, and there he wasted all his money in wild living.
You ______________ need to hit rock bottom to turn to Jesus.
[Luke 15:20-24] "So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. [21] His son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son.' [22] "But his father said to the servants, 'Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet. [23] And kill the calf we have been fattening. We must celebrate with a feast, [24] for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.' So the party began.
We all have the opportunity to find forgiveness & _____________ in our Heavenly Father.
[Luke 15:1-3] Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach. [2] This made the Pharisees and teachers of religious law complain that he was associating with such sinful people--even eating with them! [3] So Jesus told them this story:
This story was directed towards the _________________ people.
[Luke 15:25-28] "Meanwhile, the older son was in the fields working. When he returned home, he heard music and dancing in the house, [26] and he asked one of the servants what was going on. [27] 'Your brother is back,' he was told, 'and your father has killed the fattened calf. We are celebrating because of his safe return.' [28] "The older brother was angry and wouldn't go in. His father came out and begged him,
It's easy to become ______________ of God's blessings to others.
[Luke 15:29-30] but he replied, 'All these years I've slaved for you and never once refused to do a single thing you told me to. And in all that time you never gave me even one young goat for a feast with my friends. [30] Yet when this son of yours comes back after squandering your money on prostitutes, you celebrate by killing the fattened calf!'
We always ______________ the comparison game.
God doesn't ______________ us anything, but He gives each of us mercy and ______________.
[Luke 15:31-32] "His father said to him, 'Look, dear son, you have always stayed by me, and everything I have is yours. [32] We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!'"
[Galatians 6:4-5,7-10 MSG] Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don’t be impressed with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life. [7-8] Don’t be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest. The person who plants selfishness, ignoring the needs of others—ignoring God!—harvests a crop of weeds. All he’ll have to show for his life is weeds! But the one who plants in response to God, letting God’s Spirit do the growth work in him, harvests a crop of real life, eternal life. [9-10] So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith.
The days seem __________ but years always seem __________.
[Psalm 90:12] Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Two different types of time:
Chronos: space of ____________; interval.
Kairos: the ____________ time; opportune time.
[Romans 5:6] When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.
We live in ______________ but God lives in ______________.
Long stretches darkness, invisibility & silence separate _________________ from _________________.
The harvest is inevitable but growth is ____________________.
Every moment has the __________________ to be a God moment if you want to find God in the moment.
[Matthew 7:7-8] “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. [8] For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.
If you miss the _____________ you might miss a _____________.
[Ephesians 3:12] Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence.
When ____________________________ is in you, you don't need to wait for a “God moment.”
[Psalm 100:4] Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name.
[Ephesians 5:16 KJV] Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
We often miss _________________ because we despise the _________________.
Learn to _________________ the moment rather than letting the moments master you.
You can have a life-changing _______________ on the people you care about.
[Mark 2:1-4] When Jesus returned to Capernaum several days later, the news spread quickly that he was back home. [2] Soon the house where he was staying was so packed with visitors that there was no more room, even outside the door. While he was preaching God's word to them, [3] four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a mat. [4] They couldn't bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, so they dug a hole through the roof above his head. Then they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus.
Don't _______________ ___________ so easily!
Don't underestimate the power of __________________ someone to Jesus.
[Mark 2:5-7] Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, "My child, your sins are forgiven." [6] But some of the teachers of religious law who were sitting there thought to themselves, [7] "What is he saying? This is blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins!"
Only God has the _______________ to _________________ sins.
[Mark 2:8-12] Jesus knew immediately what they were thinking, so he asked them, "Why do you question this in your hearts? [9] Is it easier to say to the paralyzed man 'Your sins are forgiven,' or 'Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk'? [10] So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins." Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, [11] "Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!" [12] And the man jumped up, grabbed his mat, and walked out through the stunned onlookers. They were all amazed and praised God, exclaiming, "We've never seen anything like this before!"
Our ultimate need isn't to be free from our ______________ but to be made _______________ with God.
[Romans 3:21-24] But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. [22] We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. [23] For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. [24] Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.
_______________ in Jesus unlocks ____________________ from Jesus.
[Ecclesiastes 3:1] For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.
[Ecclesiastes 3:11a] Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time.
[Ephesians 1:10] And this is the plan: At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ—everything in heaven and on earth.
God schedules every ________________________ in your life.
Stop trying to live in _____________________________ season
There's a ________________________ in every season
My season has a ________________________.
[Galatians 6:9] So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.
Every Season is shaped by ___________________________
We can prolong a hard season by _______________________.
[Psalm 69:30] I will sing praises to God's name! I will magnify him as I give him thanks!
We need to count our blessings and turn them into PRAISE.
Every Season has ______________________ You Can Seize
[Ephesians 5:20] And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
[2 Corinthians 12:9-10] Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. [10] That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
[Psalm 118:24] This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.
[Philippians 1:6] And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
[2 Thessalonians 2:1-3] Now, dear brothers and sisters, let us clarify some things about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and how we will be gathered to meet him. [2] Don't be so easily shaken or alarmed by those who say that the day of the Lord has already begun. Don't believe them, even if they claim to have had a spiritual vision, a revelation, or a letter supposedly from us. [3] Don't be fooled by what they say. For that day will not come until there is a great rebellion against God and the man of lawlessness is revealed--the one who brings destruction.
Keep your eyes on Jesus and don't be ________________ of what's ________________.
[2 Thessalonians 2:4] He will exalt himself and defy everything that people call god and every object of worship. He will even sit in the temple of God, claiming that he himself is God.
Anything that declares ________________ on God is _______________________.
[2 Thessalonians 2:7] For this lawlessness is already at work secretly, and it will remain secret until the one who is holding it back steps out of the way.
The devil wants us to be more focused on ______________ than we are focused on ________________.
[1 John 2:22-23 ESV] Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son. [23] No one who denies the Son has the Father. Whoever confesses the Son has the Father also.
Jesus is going to ________________.
[2 Thessalonians 2:8-10] Then the man of lawlessness will be revealed, but the Lord Jesus will kill him with the breath of his mouth and destroy him by the splendor of his coming. [9] This man will come to do the work of Satan with counterfeit power and signs and miracles. [10] He will use every kind of evil deception to fool those on their way to destruction, because they refuse to love and accept the truth that would save them.
There is ________________ in the name of Jesus.
[Acts 4:12] There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved."
[James 5:13-16] Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises. [14] Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. [15] Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven. [16] Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.
God still __________________________
[Hebrews 13:8] Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
[2 Timothy 4:18] Yes, and the Lord will deliver me from every evil attack and will bring me safely into his heavenly Kingdom.
God is more concerned about __________________________
[Matthew 10:28] "Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
[Luke 10:19-20] Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy, and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them. Nothing will injure you. [20] But don’t rejoice because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered in heaven.”
God wants me to _________________________________
[Hebrews 11:6] And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
James 5:17-18 Elijah was as human as we are, and yet when he prayed earnestly that no rain would fall, none fell for three and a half years! 18 Then, when he prayed again, the sky sent down rain and the earth began to yield its crops.
- Faith begins with a _________________________________
[Romans 10:17] So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.
[1 Kings 17:1] Now Elijah, who was from Tishbe in Gilead, told King Ahab, “As surely as the Lord, the God of Israel, lives—the God I serve—there will be no dew or rain during the next few years until I give the word!”
- Faith continues when you _________________ to what He said.
[1 Kings 18:43-44] Then he said to his servant, “Go and look out toward the sea.” The servant went and looked, then returned to Elijah and said, “I didn’t see anything.” Seven times Elijah told him to go and look. 44 Finally the seventh time, his servant told him, “I saw a little cloud about the size of a man’s hand rising from the sea.”
[Galatians 6:9] So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.
- Faith goes from a _______________________ to a grand finale.
[1 Kings 18:45-46] And soon the sky was black with clouds. A heavy wind brought a terrific rainstorm, and Ahab left quickly for Jezreel. [46] Then the Lord gave special strength to Elijah. He tucked his cloak into his belt and ran ahead of Ahab’s chariot all the way to the entrance of Jezreel.
[Zechariah 4:10a] Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin,
The ______________________ is the point!
Promise - Process - Payoff - Perspective
[James 5:19-20] My dear brothers and sisters, if someone among you wanders away from the truth and is brought back, 20 you can be sure that whoever brings the sinner back from wandering will save that person from death and bring about the forgiveness of many sins.
It's all about _________________________________
We will all meet ________________ one day.
[1 Thessalonians 5:9-11] For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. [10] Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. [11] So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.
God's goal is not to pour out His ________________ on us.
God is not ________________ at you.
[1 Thessalonians 4:13-18] And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. [14] For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died. [15] We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died. [16] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the Christians who have died will rise from their graves. [17] Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. [18] So encourage each other with these words.
Your death here on ________________ is not the ________________.
[1 Corinthians 15:55-58] O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?" [56] For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. [57] But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. [58] So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
We don't need to fear death when our ________________ is in Jesus.
[Hebrews 4:16] So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
Jesus' _______________________ assures us that death was defeated.
[Ephesians 2:4-5]
But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, [5] that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's grace that you have been saved!)
[James 5:1-6] Look here, you rich people: Weep and groan with anguish because of all the terrible troubles ahead of you. [2] Your wealth is rotting away, and your fine clothes are moth-eaten rags. [3] Your gold and silver are corroded. The very wealth you were counting on will eat away your flesh like fire. This corroded treasure you have hoarded will testify against you on the day of judgment. [4] For listen! Hear the cries of the field workers whom you have cheated of their pay. The cries of those who harvest your fields have reached the ears of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. [5] You have spent your years on earth in luxury, satisfying your every desire. You have fattened yourselves for the day of slaughter. [6] You have condemned and killed innocent people, who do not resist you.
Attitudes of a Giving Life
Don't ________________ it greedily but ________________ it wisely.
Don't ________________ it deceptively but ________________ it honestly.
Don't ________________ it selfishly but ________________ it generously.
[Luke 12:15] Then he said, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.”
[Proverbs 11:24-25] Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything. [25] The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.
[James 5:7-12] Dear brothers and sisters, be patient as you wait for the Lord’s return. Consider the farmers who patiently wait for the rains in the fall and in the spring. They eagerly look for the valuable harvest to ripen. [8] You, too, must be patient. Take courage, for the coming of the Lord is near. [9] Don’t grumble about each other, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. For look—the Judge is standing at the door! [10] For examples of patience in suffering, dear brothers and sisters, look at the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. [11] We give great honor to those who endure under suffering. For instance, you know about Job, a man of great endurance. You can see how the Lord was kind to him at the end, for the Lord is full of tenderness and mercy. [12] But most of all, my brothers and sisters, never take an oath, by heaven or earth or anything else. Just say a simple yes or no, so that you will not sin and be condemned.
4 Right Actions to Accompany our Right Attitude
Be ________________
________________
Be ________________
Show ________________.
[Colossians 2:2-3] I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love. I want them to have complete confidence that they understand God’s mysterious plan, which is Christ himself. [3] In him lie hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
[1 Thessalonians 2:14] And then, dear brothers and sisters, you suffered persecution from your own countrymen. In this way, you imitated the believers in God's churches in Judea who, because of their belief in Christ Jesus, suffered from their own people, the Jews.
When we become _________________ we stop becoming more like Jesus.
[1 Thessalonians 2:12] We pleaded with you, encouraged you, and urged you to live your lives in a way that God would consider worthy. For he called you to share in his Kingdom and glory.
You can make a _________________ in this world.
[2 Peter 3:8-9] But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. [9] The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.
God is never in a _________________.
[2 Thessalonians 3:13] As for the rest of you, dear brothers and sisters, never get tired of doing good.
God wants us to be _________ making a difference for Him.
[Luke 19:11-14] The crowd was listening to everything Jesus said. And because he was nearing Jerusalem, he told them a story to correct the impression that the Kingdom of God would begin right away. [12] He said, “A nobleman was called away to a distant empire to be crowned king and then return. [13] Before he left, he called together ten of his servants and divided among them ten pounds of silver, saying, ‘Invest this for me while I am gone.’ [14] But his people hated him and sent a delegation after him to say, ‘We do not want him to be our king.’
We are to _________________ the land God has put us in.
We are here to _________________ God's Kingdom.
[1 Thessalonians 4:11-12] Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we instructed you before. [12] Then people who are not Christians will respect the way you live, and you will not need to depend on others.
God wants us to be a _________________ to the people around us.
[1 Thessalonians 4:9-10] But we don't need to write to you about the importance of loving each other, for God himself has taught you to love one another. [10] Indeed, you already show your love for all the believers throughout Macedonia. Even so, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you to love them even more.
[James 3:13-18] If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. [14] But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don’t cover up the truth with boasting and lying. [15] For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. [16] For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind. [17] But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. [18] And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.
3 Characteristics of Worldly Wisdom
It is ______________________. (1 Corinthians 1:20)
It is ______________________. (Titus 3:3-5)
It is ______________________. (John 8:44; Proverbs 4:7)
3 Categories of Godly Wisdom
It springs up from ______________________________________
[1 John 3:3] And all who have this eager expectation will keep themselves pure, just as he is pure.
[Proverbs 10:9] People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will be exposed.
It acts with ______________________________________
[Philippians 2:1-5] Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 2 Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. 3 Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. 5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.
It is intent on serving ______________________________________
[Matthew 5:9, 16] God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. [16] In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.
[James 1:5] If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.
[Psalm 111:10 NET] To obey the Lord is the fundamental principle for wise living; all who carry out his precepts acquire good moral insight. He will receive praise forever.
Knowledge comes from ____________. Wisdom comes from _______
We should always stand strong in the face of OPPOSITION.
[1 Thessalonians 1:6-10] So you received the message with joy from the Holy Spirit in spite of the severe suffering it brought you. In this way, you imitated both us and the Lord. [7] As a result, you have become an example to all the believers in Greece--throughout both Macedonia and Achaia. [8] And now the word of the Lord is ringing out from you to people everywhere, even beyond Macedonia and Achaia, for wherever we go we find people telling us about your faith in God. We don't need to tell them about it, [9] for they keep talking about the wonderful welcome you gave us and how you turned away from idols to serve the living and true God. [10] And they speak of how you are looking forward to the coming of God's Son from heaven--Jesus, whom God raised from the dead. He is the one who has rescued us from the terrors of the coming judgment.
There is no fear of JUDGEMENT when our faith is in Jesus.
[Acts 1:9-11] After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. [10] As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. [11] "Men of Galilee," they said, "why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!"
Jesus gives us HOPE for tomorrow.
I have CONFIDENCE that Jesus is coming again.
[Mark 13:32-33] “However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. [33] And since you don’t know when that time will come, be on guard! Stay alert!
Do SOMETHING for the Kingdom of God while you wait for Jesus to come back!
[Acts 4:12] There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved."
God is not only the God of TODAY, but He is the God of TOMORROW.
[James 3:1-12] Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly. [2] Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. [3] We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. [4] And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. [5] In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. [6] And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. [7] People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, [8] but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. [9] Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. [10] And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! [11] Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? [12] Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can’t draw fresh water from a salty spring.
[Psalm 141:3] Take control of what I say, O Lord, and guard my lips.
The tongue is a _______________________.
The tongue is a _______________________.
The tongue is a _______________________.
The tongue has been a ______________ since the day we were born.
The tongue is ________________ untamable.
The tongue is __________________
3 Ways to Tame the Tongue
______________________
[James 1:19] You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.
______________________
T – Is it _________________?
H – Is it _________________?
I – Is it _________________?
N – Is it _________________?
K – Is it _________________?
______________________
[Matthew 12:34] You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For whatever is in your heart determines what you say.
[2 Kings 4:1-2] One day the widow of a member of the group of prophets came to Elisha and cried out, "My husband who served you is dead, and you know how he feared the LORD. But now a creditor has come, threatening to take my two sons as slaves." [2] "What can I do to help you?" Elisha asked. "Tell me, what do you have in the house?" "Nothing at all, except a flask of olive oil," she replied.
When you feel _________________, _________ ________, to God _________________,.
When you feel drained, _________________, on what you _________________,.
[2 Kings 4:3] And Elisha said, "Borrow as many empty jars as you can from your friends and neighbors.
When you feel drained, ask for _________________,.
[2 Kings 4:4-7] Then go into your house with your sons and shut the door behind you. Pour olive oil from your flask into the jars, setting each one aside when it is filled." [5] So she did as she was told. Her sons kept bringing jars to her, and she filled one after another. [6] Soon every container was full to the brim! "Bring me another jar," she said to one of her sons. "There aren't any more!" he told her. And then the olive oil stopped flowing. [7] When she told the man of God what had happened, he said to her, "Now sell the olive oil and pay your debts, and you and your sons can live on what is left over."
When you feel drained, have _________________, that God will _________________, you.
When you feel drained, keep _________________,.
We can _________________, our blessings when we limit our _________________, and _________________, to God.
[Luke 6:38] Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full--pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.”
When you are _________________,, you are in a position to be _________________,.
[Ephesians 3:16] I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit.
Everyone has faith in _______________. True faith has an ___________ associated with it.
[2 Corinthians 5:7] For we live by faith, not by sight.
[Hebrews 11:6a] It is impossible to please God without faith.
Faith must be combined with ________________.
[James 2:14] What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?
[2 Corinthians 13:5] Examine yourselves to see if your faith is genuine. Test yourselves. Surely you know that Jesus Christ is among you; if not, you have failed the test of genuine faith.
Faith that is ___________________
[James 2:15-16] Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, [16] and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
Dead faith produces leaves with no _________________
[James 2:17-18] So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless. [18] Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
Faith that is dead is just __________________________.
[James 2:19-20] You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. [20] How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?
Works without _______________
[Ephesians 2:8-9] God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. [9] Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.
Works without faith is just going through the ________________.
Faith that is ___________________
Faith that doesn't change my _________ won't change my ________.
True faith _________________ produces fruit.
[James 2:21] Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?
[James 2:25] Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road.
[James 2:26] Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.
God has made you with a _________________.
[Acts 9:36 NIV] In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor.
A _________________ is someone who is determined to be like their _________________.
[Galatians 6:10] Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone--especially to those in the family of faith.
We need to ______________ less and ____________ more.
[Acts 9:37-39 NIV] About that time she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. [38] Lydda was near Joppa; so when the disciples heard that Peter was in Lydda, they sent two men to him and urged him, "Please come at once!"** [39] Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them.
God is honored when we live a life that _________________ others.
[Acts 9:40-42 NIV] Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up. [41] He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called for the believers, especially the widows, and presented her to them alive. [42] This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord.
We have been _________________ so that we can _________________.
[James 2:14-17] What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don't show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? [15] Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, [16] and you say, "Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well"--but then you don't give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? [17] So you see, faith by itself isn't enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
When your faith is _________________ you will always look to _________________ others.
[Hebrews 10:38a] And my righteous ones will live by faith.
[James 2:1-9] My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others? [2] For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes. [3] If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—well, [4] doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives? [5] Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him? [6] But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court? [7] Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear? [8] Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” [9] But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law.
Judgement is ___________ to know why a person did what they did.
[Matthew 7:1-5] “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. [2] For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. [3] “And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own? [4] How can you think of saying to your friend, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? [5] Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye.
Sometimes we judge God, but God's only motive is ______________.
__________________ People
[Philippians 2:3] Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.
Judgement is the opposite of _____________________
[1 Samuel 16:7b] The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
Your __________________ doesn't change your value.
__________________ People
[Romans 15:7] Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory.
Don't confuse acceptance with _____________________
__________________ People
If we don't __________________ we stay judgmental.
[Matthew 6:14-15] “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. 15 But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.
__________________ People
___________________is the antidote for judgement.
[Luke 6:38] Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.”
[Luke 6:37] “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven.
[John 11:1-6 NIV] Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. [2] (This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair.) [3] So the sisters sent word to Jesus, "Lord, the one you love is sick." [4] When he heard this, Jesus said, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it." [5] Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. [6] So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days,
God loves when we ______________ him.
[John 14:1] "Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.
Faith isn't a way to ____________________ God.
[John 11:6-15 NIV] So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days, [7] and then he said to his disciples, "Let us go back to Judea." [8] "But Rabbi," they said, "a short while ago the Jews there tried to stone you, and yet you are going back?" [9] Jesus answered, "Are there not twelve hours of daylight? Anyone who walks in the daytime will not stumble, for they see by this world's light. [10] It is when a person walks at night that they stumble, for they have no light." [11] After he had said this, he went on to tell them, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up." [12] His disciples replied, "Lord, if he sleeps, he will get better." [13] Jesus had been speaking of his death, but his disciples thought he meant natural sleep. [14] So then he told them plainly, "Lazarus is dead, [15] and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him."
God has the right to keep us in ______________.
[John 11:20-27 NIV] When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home. [21] "Lord," Martha said to Jesus, "if you had been here, my brother would not have died. [22] But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask." [23] Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again." [24] Martha answered, "I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day." [25] 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?" [27] "Yes, Lord," she replied, "I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world."
God is ______________ in every situation.
God wants us to have faith without knowing the ______________.
[John 11:40-44 NIV] Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?" [41] So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me. [42] I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me." [43] When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" [44] The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, "Take off the grave clothes and let him go."
James was written by James the _________________________
[James 1:1] This letter is from James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am writing to the “twelve tribes”—Jewish believers scattered abroad. Greetings!
Stay _________________ in trouble
God is more interested in your ___________________ than your ______________________.
[1 Peter 1:6-7] So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. 7 These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.
Know what's ___________________ going on
[James 1:3-4] For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
All trials point to ________________________________.
_________ it grow
[James 1:3-4] For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
God won't build our ___________________ without our cooperation.
If we don't learn the lesson we ______________________________!
Ask for __________ ________________
[James 1:5-8] If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. 6 But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. 7 Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do.
If we need ________________ we should ask God for it.
[James 1:12] God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him
[Mark 5:21-24] Jesus got into the boat again and went back to the other side of the lake, where a large crowd gathered around him on the shore. [22] Then a leader of the local synagogue, whose name was Jairus, arrived. When he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet, [23] pleading fervently with him. "My little daughter is dying," he said. "Please come and lay your hands on her; heal her so she can live." [24] Jesus went with him, and all the people followed, crowding around him.
God goes with us through our ________________________.
[Psalm 23:4] Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.
Jesus has time for people who everyone else ________________________.
[Mark 5:35-36] While he was still speaking to her, messengers arrived from the home of Jairus, the leader of the synagogue. They told him, "Your daughter is dead. There's no use troubling the Teacher now." [36] But Jesus overheard them and said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid. Just have faith."
Our ________________________ are not too big for God.
[Mark 5:37-42] Then Jesus stopped the crowd and wouldn't let anyone go with him except Peter, James, and John (the brother of James). [38] When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus saw much commotion and weeping and wailing. [39] He went inside and asked, "Why all this commotion and weeping? The child isn't dead; she's only asleep." [40] The crowd laughed at him. But he made them all leave, and he took the girl's father and mother and his three disciples into the room where the girl was lying. [41] Holding her hand, he said to her, ["Talitha koum,"] which means "Little girl, get up!" [42] And the girl, who was twelve years old, immediately stood up and walked around! They were overwhelmed and totally amazed.
Jesus ________________________ any situation He is ________________________ into.
Interruptions do not ________________________ God.
You may not be able to control your ___________________ but you can control your ________________________.
[2 Corinthians 5:7 ESV] for we walk by faith, not by sight.
____________: a restoration to use after a period of obscurity. To live again.
[Revelation 2:4] “But I have this complaint against you. You don’t love me or each other as you did at first!
Revival is needed because out __________ faded.
I want revival to happen to THEM. But it starts in _________
[2 Chronicles 7:14] Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.
__________________ THEMSELVES
[James 4:6-7, 10] And he gives grace generously. As the Scriptures say, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” [7] So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. [10] Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.
_______________ will stop up from being close to God.
PRAY
[1 Thessalonians 5:17] Never stop praying.
Main thing Jesus taught about prayer was _________________
[James 5:16] The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.
________________ MY FACE
[Matthew 6:33] Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
TURN FROM THEIR ___________________________
______________ comes before revival.
[Acts 3:19-20] Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. 20 Then times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord, and he will again send you Jesus, your appointed Messiah.
Our Mission: Help people become ___________________ followers of Christ.
God has called us to:
__________________ _________________ ___________________
[2 Kings 4:8-10] One day Elisha went to the town of Shunem. A wealthy woman lived there, and she urged him to come to her home for a meal. After that, whenever he passed that way, he would stop there for something to eat. [9] She said to her husband, "I am sure this man who stops in from time to time is a holy man of God. [10] Let's build a small room for him on the roof and furnish it with a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp. Then he will have a place to stay whenever he comes by."
Selfless people look for opportunities to _______________ others.
[2 Kings 4:15-17] Call her back again," Elisha told him. When the woman returned, Elisha said to her as she stood in the doorway, [16] "Next year at this time you will be holding a son in your arms!" "No, my lord!" she cried. "O man of God, don't deceive me and get my hopes up like that." [17] But sure enough, the woman soon became pregnant. And at that time the following year she had a son, just as Elisha had said.
God rewards those who are _______________________.
[2 Kings 4:22-23 ESV] Then she called to her husband and said, "Send me one of the servants and one of the donkeys, that I may quickly go to the man of God and come back again." [23] And he said, "Why will you go to him today? It is neither new moon nor Sabbath." She said, "All is well."
Instead of giving in to _________________, turn to God for help.
[2 Kings 4:26 ESV] Run at once to meet her and say to her, 'Is all well with you? Is all well with your husband? Is all well with the child?'" And she answered, "All is well."
When ____________________ comes, it's time to come to God.
[2 Kings 4:27-30 ESV] And when she came to the mountain to the man of God, she caught hold of his feet. And Gehazi came to push her away. But the man of God said, "Leave her alone, for she is in bitter distress, and the LORD has hidden it from me and has not told me." [28] Then she said, "Did I ask my lord for a son? Did I not say, 'Do not deceive me?'" [29] He said to Gehazi, "Tie up your garment and take my staff in your hand and go. If you meet anyone, do not greet him, and if anyone greets you, do not reply. And lay my staff on the face of the child." [30] Then the mother of the child said, "As the LORD lives and as you yourself live, I will not leave you." So he arose and followed her.
God always has a ________________________ in the pain.
[2 Kings 4:32-35 ESV] When Elisha came into the house, he saw the child lying dead on his bed. [33] So he went in and shut the door behind the two of them and prayed to the LORD. [34] Then he went up and lay on the child, putting his mouth on his mouth, his eyes on his eyes, and his hands on his hands. And as he stretched himself upon him, the flesh of the child became warm. [35] Then he got up again and walked once back and forth in the house, and went up and stretched himself upon him. The child sneezed seven times, and the child opened his eyes.
God is the only one who can _______________ the unchangeable.
[Job 23:10b] And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold.
[Acts 3:19] Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away.
REPENTANCE IS A CHANGED _____________
[2 Corinthians 7:9-10 NIV] Yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. 10 ____________sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but ___________ sorrow brings death.
___________ is NOT repentance.
Repentance: deep sorrow, compunction, or contrition for a past sin, wrongdoing, or the like.
Regret for past action
Metanoia: a change of mind and determination to lead a better course of life.
REPENTANCE IS A CHANGED _____________
[Acts 26:20] I preached first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that all must repent of their sins and turn to God—and prove they have changed by the good things they do.
A divinely changed mind always results in changed behavior.
_________________ is demonstration of repentance.
[Luke 3:3] Then John went from place to place on both sides of the Jordan River, preaching that people should be baptized to show that they had repented of their sins and turned to God to be forgiven.
Romans 6:4 For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.
REPENTANCE RESTORES ___________________
[Luke 15:17] When he finally came to his senses, he said to himself, ‘At home even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here I am dying of hunger!
[Luke 15:20] “So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.
[Romans 2:4] Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?
_________________ leads to repentance.
[John 20:1-4] Early on Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. [2] She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, "They have taken the Lord's body out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!" [3] Peter and the other disciple started out for the tomb. [4] They were both running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.
No one _________________ Jesus would come to life again.
[John 20:8-9] Then the disciple who had reached the tomb first also went in, and he saw and believed-- [9] for until then they still hadn't understood the Scriptures that said Jesus must rise from the dead.
Jesus came to bring us _________________.
[Romans 6:4-5] For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives. [5] Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was.
God wants to fill the _________________ in your life.
[John 20:11, 14-16] Mary was standing outside the tomb crying, and as she wept, she stooped and looked in. [14] She turned to leave and saw someone standing there. It was Jesus, but she didn't recognize him. [15] "Dear woman, why are you crying?" Jesus asked her. "Who are you looking for?" She thought he was the gardener. "Sir," she said, "if you have taken him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him." [16] "Mary!" Jesus said. She turned to him and cried out, "Rabboni!" (which is Hebrew for "Teacher").
If Jesus defeated _________________ he can also defeat _________________ you face.
The Crucifixion shows the price was _________________ for our sin; and the Resurrection shows that Jesus really was the __________________________________.
[1 Corinthians 6:14 ESV] And God raised the Lord and will also raise us up by his power.
Jesus overcame the _________________, so I can overcome my _________________.
What does it mean to remain in Christ. Jesus tells us that if we remain in Him then He will remain in us and cause us to bear much fruit.
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Faith is being __________________ that something is __________________.
[Hebrews 11:1 NIV] Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
Faith is the most __________________ force known to man.
Every great achievement __________________ with someone who __________________ that it could happen.
[Matthew 17:20] "You don't have enough faith," Jesus told them. "I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it would move. Nothing would be impossible."
Mountains only move when people believe it is __________________.
[2 Corinthians 5:7 NIV] For we live by faith, not by sight.
We are to be people of __________________ not people of __________________.
[Romans 4:1-3] Abraham was, humanly speaking, the founder of our Jewish nation. What did he discover about being made right with God? [2] If his good deeds had made him acceptable to God, he would have had something to boast about. But that was not God's way. [3] For the Scriptures tell us, "Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith."
We are made __________________ with God when we __________________ in Him.
Faith that doesn't change my __________________ cannot change my __________________.
[Hebrews 11:6] And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
A ____________________ with God starts simply with trust.
[Romans 10:9-10] If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved.
The prefix "re-" means to "do something again; return to previous condition." In this series we explore different words in the Bible that start with the prefix "re-."
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
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Jesus came to be the _____________________ to our sin.
[John 14:4-6] And you know the way to where I am going." [5] "No, we don't know, Lord," Thomas said. "We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?" [6] Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.
Jesus is not ________________ way to God; He is the _______________ way.
[John 1:29] The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
Only Jesus can make us _____________________ with God.
[1 Timothy 2:5-6] For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity--the man Christ Jesus. [6] He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time.
Jesus didn't point to ___________________, He pointed to Himself.
Jesus offers freedom to _____________________.
[Hebrews 9:11-12] So Christ has now become the High Priest over all the good things that have come. He has entered that greater, more perfect Tabernacle in heaven, which was not made by human hands and is not part of this created world. [12] With his own blood--not the blood of goats and calves--he entered the Most Holy Place once for all time and secured our redemption forever.
Jesus' _____________________ made it possible for us to be made right with God.
[Romans 6:23] For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.
Jesus offers us a new _____________________, a new _____________________, and a new hope.
[2 Corinthians 5:17] This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
Jesus invites everyone to follow him. Being a sinner is a prerequisite. Having doubts is a prerequisite. That's because we're all sinners and we all have doubts.
Following Jesus results in overwhelming faith, but at times it can also be inconvenient, costly, and even embarrassing. It can cause us to miss opportunities, lose business, or stand out in the crowd when we'd rather fit in. Even Jesus' earliest followers wrestled with this tension. But one of his disciples asked a question that put everything in perspective: "To whom shall I go?"
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
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We aren’t ___________________ people; we are all guilty of sin.
[Romans 3:23] For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard.
None of us can ___________________ up to God's standard.
[Romans 6:23a] For the wages of sin is death...
Spiritual ___________________ is us being separated from God.
[1 John 1:8] If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.
Jesus didn't talk about sin to ___________________ people but to ___________________ them.
[Matthew 5:20-22, 27-28] "But I warn you--unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven! [21] "You have heard that our ancestors were told, 'You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.' [22] But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell. ... [27] "You have heard the commandment that says, 'You must not commit adultery.' [28] But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Jesus came to ___________________ the sinners.
God loves ___________________ up people.
[Romans 3:23-24] For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. [24] Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.
Only God can ___________________ our sin.
[1 John 1:9] But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.
Most of us don't become Christians with the intent of following Jesus. We become Christians because we are told obedience pays and disobedience doesn't. We become Christians hoping that spirituality will fill the holes in our souls. We become Christians hoping God will fix us. Eventually, our agendas clash with Jesus' agenda, and we have to decide whether we'll abandon him or follow.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
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The ____________________ is the Good News that we have victory through Jesus.
[Romans 1:16-17] For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes--the Jew first and also the Gentile. [17] This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, "It is through faith that a righteous person has life."
Every person was created to be ____________________ and ____________________.
God loves you because He ____________________ to.
[1 John 4:16] We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them.
God doesn't love you because of who _____________ _________, He loves you because of who ______________.
Our ___________________ does not make God love us less.
[Ephesians 3:18-19] And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. [19] May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.
God knows ____________________ about us and He still loves us.
[Romans 5:8] But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
Your ____________________ do not change your ____________________ to God.
[Romans 8:38-39] And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow--not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love. [39] No power in the sky above or in the earth below--indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
During his time on earth, Jesus invited misbehavers and unbelievers to follow him. We are all invited to follow him. You are invited to follow him, but there's something you need to know about following Jesus. It will cost you something eventually.
It may cost you money, career advancement, or even relationships. That's because Jesus offers us the choice of denying ourselves now or losing ourselves later. But you'll find that when you pay the price for following Jesus, you'll be glad you did.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
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Patience is the ability to endure hardships and challenges without _____________________.
[1 Samuel 10:1] Then Samuel took a flask of olive oil and poured it over Saul's head. He kissed Saul and said, "I am doing this because the LORD has appointed you to be the ruler over Israel, his special possession.
[1 Samuel 10:9-12] As Saul turned and started to leave, God gave him a new heart, and all Samuel's signs were fulfilled that day. [10] When Saul and his servant arrived at Gibeah, they saw a group of prophets coming toward them. Then the Spirit of God came powerfully upon Saul, and he, too, began to prophesy. [11] When those who knew Saul heard about it, they exclaimed, "What? Is even Saul a prophet? How did the son of Kish become a prophet?" [12] And one of those standing there said, "Can anyone become a prophet, no matter who his father is?" So that is the origin of the saying "Is even Saul a prophet?"
God always wants to _____________________ more through us than we ever could on our own.
Our God is a God of new _____________________.
[1 Samuel 13:7-12] Some of them crossed the Jordan River and escaped into the land of Gad and Gilead. Meanwhile, Saul stayed at Gilgal, and his men were trembling with fear. [8] Saul waited there seven days for Samuel, as Samuel had instructed him earlier, but Samuel still didn't come. Saul realized that his troops were rapidly slipping away. [9] So he demanded, "Bring me the burnt offering and the peace offerings!" And Saul sacrificed the burnt offering himself. [10] Just as Saul was finishing with the burnt offering, Samuel arrived. Saul went out to meet and welcome him, [11] but Samuel said, "What is this you have done?" Saul replied, "I saw my men scattering from me, and you didn't arrive when you said you would, and the Philistines are at Micmash ready for battle. [12] So I said, 'The Philistines are ready to march against us at Gilgal, and I haven't even asked for the LORD's help!' So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering myself before you came."
We need to put our eyes on ____________ not on the _____________________.
There is always a great _____________________ for those who wait on God.
[1 Samuel 13:13-14] "How foolish!" Samuel exclaimed. "You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you. Had you kept it, the LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. [14] But now your kingdom must end, for the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart. The LORD has already appointed him to be the leader of his people, because you have not kept the LORD's command."
Impatience often leads to _____________________.
[Galatians 6:9] So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up.
Religion says, Change and you can join us. Jesus says, Join us and you will change. There's a huge difference. Jesus doesn't expect you to be perfect. He just wants you to follow him. Being a sinner doesn't disqualify you from following him. Being an unbeliever doesn't disqualify you from following him. In fact, following almost always begins with a sinner taking one small step.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
If you would like to give financially you can do so here: https://thrive.church/give/
If you need any prayer you can send prayer requests here: https://thrivect.churchcenter.com/people/forms/13260
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Timelines don't matter when you are ___________________ God.
[1 Samuel 16:6-13] When they arrived, Samuel took one look at Eliab and thought, "Surely this is the LORD's anointed!" [7] But the LORD said to Samuel, "Don't judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." [8] Then Jesse told his son Abinadab to step forward and walk in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, "This is not the one the LORD has chosen." [9] Next Jesse summoned Shimea, but Samuel said, "Neither is this the one the LORD has chosen." [10] In the same way all seven of Jesse's sons were presented to Samuel. But Samuel said to Jesse, "The LORD has not chosen any of these." [11] Then Samuel asked, "Are these all the sons you have?" "There is still the youngest," Jesse replied. "But he's out in the fields watching the sheep and goats." "Send for him at once," Samuel said. "We will not sit down to eat until he arrives." [12] So Jesse sent for him. He was dark and handsome, with beautiful eyes. And the LORD said, "This is the one; anoint him." [13] So as David stood there among his brothers, Samuel took the flask of olive oil he had brought and anointed David with the oil. And the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon David from that day on. Then Samuel returned to Ramah.
Being ___________________ in the small things will often lead to being ___________________ in the big things.
[1 Samuel 24:3-4] At the place where the road passes some sheepfolds, Saul went into a cave to relieve himself. But as it happened, David and his men were hiding farther back in that very cave! [4] "Now's your opportunity!" David's men whispered to him. "Today the LORD is telling you, 'I will certainly put your enemy into your power, to do with as you wish.'" So David crept forward and cut off a piece of the hem of Saul's robe.
Patience is letting ______________ be ______________.
If God wants ___________________ to happen then He will make it happen.
[Psalm 31:14-16] But I am trusting you, O LORD, saying, "You are my God!" [15] My future is in your hands. Rescue me from those who hunt me down relentlessly. [16] Let your favor shine on your servant. In your unfailing love, rescue me.
We may be in such a ___________________ that we ___________________ God's blessing.
Lack of patience leads to ___________________.
[Psalm 37:7-8] Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act. Don't worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes. [8] Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper--it only leads to harm.
Everyone is invited to follow Jesus. Being a sinner doesn't disqualify you. Being a doubter doesn't disqualify you. The goal of following Jesus is a faith that overcomes our fear of the future or our current circumstances. It's a faith that gives us peace.
But what do people who follow Jesus look like? What do they wear?
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
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Patience is doing something __________________ for a long period of time.
[Genesis 12:1-4] The LORD had said to Abram, "Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father's family, and go to the land that I will show you. [2] I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. [3] I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through you." [4] So Abram departed as the LORD had instructed, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he left Haran.
God is never in a __________________.
[Galatians 4:22-23] The Scriptures say that Abraham had two sons, one from his slave wife and one from his freeborn wife. [23] The son of the slave wife was born in a human attempt to bring about the fulfillment of God's promise. But the son of the freeborn wife was born as God's own fulfillment of his promise.
Patience and __________________ go hand in hand.
[Hebrews 6:12 NIV] We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.
God is using your __________________ to shape you.
God is shaping you while you are _________________.
[Romans 8:25] But if we look forward to something we don't yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.)
We may be concerned with an __________________ but God is concerned with __________________.
[Philippians 1:6] And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
Jesus says to pray. Jesus says not to look over there. Jesus says to be nice. Jesus says to get up early and read your Bible. Lots of people think Christianity is all about doing what Jesus says. But what if doing what Jesus says isn't what Jesus says to do at all? Regardless of what you believe. Regardless of how you behave. Jesus invites you to follow him.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
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Many times, when you are going through difficulty, greater difficulty will come before ____________.
[Exodus 6:6-8] I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from slavery to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and great acts of judgment. I will take you to be my people and I will be your God, and you shall know that I am the LORD your God, who had brought you out from under the burden of the Egyptians. I will bring you into the land that I swore to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”
When you’re _________, God is working to set things up for your victory and his Glory!
- Moses ____________God
- Moses was ___________
- Moses __________ God
- Moses had __________ in God
[Deuteronomy 29:5] During the forty years that I led you through the wilderness, your clothes did not wear out, nor did the sandals on your feet.
Patience is trusting that God will _______while he makes you trust Him more while he ________ on you while you wait for him to ________.
[James 1:2-8] My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
Life is full of uncertainty. Daily situations beyond our control put us at risk for disappointment, failure, and regret. For most of us, bravery is not about staring death in the eye, but finding courage to face the everyday pressure and anxieties life throws our way.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
If you would like to give financially you can do so here: https://thrive.church/give/
If you need any prayer you can send prayer requests here: https://thrivect.churchcenter.com/people/forms/13260
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[Psalm 1:1-3] Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. [2] But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. [3] They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.
We don't meditate to ________________ our thoughts; we do it to fill our thoughts with ________________.
[Joshua 1:7-8] Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. [8] Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.
God is promising ________________ and ________________ for those who meditate on Scripture.
Meditation is what transforms ________________ into ________________.
[Isaiah 26:3] You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!
The path to ________________ begins with fixing your ________________ on God.
What you meditate on is what ________________ you.
[Psalm 119:11, 14-15] I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. ... [14] I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches. [15] I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways.
Memorizing Scripture gives ________________ to your soul.
[Hebrews 4:12] For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
It's not what you ________________ but what you ________________ that matters.
Life is full of uncertainty. Daily situations beyond our control put us at risk for disappointment, failure, and regret. For most of us, bravery is not about staring death in the eye, but finding courage to face the everyday pressure and anxieties life throws our way.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
If you would like to give financially you can do so here: https://thrive.church/give/
If you need any prayer you can send prayer requests here: https://thrivect.churchcenter.com/people/forms/13260
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[John 13:34-35] So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. [35] Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples."
Serving others is a _________________ way to show _________________.
[Mark 10:42-44] So Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. [43] But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, [44] and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else.
Greatness comes from _________________ others.
Pride says “serve _________________.” Humility says “serve _________________.”
[John 13:3-5, 12-15] Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God. [4] So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, [5] and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples' feet, drying them with the towel he had around him. ... [12] After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, "Do you understand what I was doing? [13] You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and you are right, because that's what I am. [14] And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other's feet. [15] I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.
Everyone _________________ out when you aren't using your _________________ for God's Kingdom.
[Romans 12:4-5] Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, [5] so it is with Christ's body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.
Serving is a _________________ of our love for God.
We can accomplish _________________ _______________ when we work together.
[Matthew 9:37-38]
He said to his disciples, "The harvest is great, but the workers are few. [38] So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields."
Life is full of uncertainty. Daily situations beyond our control put us at risk for disappointment, failure, and regret. For most of us, bravery is not about staring death in the eye, but finding courage to face the everyday pressure and anxieties life throws our way.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
If you would like to give financially you can do so here: https://thrive.church/give/
If you need any prayer you can send prayer requests here: https://thrivect.churchcenter.com/people/forms/13260
Stay connected with us throughout the week:
Website: https://thrive.church
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The ___________ is God's representative here on the earth.
[Proverbs 11:24-25] Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything. [25] The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.
Generosity attracts God's _____________________.
We have to let go of what we _____________________ in order to receive what we _____________________ have.
[2 Corinthians 9:6-8] Remember this--a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. [7] You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." [8] And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.
God always _____________________ generosity.
[1 Kings 17:12-14] But she said, "I swear by the LORD your God that I don't have a single piece of bread in the house. And I have only a handful of flour left in the jar and a little cooking oil in the bottom of the jug. I was just gathering a few sticks to cook this last meal, and then my son and I will die." [13] But Elijah said to her, "Don't be afraid! Go ahead and do just what you've said, but make a little bread for me first. Then use what's left to prepare a meal for yourself and your son. [14] For this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: There will always be flour and olive oil left in your containers until the time when the LORD sends rain and the crops grow again!"
God always _____________________ when you chose generosity.
[1 Timothy 6:17-19] Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. [18] Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. [19] By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.
It is critically _____________________ for us to be generous.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
If you would like to give financially you can do so here: https://thrive.church/give/
If you need any prayer you can send prayer requests here: https://thrivect.churchcenter.com/people/forms/13260
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[Hebrews 10:24-25] Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. [25] And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.
Church isn't something you ________________, it's something you ________________.
Following Jesus is not a ________________ activity.
[John 13:34-35] So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. [35] Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples."
Following Jesus should be our primary ________________.
[Galatians 3:26-28] For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. [27] And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. [28] There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.
You are _____________________ to the community of God.
[John 1:12] But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.
You cannot adequately live the Christian life without other ____________________.
[Ecclesiastes 4:9-12] Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. [10] If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. [11] Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? [12] A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
There's a big difference between ________________ to church and ________________ the church.
It's time to get off the ________________ and get involved!
[Jeremiah 17:8] They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit.
Have you ever noticed how TV and media portrays dads? Usually dads are shown as weak & incapable of making tiny decision and they try to get out of spending time with kids in favor of work, beer, sports, or a cute neighbor.
Being a dad is actually the greatest calling that a man can have. In this sermon we explore what God’s Word says about fathers and the 2 most important questions that every father needs to answer for his children.
Each week at ThriveChurch you can expect hot coffee, live music, Bible teaching that applies to your life, casual dress, warm and loving childcare, and a free gift for all first-time guests.
If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
If you would like to give financially you can do so here: https://thrive.church/give/
If you need any prayer you can send prayer requests here: https://thrivect.churchcenter.com/people/forms/13260
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Sharing your faith is more about the ___________________ and less about the ___________________.
[Mark 10:21-22] Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him. "There is still one thing you haven't done," he told him. "Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." [22] At this the man's face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.
It's not your job to ___________________ anyone to follow Jesus.
[John 1:40-46] Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of these men who heard what John said and then followed Jesus. [41] Andrew went to find his brother, Simon, and told him, "We have found the Messiah" (which means "Christ"). [42] Then Andrew brought Simon to meet Jesus. Looking intently at Simon, Jesus said, "Your name is Simon, son of John--but you will be called Cephas" (which means "Peter").
We are all called to be an ___________________ like Andrew was.
If you believe in God, you cannot keep ________________.
Jesus ___________________ and ___________________ the people others overlook.
[Matthew 4:19 ESV] And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
If we can get our friends in the ___________________ of Jesus, He will change them.
[Mark 16:15] And then he told them, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.
Jesus is better experienced than ___________________.
[Psalm 34:8] Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Maybe the very ___________________ that you think disqualifies you is the thing that ___________________ you.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon to YouTube, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah concludes the series, Family Circus.
If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
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You are one _______________ _______________ away from changing your life.
[Zechariah 4:6-10 CSB] So he answered me, "This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: 'Not by strength or by might, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD of Armies. [7] "'What are you, great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become a plain. And he will bring out the capstone accompanied by shouts of: Grace, grace to it! '" [8] Then the word of the LORD came to me: [9] "Zerubbabel's hands have laid the foundation of this house, and his hands will complete it. Then you will know that the LORD of Armies has sent me to you. [10] "For who despises the day of small things? These seven eyes of the LORD, which scan throughout the whole earth, will rejoice when they see the ceremonial stone in Zerubbabel's hand."
God loves to use the small __________________ to do _______________ things.
[Psalm 118:22-23] The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone. [23] This is the LORD's doing, and it is wonderful to see.
It's time to take a small step and put _______________ _______________.
[Matthew 6:33 NIV] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Never underestimate the power of _______________ small steps taken in the same _______________.
[Psalm 119:105] Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
God specializes in taking the small things and making them _______________.
[1 Timothy 4:8-10] "Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come." [9] This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it. [10] This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon to YouTube, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah continues the series, Family Circus. If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
If you would like to give financially you can do so here: https://thrive.church/give/
If you need any prayer you can send prayer requests here: https://thrive.church/pray
Stay connected with us throughout the week:
Website: https://thrive.church
Facebook: http://thrv.ch/facebook
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Real hope is an expectation based on the _______________ of God.
[Hebrews 6:18c-19] Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. [19] This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God’s inner sanctuary.
You can overcome storms in life when you're anchored to _______________.
[Psalm 42:5 BSB] Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why the unease within me? Put your hope in God...
There are no hopeless _______________, only _______________ who have become hopeless.
[2 Thessalonians 2:16-17] Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope, [17] comfort you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say.
True hope means hoping when things are _______________.
My hope goes deeper than _______________ that I face.
[Hebrews 10:23] Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.
You won't _______________ when you're anchored to hope.
[Romans 15:13] I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.
I have a hope that the world did not _______________ and the world can’t _______________ away.
[Psalm 27:1a] The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid?
[Isaiah 9:2] The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness,a light will shine.
[John 1:1-6] In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. [2] He existed in the beginning with God. [3] God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. [4] The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.
[Ephesians 5:8] For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
If you would like to give financially you can do so here: https://thrive.church/give/
If you need any prayer you can send prayer requests here: https://thrivect.churchcenter.com/people/forms/13260
Stay connected with us throughout the week:
Website: https://thrive.church
Facebook: http://thrv.ch/facebook
Instagram: http://thrv.ch/insta
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Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon to YouTube, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah continues the series, Family Circus. If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
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The world can't live without _______________.
[Romans 15:13] I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.
You can live with hope or you can live with _____________.
[Romans 8:24-25] We were given this hope when we were saved. (If we already have something, we don't need to hope for it. [25] But if we look forward to something we don't yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.)
Hope always requires _____________________.
[Matthew 1:19-21] Joseph, her fiancé, was a good man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly. [20] As he considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. "Joseph, son of David," the angel said, "do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit. [21] And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins."
We can have hope even when our _____________________ don't change.
Christmas reminds us that we can have hope in the _______________ _______________.
[Colossians 1:27 NIV] To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
My hope is in _________________ not _________________.
[John 3:16-17 NLT] [16] "For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. [17] God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon to YouTube, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah continues the series, Family Circus.
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[Philippians 4:4] Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again--rejoice!
Happiness is ___________________ but joy comes from ___________________.
[Luke 1:28-31] Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you!" [29] Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. [30] "Don't be afraid, Mary," the angel told her, "for you have found favor with God! [31] You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus.
[Luke 1:36-38] What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month. [37] For nothing is impossible with God." [38] Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." And then the angel left her.
Praising God in the middle of ___________________ times brings joy.
[Luke 1:46-48] Mary responded, "Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. [47] How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior! [48] For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and from now on all generations will call me blessed.
Joy gives us the ___________________ we need.
[Nehemiah 8:10c] Don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!"
Don't let the _______________ _______________ your joy.
[Psalm 30:5] For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.
Jesus is the ___________ _________ who can bring us joy.
[Luke 2:8-12] That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. [9] Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terrified, [10] but the angel reassured them. "Don't be afraid!" he said. "I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. [11] The Savior--yes, the Messiah, the Lord--has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! [12] And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger."
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah starts the series, Family Circus.
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[Isaiah 9:2] The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.
God came for those living in ___________________.
[Romans 3:23] For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard.
If Jesus hadn't come there would be no ________________.
Zechariah 3:1-5 CSB Then he showed me the high priest Joshua standing before the angel of the Lord, with Satan standing at his right side to accuse him. 2 The Lord said to Satan: “The Lord rebuke you, Satan! May the Lord who has chosen Jerusalem rebuke you! Isn’t this man a burning stick snatched from the fire?” 3 Now Joshua was dressed with filthy clothes as he stood before the angel. 4 So the angel of the Lord spoke to those standing before him, “Take off his filthy clothes!” Then he said to him, “See, I have removed your iniquity from you, and I will clothe you with festive robes.” 5 Then I said, “Let them put a clean turban on his head.” So a clean turban was placed on his head, and they clothed him in garments while the angel of the Lord was standing nearby.
God's forgiveness is more powerful than the ______________________ of the devil.
We are all ___________________ until made innocent.
[Isaiah 9:6-7a] For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. [7] His government and its peace will never end.
Only the Prince of Peace can bring ___________________ in the middle of ___________________.
[Luke 1:78-79] Because of God’s tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, 79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace.”
Because of God's ___________________ we can experience peace.
God loves to use ___________________ people.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah celebrates Mother's Day 2015.
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Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
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Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah concludes the series, Ghost Stories.
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Humans are ___________________ in the animal kingdom!
[Genesis 2:7] Then the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man's nostrils, and the man became a living person.
Scientists have discovered that the human body is composed of ________ ___________________ all found in the earth.
[Genesis 2:21-22] So the LORD God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep. While the man slept, the LORD God took out one of the man's ribs and closed up the opening. [22] Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib, and he brought her to the man.
The only ___________________ capable of regenerating itself is the ___________________.
[Exodus 4:11] Then the LORD asked Moses, "Who makes a person's mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the LORD?
Only God could create an organ as complex as an ___________________ or a ___________________.
[Proverbs 2:6] For the LORD grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
You cannot get ___________________ and ___________________ from randomness.
A single ___________________ contains all of the information required to create a human ________________.
The fact that you are here and a live is a _______________.
[Psalm 100:1-5] A psalm of thanksgiving. Shout with joy to the LORD, all the earth! [2] Worship the LORD with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy. [3] Acknowledge that the LORD is God! He made us, and we are his. We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. [4] Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. [5] For the LORD is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, guest speaker Darren Hale continues the series, Ghost Stories.
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Believing something without __________________ is a __________________.
True __________________ helps us learn more about God and the universe that He created.
[Genesis 1:1-5] In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. [2] The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. [3] Then God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. [4] And God saw that the light was good. Then he separated the light from the darkness. [5] God called the light "day" and the darkness "night." And evening passed and morning came, marking the first day.
The focal point of the Bible is __________________.
[Job 38:4-7] "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell me, if you know so much. [5] Who determined its dimensions and stretched out the surveying line? [6] What supports its foundations, and who laid its cornerstone [7] as the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?
Our universe is a precise __________________ that keeps perfect __________________.
[Hebrews 3:4] For every house has a builder, but the one who built everything is God.
It takes more faith to believe in a universe made by _______________ than one made by a __________________.
[Romans 1:20] For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.
Even claiming that there are laws in the universe demonstrates a need for a “__________________.”
[John 1:1-4] In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. [2] He existed in the beginning with God. [3] God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. [4] The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone.
Only God has the power to give something ________________.
[Ephesians 2:4-6] But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, [5] that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's grace that you have been saved!) [6] For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah continues the series, Ghost Stories.
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Science is simply a systematic pursuit of _______________.
It is impossible for men to write Scriptures without _______________ _______________.
God's Word will always stand test of _______________.
[Isaiah 40:22] God sits above the circle of the earth. The people below seem like grasshoppers to him! He spreads out the heavens like a curtain and makes his tent from them.
[Job 26:7-8] God stretches the northern sky over empty space and hangs the earth on nothing. [8] He wraps the rain in his thick clouds, and the clouds don't burst with the weight.
True science is not in ___________________ to God's Word.
[Job 36:27-28] He draws up the water vapor and then distills it into rain. [28] The rain pours down from the clouds, and everyone benefits.
[Jeremiah 33:22] And as the stars of the sky cannot be counted and the sand on the seashore cannot be measured, so I will multiply the descendants of my servant David and the Levites who minister before me."
Science is always _______________, but God's Word stays the _______________.
[Isaiah 40:8] The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever."
The Bible is more scientifically __________________ than any other ancient document.
[Hebrews 4:12-13] For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. [13] Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable.
Only the _______________ has the power to _______________ your life.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah starts a new series, Ghost Stories.
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[Judges 3:12] Once again the Israelites did evil in the LORD's sight, and the LORD gave King Eglon of Moab control over Israel because of their evil.
If we turn our back on God He may allow us to hit ___________-__________________.
[Judges 3:15-17] But when the people of Israel cried out to the LORD for help, the LORD again raised up a rescuer to save them. His name was Ehud son of Gera, a left-handed man of the tribe of Benjamin. The Israelites sent Ehud to deliver their tribute money to King Eglon of Moab. [16] So Ehud made a double-edged dagger that was about a foot long, and he strapped it to his right thigh, keeping it hidden under his clothing. [17] He brought the tribute money to Eglon, who was very fat.
Stop trying to __________________ in when you were created to __________________ out.
[2 Corinthians 12:9] Each time he said, "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness." So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.
Sometimes God wants to do something __________________ through someone __________________.
[Judges 3:18-23 NIV] After Ehud had presented the tribute, he sent on their way those who had carried it. [19] But on reaching the stone images near Gilgal he himself went back to Eglon and said, "Your Majesty, I have a secret message for you." The king said to his attendants, "Leave us!" And they all left.
[Joshua 4:20-24] It was there at Gilgal that Joshua piled up the twelve stones taken from the Jordan River. [21] Then Joshua said to the Israelites, "In the future your children will ask, 'What do these stones mean?' [22] Then you can tell them, 'This is where the Israelites crossed the Jordan on dry ground.' [23] For the LORD your God dried up the river right before your eyes, and he kept it dry until you were all across, just as he did at the Red Sea when he dried it up until we had all crossed over. [24] He did this so all the nations of the earth might know that the LORD's hand is powerful, and so you might fear the LORD your God forever."
We can find faith for the __________________ by remembering God's faithfulness in the __________________.
[Judges 3:20-23 NIV] Ehud then approached him while he was sitting alone in the upper room of his palace and said, "I have a message from God for you." As the king rose from his seat, [21] Ehud reached with his left hand, drew the sword from his right thigh and plunged it into the king's belly. [22] Even the handle sank in after the blade, and his bowels discharged. Ehud did not pull the sword out, and the fat closed in over it. [23] Then Ehud went out to the porch; he shut the doors of the upper room behind him and locked them.
Other people’s __________________ of your __________________ doesn’t impact how God sees you.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah celebrates Easter 2015.
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[Judges 4:1-3] After Ehud's death, the Israelites again did evil in the LORD's sight. [2] So the LORD turned them over to King Jabin of Hazor, a Canaanite king. The commander of his army was Sisera, who lived in Harosheth-haggoyim. [3] Sisera, who had 900 iron chariots, ruthlessly oppressed the Israelites for twenty years. Then the people of Israel cried out to the LORD for help.
An __________ is anything that clouds our ___________ of God.
God has a _________ ________ in His heart for when you call out to Him.
[Judges 4:4-7] Deborah, the wife of Lappidoth, was a prophet who was judging Israel at that time. [5] She would sit under the Palm of Deborah, between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites would go to her for judgment. [6] One day she sent for Barak son of Abinoam, who lived in Kedesh in the land of Naphtali. She said to him, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, commands you: Call out 10,000 warriors from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun at Mount Tabor. [7] And I will call out Sisera, commander of Jabin's army, along with his chariots and warriors, to the Kishon River. There I will give you victory over him."
God is the great _________________ and has made us all _________________ in His eyes.
[Galatians 3:26-28] For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. [27] And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. [28] There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Step out in ____________________ when God calls you to do something!
[Judges 4:8-10] Barak told her, "I will go, but only if you go with me." [9] "Very well," she replied, "I will go with you. But you will receive no honor in this venture, for the LORD's victory over Sisera will be at the hands of a woman." So Deborah went with Barak to Kedesh. [10] At Kedesh, Barak called together the tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali, and 10,000 warriors went up with him. Deborah also went with him.
If God wants to work through someone and they _____________, He will just use someone ___________.
[Judges 4:17-21] Meanwhile, Sisera ran to the tent of Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite, because Heber's family was on friendly terms with King Jabin of Hazor. [18] Jael went out to meet Sisera and said to him, "Come into my tent, sir. Come in. Don't be afraid." So he went into her tent, and she covered him with a blanket. [19] "Please give me some water," he said. "I'm thirsty." So she gave him some milk from a leather bag and covered him again. [20] "Stand at the door of the tent," he told her. "If anybody comes and asks you if there is anyone here, say no." [21] But when Sisera fell asleep from exhaustion, Jael quietly crept up to him with a hammer and tent peg in her hand. Then she drove the tent peg through his temple and into the ground, and so he died.
[Judges 5:24] "Most blessed among women is Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite. May she be blessed above all women who live in tents.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah celebrates Palm Sunday 2015.
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[Hebrews 11:32-34] How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets. [33] By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, [34] quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight.
God is always willing to _________________ those who call on Him for help.
[Judges 10:18] The leaders of Gilead said to each other, "Whoever attacks the Ammonites first will become ruler over all the people of Gilead."
God is looking to use people with godly ________________.
[Judges 11:1-3] Now Jephthah of Gilead was a great warrior. He was the son of Gilead, but his mother was a prostitute. [2] Gilead's wife also had several sons, and when these half brothers grew up, they chased Jephthah off the land. "You will not get any of our father's inheritance," they said, "for you are the son of a prostitute." [3] So Jephthah fled from his brothers and lived in the land of Tob. Soon he had a band of worthless rebels following him.
Your past does not have to ________________ your future!
[Judges 11:4-8] At about this time, the Ammonites began their war against Israel. [5] When the Ammonites attacked, the elders of Gilead sent for Jephthah in the land of Tob. The elders said, [6] "Come and be our commander! Help us fight the Ammonites!" [7] But Jephthah said to them, "Aren't you the ones who hated me and drove me from my father's house? Why do you come to me now when you're in trouble?" [8] "Because we need you," the elders replied. "If you lead us in battle against the Ammonites, we will make you ruler over all the people of Gilead."
Only God can turn rejection into _________________.
[Judges 11:30-32 NIV] And Jephthah made a vow to the LORD: "If you give the Ammonites into my hands, [31] whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the LORD's, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering." [32] Then Jephthah went over to fight the Ammonites, and the LORD gave them into his hands.
We need to always choose our _________________ wisely.
_________________ can bring us closer to God.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah concludes the series, Urban Legends. Frogs? What's that about frogs?
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[Judges 6:11-12] Then the angel of the LORD came and sat beneath the great tree at Ophrah, which belonged to Joash of the clan of Abiezer. Gideon son of Joash was threshing wheat at the bottom of a winepress to hide the grain from the Midianites. [12] The angel of the LORD appeared to him and said, "Mighty hero, the LORD is with you!"
God calls us for who we will ___________________ not for who we ___________________.
[Judges 6:13] "Sir," Gideon replied, "if the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us? And where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? Didn't they say, 'The LORD brought us up out of Egypt'? But now the LORD has abandoned us and handed us over to the Midianites."
God will often show up when we are at our _____________.
[Judges 6:14] Then the LORD turned to him and said, "Go with the strength you have, and rescue Israel from the Midianites. I am sending you!"
With God you have _____________ ____________ enough.
[Judges 7:2] The LORD said to Gideon, "You have too many warriors with you. If I let all of you fight the Midianites, the Israelites will boast to me that they saved themselves by their own strength.
Sometimes God will ask you to do something that ___________________ make ___________________.
[Judges 7:19-22] It was just after midnight, after the changing of the guard, when Gideon and the 100 men with him reached the edge of the Midianite camp. Suddenly, they blew the rams' horns and broke their clay jars. [20] Then all three groups blew their horns and broke their jars. They held the blazing torches in their left hands and the horns in their right hands, and they all shouted, "A sword for the LORD and for Gideon!" [21] Each man stood at his position around the camp and watched as all the Midianites rushed around in a panic, shouting as they ran to escape. [22] When the 300 Israelites blew their rams' horns, the LORD caused the warriors in the camp to fight against each other with their swords. Those who were not killed fled to places as far away as Beth-shittah near Zererah and to the border of Abel-meholah near Tabbath.
God loves to use ___________________ means to accomplish his purpose.
With God you are the ___________________.
[Philippians 1:6] And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, guest speaker Darren Hale continues the series, Urban Legends. Do we have only 5 senses?
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[Psalm 37:23] The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.
God __________________ in opening doors for the godly to walk through.
[Acts 16:6-9] Next Paul and Silas traveled through the area of Phrygia and Galatia, because the Holy Spirit had prevented them from preaching the word in the province of Asia at that time. [7] Then coming to the borders of Mysia, they headed north for the province of Bithynia, but again the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them to go there. [8] So instead, they went on through Mysia to the seaport of Troas. [9] That night Paul had a vision: A man from Macedonia in northern Greece was standing there, pleading with him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us!"
The __________________ of an open door does not __________________ you should go through it.
Does the door go against __________________?
[Psalm 119:105] Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
God will __________________ give you an open door that goes against His Word.
[Proverbs 12:15] Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others.
Does the door bring __________________ to God or you?
Do you have __________________ about walking through the door?
[2 Corinthians 2:12-13] When I came to the city of Troas to preach the Good News of Christ, the Lord opened a door of opportunity for me. [13] But I had no peace of mind because my dear brother Titus hadn't yet arrived with a report from you. So I said good-bye and went on to Macedonia to find him.
God usually doesn't __________________ why a door closes.
[Proverbs 20:24] The LORD directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way?
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah continues the series, Urban Legends. Can cell phones pop balloons?
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[Romans 11:33] Oh, how great are God's riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways!
There is no way we can know ___________________ about God.
[Isaiah 55:8-9] "My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts," says the LORD. "And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. [9] For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.
God isn't trying to ___________________ from you.
God is always true to His ___________________.
[2 Peter 1:3-5] By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. [4] And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world's corruption caused by human desires. [5] In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God's promises.
God works through ___________________ like you.
[John 14:12] "I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.
Everything God does is ___________________.
[Psalm 107:1 NLT] Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.
God wants to ___________________ Himself to you.
[Philippians 3:8-11]Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ [9] and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God's way of making us right with himself depends on faith. [10] I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, [11] so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon to YouTube, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah starts a new series, Urban Legends. Are haunted houses real?
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[Matthew 18:20 CSB] "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there among them."
In order to understand a Bible verse you must read the verses _________________ and _________________ it.
[Matthew 18:15-20 CSB] "If your brother sins against you, go and rebuke him in private. If he listens to you, you have won your brother. [16] "But if he won't listen, take one or two others with you, so that by the testimony of two or three witnesses every fact may be established. [17] "If he doesn't pay attention to them, tell the church. If he doesn't pay attention even to the church, let him be like a Gentile and a tax collector to you. [18] "Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will have been loosed in heaven. [19] "Again, truly I tell you, if two of you on earth agree about any matter that you pray for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. [20] "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there among them."
We point out sin to bring _______________ not condemnation.
The omnipresence of God assures us that He is ____________ us even when we're _________________.
[Proverbs 15:3 NLT] The LORD is watching everywhere, keeping his eye on both the evil and the good.
There is nothing that is _________________ from God.
[Psalm 139:7-10 NLT] I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! [8] If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. [9] If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, [10] even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me.
[Jonah 1:3 NLT] But Jonah got up and went in the opposite direction to get away from the LORD. He went down to the port of Joppa, where he found a ship leaving for Tarshish. He bought a ticket and went on board, hoping to escape from the LORD by sailing to Tarshish.
There is nowhere you can go that _________________ you from God's presence.
[Psalm 46:1 NIV] God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
When you're in trouble God is only a ________________ away.
God is here even if you can't ________________ His presence.
[Acts 17:27 NLT] "His purpose was for the nations to seek after God and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him--though he is not far from any one of us.
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[Proverbs 6:6-11] Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise! [7] Though they have no prince or governor or ruler to make them work, [8] they labor hard all summer, gathering food for the winter. [9] But you, lazybones, how long will you sleep? When will you wake up? [10] A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest-- [11] then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber.
God is able to help __________________ He wants.
Following Jesus is about living a __________________ life.
[Titus 3:4-5] But--"When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, [5] he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.
We can't rely on ourselves or our actions for our __________________.
God helps those who take __________________.
[James 2:26] Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.
God helps those who are __________________.
[James 4:6] But he gives us even more grace to stand against such evil desires. As the Scriptures say, "God opposes the proud but favors the humble."
God helps those who _________________ help themselves.
[Isaiah 25:4] But you are a tower of refuge to the poor, O LORD, a tower of refuge to the needy in distress. You are a refuge from the storm and a shelter from the heat. For the oppressive acts of ruthless people are like a storm beating against a wall.
God helps those who __________________.
[James 4:2c] Yet you don't have what you want because you don't ask God for it.
God helps those who help __________________.
[Luke 6:38 NIV]
Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
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Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. This 2015 sermon continues a study into the Book of Proverbs.
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[Matthew 6:9-13 NIV] "This, then, is how you should pray: " 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, [10] your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. [11] Give us today our daily bread. [12] And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. [13] And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.'
We have an ________________ who wants to ________________ us.
[1 Peter 5:8] Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.
God has made us _______________ not _______________.
[2 Thessalonians 3:3] But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.
God alone can ________________ us from the attacks of the evil one.
[1 John 4:4] But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.
________________ is ours through Jesus Christ.
[1 John 2:14] I have written to you who are God's children because you know the Father. I have written to you who are mature in the faith because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning. I have written to you who are young in the faith because you are strong. God's word lives in your hearts, and you have won your battle with the evil one.
God's ________________ in your heart will help you win the ________________ against the evil one.
God is never taken by __________________ by the issues you face.
[1 John 5:4-5 NIV]
for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. [5] Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.
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[Matthew 6:9-13 NIV] "This, then, is how you should pray: " 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, [10] your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. [11] Give us today our daily bread. [12] And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. [13] And lead us not into temptation...
God has given us ____________ ____________ but that comes with temptation to do wrong.
[James 1:13-15] And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, "God is tempting me." God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. [14] Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. [15] These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.
It is impossible to be tempted by something you don't ____________________.
[Mark 7:15] It's not what goes into your body that defiles you; you are defiled by what comes from your heart."
Don't blame the _______________ for the bad choices you made.
[1 Corinthians 10:12-13] If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. [13] The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
You cannot _______________ temptation but you can __________________ it.
You can _______________ the temptations that come your way.
[James 1:12] God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
God will _______________ you for resisting temptation.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. This 2015 sermon continues a study into the Book of Proverbs.
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[Matthew 6:9-12 NIV] "This, then, is how you should pray: " 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, [10] your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. [11] Give us today our daily bread. [12] And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
We all have a debt of ____________ that we cannot pay.
[Romans 3:23] For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard.
We tend to _______________ when our sins are forgiven but ________________ when we have to forgive others.
[Matthew 6:14-15] "If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. [15] But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.
God's forgiveness __________________ on your willingness to forgive others.
God wants us to be slow to be __________________ and quick to __________________.
[Matthew 18:32-35] Then the king called in the man he had forgiven and said, 'You evil servant! I forgave you that tremendous debt because you pleaded with me. [33] Shouldn't you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?' [34] Then the angry king sent the man to prison to be tortured until he had paid his entire debt. [35] "That's what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart."
It's hard for us to forgive until we understand the __________________ of our sin.
[Romans 13:8] Owe nothing to anyone--except for your obligation to love one another.
Forgiveness has the power to __________________ or __________________ every relationship in your life.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This 2015 sermon continues a study into the Book of Proverbs.
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The goal of prayer is to get __________________ to God not to get things.
God's __________________ don't always come in the way that we __________________.
[Matthew 6:9-11 NIV] "This, then, is how you should pray: " 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, [10] your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. [11] Give us today our daily bread.
God cares about your __________________ needs.
[Exodus 16:4-5] Then the LORD said to Moses, "Look, I'm going to rain down food from heaven for you. Each day the people can go out and pick up as much food as they need for that day. I will test them in this to see whether or not they will follow my instructions. [5] On the sixth day they will gather food, and when they prepare it, there will be twice as much as usual."
When God is your _____________ you'll never run _______.
[Philippians 4:19 CSB] And my God will supply all your needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
God may not give us what we need for _________________ but He will definitely give us what we need for __________.
[Matthew 6:31-34] "So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' [32] These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. [33] Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. [34] "So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today.
Jesus is the __________________ of Life.
[John 6:48-51] Yes, I am the bread of life! [49] Your ancestors ate manna in the wilderness, but they all died. [50] Anyone who eats the bread from heaven, however, will never die. [51] I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live forever; and this bread, which I will offer so the world may live, is my flesh."
God wants you to trust in the __________________ not the __________________.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon to YouTube, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, we are going to the start of 2015.
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[Matthew 6:9-10 NIV] "This, then, is how you should pray: " 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, [10] your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
We should pray for God's will in every __________________ that we face.
[James 4:2-3] You want what you don't have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can't get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don't have what you want because you don't ask God for it. [3] And even when you ask, you don't get it because your motives are all wrong--you want only what will give you pleasure.
God knows our __________________ and cannot be __________________.
[Proverbs 19:21] You can make many plans, but the LORD's purpose will prevail.
You may think your will is __________________ but God's plan is always __________________.
When you begin to __________________ God's will He will __________________ you.
[Proverbs 3:5-6] Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. [6] Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
God always __________________ prayers that line up with His will.
[1 John 5:14-15 NIV] This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. [15] And if we know that he hears us--whatever we ask--we know that we have what we asked of him.
“Your will be done” is a statement of __________________.
[Psalm 37:4] Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart's desires.
If we __________________ in Him we will have the right __________________.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Thrive's first Christmas service entitled "God With Us".
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There is no __________________ that you face that __________________ cannot handle.
[Matthew 6:9-10 NIV] "This, then, is how you should pray: " 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, [10] your kingdom come...
God's Kingdom is a __________________ kingdom which is ruled and controlled by Him.
[Daniel 2:44] "During the reigns of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed or conquered. It will crush all these kingdoms into nothingness, and it will stand forever.
Jesus came to establish His ______________ here on earth.
[John 18:36] Jesus answered, "My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world."
We are called to be _________________ of God's kingdom.
God's kingdom __________________ all earthly kingdoms.
[Matthew 13:31-32] Here is another illustration Jesus used: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. [32] It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches."
Pray for _______ ____________ to come into the Kingdom.
Pray for the expansion of the __________________.
[Luke 10:1-2] The Lord now chose seventy-two other disciples and sent them ahead in pairs to all the towns and places he planned to visit. [2] These were his instructions to them: "The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.
Pray for __________________ who work to expand God's Church.
The work of the Kingdom is accomplished by it's __________________.
[Isaiah 6:8] Then I heard the Lord asking, "Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?" I said, "Here I am. Send me."
God wants to use us to __________________ His Kingdom.
[Matthew 11:12 GW] From the time of John the Baptizer until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful people have been seizing it.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah concludes the new series, Present Tense, leading in the the 2014 Christmas holiday.
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[Luke 11:1] Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples."
Prayer is not an _________________, it is a _________________.
[Matthew 6:5-8] "When you pray, don't be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get. [6] But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. [7] "When you pray, don't babble on and on as people of other religions do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again. [8] Don't be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him!
Prayer is not a _________________ to get the things that we want.
[Matthew 6:9] Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy.
Followers of Jesus are not meant to live in _________________.
[John 8:42-44] Jesus told them, "If God were your Father, you would love me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me. [43] Why can't you understand what I am saying? It's because you can't even hear me! [44] For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.
God is a good _________________ and He loves you.
God's name is _________________ and He is worthy of our _________________.
[Psalm 100:4] Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name.
Praise puts God at the _________________ of our prayer rather than ourself.
[Hebrews 13:15] Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name.
You can't praise God when there is _________________ in your _________________.
Real relationships always require _________________.
[Hebrews 4:16]
So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah continues the series, Present Tense, leading in the the 2014 Christmas holiday.
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[Daniel 6:4-5] Then the other administrators and high officers began searching for some fault in the way Daniel was handling government affairs, but they couldn’t find anything to criticize or condemn. He was faithful, always responsible, and completely trustworthy. [5] Then these men said, “We shall not find any ground for complaint against this Daniel unless we find it in connection with the law of his God.”
Faithfulness in small things is _____________for the hard times that will come.
[Daniel 6:16] So at last the king gave orders for Daniel to be arrested and thrown into the den of lions. The king said to him, “May your God, whom you serve so faithfully, rescue you.”
A life lived in _________ and _________will help you live a bold life and __________ when times are difficult.
[Daniel 6:19-23] Very early the next morning, the king got up and hurried out to the lions’ den. When he got there, he called out in anguish, “Daniel, servant of the living God! Was your God, whom you serve so faithfully, able to rescue you from the lions?” [21] Daniel answered, “Long live the king! [22] My God sent his angel to shut the lions’ mouths so that they would not hurt me, for I have been found innocent in his sight. And I have not wronged you, Your Majesty.” [23] The king was overjoyed and ordered that Daniel be lifted from the den. Not a scratch was found on him, for he had trusted in his God.
A life lived free of hypocrisy will _________people to God. Because they will see the ________ of God in your life.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of bringing every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah opens the series, Present Tense, leading in the the 2014 Christmas holiday.
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We should stand for what is _______________ regardless of the consequences.
[Daniel 5:1-6] Many years later King Belshazzar gave a great feast for 1,000 of his nobles, and he drank wine with them. [2] While Belshazzar was drinking the wine, he gave orders to bring in the gold and silver cups that his predecessor, Nebuchadnezzar, had taken from the Temple in Jerusalem. He wanted to drink from them with his nobles, his wives, and his concubines. [3] So they brought these gold cups taken from the Temple, the house of God in Jerusalem, and the king and his nobles, his wives, and his concubines drank from them. [4] While they drank from them they praised their idols made of gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone. [5] Suddenly, they saw the fingers of a human hand writing on the plaster wall of the king's palace, near the lampstand. The king himself saw the hand as it wrote, [6] and his face turned pale with fright. His knees knocked together in fear and his legs gave way beneath him.
God gives _______________ and _______________ to those who honor Him.
God will bring ___________ those who ____________ Him.
[Daniel 5:25-29] "This is the message that was written: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, and PARSIN. [26] This is what these words mean: [Mene] means 'numbered'--God has numbered the days of your reign and has brought it to an end. [27] [Tekel] means 'weighed'--you have been weighed on the balances and have not measured up. [28] [Parsin] means 'divided'--your kingdom has been divided and given to the Medes and Persians." [29] Then at Belshazzar's command, Daniel was dressed in purple robes, a gold chain was hung around his neck, and he was proclaimed the third highest ruler in the kingdom.
God works through people with _______________.
[Proverbs 21:2 NIV] A person may think their own ways are right, but the LORD weighs the heart.
_______________ attracts God's _______________.
[Daniel 5:30-31]That very night Belshazzar, the Babylonian king, was killed. [31] And Darius the Mede took over the kingdom at the age of sixty-two.
[Daniel 4:1-3] King Nebuchadnezzar sent this message to the people of every race and nation and language throughout the world: "Peace and prosperity to you! [2] "I want you all to know about the miraculous signs and wonders the Most High God has performed for me. [3] How great are his signs, how powerful his wonders! His kingdom will last forever, his rule through all generations.
God __________________ us because He loves us.
[Daniel 4:7-8] When all the magicians, enchanters, astrologers, and fortune-tellers came in, I told them the dream, but they could not tell me what it meant. [8] At last Daniel came in before me, and I told him the dream. (He was named Belteshazzar after my god, and the spirit of the holy gods is in him.)
You can know a lot about God and still not be ___________________ to him.
[Daniel 4:25-27] You will be driven from human society, and you will live in the fields with the wild animals. You will eat grass like a cow, and you will be drenched with the dew of heaven. Seven periods of time will pass while you live this way, until you learn that the Most High rules over the kingdoms of the world and gives them to anyone he chooses. [26] But the stump and roots of the tree were left in the ground. This means that you will receive your kingdom back again when you have learned that heaven rules. [27] "'King Nebuchadnezzar, please accept my advice. Stop sinning and do what is right. Break from your wicked past and be merciful to the poor. Perhaps then you will continue to prosper.'
God will __________ us if we refuse to __________ ourselves.
[Daniel 4:29-31] Twelve months later he was taking a walk on the flat roof of the royal palace in Babylon. [30] As he looked out across the city, he said, 'Look at this great city of Babylon! By my own mighty power, I have built this beautiful city as my royal residence to display my majestic splendor.' [31] "While these words were still in his mouth, a voice called down from heaven, 'O King Nebuchadnezzar, this message is for you! You are no longer ruler of this kingdom.
There is a _________ in heaven and you are __________ Him.
[Daniel 4:34, 37] "After this time had passed, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever. His rule is everlasting, and his kingdom is eternal. [37] "Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and glorify and honor the King of heaven. All his acts are just and true, and he is able to humble the proud."
Pride is a barrier to __________________.
[James 4:6b] "God opposes the proud but favors the humble."
[Daniel 3:1-6] King Nebuchadnezzar made a gold statue ninety feet tall and nine feet wide and set it up on the plain of Dura in the province of Babylon. [2] Then he sent messages to the high officers, officials, governors, advisers, treasurers, judges, magistrates, and all the provincial officials to come to the dedication of the statue he had set up. [3] So all these officials came and stood before the statue King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. [4] Then a herald shouted out, "People of all races and nations and languages, listen to the king's command! [5] When you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes, and other musical instruments, bow to the ground to worship King Nebuchadnezzar's gold statue. [6] Anyone who refuses to obey will immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace."
Don't bow down to the _________________ of this world.
[Daniel 3:16-18] Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. [17] If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. [18] But even if he doesn't, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up."
We may not know God's _________________, but we do know God's _________________.
We can still love God even if the ____________ doesn't come.
[Daniel 3:24-25] But suddenly, Nebuchadnezzar jumped up in amazement and exclaimed to his advisers, "Didn't we tie up three men and throw them into the furnace?" "Yes, Your Majesty, we certainly did," they replied. [25] "Look!" Nebuchadnezzar shouted. "I see four men, unbound, walking around in the fire unharmed! And the fourth looks like a god!"
Our faith should be in God's _________________ not in our desired _________________.
[Daniel 3:29] Therefore, I make this decree: If any people, whatever their race or nation or language, speak a word against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, they will be torn limb from limb, and their houses will be turned into heaps of rubble. There is no other god who can rescue like this!"
God is always with us in our _________________.
[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."
God doesn't always _________________ us from the fire but He will take us _________________ it.
God will use your fiery furnace to bring _________________.
[Daniel 2:1-3] One night during the second year of his reign, Nebuchadnezzar had such disturbing dreams that he couldn't sleep. [2] He called in his magicians, enchanters, sorcerers, and astrologers, and he demanded that they tell him what he had dreamed. As they stood before the king, [3] he said, "I have had a dream that deeply troubles me, and I must know what it means."
God may speak to people through __________________.
[Daniel 2:4-5] Then the astrologers answered the king in Aramaic, "Long live the king! Tell us the dream, and we will tell you what it means." [5] But the king said to the astrologers, "I am serious about this. If you don't tell me what my dream was and what it means, you will be torn limb from limb, and your houses will be turned into heaps of rubble!
No PERSON on earth can _____________________ the future.
[Daniel 2:10-11] The astrologers replied to the king, "No one on earth can tell the king his dream! And no king, however great and powerful, has ever asked such a thing of any magician, enchanter, or astrologer! [11] The king's demand is impossible. No one except the gods can tell you your dream, and they do not live here among people."
It is only possible to know the _____________ if God tells you.
[Daniel 2:15-18] He asked Arioch, "Why has the king issued such a harsh decree?" So Arioch told him all that had happened. [16] Daniel went at once to see the king and requested more time to tell the king what the dream meant. [17] Then Daniel went home and told his friends Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah what had happened. [18] He urged them to ask the God of heaven to show them his mercy by telling them the secret, so they would not be executed along with the other wise men of Babylon.
A life of __________________ will give you nerves of steel.
[Daniel 2:25-29] Arioch quickly took Daniel to the king and said, "I have found one of the captives from Judah who will tell the king the meaning of his dream!" [26] The king said to Daniel (also known as Belteshazzar), "Is this true? Can you tell me what my dream was and what it means?" [27] Daniel replied, "There are no wise men, enchanters, magicians, or fortune-tellers who can reveal the king's secret. [28] But there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets, and he has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in the future. Now I will tell you your dream and the visions you saw as you lay on your bed.
When we face ______________________ we must remember there is a __________________ in heaven.
[Philippians 4:19 KJV] But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
God is looking for people who refuse to ________________.
[Daniel 1:1-2] During the third year of King Jehoiakim's reign in Judah, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. [2] The Lord gave him victory over King Jehoiakim of Judah and permitted him to take some of the sacred objects from the Temple of God. So Nebuchadnezzar took them back to the land of Babylonia and placed them in the treasure-house of his god.
God wants us to turn from the ________________ and turn to ________________.
God never loses ________________.
God always uses _____________________ to shape us and define us.
[Daniel 1:3-5] Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, his chief of staff, to bring to the palace some of the young men of Judah's royal family and other noble families, who had been brought to Babylon as captives. [4] "Select only strong, healthy, and good-looking young men," he said. "Make sure they are well versed in every branch of learning, are gifted with knowledge and good judgment, and are suited to serve in the royal palace. Train these young men in the language and literature of Babylon." [5] The king assigned them a daily ration of food and wine from his own kitchens. They were to be trained for three years, and then they would enter the royal service.
This world is trying to change your ____________________.
[Daniel 1:8] But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods.
You cannot make a difference unless you’re ____________________.
[Romans 12:2a ESV] Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind...
[Matthew 22:34-40] But when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees with his reply, they met together to question him again. [35] One of them, an expert in religious law, tried to trap him with this question: [36] "Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?" [37] Jesus replied, "'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' [38] This is the first and greatest commandment. [39] A second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' [40] The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments."
Jesus says that ________________ is the most _____________________ rule.
[Luke 10:29] The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"
Jesus says that your ________________ should be your neighbor.
[Luke 10:36-37] "Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?" Jesus asked. [37] The man replied, "The one who showed him mercy." Then Jesus said, "Yes, now go and do the same."
God wants us to love Him with our ________________ being.
[1 Corinthians 10:31] So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
Following rules is easy, but having a ___________________ with God takes work.
Many people know ___________ God, but do not know God.
[1 John 4:7-8] Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. [8] But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love.
When you follow God you don't get to ________________ the people you love.
[John 13:34-35] So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. [35] Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples."
[John 4:6-9] Jacob's well was there; and Jesus, tired from the long walk, sat wearily beside the well about noontime. [7] Soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, "Please give me a drink." [8] He was alone at the time because his disciples had gone into the village to buy some food. [9] The woman was surprised, for Jews refuse to have anything to do with Samaritans. She said to Jesus, "You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. Why are you asking me for a drink?"
Jesus was not concerned with what _________________ _________________.
[John 4:10-15] Jesus replied, "If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water." [11] "But sir, you don't have a rope or a bucket," she said, "and this well is very deep. Where would you get this living water? [12] And besides, do you think you're greater than our ancestor Jacob, who gave us this well? How can you offer better water than he and his sons and his animals enjoyed?" [13] Jesus replied, "Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. [14] But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life." [15] "Please, sir," the woman said, "give me this water! Then I'll never be thirsty again, and I won't have to come here to get water."
Jesus is offering something to quench the thirst in our _________________.
[John 4:19-22] "Sir," the woman said, "you must be a prophet. [20] So tell me, why is it that you Jews insist that Jerusalem is the only place of worship, while we Samaritans claim it is here at Mount Gerizim, where our ancestors worshiped?" [21] Jesus replied, "Believe me, dear woman, the time is coming when it will no longer matter whether you worship the Father on this mountain or in Jerusalem.
Don't _________________ the Lord when He tries to direct you.
[John 4:25-29] The woman said, "I know the Messiah is coming--the one who is called Christ. When he comes, he will explain everything to us." [26] Then Jesus told her, "I AM the Messiah!" [27] Just then his disciples came back. They were shocked to find him talking to a woman, but none of them had the nerve to ask, "What do you want with her?" or "Why are you talking to her?" [28] The woman left her water jar beside the well and ran back to the village, telling everyone, [29] "Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did! Could he possibly be the Messiah?"
The things you once thought were so _________________ aren't as important once you come face to face with Jesus.
[John 4:39-41] Many Samaritans from the village believed in Jesus because the woman had said, "He told me everything I ever did!" [40] When they came out to see him, they begged him to stay in their village. So he stayed for two days, [41] long enough for many more to hear his message and believe.
You are not too _________________ to be used by God.
[Luke 6:1-2] One Sabbath day as Jesus was walking through some grainfields, his disciples broke off heads of grain, rubbed off the husks in their hands, and ate the grain. [2] But some Pharisees said, "Why are you breaking the law by harvesting grain on the Sabbath?"
The Sabbath was a _________________ of rest.
[Luke 6:3-11] Jesus replied, "Haven't you read in the Scriptures what David did when he and his companions were hungry? [4] He went into the house of God and broke the law by eating the sacred loaves of bread that only the priests can eat. He also gave some to his companions." [5] And Jesus added, "The Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath."
Saving life always took ________________ on the Sabbath.
We are called to follow _________________ not a bunch of _________________.
[Luke 6:6-11] On another Sabbath day, a man with a deformed right hand was in the synagogue while Jesus was teaching. [7] The teachers of religious law and the Pharisees watched Jesus closely. If he healed the man's hand, they planned to accuse him of working on the Sabbath. [8] But Jesus knew their thoughts. He said to the man with the deformed hand, "Come and stand in front of everyone." So the man came forward. [9] Then Jesus said to his critics, "I have a question for you. Does the law permit good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing evil? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?" [10] He looked around at them one by one and then said to the man, "Hold out your hand." So the man held out his hand, and it was restored! [11] At this, the enemies of Jesus were wild with rage and began to discuss what to do with him.
Jesus wasn't defying the Sabbath but their ______________ of the Sabbath.
Jesus is the one who brings us _________________.
[Hebrews 4:9-11 NIV] There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; [10] for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. [11] Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience.
Because of Jesus we don't need to _________________ to be made right with God.
[Matthew 11:28]
Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
[Luke 10:38-40 ESV] Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. [39] And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. [40] But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me."
It is _______________ to be distracted by __________ things.
[Luke 10:41-42 ESV] But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, [42] but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her."
Martha’s _________________ was ________________ activity she put on herself.
[Hebrews 12:5-6] And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, "My child, don't make light of the LORD's discipline, and don't give up when he corrects you. [6] For the LORD disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child."
I should consider what is important to ______________ over what is important to _________________.
[Matthew 5:48] But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect.
The _________________ important thing is spending _________________ with Jesus.
I might have to _________ ________ of some things to make time for the _____________________ thing.
[Matthew 12:38-40] One day some teachers of religious law and Pharisees came to Jesus and said, "Teacher, we want you to show us a miraculous sign to prove your authority." [39] But Jesus replied, "Only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign; but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah. [40] For as Jonah was in the belly of the great fish for three days and three nights, so will the Son of Man be in the heart of the earth for three days and three nights.
God doesn't do ___________ for your personal enjoyment.
[Luke 11:29-30] As the crowd pressed in on Jesus, he said, "This evil generation keeps asking me to show them a miraculous sign. But the only sign I will give them is the sign of Jonah. [30] What happened to him was a sign to the people of Nineveh that God had sent him. What happens to the Son of Man will be a sign to these people that he was sent by God.
The ____________ and ____________________ of Jesus is the sign that the world needs.
Are you looking for a ___________ or a ______________?
[John 12:37] But despite all the miraculous signs Jesus had done, most of the people still did not believe in him.
A sign might ____________ the way but it is not the ____________________.
It is easy to get __________________ to God working around us.
[John 6:30-35] They answered, "Show us a miraculous sign if you want us to believe in you. What can you do? [31] After all, our ancestors ate manna while they journeyed through the wilderness! The Scriptures say, 'Moses gave them bread from heaven to eat.'" [32] Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, Moses didn't give you bread from heaven. My Father did. And now he offers you the true bread from heaven. [33] The true bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." [34] "Sir," they said, "give us that bread every day." [35] Jesus replied, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.
People want a ___________ but Jesus is giving them ___________.
Temptation is when we are _______________ to act against to God's will.
We don't have to yield to _______________ unless we choose to.
[Matthew 4:1-4] Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted there by the devil. [2] For forty days and forty nights he fasted and became very hungry. [3] During that time the devil came and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become loaves of bread." [4] But Jesus told him, "No! The Scriptures say, 'People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"
We are often tempted by the things we _______________.
[Matthew 4:5-7] Then the devil took him to the holy city, Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, [6] and said, "If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, 'He will order his angels to protect you. And they will hold you up with their hands so you won't even hurt your foot on a stone.'" [7] Jesus responded, "The Scriptures also say, 'You must not test the LORD your God.'"
Pursuing _______________ always leads to _________________.
[Matthew 4:8-11] Next the devil took him to the peak of a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. [9] "I will give it all to you," he said, "if you will kneel down and worship me." [10] "Get out of here, Satan," Jesus told him. "For the Scriptures say, 'You must worship the LORD your God and serve only him.'" [11] Then the devil went away, and angels came and took care of Jesus.
The pursuit of _______________ will often bring ____________________.
[Hebrews 4:14-15 NIV] Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. [15] For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are--yet he did not sin.
Temptation may look ______________ but it is a _____________.
[James 4:7 NIV] Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Jesus fought temptation with the _______________ of the _______________.
[Psalm 119:11] I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.
The Word of God can break any _______________.
[1 Corinthians 10:13] The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
Temptation is only a ________________, you provide the answer.
When Jesus died His followers thought it was ___________.
[Luke 24:1-8] But very early on Sunday morning the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. [2] They found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. [3] So they went in, but they didn't find the body of the Lord Jesus. [4] As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared to them, clothed in dazzling robes. [5] The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, "Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? [6] He isn't here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, [7] that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day." [8] Then they remembered that he had said this.
Jesus was ________________ to never ___________ again.
Jesus alone __________________________ His death and resurrection, and pulled it off.
[John 11:25] Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.
Jesus destroyed the power of _____________ over your life.
When you __________________ in Jesus, He gives you the same ___________________ He has.
[Romans 8:10-11] And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. [11] The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.
The same ________________ who raised Jesus to life wants to raise ________________ up.
[John 10:10 ESV] The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
Jesus wants you to come ________________!
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. Let's celebrate Good Friday with #FlashbackFriday. This week, Thanksgiving 2014, Judah talks about why we should give thanks to our Lord. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts stand out to you.
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The Holy Spirit is here to ________________ and ________________ us to do the will of God.
[Matthew 28:16-20] Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. [17] When they saw him, they worshiped him--but some of them doubted! [18] Jesus came and told his disciples, "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. [19] Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. [20] Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
The primary work of the Holy Spirit is to ________________ people to ________________.
[Acts 1:6-9] So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, "Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?" [7] He replied, "The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. [8] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere--in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
The Holy Spirit draws people to Jesus by ________________ them of their sins.
[John 16:8-15] And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God's righteousness, and of the coming judgment. [9] The world's sin is that it refuses to believe in me. [10] Righteousness is available because I go to the Father, and you will see me no more.
The HS doesn't point out sin to bring __________________, but to bring ___________________.
________________ is what separates people from God.
[Matthew 5:20] "But I warn you--unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven!
[John 15:26-27] "But I will send you the Advocate--the Spirit of truth. He will come to you from the Father and will testify all about me. [27] And you must also testify about me because you have been with me from the beginning of my ministry.
God uses us to ____________________ His work.
[1 Corinthians 12:7] A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.
[John 4:23-24] But the time is coming--indeed it's here now--when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. [24] For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth."
God is the __________________ yesterday, today and forever.
[1 Thessalonians 5:19-21 NIV] Do not quench the Spirit. [20] Do not treat prophecies with contempt [21] but test them all; hold on to what is good.
God wants to move in a __________________ way in your life.
[Romans 12:6-8] In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. [7] If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. [8] If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.
The Holy Spirit has __________________ that He can work through you.
The Holy Spirit gives us gifts to __________________ others and __________________ Jesus.
[1 Corinthians 12:8-11] To one person the Spirit gives the ability to give wise advice; to another the same Spirit gives a message of special knowledge. [9] The same Spirit gives great faith to another, and to someone else the one Spirit gives the gift of healing. [10] He gives one person the power to perform miracles, and another the ability to prophesy. He gives someone else the ability to discern whether a message is from the Spirit of God or from another spirit. Still another person is given the ability to speak in unknown languages, while another is given the ability to interpret what is being said. [11] It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have.
The church isn't __________________ without your gift.
[1 Peter 4:10-11 NLT] God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. [11] Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ.
Use your gift as if God is __________________ through you.
[Luke 6:43-45] "A good tree can't produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can't produce good fruit. [44] A tree is identified by its fruit. Figs are never gathered from thornbushes, and grapes are not picked from bramble bushes. [45] A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.
What is in your ________________ determines the ________________ you bear.
There is a ________________ between what the Holy Spirit wants and what ________________ want.
[Galatians 5:16-17] So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves. [17] The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions.
You can't fight your _________ ______________ on your own.
[Galatians 5:19-21] When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, [20] idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, [21] envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.
Ungodly fruit demonstrates we are living a _______________-led life rather than a ________________-led one.
[Galatians 5:22-23] But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
The Holy Spirit will bring a noticeable change in your ________________ & ________________.
Our ________________ is revealed by the fruit we produce.
[Galatians 5:24-26] Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. [25] Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives. [26] Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another.
The Holy Spirit empowers us to live a ________________-________________ life.
[John 15:5, 7] "Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. [7] But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!
It is impossible to live the Christian life without the ________________ ________________.
[John 14:16-17 ESV] And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, [17] even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.
The Holy Spirit is God's Spirit ________________ with us ________________.
[Psalm 139:7] I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence!
There is ________________ available to you through the Holy Spirit.
[Acts 1:8] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere--in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
If you ________________ the Holy Spirit you are ignoring ________________.
[Acts 2:37-38] Peter's words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, "Brothers, what should we do?" [38] Peter replied, "Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
God wants to ________________ you to do the work He has called you to.
[Galatians 5:25-26] Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives. [26] Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another.
God doesn't send His power ________________ you get it right; He sends it so you ________________ get it right.
[Ezekiel 36:26-27]
And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. [27] And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations.
You have an __________________ capacity for self-deception.
[Matthew 23:29-30] "What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you build tombs for the prophets your ancestors killed, and you decorate the monuments of the godly people your ancestors destroyed. [30] Then you say, 'If we had lived in the days of our ancestors, we would never have joined them in killing the prophets.'
When we deceive ourselves we are __________________ to repeat the __________________.
[Matthew 12:14] Then the Pharisees called a meeting to plot how to kill Jesus.
If we don't learn from the past we repeat the past __________________ over and over.
[Revelation 3:17] You say, 'I am rich. I have everything I want. I don't need a thing!' And you don't realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked.
We can't change the cycle of self-deception without God's ______________________.
[1 John 1:8-10 NIV] If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. [9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. [10] If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.
Self-deception is rooted in __________________.
[James 1:22 NIV] Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
Knowledge without _____________________ is self-deception.
[Psalm 139:23-24] Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. [24] Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
How you handle conflict _________________.
[Proverbs 29:11 NIV] Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.
Don't allow conflict to _______________________ your life.
[Proverbs 15:1 NIV] A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
We can either _________________ the flames of conflict or we can ______________________ them.
The more I raise my _________________ the more I lower my ______________________.
[Luke 6:27-30] "But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. [28] Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you. [29] If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek also. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt also. [30] Give to anyone who asks; and when things are taken away from you, don't try to get them back.
Jesus wants you to give up your right to _______________.
[Romans 12:17-19] Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. [18] Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. [19] Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord.
God want us to respond to conflict with ________________.
[Colossians 3:13-14] Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. [14]Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.
We need to be the ones who take the __________________ to resolve conflict.
A double-minded person is __________________ in their thoughts, actions and behaviors.
[James 1:5 NIV] If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
Wisdom is the ability to apply __________________.
[James 1:6 NIV] But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.
Do you believe that God ___________ and ____________ move on your behalf?
[James 1:7-8 NIV] That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. [8] Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.
We can't __________________ anything from God if we aren't walking in faith.
Double-mindedness produces __________________.
It's normal to have __________________, but we can't let it __________________ over.
[Hebrews 11:6] And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
You can't have a solid _________________ without trust.
[Matthew 6:24] "No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
We need to let go of the things __________________ us away from God?
[1 Kings 18:21] Then Elijah stood in front of them and said, "How much longer will you waver, hobbling between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him! But if Baal is God, then follow him!" But the people were completely silent.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of putting every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah concludes the series, Unstoppable.
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It is __________ to be critical.
[Galatians 5:15 NLT] “But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another.”
Being critical is spiritual _________________.
It makes the whole Body of Christ ______________.
[Galatians 6:1 NIV] “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.”
[2 Corinthians 5:16-20 NLT] “So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! 17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! 18 And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. 19 For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. 20 So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!”
[Luke 19:5-10 NLT] When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.” 6 Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. 7 But the people were displeased. “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,” they grumbled. 8 Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!” 9 Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”
When we identify something that is wrong, our goal should be to bring people closer to __________.
[Luke 6:39-42 NIV] “He also told them this parable: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit? 40 The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher. 41 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 42 How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”
________________is the pre-requisite for God’s call to help ____________ others.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of putting every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah continues the series, Unstoppable.
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Problem fixation: the inability to look beyond the circumstances to think __________________ about a situation.
[1 Kings 17-19]
Even the Godliest can get __________________. When the problems of the moment cover over the glory of God.
God knows you are __________________.
He is not always heard in the loudness, or in a mighty show of power, but is mostly in __________________ _________ __________________ when it seems like he’s not doing anything.
[1 Peter 5:7 NLT] Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
Give your problems over to God and __________________ that he will act.
[Romans 5:1-5 NLT] 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. 2 Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.
3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
[Romans 8:28 ESV] And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
[Romans 8:31 ESV] What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. As a way of putting every Thrive Church sermon online, welcome to #FlashbackFriday. This week, Judah starts a new series, only the second series in the history of our church.
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When our lives are __________________ it allows the enemy to __________________.
[Psalm 16:7-9] I will bless the LORD who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me. [8] I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. [9] No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety.
Constantly seeking __________________ from others will make us unstable.
You weren't designed to please __________________.
[Galatians 1:10] Obviously, I'm not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ's servant.
I will __________________ be unstable if I seek the approval of people.
Being obsessed with what people think is the fastest way to forget what ____________ __________________.
[Proverbs 29:25] Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the LORD means safety.
Living for God's approval is the __________________ for trying to always please people.
[John 12:37, 42-43] But despite all the miraculous signs Jesus had done, most of the people still did not believe in him. [42] Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn't admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. [43] For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.
Being obsessed with what people __________________ about you is the fastest way to __________________ what God thinks about you.
[Psalm 118:6-9] The LORD is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me? [7] Yes, the LORD is for me; he will help me. I will look in triumph at those who hate me. [8] It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in people. [9] It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.
When I have God's approval I don't need _______________ else's.
Solitude is pulling away from things to _______________ _______________ with God.
[Psalm 16:11 ESV] You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Loneliness bring _______________ but solitude brings _______________.
We need to intentionally combat _______________, busyness and _______________.
[Mark 6:30-32] The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. [31] Then Jesus said, "Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile." He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn't even have time to eat. [32] So they left by boat for a quiet place, where they could be alone.
Solitude is intentional _______________ for a _______________ purpose.
Solitude enables us to sense the _____________________ of God.
[Psalm 62:5-6] Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him. [6] He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken.
God’s resources are ____________________ than we think.
[Exodus 14:13-14 ESV]And Moses said to the people, “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will work for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall never see again. [14] The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.”
God created you because he wants to have a ___________________ with you.
[Acts 3:19-20]Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. [20] Then times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord, and he will again send you Jesus, your appointed Messiah.
[2 Chronicles 7:14-15] Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. [15] My eyes will be open and my ears attentive to every prayer made in this place.
God always ______________ our prayers, but that doesn't mean He always ______________ them the way we want.
It is a privilege to be ______________ by God.
Prayer is having a ____________________ with God.
[Luke 5:15-16] But despite Jesus' instructions, the report of his power spread even faster, and vast crowds came to hear him preach and to be healed of their diseases. [16] But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.
Prayer is an important way to _________ ______ with God.
[John 15:5-7] "Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. [6] Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. [7] But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!
When you are ______________ with God He will answer your prayers.
[1 John 5:14-15] This is the confidence we have before him: If we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. [15] And if we know that he hears whatever we ask, we know that we have what we have asked of him.
God is looking for people who's ______________ ______________ is getting close to Him.
[Luke 18:10-14] "Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. [11] The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: 'I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else. For I don't cheat, I don't sin, and I don't commit adultery. I'm certainly not like that tax collector! [12] I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.' [13] "But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, 'O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.' [14] I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."
Generosity is the key to unlocking God's __________________ in your life.
[Proverbs 11:24] Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything.
God invites us to test Him with our __________________.
[Malachi 3:10-11] Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, "I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won't have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! [11] Your crops will be abundant, for I will guard them from insects and disease. Your grapes will not fall from the vine before they are ripe," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies.
God __________________ to bless those who live generously!
[Luke 6:38 NIV] Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
[2 Corinthians 8:2] They are being tested by many troubles, and they are very poor. But they are also filled with abundant joy, which has overflowed in rich generosity.
Generosity brings __________________.
[2 Corinthians 8:3] For I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford, but far more. And they did it of their own free will.
Generosity is __________________.
[2 Corinthians 9:6] Remember this--a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop.
[2 Corinthians 8:4-5] They begged us again and again for the privilege of sharing in the gift for the believers in Jerusalem. [5] They even did more than we had hoped, for their first action was to give themselves to the Lord and to us, just as God wanted them to do.
Generosity is __________________.
[2 Corinthians 9:7] You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully."
Generosity is a response to the _____________ _____________.
[James 1:17 CSB] Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
It is impossible to be in __________________ with God and __________________ be generous.
[Philippians 3:18-19] For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. [19] They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth.
Biblical fasting always focuses on __________________ purposes.
Fasting strengthens your __________________ with God.
[Matthew 5:6 NIV] Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
We ______________ things up so that we can ______________ up our lives to Jesus.
[Hebrews 11:6] And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
When you fast, your __________________ weakens and your __________________ strengthens.
[Proverbs 10:3 NET] The LORD satisfies the appetite of the righteous, but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.
Stop trying to satisfy a __________________ that only God can fill.
[Matthew 16:24] Then Jesus said to his disciples, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.
Our goal shouldn't be to get God to ________________ our will, but to get us _________________ with His will.
You can either control your __________________ or they will __________________ you.
[Psalm 37:3-4] Trust in the LORD and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. [4] Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart's desires.
God promises to direct us when we put Him ____________.
[Romans 12:2] Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
If we are synced up to the ____________ we are out of sync with ____________.
[Proverbs 14:12] There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.
A ___________ without ___________ accomplishes nothing.
[Matthew 7:24-27] "Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. [25] Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse because it is built on bedrock. [26] But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn't obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. [27] When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash."
You can't say you want to be in ____________ with God, and then _________________ His Word.
If you want to know God's ____________, you have to know His ____________.
[1 Corinthians 2:9] That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him."
When things appear to be ____________ of control you can be sure that ____________ is still in control.
[Proverbs 3:5-10] Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. [6] Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. [7] Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the LORD and turn away from evil. [8] Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones. [9] Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. [10] Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine.
Don't trust _________________ when you could be trusting in ____________.
There is something deep inside of us that wants to ________________ someone.
Isaiah 9:6-7 For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity.
A good king gives ________________.
Psalm 91:1-2Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him.
A good king offers ________________.
Galatians 5:1 So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.
A good king brings ________________.
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.”
Jesus left his ________________ to come and bring ________________ to earth.
Philippians 2:9-11 God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Jesus is not just the king that we ________________, but the king that we ________________.
Jesus is not just A king. He is ________________ king.
The best gift we can give our King is _________ ________.
Let Jesus be your ________________ not your ________________.
Celebrate Christmas by watching Thrive's fourth sermon entitled "Thrive: People".
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us. We encourage you to comment below to share with others about what parts of the service minister and stand out to you.
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Celebrate Christmas by listening to the Thrive's second sermon, entitled "Thrive: Community". The Audio is from a CD recording.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us.
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Celebrate Christmas by listening to the Thrive's second sermon, entitled "Thrive: Prayer". The Audio was remastered using a CD recording including audio not found in the video version.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us.
If you are a first-time guest you can fill out this form to get connected: https://thrive.church/connect/
If you would like to give financially you can do so here: https://thrive.church/give/
If you need any prayer you can send prayer requests here: https://thrivect.churchcenter.com/people/forms/13260
Stay connected with us throughout the week:
https://thrive.church
https://Facebook.com/thrivechurchonline
https://Instagram.com/thrivechurchonline
https://tiktok.com/@thrivechurchonline
On Wednesday, December 22 Thrive had their first Candlelight Service in honor of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
[Isaiah 9:2] The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.
[John 1:1-5, 9-12 NIV] In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. [2] He was with God in the beginning. [3] Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. [4] In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. [9] The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. [10] He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. [11] He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. [12] Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God--
[John 8:12] Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
[Ephesians 5:8-11] For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!
[John 1:9-10] The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. [10] He came into the very world he created, but the world didn't recognize him.
Jesus came to bring ________________ into the world.
[Luke 3:15] Everyone was expecting the Messiah to come soon, and they were eager to know whether John might be the Messiah.
God's ________________ is always better than our _______________________.
[Romans 15:13 NIV] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus is the hope of the ________________, and He is the hope for ________________.
[Psalm 42:5] Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again--my Savior and my God!
No situation is ____________________ when your hope is in ________________.
[Psalm 33:20-22] We put our hope in the LORD. He is our help and our shield. [21] In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. [22] Let your unfailing love surround us, LORD, for our hope is in you alone.
Real hope is hoping even when things seem ____________________.
My hope is not ________________ by the ________________ I face.
________________ your hope is in is greater that ________________ you are hoping for.
[Isaiah 40:31 NIV] 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.
____________________ can be a side-effect of expectation.
[Romans 8:18-22 NIV] I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
Sometimes our frustration is rooted in _________________.
[Philippians 4:11-12 NLT] Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. [12] I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.
I am ____________________ with where I am, but I am ____________________ God to move in greater ways in the future.
If you can trust God with your ____________________ and ____________________, you can also trust Him with your ____________________.
Don't let your present ____________________ take your eyes off of your future ____________________.
[Hebrews 11:1 NLT] Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.
When I have everything ____________________ God I have nothing; but when I have nothing ______________ my God then I have it all.
[Psalm 16:5-9 GNT] You, Lord, are all I have, and you give me all I need; my future is in your hands. [6] How wonderful are your gifts to me; how good they are! [7] I praise the Lord, because he guides me, and in the night my conscience warns me. [8] I am always aware of the Lord's presence; he is near, and nothing can shake me. [9] And so I am thankful and glad, and I feel completely secure,
Although ____________________ may not go my way, my God is for me.
[Isaiah 40:31 ESV] but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
God wants us to live with __________________.
[Acts 3:3-10 NIV] When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. [4] Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, "Look at us!" [5] So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. [6] Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." [7] Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. [8] He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. [9] When all the people saw him walking and praising God, [10] they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.
We can expect __________________ things when we understand the __________________ of God.
[Ephesians 3:20] Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.
Put your __________________ in God.
[Mark 10:47-52] When Bartimaeus heard that Jesus of Nazareth was nearby, he began to shout, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" [48] "Be quiet!" many of the people yelled at him. But he only shouted louder, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" [49] When Jesus heard him, he stopped and said, "Tell him to come here." So they called the blind man. "Cheer up," they said. "Come on, he's calling you!" [50] Bartimaeus threw aside his coat, jumped up, and came to Jesus. [51] "What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus asked. "My rabbi," the blind man said, "I want to see!" [52] And Jesus said to him, "Go, for your faith has healed you." Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road.
We won't see the __________________ things of life if we don't have __________________ in God.
Expectation and __________________ go hand in hand.
[Psalm 130:5 MEV] I wait for the Lord, with bated breath I wait; I long for His Word!
You often get what you __________________ to get.
[Romans 8:24-25 NIV] For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? [25] But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
___________________ will spark joy in your life.
[Philippians 3:1] Whatever happens, my dear brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. I never get tired of telling you these things, and I do it to safeguard your faith.
We rejoice in Lord because He is ___________________!
[Psalm 73:26] My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.
I don't need good _________________________ to have joy.
[Psalm 34:1-8] A psalm of David, regarding the time he pretended to be insane in front of Abimelech, who sent him away. I will praise the LORD at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. [2] I will boast only in the LORD; let all who are helpless take heart. [3] Come, let us tell of the LORD's greatness; let us exalt his name together. [4] I prayed to the LORD, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears. [5] Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces. [6] In my desperation I prayed, and the LORD listened; he saved me from all my troubles. [7] For the angel of the LORD is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him. [8] Taste and see that the LORD is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!
The ___________________ of God is so much greater than the ___________________ of this life.
[Psalm 84:10] A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else! I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God than live the good life in the homes of the wicked.
A bad day with the ___________________ is better than a good day _________ __________ ____________.
[Philippians 3:8-9a] Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ [9] and become one with him.
The good things in life are ______________ if I don't have Jesus.
[Psalm 16:11 ESV] You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
God's ___________________ is more important than His ___________________.
[Philippians 3:13-14, 20-21] No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, [14] I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. [20] But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. [21] He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control.
[Philippians 4:4-7 NIV] Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! [5] Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. [6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. [7] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
___________________ is a quick path to joy.
If we fail to choose gratitude we default to ___________________.
Gratitude is recognizing that life owes me _______________ and every good thing I have is a _______________.
[Luke 17:16-19] He fell to the ground at Jesus' feet, thanking him for what he had done. This man was a Samaritan. [17] Jesus asked, "Didn't I heal ten men? Where are the other nine? [18] Has no one returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?" [19] And Jesus said to the man, "Stand up and go. Your faith has healed you."
Thanksgiving attracts God's ___________________.
[Psalm 103:1-5] A psalm of David. Let all that I am praise the LORD; with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. [2] Let all that I am praise the LORD; may I never forget the good things he does for me. [3] He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. [4] He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies. [5] He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle's!
It takes ___________________ to be thankful.
[2 Corinthians 12:7-10] So to keep me from becoming proud, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from becoming proud. [8] Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. [9] Each time he said, "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness." So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. [10] That's why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
We can be thankful for our ___________________ because God is working through them.
[1 Thessalonians 5:16-18] Always be joyful. [17] Never stop praying. [18] Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
[John 15:10-11] When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father's commandments and remain in his love. [11] I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!
Jesus wants you to have joy that ___________________.
[Philippians 2:3-4] Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. [4] Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.
Nothing will kill your joy faster than ___________________ yourself to others.
Joy comes when my focus is on ___________________.
[John 10:10 ESV] The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
A Joyful Christian is a ___________________ Christian.
You don't need to be ___________________ to have joy.
You can't tell if you have joy until you face ______________ ______________.
[Philippians 2:5-11] You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. [6] Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. [7] Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, [8] he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on a cross.
A ___________________ person is not a joyful person.
[Hebrews 12:2 NIV] fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
There is joy in the ___________________.
The devil can't ______________ your joy...but you can _______________ it up.
[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.
God wants His joy to be like a _________________ in your life.
[Philippians 2:17-18] But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God, just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. [18] Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy.
[Acts 16:6-7] Next Paul and Silas traveled through the area of Phrygia and Galatia, because the Holy Spirit had prevented them from preaching the word in the province of Asia at that time. [7] Then coming to the borders of Mysia, they headed north for the province of Bithynia, but again the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them to go there.
God's “_______” is as good as His “_______.”
God wants you to have joy _______ ______________ ________.
[Philippians 1:3-6] Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. [4] Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, [5] for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. [6] And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
I can have joy knowing that God always ______________ what He ______________.
A mark of a mature Christian is how we respond to ___________ ___________.
Happiness is ______________, but joy is ______________.
[2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NIV] Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. [17] For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. [18] So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Don't let the things you can't control, ___________________ you.
[Philippians 1:12] And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. [13] For everyone here, including the whole palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ. [14] And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers here have gained confidence and boldly speak God's message without fear.
Happiness happens by ______________, but joy happens by ______________.
[Psalm 119:143] As pressure and stress bear down on me, I find joy in your commands.
Our joy is found in ______________ alone.
[Philippians 1:20-23] For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. [21] For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. [22] But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don't know which is better. [23] I'm torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. [24] But for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live.
[Zechariah 4:6b NIV] 'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty.
The Holy Spirit is not a higher power, He is ________ _________________ _________________.
[2 Corinthians 3:17] For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
There is no freedom _______________ from the Holy Spirit.
[Colossians 1:13-14] For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, [14] who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.
The Holy Spirit will _________________ you of sin.
[John 16:7-8] But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don't, the Advocate won't come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you. [8] And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God's righteousness, and of the coming judgment.
The awareness of our sin should lead to _________________.
[1 John 1:9-10] But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. [10] If we claim we have not sinned, we are calling God a liar and showing that his word has no place in our hearts.
[James 5:16] Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.
We confess to God for _________________ and we confess to each other for _________________.
We must REPENT and turn from our sin.
[Matthew 4:17] From then on Jesus began to preach, "Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near."
Repentance may require _________________ some _________________.
[Romans 8:12-14] Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. [13] For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. [14] For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.
[1 Corinthians 12:4-7, 11 NLT] There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. [5] There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. [6] God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. [7] A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other. [11] It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have.
If you are following Jesus you have been given a __________.
Spiritual gifts are given for us to serve ________________ and point the way to ________________.
[Romans 12:4-5 NLT] Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don't think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us. [4] Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, [5] so it is with Christ's body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.
We are called to use our gifts to serve the Lord in __________.
The church is not ________________ without your gift.
[2 Timothy 1:6] This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you.
The more we use God's gifts the more they _______________!
[Ephesians 4:11-12] Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. [12] Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.
God wants to use you to accomplish His __________ on earth.
[1 Corinthians 13:1-3] If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. [2] If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing. [3] If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing.
We are never to use God's gifts in a way that is ____________.
3 Questions to Help Discover Your Gifts
Does it ________________ you?
Does it come ________________?
Do others ________________ it?
Life is a journey and God has given us the ________________ we need to navigate it.
[John 16:7-8, 13-14] But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don't, the Advocate won't come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you. [8] And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God's righteousness, and of the coming judgment. [13] When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. [14] He will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me.
What seems “_____________” may not be God's _____________.
Many people want the Holy Spirit's guidance but won't stop to ________________ to Him.
[John 10:27] My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
If you are in God's Word, seeking to be led by the Spirit, and listening for His voice, you ________________ be led down the ________________ path.
Circumstances aren't a ________________ way to discern God's Will.
[Jeremiah 17:9] "The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?
Your ________________ aren't a reliable guide.
The Holy Spirit will ________________ contradict Scripture.
[Psalm 119:105] Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
The more ________________ you have in your heart, the more the Spirit will ________________ to you.
God's ________________ is found in God's ________________.
When the Spirit guides us we must be willing to ______________.
[Luke 11:9-13] "And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. [10] For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. [11] "You fathers--if your children ask for a fish, do you give them a snake instead? [12] Or if they ask for an egg, do you give them a scorpion? Of course not! [13] So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him."
God is not trying to ________________ His path from you.
[1 Corinthians 4:20] For the Kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk; it is living by God's power.
The Holy Spirit is the One who breathes the _____________ into our ____________________.
[2 Corinthians 3:13] We are not like Moses, who put a veil over his face so the people of Israel would not see the glory, even though it was destined to fade away.
The Holy Spirit will never _______________ those who put their faith in Jesus.
[Acts 1:4-5] Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, "Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. [5] John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit."
The Holy Spirit wants to ____________________ your life.
[Acts 1:8] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere--in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
The Holy Spirit is always pointing the way to ____________ through ____________________.
So many are living a Spirit-___________ life, but God wants us to live a Spirit-___________ life.
Experiencing the ____________________ of the Holy Spirit begins with an awareness of His ____________________.
[2 Timothy 1:7 NIV] For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
God wants you to live a life ________________ of the Spirit.
[Romans 8:11] The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.
The same ____________________ that raised Jesus from the dead is available to every ____________________!
Continue to celebrate Thrive's Anniversary with the sermon from January 17 of this year, a week before we started this weekly podcast.
Prayer is the simple __________ of talking to God.
Matthew 6:9-13 Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, As we forgive those who sin against us. And do not lead us into temptation But deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Daniel ________________ hid his faith, even if it meant punishment.
The resilient person will _______________ at all times.
James 5:13-16 (ESV)
13 Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. 14 Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.
15 And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
The point is for you to pray _____ ___________ because you know that God is ____________ to answer.
Bring all things to God in prayer and let him guide you, don’t _______ _______ _______________ without asking God.
Romans 8:26-27(NLT) And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we do n’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will.
Romans 8:34 (ESV) Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.
Continue to celebrate Thrive's Anniversary with the sermon from January 10 of this year, 2 weeks before we started this weekly podcast.
When we fast we give up something we _____________ to focus on something of greater _____________.
Matthew 6:16 “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get
God usually shapes you over _____________ periods of time by using things that seem _________________.
Fasting helps us to control our _______________.
2 Kings 7:3-7Now there were four men with leprosy sitting at the entrance of the city gates. “Why should we sit here waiting to die?” they asked each other. 4 “We will starve if we stay here, but with the famine in the city, we will starve if we go back there. So we might as well go out and surrender to the Aramean army. If they let us live, so much the better. But if they kill us, we would have died anyway.” 5 So at twilight they set out for the camp of the Arameans. But when they came to the edge of the camp, no one was there! 6 For the Lord had caused the Aramean army to hear the clatter of speeding chariots and the galloping of horses and the sounds of a great army approaching. “The king of Israel has hired the Hittites and Egyptians to attack us!” they cried to one another. 7 So they panicked and ran into the night, abandoning their tents, horses, donkeys, and everything else, as they fled for their lives.
So many people are waiting for _____________ to move, but He's waiting for _____________ to move.
Fasting strengthens your _____________________ with God.
Psalm 42:1-2 As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God. 2 I thirst for God, the living God. When can I go and stand before him?
If you don't learn to direct your _________________ they will begin to direct you.
Matthew 5:6 CSB Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Fasting teaches us how to control our _______________.
Philippians 3:10-11 I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, 11 so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!
Fasting will unlock spiritual _______________ in your life.
Continue to celebrate Thrive's Anniversary with the sermon from January 3 of this year, weeks before we started this weekly podcast.
Philippians 3:12-16I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. 13 No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. 15 Let all who are spiritually mature agree on these things. If you disagree on some point, I believe God will make it plain to you. 16 But we must hold on to the progress we have already made.
Resilience is the capacity to ___________________ quickly from difficulties.
Resilient people are good at choosing where they focus their ___________________.
We need to see our ___________________ as an opportunity to learn.
James 1:2-4 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
God wants you to have ___________________.
Resilience is the ___________________ between the problem taking you out and it making you ___________________.
Resilient people ___________________ in all circumstances.
2 Corinthians 4:7-10 We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves. 8 We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. 9 We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed. 10 Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.
You may get ___________________ down, but you don't need to ___________________ down.
The very thing that was meant to ___________________ me just made me ___________________.
Romans 8:11 The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.
You are equipped with a resilient ___________________.
Celebrate Thrive's 7th anniversary by listening to the first sermon. Entitled "Thrive: God's Word". The Audio was remastered using a CD recording. There are some imperfections inherited from the original source material. Better audio starts at 1:37
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To Celebrate Thrive's 7th Anniversary we have a lost sermon! The video may be lost to time but the audio was preserved minus the beginning. Enjoy this Bonus, and celebrate with us as Thrive turns 7!
[1 Corinthians 13:13] Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.
Hope (Greek: elpis): joyful and ______________ expectation of salvation.
Hope is the __________________ we have that God is good and that His promises are true.
[Jeremiah 29:11] For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
You lose your hope when you can't see your ____________.
Your greatest lessons in ____________ will be learned in the _____________ times.
[Romans 5:3-5] We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
I have a hope that ________________ back.
I don't have hope for __________________, I have hope in _____________________.
[Psalm 20:7 (NIV)] Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
[Jeremiah 29:5] “Build homes, and plan to stay. Plant gardens, and eat the food they produce.
[Jeremiah 29:7] And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.”
As you ____________ others, you position yourself to receive _________________.
[Jeremiah 29:12-13] In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.
God will give us hope in middle of _________________.
[Hebrews 10:23] Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.
You will ___________________ walk on water if you're too ___________________ to step out of the boat.
[Matthew 14:27-33] But Jesus spoke to them at once. "Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage. I am here!" [28] Then Peter called to him, "Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water." [29] "Yes, come," Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. [30] But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" he shouted. [31] Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. "You have so little faith," Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me?"
__________ will drag you down and ___________ will lift you up.
A ___________________ faith is better than ___________ faith.
[Matthew 17:20] "You don't have enough faith," Jesus told them. "I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it would move. Nothing would be impossible."
We have to ___________________ our faith.
[Romans 12:3b CSB] ...God has distributed a measure of faith to each one.
If you don't exercise your faith it will begin to _______________.
[James 2:14-18] What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don't show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? [15] Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, [16] and you say, "Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well"--but then you don't give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? [17] So you see, faith by itself isn't enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless. [18] Now someone may argue, "Some people have faith; others have good deeds." But I say, "How can you show me your faith if you don't have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds."
Exercise your faith in the ___________________ things so it's strong when you go through the ___________________ things.
[Romans 10:17] So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.
Faith unleashes the ___________________.
Faith is the ___________________ thing we need.
[Hebrews 11:6a] And it is impossible to please God without faith.
Don't settle for life in the ___________________.
[Matthew 14:28-33] Then Peter called to him, "Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water." [29] "Yes, come," Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. [30] But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" he shouted. [31] Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. "You have so little faith," Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me?" [32] When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. [33] Then the disciples worshiped him. "You really are the Son of God!" they exclaimed.
Let your ______________ turn into ______________.
If you don't worship God, you will worship ___________________ ______________.
[Romans 1:23, 25] And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles. [25] They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise!
Worship is giving extreme ___________________ and ______________ to someone or something.
[Romans 12:1] And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice--the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.
Worship always has an aspect of ___________________.
[John 12:3] Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus' feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance.
Extravagant worship is ______________ God the _____________ of what we have.
[John 12:1-2] Six days before the Passover celebration began, Jesus arrived in Bethany, the home of Lazarus--the man he had raised from the dead. [2] A dinner was prepared in Jesus' honor. Martha served, and Lazarus was among those who ate with him.
When we see what God has ______________, we can't help but ___________________ Him.
We can ______________ even when we are walking through ______________.
[Habakkuk 3:17-18] Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, [18] yet I will rejoice in the LORD! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!
[Psalm 19:1] The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.
You can't call yourself a follower of Jesus if you aren't even ____________________ at Him!
[Matthew 14:28-31] Then Peter called to him, "Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water." [29] "Yes, come," Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. [30] But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" he shouted. [31] Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. "You have so little faith," Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me?"
Focus on the ____________________ and not the ____________________.
Your eyes can only ____________________ on one thing at a time.
We begin to ____________________ we we take our eyes off of Jesus.
Don't _______________ when the _______________ come.
[Hebrews 12:1-2] Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. [2] We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne.
Stop ____________________ on the things that drag you down and focus on the _____________ who can pull you up.
____________________ happen to those whose eyes are on Jesus.
[Philippians 3:14] I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
All who look to Jesus will be ____________________!
[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."
Obedience is what separates the ____________________ from the ____________________.
[Matthew 14:25-29] About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. [26] When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, "It's a ghost!" [27] But Jesus spoke to them at once. "Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage. I am here!" [28] Then Peter called to him, "Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water." [29] "Yes, come," Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus.
____________________ to God's Word leads to a life of adventure.
[Luke 5:1-3] One day as Jesus was preaching on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, great crowds pressed in on him to listen to the word of God. [2] He noticed two empty boats at the water's edge, for the fishermen had left them and were washing their nets. [3] Stepping into one of the boats, Jesus asked Simon, its owner, to push it out into the water. So he sat in the boat and taught the crowds from there.
My obedience ____________________ prepares me for my obedience ____________________.
[Luke 5:4-6] When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Now go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish." [5] "Master," Simon replied, "we worked hard all last night and didn't catch a thing. But if you say so, I'll let the nets down again." [6] And this time their nets were so full of fish they began to tear!
Obedience ____________________ God's miracle.
[Acts 5:28-29, 32] "Didn't we tell you never again to teach in this man's name?" he demanded. "Instead, you have filled all Jerusalem with your teaching about him, and you want to make us responsible for his death!" [29] But Peter and the apostles replied, "We must obey God rather than any human authority. ... [32] We are witnesses of these things and so is the Holy Spirit, who is given by God to those who obey him."
[James 1:22 ESV] But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
Obedience is a mark of ____________________.
Great things are not accomplished in ________________.
[Matthew 14:25-27] About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. [26] When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, "It's a ghost!" [27] But Jesus spoke to them at once. "Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage. I am here!"
When Jesus is ________________ we do not need to be ________________.
[Mark 6:48] He saw that they were in serious trouble, rowing hard and struggling against the wind and waves. About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. He intended to go past them.
It always takes bravery to take the _________ __________.
If you want God to be involved in your ____________ you have to get involved with ____________.
[Matthew 14:28-29] Then Peter called to him, "Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water." [29] "Yes, come," Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus.
It takes ________________ to step out of the boat.
The thriving life is an _____________________ life.
[1 Corinthians 16:13] Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.
Safety doesn't equal _____________________.
[Matthew 14:30-33] But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" he shouted. [31] Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. "You have so little faith," Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me?" [32] When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. [33] Then the disciples worshiped him. "You really are the Son of God!" they exclaimed.
Problems aren't meant to ________________ you, they're meant to ________________ you.
[John 15:1-3] "I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. [2] He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. [3] You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you.
Pruning produces ____________________.
[John 15:4-6] Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. [5] "Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. [6] Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned.
A fruitful life is the result of a close ____________________ to Jesus.
[Galatians 5:22-23] But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
The character of the ______________ determines the character of the ______________.
[Ephesians 2:10 NIV] For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
The evidence that you are ____________________ to Jesus is the fruit you bear!
[John 15:7-10] But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! [8] When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father. [9] "I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. [10] When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father's commandments and remain in his love.
When we ____________________ in Christ our prayers are ____________________.
God has chosen to express His love to the _______________ through _____________.
[John 15:11] I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!
Even when the pruning comes we can have _____________.
[John 14:1 NLT] "Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.
Jesus cares about what is ________________ you.
______________ is the cure for a ________________ heart.
[John 14:2-5 NLT] "Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. [2] There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? [3] When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. [4] And you know the way to where I am going." [5] "No, we don't know, Lord," Thomas said. "We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?"
Jesus knows how to get from our broken _______________ to His Father's ________________.
[John 14:6 NLT] Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.
Jesus is not just _________ way to God, He is the ________________ way.
[Acts 4:12 NLT] There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved."
The way of Jesus is _____________ to ________________.
It's not ________________-________________ to believe the truth.
[1 Timothy 2:5-6 NLT] For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity--the man Christ Jesus. [6] He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time.
If Jesus is the ________________ then all His claims are ________________.
[John 10:10 NASB] "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have [it] abundantly.
Jesus is the _______ who came _______ earth, was buried for _______ days but rose again _______ your salvation!
_____________ as the ________________ for sin one ______________ every person has!
[Romans 3:23 NIV] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
[John 11:1-3, 11-15, 21-26 NIV] Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. [2] (This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair.) [3] So the sisters sent word to Jesus, "Lord, the one you love is sick." ... [11] After he had said this, he went on to tell them, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up." [12] His disciples replied, "Lord, if he sleeps, he will get better." [13] Jesus had been speaking of his death, but his disciples thought he meant natural sleep. [14] So then he told them plainly, "Lazarus is dead, [15] and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him." ... [21] "Lord," Martha said to Jesus, "if you had been here, my brother would not have died. [22] But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask." [23] Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again." [24] Martha answered, "I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day." [25] 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?"
Death has no ________________ when ________________ is part of the ________________.
[John 11:40 NIV] Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?"
Death must ________________ Jesus and ________________ its hold on ________________ who has put faith in Him.
In Jesus there is __________ any situation that is too ______________!
[John 20:1-10 NIV] Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. [2] So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!" [3] So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. [4] Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. [5] He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. [6] Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, [7] as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus' head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen. [8] Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed.
[Hebrews 10:12-14 NIV] But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, [13] and since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool. [14] For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.
[Romans 6:9-10 NIV] For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. [10] The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.
________________ has no hold on Jesus! And our ________________ in Him removes any ________________ death had on us!
Jesus ________ the problem of death for us _________ time for all time!
The ________________ of Jesus is meant to empower us to live bold, powerful lives that tells his story of ________________.
God is not and has never been one for appearances but wants a ________________ of heart.
[Ezekiel 34:4 NKJV] "The weak you have not strengthened, nor have you healed those who were sick, nor bound up the broken, nor brought back what was driven away, nor sought what was lost; but with force and cruelty you have ruled them.
The word "shepherd" is synonymous with ________________ as well as ________________.
[John 10:11-12 ESV] I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. [12] He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them.
Jesus presents himself as the good shepherd, willing to do what is ________________ for the good of the sheep
[Luke 15:6b-7 ESV] Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.' [7] Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.
Jesus cares for us; He ________________ after those who have gone astray and ________________ when they are found!
[Ezekiel 34:15-16 ESV] I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep, and I myself will make them lie down, declares the Lord GOD. [16] I will seek the lost, and I will bring back the strayed, and I will bind up the injured, and I will strengthen the weak, and the fat and the strong I will destroy. I will feed them in justice.
[Psalm 23:1-6 NKJV] A Psalm of David. The LORD [is] my shepherd; I shall not want. [2] He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. [3] He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. [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. [5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. [6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.
[John 10:7-9] so he explained it to them: "I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. [8] All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. [9] Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures.
Who are the sheep?: ______ _____________
Who should they listen to?: the voice of ______________, not “thieves and robbers.”
What does a gate do for sheep?:
-
It keeps the sheep ____________ from harm at night
-
It allows them to live and be _______________ in the fields during the day.
Jesus is the entry-point to finding _______________ & ____________ along with _____________ & _________________.
[1 John 1:8-10 NLT] If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth. [9] But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. [10] If we claim we have not sinned, we are calling God a liar and showing that his word has no place in our hearts.
We are all spiritually ___________. ___________ it. ___________ it. And ___________ what Jesus tells you.
[John 10:1-5] "I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! [2] But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. [3] The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. [4] After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. [5] They won't follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don't know his voice."
When you can’t ___________ clearly, follow the ___________ of Jesus.
[Jeremiah 23:1, 5 NLT] "What sorrow awaits the leaders of my people--the shepherds of my sheep--for they have destroyed and scattered the very ones they were expected to care for," says the LORD. [5] "For the time is coming," says the LORD, "when I will raise up a righteous descendant from King David's line. He will be a King who rules with wisdom. He will do what is just and right throughout the land.
[Micah 2:12-13] "Someday, O Israel, I will gather you; I will gather the remnant who are left. I will bring you together again like sheep in a pen, like a flock in its pasture. Yes, your land will again be filled with noisy crowds! [13] Your leader will break out and lead you out of exile, out through the gates of the enemy cities, back to your own land. Your king will lead you; the LORD himself will guide you."
[John 10:6-10] Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn't understand what he meant, [7] so he explained it to them: "I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. [8] All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. [9] Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. [10] The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.
[John 14:6] Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.
___________ and _________________ the voice of Jesus so that you will ___________ from anything that would “steal and kill and destroy” your “rich and satisfying life”.
Don’t leave the ___________ open on your life.
[John 8:12 ESV] Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."
The Light of Christ help us to avoid ________________ into sin.
The light of God is ________________ than the darkness of this world.
We all fall short of God’s standard, which is _____________.
[Psalm 27:1a ESV] The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
When you walk in light, you have ________________ hope in him
[John 8:31-32 ESV] So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, [32] and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
The truth is that we all need _____ ________________, one who pardons us, takes our punishment, and give us new life.
[Matthew 5:14-16 ESV] "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. [15] Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. [16] In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
[1 John 1:5-9 ESV] This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. [6] If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. [7] But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. [8] If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. [9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
[John 6:25-29] They found him on the other side of the lake and asked, "Rabbi, when did you get here?" [26] Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, you want to be with me because I fed you, not because you understood the miraculous signs. [27] But don't be so concerned about perishable things like food. Spend your energy seeking the eternal life that the Son of Man can give you. For God the Father has given me the seal of his approval." [28] They replied, "We want to perform God's works, too. What should we do?" [29] Jesus told them, "This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one he has sent."
Pursue the _______________, not just the _______________.
Jesus is trying to shift our focus from _______________ concerns to _______________ life.
__________ Jesus is, is greater than _______________ Jesus did.
If we _______________ Jesus is the Son of God, then we will _______________ the way he showed us to.
[John 6:30-36] They answered, "Show us a miraculous sign if you want us to believe in you. What can you do? [31] After all, our ancestors ate manna while they journeyed through the wilderness! The Scriptures say, 'Moses gave them bread from heaven to eat.'" [32] Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, Moses didn't give you bread from heaven. My Father did. And now he offers you the true bread from heaven. [33] The true bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." [34] "Sir," they said, "give us that bread every day." [35] Jesus replied, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. [36] But you haven't believed in me even though you have seen me.
When Jesus says He is the _______________ of _____________, he is saying that He sustains life.
[John 6:47-59] "I tell you the truth, anyone who believes has eternal life. [48] Yes, I am the bread of life! [49] Your ancestors ate manna in the wilderness, but they all died. [50] Anyone who eats the bread from heaven, however, will never die. [51] I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live forever; and this bread, which I will offer so the world may live, is my flesh." [52] Then the people began arguing with each other about what he meant. "How can this man give us his flesh to eat?" they asked. [53] So Jesus said again, "I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you cannot have eternal life within you. [54] But anyone who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise that person at the last day. [55] For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. [56] Anyone who eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him. [57] I live because of the living Father who sent me; in the same way, anyone who feeds on me will live because of me. [58] I am the true bread that came down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will not die as your ancestors did (even though they ate the manna) but will live forever." [59] He said these things while he was teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum.
Physical food will leave you _______________, but Jesus always _______________.
The ________________ never lets you down, but people may.
God wants you to be a part of something ________________ than ________________.
[Matthew 16:13-18 NIV] When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" [14] They replied, "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets." [15] "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" [16] Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." [17] Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. [18] And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.
Ekklesia: a ________________ of citizens called out from their homes into some public place, an assembly or congregation.
Jesus came to build a ____________________ not a ________________!
[Matthew 28:18-20] Jesus came and told his disciples, "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. [19] Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. [20] Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
For many the Great _________________ has become the Great ________________.
[Matthew 11:12 GW] From the time of John the Baptizer until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful people have been seizing it.
Our job is to work to ________________ His Kingdom.
[Romans 10:14-15] But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? [15] And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, "How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!"
We are not only ________________ by Jesus, we are also ________________ to do His work.
[2 Corinthians 5:17-18] This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! [18] And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him.
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The Bible is brutally honest about the ______________ of its main characters.
[2 Corinthians 5:21] For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.
The life of Jesus was so extraordinary that it broke the __________________.
When Jesus ______________ His closest followers thought it was ______________.
[1 Corinthians 15:3-6] I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. [4] He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. [5] He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. [6] After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died.
The early church was based on the belief that Jesus ______________ from the dead.
The disciples didn't die for a _________________, they were dying because they believe Jesus _____________ from the dead.
[1 Corinthians 15:14-19] And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless. [15] And we apostles would all be lying about God--for we have said that God raised Christ from the grave. But that can't be true if there is no resurrection of the dead. [16] And if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised. [17] And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins. [18] In that case, all who have died believing in Christ are lost! [19] And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world.
If Jesus had the power to rise from the dead then He has the power to ______________ ______________.
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[Romans 3:23] For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard.
None of us are ___________________.
[Psalm 51:4-5] Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight. You will be proved right in what you say, and your judgment against me is just. [5] For I was born a sinner--yes, from the moment my mother conceived me.
Before we can appreciate God's _______________, we have to understand the heaviness of our _______________.
Sin ___________________ our relationship with God.
[1 John 1:8] If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.
[Matthew 5:20-22, 27-28] "But I warn you--unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven! [21] "You have heard that our ancestors were told, 'You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.' [22] But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell. [27] "You have heard the commandment that says, 'You must not commit adultery.' [28] But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Jesus came to save ___________________ people.
[Mark 7:21-23] For from within, out of a person's heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, [22] adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. [23] All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you."
Jesus wants to give you a ___________________ transplant.
[John 8:10-11] Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, "Where are your accusers? Didn't even one of them condemn you?" [11] "No, Lord," she said. And Jesus said, "Neither do I. Go and sin no more."
Jesus only points out sin to bring _______________________.
[1 John 1:9] But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.
Jesus is the only one who offers a ___________________ to the sin problem.
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We need to allow God to __________________ the things in our lives that are ____________ from Him.
[2 Timothy 3:16-17] All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. [17] God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.
God's Word has stood test of __________________.
The textual ______________________ and __________________ of the Bible is far greater than any other ancient document.
[Job 26:7-8] God stretches the northern sky over empty space and hangs the earth on nothing. [8] He wraps the rain in his thick clouds, and the clouds don't burst with the weight.
The Bible is the most __________________ accurate ancient document in existence.
Discovery after discovery __________________ that the Bible is true.
[2 Kings 10:27] They smashed the sacred pillar and wrecked the temple of Baal, converting it into a public toilet, as it remains to this day.
We know the Bible is the Word of God because of fulfillment of ________________ _________________.
We don't just read the Bible, it ________________ us.
Only God's Word has the power to _________________ your life.
[Hebrews 4:12] For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
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God specializes in restoring ________________ people.
[Acts 12:11-16] Peter finally came to his senses. "It's really true!" he said. "The Lord has sent his angel and saved me from Herod and from what the Jewish leaders had planned to do to me!" [12] When he realized this, he went to the home of Mary, the mother of John Mark, where many were gathered for prayer. [13] He knocked at the door in the gate, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to open it. [14] When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed that, instead of opening the door, she ran back inside and told everyone, "Peter is standing at the door!" [15] "You're out of your mind!" they said. When she insisted, they decided, "It must be his angel." [16] Meanwhile, Peter continued knocking. When they finally opened the door and saw him, they were amazed.
Never underestimate the _____________ of ______________!
[Acts 13:4-5; 13] So Barnabas and Saul were sent out by the Holy Spirit. They went down to the seaport of Seleucia and then sailed for the island of Cyprus. [5] There, in the town of Salamis, they went to the Jewish synagogues and preached the word of God. John Mark went with them as their assistant. [13] Paul and his companions then left Paphos by ship for Pamphylia, landing at the port town of Perga. There John Mark left them and returned to Jerusalem.
God will never ________________ you off.
[Acts 15:36-40] After some time Paul said to Barnabas, "Let's go back and visit each city where we previously preached the word of the Lord, to see how the new believers are doing." [37] Barnabas agreed and wanted to take along John Mark. [38] But Paul disagreed strongly, since John Mark had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in their work. [39] Their disagreement was so sharp that they separated. Barnabas took John Mark with him and sailed for Cyprus. [40] Paul chose Silas, and as he left, the believers entrusted him to the Lord's gracious care.
Extend ______________________ and ________________ to someone who doesn't deserve it.
God has ________________ in ________________ for you!
[1 Peter 5:13] Your sister church here in Babylon sends you greetings, and so does my son Mark.
God wants to use ____________ to restore _______________.
[2 Timothy 4:9-11] Timothy, please come as soon as you can. [10] Demas has deserted me because he loves the things of this life and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus has gone to Dalmatia. [11] Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you when you come, for he will be helpful to me in my ministry.
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Anyone can be _________________ through God's POWER.
[Matthew 26:31-35] On the way, Jesus told them, "Tonight all of you will desert me. For the Scriptures say, 'God will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.' [32] But after I have been raised from the dead, I will go ahead of you to Galilee and meet you there." [33] Peter declared, "Even if everyone else deserts you, I will never desert you." [34] Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, Peter--this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny three times that you even know me." [35] "No!" Peter insisted. "Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!" And all the other disciples vowed the same.
_________________ opinion should matter more than the opinion of _________________.
[Mark 16:7] Now go and tell his disciples, including Peter, that Jesus is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there, just as he told you before he died."
God wants us even when we feel _____________________.
[John 21:3-9 NLT] Simon Peter said, "I'm going fishing." "We'll come, too," they all said. So they went out in the boat, but they caught nothing all night. [4] At dawn Jesus was standing on the beach, but the disciples couldn't see who he was. [5] He called out, "Fellows, have you caught any fish?" "No," they replied. [6] Then he said, "Throw out your net on the right-hand side of the boat, and you'll get some!" So they did, and they couldn't haul in the net because there were so many fish in it. [7] Then the disciple Jesus loved said to Peter, "It's the Lord!" When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his tunic (for he had stripped for work), jumped into the water, and headed to shore. [8] The others stayed with the boat and pulled the loaded net to the shore, for they were only about a hundred yards from shore. [9] When they got there, they found breakfast waiting for them--fish cooking over a charcoal fire, and some bread.
God not only _________________, but he also restores.
[John 21:15-17 NLT] [15] After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?" "Yes, Lord," Peter replied, "you know I love you." "Then feed my lambs," Jesus told him. [16] Jesus repeated the question: "Simon son of John, do you love me?" "Yes, Lord," Peter said, "you know I love you." "Then take care of my sheep," Jesus said. [17] A third time he asked him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, "Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you." Jesus said, "Then feed my sheep.
Failure isn’t a _______________ it’s an ________________.
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[Joshua 2:1] Then Joshua secretly sent out two spies from the Israelite camp at Acacia Grove. He instructed them, "Scout out the land on the other side of the Jordan River, especially around Jericho." So the two men set out and came to the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there that night.
God saves _____________________ people.
[Joshua 2:8-13] Before the spies went to sleep that night, Rahab went up on the roof to talk with them. [9] "I know the LORD has given you this land," she told them. "We are all afraid of you. Everyone in the land is living in terror. [10] For we have heard how the LORD made a dry path for you through the Red Sea when you left Egypt. And we know what you did to Sihon and Og, the two Amorite kings east of the Jordan River, whose people you completely destroyed. [11] No wonder our hearts have melted in fear! No one has the courage to fight after hearing such things. For the LORD your God is the supreme God of the heavens above and the earth below. [12] "Now swear to me by the LORD that you will be kind to me and my family since I have helped you. Give me some guarantee that [13] when Jericho is conquered, you will let me live, along with my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all their families."
God _____________ when we step out in ______________.
When you have faith, your _____________ doesn't need to dictate your __________________.
[Matthew 1:5-6] Salmon was the father of Boaz (whose mother was Rahab). Boaz was the father of Obed (whose mother was Ruth). Obed was the father of Jesse. [6] Jesse was the father of King David. David was the father of Solomon (whose mother was Bathsheba, the widow of Uriah).
You are not too __________________ to be used by God.
[Hebrews 11:31-32] It was by faith that Rahab the prostitute was not destroyed with the people in her city who refused to obey God. For she had given a friendly welcome to the spies. [32] How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets.
We can walk in faith even when the _____________ are ________________ against us.
[James 2:25-26] Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road. [26] Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.
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[John 3:1] There was a man named Nicodemus, a Jewish religious leader who was a Pharisee.
Many people would rather follow _______________ than follow _______________.
God isn't ___________________ with your behavior.
[John 3:2] After dark one evening, he came to speak with Jesus. "Rabbi," he said, "we all know that God has sent you to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with you."
If you find yourself in the _______________, turn to Jesus.
[John 3:3-5] Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God." [4] "What do you mean?" exclaimed Nicodemus. "How can an old man go back into his mother's womb and be born again?" [5] Jesus replied, "I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit.
Following Jesus isn't about trying _______________, it's about starting _______________.
[John 3:16-17] “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. [17]God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.
Jesus wants to change your _______________ not just your _____________________.
[John 7:48-51] “Is there a single one of us rulers or Pharisees who believes in him? [49]This foolish crowd follows him, but they are ignorant of the law. God’s curse is on them!” [50] Then Nicodemus, the leader who had met with Jesus earlier, spoke up. [51] “Is it legal to convict a man before he is given a hearing?” he asked.
The RESTORATION process usually takes time.
[John 19:38-42] Afterward Joseph of Arimathea, who had been a secret disciple of Jesus (because he feared the Jewish leaders), asked Pilate for permission to take down Jesus’ body. When Pilate gave permission, Joseph came and took the body away. [39] With him came Nicodemus, the man who had come to Jesus at night. He brought about seventy-five pounds of perfumed ointment made from myrrh and aloes. [40] Following Jewish burial custom, they wrapped Jesus’ body with the spices in long sheets of linen cloth. [41] The place of crucifixion was near a garden, where there was a new tomb, never used before. [42] And so, because it was the day of preparation for the Jewish Passover and since the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there.
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One _________________ with Jesus will change the course of your life.
[Luke 19:1-4] Jesus entered Jericho and made his way through the town. [2] There was a man there named Zacchaeus. He was the chief tax collector in the region, and he had become very rich. [3] He tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short to see over the crowd. [4] So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree beside the road, for Jesus was going to pass that way.
If you _________________ Jesus, He'll ________________ himself to you.
[Luke 19:5] When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. "Zacchaeus!" he said. "Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today."
Jesus sees you even if everyone else _________________ and _________________ you.
[Luke 19:6-7] Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. [7] But the people were displeased. "He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner," they grumbled.
God's forgiveness should inspire ______________________.
[Luke 19:8] Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, "I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!"
Jesus is not your _________________, He is your _________________.
[Romans 2:4] Don't you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can't you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?
God's _________________ comes before our repentance.
[Luke 19:9-10] Jesus responded, "Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham. [10] For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost."
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God specializes in ________________ people.
Jesus can ________________ us as if we had never been ________________.
Luke 8:1-3 Soon afterward Jesus began a tour of the nearby towns and villages, preaching and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom of God. He took his twelve disciples with him, 2 along with some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases. Among them were Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons; 3 Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's business manager; Susanna; and many others who were contributing from their own resources to support Jesus and his disciples.
God is ________________ to the ________________ you face.
Our ________________ actions should reflect our ________________ transformation.
If you've been ________________, the only reasonable response is to ________________ Him.
Matthew 27:55-56 ESV There were also many women there, looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him, 56 among whom were Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Joseph and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.
You don't have to be a ________________ to ________________ like one.
Mark 16:1, 9-10 Saturday evening, when the Sabbath ended, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome went out and purchased burial spices so they could anoint Jesus' body. 9 After Jesus rose from the dead early on Sunday morning, the first person who saw him was Mary Magdalene, the woman from whom he had cast out seven demons. 10 She went to the disciples, who were grieving and weeping, and told them what had happened.
2 Corinthians 5:15, 17 He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them. 17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
God always offers ________________ chance.
You will never fully appreciate the ______________ News until you fully grasp the ______________ news.
Nahum 1:2 The LORD is a jealous God, filled with vengeance and rage. He takes revenge on all who oppose him and continues to rage against his enemies!
If you don't realize that you have a _______________ you'll never reach out for the ______________.
Romans 2:4-8 Don't you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can't you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? 5 But because you are stubborn and refuse to turn from your sin, you are storing up terrible punishment for yourself. For a day of anger is coming, when God's righteous judgment will be revealed. 6 He will judge everyone according to what they have done. 7 He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers. 8 But he will pour out his anger and wrath on those who live for themselves, who refuse to obey the truth and instead live lives of wickedness.
God is never ______________ towards evil.
If you only see God as ______________ you have the wrong idea of God.
Romans 5:8-11 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. 9 And since we have been made right in God's sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God's condemnation. 10 For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son. 11 So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.
Because of what Jesus did on the ______________ we can escape God's ______________.
1 Thessalonians 5:9-10 For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. 10 Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever.
Matthew 19:16-22 Someone came to Jesus with this question: “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” 17 “Why ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. But to answer your question—if you want to receive eternal life, keep the commandments.” 18 “Which ones?” the man asked. And Jesus replied: “‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. 19 Honor your father and mother. Love your neighbor as yourself.’” 20 “I’ve obeyed all these commandments,” the young man replied. “What else must I do?” 21 Jesus told him, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 22 But when the young man heard this, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.
Many want Jesus as an _______________, but not as their _______________.
James 1:22-25 But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. 23 For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. 24 You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. 25 But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.
You may not always have _______________, but you can _______________ God.
Matthew 16:24-25 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. 25 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.
God doesn't want to be ______________ _______________.
Faith in God is _______________ control to Him.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. 6 Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
You should trust God in the _______________ days and you should trust God in the _______________ days.
Don't trust your _______________ to a ________________ God.
We are not ________________ to God.
Psalm 25:14 The Lord is a friend to those who fear him. He teaches them his covenant.
Fear of the Lord means you have ________________ ________________ for God.
Luke 12:4-5“Dear friends, don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot do any more to you after that. 5 But I’ll tell you whom to fear. Fear God, who has the power to kill you and then throw you into hell. Yes, he’s the one to fear.
We like a God who ________________ us, but reject a God who ________________ us of sin.
Proverbs 8:13 All who fear the Lord will hate evil. Therefore, I hate pride and arrogance, corruption and perverse speech.
We can't say we fear God when we ________________ the very things He ________________.
John 15:14-15You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.
People want God as their ________________, but forget He's also their ________________.
2 Corinthians 7:1 Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God.
God doesn't ________________ sin, He ________________ sin.
Psalm 89:5-8The heavens praise your wonders, Lord, your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones. 6 For who in the skies above can compare with the Lord? Who is like the Lord among the heavenly beings? 7 In the council of the holy ones God is greatly feared; he is more awesome than all who surround him. 8 Who is like you, Lord God Almighty? You, Lord, are mighty, and your faithfulness surrounds you.
What you ______________ about God affects how you see yourself.
2 Timothy 3:1-5 In the last days there will be very difficult times. 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. 3 They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. 4 They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. 5 They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!
Our view of God needs to come from ______________ not our personal ______________ and preferences.
A distorted view of ______________ leads to a distorted view of ______________.
Psalm 100:3 Acknowledge that the Lord is God! He made us, and we are his. We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
God doesn't exist to ______________ us, we exist to ______________ Him.
1 John 4:9-10 God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. 10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
Romans 8:35-39 Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? 36 (As the Scriptures say, “For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.”) 37 No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. 38 And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. 39 No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
God doesn't _____________ His love when He answers our prayers; He _____________ His love when He sent His Son.
Romans 5:8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
It takes ______________ to trust God in the difficult times.
Isaiah 55:8-11 “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. 9 For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.
Isaiah 53:5-6 But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. 6 All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God’s paths to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on him the sins of us all.
Jesus came to ______________ our sin.
Matthew 20:18-19 “Listen,” he said, “we’re going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die. 19 Then they will hand him over to the Romans to be mocked, flogged with a whip, and crucified, but on the third day he will be raised from the dead.”
The fulfillment of ______________ proves that Jesus is who He says He is.
Luke 24:1-8 But very early on Sunday morning the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. 2 They found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. 3 So they went in, but they didn’t find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared to them, clothed in dazzling robes. 5 The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? 6 He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee,7 that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day.” 8 Then they remembered that he had said this.
We worship a risen ______________ who walked out of that ______________.
John 3:14-17And as Moses lifted up the bronze snake on a pole in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in him will have eternal life. 16 “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. 17 God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.
Death doesn't have the ______________ ______________.
Jesus was not a ______________ he was ______________.
Romans 10:9 If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Hebrews 9:13-14 Under the old system, the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer could cleanse people’s bodies from ceremonial impurity. 14 Just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit,Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins.
1 Peter 2:24He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds you are healed.
After 2 great Worship Nights at our Torrington and New Britain campuses, we top off our 3 Nights of Praise at our main campus in Terryville. Our lead pastor Judah Thomas said a few words and here they are. Grab a cracker and some grape juice or a pastry and water or whatever you have available and join us as we have communion.
Welcome to ThriveChurch! We are so glad you are joining us online for service.
Matthew 17:20 “You don’t have enough faith,” Jesus told them. “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.”
Those who walk in ____________ will see the __________________.
Luke 7:1-10 ESV After Jesus had finished saying all these things to the people who were listening, he went into Capernaum. 2 A centurion’s servant, who was valuable to him, was sick and about to die. 3 When the centurion heard about Jesus, he sent some elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and heal his servant. 4 When they came to Jesus, they begged him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy of having you do this for him, 5 because he loves our nation, and he built our synagogue for us.” 6 Jesus went with them. When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to tell Jesus, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, because I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. 7 That is why I did not consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I am also a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. I say to this one, ‘Go!’ and he goes; and to another one, ‘Come!’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard these things, he was amazed at him. He turned to the crowd that was following him and said, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel.” 10 And when the men who had been sent returned to the house, they found the servant well.
Jesus has __________________ over all things.
Psalms 107:20 He sent out his word and healed them, snatching them from the door of death.
When you embrace the words of Jesus, it _______________ the power of God.
God wants us to have a ______________ and __________________ faith.
James 1:6-8 But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. 7 Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.
______________ comes before the __________________.
Mark 4:35-37As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” 36 So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). 37 But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water.
There will be storms even when you are in ____________ ____________.
Mark 4:38Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?”
Just because God doesn't ____________ to you doesn't mean He doesn't ____________ about you.
God will fulfill His ____________ but He doesn't always fulfill ____________.
Storms are sent to show us that God is in ______________.
John 16:33 NIV "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
God never said He'd keep you ____________ the storm, He said He'd be with you ____________ the storm.
Mark 4:39-40When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. 40 Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?”
God's ________________ is greater than my _______________.
Romans 8:31b If God is for us, who can ever be against us?
I'm never out of _______________ when I know He's in ________________.
Mark 4:35-41The disciples were absolutely terrified. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “Even the wind and waves obey him!”
John 2:1-3 The next day there was a wedding celebration in the village of Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, 2 and Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the celebration. 3 The wine supply ran out during the festivities, so Jesus’ mother told him, “They have no more wine.”
Your ________________ is an opportunity for God's ________________.
John 2:4-8“Dear woman, that’s not our problem,” Jesus replied. “My time has not yet come.” 5 But his mother told the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” 6 Standing nearby were six stone water jars, used for Jewish ceremonial washing. Each could hold twenty to thirty gallons. 7 Jesus told the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” When the jars had been filled, 8 he said, “Now dip some out, and take it to the master of ceremonies.” So the servants followed his instructions.
Our ________________ and obedience can ________________ God's miracles.
James 2:17 ESV So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
If you don't ________________ on your faith, then your faith is ________________.
Have the faith to keep ________________ Jesus even when it feels like it isn't ________________.
John 2:9-10When the master of ceremonies tasted the water that was now wine, not knowing where it had come from (though, of course, the servants knew), he called the bridegroom over. 10 “A host always serves the best wine first,” he said. “Then, when everyone has had a lot to drink, he brings out the less expensive wine. But you have kept the best until now!”
God’s ________________ is coming.
Jesus can make a ________________ out of the ________________.
Philippians 4:19 CSB And my God will supply all your needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Our ________________ allows God to reveal His ________________.
Mark 8:22-25 When they arrived at Bethsaida, some people brought a blind man to Jesus, and they begged him to touch the man and heal him. 23 Jesus took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village. Then, spitting on the man’s eyes, he laid his hands on him and asked, “Can you see anything now?” 24 The man looked around. “Yes,” he said, “I see people, but I can’t see them very clearly. They look like trees walking around.” 25 Then Jesus placed his hands on the man’s eyes again, and his eyes were opened. His sight was completely restored, and he could see everything clearly.
Spiritual blindness prevents us from distinguishing ________________ from ________________.
Many people don't want to see clearly, because it may require a change of ________________.
Isaiah 5:20What sorrow for those who say that evil is good and good is evil, that dark is light and light is dark, that bitter is sweet and sweet is bitter.
The devil's goal is to blur your vision so that you don't know ________________ from ________________.
2 Corinthians 4:4Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.
You cannot navigate ________________ with blurred vision.
Proverbs 21:2People may be right in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their heart.
God's Word is the ________________.
The Word of God brings ________________.
John 9:39Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.”
We refocus our vision by putting our eyes on ____________.
____________ ____________ are something you can't see on your own. Jonah 4:5-11 Then Jonah went out to the east side of the city and made a shelter to sit under as he waited to see what would happen to the city. 6 And the Lord God arranged for a leafy plant to grow there, and soon it spread its broad leaves over Jonah’s head, shading him from the sun. This eased his discomfort, and Jonah was very grateful for the plant. 7 But God also arranged for a worm! The next morning at dawn the worm ate through the stem of the plant so that it withered away. 8 And as the sun grew hot, God arranged for a scorching east wind to blow on Jonah. The sun beat down on his head until he grew faint and wished to die. “Death is certainly better than living like this!” he exclaimed. 9 Then God said to Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry because the plant died?” “Yes,” Jonah retorted, “even angry enough to die!” 10 Then the Lord said, “You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there. It came quickly and died quickly. 11 But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn’t I feel sorry for such a great city?” A blind spot is a place that we have not let God __________________. Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. We don't want to be around toxic ____________, but have we ever asked what's ________________________ in me? 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. The Holy Spirit will use ________________ to point out your blind spots. God will often use ___________ to point out our blind spots. There's something ____________ with never thinking you're ____________. Proverbs 15:31-32 If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. 32 If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself; but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding. A ____________ person receives correction.
Spiritual farsightedness happens when we focus _________ much on _________________.
Luke 13:10-17One Sabbath day as Jesus was teaching in a synagogue, 11 he saw a woman who had been crippled by an evil spirit. She had been bent double for eighteen years and was unable to stand up straight. 12 When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, “Dear woman, you are healed of your sickness!” 13 Then he touched her, and instantly she could stand straight. How she praised God! 14 But the leader in charge of the synagogue was indignant that Jesus had healed her on the Sabbath day. “There are six days of the week for working,” he said to the crowd. “Come on those days to be healed, not on the Sabbath.” 15 But the Lord replied, “You hypocrites! Each of you works on the Sabbath day! Don’t you untie your ox or your donkey from its stall on the Sabbath and lead it out for water? 16 This dear woman, a daughter of Abraham, has been held in bondage by Satan for eighteen years. Isn’t it right that she be released, even on the Sabbath?” 17 This shamed his enemies, but all the people rejoiced at the wonderful things he did.
Farsighted people always focus on the _____________ of others.
It is a problem if you find yourself ______________________ being critical of others.
James 4:11-12Don’t speak evil against each other, dear brothers and sisters. If you criticize and judge each other, then you are criticizing and judging God’s law. But your job is to obey the law, not to judge whether it applies to you. 12 God alone, who gave the law, is the Judge. He alone has the power to save or to destroy. So what right do you have to judge your neighbor?
The person you ____________________ is the person you are called to _________________.
Being critical of others does not _________________ God.
Revelation 3:17 You say, ‘I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!’ And you don’t realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked.
We are all _________________ at the feet of Jesus.
Matthew 7:1-5 “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. 2 For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. 3 “And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own? 4 How can you think of saying to your friend, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? 5 Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye.
Focusing on someone else's problem and not your own is _____________________.
We develop an “I Problem” when we lose the ability to _______________ on the _______________ things.
2 Timothy 3:1-5 You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. 3 They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. 4 They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. 5 They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!
A self-centered person expects __________________ and __________________ to revolve around them.
Galatians 6:3 NIV If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves.
Selfish _______________ reveal a self-centered life.
James 4:2-3 You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. 3 And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure.
God becomes _______________ when my pleasure is central to my life.
Spiritual nearsightedness prevents you from seeing the _______________ of others.
Ephesians 1:12God’s purpose was that we Jews who were the first to trust in Christ would bring praise and glory to God.
God has called us to bring Him _______________ and _______________.
God did not create us to worship __________________, He wants us to worship Him.
Philippians 2:3-4Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.
You will feel _______________ about yourself when you take your _______________ off yourself.
A ________________ person is a resilient person.
We don't live under _________, we live under __________.
Acts 20:35 And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
A giver looks to find ________________ to be generous.
Proverbs 11:24-25, 28 Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything. 25 The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. 28 Trust in your money and down you go! But the godly flourish like leaves in spring.
Generosity may bring the spiritual ________________ that you have been waiting for.
2 Corinthians 9:6-8Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.
We give out of ________________ not out of compulsion.
Matthew 6:19-21“Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.
Our generosity is the _____ that __________ God's blessing.
The ________________ are the ________________ people in the world.
John 12:1-3 Six days before the Passover celebration began, Jesus arrived in Bethany, the home of Lazarus—the man he had raised from the dead. 2 A dinner was prepared in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, and Lazarus was among those who ate with him. 3 Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance.
The only treasure that lasts is what you _______ ________.
Genesis 28:15-16What’s more, I am with you, and I will protect you wherever you go. One day I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have finished giving you everything I have promised you.” 16 Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I wasn’t even aware of it!”
God is with you even if you don't ________________ it.
John 14:15-17“If you love me, obey my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. 17 He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.
We hear God's voice best in times of ________________.
Jesus is calling us away from the ________________ and into His presence.
Psalm 16:8-11I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. 9 No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety. 10 For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your holy one to rot in the grave. 11 You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.
We are ________________ in God's presence.
You don't need to be ________________ when God is beside you.
John 15:1-5 “I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. 3 You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. 5 “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.
God wants you to ________________ in His presence.
Acts 3:19-20Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. 20 Then times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord, and he will again send you Jesus, your appointed Messiah.
God is speaking but are you ________________?
Psalm 119:105Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
God's Word has the power to _______________ us.
Job 23:12I have not departed from his commands, but have treasured his words more than daily food.
_______________ God's Word daily is the key to living a _______________ Christian life.
John 15:7But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!
The _______________ way God speaks to us is through ___________________.
God _______________ those who _______________ on Scripture.
Psalm 1:1-3Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. 2 But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. 3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.
It's not enough to _______________ God's Word, we also need to _______________ it.
Psalm 119:9-11How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. 10 I have tried hard to find you—don’t let me wander from your commands. 11 I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.
God's Word never changes but is always _______________.
James 1:22-25But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. 23 For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. 24 You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. 25 But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.