Sermon Notes: Trusting God Through Uncertain Times

The Foundation of Trust (Psalm 91:1-2)

We all crave a sense of security. We build strong houses, secure good jobs, and nurture loving relationships. But what happens when the storm hits anyway? The Psalmist reminds us in Psalm 91: "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." True security, my friends, comes from dwelling in the presence of God. It's about more than just believing God exists; it's about actively trusting God, relying on Him as our refuge.

Conquering Fear (Psalm 91:3-8)

Fear is natural during storms. It's that primal instinct that keeps us safe. But the Bible, in verses 3-8, gives us reasons not to be afraid. Over and over, it whispers, "Do not fear, for I am with you." God doesn't promise a life without storms, but God promises to be there through them all.  God protects us not with a shield, but like a mother bird sheltering her chicks - taking the initial blow Himself.

Looking to God for Protection (Psalm 91:9-13)

Making God our dwelling place means trusting God's promises. When we seek refuge in Him, verse 9 assures us, "No evil shall befall you, no plague come near your tent." Remember Stonewall Jackson, the great general? Even amidst the chaos of battle, he found unwavering courage because he trusted God's timing.

Finding Rest in God's Love (Psalm 91:14-16)

Resting in God's love means recognizing God's constant care and promises. Because we love God, God promises in verse 14, "Because he holds fast to me, I will deliver him; I will set him on high because he knows my name." This love offers comfort and peace, even when the storm seems endless.

Conclusion

Psalm 91 is a beautiful reminder of God's faithfulness and protection. We may not be guaranteed sunshine, but we are guaranteed God's presence. In the face of life's storms, let us trust God, reject fear, rely on God's protection, and find sweet rest in God's love.

Call to Action

Let's deepen our trust in God during challenging times. Remember God promises and unfailing love, even when difficulties cloud your vision. Seek comfort and strength in prayer and scripture. Just like Farmer Joe with his umbrella, let us face the storm with faith, knowing we are not alone.

Sermon Notes: Drops of Water

 Introduction

The sermon opens by reflecting on the significance of Jesus as the Christ, the anointed one of God, and the challenging journey to this recognition in the first-century context. It contrasts the austere life of John the Baptist with Jesus’ inclusive ministry, setting the stage for exploring their roles in the narrative of salvation.

Body

John the Baptist’s Ministry

John’s ascetic life and radical message attracted followers who anticipated a transformative Messiah to restore Israel.

Jesus’ Ministry and Response to John

Jesus’ response to John’s inquiry through his disciples: He points to tangible acts of mercy and healing as evidence of his messianic identity.

Jesus fulfills Isaiah’s prophecies by healing the blind, enabling the lame to walk, and bringing liberation to the oppressed.

Contrasting Expectations

The tension between John’s expectation of a powerful, judgment-bringing Messiah and Jesus’ demonstration of mercy and compassion.

Highlighting Jesus’ approach of gradual transformation through acts of mercy versus the expectation of dramatic divine intervention.

Contemporary Application

Drawing parallels between the expectations of John and modern-day challenges and disappointments.

Examples of modern compassion (paramedics aiding flood victims, farmer donating hay) illustrate the sermon’s theme of God’s kingdom manifesting through everyday acts of love and justice.

Conclusion

The sermon concludes with a reflection on the enduring impact of Jesus’ ministry, likening it to water shaping stone—gradual yet profoundly transformative. It invites listeners to embrace God’s kingdom unfolding through acts of mercy and to find hope in the ongoing work of love and justice in their own lives.

Final Reflection

In essence, the sermon on Matthew 11:2-11 challenges believers to recognize and participate in God’s kingdom through acts of mercy, compassion, and steadfast faith in Jesus Christ, highlighting the transformative power of small acts of kindness in bringing about God’s kingdom on earth.