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November 14, 2016
Assurance in Trials - Romans 8
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| We all experience hardship, and trials can shake us unless we cling to truth. Let me share three assurances to remember when troublesome circumstances arise.
First, God will always meet our needs. This doesn't mean He provides everything we want. Instead, the Lord will bless us with all that is necessary to fulfill His purpose for our lives. His goal is to sanctify us, not simply to satisfy each immediate desire.
Second, we're never alone. God promised to be with us always (Hebrews 13:5). Loneliness often accompanies hardship, so we may feel deserted or opposed by family and friends. But our Father has sent His Spirit to be with us and in us, until the day He brings us to heaven (John 14:16-17). He is all we need--our advocate, guide, helper, and comforter. Recognizing His intimate presence gives us confidence in the midst of trials.
Third, God's love is eternal. Regardless of our circumstances or poor decisions, His care is unconditional--even when He reprimands us. Loving parents allow disobedient children to experience the consequences of wrong choices; they recognize the benefit of learning from mistakes. Of course, there are also times when we are negatively affected by others' wrong actions. Even then, God is sovereign and allows only what will bring good in His followers' lives.
In difficult times, we can remember that God will meet all of our needs, is always with us, and loves us forever. Though Jesus said we would face troubles in this life, He offered encouragement: The ultimate victory is His. So keep in mind that trials are fleeting, whereas our Father's love is forever.
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Upcoming Sermon Series
Whether we’re nostalgic or overscheduled, this season can find us longing for a simpler time... when the world seemed full of wonder, when joy was wholehearted and love was unrestrained. Let’s re-discover what it means to live and believe Like a Child.
This sermon series will begin on November 27, 2016.
Last Week:
The redeemed owe their gratitude to God. Psalm 107 gives us 4 pictures of His redemption for us. We looked at the first one today: Lost in the Wilderness. We saw the predicament, thier petition, God's pardon, and their praise of God. .
Sunday's message is available for streaming or for download on our
sermons page, or by visiting us on iTunes.
Next Week:
We will finish up the second part of the brief series "Four Portraits of the Thankful Redeemed."
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Upcoming Events
November 14-20, 2016 - Operation Christmas Child Shoe Boxes Collection
November 22, 2016 - Special Thanksgiving Service
November 23, 2016 - No Wednesday Night Service
December 4, 2016 - No Carry-in Fellowship Dinner
December 10, 2016 - Trustee Meeting at 8 AM
December 11, 2016 - Deacon Meeting at 8 AM
December 24, 2016 - Christmas Eve Service at 5 PM
December 25, 2016 - Christmas Day Service at 11 AM, no Sunday School.
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