Introduction

Good morning, friends. Welcome. We gather here today with open hearts and eager minds. We seek wisdom. We seek understanding. We seek truth. The truth that is found in the word of God. The truth that is our guiding light in times of darkness.

Opening Scripture Reading – Our guide for today comes from the book of Daniel. Specifically, Daniel 11:32. It reads, "With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him."

This passage, my friends, speaks to us on many levels. It talks about knowing God. It talks about resisting evil, actions guided by divine direction, and accomplishing great things through enlightenment from God. Isn't it true that we all seek to know God better? Isn't it true that we all wish to resist the evil that threatens to corrupt our world? Isn't it true that we all yearn to act with divine direction? Isn't it true that we all aspire to accomplish great things through God's enlightenment?

The great G.K. Chesterton once said, "The riddles of God are more satisfying than the solutions of man." So, as we seek answers today, let us remember that the answers we find in God are far more satisfying than any answers we might find elsewhere.

Knowing the King in the Kingdom

In the vast expanse of the universe, there exists a kingdom. A kingdom not bound by the physical constraints of time and space, but a spiritual realm that transcends our human understanding. This kingdom is not governed by human rulers, but by a King who is eternal, omnipotent, and omniscient. This King, my friends, is none other than our God.

God is not distant. Understanding the nature of this King is crucial for our spiritual growth. He is not a distant, impersonal entity, but a loving Father who desires a personal relationship with each one of us. He is not a harsh taskmaster, but a compassionate Shepherd who guides us through the valleys and mountains of life. He is not a silent observer, but an active participant in our lives, working all things together for our good.

The first aspect of knowing this King is recognizing His sovereignty. He is the Creator of the universe, the Sustainer of life, and the Ruler of all. Nothing happens outside of His control. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. His reign is eternal, His power is unmatched, and His wisdom is unsearchable. Recognizing His sovereignty brings us comfort in times of uncertainty, strength in times of weakness, and hope in times of despair.

The second aspect of knowing this King is understanding His character. He is holy, righteous, and just. He is merciful, gracious, and loving. He is faithful, patient, and kind. Understanding His character shapes our view of Him, influences our relationship with Him, and impacts our response to Him. It helps us to trust Him in times of trials, to obey Him in times of temptation, and to worship Him in times of triumph.

The third aspect of knowing this King is experiencing His presence. He is not a distant God, but a present Helper. He is not a silent God, but a speaking Spirit. He is not a hidden God, but a revealing Father. Experiencing His presence brings us joy in times of sorrow, peace in times of turmoil, and comfort in times of pain. It assures us of His love, affirms us of His acceptance, and aligns us with His purposes.

The fourth aspect of knowing this King is responding to His call. He is not a demanding Lord, but a gentle Inviter. He is not a forceful Master, but a humble Servant. He is not a condemning Judge, but a forgiving Savior. Responding to His call leads us to salvation in times of sin, to transformation in times of stagnation, and to mission in times of complacency. It challenges us to repent, compels us to change, and commissions us to serve.

The King in action. In the grand narrative of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, we see this King in action. We see His sovereignty in creation, His character in redemption, His presence in incarnation, and His call in commission. We see His love in sending His Son, His grace in saving sinners, His power in raising the dead, and His promise in preparing a place for us.

Overview/Transition. So, let us strive to know this King in His kingdom. Let us recognize His sovereignty, understand His character, experience His presence, and respond to His call. Let us seek Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Let us draw near to Him with a sincere heart and a humble spirit. Let us abide in Him, and let His words abide in us. Let us walk in His ways, and let His love guide our steps. Let us trust in His promises, and let His truth set us free. Let us live for His glory, and let His kingdom come in our lives.

Doing Deeds with Divine Direction

As we continue to immerse ourselves in the divine wisdom of the scriptures, we find ourselves drawn towards the notion of doing deeds with divine direction ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO