Explore the importance, benefits, and wisdom of trusting in God's plans for us, rather than leaning on our own understanding.
Good morning, church family. We've got a powerful message lined up for you today that's all about trust – specifically, the benefits, results, and wisdom of trusting in God. It's a topic that's close to my heart and I believe it will speak to each one of you in a special way too.
In the words of Max Lucado, "Faith is not the belief that God will do what you want. It is the belief that God will do what is right." Pretty profound, isn't it? Goes to show you that trust in God is not about expecting Him to grant us our every desire, but about believing that His plans for us are always perfect and good.
Our scripture for today is taken from Proverbs 3:1-6, a treasure trove of wisdom. It reads:
"My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
Let's bow our heads for a moment of prayer.
Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for this opportunity to gather together and delve into Your word. We ask for open hearts and minds as we explore the depth of trusting in You. Guide us in understanding and applying this wisdom in our daily lives. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Let's get started.
Trusting in God is not just a spiritual exercise, but it also comes with numerous benefits that can transform our lives in remarkable ways.
Peace: This peace is not the absence of trouble, but the calm assurance in the midst of it. When we trust in God, we have the confidence that no matter what happens, God is in control. This peace surpasses all understanding and guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, as stated in Philippians 4:7. It's a peace that the world cannot give and cannot understand. It's a peace that comes from knowing that our lives are in the hands of a loving God who cares for us deeply.
The strength to face the challenges of life: Life is full of ups and downs, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the trials and tribulations we face. But when we trust in God, we have the assurance that we are not alone. God is with us, and He gives us the strength to overcome. Isaiah 40:31 tells us that those who trust 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. Trusting in God gives us the strength to keep going, even when the going gets tough.
Spiritual growth: When we trust in God, we are essentially surrendering our will to His. We are saying, "Not my will, but Yours be done." This act of surrender leads to spiritual growth because it forces us to rely on God and not on our own understanding. It pushes us out of our comfort zone and challenges us to live by faith and not by sight. As we trust in God, we grow in our knowledge and understanding of Him. We learn to see things from His perspective and not our own. This growth is not always comfortable, but it's always beneficial.
Prosper: In Proverbs 28:25, it says, "Whoever trusts in the Lord will prosper." This doesn't necessarily mean material wealth, but it does mean that God will bless us in ways that truly matter. He will provide for our needs, give us joy in our hearts, and fill our lives with His love and grace. These are blessings that money cannot buy, and they are available to those who trust in God.
Hope for the future: Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." When we trust in God, we have the assurance that our future is in good hands. We don't have to worry about what tomorrow will bring because we know that God holds our tomorrow.
The results of trusting in God are manifold and transformative ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO
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