2024-10-13 DEEP FAITH FOR TROUBLESOME TIMES

Title: Deep Faith for Troublesome Times

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos around you? You're not alone. We live in turbulent times, and it can be challenging to navigate the storms of life. But what if I told you that there's a way to find peace and strength amidst the chaos? The key lies in developing a deep, personal faith in Jesus Christ. This isn't about keeping your faith private or hidden; it's about letting it flourish and transform your life. So, how can you cultivate a faith that stands strong in the face of adversity?

Replace Private Faith with Personal Faith

The first step is to replace a private faith with a personal one. A private faith is often ritualistic, comfortable, and controlled by our own desires. It's like checking off a list of religious duties without truly engaging with God. But a personal faith is different. It's centered on the gospel of Jesus Christ and is motivated by love. It's a faith that responds to God's word with a desire to follow Him, not out of obligation, but out of a genuine longing to know Him more.

Personal faith is also public. It leads us to live out our beliefs in a way that others can see. It's about trusting God at all times and allowing Him to work in and through us. When we have a personal faith, we find ourselves drawing closer to Christ, especially in times of trouble. It's never too early or too late to make this shift. Whether you're young or old, now is the time to deepen your faith.

Trade Momentary Affliction for Eternal Glory

When your faith is personal and deep, you can begin to trade momentary afflictions for eternal glory. The troubles we face are temporary, but the glory that awaits us in Christ is eternal. This perspective helps us endure hardships with hope, knowing that God is just and will ultimately vindicate us. Our trials are not in vain; they are opportunities to grow closer to Jesus and to reflect His glory to the world.

Rely Less on Yourself and More on God

Finally, a deep faith means relying less on yourself and more on God's work in your life. It's about recognizing that God is the one who empowers us to do good and fulfill His purposes. When we stop trying to control everything and start trusting in His power, we find true freedom and strength. This reliance on God is what sustains us through the ups and downs of life.

So, what will you do this week to deepen your faith? Will you choose to make it personal, to let it be seen, and to trust God more fully? Remember, without taking this step, you might miss out on the peace and strength that Jesus wants to give you.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of faith. Help us to move from a private faith to a personal one that is centered on Jesus and motivated by love. Teach us to trust You more and to rely on Your strength in all circumstances. May our lives reflect Your glory, and may we find peace in Your presence. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2024-09-29 UNTIL JESUS COMES...

Title: Building a Gospel Community at Highland

How often do you think about what we’re building together at Highland Baptist Church? You might walk in and out of the building every week, but have you ever paused to consider what our collective efforts are creating? If you’re like most of us, you might not have given it much thought. But understanding our mission is crucial for our growth and unity as a church family.

At Highland, we’re committed to building a gospel-shaped community. This means everything we do—from how we spend our money to how we invest our time—is aimed at creating a community that reflects the teachings and love of Jesus Christ. But how do we achieve this? Let’s explore four key actions that can guide us in building this gospel community until Jesus comes.

1. Honor Those Who Lead You

Until Jesus comes, we are called to honor those who lead us. In 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, Paul urges us to recognize and respect those who labor among us and lead us in the Lord. These leaders work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to guide us in our spiritual journey. They could be our deacons, growth group leaders, or even those who serve in children’s ministry.

How can you honor them?

• Recognize their efforts: Take note of their hard work and dedication.
• Regard them highly in love: Show genuine love and appreciation for their service.
• Live peaceably: Avoid conflicts and support their leadership.

2. Encourage the Weak

Until Jesus comes, we must encourage the weak among us. Paul gives us a clear directive in 1 Thessalonians 5:14-15 to warn the idle, comfort the discouraged, help the weak, and be patient with everyone. The weak could be those struggling with physical ailments, spiritual doubts, or life’s challenges.

How can you encourage them?

• Warn the idle: Lovingly correct those who are straying from their path.
• Comfort the discouraged: Offer a listening ear and a comforting word to those who are downhearted.
• Help the weak: Provide support, whether it’s through prayer, a helping hand, or just being there for them.
• Be patient: Understand that everyone’s journey is different and requires time and grace.

3. Continue Personal Spiritual Growth

Until Jesus comes, we must continue our personal spiritual growth. Paul emphasizes the importance of rejoicing always, praying constantly, and giving thanks in everything (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). These outward expressions of faith are crucial for our spiritual development.

How can you grow spiritually?

• Rejoice always: Cultivate a joyful heart that finds its source in Jesus.
• Pray constantly: Make prayer a regular part of your daily routine.
• Give thanks in everything: Recognize God’s grace in all circumstances, even the challenging ones.

4. Let Christ Work in You

Until Jesus comes, let Christ work in you. Paul’s prayer in 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 is a powerful reminder that God is committed to sanctifying us completely. He who calls us is faithful and will complete the work He has begun in us.

How can you let Christ work in you?

• Trust in His faithfulness: Believe that God will complete the work He has started in you.
• Partner with God: Actively participate in your spiritual growth by following Jesus and His teachings.
• Stay connected: Engage with your church community to support and be supported in your faith journey.

Conclusion

Building a gospel community is not a one-time event but a continuous journey. What steps will you take this week to honor your leaders, encourage the weak, grow spiritually, and let Christ work in you? Remember, our faithfulness to the gospel is not measured by numbers or buildings but by our commitment to living out these principles until Jesus comes.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the leaders who guide us, the community that supports us, and the grace that sustains us. Help us to honor those who lead, encourage the weak, and grow in our faith. May we always let Christ work in us, shaping us into a gospel community that reflects Your love and truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.