A JOURNEY OF ANTICIPATION 40 DAY PRAYER GUIDE
Written by Joseph Siacunco, M.Div.
A JOURNEY OF ANTICIPATION PREPARING FOR THE NEXT SEASON AT MISSION HILLS CHURCH AUGUST 1 – SEPTEMBER 9, 2016
INTRODUCTION Join us for the next 40 days in preparing our hearts, minds and souls for what God is doing. Exactly 40 days from the time we begin this prayer journey together, we will give thanks to God together for the provision of our new senior pastor, Craig Smith. The number 40 signified a time of refining and preparation for what God had in store next for His people in biblical times. This marked a period that was often difficult, yet not without hope and certainly not without God’s presence and continual provision. A year and a half ago, we started a journey together through a season that often felt like the wilderness. Deuteronomy 2:7 describes God’s continual provision to his people during their time in the wilderness and says: “For the Lord your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He knows you’re going through this great wilderness. These forty years the Lord your God has been with you. You have lacked nothing.” (ESV) We also read about Jesus’ time in the wilderness for forty days in places like Matthew 4, Mark 1:12-13, and Luke 4. For Jesus, this period was not only symbolic of the Israelites’ time in the wilderness and that he is the Messiah, but it was also immediately followed by the beginning of his earthly ministry. Likewise, the Israelites were finally allowed to enter the promised land after wandering in the wilderness for 40 years. The world may consider it coincidental that it is exactly 40 days until we begin our new season at our church. However, for those of us who follow Jesus Christ, 40 days is anything but coincidence. Rather, we see the fingerprints of providence and feel the presence of wind, whose source we do not fully comprehend. Each day you will have the privilege of connecting with God through prayer. In the pages that follow, you will see one Bible passage followed by a short message and a reflection to help you pray and apply the Word of God in a personal way.
GUIDE IN A GLANCE Preparation is always done best by seeking God first. Accordingly, the 40 days have been broken up into four separate ten day segments with different emphases on seeking God. We hope you will join us during this season of prayerful preparation.
AUGUST 1 - 10 // SEEKING THE PRESENCE OF GOD August 1 August 2 August 3 August 4 August 5 August 6 August 7 August 8 August 9 August 10
His immanence His transcendence His faithfulness His faithfulness His encouragement His favor His love His love His holiness Shalom
AUGUST 11 - 20 // SEEKING THE KINGDOM OF GOD August 11 August 12 August 13 August 14 August 15 August 16 August 17 August 18 August 19 August 20
His authority His authority His victory His victory Kingdom ethics Kingdom ethics Kingdom ethics Our new identity Our new identity Our new identity
AUGUST 27 - 30 // SEEKING THE HEART OF GOD August 21 August 22 August 23 August 24 August 25 August 26 August 27 August 28 August 29 August 30
His will His will His desire His desire His desire His redemptive plan His redemptive plan His forgiveness His forgiveness Your transformation
AUGUST 31 - SEPTEMBER 9 // SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD August 31 September 1 September 2 September 3 September 4 September 5 September 6 September 7 September 8 September 9
His guidance His guidance Your obedience His encouragement His encouragement His wisdom His strength His glory His glory Our Joy
01 AUGUST
HIS IMMANENCE THE PRESENCE OF GOD Say therefore to the people of Israel, I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from slavery to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great acts of judgment. I will take you to be my people, and I will be your God, and you shall know that I am the Lord your God, who has brought you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians. // EXODUS 6:6-7 (ESV)
MESSAGE
The immanence of God means that God is present and active within creation and all of humanity. This means that God is not far from us, and, as you read this passage, you will notice that God repeatedly says the phrase, “I will.� God himself acts to deliver and rescue. God himself intercedes and through Jesus, He has been physically present with the sick, downtrodden, hurt, and hungry.
REFLECTION
As you think about your own story, how has God been present with you and shown himself to be faithful and loving? In what ways do you long to see God show up in your life right now to deliver you? Lift your praises and requests up to God, knowing he hears you and that you are free from condemnation in Jesus Christ.
02 AUGUST
HIS TRANSCENDENCE THE PRESENCE OF GOD For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. // ISAIAH 55:8-9 (ESV)
MESSAGE
The transcendence of God implies that God is not merely a human invention, neither is God a perfect or pure human being. Rather, God is the great “I AM” and the One whose existence is not dependent on anything. Significantly, this passage is the pinnacle of the preceding 14 chapters (Isaiah 40-54) that narrates God’s plan to restore Israel from Babylon. Since God is transcendent, he can be trusted to deliver his people regardless of how difficult their situation may be. Salvation is, therefore, entirely dependent on God’s ability to intercede and act within creation. It is not dependent on our complete understanding of what God has accomplished, but rather on our trust in him.
REFLECTION
Complementing God’s immanence, God’s transcendence invites us to trust him regardless of how difficult our lives may be in the moment. Over the last year and a half, Mission Hills has faced joys and struggles. Even though we are anticipating a great season of joy coming, we know that paths to restoration are never without struggles. Pray that we may lean on God and trust Him all the more as we enter our new season.
03 AUGUST
HIS FAITHFULNESS THE PRESENCE OF GOD God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it? // NUMBERS 23:19(ESV)
MESSAGE
Numbers 23 is at the end of the Exodus generation in the wilderness. The Israelites were on the plains of Moab, which was threatening to Balak the ruler of Moab. Balak recruited Balaam to gather officials from Moab to lay a curse upon the Israelites. Balaam mounted his donkey and while on his way, he encountered an angel of the Lord and the donkey began talking to Balaam. Balaam returned with seven messages from the Lord, which led to the Israelites being blessed rather than cursed. This passage is contained in his second of seven messages. As opposed to what Balak worshiped and believed, the Lord is the only true God. Consequently, God will never fail us, as opposed to idols and other false gods that do nothing but fail us since they require our skill, effort, and resources to maintain them.
REFLECTION
God has been faithful to us indeed. Not only has he carried us through the wilderness, but he continues to bless and deliver on his promises. When the world around us seeks to curse the people of God, may we pray for them that they, too, may see God’s faithfulness and be transformed themselves. May people around the world have their eyes opened to the Lord, to see that he is true. May we trust in God’s faithfulness to continue to transform lives.
04 AUGUST
HIS FAITHFULNESS THE PRESENCE OF GOD And he brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven, and number the stars, if you are able to number them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” And he believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness. // GENESIS 15: 5-6 (ESV)
MESSAGE
At first, this passage may sound more like a promise. In hindsight of what Jesus Christ accomplished for us, we can see that this promise has been fulfilled as believers are grafted into the people of God and now are counted as Abraham’s offspring too. God proves faithful as he fulfills his promise to Abraham. So often, we question God’s faithfulness because we lack the ability to know and see the future. As time continues to pass, we begin to question God’s faithfulness to us. Yet, Abraham believed the Lord, even though he was unable to see the future. With hindsight, we have the blessing of being able to know that God is faithful. May we in turn be faithful to God.
REFLECTION
Individually and corporately, let us have Abraham-like faith. Think of the promises that God has made to you and write them down. Which of those promises has he already fulfilled? Which ones are you still waiting for? Praise God for his faithfulness. Then, in the same attitude of praise, seek the presence of God, inviting the Holy Spirit to invade your privacy and brokenness. Then, lift up your heart to him, reflecting on the promises you are still waiting on.
05 AUGUST
HIS ENCOURAGEMENT THE PRESENCE OF GOD Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” So the Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be quiet, for this day is holy; do not be grieved.” And all the people went their way to eat and drink and to send portions and to make great rejoicing, because they had understood the words that were declared to them. // NEHEMIAH 8:10-12 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Nehemiah 8 recounts Ezra reading the Law to the people, which is then followed by weeping and mourning by the people, “For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law” (Nehemiah 8:9b). Nehemiah was anguished by the injustices taking place in Jerusalem, and, after the people heard the Law, they began to mourn. Certainly, weeping and repentance were appropriate reactions in light of the injustices they were doing. However, we read in verse 10 that they were told not to weep but to celebrate! Moreover, they were taught that “the joy of the Lord is your strength.” The surprising command to celebrate feels unexpected, but it is actually consistent with God’s desire for us. Weeping and repentance are an indicator of true engagement with the Word of God. Truly engaging with the Word of God at that level reflects a heart longing to honor, love, and serve God. Accordingly, celebration and reflecting on, “THE JOY OF THE LORD IS YOUR STRENGTH” are appropriate and natural responses to encountering God.
REFLECTION
While some of us may be feeling the mar of our mistakes and experiencing struggle, tears of repentance are a reminder of God’s goodness because God ordained repentance as a means to seek him. Encouragement is not separate from struggle, but rather, it is sought because of it. True strength comes from the Lord and having joy in him. Starting with an attitude of repentance, reflect on the purpose and nature of repentance, allowing your sorrow to turn to joy because of grace. Finally, praise God that he is your encouragement and the lifter of your soul.
06 AUGUST
HIS FAVOR THE PRESENCE OF GOD What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? // ROMANS 8:31 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Paul knows God’s favor is upon “those who love him” (Romans 8:28) and makes the bold claim, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31b). At first, this may sound like we will never suffer in this world, but in verse 34, he elaborates: “Who then is the one who condemns? No one.” Paul is describing what will happen when Jesus returns to judge the world, not that we should expect to be delivered from world. He knows that Satan has no claim against the people of God and that believers have inherited eternal life. This is not to say that God doesn’t bless us in this present age, because he does in many ways, but the bigger picture of God’s favor is eternal life.
REFLECTION
How does God’s favor help you wrestle with the difficulties of this world? How does the reality of eternal life influence how you see struggles?
07 AUGUST
HIS LOVE THE PRESENCE OF GOD This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. // 1 JOHN 4:10 (ESV)
MESSAGE
In the Old Testament, Israel made atonement for sin through the offering and sacrifice of animals (Leviticus 16). Atonement means to repay to God what was damaged as a result of sin. However, animal sacrifice could never fully render back to God what was due to him; only a perfect and holy sacrifice could truly atone for sin completely. Thus, only God himself could be the perfect sacrifice to atone for sin completely-once and for all. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the second person of the Trinity and fully God and fully man, was the “atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2). God displayed for all creation the deep and true meaning of love: to give up his son for us so that we may live with him eternally. Love is not that we loved and sought after God first, for the Psalmist and the Apostle Paul both agree that no one is righteous and no one seeks after God (Psalm 14:1, Romans 3:10-11). God created us even though he knew it would cost him so much. That is love: to love people so much that you would choose to be with them knowing it would cost you your life.
REFLECTION
How does knowing how much God loves you change how you seek God? How does it influence how you love others? Take time to reflect on God’s deep and unending love for you. What emotions and reactions arise? Allow yourself to be vulnerable before God; He knows what you are keeping hidden. Express yourself to God and seek him, allowing the Holy Spirit to create an unquenchable desire for him within you.
08 AUGUST
HIS LOVE THE PRESENCE OF GOD The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. // ZEPHANIAH 3:17 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Zephaniah is acutely focused on sin and the future restoration of not only Israel but the entire world (Zephaniah 3:9-10). In chapters 1, 2, and the first half of 3, Zephaniah focuses on God’s judgment on the world, including Judah and Jerusalem. At the end of chapter 3, he focuses on the restoration of Israel’s remnant, which ultimately points toward the Messiah. While God declares his wrath against sin, he doesn’t leave his people or his creation without hope. He preserves a remnant from where Jesus Christ came. Zephaniah opened with judgment, but he reassures the people that God still loves them and desires their restoration. This teaches us about the severity of sin while also revealing the abundance of God’s love. Regardless of how deep our sin is, God’s love is still more abundant and is able to cover all sins. Zephaniah 3:17 invites us to reflect on God’s love in light of our past sins, causing us to become humble in nature and quieted by his love. His presence with us indicates that he has not forsaken us, regardless of how grave our sins are. Moreover, he intercedes and saves us from the penalty due us because of our sin.
REFLECTION
The events and stories of your life don’t occur in a vacuum. Reflect on how much God loves you in light of your past and what He has delivered you from. As you begin to fully appreciate the love God has for you in light of your story, reflect on your need for humility and to be quieted by the love of God. What does it mean to you to be “quieted by the love of God?”
09 AUGUST
HIS HOLINESS THE PRESENCE OF GOD Who is like you, O LORD, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders? // EXODUS 15:11 (ESV)
MESSAGE
To know God is to know that he is holy. For God to be holy means that he is unique and separate from all of creation. Oftentimes, we use the term holy as an adjective to describe a person’s moral character. While this may be an appropriate application of the term, holiness truly means to be separate and unique. After the fall in Genesis 3, God chose a specific people group to carry out his plan to bless and redeem creation. Accordingly, they could not be like the rest of the world since the world was in need of redemption. In Exodus 19:6 God says, And you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. And again in 1 Peter 2:9 He states, But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. God calls us to be holy and to glorify the name of Jesus Christ. You are a priest in the royal priesthood of God. Our holiness and status as a royal priesthood is not accomplished by things that we do, but rather it is a declaration by God because of the righteousness imputed to us through Jesus Christ. Consequently, the Holy Spirit is conforming us into who we are already declared to be as we seek God. To know God is to know that he is holy, righteous, pure, just, and worthy of worship.
REFLECTION
How does understanding the nature of holiness influence how you see God? How does 1 Peter 2:9 affect how you see yourself and others around you? As you come to worship God and witness others worshiping this weekend, allow yourself to take a moment to appreciate the corporate nature of worship and how holiness is on display.
10 AUGUST
SHALOM THE PRESENCE OF GOD By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made. // GENESIS 2:2-3 (ESV)
MESSAGE
The nature of rest seems odd to apply to God since he never tires. But resting doesn’t only mean re-energizing and sleep. It also means to be in the state of Shalom. “Shalom” is the Hebrew term for “peace, harmony, well-being.” This word is also used in greeting others and asking, “How are you?” so that what is truly being asked is, “Do you have peace?” The seventh day of creation was sanctified by God and is what is commonly referred to as the Sabbath. Understanding the Sabbath is crucial to understanding the nature of Shalom. The seventh day of creation was designed to be a reminder to us about God’s eternal plan and desire to dwell with his people and cover us with Shalom. As such, we look forward to our eternal Sabbath where we will dwell in the presence of the living God eternally. In Mark 2:27 Jesus said, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” The Sabbath exists to help us dwell in the presence of God and experience Shalom, God’s deep desire to bless us, dwell with us, make everything right. This is what we see when we read Revelation 21:3,with God dwelling with his people so that “he is our God and we are his people.”
REFLECTION
Seeking the presence of God needs to be central to your life. Seeking God is not a thing that you do on Sunday, for God desires to dwell with you eternally, not just one day a week. Reflect on the importance of seeking the presence of God in your everyday life and how that can look practically. Perhaps during your lunch break today, take a five-minute walk to seek God, reflect on his holiness, and his desire to be with you. Begin this new habit today because five minutes a day can change your life and influence the world.
SECTION NOTES
KINGDOM OF GOD
11 AUGUST
HIS AUTHORITY THE KINGDOM OF GOD The LORD has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all. // PSALM 103:19 (ESV)
MESSAGE
The Apostle Paul taught that the Kingdom of God is a present reality (Romans 14:17). At the same time, Jesus taught that the Kingdom is also a future reality (Matthew 25:34). While Jesus Christ ushered in the Kingdom of God with his appearance, we recognize that the world is still in need of redemption. Accordingly, the Kingdom of God is also awaiting a future fulfillment, which will occur at the return of Jesus Christ. While in the midst of the present and future reality of the Kingdom of God, we need to recognize that God is still in control in our time regardless of how desperate things may appear. The present reality of the Kingdom of God tells us that he is in control of our circumstances. The future reality of the Kingdom of God tells us that things right now may not be even close to perfect, but we can wait in hope for the day that Christ returns. In the meantime, we know God is sovereign and has full authority over all things.
REFLECTION
How does understanding that the Kingdom of God has a present and future reality help you understand the current state of the world and how followers of Jesus Christ can suffer from many afflictions, yet remain faithful to him?
12 AUGUST
HIS AUTHORITY THE KINGDOM OF GOD Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it. // MARK 10:15 (ESV)
MESSAGE
The Kingdom of God is evidence of God’s authority. To receive the Kingdom of God like a child means to submit in trust and faith to God’s sovereignty and reign. Oftentimes, this verse is interpreted to mean “child-like faith,” where child-like faith is understood as accepting God without really using our minds to the point of “blind-faith.” However, faith is not blind! On the contrary, faith in God is trusting in something you know is certain, yet are awaiting its fulfillment. The author of Hebrews states, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Faith is the certainty of knowing what you believe, whereas blind-faith denotes believing in something you are not really sure of. Therefore, to receive the Kingdom of God like a child relates more to submitting in trust to God.
REFLECTION
How does this influence your understanding of receiving the Kingdom of God like a child? In what ways do you see God’s authority present at Mission Hills? In what areas of your life do you need to accept God’s authority?
13 AUGUST
HIS VICTORY THE KINGDOM OF GOD But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. Or how can someone enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man? Then indeed he may plunder his house.// MATTHEW 12:28-29 (ESV)
MESSAGE
The people accused Jesus of performing miracles and casting out demons by the power of demons. His retort was that, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand” (v. 25). Jesus cast out demons because the Kingdom of God had arrived. Moreover, the casting out of demons indicated that God is victorious over the enemy and is now transforming people who were slaves to sin and under the control of the devil. Jesus is the victor and defeated death through his obedience and sacrifice.
REFLECTION
God is at work today and constantly transforming lives around the world. Through missions we can witness the power of God and the victory of Jesus Christ taking place. Take this time to pray for our missionaries, that Christ would work through them to transform lives and proclaim victory for the glory of God.
14 AUGUST
HIS VICTORY THE KINGDOM OF GOD After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.” A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. // JOHN 19:28-30 (ESV)
MESSAGE
At the cross, Jesus knew he had accomplished everything the Father wanted to accomplish through him - from the incarnation to his death. Jesus quoted Psalm 22 and said, “I thirst.” Psalm 22 referred to the righteous sufferer’s thirst (specifically v. 15) and by quoting it, Jesus recognized that he had accomplished everything that Israel was intended to do and reconciled humanity to God. By believing in Jesus Christ and trusting in him, we inherit that reconciliation.
REFLECTION
God is victorious over death and sin because of what Jesus Christ accomplished through his birth, life, death and resurrection. Trusting in him is transformational because faith bestows the accomplishment of Christ to the believer. Reflect on your own journey with Christ and pray for Mission Hills as we enter a new season, that we may increasingly revere Jesus Christ and see him as our foundation.
15 AUGUST
KINGDOM ETHICS THE KINGDOM OF GOD I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. // ROMANS 12:1-2 (ESV)
MESSAGE
In the Old Testament, sacrifices were offered up to God as atonement for sin. In the New Testament, Paul talked about our lives becoming a living sacrifice that is pleasing to God. We no longer need to sacrifice and kill animals to atone for sin because Christ has accomplished that once and for all. Therefore, your life, having been purchased through the blood of Christ, is to be a living sacrifice. This means that your life is not about you but rather is for God. At the end of the day, this is for your benefit because there is no greater joy than experiencing the presence of God. Belonging to God requires a new way of thinking, a new identity, and a new mode of operating. Your former self has been put to death and you share in Christ’s resurrection, receiving a new life. Be transformed,made wholly new; and then you will know the heart of God.
REFLECTION
How does sharing in the resurrection of Christ and receiving a new life influence how you see yourself? What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus Christ? In what ways has your former self been put to death?
16 AUGUST
KINGDOM ETHICS THE KINGDOM OF GOD A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. // JOHN 13:34-35 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Jesus gives a new commandment to love others as he has loved us. Leviticus 19 and Matthew 22:37-40 talk about the old commandment to love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus elevates the manner in which we ought to treat others by calling on us to love them as he has loved us. Within the Kingdom of God, the ethics of God are the norm. Serving others with sacrificial love is what we are called to do. This means we must place others before ourselves. To love your neighbor as yourself assumes you love yourself first but the new commandment is to love your neighbor first.
REFLECTION
In what ways can you sacrificially love others, even your enemies? A practical step toward sacrificial love is practicing forgiveness. How does God’s mercy toward you influence how you show mercy to others? What ways can you challenge yourself to strive toward reconciliation, even if the other person is at fault and refuses to cooperate with you?
17 AUGUST
KINGDOM ETHICS THE KINGDOM OF GOD Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. In your anger do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil. Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. // EPHESIANS 4:25-32 (ESV)
MESSAGE
This passage, while containing very specific guidelines on the Christian life, is not meant to be exhaustive or legalistic. Paul is describing life as it ought to be under the sovereignty of God and his ethics. A whole and complete life that experiences the presence of God and Shalom (God’s peace and abundance) will naturally exhibit qualities that conform to his character and that condition. A life that experiences God daily will overflow with the goodness of God. Love will reign; being responsible will be natural; always speaking truth will be your conviction and speaking encouraging words will be your desire. Forgiveness will naturally flow from your demeanor toward others since Christ is seated deeply in your heart.
REFLECTION
At your discretion, call to mind painful memories and hurts that others have inflicted. In your vulnerability, invite God to heal those wounds asking him for his mercy to forgive and reconcile. Abide in Christ and rely on his ability to heal and forgive and not your own ability. His love in your heart will be the key to experiencing and expressing love.
18 AUGUST
OUR NEW IDENTITY THE KINGDOM OF GOD For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. // ROMANS 8:14-17(ESV)
MESSAGE
The Holy Spirit provides the affirmation of our new identity and life in Christ and testifies to us that we are children of God. Jesus Christ freed us, and, therefore, we have nothing to fear. Now we can cry out to our heavenly Father, “Abba,” which is an intimate and endearing word for “father.” The Spirit bears witness to us that we are children of God. Experiencing the presence of God is a fundamental element to our Christian faith and gives us the assurance of our new identity as children of God. Paul goes on to state that if we are children, then we are also heirs with Christ. This also includes suffering with him in order to be glorified with him. Suffering in this passage refers to the suffering that accompanies living a godly lifestyle in a broken world. Perhaps this looks like abstaining from certain behaviors or denying yourself in order to love another.
REFLECTION
Living a godly lifestyle doesn’t mean you will be perfect on this side of eternity. Rather it means you will progressively become more holy and similar to Jesus Christ. In our striving toward living a godly lifestyle, what potential difficulties might arise? In what ways have you experienced suffering as a result of following Jesus Christ? In what ways have you experienced the Holy Spirit and have been assured that you are a child of God?
19 AUGUST
OUR NEW IDENTITY THE KINGDOM OF GOD For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin. Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. // ROMANS 6:5-11 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Having faith in Jesus Christ unites us with his death and resurrection so that we share what Christ has accomplished. In our unity with Christ, we discover our new moral condition: dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. Our unity with Christ is incredibly significant. A new life is available to us, and we are delivered from eternal condemnation. We are no longer bound to sin but free, and in our freedom, we begin to understand the true intention of our humanity.
REFLECTION
In what ways do you appreciate the life you have in Christ? How important is unity with Christ to your life? In what ways can you help others discover the importance of being united in Christ?
20 AUGUST
OUR NEW IDENTITY THE KINGDOM OF GOD In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. // ROMANS 8:37-39 (ESV)
MESSAGE
In our trials and sufferings in this world, it is crucial to realize that we are more than conquerors. Paul is certain of God’s faithfulness and ability to carry his people to the end regardless of the trials of life. Nothing shall separate us from God. In this truth, we realize that we are not only destined to find relief from suffering, but for more than that; we are destined to experience Shalom. Shalom is the overflow of God’s presence onto our lives that creates peace, harmony, and overwhelming well-being. The fullness of God’s Kingdom means that Shalom is established, and when we witness that moment, we will realize that we are truly more than conquerors. We thrive in God.
REFLECTION
What does it mean to be more than conquerors? In the trials of your life, what would it look like to be more than a conqueror, to be more than just delivered from suffering? In what ways can you trust in God’s faithfulness and goodness? Reflect on the reality that nothing can separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus.
SECTION NOTES
SEEKING THE HEART OF GOD
21 AUGUST
HIS WILL SEEKING THE HEART OF GOD When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command the locust to devour the land, or send pestilence among my people, if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. // 2 CHRONICLES 7:13-14 (ESV)
MESSAGE
God’s desire and will is for his people to humble themselves before him, to pray and seek his face. Repentance is necessary in seeking God. While this passage applied specifically to ancient Israel, who were seeking restoration, it nevertheless can apply as an approach to seeking the heart of God. For those of us in Jesus Christ, we know that healing and forgiveness are abundantly available in him. To seek the heart of God and his will is to hear the words of Jesus Christ and abide by them.
REFLECTION
Humility, prayer, and repentance are essential to seeking God. He desires you to turn to him. Remembering your sins is not necessarily a legalistic practice because it can help you appreciate the love God has for you. Take this time to seek the heart of God, repent, and pray with an attitude of humility.
22 AUGUST
HIS WILL SEEKING THE HEART OF GOD And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” // MATTHEW 28:18-20 (ESV)
MESSAGE
The Great Commission reveals the will of God for us. God’s will and desire is for us to make disciples. We have the privilege of being chosen by God to do His will. He calls us a royal priesthood and a holy nation. Priests in the Old Testament were mediators between God and the people, to tell the people what God revealed (Malachi 2:7). Now, we are a royal priesthood commissioned to teach others to heed the commands of Jesus Christ. This may seem like a burden and a difficult task, but as you seek the heart of God and discover His yearning for people to be with Him, this task becomes an incredible opportunity. Certainly, God has a mission to redeem creation. Not only does God send, but He is the One who goes. We see this repeatedly throughout the Old Testament, as God restores Israel, commands the nations, creates creation, and is acutely recognizable in Jesus Christ. As priests who have encountered Jesus Christ, we have the privilege of walking with God in our priesthood. He is with us eternally.
REFLECTION
How does your role as a priest of God influence your understanding of the Great Commission? In what ways can you practically carry out your role?
23 AUGUST
HIS DESIRE SEEKING THE HEART OF GOD I will make my dwelling among you, and my soul shall not abhor you. And I will walk among you and will be your God, and you shall be my people. // LEVITICUS 26:11-12 (ESV)
MESSAGE
God creates covenants so that it is possible for Him to dwell with his people. This is the desire of God, whereas the will of God is, to some extent, the means to accomplish the desire. Making disciples, repentance, seeking the face of God and prayer are means by which God establishes his dwelling with his people. Literally speaking, God desires to “tabernacle” within us. In ancient Israel, God made his dwelling in temples and tabernacles. Once Jesus came to earth, God no longer dwelt in houses and temples but rather with and amongst mankind. After the ascension of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit came and filled believers, which means that God literally dwells within mankind. We see this as God’s desire in Ezekiel 36:27 and Isaiah 44 where God declares that he will put his Spirit within us. We also see this as God’s desire through scripture in Leviticus, prophesied and decreed in Jeremiah 11:4 and Ezekiel 37:27, unveiled in both Jesus Christ and in Acts 2, and fully realized in Revelation 21:3. God desires to dwell with us as our God and for us to live as his people.
REFLECTION
How does knowing that God desires to dwell with you impact the way you see yourself and how you understand where your self-worth comes from?
24 AUGUST
HIS DESIRE SEEKING THE HEART OF GOD And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules. // EZEKIEL 36:27 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Ezekiel 36:27 and Isaiah 44 declare God’s desire to fill us with His Spirit, which gives us the ability to obey God. Moreover, God’s Spirit within us is also the mark of being sealed in God according to Ephesians 1:13, which means that we can be sure that we will inherit eternal life. Receiving the Holy Spirit was fully realized in Acts 2 at Pentecost when believers received the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit continues to fill believers today.
REFLECTION
In what ways have you felt the Holy Spirit dwelling within you?
25 AUGUST
HIS DESIRE SEEKING THE HEART OF GOD And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. // GENESIS 12:2 (ESV)
MESSAGE
In our English Bibles, the phrase “I will make” sounds like God is making a promise. However, in Hebrew, this phrase describes an intense desire rather than a promise. Referring to Abraham, God desired deeply to make him a great nation so that this nation would be a blessing to the world. Jesus Christ fulfilled the role Israel was supposed to play, and, accordingly, through Jesus Christ, the world is blessed. God’s desire is to bless you deeply so that you may bless others. God’s blessings are not intended to be stored up and held selfishly but are meant to be shared so that others may experience the blessings of God.
REFLECTION
How does understanding the desire behind blessings impact your understanding of missions? In what ways does God want to bless others through you?
26 AUGUST
HIS REDEMPTIVE PLAN SEEKING THE HEART OF GOD The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram, and Ram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, 6and Jesse the father of David the king. So all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ fourteen generations. // MATTHEW 1:1-6, 17 (ESV)
MESSAGE
While many of us may be tempted to skip over genealogy narratives, reflecting on Jesus’ lineage directs us to the intimate connection from Genesis to Jesus. Israel knew that their Savior would come out of the lineage of David and be counted as the seed of Abraham. Therefore, Jesus lineage introduces the Gospels and directs the reader to God’s grand plan to redeem his people. Redemption is the theme that begins the New Testament and redemption is what is observed at the end of the New Testament. Redemption is one of the key concepts that helps us understand the New Testament and even the Bible as a whole.
REFLECTION
How important is the theme of redemption to the way we understand the Bible? What is the significance of the lineage of Jesus?
27 AUGUST
HIS REDEMPTIVE PLAN SEEKING THE HEART OF GOD He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. // 1 JOHN 2:2 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Propitiation simply means to appease the wrath of God toward sinners. Jesus Christ paid the penalty for our sins, but as the Apostle John said, “not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.” Jesus’ life, work, death, and resurrection is for all people in the whole world provided they place their faith in him. John later states, “Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life” (1 John 5:12).
REFLECTION
Knowing that God is not angry or disappointed with you, but rather, sees in you the righteousness of Jesus Christ, how does that influence how you see your relationship to God? Since we know that faith in Jesus is the only way to be saved and inherit eternal life, how does that affect your view of local and global missions?
28 AUGUST
HIS FORGIVENESS SEEKING THE HEART OF GOD The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst they said to him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?” This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” And once more he bent down and wrote on the ground. But when they heard it, they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. Jesus stood up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” // JOHN 8:3-11 (ESV)
MESSAGE
The scribes and Pharisees were testing to see what Jesus would do and if he would uphold the law of Moses. In his wisdom, Jesus was able to quiet the scribes and Pharisees by pointing out their own guilt. At the end of the passage, Jesus not only saves the woman’s life but forgives her and commands her to sin no more. Under the law, she was worthy of stoning, just as we are all worthy of punishment as a result of our sins. However, Jesus offers forgiveness and a second chance to sin no more. When the world seeks to condemn us, we have hope in Jesus Christ who offers no condemnation.
REFLECTION
Often, you may find it difficult to accept grace because of the guilt you feel. Sometimes you may find it easier to hang on to guilt than to accept forgiveness because, in pride, you may say, “At least I’m in control of my guilt but with grace and forgiveness, I am no longer in control and bound to the one who forgives me.” The desire for autonomy can prevent progress in your relationship with God. In what ways can you seek dependence upon God and allow yourself to accept more of God’s grace?
29 AUGUST
HIS GUIDANCE SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. // HEBREWS 2:14-18 (ESV)
MESSAGE
God is entirely a spiritual being, yet the Son of God, who is the second person of the Trinity, became flesh and blood in the person of Jesus Christ. This means that God altered his purely spiritual nature by becoming man in order to provide forgiveness and eternal life to us. Imagine the depth of sacrifice that God made in order to save us! Jesus Himself stated, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). God calls us friend and his children, and he withheld nothing to redeem us.
REFLECTION
God’s forgiveness is so deep that no sin could ever negate God’s offer of grace. How does this impact your relationship with God and your understanding of forgiveness?
30 AUGUST
HIS FORGIVENESS SEEKING THE HEART OF GOD And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. // 2 CORINTHIANS 3:18 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Paul states that the veil that once covered the hearts and faces of the people, which prevented them from seeing the glory of the Lord, has been removed. Now, we who have had our eyes and hearts opened to God are being progressively sanctified. Those who abide in Christ see their holiness increase as they continue to walk with God. This does not mean we will be perfect, but are increasingly becoming holy.
REFLECTION
Reflecting on the reality that your eyes have been unveiled, how does this help you appreciate your ability to seek God directly?
SECTION NOTES
SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD
31 AUGUST
HIS FORGIVENESS SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. // JOHN 16:13-14 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Receiving guidance from God happens through the work of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit comes under the authority of the Father. This does not mean that the Holy Spirit is not God, but just as Jesus submitted to the will and authority of the Father, the Holy Spirit comes and does the same. The will of the Father is to glorify Jesus Christ and teach us truth. This is one of the roles of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
REFLECTION
Realizing that guidance comes through the Holy Spirit, we should not shy away from seeking the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives through prayer. We also need to realize the importance of recognizing that the Holy Spirit is God and therefore is worthy of worship and the attention of our prayers. Just as you pray to the Father and to Jesus Christ, you also should pray to the Holy Spirit and seek his guidance in your life. What difference do you think it would make in your life if you sought the Holy Spirit more intentionally?
01
SEPTEMBER
HIS GUIDANCE SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him. // JOHN 12:26 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Many people are perplexed about what hearing from God sounds like or feels like. Often, we can get too distracted about discerning the voice and call of God, believing that hearing from God is like hearing a loud audible voice or being struck by a hammer to get our attention. Jesus gave us the command to love others as he has loved us. Are we waiting to hear from God again that we should love others? We tend to be more concerned about position and title believing, “If God calls me to serve him, then he will tell me the exact title of my new job.” Your title is a royal priesthood and we are a holy nation. Your mission is to make disciples and to love one another. Your purpose is to grow deeper in love with God. Certainly God can direct us to different careers and places, but praying and seeking our own interests first makes hearing from God far more difficult. In order to see where God is leading you, you have to see God first. Then you will discover where he has led you after you have seen Him. In our contemporary culture, we are flooded by messages that tell us that we need to be selfish and pursue our own dreams to the fullest. We live in a world that fears “missing out” or being “left out,” causing us to fight each other to be first in line or pick the best apple at the grocery store, all the while throwing away those that are not “just perfect.”
REFLECTION
In what ways can you challenge yourself to be a servant and follower of Jesus Christ before you seek anything else? In the face of our culture that teaches us otherwise, we need strength and wisdom from God. Pray for wisdom and strength to follow Christ and carry your cross daily.
02
SEPTEMBER
YOUR OBEDIENCE SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD But he replied to the man who told him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” // MATTHEW 12:48-50(ESV)
MESSAGE
Jesus was told that his biological family wanted to speak with him outside. Rather than stopping his teaching, Jesus used this as an opportunity to emphasize the importance of obedience. Being a follower of Jesus Christ means you are a part of his spiritual family. Some cry that obedience sounds legalistic or is too difficult. However, we are all slaves to something and obedient to some master. Perhaps it is our sinful nature that we are slaves to, or perhaps it is the desires and cares of this world that we are enslaved to. Either way, obedience is still practiced. The real issue is what we choose – our own desires or God’s. However, Romans 6:17-18 states, But thanks be to God, that you who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching to which you were committed, and, having been set free from sin, have become slaves of righteousness. In our freedom from sin, we have become slaves to righteousness. Therefore, obedience is shifting our allegiance from sin and turning to the one who has redeemed us.
REFLECTION
The challenge is to see obedience to God as an act of freedom and not as legalism. We need to challenge our culture that tends to value independence over obedience to God. Independence itself is not wrong if it is means being separated from something evil: to be independent from oppression, for example, is good. However, to be independent from God is to be oppressed by sin. Pray that our congregation and our culture would become more dependent on God. Pray that God will give you the strength to rely more on him.
03
SEPTEMBER
HIS ENCOURAGEMENT SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.� For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. // ROMANS 15:2-7 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Paul is exhorting us to love our neighbors, which is the will of God as already covered a few days ago. More than that, living in harmony with one another is crucial because it allows us to glorify God in unison. Obedience to the will of God can be difficult in this world, but God is the author of endurance and encouragement. He will grant you the ability to love others and to live in harmony. One week from today we will be rejoicing together as we enter into the next season of Mission Hills Church. Let us live in harmony and be a community that honors God.
REFLECTION
Pray that our church will live in harmony and with humility towards one another. May peace abound and become the rhythm of our church.
04
SEPTEMBER
YOUR ENCOURAGEMENT SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. // PSALM 46:1-3 (ESV)
MESSAGE
In times of trouble and fear, we have the joy of turning to God who does not forsake us. He alone is our help and our deliverer. Toward the end of this Psalm, the psalmist declares that God brings desolations on the earth. He also makes wars cease, which is for His glory. This shows his sovereignty, which gives us comfort and peace. He desolates the earth because of its unrighteousness and restores people to righteousness. Trust in the Lord and his ways because it will lead to your joy.
REFLECTION
How have you sought the Lord when you faced struggles? What would it look like for God to appear in your life?
05
SEPTEMBER
HIS ENCOURAGEMENT SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD Then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice and watching over the way of his saints. // PROVERBS 2:5-8 (ESV)
MESSAGE
What is unique about this Proverb is that the Lord giving wisdom and guarding the paths of justice (verse 6-8) are the reasons for “fear of the Lord” in verse 5. Having fear of the Lord is fundamental to our Christian faith, and it is intimately linked to receiving wisdom from God, knowing what is just, and seeing God guard the paths of justice. We may not always understand why suffering occurs, but with fear of the Lord, we can be assured that justice will prevail.
REFLECTION
How is receiving God’s wisdom related to having fear of the Lord? What does it mean to fear the Lord? Is it awe and respect alone or are there also times where fear can mean being frightened?
06
SEPTEMBER
HIS STRENGTH SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him. The Lord is the strength of his people; he is the saving refuge of his anointed // PSALM 28:7-8 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Psalms can have the tendency to go through an array of different emotions within the same psalm, and this one is no different. King David started this psalm by crying out for God’s mercy, then he pleas for justice and ends with the declaration of God’s deliverance. David began with desperation and ended with the strength of the Lord. He testifies that the Lord is faithful and that God hears prayers. David therefore proclaims that God is his strength and the strength of his people.
REFLECTION
How has God carried you and been your strength? How has he delivered you or in what ways are you seeking God’s deliverance? Perhaps you need this time to cry out to God for his mercy to reign upon you. Trust in him for he will not turn a deaf ear to you.
07
SEPTEMBER
HIS GLORY SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. // REVELATION 21:1-2 (ESV)
MESSAGE
God is victorious and glorified. The new Jerusalem represents the redeemed people of God: all those who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ. They have been prepared as a bride for their groom. The old things have passed away and there is no more sea, which represented a place where threats and enemies came from. The restoration of all of creation and the redemption of his people unto their glorified conditions glorifies God.
REFLECTION
Praise God that He is victorious. In this present world, how do you or can you wait in joyful hope for the Lord, knowing that He desires restoration of His people?
08
SEPTEMBER
HIS GLORY SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.” // REVELATION 21:3 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Referring back to Leviticus 26 on August 23rd, God dwelling with His people is the goal of the covenants He makes with them. Here we see the final fulfillment of God’s plan: dwelling with His people as their God and being recognized and worshiped as their God in a perfect, intimate and joyful relationship is God’s glory. When we worship God, it glorifies Him, for we declare that He is our God and we are His people. This is His heart, plan, desire, and purpose. The earth and all of creation created the environment for us to flourish so that more people could experience the presence and love of God. His glory is intensely connected to our ability to experience the fullness of joy and love. Worship Him and be filled. His desire is for you.
REFLECTION
Take this time to give thanks, seek His presence and understand His desire. Holiness is submitting to God in vulnerability and with praise.
09
SEPTEMBER
OUR JOY SEEKING THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. // REVELATION 21:4 (ESV)
MESSAGE
Our eternal joy is God’s presence with us, which, at Christ’s return, naturally leads to the absence of suffering. As believers, we are wholly complete and filled with his Spirit. At the resurrection, we will have new bodies to match our new, perfect, and glorified condition. What a joyful day this will be. Our joy is full and complete with God.
REFLECTION
Forty days have passed since we started our journey out of the wilderness, and now, we are reading about our joy being complete because of the presence of God. Let’s praise God together this weekend, and let’s invite him to be within us so that our praise may be all the more glorifying to Him.
SECTION NOTES
FINAL THOUGHT Our hope is that through these 40 days you have grown closer to God and experienced his presence. Preparation is always best done by seeking God first. He is the one who makes your paths straight, desires your heart to be glad, and your soul to be filled. May you brim with joy as we enter this next season. God brought the Israelites into the promised land after 40 years of wandering through the wilderness and Jesus began his earthly ministry after 40 days in the Judean wilderness. We have joined together for 40 days of prayer, and now is the time to enter our new season of joy at Mission Hills Church.
620 SouthPark Drive, Littleton, CO 80201 // 303.794.3564 // missionhills.org