Growing in Faith

Opening Scripture:

“Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies.” – Psalm 103:1-4 (NKJV)

 

Command Your Soul to Bless God

In Psalm 103, David commands his soul to bless the Lord and remember all His benefits. Despite our feelings of unworthiness, God forgives our sins, heals our diseases, and redeems our lives. His lovingkindness and tender mercies are ever-present. Reflecting on these blessings shifts our focus from our shortcomings to God’s boundless grace and love.

 

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” – Philippians 4:6 (NKJV)

 

Finding Peace in Prayer

 

The Importance of Prayer

Philippians 4:6 urges us to turn our worries into prayers. By bringing our concerns to God with a thankful heart, we replace anxiety with peace. Prayer is a vital practice that connects us with God’s strength and guidance, helping us navigate life’s challenges.

 

 “Cease listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.” – Proverbs 19:27 (NKJV)

 

Staying Grounded in God’s Word

Listening to God’s Instructions

Proverbs 19:27 warns against ignoring God’s instruction. Studying scripture and listening to His guidance keeps us on the path of knowledge and wisdom. By filling ourselves with the Word of God, we equip ourselves to preach salvation and live faithfully.

 

Fasting for Spiritual Growth

Gaining Power Over the Flesh

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that helps us gain control over our flesh and gain a new perspective. It strengthens our spirit and deepens our reliance on God. Through fasting, we draw closer to God and become more attuned to His will.

 

 

“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” – Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)

 

Maintaining Peace Through Scripture

Meditating on Positive Scripture

Philippians 4:8 encourages us to focus on positive and virtuous things. Meditating on scripture helps us maintain peace and trust in God during difficult times. By relying on His word rather than our feelings, we find stability and hope.

 

Identifying Areas for Improvement

 

Staying in the Word Daily

Each person can improve their spiritual walk by identifying one area to focus on. Staying in the Word of God daily is a foundational practice that enhances every aspect of life. Consistent scripture reading strengthens our faith and equips us for service.

 

“That Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith…to know this love that surpasses knowledge that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” – Ephesians 3:17, 19 (NKJV)

 

The Role of the Holy Spirit

Strengthened by the Holy Spirit

 

Ephesians 3:16-21 highlights the Holy Spirit’s role in strengthening believers. Through the Spirit, Christ dwells in our hearts, empowering us with faith and helping us grasp the depth of His love. This understanding enables us to preach salvation effectively and live out our faith boldly.

 

Encouraging Fellowship and Accountability

Sharing Testimonies and Growing Together

Fellowship and accountability are crucial for spiritual growth. Sharing testimonies with our spiritual family encourages and strengthens us. By holding each other accountable and supporting one another, we remain faithful to God and grow together in our faith journey.

 

In conclusion, let us remember God’s forgiveness, engage in prayer and fasting, meditate on His Word, and rely on the Holy Spirit. Through fellowship and daily commitment to God’s teachings, we can strengthen our faith and live out our calling with purpose and joy.

Closing Scripture:

 “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” – Luke 11:13 (NKJV)

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Walking in Newness

Opening Scripture:

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV)

In the journey of faith, understanding our salvation and identity in Christ is crucial. It’s not just about knowing we are saved but grasping the depth of what it means to be a new creation in Him. This understanding is foundational for walking in spiritual authority and freedom.

Tonight’s Message:

Salvation isn’t just a ticket to heaven; it’s the beginning of a transformative relationship with Jesus Christ. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are not just forgiven of our sins; we are born into a new life. This new life is about recognizing our identity as children of God and heirs with Christ.

Understanding our identity in Christ enables us to walk in the authority He has given us. This authority is not for dominating others but for overcoming the enemy and the struggles we face, including generational sins and bondages. It’s about living in the victory Jesus secured for us on the cross.

Compassion in Action

Jesus exemplified compassion for all, regardless of their past or present struggles. He reached out to those society had cast aside, showing that God’s redemptive plan includes everyone. Our ministry should mirror this compassion, helping others understand God’s love and plan for their lives.

Ministering Beyond Appearances

Our ministry should not be for show but should stem from a genuine desire to see people come to know God. This means being willing to go where people are hurting, as Jesus did. Whether it’s ministering outside a homeless center or reaching out to someone struggling with sin, it’s about showing God’s love in action.

Growing Through Compassion

Understanding and showing compassion helps us grow in our spiritual journey. Jesus’ example teaches us to look beyond people’s actions and see their hearts, understanding the struggles they face. This perspective helps us minister more effectively and grow in our own relationship with God.

Relying on God’s Grace

We all fall short, but God’s grace is sufficient for us. Instead of leaning on self-righteousness, we should confess our sins and rely on God’s mercy and forgiveness. His faithfulness strengthens us during waiting periods, reminding us that He is working in and through us.

Fellowship with God and Each Other

Dedicated time with God through prayer and His word is essential. It’s in these moments of fellowship that we are reminded of our identity and purpose in Him. As we walk in the light of truth, we not only grow individually but also strengthen our relationships with others, shining as beacons of hope and truth in a world in need.

In summary, understanding our salvation and identity in Christ is the foundation for walking in spiritual authority, showing compassion, ministering effectively, relying on God’s grace, and growing in fellowship with Him and others. Let us embrace this newness of life, walking confidently in the truth of who we are in Christ.

 

Closing Scripture:

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” – Ephesians 3:20-21

Boldly Approaching God’s Throne

Audio Version:

Opening Scripture:

“Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.” – Matthew 6:9-13 (NKJV)

Tonight’s Message:

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget that God has a purpose for each of us. This year, it’s important to remember that God has plans filled with hope and goodness for us. But we also need to be aware that not everything in the world aligns with God’s ways. There are influences, like the spirit of the antichrist, that try to lead us away from what God wants for us.

Being led by God’s Spirit means making choices every day that are in line with God’s will. It’s about choosing to do the right thing, even when it’s not the easiest option. This includes the idea of ‘dying daily’ to our own desires and putting God’s plan first.

Prayer is key in this journey. It’s our direct communication with God, a way to align our thoughts and actions with His will. A life without prayer can feel empty and powerless. Through prayer, we not only talk to God but also receive the strength and guidance to face life’s challenges.

Despite the busyness of life, setting aside time for God and prayer is essential. It’s not always easy, but it’s important for maintaining our spiritual health. This is similar to the teaching of praying in secret, as mentioned in the Bible, where we seek a personal and private connection with God, away from the distractions of the world.

Forgiveness is another crucial aspect of our spiritual journey. Just as we seek God’s forgiveness, we are called to forgive others. This act of forgiveness is not just beneficial for those we forgive but also for our own spiritual growth.

This year is a time for us to step into a supernatural advantage, moving beyond the ordinary into a realm where prayer and faith take center stage. The more we immerse ourselves in prayer, the more attuned we become to this supernatural way of living.

Ephesians 3:12-21 encourages us to approach God boldly, with confidence. It’s a reminder to not let anything hinder our relationship with God. We are God’s vessels, entrusted with carrying out His work on earth. By staying connected to God through prayer and following His guidance, we can fulfill the purpose He has set for us.

Closing Scripture:

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” – Ephesians 3:20-21, NKJV

Tonight’s Worship Songs

Zacardi Cortez – 1 on 1

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Kirk Franklin – Listen

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The Clark Sisters – Blessed and Highly Favored

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