Sermons from Good News: The power of encouragement

Blogger's Note: On Wednesdays for the foreseeable future, I will be copying and pasting on this blog notes I take in my phone from sermons at the church I attend. My goal is to share both current week sermons (which will be posted on a different day of the week) as well as catch up on the backlog of notes. I want to also clarify that these are not my sermons, but rather the bullet point notes I put together. I enjoy our pastor's messages very much, and more importantly he preaches the Word of God as-is, which means the Spirit of God is imparting wisdom and knowledge through him. To God alone be the glory.

Church 11/28/2020

Series: it's time to speak faith

Tonight's Sermon: The power of encouragement

People in your life, in this country, in this world need encouragement

Definition of encouragement: The action of giving someone support, confidence, and hope

Focus scripture passage: John 14

Jesus says "God will send you a comforter."

26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

John 14:26 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2014:26&version=NIV

God is not like the devil who uses condemnation. God encourages you.

"A pat on the back is only a few inches away from a kick in the pants."

(My addition)

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,

Romans 8:1 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Romans%208:1&version=NIV

Encouragement is something that God does

Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.”

Luke 18:27 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%2018:27&version=NIV

God wants to help you.

God wants to forgive you.

God wants to comfort you.

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

2 Corinthians 1:2-4 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=2%20Corinthians%201:2-4&version=NIV

God's love for us shows when He encourages us.

Our love for God shows when we encourage other people.

How to witness for Jesus to non believers: encourage them.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

John 3:16-17 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%203:16-17&version=NIV

Encouragement is the purpose behind God's Word

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.

Romans 15:4 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Romans%2015:4&version=NIV

Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

1 Timothy 4:13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Timothy%204:13&version=KJV

Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.

1 Timothy 4:13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Timothy%204:13&version=NIV

Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them.

1 Timothy 4:13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Timothy%204:13&version=NLT

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=2%20Corinthians%201:3-4&version=KJV

Encouragement can change people's lives. It can continue to change lives.

You do not have to know someone to encourage them.

You will never offend someone by encouraging them.

You never know what dividends your encouragement will do for someone else down the road.

Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.

Acts 4:36-37 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Acts%204:36-37&version=NIV

Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.

Acts 11:25-26 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Acts%2011:25-26&version=NIV

But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.

Hebrews 3:13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hebrews%203:13&version=NIV

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.

Galatians 6:7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Galatians%206:7&version=NIV

I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

Philippians 4:13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Philippians%204:13&version=NIV

Sermons from Good News: the Importance of Palm Sunday, Part 2

Sermon message, continued from the previous post:

Palm Sunday. Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, and it ends with Resurrection Sunday.

The question: what is so important about Palm Sunday?

Thesis: the answer to the above question.

Palm Sunday was during the Passover. The Jews knew they were supposed to get a lamb without blemish. They were still offering sacrifices at that time. The Passover happens when Jesus rides into Jerusalem, on the day the Jews were supposed to offer their lambs to God (i.e. The priests).

Get rid of the old yeast, so that you may be a new unleavened batch—as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.
1 Corinthians 5:7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Corinthians%205:7&version=NIV

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!
John 1:29 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%201:29&version=NIV

The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!” When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?” The crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”
Matthew 21:6-11 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2021:6-11&version=NIV

The palm leaves = the leaves Adam and Eve used to try to cover their sins = the leaves, along with the garments, that were thrown on the ground when Jesus rode in on a colt.

28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.
Matthew 26:28 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2026:28&version=NIV

Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!
Romans 5:9 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Romans%205:9&version=NIV

In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace
Ephesians 1:7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Ephesians%201:7&version=NIV

and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.
Colossians 1:20 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Colossians%201:20&version=NIV

And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood.
Hebrews 13:12 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hebrews%2013:12&version=NIV

For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.
1 Peter 1:18-19 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Peter%201:18-19&version=NIV

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
1 John 1:7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20John%201:7&version=NIV

and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood,
Revelation 1:5 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Revelation%201:5&version=NIV

Jesus knew about everything: the Bible history, the symbolism of the sacrificial lamb, the Passover, and everything else. And He still went and died for our sins.

God makes a way when we can't but He doesn't stop there. God gives us pictures in the Bible to remind us.

Jesus wants us to know that God wants a relationship with us, not just to do away with sin but also to have fellowship with us.

Palm Sunday tells us that God wants to have a real relationship with you.

Garments don't cover our sin.

Leaves don't cover our sin.

Religion doesn't cover our sin. Don't let the religious leaders keep you from having a relationship with God for yourself.

Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. 13 “It is written,” he said to them, “‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.’”
Matthew 21:12-13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2021:12-13&version=NIV

Equivalent of Roman Catholic "indulgences."

The money changers would steal from customers. To buy anything at the temple in Jerusalem, you had to change your currency to temple currency. So the exchange regularly involved the money changers giving back less in temple money than what the customers had given them.

[[Another layer to this: pastor Tim didn't preach this, but I heard this a couple years ago at yet another church: the area where the tables were set up, including the money-changing table, that space was designated for non-Jews to be able to worship and pray to the God of Israel. But what had happened was that the temple leaders had driven out the non-Jews to make space for the sellers and money changers.]]

Bottom line, because of Jesus' blood sacrifice, a direct relationship with the Lord God Almighty has been made possible for anyone, both Jews and non-Jews. Only by accepting Christ's sacrifice and receiving Him as Lord and Savior can one's sin be truly covered.

Sermons from Good News: the Importance of Palm Sunday, part 1

Blogger's Note: On Sundays, I will be copying and pasting on this blog notes I take in my phone from sermons at the church I attend. I'll be sharing sermons from the current week. On Wednesdays I'll also be sharing sermon messages dating back to October, when I first began attending my current church. Because of the backlog of sermons, I will be running posts on Wednesdays until sometime in May. My goal on Sundays is that sharing these sermons will theoretically be perpetual, or until I feel God nudging me to do something different. I want to also clarify that these are not my sermons, but rather the bullet point notes I put together. I enjoy our pastor's messages very much, and more importantly he preaches the Word of God as-is, which means the Spirit of God is imparting wisdom and knowledge through him. To God alone be the glory.

Church 3/27/2021

Palm Sunday

They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna! ” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the king of Israel!”
John 12:13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2012:13&version=NIV

Offertory scripture:

The wife of a man from the company of the prophets cried out to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that he revered the Lord. But now his creditor is coming to take my two boys as his slaves.” Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” “Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.” Elisha said, “Go around and ask all your neighbors for empty jars. Don’t ask for just a few. Then go inside and shut the door behind you and your sons. Pour oil into all the jars, and as each is filled, put it to one side.” She left him and shut the door behind her and her sons. They brought the jars to her and she kept pouring. When all the jars were full, she said to her son, “Bring me another one.” But he replied, “There is not a jar left.” Then the oil stopped flowing. She went and told the man of God, and he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debts. You and your sons can live on what is left.”
2 Kings 4:1-7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=2%20Kings%204:1-7&version=NIV

How does this apply to us? What did God's word via the prophet say? What do we do when we have a need? Sometimes God's direction to us when we call out to Him isn't what we expect. But He often works what little we have. God is a good God and He works through what we have. The extent of a miracle does depend on our faith. God does want to bless us but also so we can bless others. Challenge is for our faith to be stretched.

Sermon message:

Palm Sunday. Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, and it ends with Resurrection Sunday.

Why is Palm Sunday important?

2.3-2.5 billion Christians in the world, and they're thinking about Palm Sunday and resurrection Sunday. Even when they don't read scripture as much as we would like, they certainly remember Palm Sunday and reflect on it.

Even in the Psalms there are Psalms about ascending to Jerusalem. "Blessed is the king that comes in the name of the Lord!"

The question: what is so important about Palm Sunday?

Thesis: the answer to the above question.

Knowledge = wisdom.

Knowledge = power.

my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. “Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children.
Hosea 4:6 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hosea%204:6&version=NIV

32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
John 8:32 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%208:32&version=NIV

God made a way for Adam and Eve when they could not.
They made a garment out of leaves once they realized they were naked.

Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.
Genesis 3:7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Genesis%203:7&version=NIV

Mankind has always tried to cover up their sins. But they can't.

God made a covering for Adam and one for Eve.

The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them.
Genesis 3:21 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Genesis%203:21&version=NIV

God skinned an animal to make garments for them. It took blood to make it happen, to pay the price. The garments don't cleanse heir sins but it covers them. A picture of the savior who would save us by cleansing us.

God made a way for Adam and Eve when they could not make a way.

God made a way for the Israelites when they could not.
They were held in bondage in Egypt for 400 years. It was a time of great darkness. The Israelites could not get out no matter what. They couldn't work their way out, they couldn't fight their way out, they couldn't reason their way out.
At the end, none of the plagues worked against the Egyptians. Not until animal blood was shed.

Then Moses summoned all the elders of Israel and said to them, “Go at once and select the animals for your families and slaughter the Passover lamb. Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe. None of you shall go out of the door of your house until morning. When the Lord goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, he will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down. “Obey these instructions as a lasting ordinance for you and your descendants.
Exodus 12:21-24 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Exodus%2012:21-24&version=NIV

The difference was the sin of the Israelites was covered because they had the blood of the Passover lamb on their doorposts, whereas the Egyptians had not. As a result, the Israelites could leave and not die. This is a picture to remind us that the blood of Jesus delivers us from the power of darkness.

For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Colossians 1:13-14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Colossians%201:13-14&version=NIV

The Jewish people still celebrate Passover even today. They still observe Seder.

God made a way for us because we can not.

for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
Romans 3:23 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Romans%203:23&version=NIV

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Romans%206:23&version=NIV

But God still made a way for us.

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
John 14:6 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2014:6&version=NIV

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%203:16&version=NIV

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Romans%206:23&version=NIV

To be continued next post...

Sermons from Good News: Thanksgiving goodness

Blogger's Note: On Wednesdays for the foreseeable future, I will be copying and pasting on this blog notes I take in my phone from sermons at the church I attend. My goal is to share both current week sermons (which will be posted on a different day of the week) as well as catch up on the backlog of notes. I want to also clarify that these are not my sermons, but rather the bullet point notes I put together. I enjoy our pastor's messages very much, and more importantly he preaches the Word of God as-is, which means the Spirit of God is imparting wisdom and knowledge through him. To God alone be the glory.

Thanksgiving goodness

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

James 1:17 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=James%201:17&version=NIV

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.

Psalm 34:8 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2034:8&version=NIV

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Psalm 100:4-5 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%20100:4-5&version=NIV

You are good and do only good; teach me your decrees.

Psalm 119:68 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%20119:68&version=NLT

You are good, and what you do is good; teach me your decrees.

Psalm 119:68 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%20119:68&version=NIV

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Romans%208:28&version=NIV

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

Romans 8:28 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Romans%208:28&version=NLT

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Thessalonians%205:16-18&version=NIV

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.

Psalm 136:1 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%20136:1&version=NIV

He remembered us in our low estate His love endures forever. and freed us from our enemies. His love endures forever. He gives food to every creature. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.

Psalm 136:23-26 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%20136:23-26&version=NIV

Sermons from Good News: Don't fear; God is here

Blogger's Note: On Sundays, I will be copying and pasting on this blog notes I take in my phone from sermons at the church I attend. I'll be sharing sermons from the current week. On Wednesdays I'll also be sharing sermon messages dating back to October, when I first began attending my current church. Because of the backlog of sermons, I will be running posts on Wednesdays until sometime in May. My goal on Sundays is that sharing these sermons will theoretically be perpetual, or until I feel God nudging me to do something different. I want to also clarify that these are not my sermons, but rather the bullet point notes I put together. I enjoy our pastor's messages very much, and more importantly he preaches the Word of God as-is, which means the Spirit of God is imparting wisdom and knowledge through him. To God alone be the glory.

Church 3/20/2021

Offertory scripture:

32 And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.”
John 12:32 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2012:32&version=NIV

Sermon message:

God loves you and wants you blessed. Blessed: Mentally, emotionally, spiritually, physically, etc. because He loves you.

Thesis: don't fear, God is here

Here = inside you. When you accept Christ as Lord, He sends into you the Holy Spirit to be your companion or guide.

God wants to lead us and He wants to supply us our needs.

Review:

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Psalm 23:1-3 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2023:1-3&version=KJV

You are accepted. You are requested. You are valued.

And you are celebrated. Not mocked. Not ridiculed. But celebrated.

Tonight's focus verse:

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Psalm 23:4 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2023:4&version=KJV

God is with you. Not only so, but He is in you.

The point of this is to build your faith.

We need to build our faith. Especially in a world of fear.

Faith puts us in a position to receive from God.

Of course Satan will try to not let you get in position.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Ephesians 2:8 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Ephesians%202:8&version=KJV

Analogy of the receiver position in football, the football is grace or favor from God, the quarterback in this analogy is God, and the defenders who try to stop the quarterback and receiver, that's the enemy. The goal of course is for the football receiver to receive the football from the quarterback. The analogy is that we need to be in position to receive God's grace and favor.

Mark 5:34:

And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.
Mark 5:34 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%205:34&version=KJV

He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.”
Mark 5:34 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%205:34&version=NIV

Mark 9:23:

Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.
Mark 9:23 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%209:23&version=KJV

23 “‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.”
Mark 9:23 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%209:23&version=NIV

Luke 18:42:

And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee.
Luke 18:42 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%2018:42&version=KJV

2. Fear will take you out of position to receive from God

Repeat of focus verse:

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psalm 23:4 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2023:4&version=NIV

But faith in God can overcome fear.

But David said to Saul, “Your servant has been keeping his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it. Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” Saul said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with you.”
1 Samuel 17:34-37 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Samuel%2017:34-37&version=NIV

Fear... it takes you out of position to receive from God.

Israel and the Philistines were drawing up their lines facing each other. David left his things with the keeper of supplies, ran to the battle lines and asked his brothers how they were. As he was talking with them, Goliath, the Philistine champion from Gath, stepped out from his lines and shouted his usual defiance, and David heard it. Whenever the Israelites saw the man, they all fled from him in great fear.
1 Samuel 17:21-24 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Samuel%2017:21-24&version=NIV

But instead, David was living in faith.

Psalm 23:4. "I will fear no evil, for You are with me." This is the most recited verse in the entire bible.

Don't fear; God is here (in you).

God can build your faith through this psalm and especially this verse. (Verse 4) Read it out loud. It'll make a difference.

3. When things don't happen like you thought they would, remember that God is still with you.

4. When you are in a storm, God is with you.

Passages where Jesus said and demonstrated that He is with us, even in the storm.

33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2016:33&version=NIV

11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. 13 The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. 14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.
John 10:11-15 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2010:11-15&version=NIV

David met Goliath in a valley. Goliath is just a shadow.

5. Our reaction in a valley is really important.

Do we give in to faith and trust God, or do we give in to fear and turn away from Him?

Sermons from Good News: The powerful prayer of faith

Blogger's Note: On Wednesdays for the foreseeable future, I will be copying and pasting on this blog notes I take in my phone from sermons at the church I attend. My goal is to share both current week sermons (which will be posted on a different day of the week) as well as catch up on the backlog of notes. I want to also clarify that these are not my sermons, but rather the bullet point notes I put together. I enjoy our pastor's messages very much, and more importantly he preaches the Word of God as-is, which means the Spirit of God is imparting wisdom and knowledge through him. To God alone be the glory.

Church 11/14/2020

Offering scripture meditations: we serve a God of miracles.

“As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.”

Genesis 8:22 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Genesis%208:22&version=NIV

Sermon message:

Elijah: great prophet of God. Prayed for it not to rain, prayed for fire, prayer for rain again. To prove that the God of the Bible is the one true God.

Thesis: The powerful prayer of faith.

A jumping-off point:

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

James 5:16 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=James%205:16&version=NIV

Confess the sin to who you wronged, apologize (get forgiveness) and then pray. Pray. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful. But clearing our ledger first (wrongs vs God, wrongs vs others) is important.

Another reference:

Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.

1 Peter 3:7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Peter%203:7&version=NIV

Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years.

James 5:17 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=James%205:17&version=NIV

The powerful prayer of faith is connected to obedience.

After a long time, in the third year, the word of the Lord came to Elijah: “Go and present yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain on the land.” So Elijah went to present himself to Ahab. Now the famine was severe in Samaria,

1 Kings 18:1-2 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Kings%2018:1-2&version=NIV

As sign of faith is how quickly do you obey; how much of it you do...

By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.

Hebrews 11:8 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hebrews%2011:8&version=NIV

We could build our faith by developing a habit of immediately responding to God. Conversely, delayed obedience opens the door for doubt, which weakens our faith.

God honors obedience.

None of us often has the ability to do what God calls us to do. We do it with God's help.

Faith is based on hearing the inaudible. Based on seeing the invisible. Based on doing the impossible.

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

1 Corinthians 1:18 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Corinthians%201:18&version=NIV

“Son of man, you are living among a rebellious people. They have eyes to see but do not see and ears to hear but do not hear, for they are a rebellious people.

Ezekiel 12:2 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Ezekiel%2012:2&version=NIV

And Elijah said to Ahab, “Go, eat and drink, for there is the sound of a heavy rain.”

1 Kings 18:41 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Kings%2018:41&version=NIV

How do we know when it's God talking?
Read the Bible.
Pray.
Listen to someone preaching the word of God.

27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.

John 10:27 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2010:27&version=NIV

The powerful prayer of faith accomplishes the impossible

Prayer not based on the position of your body but it is based on the position of your heart.

See what Jesus was doing when He prayed:

Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”

Matthew 26:39 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2026:39&version=NIV

Even though it's about the position of the heart and not the body, the position of one's body CAN tell us something about the position of one's heart.

Now consider Elijah:

So Ahab went off to eat and drink, but Elijah climbed to the top of Carmel, bent down to the ground and put his face between his knees. “Go and look toward the sea,” he told his servant. And he went up and looked. “There is nothing there,” he said. Seven times Elijah said, “Go back.” The seventh time the servant reported, “A cloud as small as a man’s hand is rising from the sea.” So Elijah said, “Go and tell Ahab, ‘Hitch up your chariot and go down before the rain stops you.’”

1 Kings 18:42-44 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Kings%2018:42-44&version=NIV

Elijah has the guy go check because he expects the rain to happen. He expects God to show up and persists in prayer. And God did.

Meanwhile, the sky grew black with clouds, the wind rose, a heavy rain started falling and Ahab rode off to Jezreel. The power of the Lord came on Elijah and, tucking his cloak into his belt, he ran ahead of Ahab all the way to Jezreel.

1 Kings 18:45-46 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Kings%2018:45-46&version=NIV

The powerful prayer of faith will work for you.

Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.

James 5:17-18 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=James%205:17-18&version=NIV

Elijah was a man with a nature like ours [with the same physical, mental, and spiritual limitations and shortcomings], and he prayed intensely for it not to rain, and it did not rain on the earth for three years and six months.

James 5:17 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=James%205:17&version=AMP

Therefore, confess your sins to one another [your false steps, your offenses], and pray for one another, that you may be healed and restored. The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man (believer) can accomplish much [when put into action and made effective by God—it is dynamic and can have tremendous power].

James 5:16 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=James%205:16&version=AMP

My brothers and sisters, if anyone among you strays from the truth and falls into error and [another] one turns him back [to God], let the [latter] one know that the one who has turned a sinner from the error of his way will save that one’s soul from death and cover a multitude of sins [that is, obtain the pardon of the many sins committed by the one who has been restored].

James 5:19-20 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=James%205:19-20&version=AMP

Sermons from Good News: God makes a way

Blogger's Note: On Sundays, I will be copying and pasting on this blog notes I take in my phone from sermons at the church I attend. I'll be sharing sermons from the current week. On Wednesdays I'll also be sharing sermon messages dating back to October, when I first began attending my current church. Because of the backlog of sermons, I will be running posts on Wednesdays until sometime in May. My goal on Sundays is that sharing these sermons will theoretically be perpetual, or until I feel God nudging me to do something different. I want to also clarify that these are not my sermons, but rather the bullet point notes I put together. I enjoy our pastor's messages very much, and more importantly he preaches the Word of God as-is, which means the Spirit of God is imparting wisdom and knowledge through him. To God alone be the glory.

Church 3/13/2021

Offertory message:

God is good all the time.

God is big on honor.

It's easy for us to get our allegiances misplaced with other places. God wants us to see Him as our source of income. And for us to honor Him that way.

God will supply all your needs according to His immense riches through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19.

Sermon message:

God makes a way when there seems to be no way.

God's desire for you: He wants you blessed.

Thesis: God will lead you and will supply for your needs.

Psalm 23 and John 3:16 are like spiritual oxygen. We need it.

God knows who you are, knows where you are, and knows how to bless you. He knows what you really need.

Four things He supplies:

A. Relationships

God supplies relationships. First, with Him. You are loved and accepted by Him. And He is requesting a relationship with you. And He values you. 

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
Psalm 23:1 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2023:1&version=KJV

God cares about all His sheep. And He also cares about each sheep. You are valuable to the shepherd, which is Jesus. He supplies for you a relationship with Him.

He also supplies other relationships too. Friends. Friendships. Valuable connections.

Fight for those relationships with people who value you.

B. God also supplies Resources

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
Psalm 23:1 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2023:1&version=KJV

"...I shall not BE in want." Psalm 23:1

A job is a resource, but God is your source.

The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, to guide and to shield me], I shall not want.
Psalm 23:1 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2023:1&version=AMP

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
Psalm 23:1 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2023:1&version=NIV

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Philippians%204:19&version=NIV

C. Next thing God supplies is Rest.

Rest.

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
Psalm 23:2 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2023:2&version=NIV

God supplies natural/actual rest. And He also supplies supernatural/spiritual rest. He supplies ways to get actual rest. Even Jesus needed rest when he was ministering. He needed both physical rest and supernatural/spiritual rest.

Sometimes God will call you to spend extra time with him, even in the middle of the night. God may be saying: "Something's coming up. I need to strengthen you for it."

Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
1 Timothy 6:12 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Timothy%206:12&version=NIV

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Galatians 6:9 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Galatians%206:9&version=NIV

Key word: REAP. Spend more time with Him to be strengthened, so that you will reap a harvest afterward.

D. God supplies Restoration.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Psalm 23:3 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2023:3&version=KJV

God restores you by leading you in the paths of righteousness. To spend more time with Him, to have better relationships with Him and with others around you.

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
Matthew 11:28 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2011:28&version=MSG

We can be restored.

Sermon from Good News: God is our assurance

Blogger's Note: On Wednesdays for the foreseeable future, I will be copying and pasting on this blog notes I take in my phone from sermons at the church I attend. My goal is to share both current week sermons (which will be posted on a different day of the week) as well as catch up on the backlog of notes. I want to also clarify that these are not my sermons, but rather the bullet point notes I put together. I enjoy our pastor's messages very much, and more importantly he preaches the Word of God as-is, which means the Spirit of God is imparting wisdom and knowledge through him. To God alone be the glory.

Church 11-7-2020

Scripture meditation

Proverbs 10:22

Sermon message

Series theme: It's time to speak faith

Third sermon

To review
God is our refuge
God is our protector

Psalm 91. Written by Moses.

Moses knew the word of God. He eve wrote the word of God. But above all, Moses got to experience the presence of God.

Read the word of God. But then spend time with God.

It lets us know who God is. It also lets us know what God does.

Psalm 91:1-2 -- Moses sharing his experiences of what God said to him. But the rest of the psalm is God speaking to us directly.

Thesis: God is our assurance

God will rescue those who love him. Psalm 91:14

Mark 12:29,30

The more time you spend with God, you'll start knowing Him more, you'll start loving Him more. It also means you put Him first. Matthew 6:33.

God will protect those who trust His name

Psalm 91:14

Hebrews 11:6

Jeremiah 17:7-8

God answers the prayers of those who love and trust Him

Psalm 91:14-15

God is with us in trouble

Psalm 91:15

(Psalm 46:1)

God rescued and honors those who love, trust, and pray to Him

Psalm 91:15

God will reward those who love Him with long life

Psalm 91:16

God will give salvation to those who love Him

Psalm 91:16

John 3:16

Sermons from Good News: You have an eternal friend

Blogger's Note: On Sundays, I will be copying and pasting on this blog notes I take in my phone from sermons at the church I attend. I'll be sharing sermons from the current week. On Wednesdays I'll also be sharing sermon messages dating back to October, when I first began attending my current church. Because of the backlog of sermons, I will be running posts on Wednesdays until sometime in May. My goal on Sundays is that sharing these sermons will theoretically be perpetual, or until I feel God nudging me to do something different. I want to also clarify that these are not my sermons, but rather the bullet point notes I put together. I enjoy our pastor's messages very much, and more importantly he preaches the Word of God as-is, which means the Spirit of God is imparting wisdom and knowledge through him. To God alone be the glory.

Church 3/6/2021

Offertory scripture:

And the Lord shall make thee plenteous in goods, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground, in the land which the Lord sware unto thy fathers to give thee. The Lord shall open unto thee his good treasure, the heaven to give the rain unto thy land in his season, and to bless all the work of thine hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow.
Deuteronomy 28:11-12 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Deuteronomy%2028:11-12&version=KJV

The following verse wasn't part of the offertory scripture, but it's a powerful verse for this time:

And the Lord shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the Lord thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them:
Deuteronomy 28:13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Deuteronomy%2028:13&version=KJV

Sermon message:

Thesis: You have an eternal friend

Studies back up the importance of friendship. It's great for life-longevity.

Scriptures that talk the importance of friendships:

One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Proverbs 18:24 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Proverbs%2018:24&version=NIV

16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.
John 14:16-17 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2014:16-17&version=NIV

Advocate = comforter = Paraclete

Paraclete = one who comes alongside you. The Holy Spirit comes alongside you, advocates for you, is with you.

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
John 14:16-17 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2014:16-17&version=KJV

These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
John 14:25-26 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2014:25-26&version=KJV

Jesus' promise as He also promises the Holy Spirit:

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
John 14:27 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2014:27&version=KJV

Another way of wording it:

“I’m telling you these things while I’m still living with you. The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request, will make everything plain to you. He will remind you of all the things I have told you. I’m leaving you well and whole. That’s my parting gift to you. Peace. I don’t leave you the way you’re used to being left—feeling abandoned, bereft. So don’t be upset. Don’t be distraught.
John 14:25 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2014:25&version=MSG

A good friend guides you, protects you, helps you.

Looking at a picture is not the same as being with the person.

Similarly, reading the Bible, while good, is not the same as receiving God's presence---the Holy Spirit.

Apostle Paul wen through a lot of changes, a lot of challenges. He was powerful, he had the power of the Holy Spirit... but he also had a deep friendship with God.

You have a friend that brings light to your loneliness.

At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
2 Timothy 4:16-18 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=2%20Timothy%204:16-18&version=NIV

Loneliness does not depend on what is around you; it depends on what's going on inside of you.

We need to lead people to Jesus Christ. He is the greatest friend and they need Him, to receive Him, and to know Him.

Receiving an eternal friend also means receiving an internal friend. (The Holy Spirit)

You have an eternal friend that brings triumph in transition.

I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn?
2 Corinthians 11:26-29 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=2%20Corinthians%2011:26-29&version=NIV

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=2%20Timothy%204:7&version=NIV

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=2%20Corinthians%204:17-18&version=NIV

You got an eternal friend that brings peace in pain

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Philippians%204:7&version=NIV

Critical verse to remember:

One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Proverbs 18:24 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Proverbs%2018:24&version=NIV

The friend who sticks closer than a brother, that's the Holy Spirit.

Walk through life with the Holy Spirit. Don't walk through life without Him.

A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
Proverbs 18:24 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Proverbs%2018:24&version=KJV

Sermons from Good News: God is our protection

Blogger's Note: On Wednesdays for the foreseeable future, I will be copying and pasting on this blog notes I take in my phone from sermons at the church I attend. My goal is to share both current week sermons (which will be posted on a different day of the week) as well as catch up on the backlog of notes. I want to also clarify that these are not my sermons, but rather the bullet point notes I put together. I enjoy our pastor's messages very much, and more importantly he preaches the Word of God as-is, which means the Spirit of God is imparting wisdom and knowledge through him. To God alone be the glory.

Church 10/31/2020

Opening verse: “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:7,9 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Joshua%201:7,9&version=NIV

Pastor Tim's sermon

Sermon Series: It's time to speak faith

Last week: God is our refuge

Tonight's thesis: God is our protection

We are on a journey of life. We need God along the journey. Especially when there are challenges. Because they will come.

Consider the story of Abram who became Abraham. He chose to trust and believe God along his life story. Hence Abraham is called the father of faith.

Consider also the story of the Israelites during time of Moses. Sometimes they trusted God. Sometimes they didn't. A direct relationship between trusting God and being blessed.

Consider also the story of Moses. He already had a full life story by the time God called him to lead Israel out of Egypt.

Moses also wrote the first 5 books of the Bible. Also wrote psalm 90, 91, and perhaps others psalms. 

When they first approached the promised land, Moses sent out 12 scouts. 10 of them said they couldn't take the land because they were afraid. But two scouts also went and said they could take the land. The last two spoke faith. The other scouts spoke doubt.

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”

Psalm 91:1-2 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2091:1-2&version=NIV

The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 18:2 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2018:2&version=NIV

Thesis reiterated: God is our protection

God has promised to always be there and see us through

“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

Psalm 91:14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2091:14&version=NIV

God will rescue me from every trap.

Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.

Psalm 91:3 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2091:3&version=NIV

(Extra verse)

You have delivered me from all my troubles, and my eyes have looked in triumph on my foes.

Psalm 54:7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2054:7&version=NIV

God will protect me

Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.

Psalm 91:3 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2091:3&version=NIV

God will cover me

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

Psalm 91:4 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2091:4&version=NIV

37 “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing.

Matthew 23:37 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2023:37&version=NIV

God's word is my armor and protection

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

Psalm 91:4 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2091:4&version=NIV

God is always with me and He can handle anything

You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.

Psalm 91:5-6 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2091:5-6&version=NIV

I will not stop trusting God

Note: All the Israelites age 40 and older died before making to the promised land, because they didn't trust God

A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked.

Psalm 91:7-8 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2091:7-8&version=NIV

God is my protector

If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.

Psalm 91:9-10 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2091:9-10&version=NIV

God's promise to protect us:

For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

Psalm 91:11-12 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2091:11-12&version=NIV

The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.

Psalm 34:7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2034:7&version=NIV

Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?

Hebrews 1:14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hebrews%201:14&version=NIV

You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

Psalm 91:13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2091:13&version=NIV

At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.

Mark 1:12-13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%201:12-13&version=NIV

“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

Psalm 91:14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2091:14&version=NIV

Closing verse and section:

God is still on the throne no matter what. Continue to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

The Lord said to Moses, “Tell Aaron and his sons, ‘This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them: “‘“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. ”’ “So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.”

Numbers 6:22-27 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Numbers%206:22-27&version=NIV