Sermon Summary
This week, Pastor Chris shared a word on how to prepare for and embrace change from a Biblical perspective. God’s interruptions often mean growth, and growth will always mean change. The Israelites stood before the Jordan River at the edge of the desert with their eyes on the promised land. All they had to do was cross. Rather than take a step in faith, they questioned the Lord and chose to fear and wander for 40 years. In this season of transition for our church body, we want to embrace what God is doing. He is inviting us to trust Him and take our own step of faith. The safest place for us to be in this process of change is in step with Jesus.
- Embrace the Challenge – We have to move with God. We have to stand with him and respond in agreement.
Joshua 1:1–2 (ESV)
1 After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ assistant, 2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now therefore arise,go over this Jordan, you and all this people, into the land that I am giving to them, to the people of Israel.
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Wayne Gretzky
- See Your Inheritance – In order to cross, we have to lock our eyes in on the right thing. We cannot lock our eyes on fear, anxiety or unbelief. Whatever we choose to lock your eyes on will dictate our decisions. Where are your eyes? On your deficiencies or God greatness? Your failures or the redemptive power of God? Have the eyes of faith to see.
Joshua 1:3 (ESV)
3 Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you, just as I promised to Moses.
“Don’t look back. You will be going the wrong way.”
- Focus on God – Focus on what He is saying to you.
Joshua 1:4-5 (ESV)
4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon as far as the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites to the Great Sea toward the going down of the sun shall be your territory. 5 No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you.
Discussion Questions
- How do you naturally respond to change?
- Why did the Israelites fail to cross the Jordan River when they were so close? Why would they desire to go back to their bondage in Egypt?
- How can we stand in agreement with God in the midst of change or a challenge?
- There are miracles God wants to release, but only once we will step forward in obedience. Is there an area you need to take a step forward in?
Application Questions
- Pastor Chris said whatever we choose to lock our eyes on will dictate our decisions. Where are your eyes? Are they on your deficiencies or God greatness? On your failures or the redemptive power of God? Answer this question honestly this week.