Friday First: When It Doesn't Work Out

In the past eight weeks, our focus has been on marriage and family relationships, understanding that strong families contribute to strong churches, forming a solid foundation in Christ. We've explored the ideal standard God sets for us, which has been both challenging and enlightening. However, we cannot overlook those among us whose lives haven't unfolded as planned in terms of marriage and family, especially considering the alarming divorce rate of around 50%. In times of such hardship, our Lord offers provisions and healing.

Drawing inspiration from the encounter of Jesus with the Samaritan woman at the well, we learn that He offers hope and the gift of living water to quench our thirst for healing and restoration. The Lord is near the brokenhearted and responds to those who call on Him with integrity. To overcome bitterness and anger, we are encouraged to embrace forgiveness and seek peace, humbly relying on God's strength to resist the devil's temptations.
Amidst life's obstacles, we must remember our identity as children of God, equipped with a sound mind, power, and love to confront and conquer our challenges. Rather than dwelling on past plans that may have gone awry, we are called to trust in the Lord and rely on His divine guidance for new paths.

Divorce doesn't signify the end of God's plan for us; in fact, it can be a part of His redemptive plan. As we experience God's comfort in our afflictions, we are empowered to extend that comfort to others, understanding their struggles and offering compassion.

Sin disrupts all aspects of our lives, but in Christ, we are united as one family, supporting and caring for each other. Regardless of our individual journeys, we find solace in being connected through our faith in Christ. As we move forward, let us embrace God's plan for our lives, find healing in His love, and trust in His faithfulness.

As we gather together on Sunday we will see the Lord’s provision as we:

• Run to Jesus for healing.
• Turn away from any hardness in our heart.
• Refuse to be overwhelmed by the obstacles.
• Receive God’s new plan for our life.

As you prepare for worship be prepared to answer the following questions:

• How does the encounter of Jesus with the Samaritan woman at the well illustrate God's offering of hope and healing to those experiencing challenges in their marriages and families?
• In the face of hardship and brokenness, how can we practically apply the principles of forgiveness and seeking peace, as highlighted in Ephesians 4:31-32 and Romans 12:18?
• Reflecting on the idea that we are children of God, equipped with a sound mind, power, and love, how can we use these attributes to confront and overcome obstacles in our lives?
• Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to trust in the Lord and lean not on our understanding. How can we practically apply this trust when life doesn't turn out as planned, especially in the context of divorce or difficult family situations?
• In light of 2 Corinthians 1:4, how can we find comfort and purpose in our own experiences of affliction and brokenness, and how might we extend that comfort to others going through similar challenges in their lives?

OPENING / WELCOME
Kody Pritt

SONG LEADER
Dru McLaughlin

PRAYER OF PRAISE
Nathan Armstrong

LEAD LORD'S SUPPER
Jason Schofield
 
SCRIPTURE READING
Dan Spargo
Psalm 34.17-18

PREACHING
Matthew Allen

CLOSING PRAYER
George Wacks

CLOSING COMMENTS
Russ Robins

WELCOME CENTER
Judy Hickey / Betty Barlow

USHERS
David Willians / Jeremy Price

CLOSING THE BUILDING
Josh Childers