Sunday Preview: In the Middle of It All

God's presence in your life is not a distant concept but a tangible reality. He is actively at work, orchestrating events for our ultimate reunion with Him, where we will find eternal deliverance from sin and decay. Despite the trials and tribulations that inevitably come our way, God assures us that He does not abandon us. Instead, He uses these challenges to strengthen our faith and build our resilience.

God's Presence in Every Situation
From the very beginning of creation, God has been intimately involved in the lives of His people. He does not shy away from our difficulties but remains steadfastly present, offering comfort and guidance. As Job 5:7 reminds us, "Humans are born for trouble as surely as sparks fly upward." It's a reality we all face—the brokenness of our world often feels overwhelming, and many problems seem beyond our ability to solve.

In moments of despair, where can we turn? The Scriptures provide a reassuring answer. 1 Peter 5:7 urges us to "cast all your cares on him, because he cares about you." This promise echoes throughout Isaiah 43:2, assuring us that God is with us through every trial: "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."

Recognizing God's Work in Our Lives
Despite the challenges, we are not alone. God invites us to openly declare His work in our lives, as Psalm 96:3 encourages us: "Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples." Our response should be praise and gratitude, focusing not on our worries about tomorrow (Matthew 6:34) but on recognizing how God is actively working in our present circumstances.

The Power of Prayer
Prayer is central to our relationship with God—an avenue through which we communicate our deepest needs and desires. Psalm 145:18-19 assures us, "The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them." In Matthew 7:7-8, Jesus reinforces the efficacy of prayer: "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."

However, prayer is not merely about making requests but about aligning our hearts with God's will. Instead of focusing solely on specific outcomes, we are called to trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty, knowing He will act according to His perfect plan.

Closing Thoughts
Ephesians 3:20-21 beautifully encapsulates the magnitude of God's power and goodness: "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen." This truth should fill our hearts with confident trust, reshaping our perspective on life's challenges.

In conclusion, God's active presence in our lives empowers us to face each day with assurance. He equips us with faith in His goodness and the ability to navigate life's complexities one step at a time. As we embrace this truth, let it inspire you to live boldly, knowing that God is in the middle of it all.

Questions:

1. How has your experience with God’s providence during difficult times shaped your faith?
2. How can you shift your perspective to see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than just obstacles?
3. What does it mean for you to pray for God’s will instead of making specific requests?
4. How can we more effectively share our testimonies and the ways God has worked in our lives with others?
5. What practical steps can we take to reinforce our faith in God’s goodness and power?

OPENING / WELCOME
Russ Robins
SONG LEADER
Jason Schofield
PRAYER OF PRAISE
Rich Jacobs
LEAD LORD'S SUPPER
Jeremy Price
 ASSIST LORD’S SUPPER
Eric Renegar
Marvin Lewis
Gary Jackson
David Williams
SCRIPTURE READING
Bob Hoopes
Psalm 145:18-19
PREACHING
Matthew Allen
CLOSING PRAYER
Tony Bumbalough
CLOSING COMMENTS
Rich Walker
WELCOME CENTER
Emily McDonald / Kevin Shanesy
USHERS
Justin Spargo / Kevin Elkins
SONG DEVOTIONAL
Dru McLaughlin
COMMUNION PREP
Gwen Price
CLOSING THE BUILDING
Ben Baker