Faith and Patience: Waiting on the Lord

 

This is the manuscript of the sermon preached at Christ Church Los Angeles on July 27, 2025.

Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. (Psalms 27:14 NIV)

In a world that often celebrates instant gratification, quick fixes, and rapid progress, the concept of waiting can feel counter-intuitive, even frustrating. Yet, it is precisely in the challenge of waiting that our faith is refined, and our character is shaped. Waiting on the Lord is far more than passive inactivity or resigned idleness. Waiting on the Lord is an active, faith-filled, and patient expectation of God's perfect timing and His divine intervention. It is a spiritual discipline that requires both strength and courage.

Scripture Reading

Isaiah 40:23-31 NIV [23] He brings princes to naught and reduces the rulers of this world to nothing. [24] No sooner are they planted, no sooner are they sown, no sooner do they take root in the ground, than he blows on them and they wither, and a whirlwind sweeps them away like chaff. [25] “To whom will you compare me? Or who is my equal?” says the Holy One. [26] Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing. [27] Why do you complain, Jacob? Why do you say, Israel, “My way is hidden from the Lord; my cause is disregarded by my God”? [28] Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. [29] He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. [30] Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; [31] but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Text: 

Psalms 27:14 NIV Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.

Today, we turn our hearts and minds to a theme that is very challenging yet incredibly vital for our spiritual journey: "Faith and Patience: Waiting on the Lord." In a world that often celebrates instant gratification, quick fixes, and rapid progress, the concept of waiting can feel counter-intuitive, even frustrating. Yet, it is precisely in the challenge of waiting that our faith is refined and our character is shaped.

The scripture that James read this morning from Isaiah 40 reminds us of the eternal nature and inexhaustible power of God. He is the Creator, the one who never grows tired or weary. His understanding is beyond our grasp. 

As we read a couple of weeks ago His thoughts are higher than our thoughts and His ways higher than ours.

Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV [8] “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. [9] “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. 

His thoughts and ways are higher than ours plus, He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. This is the God we are called to wait upon.

Our sermon text has a concise but powerful command: "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." This has a  double emphasis, “Wait for the Lord” is there twice.  

Psalms 27:14 NIV Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.

This is not just a repetition, but an invitation to truly embrace the posture of waiting. It's as if the Psalmist understands our human inclination to grow restless, to become anxious, to take matters into our own hands. And so, he reiterates: "Wait for the Lord."

But what does it mean to "wait for the Lord"? It is far more than passive inactivity or idleness. Waiting for the Lord is an active, faith-filled, and patient expectation of God's perfect  timing and His divine intervention. It is a spiritual discipline that requires both strength and courage.

2 Corinthians 5:7 NIV tells us For we live by faith, not by sight. 

When we wait on the Lord, we are demonstrating our trust in His sovereignty, His wisdom, and His unfailing love. 

• It means believing that even when we don't see the path clearly, He does. 

• It means trusting that even when our prayers seem unanswered or delayed, God is working behind the scenes, orchestrating events for our good and His glory. 

Romans 8:28 says [28] 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. 

Consider Abraham, he was called to leave his homeland for a land he did not know, trusting in God's promise of a great nation, yet he waited decades for the birth of Isaac. 

Or consider Joseph, who endured betrayal, slavery, and imprisonment, patiently waiting for years for God's plan to unfold in his life. 

Or consider David who was anointed by Samuel as the future king of Israel as a young man. However, he then spent years as a shepherd, then a musician in Saul's court, and eventually a fugitive, constantly pursued by Saul. He didn't immediately step into his destiny. This period was a long season of waiting and preparation.  Most people think that the time between his anointing by Samuel and his actually becoming king of Judah was between 10 and 15 years.

The stories of these three men are powerful testimonies to the transformative power of patient faith.

As I said before - Waiting requires strength and courage. The Psalmist says, "be strong and take heart." Waiting is not for the faint of heart. It demands resilience. It demands a spirit that refuses to buckle under the pressure of uncertainty or the weight of unfulfilled desires. When we wait on the Lord, we are often confronted with our own impatience, our anxieties, and our desire for control. It takes courage to release that control and trust that God's way is always best. It takes strength to resist the temptation to rush ahead of God or to give up when the waiting becomes long.

How do we cultivate this strength and courage while we wait?

• Through prayer: Pour out your heart to God. Share your frustrations, your fears, your hopes. God does listen.

Psalms 62:8 NIV  Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

Luke 11:9-10 NIV [9]  “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. [10] For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

• Cultivate strength and courage Through His Word: Immerse yourself in scripture. God’s promises are a rock in the shifting sands of waiting. They remind us of His faithfulness through generations.

Deuteronomy 32:4 (NIV): "He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he." 

Psalm 119:90 (NIV): "Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures." 

And from our scripture reading this morning 

Isaiah 40:30-31 NIV [30] Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; [31] but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

This shows the unshakable nature of God and His word, providing a strong foundation for us, especially when we are in a season of waiting. They reinforce the continuous process of aligning with God's will and finding strength in His unwavering character.

• Cultivate strength and courageThrough community: Lean on your brothers and sisters in Christ. Share your burdens. Encourage one another. We are not meant to wait alone.

Galatians 6:2 (NIV): "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

We are called to share in each other's struggles, doing so is a fundamental expression of Christ-like love. It reinforces the truth that we are indeed not meant to navigate the journey of faith and waiting alone, but to lean on and encourage one another.

The people in the early church took care of each other and they should be examples for us today;

Acts 2:42-47 NIV [42] They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. [43] Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. [44] All the believers were together and had everything in common. [45] They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. [46] Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, [47] praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

• Cultivate strength and courage Through remembering God's past faithfulness: Reflect on how God has shown up for you in the past. If He was faithful then, He will be faithful now.

Lamentations 3:21-23 (NIV): "Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." 

Psalm 77:11-12 (NIV): "I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds." 

Psalm 103:2 (NIV): "Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits." 

These are beautiful reminders of God's unfailing love and faithfulness, which are renewed daily, giving us hope based on His consistent character. Don’t forget the good things God has done.

Actively recalling and meditating on God's consistent nature and actions, builds our confidence because if He was faithful before, He will surely be faithful again. 

The promise for those who wait on the Lord is astounding. They will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not be faint. This isn't just a promise of endurance, but of supernatural empowerment. Aligning with God's timing allows His divine power to flow through us, giving us the strength and renewed energy to conquer challenges and achieve His will for our lives.

Perhaps you are in a season of waiting right now. Perhaps you are waiting for a breakthrough in your health, for a new job, for a loved one to return to faith, for guidance on a major life decision, or simply for clarity in a confusing situation. Remember this: God is not slow. He is sovereign. His timing is perfect. And while you wait, He is working in you, refining you, teaching you, and preparing you for what is to come.

So, let us embrace this sacred discipline of waiting.

Let us shed the anxieties of an impatient world and instead, with humble hearts and unwavering trust, "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord."

May God grant us the faith to trust His perfect timing and the patience to endure the waiting, knowing that in Him, our strength will be renewed. 

Let us pray.

Gracious and merciful God we are humbled by Your eternal nature, Your inexhaustible power, and Your unfathomable wisdom. We confess that in a world of instant gratification, our hearts often grow restless, our patience wears thin, and our desire for control can overshadow our trust in You. Forgive us, Lord, when we rush ahead of Your perfect timing, when we doubt Your sovereignty, or when we grow weary in the waiting.

Thank You for the powerful reminder from Your Word today – that You are the God who never tires, who gives strength to the weary, and increases the power of the weak. Thank You for the testimonies of Abraham, Joseph, and David, who, through their seasons of patient faith, witnessed Your incredible plan unfold. Their lives are a beacon of hope, showing us that waiting is not wasted time, but a sacred space where You refine, teach, and prepare us.

Father, we pray for every person here today who is in a season of waiting. Whether it's for a breakthrough in health, for a new job, for a loved one to return to faith, for guidance on a major life decision, or simply for clarity in a confusing situation – we lift them to You. Grant them the courage to pour out their hearts to You in prayer, knowing You listen. Immerse them in Your Word, that Your promises may be a rock in the shifting sands of their journey. Strengthen them through community, to lean on brothers and sisters, sharing burdens and offering encouragement. And help us all to remember Your past faithfulness, so that our confidence in Your present and future faithfulness may never waver.

We hold onto the profound truth that You are not slow, but sovereign; that Your timing is perfect. And while we wait, we pray for open hearts and spirits, ready to be refined, taught, and prepared by Your loving hand. May we fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who endured with joy for the ultimate purpose of the forgiveness of our sin.

Empower us, Lord, by Your Holy Spirit, to embrace the sacred discipline of waiting with strength and good courage. Renew our strength, that we may soar on wings like eagles, run and not grow weary, and walk and not be faint. 

We offer this prayer in the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

Amen.

Benediction

As you go from this place, remember to wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. May you find renewed strength in His presence, soar on wings like eagles, run and not grow weary, and walk and not be faint, all for His glory.  Now, may the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.

Amen.

Strengthening Faith Through Prayer

This is the manuscript of the sermon preached at Christ Church Los Angeles on July 20, 2025.

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. (Matthew 7:7-8 NIV)

This isn't merely a recommendation; it's a divine mandate, a direct instruction from Jesus, promising God's ready response to our earnest seeking.

Think about any deep, meaningful relationship in your life. Whether it’s with a spouse, a child, a parent, or a close friend, what is the cornerstone of that relationship? It’s communication, isn't it? Consistent, honest, vulnerable, and heartfelt communication. Without it, even the strongest bonds begin to come apart. Our relationship with God is no different. Prayer is our direct line to the Creator of the universe, our intimate conversation with the One who knows us better than we know ourselves, who loves us with an everlasting love.

Scripture

Luke 18:1-8 NIV [1] Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. [2] He said: “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared what people thought. [3] And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’ [4]  “For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care what people think, [5] yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually come and attack me!’ ” [6] And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. [7] And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? [8] I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the aearth?”

Text  

Matthew 7:7-8 (NIV) Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

Sermon

As we've been saying all year, maintaining a strong foundation in faith and aligning our priorities with God's will is not a one-time event, but a continuous, lifelong process that requires regular self-reflection, an openness to God's guidance, and a consistent effort to nurture our relationship with Him. The lifeblood of this continuous process is prayer.

Our sermon text this morning, Matthew 7:7-8, gives us a powerful invitation and a profound promise: "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

This isn't merely a recommendation; it's a divine mandate, a direct instruction from Jesus, promising God's ready response to our earnest seeking.

Think about any deep, meaningful relationship in your life. Whether it’s with a child, a parent, or a close friend, what is the cornerstone of that relationship? It’s communication, isn't it? 

Consistent, honest, vulnerable, and heartfelt communication. 

Without it, even the strongest bonds begin to come apart. Our relationship with God is no different. Prayer is our direct line to the Creator of the universe, our intimate conversation with the One who knows us better than we know ourselves, the One who loves us with an everlasting love.

Yet, how often do we treat prayer as an afterthought? A quick whisper when trouble comes, a hurried list of requests before bed, or perhaps just going through the motions. The truth is, prayer is infinitely more than just asking for things. It is a dynamic, transformative discipline that strengthens our faith, aligns our hearts with God's divine purpose, and allows us to experience His presence in ways that transcend human understanding.

That’s why when we say the Lord’s prayer together every Sunday we should not treat it as just something we do each week. We should treat it as a serious, active declaration of our faith, a direct conversation with God, and a reaffirmation of our commitment to His will.

Today, let’s explore three deep ways prayer strengthens our faith. 1 Prayer Deepens Our Trust in God, 2 Prayer Helps Us Align Our Will with God's Will, and 3 Prayer Cultivates a Deeper Intimacy with God

1. First Prayer Deepens Our Trust in God

The very act of prayer is an act of humility and dependence. When we pray, we are actively acknowledging that we are not self-sufficient. We are admitting our need for power, wisdom, and a love far greater than our own. This admission, this surrender, is the first step towards deeper trust.

Consider the anxieties of the world today: economic uncertainties, health concerns, racial and religious issues, relational struggles, global conflicts. Our natural inclination is to worry, to strategize, to try and control every outcome. But the Bible offers a different path.

Listen to the comforting words of one of my favorite and one of my go-to  promises of God when I am in a tight place;

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

When we bring our anxieties, our fears, our deepest concerns before God in prayer, something miraculous happens. We lay down our burdens at the foot of the cross, and in return, we receive a peace that the world cannot give. 

This isn't just a fleeting emotion; it's tangible evidence of God's faithfulness. 

• Unlike worldly peace, which often relies on the absence of problems or favorable conditions, this divine peace can exist in the midst of turmoil, hardship, loss, or anxiety. It's not the absence of trouble, but the presence of God's tranquility within it.

• Our natural human minds often struggle to grasp how someone can be calm, hopeful, or even joyful when facing immense difficulties. This peace defies logical explanation or psychological reasoning. It's something that can only truly be understood by those who have experienced it.

• This peace "will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This implies that this peace acts as a shield, safeguarding our emotions and thoughts from being overwhelmed by worry, fear, and despair. It keeps our focus on God and His sovereignty, rather than on our problems.

• This peace isn't something we can conjure up on our own. It's a gift that flows from a deep trust in God, prayer, and an active relationship with Him. When we surrender our anxieties to Him through prayer and thanksgiving, He promises to fill us with this peace.

• Jesus himself spoke of a peace different from what the world offers.

John 14:27 NIV [27] Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

The peace that passes all understanding is often seen as a reflection of Jesus’ own perfect peace, which remained even in the face of all that He went through which culminated in His crucifixion and resurrection. 

The bottom line is that this peace is a divine tranquility that comes from knowing God is in control, even when everything around us feels out of control.

Each time we pray and experience His peace, or see His provision, or witness His guidance, our trust in His sovereignty and His goodness grows. It's like building a spiritual muscle – the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes.

Think of the countless times God has answered prayers in your life, perhaps in ways you didn't expect, or at times you thought all hope was lost. Each answered prayer, whether big or small, becomes a testimony to His active presence and care. It builds a track record of His faithfulness in our hearts, solidifying our confidence in Him. 

As Hebrews 11:1 reminds us, "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." 

Prayer is the vehicle through which we exercise and experience this confidence, turning unseen hope into tangible assurance.

2. Prayer Helps Us Align Our Will with God's Will

It is so easy for us, as human beings, to get caught up in our own desires, our own plans, our own timelines. We often come to God with a fixed agenda, expecting Him to rubber-stamp our wishes. Our prayers can sometimes sound more like demands than humble petitions. 

Sometimes when people pray under stress or duress, they will attempt to make a bargain with God: “If you do this Lord, then I will do this.”  Making promises to God in order to gain His favor isn't the thing to do. The blessings we receive are through God's grace, because He loves us, not because we talked Him into it by promising to do those things we should have done in the first place.  

Genuine prayer is not about bending God's will to ours; it is about allowing Him to mold our will to His perfect, good, and pleasing plan.

And what did we say last week about God’s plan for us?

Jeremiah 29:11 NIV For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 

So what we need to do is just surrender to God’s plan for us.

This kind of prayer requires not just talking, but also listening. It requires quiet contemplation, a willingness to set aside our own preconceived notions, and an openness to God's guidance. As we spend time in His presence, seeking His perspective, our hearts begin to shift. Our desires begin to conform to His.

Romans 12:2 powerfully states: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." 

Prayer and reading and studying the Bible are the primary means by which our minds are renewed and transformed. 

Philippians 4:8 NIV [8] Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 

It's in the quiet moments of communion that we gain clarity, discernment, and the wisdom to understand and embrace God's will for our lives. The more we seek His will in prayer, the clearer His path becomes for us, and our faith is strengthened by the confidence that we are walking in His divine purpose, even when that path is challenging.

Romans 8:28 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. 

3. Prayer Cultivates a Deeper Intimacy with God

Imagine trying to maintain a deep, meaningful relationship with someone you rarely speak to. It would quickly wither, wouldn't it? The same principle applies to our spiritual lives. Prayer is the lifeline of our relationship with God. It is in those consistent, intentional moments of communion that we truly get to know Him.

The prophet Jeremiah offers a beautiful promise in Jeremiah 29:12-13: "Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." 

This isn't just a promise of being heard; it’s an invitation to intimacy. An invitation to draw near, to share our deepest thoughts, our hidden struggles, our most profound gratitude, and to hear His gentle whisper in return.

Through prayer, we move beyond simply knowing about God to truly knowing God. We begin to understand His character, His faithfulness, His boundless love, not just intellectually, but experientially. 

Jesus said in John 15:7: "If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you." 

The key here is "remaining in Him." Prayer is how we remain in Him, how His words remain in us, and how our desires become so intertwined with His that we can ask with confidence, knowing our prayers are aligned with His will. This intimacy, this sense of being truly known, loved, and connected to the living God, is the ultimate strengthener of our faith. It transforms our belief from a mere intellectual assent into a vibrant, dynamic, and life-giving relationship.

Conclusion

"Strengthening Faith Through Prayer" is not just a catchy sermon title; it is a deep  truth and a practical necessity for every believer. Prayer is not a magic formula for instant solutions, nor is it a chore to be endured. It is the indispensable discipline for a robust, resilient, and enduring faith. It is how we continue to build that strong foundation, how we continuously align ourselves with God's will, and how we experience the profound joy and peace of His intimate presence.

So:

Make prayerpriority, not an option. Be honest and authentic. God already knows your heart. Come to Him as you are, with all your doubts, fears, and hopes.

Listen more than you speak. Create space for silence, for reflection, for sensing God's gentle guidance.

Be persistent. As our scripture reading from Matthew 7 reminds us, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." Don’t give up. Keep knocking, keep seeking, keep asking. 

Let us commit today, and every day, to strengthening our faith, one prayer at a time. Let us cultivate a deeper trust, a truer alignment, and a more profound intimacy with our Heavenly Father. When we do that we will discover the boundless strength and unwavering peace that only He can provide.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your incredible love and for the privilege of prayer. We're so grateful that You've given us a direct line to You, a way to deepen our faith and align our lives with Your perfect will.

Lord, we ask now that You would take the truths we've heard today and plant them deeply in our hearts. Help us to truly grasp the power that comes from consistent, heartfelt communication with You.

Holy Spirit, strengthen our resolve to make prayer a true priority, not just an obligation. Help us to be open to Your guidance, even when it challenges us, and to trust Your timing in all things. Remind us daily that You are always listening, always present, and always working for our good.

We pray all this in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.

This is the manuscript of the sermon preached at Christ Church Los Angeles on July 13, 2025.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV)

We live in a world that often feels chaotic, uncertain, and sometimes overwhelming. We experience setbacks, disappointments, and moments where the path ahead seems anything but clear. In such times, it’s easy to feel lost, anxious, or to question where we are headed.

In a world that constantly shifts beneath our feet, let us stand firm on the unchanging promise of God: "For I know the plans I have for you, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

Let us not forget that this faith is a journey, not a destination. It’s a continuous process of aligning ourselves with God's will. It requires us to regularly pause, reflect, and open ourselves to His loving guidance.

Scripture Reading: 

Jeremiah 29:1-14 NIV [1] This is the text of the letter that the prophet Jeremiah sent from Jerusalem to the surviving elders among the exiles and to the priests, the prophets and all the other people Nebuchadnezzar had carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. [2] (This was after King Jehoiachin and the queen mother, the court officials and the leaders of Judah and Jerusalem, the skilled workers and the artisans had gone into exile from Jerusalem.) [3] He entrusted the letter to Elasah son of Shaphan and to Gemariah son of Hilkiah, whom Zedekiah king of Judah sent to King Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon. It said: [4] This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: [5] “Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. [6] Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. [7] Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” [8] Yes, this is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let the prophets and diviners among you deceive you. Do not listen to the dreams you encourage them to have. [9] They are prophesying lies to you in my name. I have not sent them,” declares the Lord. [10] This is what the Lord says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place. [11] For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. [12] Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. [13] You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. [14] I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.”

Sermon 

We live in a world that often feels chaotic, uncertain, and sometimes overwhelming. Life throws curveballs, doesn't it? We experience setbacks, disappointments, and moments where the path ahead seems anything but clear. In such times, it’s easy to feel lost, anxious, or to question where we are headed.

But as believers, we are anchored by a profound truth – a truth that can bring peace amidst the storm and clarity in confusion. It's the truth shown in our text for today:

Text:

Jeremiah 29:11 NIV For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 

This isn't just a nice verse, one Christians affirms all the time, it's a divine declaration, a covenant promise from God, the Creator of the universe to His beloved children.

Today, we're going to talk about "Faith in God's Plan." This isn't about blind optimism; it's about a deep, abiding trust in the One who holds all things in His hands. As we have been saying all year, maintaining a strong foundation in faith and aligning our priorities with God's will is a continuous process, not a quick fix. It requires regular self-reflection and openness to God's guidance. 

The Context of God's Promise 

First let's unpack Jeremiah 29:11, our text, within its original context. This promise was given to the Israelites when they were in exile in Babylon. Just imagine their situation: uprooted from their homes, stripped of their temple, living in a foreign land under foreign rule. Their world had been turned upside down. They had every reason to feel hopeless, abandoned, and forgotten by God. They were likely asking, "Where is God in all of this? Does He even care?"

So what was God's message through the prophet Jeremiah? It wasn't an immediate rescue, it wasn’t  a magic carpet ride back to Jerusalem. Nope, He told them to settle down, build houses, plant gardens, marry, and pray for the welfare of Babylon. James read earlier thar in our Scripture today. 

As you see this was not the quick fix they might have wanted. It was instead a call to live faithfully in their current  difficult circumstances, yet, contained  in this directive for a prolonged stay in Babylon was this incredible promise: "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. . 

God was telling them: even in exile, even in what seems like a detour or a punishment, I have a plan. My plan is for your good, for your ultimate well-being, to give you a future and a hope. He wasn't ignoring their suffering; He was assuring them that their suffering was not purposeless. 

This is a crucial lesson for us. God's plan often unfolds not in the way we expect, or on our timeline. It often involves seasons of waiting, enduring, and even suffering sometimes. But the promise still remains: His plans are for our welfare, our future, and our hope.

Embracing God's Sovereignty 

So, what does it mean to have "Faith in God's Plan" in our own lives?

First, it means embracing God's sovereignty. It means acknowledging that God is truly God – all-knowing, all-powerful, and perfectly good. He sees the beginning from the end. He orchestrates events, not always in ways we understand, but always with a purpose that ultimately serves His glory and our good.

When we face disappointment, when doors close, when our prayers seem unanswered in the way we desire, it's a deep act of faith to say, "God, I don't understand this, but I trust that You are in control. I trust that Your ways are higher than my ways, and Your thoughts higher than my thoughts."

Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV [8] “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. [9] “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. 

Think about Joseph in the Old Testament. Sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely imprisoned, forgotten in a dungeon. From a human perspective, his life was a series of devastating setbacks. Yet, through it all, God was working His plan.Joseph's journey was not a straight line, but it was perfectly aligned with God's ultimate purpose.

Years later, Joseph could tell his brothers,

Genesis 50:19-21 NIV [19] But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? [20] You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. [21] So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.

Having faith in God's plan means releasing our grip on our own preferred outcomes and surrendering to His perfect will. It means praying, "Not my will, but Yours be done," not just as a religious phrase, but as a heartfelt plea of trust. This trust in God and His promises is the foundation for surrendering our limited understanding and trusting in God's perfect, often mysterious, but always good, sovereign plan.

Romans 8:28 NIV [28] 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. 

This continuous process of openness to God's guidance is essential. We need to ask ourselves; “Are we truly listening for His voice, even when it challenges our preconceived notions?

Living with Hope and Purpose

Having "Faith in God's Plan" means living with hope and purpose, even in the midst of uncertainty. Jeremiah 29:11 promises us "a future and a hope." This isn't just a vague wish; it's a solid assurance rooted in the character of God.

2 Corinthians 1:20 NIV For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. 

This means that every promise God has ever made, whether in the Old Testament or through His prophets, finds its ultimate affirmation and guarantee in Jesus Christ. Jesus is the embodiment and fulfillment of God's faithfulness. His life, death, and resurrection confirm that God is true to His word. There's no doubt, no hesitation, no "maybe" in God's promises when viewed through Christ.

Amen" is a Hebrew word that means "so be it," "it is true," or "let it be established." When we say "Amen" in response to God's promises, we are:

Agreeing with God.  We are placing our faith in His ability and willingness to bring those promises to pass.

We are giving Him glory, we are acknowledging His faithfulness and bringing glory to His name.

When we trust that God has a plan for us, it changes how we approach life.

• It gives us peace: We don't have to carry the weight of the world on our shoulders, trying to control every outcome. We can cast our anxieties on Him, knowing He cares for us, as it says in 1 Peter 5:6-7 NIV

[6] Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. [7] Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

• When we trust that God has a plan for us, it gives us perseverance: We know that God is working all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. This doesn't mean every situation feels good, but that God can bring good out of every situation.

• When we trust that God has a plan for us, it gives us purpose: Knowing God has a plan for us means our lives are not random. We play a role in a larger story that has a specific purpose.

Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV [8] For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— [9] not by works, so that no one can boast. [10] For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

This empowers us to seek His will, to use our talents and gifts for His glory, and to live in a way that honors Him, even when the specific details of the path ahead are unclear.

God’s plan for us is not just about our individual prosperity; it's intricately woven into His redemptive plan for the world. Our hope is not just for a comfortable life on earth, but for eternal life with Him, and for His kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven.

Conclusion 

In a world that constantly shifts beneath our feet, let us stand firm on the unchanging promise of God: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” 

I want us to cultivate a deep and abiding faith in God's perfect plan, even when we don't understand the winding roads He leads us on. I want us to find peace in His sovereignty, courage in His promises, and I want us to live each day with the hope and purpose that only His divine plan can provide. 

Let us pray for the grace to fully surrender to His will, trusting that His plans for us are always good.

Father, we acknowledge  Your supreme wisdom and unfailing love. We thank You that Your thoughts are not our thoughts, and Your ways are higher than our ways, reaching beyond anything we can comprehend.

Thank You, Lord, that Your promises are "Yes" in Christ, and we wholeheartedly declare our "Amen" to them. We believe that You are faithful and true, and every word You speak will come to pass.

We also thank You for the incredible truth that we are Your handiwork, created in Christ Jesus for good works which You prepared in advance for us to do. You have a divine purpose for each of our lives, and we desire to walk fully in it.

Father, we confess that sometimes our human understanding falls short. We can struggle to see Your hand in difficult circumstances, or to trust Your timing when our own desires feel pressing. Forgive us for our doubts and our limited vision.

We pray now for a deeper, unwavering faith in Your perfect plans. Help us to surrender our worries, our anxieties, and our need to control, knowing that You are sovereign over all. Open our eyes to see You're working, even in the unseen. Strengthen our hearts to trust Your goodness, even when the path is unclear.

Guide us, Holy Spirit, in this continuous process of self-reflection and alignment with Your will. Show us the good works You've prepared, and empower us to walk in them with courage, humility, and obedience. May our lives bring glory to Your name as we faithfully pursue Your purposes.

In Jesus' precious name,

Amen.