Palm Sunday Faith

This is the manuscript of the sermon preached on Palm Sunday at Christ Church Los Angeles, on Sunday April 13, 2025

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!” (Matthew 21:9 NIV)

Imagine the scene on Palm Sunday. The air is thick with anticipation. A multitude has gathered outside the city gates of Jerusalem. They have heard the whispers, the stories, the miracles of this man, Jesus of Nazareth. They believe, with a fervent hope, that He is the Messiah, the one who will deliver them.

And then He comes. Not on a warhorse, not in regal splendor as they might have expected, but humbly riding on a donkey, a colt.This very image speaks volumes about the nature of His kingship – a kingship of peace, of gentleness, of service, not of earthly power and dominion.

The faith we see on Palm Sunday, in all its power, invites us to look at the complexities of our own faith journeys. This enthusiastic crowd, these same voices that cried "Hosanna!" would, just days later, be swayed by fear and manipulation to shout a different cry: "Crucify Him!"

Scripture

Mark 11:1-11 NIV [1] As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples, [2] saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. [3] If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.’ ” [4] They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it, [5] some people standing there asked, “What are you doing, untying that colt?” [6] They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go. [7] When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it. [8] Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. [9] Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” [10] “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!” [11] Jesus entered Jerusalem and went into the temple courts. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve. 

Palm Sunday is a Christian holiday that falls on the Sunday before Easter. It commemorates the day Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey, and was greeted by cheering crowds who waved palm branches and shouted "Hosanna!" Today we celebrate Jesus' public entrance into Jerusalem, recognizing him as the Messiah, just days before his crucifixion. It's a day of both celebration and solemn reflection as it marks the beginning of Jesus' final, fateful week.

Text:

Matthew 21:9 NIV [9] 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!”

Philippians 2:5 NIV In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

Today, on Palm Sunday, we begin Holy Week, a week filled with profound meaning, sacrifice, and ultimately, glorious resurrection. Holy Week begins with the triumphant entry we commemorate today on Palm Sunday.  

Imagine, with me, the scene on that Sunday. Jerusalem was packed with Jewish pilgrims who had come to celebrate the Passover, a major religious festival, commemorating the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. The air is thick with anticipation. A big crowd has gathered outside the city gates of Jerusalem. They have heard the whispers, the stories, the miracles of this man, Jesus of Nazareth. They believe, with a fervent hope, that He is the Messiah, the one who will deliver them. 

The people were yearning for freedom from Roman rule. They might have hoped that Jesus, as the Messiah, would lead a rebellion against the Romans and establish an independent Jewish kingdom. The crowd may have interpreted Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem as the beginning of this liberation.

And then He comes, not riding the warhorse of a conquering hero. He doesn’t display the extravagance of earthly power.  What He does display is a powerful act of humility.  He’s not riding a warhorse, He’s not in regal splendor as they might have expected, but humbly riding on a donkey.This very image speaks volumes about the nature of His kingship – a kingship of peace, of gentleness, of service, not of earthly power and domination.

Here’s what the prophet Zechariah said nearly 550 years before this monumental day.

Zechariah 9:9 NIV Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.

The moment Jesus was within sight of Jerusalem, the crowd couldn't contain their excitement any longer. The people, filled with a spontaneous outpouring of faith and adoration, spread their cloaks on the road before Him, creating a royal pathway. They're grabbing palm branches, like, 'We won!' and 'He's the king!' and they're just waving them all over the place, yelling their heads off with happiness.

Matthew describes it like this.

Matthew 21:8-11 NIV [8] A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. [9] 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!” [10] When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?” [11] The crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.” 

They were yelling Hosanna which is a Hebrew word that means "Save us now!" or "Grant salvation!" In that moment, they were so hyped up, their faith was just bursting, and you could tell they were really believing and hoping. They saw in Jesus the fulfillment of their long-awaited dreams. They believed He was the one who would usher in a new era of freedom from Roman oppression and domination.

The faith we see on that first Palm Sunday, in all its power, invites us to look at the complexities of our own faith journeys.  Many in this enthusiastic crowd, many of these same voices that yelled "Hosanna!" would, just a few days later, be swayed by fear and manipulation to yell something else.  Instead of Hosanna they would be yelling "Crucify Him!"

This stark contrast forces us to examine our own faith. Is our faith a superficial enthusiasm, easily swayed by the winds of circumstance and popular opinion? Or is it a deep-rooted conviction, anchored in the unwavering truth of God's love and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

Palm Sunday faith is more than just waving palm branches and shouting praises. It is about recognizing Jesus for who He truly is – the Son of God, our Savior, the King who came not to conquer with might but to serve with humility and love. 

There was a time the mother of James and John approached Jesus with a request. Influenced by her sons' ambition, she asks that they be given the most prominent positions in Jesus's kingdom – one on his right and the other on his left. Of course this upset the other guys, because they all misunderstood Jesus' mission and the nature of his kingdom.  They still held expectations of earthly power and glory.

Here’s what Jesus said to them.

Matthew 20:24-28 NIV [24] When the ten heard about this, they were indignant with the two brothers. [25] Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. [26] Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, [27] and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— [28] just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” 

Palm Sunday faith is about acknowledging Jesus’ authority in our lives, not just in moments of celebration, but in the everyday struggles and challenges we face.

Let’s look quickly at;

Philippians 2:5-11 NIV [5] In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: [6] Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; [7] rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. [8] And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! [9] Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, [10] that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, [11] and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 

This should remind us of the humility and obedience that marked Jesus' time on earth. The Palm Sunday entry into Jerusalem was not the end of His mission, but rather a significant step on the path to the cross. The cheers of the crowd did not deter Him from the ultimate sacrifice He was willing to make for our salvation.  

Our Palm Sunday faith, therefore, must also be a faith that is willing to follow Jesus, even when the path leads to difficulty and sacrifice. It is a faith that recognizes that true victory often comes through humility and service. It is a faith that remains steadfast, not just in moments of triumph, but also in the face of adversity.

As we begin this Holy Week, let us reflect on the lessons of Palm Sunday. Let us examine the depth and sincerity of our own faith. Are we merely swept up in the excitement of the moment, or are we truly committed to following Jesus, wherever He may lead us?

May the waving of the palms today serve as a symbol of our renewed commitment to Him. May our "Hosannas" be more than just words, but a genuine expression of our desire for His saving grace in our lives. May we have the courage to follow Him, not just to the triumphant entry, but through the trials of the week ahead, knowing that it is through His sacrifice that we find our ultimate hope and salvation.

Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, who entered Jerusalem not as an earthly king but as the humble servant of our salvation. Forgive us for the times when our faith is shallow and easily swayed. Strengthen us, Lord, to follow Jesus with unwavering devotion, through times of joy and times of trial. May our "Hosannas" today be a true reflection of our commitment to you. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Resurrection Faith

This is the manuscript of the sermon delivered at Christ Church April 6, 2025.

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. (Matthew 28:5-6 NIV)

What exactly is Resurrection Faith?

It’s more than just believing that Jesus rose from the dead. It's a transformative belief that permeates every aspect of our lives. It's a faith that empowers us to live with hope in the face of despair, courage in the face of fear, and love in the face of hatred. It’s a faith that understands that death is not the final word, but merely a doorway to eternal life in Christ.

Scripture

1 Corinthians 15:1-11 NIV [1] Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. [2] By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. [3] For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, [4] that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, [5] and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. [6] After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. [7] Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, [8] and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born. [9] For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. [10] But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. [11] Whether, then, it is I or they, this is what we preach, and this is what you believed. 

Introduction:

Text 

Matthew 28:5-6 NIV [5] The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. [6] He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 

Today, we are going to talk about a cornerstone of our Christian faith, a truth that alters everything. Today, as we move toward  Easter, Resurrection Sunday, we are going to talk about Resurrection Faith. 

The resurrection is more than just a historical fact, it is the very foundation on which our hope, our purpose, and our eternal destiny are built. It is because of Jesus’ resurrection that we have “Resurrection Faith.”

What exactly is Resurrection Faith? 

Believing Jesus rose isn't just a fact; it changes everything about how we see things. It's a faith that empowers us to live with hope in the face of despair, courage in the face of fear, and love in the face of hatred. 

1. The Historical Reality: Evidence of the Resurrection

Our faith isn't built on mere speculation or wishful thinking. The resurrection of Jesus is fact grounded in historical evidence. 

The Apostle Paul, in his first letter to the Corinthians, part of which James read this morning lays it out clearly and concisely.

1 Corinthians 15:3-8 NIV [3] For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, [4] that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, [5] AND that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. [6] After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. [7] Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, [8] and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born. 

Paul emphasized the fulfillment of prophecy, when he said according to the Scriptures.  Here are some of those scriptures that prophesied that Jesus would die for our sins;

Isaiah 53:5-6 NIV [5] But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. [6] We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Zechariah 12:10 NIV  [10] And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son. 

Then Paul gives numerous eyewitness accounts, including himself. … he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born. 

The empty tomb, which is mentioned in our text, the appearances to his disciples, and the radical transformation of fearful followers into bold preachers all point to the undeniable reality of Jesus' resurrection. 

Before the resurrection, the disciples were hiding, fearing arrest and persecution

John 20:19-20 NIV [19] On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” [20] After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.

But after the resurrection and Pentecost, these same people were empowered by the Holy Spirit and boldly proclaimed Jesus as the risen Lord, even in the face of threats, imprisonment, and death.

Acts 2:1-4 NIV [1] When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. [2] Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. [3] They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. [4] All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

Their message revolved around the crucial truth of the resurrection. Here are some excerpts from Peter’s sermon on the day of Pentecost.  The entire sermon is Acts 2:14-38.

Acts 2:22-24, 32-33, 38-39 NIV [22] “Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. [23] This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. [24] But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. 

[32] God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. [33] Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. 

[38] Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. [39] The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

Paul wrote 1 Corinthians 15:12-14 NIV [12] But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? [13] If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. [14] And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. 

Resurrection Faith begins with acknowledging the historical truth of the resurrection.  Jesus Christ did rise from the grave.

2. The Power of the Resurrection: Victory Over Sin and Death

The resurrection isn’t just a past event; the power of the resurrection is active and present in our lives today. 

Romans 6:3-4 NIV tells us [3] Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? [4] We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.

The Apostle Paul wanted to experience that power 

Philippians 3:10-11 NIV [10] I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, [11] and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

Paul's yearning to experience the power of the resurrection serves as a powerful example. It highlights that faith is about  a deep, personal encounter with the living Christ and the transformative power of his victory over death. 

Hebrews 11:6 NIV [6] And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

We should seek that power of the resurrection in our own lives.  When we do, that power will  shape our priorities and guide us in God's will.

Sin's authority over us is nullified because of Jesus’ death on the cross and in his resurrection. Because Christ was raised to a new life, we are also given the ability to live in that newness, finally free from sin's bondage.

And if that is not enough, the resurrection is evidence that Jesus conquered death itself. 

1 Corinthians 15:54-55 NIV [54] When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” [55] “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”  

Because Jesus rose from the dead, we have the confident hope of our own resurrection. Death is no longer a final, terrifying end, but only a temporary separation before our reunion with Christ and with our loved ones who have gone before us. Our Resurrection Faith gives us hope beyond the grave.

3. Resurrection Fath should radically impact how we live. 

If death has been defeated and we have the promise of eternal life, how should that shape the way we live today?

First, Resurrection Faith calls us to live with an eternal perspective.

Philippians 3:20-21 NIV [20] But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, [21] who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

Knowing that our true and lasting home is in heaven with a resurrected and glorified Christ shapes how we view our present lives. 

This hope, which is rooted in Jesus' resurrection, is not just a wishful thinking, it is a "living hope".  A living hope in an eternal inheritance. 

Just look at what Jesus said to Lazarus’ sister before he raised him after he had been dead 4 days. 

John 11:24-26 NIV [24] Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” [25] Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; [26] and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

This living hope influences how we invest our time and energy in this life, knowing there is an imperishable reward awaiting us.  

1 Peter 1:3-4 NIV [3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, [4] and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 

Because believers have been spiritually raised with Christ through faith, we are called to focus our desires and thoughts on heavenly, eternal matters rather than the fleeting things of this world.  

Colossians 3:1-3 NIV [1] Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. [2] Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. [3] For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 

Knowing that our true home is in heaven with Christ should influence our priorities and our values. 

Philippians 2:5-6 NIV [5] In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: [6] Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage

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. 

Our resurrection faith enables us to realize that earthly hardships are only temporary in the face of everlasting glory.

James 1:2-4 NIV [2] Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, [3] because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. [4] Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 

While we may not achieve absolute, sinless perfection in this life, trials and tribulations, when faced with faith and perseverance, are part of God's process to shape us, mature our faith, and lead us towards spiritual completeness.

Resurrection Faith empowers us to be witnesses to the good news of the Gospel. 

Just as the early disciples boldly proclaimed the resurrection, we too are called to share the hope that we have in Christ. Our lives, marked by the transformative power of Resurrection Faith, become living testimonies to the reality of Jesus' victory.

Acts 4:33 AMP And with great ability and power the apostles were continuously testifying to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace [God’s remarkable lovingkindness and favor and goodwill] rested richly upon them all. 

Finally, Resurrection Faith compels us to live lives of love and service. 

Knowing the immense love that God demonstrated through the sacrifice and resurrection of His Son should motivate us to extend that same love to others. Resurrection Faith fuels a life of compassion, forgiveness, and selfless service.

1 John 4:7-12 NIV [7] Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. [8] Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. [9] This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. [10] This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. [11] Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. [12] No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

Conclusion:

The power of Resurrection faith actively transforms us. It provides a new lens through which we understand the past, energizes our current lives, and firmly grounds our hope in the victory of Jesus Christ over sin and death, through which we eternal life.

As we reflect on the resurrection and Resurrection Faith today, let us examine our own hearts. Is our faith a living, breathing Resurrection Faith that impacts how we live each day? Are we living with an eternal perspective? Are we boldly sharing the good news? Are we loving and serving others as Christ loved and served us?

The power of the resurrection can fill our hearts with hope, courage, and love, so that we can live lives that truly reflect the victory of our risen Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. 

Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, We are grateful beyond words for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, who through his death and glorious resurrection has conquered sin and death for us.

Grant us the courage and strength to live out our faith boldly, empowered by the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead. May our lives be a testament to the transforming power of the resurrection, bringing hope and light to a world that desperately needs it.

When we face trials and tribulations, remind us of the victory Christ has already won. Strengthen our perseverance and help us to hold fast to the hope we have in him. May our faith be a living, active faith, constantly looking to the risen Lord for guidance and strength.

Thank you, Lord, for the promise of our own future resurrection and the new life we have in Christ. May we live in the joy and freedom of that truth, until we are united with you in glory.

Trusting God's Direction

This is the manuscript of the sermon delivered at Christ Church March 30, 2025.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (Matthew 6:33 NIV)

We often find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of daily life. The demands of work, family, and personal goals, hopes and dreams can pull us in all sorts of directions, causing us to feel scattered and overwhelmed. In all this chaos, it is easy to lose sight of what really matters, which is our relationship with God and the pursuit of His will for our lives.

It is very important for us to keep our lives grounded in faith and to line up our priorities with what God wants. It's a process, not a quick fix. It means we have to check ourselves regularly and be open to letting God lead.

Matthew 6:28-34 NIV [28]  “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. [29] Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. [30] If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? [31] So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ [32] For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. [33] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. [34] Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Text:

Matthew 6:33 NIV [33] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 

We often find ourselves caught up in all the activities of daily life. The demands of work, family, and personal goals, hopes and dreams can pull us in all sorts of directions, causing us to feel scattered and overwhelmed. In all  this activity and chaos, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters, which is our relationship with God and pursuing His will for our lives.

So, today let's look at  the balance of faith and how we set our priorities to reflect God's will for our lives.

The key is for us to keep our lives grounded in faith so that our priorities line up with what God wants.  This means we have to check our own priorities and we have to be open to letting God lead us.

The Foundation of Faith

As we’ve been saying all year, faith is the foundation on which we should build our lives. 

Setting Priorities: God First

Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of prioritizing God above everything else.

Matthew 6:42-34 NIV [31] So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ [32] For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. [33] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. [34] Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

This is the secret to a fulfilling life. When we place God at the center of our lives, all other things fall into place. It means we should be looking at every decision we make, big or little, and asking, 'What would God want me to do?  What is God’s will in this matter?

Discernment and Guidance

Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to [5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

But wait there’s more;

Jeremiah 29:11 NIV [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. 

There’s even more;

Romans 8:28-30 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. [29] For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. [30] And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. 

What all this means is that we have to surrender our own desires and ambitions, trusting that God's plans are greater than anything we could come up with.  

Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV says [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.

We have to be open to, and aware of God's guidance, and allow Him to direct our steps. 

Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV [5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Practical Application

Setting priorities according to God’s will is not just an abstract concept; it has practical implications for our daily lives. For example:

1. Are we allocating our time in a way that reflects our commitment to God? Do we prioritize prayer, worship, and service to others?

Ephesians 5:15-17 NIV say [15] Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, [16] making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. [17] Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 

It's not just about scheduling time, it's about recognizing that every moment is an opportunity. Aligning with God's will means discerning how to use His gift of time for His purposes, whether it's work, rest, study, or recreation.

2. Are we using our resources to honor God, or are we consumed by materialism and greed?

1 Peter 4:10-11 NIV [10] Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. [11] If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. 

It's not just about tithes and offerings either, but it’s recognizing that all our resources belong to God. 

Psalms 50:9-12 NIV says [9] I have no need of a bull from your stall or of goats from your pens, [10] for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. [11] I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine. [12] If I were hungry I would not tell you, for the world is mine, and all that is in it.

Everything in the natural world, and by extension, everything in existence, belongs to God. God is the creator and sustainer of all things.

Colossians 1:15-16 NIV says [15] The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. [16] For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 

Aligning with God's will means using everything every gift for His glory.

James 1:17 says something that is very comforting 

James 1:17 NIV Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 

3. Do our relationships reflect the love and grace of Christ? Are we prioritizing reconciliation and forgiveness?

God's will for our relationships goes way beyond surface-level interactions.

John 13:34-35 NIV [34]  “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. [35] By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

This involves sacrificial love, and forgiveness.

1 John 4:19-21 NIV [19] We love because he first loved us. [20] Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. [21] And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.

We live in a world that often teaches us to hold onto grudges, to nurse our wounds, and to demand retribution.  When we make God’s will our priority we will put the needs of others before our own, and we will look for opportunities to forgive, to serve and uplift others.

4. Are we pursuing our goals in a way that aligns with God's purpose for our lives? Do our ambitions glorify Him?

Our ambitions, rather than being energized by the fleeting desires for wealth, power, or recognition, should be grounded in a deep desire to honor God and serve others.

Romans 12:1-2 NIV [1] Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. [2] 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. 

We can trust that God, in His infinite wisdom, will guide and protect us when we surrender our selfish desires to His priorities, to His will for us. He will not lead us down a path to destruction; His purpose is always good and perfect.

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 we can release our grip on worldly ambitions and place our trust in God's unwavering guidance, knowing that He will lead us to a life that truly matters.

Romans 8:28-30 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. [29] For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. [30] And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. 

The Reward of Obedience

When you do what God wants you to do, He will provide all the resources you need to accomplish what He wants done.  

We read this earlier today

Matthew 6:28-34 NIV [28]  “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. [29] Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. [30] If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? [31] So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ [32] For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. [33] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. [34] Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

When we prioritize God's will we have the assurance that God is able to provide abundantly, so that we can carry out the good works. He set up for us to do.

Ephesians 2:10 NIV says For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. 

When we align our priorities with God’s priorities we experience a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose. We are no longer driven by fleeting temporary desires but by an eternal perspective.

A Call to Action

So let’s commit to a life of faith and prioritize God's will above all else. Let’s seek is guidance in every decision, trusting that He knows best. Let’s remember that true success is not measured by worldly achievements but by our faithfulness to God's calling. Let’s strive to live lives that reflect the glory of God, setting our priorities according to His perfect will.

Prayer 

Dear Lord, thank you for the message we received today. Help us to trust in your direction, even when we can't see the path ahead. Guide our steps and give us the courage to follow where you lead. Amen.