There are many things that can steal our joy. We might hear an inner voice telling us that our happiness will only be complete with “one more thing.” Paul calls on believers to protect their joy and find their confidence in the one thing they can never lose.

Some believers are in a state of continual spiritual adolescence. But God’s call is for every believer to grow into spiritual maturity. The Apostle Paul shows us that as we take steps of faith, God will powerfully work within us.

Due to technical difficulties no recording of this week’s sermon is available.

Much of our happiness is dependent upon our successes, our health and the well being of our family. But the Apostle Paul talks about finding joy even in midst of our failures and tragedies. Joy comes from knowing that God is using our pain and even our enemies for our deliverance and to further his Kingdom.

In this introduction to Philippians, the Apostle Paul lays out the big picture of the Christian life. God calls his people to live in a joyful community of love and hope. This community keeps us rooted in the ultimate source of our joy.

David at the end of his reign finds himself challenged by the betrayal of his son Absalom. David must flee into the wilderness where he is again entirely reliant on the plan and power of God. David eventually returns to the throne where he forgives his enemies and unifies a fractured kingdom. David’s final stand shows us that the Christian life is a constant battle where we are called to live by faith and to extend grace.

A powerful man sexually assaults a young woman, covers it up but is exposed later. This reoccurring story finds its origin in the story of David and Bathsheba. David’s assault shows us the destructive power of sexual sin but lays out the hope of restoration.

God’s presence is the most powerful and profound thing that we can ever seek in life. David’s experience with the Ark of God shows us that God’s presence can be dangerous yet ultimately life-changing. David learns the freedom of living before an audience of one.

In this passage David instead of taking vengeance on Saul, spares his life and makes peace with Saul. God calls us to release our desire for revenge and leave justice to God. David’s mercy gives us a pattern and a power for living a life of peace in a hostile world.

Summary to come.