We explored the theme of "Defeating Disappointment," drawing from the rich tapestry of scripture to understand how God meets us in our moments of despair. We began by honoring our veterans, acknowledging their sacrifices, and then transitioned into a time of worship, recognizing the presence of the King among us. Our primary texts were Ezekiel 1 and Psalm 107, which provided a framework for understanding how God operates in our lives, even when we feel like we've missed our appointments or opportunities. Ezekiel's vision by the river Kabar, on what should have been a significant day in his life, serves as a powerful reminder that no place is too far for God to reach us. Despite being in Babylon, a place of exile and broken dreams, Ezekiel experienced the heavens opening and saw visions of God. This illustrates that even in our darkest moments, God is present and working. Psalm 107 offers a structured approach to understanding disappointment through its four stanzas, each representing different types of disappointments: accidents, wrongs done by others, personal failures, and running from God. Each stanza ends with a call to give thanks to the Lord, emphasizing that crying out to God in our distress leads to deliverance. This psalm reassures us that God is never late, and He is always ready to guide us back to the right path, heal our wounds, and calm our storms. We also discussed the importance of having an active relationship with the Holy Spirit, likening it to having an instructor who guides us through life's challenges. Without this guidance, we risk walking through life with a list of instructions but no understanding of how to apply them. The Holy Spirit is essential for living a life of faith and overcoming the disappointments that inevitably come our way. Ultimately, the message is one of hope and encouragement. No matter the source of our disappointment, whether it be external circumstances, personal failures, or running from God, He is always ready to meet us where we are. We are reminded that God is not only present in our lives but actively working to bring about His purposes, even when we cannot see it.

In today's message, we explored the story of the twelve spies sent to scout the Promised Land, focusing on the contrasting perspectives of Caleb and Joshua versus the other ten spies. The narrative from Numbers 13 and 14 reveals a profound lesson about faith, vision, and the spirit of limitation. The ten spies returned with a report that, while acknowledging the land's abundance, emphasized the formidable obstacles, thereby instilling fear and doubt among the Israelites. This fear led to a loss of hope and vision, a common experience for many of us when faced with life's challenges. The spirit of limitation often tries to hinder our commitment to God's promises, using past experiences, relationships, or negative reports to keep us from realizing our potential. However, Caleb and Joshua demonstrated a different spirit, one of faith and wholehearted devotion to God. They saw the same giants and fortified cities as the others but chose to focus on God's promise rather than the obstacles. This story reminds us that the enemy may try to hinder us, but he cannot stop us from reaching our promised land if we remain steadfast in faith. Like the dog in the story, we often become accustomed to limitations that no longer exist, failing to recognize the freedom already granted to us through Christ. Jesus has cut the rope of bondage, and we are called to live in the fullness of that freedom. The key to overcoming the spirit of limitation is to have a vision of where God is leading us and to follow Him wholeheartedly. Caleb's life exemplifies this, as he was distinguished by his unwavering faith and commitment. The narrative encourages us to resist the temptation to settle for less or to lower God's standards for our lives. Instead, we are called to embrace the vision of the promised land, to taste the grapes of God's promises, and to pursue them with determination and faith. The glory of God is our sustainer, and by hosting His presence, we can counter opposition and live differently, as Joshua and Caleb did.

Taking a step of faith is often synonymous with taking a risk. Baptism is a profound act of faith, symbolizing a believer's commitment to follow Christ and become His disciple. It is not a prerequisite for salvation but a public declaration of the transformation that has already occurred within. Baptism requires humility, a willingness to die to the old self, and a commitment to live in the newness of life that Christ offers. It is a dramatization of the burial of the past and the resurrection into righteousness, where God sees not our imperfections but the righteousness of Christ in us. The act of baptism is a radical step of faith, a decision that signifies a believer's adherence to the teachings of Jesus. It is a commitment to live by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God, regardless of societal or political pressures. In a world where the lines between good and evil are increasingly blurred, baptism is a declaration of allegiance to Christ and His kingdom. It is a reminder that we are not remodeled versions of our old selves but new creations in Christ, something that has never existed before. Faith is inherently risky, requiring us to step out of our comfort zones and trust God with the unknown. Biblical figures like Abraham, David, and Peter exemplified this radical faith, taking significant risks that led to profound transformations. Their stories remind us that where there is no risk, there is no faith, and without faith, there is no power, joy, or intimacy with God. Risk takers are those who hear God's voice and obey, trusting that He knows best. In our journey of faith, God often brings us to the edge of a decision, challenging us to take a radical step of faith. This decision is not just about following Christ but fulfilling the purpose He has for our lives. It involves a willingness to risk everything for the sake of gaining everything in Christ. As believers, we are called to be risk takers, stepping out in faith and trusting God to do the impossible. This radical faith is what transforms us from good to great, enabling us to experience the fullness of God's promises. **Key Takeaways:** - Baptism is a public declaration of faith, symbolizing the burial of the old self and the resurrection into a new life in Christ. It requires humility and a commitment to live in righteousness, where God sees the righteousness of Christ in us. [03:58] - Faith involves taking risks, stepping out of our comfort zones, and trusting God with the unknown. Biblical figures like Abraham and David exemplified this radical faith, leading to profound transformations. [34:09] - Baptism signifies adherence to the teachings of Jesus, a commitment to live by every word from God, regardless of societal pressures. It is a declaration of allegiance to Christ and His kingdom. [08:53] - Radical faith is about making decisions that align with God's purpose for our lives, even when it involves significant risks. It transforms us from good to great, enabling us to experience the fullness of God's promises. [22:29] - Risk takers are those who hear God's voice and obey, trusting that He knows best. This obedience is a sign of trust and respect, leading to a deeper intimacy with God. [29:23] **Youtube Chapters:** [0:00] - Welcome [01:01] - The Significance of Baptism [03:58] - Humility and Righteousness [07:04] - New Creation in Christ [08:53] - Adherence to Jesus' Teachings [11:48] - Faith and Risk Taking [12:22] - God's Exposures and Guidance [13:41] - Choosing the Right Path [17:23] - Sincerity in Baptism [18:23] - Dying to the World [20:39] - Radical Steps of Faith [22:04] - The Cost of Faith [22:29] - Decisions and Faith [25:00] - The Greatest Decision [26:40] - Faith and Transformation [27:51] - Risk and Faith [29:23] - Obedience and Trust [30:40] - Abraham's Radical Faith [34:09] - David and Peter's Faith [36:57] - Jairus and the Woman's Faith [39:48] - Blind Bartimaeus' Faith [43:00] - Radical Faith and Transformation [45:53] - Prayer and Commitment

In today's message, we explored the profound truth found in Romans 8:28, which assures us that all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose. This doesn't mean that everything we experience will be comfortable or enjoyable, but rather that God uses every circumstance to shape us into the image of His Son. Our journey through life's challenges is not about what we endure but what we gain from those experiences. It's about the wisdom, strength, and perspective we acquire as we navigate through trials.

In today's message, we explored the spiritual battles that Christians face, particularly focusing on the concepts of regression, repression, suppression, and depression. These are tactics used by the enemy to hinder our spiritual growth and expression. We began by discussing the importance of being part of something greater than ourselves, recognizing that God is at work in our lives and communities. This sense of belonging and purpose is crucial in combating the darkness that tries to seep into our lives, especially during times like the Halloween season when the focus on darkness is more pronounced. We delved into the teachings of Paul, particularly Ephesians 4:27, which warns us not to give place to the devil. This involves being vigilant and on guard, recognizing the enemy's attempts to interact with our lives. The enemy's tactics include causing us to regress, which means reverting to old behavior patterns and losing the progress we've made in our spiritual journey. We are reminded that we are built for progress and advancement, and any backward movement is a sign of negative spiritual forces at work. Repression, on the other hand, involves restraining our natural expressions of joy and exuberance that God desires for us. We are encouraged to be expressive in our faith, allowing our hearts to burn with passion for God, much like the disciples on the road to Emmaus. Suppression takes this a step further, pushing us under and concealing our victorious Christian lifestyle. It is crucial to resist these forces through prayer, worship, and maintaining a close relationship with God. Depression, a more severe form of spiritual attack, can lead to feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy. However, we are reminded that peace is a powerful weapon against these strongholds. By seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, we align ourselves with His will and protection, ensuring that all other needs are met. This lifestyle of seeking God first shields us from the enemy's attacks and allows us to live in the fullness of joy and peace that God intends for us. 

Today, we delved into the topic of demons and their influence, particularly focusing on the story of the man possessed by a legion of demons in Mark 5. We explored the Greek term for demon, which translates to "demonized," meaning to be affected or influenced by demons. This influence is not limited to non-believers; even Christians can give place to the devil through disobedience and sin. We examined various scriptures, including Ephesians 2:2 and Acts 5, to understand how disobedience opens doors for demonic influence. The story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5 serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of lying to God and how it can fill our hearts with the enemy. We also discussed the importance of not giving place to the devil, as mentioned in Ephesians 4:27. Christians need to be vigilant and consistent in their walk with God to avoid fulfilling the lusts of the flesh, as stated in Galatians 5:16-17. We emphasized that while a born-again Christian's spirit is regenerated and cannot be possessed by evil spirits, their mind, will, and emotions can still be affected. Therefore, it is crucial to walk in the Spirit consistently. The story of the man in the tombs, who was possessed by a legion of demons, illustrates the destructive power of evil spirits but also highlights Jesus' authority over them. When Jesus cast the demons into a herd of pigs, it demonstrated His power to set people free from demonic influence. We concluded by reminding everyone that Jesus has the final say over any chaos or destruction in our lives. No matter how severe the situation, Jesus' authority and power can bring deliverance and peace. We need to continually seek the Holy Spirit's filling and submit ourselves to God to resist the devil effectively. ### Key Takeaways 1. **Disobedience Opens Doors to Demonic Influence**: Disobedience to God gives evil spirits the right to influence and work within us. Ephesians 2:2 and Acts 5 illustrate how even church members can fall prey to demonic influence through disobedience and lying to God. It's crucial to live in obedience to close these doors. [01:46] 2. **Christians Can Be Affected by Demons**: While a born-again Christian's spirit is regenerated and cannot be possessed, their mind, will, and emotions can still be affected by evil spirits. Walking in the Spirit consistently, as stated in Galatians 5:16-17, helps us avoid fulfilling the lusts of the flesh and keeps us protected. [07:35] 3. **The Power of Consistent Faith**: Persistent faith in God and knowledge of the truth are essential for spiritual growth and protection. James 4:7 teaches that submitting to God and resisting the devil will make him flee. This requires a continuous, not sporadic, commitment to God. [11:50] 4. **Jesus' Authority Over Evil Spirits**: The story of the man possessed by a legion of demons in Mark 5 demonstrates Jesus' authority over all spirit beings. Even the most chaotic and destructive spirits must bow to Jesus. This story reassures us that no matter how severe our situation, Jesus has the power to bring deliverance. [35:27] 5. **The Importance of Being Filled with the Holy Spirit**: Continuously seeking to be filled with the Holy Spirit is vital for maintaining spiritual health and protection. Ephesians 4:30 warns against grieving the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the need for a constant, deep relationship with God to keep demonic influences at bay.

Today, we delved into Acts chapter 8, focusing on the story of Philip and the early church's persecution. We began by discussing the concept of strongholds, which are areas where Satan has seized control, causing us to live with symptoms like anger, depression, and anxiety. These strongholds can be passed down through generations, but we must be vigilant and fight against them. We explored the persecution faced by the early church, particularly the havoc wreaked by Saul. Despite the persecution, those who were scattered continued to preach the Word, demonstrating that adversity can lead to growth and multiplication. We emphasized that if one person in a household can break free from the enemy's control, it can lead to freedom for the entire household. Philip's journey to Samaria was highlighted, where he preached Christ and brought great joy to the city. This joy was contrasted with the stronghold of Simon the sorcerer, who had deceived the people with his sorcery. Despite the joy and miracles, the region was still under Simon's influence, illustrating that we can experience temporary relief but still be under a stronghold. We discussed the importance of not settling for temporary joy but striving for complete freedom from strongholds. The enemy is a master deceiver, and we must be aware of the principalities and powers that seek to control us. We must get our houses in order, both spiritually and physically, to experience the full glory of God. In conclusion, we must be vigilant and proactive in breaking free from strongholds. By doing so, we not only free ourselves but also our families and future generations. Let's strive for complete freedom and not settle for temporary relief.

We delved into the concept of influence and its profound impact on our lives. We began by examining the story from Numbers 13, where Moses sent spies to scout the Promised Land. Despite the land flowing with milk and honey, the spies were intimidated by the giants residing there, leading to fear and doubt among the Israelites. This narrative underscores the importance of being mindful of who or what influences us. As believers, we are responsible for discerning and stewarding the influences in our lives, ensuring they align with God's word and promises. We also explored the story of Samson in Judges 15, where he used the jawbone of a donkey to defeat a thousand Philistines. This story illustrates that the anointing was not in the jawbone itself but in God's power working through it. Similarly, we must be cautious not to cling to past methods or traditions that God has moved on from. Instead, we should seek what God is using today to accomplish His purposes. The sermon emphasized the need for faith that defies reality. Faith acknowledges the presence of giants and mountains but refuses to submit to them, trusting instead in God's power to overcome. We looked at David's encounter with Goliath, where David's faith in God, rather than Saul's armor, led to his victory. This story serves as a reminder that our confidence should be rooted in God alone. Finally, we discussed the importance of attitude, using the analogy of a lion's belief system. A lion's confidence and attitude stem from its belief in its own strength, despite facing larger and more powerful animals. Similarly, our spiritual attitude should be fueled by our belief in God's power and promises, enabling us to face and overcome any adversary.

We are exploring the profound message of "buying into the promise" through the story of Jeremiah in Jeremiah 32. Jeremiah, despite being in a dire situation—imprisoned in a dungeon and surrounded by the siege of Jerusalem—received a word from God to buy a seemingly worthless piece of land. This act of faith, buying land that appeared to have no future, symbolized his trust in God's promise that one day, houses, fields, and vineyards would again flourish there. Jeremiah's obedience, even in the lowest circumstances, teaches us that faith often requires us to invest in God's promises when it seems most illogical. Jeremiah's uncle, Hanamel, whose name means "the grace of God," brought the offer, signifying that grace is always on the way, even in our darkest moments. Grace empowers us to do what we cannot do on our own. It shows up with action and hope, urging us to take steps of faith even when we are still bound by our circumstances. The message encourages us to buy into God's promises, not just when things are good, but especially when they are tough. We are reminded that our present suffering is not the end. God calls us to build, plant, and increase even in our waiting periods. We are to impact our current situation positively, believing that the same place of our weeping will become a place of rejoicing. The true test of faith is whether we can hold on to God's promises and act on them, even when the outcome is not visible. Finally, the sermon emphasizes that Jesus is coming back, and we must live every day with the belief that our God is in control. We are called to buy into this truth and live out our faith actively, impacting the world around us while we wait for His return. ### Key Takeaways 1. **Faith in Dire Circumstances**: Jeremiah's act of buying land while imprisoned teaches us that faith often requires us to invest in God's promises when it seems most illogical. True faith is demonstrated not when the outcome is clear, but when we trust God in the midst of our darkest moments. [05:10] 2. **Grace in Our Lowest Points**: The arrival of Jeremiah's uncle, Hanamel, whose name means "the grace of God," signifies that grace is always on the way, even in our darkest moments. Grace empowers us to do what we cannot do on our own and shows up with action and hope, urging us to take steps of faith even when we are still bound by our circumstances. [08:00] 3. **Active Waiting**: While waiting for God's promises to manifest, we are called to build, plant, and increase. We should not become complacent but should positively impact our current situation, believing that the same place of our weeping will become a place of rejoicing. [20:25] 4. **Endurance Through Suffering**: The question is not how long our suffering will last, but how long we will last through our suffering. We must hold on to God's promises and not sell out, even when the pain of our past makes it hard to buy into the future. [16:00] 5. **Living with Eternal Perspective**: We must live every day with the belief that Jesus is coming back and that our God is in control. This eternal perspective should drive us to buy into God's promises and live out our faith actively, impacting the world around us while we wait for His return. [29:10] ### YouTube Chapters [0:00] - Welcome [01:01] - Jeremiah's Purchase [01:48] - Nothing is Too Hard for God [02:31] - Jeremiah's Imprisonment [04:01] - The Siege of Jerusalem [04:34] - The Real Estate Deal [05:10] - Faith in Low Circumstances [06:54] - Buying In While Bound [07:30] - Grace is On the Way [09:02] - Grace Brings Action [10:02] - Grace Brings Hope [11:05] - Buy the Truth [12:41] - Buying Into the Promise [14:18] - From Weeping to Rejoicing [16:00] - Endurance Through Suffering [18:27] - Paul's Thorn and God's Grace [19:43] - Active Waiting [21:15] - Impacting Our Current Situation [23:34] - Building in Bondage [25:02] - Keep Building and Believing [27:12] - Jeremiah's Act of Faith [28:27] - Jesus is Coming [30:28] - Invitation to Salvation [32:34] - Prayer of Salvation [33:47] - Take Ownership of the Promise

Today, we gathered to celebrate Children Dedication Day, a significant moment where families publicly declare their commitment to raising their children in the ways of the Lord. This dedication is not just a ceremony but a profound declaration that we are entrusting our children to God, acknowledging that they are His gifts to us. We reflected on the story of Abraham and Isaac, emphasizing the importance of surrendering our children to God, just as Abraham did. Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac demonstrated his ultimate trust in God and his understanding that Isaac belonged to God first and foremost. We also discussed the critical role of parents in nurturing their children’s spiritual growth. This involves loving God more than anything else, including our children, and ensuring that our love for God sets the foundation for how we raise them. By doing so, we are not only showing our children the way to live but also securing God's blessings and guidance in their lives. The dedication of children is a reminder that our primary responsibility is to lead them to God, teaching them to live according to His will. Moreover, we touched on the challenges parents face today, especially with the increasing attacks on the identity and values of our children. The enemy seeks to devour, but God’s grace abounds even more. We must be vigilant and steadfast in our faith, ensuring that our homes are places where God is honored and His principles are upheld. This dedication is a commitment to raise our children in a godly manner, understanding that it requires daily obedience and reliance on God’s strength and wisdom.