God's Design

Sermon Reflections from Ask Me Anything: God's Design | Alex Hardt | September 15, 2024

Pastor Alex set a very powerful sermon before us that challenged us to be counter-cultural but not anti-cultural! The way non-Christians think about Christians is often with derision and dislike. Why is that? Perhaps they have met too many Christians that are judgement about their lifestyles or preferences in living. I loved Pastor Alex’s wise words based in scriptures that show us a better way, Jesus’ way of loving those of the world. Jesus wanted us to be in the world as He was, shining His light and truth. John 12:46 “I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.” However, He does not want us ruled by the ways of the world, Romans 12:2, “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. “

I have often pondered what the world would have been like, will be again in heaven, without the presence of sin. All the perversions of nature, greed, lust, desires of the flesh, lawlessness etc. are because of sin. God’s plan, his perfect design is for us to live in peace with Him. Since we are not free from the presence of sin here on earth, we have to rely upon God’s Word to guide us through the power of the Holy Spirit within us given when we accepted Jesus into our lives. Following God’s perfect plan is the right thing to do in marriage, in our sexuality, our conduct with others, etc as it brings peace to us and glory to God. Is it easy, No! Remember, sin is all around us.

What can we do to live pure and holy lives? Psalm 119 gives us wise words in verse 9 “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.”, verse 11 “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” and verse 105 “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” God’s Word has the blueprint for living that needs faith, prayer and constant application to our daily lives. As we struggle in our daily walk, we can look to a future without the presence of sin as described in Revelation 21:3-4 “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

As we wait and live, we know we have value and purpose in a life with Jesus. He has work for us to do and others to tell of His great love and redemption. What verse can you share with someone this week to bring them hope?

Perhaps they are discouraged with the struggles of life.… John 14:27 “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.” or Isaiah 26:3-4 “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.4 Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.”

Perhaps they have struggles the lack of basic provisions of life…Philippians 4:19 “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”, Nahum 1:7 “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.” Luke 6:38 “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

Perhaps they need forgiveness….Isaiah 1:18-20 “Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet,
they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson,
they shall be like wool. 19 If you are willing and obedient,
you will eat the good things of the land; 20 but if you resist and rebel,
you will be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.

Perhaps they need courage and assurance… Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” and 2 Corinthians 12:9 “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

God’s Word is filled with wisdom waiting for you to discover and apply it to your life. God’s Word is a wonderful tool to use to help others and ourselves as we all struggle with our culture.
Linda

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