This is the sermonette I used in last week's FCA meeting.
Narrative:
Spring Break is just
around the corner. I think it’s safe to say that many of us our counting down
the days, because we know the week will hold time for family, naps, sleeping
in, a break from classes, a break from workouts and everything else that’s
exciting and relaxing. Some of us may also have already started a similar
countdown til the end of the semester… there is so much to be excited for in
the summer. When I was in college, and even still today, I rely on the break
and associated activities to re-energize me. As you start the countdown, how
many of you think, 'If I can just make it through the next 5 days, I will be fine.'
Take a step back.
Think about what we’re relying on. If we’re just making it, we’re relying on
the upcoming break or activities to carry us through the week. And, therefore,
we are not relying on the Lord. So, basically, we’re trusting in the upcoming
sleep, family visits, break from school, and other relaxing and fun activities
planned MORE THAN we’re trusting in God.
So… what’s wrong
with this?! God wants our full attention and for us to completely trust in
Him—to understand that He alone can bring meaning to our lives. We don’t have
to rely on an activity or circumstances; we can simply “get by” with Him alone.
In John 14:1, Jesus says, “Do not let your
hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust alone in me.” He tells us we don’t have
to look to outside sources to provide our purpose and comfort.
There are two
important promises from God we need to keep in mind…
1.) HE IS ALWAYS
WITH US.
In Jeremiah 29:11, we are reminded that God promises that He will be with us through all
things and that He has a plan for us. No matter how hard our situations are
or what we are going through, God is there, always guiding us. And, in Isaiah 43:2, He tells us he will guide us and will not leave us when things get hard
by saying, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and
when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk
through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
When we feel as if we
need to just make it to the next thing, when we have to make difficult decisions,
and in other trying times, God is with us and He has a perfect plan us. All you
have to do is trust in Him, which brings the 2nd important promise…
2.) HE CAN BE
TRUSTED.
We can trust God
because He never lies. Never. Numbers
23:19 says, “God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that
he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and
not fulfill?” Since God never lies, we can trust His Word and that He is our
shepherd and strength.
With Spring Break
upcoming, I thought this week would be a good reminder that we should not being
trying to ‘just make it’ through. We should embrace each day that is gifted to
us and remember that God’s plan for us is perfect.
Discussion
Questions:
1. Have you caught
yourself just trying to make it through til Spring Break or in other situations
or times of the year?
2. What can you do
or do you already actively try to do to better embrace today and thrive in the
moment?
3. Do you have an
example of how you were just trying to make it through, but were reminded that
God was in control and had the perfect plan for you?
Rephrase: How does
this concept of just making it through resonate with you?
