Point of Grace Online Worship 10.25.20
Sermon Notes - “Jesus, Can I thrive in my anxious world?” - Casting Off Anxiety
How are you handling the “anxiousness” in you and around you?
Jesus, can You help? … … … can I thrive?
“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” -Jesus- (from Matthew 11:28-30)
Jesus invites us to come to “Him” and receive His “yoke” – His way of carrying the loads of life!
The apostle Peter encourages us in the art of wearing the Jesus Yoke!
1 Peter 5 5“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
Three wonderful surprises from Peter about wearing the Jesus yoke to carry the loads of life!
1. Humility “I was surprised at the connection between ‘anxiety/worry’ and ‘pride’!” 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.
The parable of Rick Steve’s suitcase!
2. I get to cast anxiety on God 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
o I join Jesus in filtering through my anxiety ……… remember “he cares for you”. Jesus, what is my loving responsibility as I cast off my anxiety? “Not my circus not my monkeys!” “I am responsible to you but not for you” “I must own my role God will own results!” “Seek Jesus’ reign over my life and do the next right thing.” “Jesus, I give this _____ to You. But please take care of it, it’s very special to me!”
o Try “Benevolent Detachment” as a rhythm of life. “One Minute Pause App” God, I give everyone and everything to You! (Jesus, what do I need to let go of?) Father, Jesus and Holy Spirit, heal my union with You. (Jesus, You are the vine I am the branch if I remain in You and You in me I will bear much fruit. John 15 )
I need more of you God. Holy Spirit fill me afresh! (Jesus, fill me to the measure of all the fullness of God. Eph. 3) Now I get to do the next right thing!
3. My anxious world is the devil’s playground! “8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, “
How is Jesus helping me thrive in my anxious world?
How is He inviting me to change my thinking? How is He inviting me to change my doing?
Join in on “After Thoughts” Thursday at 7 pm – Go to www.pog.church/live to view or through Facebook or YouTube.
Afterthoughts is a live interactive internet conversation about the topic of this week’s sermon. We would love for you to join in to make your contribution to the conversation, share your thoughts and ask your question.
Resources for this Week
Here are some suggested readings for each day of the week which help dive deeper into coming to Jesus and His way for thriving in this anxious world. The Meditation Hints below may help you listen and receive all God has for you.
Mon – Matthew 11:25-30 Tue – 1 Peter 5:1-11 Wed – James 4:4-10 Thu – John 15:1-11 Fri – John 17: 20-26 Sat - Psalm 55 (notice vs. 22)
Meditation Hints:
Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”
Scripture – Read the scripture slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.
Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart. Begin to own the “word of God” being revealed to you.
Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.
Helps: “Sermon Resources” from pog.church
The Pause App from your app store
“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge
“The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry” by John Mark Comer
“Emotionally Healthy Spirituality” by Pete Scazzero
“Restoration Year – A 365 Day Devotional” by John Eldredge