Point of Grace Online Worship - August 2, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 8.2.20

Sermon Notes - “Psalms – Ancient Prayers for Unprecedented Times!”

In Psalm 42, the psalmist helps me navigate the tender terrain of my soul because he knows that,

“Knowing What Matters to My Soul Lets My Soul Matter”

1 As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. 2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? 3 My tears have been my food day and night, while it is said to me all day long, “Where is your God?” 4 These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go to the house of God under the protection of the Mighty One with shouts of joy and praise among the festive throng. 5 Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

What Matters to my soul?

- My soul thirsts. ……………… My Soul thirsts for the present God. (vs.1-2)

- My soul has questions? ……………… My soul needs to be questioned? (vs. 3-5)

- My soul needs grace from me. “Help” to hope and “yet” to praise. (vs. 5)

6 My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember you from the land of the Jordan, the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar. 7 Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me. 8 By day the Lord (Yahweh) directs his love, at night his song is with me— a prayer to the God of my life.

What Matters to my soul?

- My soul gets the grace of “therefore I will remember” even when downcast. (vs.6)

- My soul gets cascading waterfalls of deep grace overwhelming all thirst. (vs.7)

The Banias Waterfall – Hermon Range, Northern Israel

- My soul gets Yahweh (Jesus), His personal love, a song to sing and prayer to pray. (vs.8)

9 I say to God my Rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?” 10 My bones suffer mortal agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, “Where is your God?” 11 Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

What Matters to my soul?

- My soul gets to question my God and lament my situation while trusting Him as my Rock. (vs.9-10)

- My soul gets to “not” stay there but return to hope and praise. (vs.11)

Knowing What Matters to My Soul Lets My Soul Matter!

When my soul begins to matter to me like it matters to Jesus, then I will have been loved and lead a little further into the meaningful life He intends for me.

Homework: Read and pray Psalm 42 every day this week! (Hint: Follow the reading schedule in the notes below.)

Join in on “After Thoughts” Thursday at 7 pm – Join in through Facebook Live or go to www.pog.church/live to view.

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

These resources which will help you “Pray Psalm 42” and “Let Your Soul Matter” this week.

A new book recommendation this week– “Soul-keeping: Caring for the most important part of you.” – John Ortberg

The Scripture Reading schedule for this week is somewhat unique. Our goal is to meditate on Psalm 42 all week. I encourage you to read the entire Psalm every day and then take some additional focus time on just a few verses each day. Repetition is your friend. Remember you are not necessarily looking for new information from the Psalm once you understand it. Repeatedly returning to the Psalm each day allows the Holy Spirit to use the Psalm to minister to you, to speak to you, to reveal you to you, and God to you. Some additional scripture references are cited on some days if you would like to do further reading. If the schedule below is helpful, please use it. If it is not, then work through the Psalm at your own pace.

Mon – Psalm 42… with a special emphasis on vs. 1-3 (John 4:7-14) Tue – Psalm 42 … with a special emphasis on vs. 4-5 (John 7:37-44) Wed – Psalm 42 … with a special emphasis on vs. 6-7 (Ephesians 3:14-19) Thu – Psalm 42 … with a special emphasis on vs. 8 (1 John 3:1, 4:9-12) Fri – Psalm 42 … with a special emphasis on vs. 9-11 Sat - Psalm 42 and 43 (It is thought by most scholars that Psalm 43 is not a separate psalm but the final stanza of 42.)

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.

Songs of Jesus by Timothy Keller excellent daily devotional based on the Psalms

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - These daily devotions are excellent encouragement to live by the Spirit each day.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Psalms.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Point of Grace Online Worship - July 26, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 7.26.20

Sermon Notes - “Psalms – Ancient Prayers for Unprecedented Times!”

1 I will extol the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. 2 I will glory in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. 3 Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together.

4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. 5 Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. 6 This poor man called, and the LORD heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles. 7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.

Psalm 34 – Invitation to Encouragement

We need encouragement and the humility to not fight what we need!

Helps:

- Psalm 34 is a Hebrew Acrostic Poem

- The Superscription: “Of David. When he pretended to be insane before Abimelek, who drove him away, and he left.

- Notice how vs. 6 deals with “shame”. Shame is a debilitating, encouragement zapping posture of the heart relieved only through receiving forgiveness.

5 Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.

- What about “fear”? There seems to be a good, healthy kind as well as a debilitating, life-destroying kind! 4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. 7 The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.

-“fear of the Lord” – A healthy respect and awe born out of humility, love and trust that draws one closer!

“fear of whatever” – A debilitating fright or terror born out of facing overwhelming opposition alone.

Vs. 8-23 – Be encouraged: “Life is better with Yahweh (Jesus) … It just is!”

8 Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. 9 Fear the Lord, you his holy people, for those who fear him lack nothing. 10 The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. 11 Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. 12 Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, 13 keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies. 14 Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.

15 The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry; 16 but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to blot out their name from the earth. 17 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. 18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

19 The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all; 20 he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken.

21 Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned. 22 The Lord will rescue his servants; no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.

How can I be a good receiver of the encouragement God has for me?

Homework: Read and pray Psalm 34 every day this week! (Hint: Follow the reading schedule in the notes below.)

Join in on “After Thoughts” Thursday at 7 pm – Facebook Live or go to www.pog.church/live to view.

Resources which will help you “Pray Psalm 34” this week.

The Scripture Reading schedule for this week is somewhat unique. Our goal is to meditate on Psalm 34 all week taking in small new portion of the Psalm as we go. The meditation hints below may help you. The following suggested daily rhythm reflects adding in more of the Psalm each day meditating specifically on the new portion of the Psalm for that day. Journaling where God leads you with each new portion what He says to you is invaluable as you meditate

Mon – Psalm 34:1-3 Tue – Psalm 34:1-3 and 4-7 specifically Wed – Psalm 34: 1-7 and 8-10 specifically Thu – Psalm 34: 1-10 and 11-16 specifically Fri – Psalm 34:1-16 and 17-22 specifically Sat - Psalm 34: 1-22

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.

Songs of Jesus by Timothy Keller excellent daily devotional based on the Psalms

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - These daily devotions are excellent encouragement to live by the Spirit each day.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Psalms.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Point of Grace Online Worship - July 19, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 7.19.20

Sermon Notes - “Psalms – Ancient Prayers for Unprecedented Times!”

The Psalms are

ancient

poetic

prayers

perfect for us to use today.

Psalm 27

(1-6)

The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? 2 When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall. 3 Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.

We see a rhythm emerging in vs. 1-6 to help us pray with the Psalmist.

The Lord (Jesus) is …

Therefore I …

Rehearsing the reality of my God into my life is life for me!

4 One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. 5 For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock. 6 Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord.

Soaking in the “The Lord is …” truth ignites the desire for His presence…

... but the psalmist is still struggling within and honest about it. (7-12)

7 Hear my voice when I call, Lord; be merciful to me and answer me. 8 To you, O my heart, He has said, “Seek My face!” Your face, Lord, I will seek. 9 Do not hide your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; you have been my helper. Do not reject me or forsake me, God my Savior. 10 Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me. 11 Teach me your way, Lord; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors. 12 Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, spouting malicious accusations.

The Lord is …

Therefore I …

Even when … (this is the point we saw examples of opposing emotions within the psalmist – within us)

13 I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. 14 Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.

The Lord is …

Therefore I …

Even when …

The Lord still is …

Therefore I still …

Homework: Read and pray Psalm 27 every day this week! (Hint: Follow the reading schedule in the notes.)

Join in on “After Thoughts” Thursday at 7 pm – Facebook Live or go to www.pog.church/live to view.

Resources which will help you “pray the Psalms” this week.

The Scripture Reading schedule for this week is somewhat unique. Our goal is to meditate on Psalm 27 all week taking small portions as we go. The meditation hints below may help you. The following is a suggested daily rhythm.

- Read all of Psalm 27 each day.

- Then slowly reread verse 1, the designated verses for the day, then verse 14. Use the meditation hints below as a help. (Solitude, Scripture, Prayer, Finish)

Mon – Psalm 27: 1, 2-3, 14 Tue – Psalm 27: 1, 4-6, 14 Wed – Psalm 27: 1, 7-8, 14 Thur –Psalm 27:1, 9-10, 14 Fri – Psalm 27:1, 11-13,14 Sat - Psalm 27:1-14

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.

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - These daily devotions are excellent encouragement to live by the Spirit each day.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Psalms.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Point of Grace Online Worship - July 12, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 7.12.20 Sermon Notes - “His Present is His Presence – The Dance!”

Galatians 5 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

Remember these are “fruits” of a restored relationship (a dance) with God who lives in me by His Spirit.

Faithfulness – being “true” to another in relationship- God, the foundation is the word Faith.

Faithfulness – Full of Faith-ness …… and the lifestyle that results.

Gentleness – not raucous or arrogant, mild friendliness, non-violent yet not weak, safe, grounded in humility.

Philippians 2 3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Matthew 11 28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 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.

Self-control – the opposite of uncontrolled, loose, unboundaried living which seeks to indulge humanities limitless appetites.

Self-control – not so much the “self” more in control but rather the “self” needing to be controlled.

Galatians 5 16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh (sinful self). 17 For the (sinful self) desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the (sinful self). They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

19 The acts of the (sinful self) are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

When my “self” is controlled and not in control then “the true me, the new me, the Spirit in me” shines.

Life in step with the Spirit means the Spirit takes the lead. The sinful self doesn’t like that.

The “Spirit in me” knows life comes from God so constant and consistent “surrender of self” and “restoration and refilling” from God is vital.

The true me is made for Full of Faith-ness so my faith needs constant filling!

Tools for living this way!

Come Holy Spirit. Fill me afresh. I Surrender myself and my agenda and -Notice what is happening in surrender. Who is losing control? -Surrender of self is an act of repentance because it doesn’t come naturally. I Receive You and Your agenda for and - I receive the Holy Spirit’s as leader and His agenda for me. The Spirit in me is in charge. - Rehearsing and aligning myself with Him and His truth is life giving. I will Act like it! - I commit to responding to the Spirit in me and not my sinful self. - I celebrate when I see the fruit of the Spirit in my life and return to Him by grace when I don’t.

Join in on “After Thoughts” Thursday at 7 pm – Facebook Live or go to www.pog.church to view.

Resources which will help you “walk in the Spirit bearing His fruit of faithfulness, gentleness, self control” in your life!

Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Galatians 5:16-24 (Notice the Dance!) Tue – Philippians 2:1-11 (Gentleness with humility but without weakness) Wed – Matthew 11:25-30 (Is Jesus a safe person for you?) Thurs – Hebrews 3:1-6 (Notice Jesus as the Faithful one) Fri – Ephesians 4:13-20 Sat - Psalm 73:21-28

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.

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - These daily devotions are excellent encouragement to live by the Spirit each day.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Wildatheart.org website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcasts, etc.

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Defiant Joy by Stasi Eldredge

Point of Grace Online Worship - July 5, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 7.5.20

Sermon Notes - “His Present is His Presence – A Game Changer!”

Galatians 5 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

Patience - forbearance, a slow fuse, longsuffering, replaces outbursts of temper or rage

Kindness - saving grace, whereas forbearance is passive love Kindness if active love,

Goodness - generosity, moral goodness exhibited

So needed?

Ephesians 2 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith

Titus 3 3 At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.

What about Jesus?

Patience – Kindness – Goodness is God’s nature therefore when He lives in us by His Spirit He brings about this kind of fruit. We become more of who we were meant to be.

Colossians 3 12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

The meaningful life Christ intends means I am a conduit of kindness!

Why is Patience and Kindness so hard?

Surrender

Romans 2 4 Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?

The sinful self uses God’s kindness as license …. The saved self is moved by kindness to repentance.

“Kindness is often abused …… but it will also breakthrough!”

We can have “agreements” with untruth about kindness.

“If I am kind all the time I can’t be honest or truthful”

“Kindness doesn’t get things done.”

“Being kind all the time is too hard…. Don’t have time for that!”

“I just say it like it is.”

“It’s just the way I am.”

Great Tools to Foster Kindness

- Communication – Let Kindness Reign!

- Recognition and Appreciation – Let Kindness Win!

Can you imagine the possibilities for the kingdom if we are kind?

Come Holy Spirit. Fill me afresh. I Surrender myself and my agenda and - I get to let go of my “unkind normals” and lies surrendering to the Spirit of kindness and patience. Letting go of control leaves room for kindness even when kindness gets abused. I Receive You and Your agenda for and - I receive the Holy Spirit’s agenda for me which includes all the hope and possibilities of patience, kindness and goodness. I will Act like it! - I can respond to the Spirit in me by being helpful and graceful in my communication while recognizing and appreciating kindness when I see it.

Join in on “After Thoughts” Thursday at 7 pm – Facebook Live or go to www.pog.church to view.

Resources which will help you “walk in the Spirit bearing His fruit of patience, kindness, goodness” in your life!

A new resource recommended last couple weeks which I again encourage this week is:

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Titus 3:1-8 (so good) Tue – Colossians 3:12-17 (One of my favs) Wed – John 8:1-11 (Jesus styled kindness…. Wow!) Thu – John 9:1-12 (Read the chapter if you can…. Such kindness of Jesus contrasted with human pettiness.) Fri – Matthew 5:48 (Jesus calls to be radically kind when mistreated even when taking offense is in style.) Sat - Psalm 19

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.

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - These daily devotions are excellent encouragement to live by the Spirit each day.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer

Point of Grace Online Worship - June 28, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 6.28.20 Sermon Notes “His Present is His Presence – When I get just what I need!”

Galatians 5 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

PEACE – Shalom – Wellbeing – Salvation – Wholeness The Peace of the Lord

John 14 25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 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.

Jesus unplugs our need for Peace (our idea and our experience) from life’s circumstances and plugs us into Him as the source of Peace.

John 15 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

John 16 33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

The framework for understanding our circumstances as being the source of our PEACE is something that comes very naturally.

Galatians 5 16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is … … …

Philippians 4 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Our role is not to produce peace but receive the presence of Jesus by His Spirit and act like He and His promises are real.

What might that look like?

Philippians 4 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Our Role: Turn our anxieties into prayers saturated with thanksgiving.

God’s Role: Peace of divine origin is given that will “guard” our heart and mind!

Philippians 4:6-7 (The Message) Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

Matthew 6 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink;… 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Come Holy Spirit. Fill me afresh. I Surrender myself and my agenda and - I get to turn my anxieties and concerns into prayers and open myself up to Jesus and His care for me. I Receive You and Your agenda for and - I receive peace … the care and wellbeing of my Father in heaven. I will Act like it! - I get to allow myself to be at peace as this fruit grows! I do not have to be addicted to anxiety.

Join in on “After Thoughts” Thursday at 7 pm – Facebook Live or go to www.pog.church to view.

Resources which will help you “walk in the Spirit bearing His fruit of Peace” in your life!

A new resource recommended last week which I again encourage this week is:

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – John 14:15-27 Tues – John 16:29-33 Wed – Philippians 4:4-9 Thu – Matthew 6:25-34 Fri – Romans 12:7-13 Sat - Psalm 34:1-14

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.

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - These daily devotions are excellent encouragement to live by the Spirit each day.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - June 21, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 6.21.20 Sermon Notes - “His Present is His Presence – What a Difference!”

Galatians 5 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

JOY – a taste of Eden

What is Joy?

The Spirit of God actually produces the fruit of “Joy” in my life as I live under Him.

Galatians 5 16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is … … …

“Joy is a fruit of a right relationship with God rather than a result of right circumstances in life.”

- Comfort, happiness, excitement etc. are much more circumstantial – Joy is foundational.

-Joy is not extinguished by suffering, discomfort or loss but shines there.

Philippians 4 4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!....... 10 I rejoiced greatly in the Lord

Acts 16 19 When her owners realized that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to face the authorities. 20 They brought them before the magistrates and said, “These men are Jews, and are throwing our city into an uproar 21 by advocating customs unlawful for us Romans to accept or practice.” 22 The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods. 23 After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. 24 When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. 25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose. 27 The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!” 29 The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” 32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. 33 At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized. 34 The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole household.

Hebrews 12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

I get to join the Spirit and His fruit-bearing work in my life as I celebrate the Goodness of God in all circumstances.

God is Good … … … even when life is not!

Come Holy Spirit. Fill me afresh. I Surrender myself and my agenda and - I repent and let go of “giving up” on JOY or settling for cheap substitutes. I Receive You and Your agenda for and - I receive JOY as mine to experience and share as a fruit of You Jesus living in me. You are good! I will Act like it! - I get to join You, Holy Spirit, and not fight You as You do your fruit-bearing work in my life!

Join in on “After Thoughts” Thursday at 7 pm – Facebook Live or go to www.pog.church to view.

Resources which will help you “walk in the Spirit bearing His fruit of Joy” in your life!

A new resource I am particularly encouraging this week is this book:

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Nehemiah 8:9-12 Tues – Philippians 4:4-9 Wed – Philippians 1:3-11 Thu – Hebrews 12:1-13 Fri – John 15:5-11 Sat - 1st Thessalonians 5:16-28

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.

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - These daily devotions are excellent encouragement to live by the Spirit each day.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - June 14, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 6.14.20

Sermon Notes - “His Present is His Presence – And I Really Need Him!”

When life’s challenges get too big and too hard we come to the end of our self.

When we “come to the end of our self” …… Jesus is there.

His Presence by His Spirit is welcomed in a desperate heart for the

The Connection He makes possible for us, Romans 8 1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…… 14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. 15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to son ship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children…. 26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. 27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

The Counsel He brings to us, John 14 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. John 16 13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.

The Fruit He bears through us. Galatians 5 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Love is a “fruit” of the Holy Spirit’s reign in my life.

• I get to surrender to Him, welcome and celebrate Him.

• I get to “crucify” the opponents of love in my life like pride, arrogance, fear …

• And nurture the marks of love in my life like humility, faith, vulnerability.

Come Holy Spirit. Fill me afresh. I Surrender myself and my agenda and - Repentance and humility keep pride and fear at bay I Receive You and Your agenda and - Grace, forgiveness, truth, able-to-do-ness, life, confidence, peace, joy I will Act like it!

Resources which will help you “walk in the Spirit” everyday!

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Romans 8:1,12-17 Tues – Romans 8:22-28 Wed – John 14:15-27 Thu – John 16:7-15 Fri – Galatians 5:13-26 Sat - Psalm 148

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.

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - These daily devotions are excellent encouragement to live by the Spirit each day.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)