January 10th, 2025
by Dalton Jenkins
by Dalton Jenkins
Is There Not a Cause? A Call to Action for 2025
As we stand on the brink of a new year, the message delivered in our recent sermon challenges us to reflect on our purpose and commitment to spreading the Gospel. The story of David and Goliath serves as a powerful backdrop, urging us to rise and take action in the face of adversity. This summary will guide you through the key points of the sermon, helping you understand the importance of getting involved and proclaiming the good news of salvation.
The Story of David and Goliath: A Lesson in Courage
Why Did David Confront Goliath?
David, a young shepherd boy, was sent by his father to check on his brothers on the battlefield. Upon arrival, he witnessed the Philistine giant Goliath mocking the Israelites and their God. David's spirit was troubled, and he felt compelled to act. His motivation was not personal glory or reward but a deep sense of duty to defend the honor of God.
What Can We Learn from David's Boldness?
David's courage in confronting Goliath teaches us that when we are called by God, we cannot sit idly by while His name is desecrated. We must be willing to stand up and declare, "Is there not a cause?" Just as David was motivated by his love for God, we too must be driven by our faith to take action and spread the Gospel.
The Call to Get Involved in 2025
Why Should We Get Involved?
As we enter 2025, we must choose between getting involved and sitting on the sidelines. Jesus's return is imminent, and we must seize every opportunity to share the good news of salvation. Our motivation should be rooted in our love for God and our desire to fulfill His call.
How Can We Get Involved?
Proclaim the Gospel: Just as David declared his faith, we must boldly share the message of salvation with those around us.
Stand in the Gap: Be willing to take action and fill the roles that God has called us to, without waiting for others to step up.
Live Out Our Faith: Our actions should reflect our faith, demonstrating God's love and mercy in our daily lives.
Biblical Encouragement for the Journey Ahead
What Does the Bible Say About Courage and Faith?
How Can We Apply These Verses to Our Lives?
These verses remind us that God's presence and support are with us as we step out in faith. We can face the challenges of 2025 with confidence, knowing that God will never leave us nor forsake us.
Life Application
How Can We Put This Message into Action?
As we transition into 2025, let us commit to honoring God and spreading the Gospel with urgency, courage, and faith. Here are a few questions to reflect on:
What cause do you feel compelled to take up in the coming year?
How will you prioritize honoring God and spreading the Gospel in your daily life?
What steps can you take to get involved and make a difference in your community?
A Challenge for the Week
This week, challenge yourself to identify one specific way you can get involved in spreading the Gospel. Whether it's volunteering at your church, sharing your faith with a friend, or starting a new ministry, take that first step and trust that God will guide you.
As we enter 2025, let us be motivated by our faith, justified by God's call, and confident in His presence. Together, we can make a difference and proclaim the good news of salvation to all.
The Story of David and Goliath: A Lesson in Courage
Why Did David Confront Goliath?
David, a young shepherd boy, was sent by his father to check on his brothers on the battlefield. Upon arrival, he witnessed the Philistine giant Goliath mocking the Israelites and their God. David's spirit was troubled, and he felt compelled to act. His motivation was not personal glory or reward but a deep sense of duty to defend the honor of God.
What Can We Learn from David's Boldness?
David's courage in confronting Goliath teaches us that when we are called by God, we cannot sit idly by while His name is desecrated. We must be willing to stand up and declare, "Is there not a cause?" Just as David was motivated by his love for God, we too must be driven by our faith to take action and spread the Gospel.
The Call to Get Involved in 2025
Why Should We Get Involved?
As we enter 2025, we must choose between getting involved and sitting on the sidelines. Jesus's return is imminent, and we must seize every opportunity to share the good news of salvation. Our motivation should be rooted in our love for God and our desire to fulfill His call.
How Can We Get Involved?
Proclaim the Gospel: Just as David declared his faith, we must boldly share the message of salvation with those around us.
Stand in the Gap: Be willing to take action and fill the roles that God has called us to, without waiting for others to step up.
Live Out Our Faith: Our actions should reflect our faith, demonstrating God's love and mercy in our daily lives.
Biblical Encouragement for the Journey Ahead
What Does the Bible Say About Courage and Faith?
How Can We Apply These Verses to Our Lives?
These verses remind us that God's presence and support are with us as we step out in faith. We can face the challenges of 2025 with confidence, knowing that God will never leave us nor forsake us.
Life Application
How Can We Put This Message into Action?
As we transition into 2025, let us commit to honoring God and spreading the Gospel with urgency, courage, and faith. Here are a few questions to reflect on:
What cause do you feel compelled to take up in the coming year?
How will you prioritize honoring God and spreading the Gospel in your daily life?
What steps can you take to get involved and make a difference in your community?
A Challenge for the Week
This week, challenge yourself to identify one specific way you can get involved in spreading the Gospel. Whether it's volunteering at your church, sharing your faith with a friend, or starting a new ministry, take that first step and trust that God will guide you.
As we enter 2025, let us be motivated by our faith, justified by God's call, and confident in His presence. Together, we can make a difference and proclaim the good news of salvation to all.
Devotion
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from the transcription:
Day 1: Answering God's Call
Reading: Isaiah 6:1-8
Devotional: Just as Isaiah responded to God's call with "Here am I, send me," we are challenged to be ready and willing to serve God's purpose. The sermon reminds us that we should declare, "I am here. I'm not going to sit. I'm not going to look for somebody else." Reflect on areas in your life where God might be calling you to step up. Are there opportunities for service or witness that you've been hesitant to embrace? Remember, God doesn't call the equipped; He equips the called. Pray for the courage to say "Yes" to God's call in your life, no matter how daunting it may seem.
Day 2: Courage in the Face of Giants
Reading: 1 Samuel 17:32-37, 45-47
Devotional: David's courage against Goliath wasn't born from self-confidence, but from his unwavering faith in God. The sermon asks, "Is there not a cause?" Consider the "giants" in your life - challenges, fears, or obstacles that seem insurmountable. How can you face them with the same faith-filled courage as David? Remember, "The God of heaven's army is fighting for me." Take time to identify one "giant" in your life and commit it to prayer, asking God for the strength and faith to confront it in His name.
Day 3: Living Out Active Faith
Reading: James 2:14-26
Devotional: James teaches us that faith without works is dead. The sermon emphasizes this, stating, "We're going out not just declaring I got faith but we're going out putting faith into action." Reflect on how your faith is manifesting in your daily life. Are there areas where your actions don't align with your beliefs? Choose one practical way to demonstrate your faith today, whether it's through an act of kindness, sharing your testimony, or serving in your community. Remember, our actions are a powerful testimony to the living faith within us.
Day 4: God's Unfailing Presence
Reading: Joshua 1:1-9
Devotional: The assurance of God's presence is a recurring theme in Scripture and in the sermon. "Fear not, for the Lord your God will go before you." In what areas of your life do you need to be reminded of God's constant presence? Perhaps you're facing uncertainty, loneliness, or a difficult decision. Meditate on the promise that God is with you "wherever you go." How does this change your perspective on your current circumstances? Take time to journal about moments when you've felt God's presence strongly, and let these memories strengthen your faith for the challenges ahead.
Day 5: Embracing God's Purpose
Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10
Devotional: Paul reminds us that we are God's workmanship, created for good works that He prepared in advance for us. The sermon echoes this: "God has a plan for your life. 2025 is not an accident, 2025 is a divine plan by God and you must walk in it." As you stand on the brink of a new year, consider God's purpose for your life. What gifts and passions has He given you? How might these align with His kingdom work? Pray for clarity and direction, and commit to taking steps towards fulfilling God's purpose for you. Remember, you are uniquely created and positioned for such a time as this.
Day 1: Answering God's Call
Reading: Isaiah 6:1-8
Devotional: Just as Isaiah responded to God's call with "Here am I, send me," we are challenged to be ready and willing to serve God's purpose. The sermon reminds us that we should declare, "I am here. I'm not going to sit. I'm not going to look for somebody else." Reflect on areas in your life where God might be calling you to step up. Are there opportunities for service or witness that you've been hesitant to embrace? Remember, God doesn't call the equipped; He equips the called. Pray for the courage to say "Yes" to God's call in your life, no matter how daunting it may seem.
Day 2: Courage in the Face of Giants
Reading: 1 Samuel 17:32-37, 45-47
Devotional: David's courage against Goliath wasn't born from self-confidence, but from his unwavering faith in God. The sermon asks, "Is there not a cause?" Consider the "giants" in your life - challenges, fears, or obstacles that seem insurmountable. How can you face them with the same faith-filled courage as David? Remember, "The God of heaven's army is fighting for me." Take time to identify one "giant" in your life and commit it to prayer, asking God for the strength and faith to confront it in His name.
Day 3: Living Out Active Faith
Reading: James 2:14-26
Devotional: James teaches us that faith without works is dead. The sermon emphasizes this, stating, "We're going out not just declaring I got faith but we're going out putting faith into action." Reflect on how your faith is manifesting in your daily life. Are there areas where your actions don't align with your beliefs? Choose one practical way to demonstrate your faith today, whether it's through an act of kindness, sharing your testimony, or serving in your community. Remember, our actions are a powerful testimony to the living faith within us.
Day 4: God's Unfailing Presence
Reading: Joshua 1:1-9
Devotional: The assurance of God's presence is a recurring theme in Scripture and in the sermon. "Fear not, for the Lord your God will go before you." In what areas of your life do you need to be reminded of God's constant presence? Perhaps you're facing uncertainty, loneliness, or a difficult decision. Meditate on the promise that God is with you "wherever you go." How does this change your perspective on your current circumstances? Take time to journal about moments when you've felt God's presence strongly, and let these memories strengthen your faith for the challenges ahead.
Day 5: Embracing God's Purpose
Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10
Devotional: Paul reminds us that we are God's workmanship, created for good works that He prepared in advance for us. The sermon echoes this: "God has a plan for your life. 2025 is not an accident, 2025 is a divine plan by God and you must walk in it." As you stand on the brink of a new year, consider God's purpose for your life. What gifts and passions has He given you? How might these align with His kingdom work? Pray for clarity and direction, and commit to taking steps towards fulfilling God's purpose for you. Remember, you are uniquely created and positioned for such a time as this.
Discussion Questions
Here's a small group guide based on the sermon transcription:
Small Group Guide: "Is There Not a Cause?"
Opening Prayer: Begin the session with a prayer, asking God for guidance and insight as you discuss the sermon.
Key Takeaways:
1. We are called to actively engage in God's work, not sit on the sidelines.
2. Our motivation should come from a deep love for God and His people.
3. God empowers believers to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
4. We enter 2025 with the assurance that God is with us in all circumstances.
5. Faith without action is dead; we must put our faith into practice.
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon uses David's confrontation with Goliath as an example. What "giants" do you feel called to face in your own life or community?
2. How does the question "Is there not a cause?" challenge you personally as we enter 2025?
3. The speaker emphasized that we should say "I am here" when God calls. In what areas of your life or ministry do you need to step up and say "I am here"?
4. Discuss the balance between faith and action. How can we ensure our faith is leading to tangible outcomes in our lives and communities?
5. The sermon mentions several Bible verses about God's presence and support. Which of these verses resonates most with you and why?
6. How can we stay motivated to spread the gospel, even when faced with challenges or discouragement?
7. What does it mean to you to "walk humbly with your God" (Micah 6:8) in the context of active ministry?
Practical Applications:
1. Identify one specific area where you feel God is calling you to get involved in 2025. Share with the group and commit to taking a first step this week.
2. Create a personal mission statement for 2025 that reflects your commitment to honoring God and spreading the gospel.
3. Choose one of the Bible verses mentioned in the sermon to memorize and meditate on throughout the week.
4. Pair up with another group member to pray for each other's "giants" and encourage one another in facing them.
5. As a group, brainstorm practical ways to put your faith into action in your local community. Choose one idea to implement together in the coming month.
Closing Prayer: End the session by praying for courage, strength, and God's guidance as you step into 2025 with renewed purpose and commitment.
Small Group Guide: "Is There Not a Cause?"
Opening Prayer: Begin the session with a prayer, asking God for guidance and insight as you discuss the sermon.
Key Takeaways:
1. We are called to actively engage in God's work, not sit on the sidelines.
2. Our motivation should come from a deep love for God and His people.
3. God empowers believers to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
4. We enter 2025 with the assurance that God is with us in all circumstances.
5. Faith without action is dead; we must put our faith into practice.
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon uses David's confrontation with Goliath as an example. What "giants" do you feel called to face in your own life or community?
2. How does the question "Is there not a cause?" challenge you personally as we enter 2025?
3. The speaker emphasized that we should say "I am here" when God calls. In what areas of your life or ministry do you need to step up and say "I am here"?
4. Discuss the balance between faith and action. How can we ensure our faith is leading to tangible outcomes in our lives and communities?
5. The sermon mentions several Bible verses about God's presence and support. Which of these verses resonates most with you and why?
6. How can we stay motivated to spread the gospel, even when faced with challenges or discouragement?
7. What does it mean to you to "walk humbly with your God" (Micah 6:8) in the context of active ministry?
Practical Applications:
1. Identify one specific area where you feel God is calling you to get involved in 2025. Share with the group and commit to taking a first step this week.
2. Create a personal mission statement for 2025 that reflects your commitment to honoring God and spreading the gospel.
3. Choose one of the Bible verses mentioned in the sermon to memorize and meditate on throughout the week.
4. Pair up with another group member to pray for each other's "giants" and encourage one another in facing them.
5. As a group, brainstorm practical ways to put your faith into action in your local community. Choose one idea to implement together in the coming month.
Closing Prayer: End the session by praying for courage, strength, and God's guidance as you step into 2025 with renewed purpose and commitment.
Bible References
Here are the scripture references mentioned or alluded to in the sermon:
1. 1 Samuel 17:29 - "Is there not a cause?" (This is the central theme of the sermon)
2. Deuteronomy 31:6 - "So be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid and do not panic before them for the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you."
3. Colossians 3:23-24 - "And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ."
4. Isaiah 6:8 - "Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: 'Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us?' Then I said, 'Here am I! Send me.'"
5. Micah 6:8 - "He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?"
6. James 2:14-17 - Discussion on faith without works being dead
7. Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."
8. Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission
9. Joshua 1:9 - "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
10. Romans 8:31 - "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
11. Psalm 91:11-12 - Alluded to with "He will give His angels charge to keep you, Lest you dash your foot against a stone."
While not explicitly mentioned, the following verses align with the main themes discussed:
12. 2 Timothy 1:7 - "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."
13. Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
14. 1 Corinthians 15:58 - "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."
1. 1 Samuel 17:29 - "Is there not a cause?" (This is the central theme of the sermon)
2. Deuteronomy 31:6 - "So be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid and do not panic before them for the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you."
3. Colossians 3:23-24 - "And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ."
4. Isaiah 6:8 - "Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: 'Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us?' Then I said, 'Here am I! Send me.'"
5. Micah 6:8 - "He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?"
6. James 2:14-17 - Discussion on faith without works being dead
7. Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."
8. Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission
9. Joshua 1:9 - "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
10. Romans 8:31 - "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
11. Psalm 91:11-12 - Alluded to with "He will give His angels charge to keep you, Lest you dash your foot against a stone."
While not explicitly mentioned, the following verses align with the main themes discussed:
12. 2 Timothy 1:7 - "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."
13. Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
14. 1 Corinthians 15:58 - "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."
Dalton Jenkins
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