Highest Praise 9am weekend service! Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving Fasting is a spiritual discipline that invites us to seek God's face rather than His hand. It is a practice that humbles us before God, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our lives. When we fast with the right motives, we open ourselves to hear from heaven, and God promises to heal our lives, our churches, and even our nation. The Bible is filled with examples of people who humbled themselves through fasting and prayer, leading to revival and healing across entire lands. James 4:6 reminds us that God gives grace to the humble, and fasting is a way to humble ourselves before Him. It is a sacrifice that costs us something, but it moves the heart of God. As we embark on this 10-day fast, we are called to seek God's face, to know Him more deeply, and to understand His character and promises. This fast is not just about abstaining from food but about feeding our spirits with His Word and presence. There are different types of fasts, such as normal, partial, and rotational fasts. Each person can choose what works best for them, but the key is to approach fasting with a heart that seeks God. It's not about following a formula but about coming to God with sincerity and humility. Even if we falter, God's grace is sufficient to help us continue. Fasting is a time to pray for protection, fulfillment of God's promises, and deliverance from captivity. It is a time to hear God's voice clearly and to see His glory and goodness. As we fast, we are reminded that nothing is higher or stronger than the faith we have in Christ. With even a mustard seed of faith, we can move mountains and see the kingdom of darkness fall. As we enter this fast, let us approach God with our whole hearts, seeking His face and trusting His hand. In doing so, we will experience His transformative power and celebrate the victories He brings into our lives. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Seeking God's Face:** Fasting is about seeking God's face, not just His hand. It is a spiritual discipline that humbles us and opens us to hear from heaven. When we fast with the right motives, God promises to heal our lives and our land. [01:49] 2. **Types of Fasts:** There are various types of fasts, such as normal, partial, and rotational. Each person can choose what works best for them, but the key is to approach fasting with sincerity and humility, not as a formula. [05:38] 3. **Prayer and Protection:** Fasting is a time to pray for protection and fulfillment of God's promises. It is a time to seek deliverance from captivity and to hear God's voice clearly. [18:04] 4. **Faith and Mountains:** With even a mustard seed of faith, we can move mountains and see the kingdom of darkness fall. Fasting strengthens our faith and allows us to see God's power at work in our lives. [24:05] 5. **Approaching God with Heart:** God looks at our hearts, not our formulas. As we fast, let us approach God with sincerity, seeking His face and trusting His hand. In doing so, we will experience His transformative power. [32:51] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [01:49] - The Purpose of Fasting - [03:30] - Humbling Ourselves Before God - [05:38] - Types of Fasts - [10:39] - Attainable Goals in Fasting - [18:04] - Prayer for Protection and Promises - [24:05] - Faith to Move Mountains - [30:37] - Our Position in Christ - [32:12] - The Woman with the Issue of Blood - [32:51] - Approaching God with Heart - [35:42] - Grace Over Formula - [37:13] - God Turns Nothing into Something - [39:40] - Denying the Flesh - [43:50] - Closing Prayer and Invitation

Highest Praise 9am weekend service! Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving In this message, the focus is on the spiritual discipline of fasting and the concept of divine release. Fasting is not about receiving something from God but about drawing closer to Him, breaking down barriers that separate us from His presence. It is a personal journey where one chooses what to fast, ensuring it is something meaningful to them. The act of fasting is a form of obedience that brings us into a deeper sensitivity to God's voice and direction. The theme of release is emphasized as a call to let go of things that hold us back spiritually. Release is about freedom, liberation, and breaking free from constraints that do not support our spiritual growth. It involves accepting God's forgiveness, taking responsibility for our actions, and letting go of past hurts and blame. The message encourages us to stop playing the blame game and to take responsibility for our lives, moving forward with faith rather than being held back by fear rooted in past experiences. The sermon also highlights the importance of divine release, where God intervenes to free us from burdens and stagnation. This release is not just about letting go but also about receiving new blessings and opportunities. It is a call to reposition ourselves spiritually for a supernatural release, trusting that God can bring life to dead situations and expectations. The examples of biblical figures who experienced divine release serve as a reminder that God is capable of breaking generational curses and bringing about transformation in our lives. Ultimately, the message is a call to action, urging us to make this year a year of release by doing our part in obedience to God. It is about believing in God's promise to release us from burdens and to fill us with His blessings, leading to a life of abundance and spiritual growth. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Fasting as a Path to Closeness with God:** Fasting is not about receiving material blessings but about drawing nearer to God. It helps break down barriers between us and God, making us more sensitive to His presence and guidance. This spiritual discipline is a personal journey, where the focus is on what we need to surrender to God to deepen our relationship with Him. [05:27] 2. **The Power of Release:** Release involves letting go of things that constrain us spiritually. It is about freedom from past hurts, blame, and unforgiveness. By accepting God's forgiveness and taking responsibility for our actions, we can move forward in faith, unburdened by the past. This release is essential for spiritual growth and receiving new blessings. [10:05] 3. **Divine Release and Transformation:** God promises to release us from burdens and stagnation, bringing life to dead situations. This divine release is about breaking free from generational curses and experiencing transformation. It requires faith and obedience, trusting that God can bring about change and new opportunities in our lives. [22:49] 4. **Faith Over Fear:** Faith is future-oriented, while fear is rooted in the past. To experience release, we must focus on the future and trust in God's promises. Fear holds us back, but faith propels us forward, allowing us to embrace the new things God has for us. [28:06] 5. **Repositioning for Supernatural Release:** To experience divine release, we must reposition ourselves spiritually. This involves fasting, prayer, and obedience to God's commands. By aligning ourselves with God's will, we open ourselves to receive His blessings and experience a year of supernatural release and abundance. [34:50] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [05:27] - The Purpose of Fasting - [06:20] - Accepting Forgiveness - [08:22] - Letting Go of Blame - [10:05] - Taking Responsibility - [15:05] - The Test of Spirituality - [20:39] - The Will and Feelings - [21:39] - Releasing Emotional Ties - [22:49] - Divine Release Explained - [26:03] - Breaking Stagnation - [28:06] - Faith Over Fear - [29:26] - Generational Curses Broken - [32:27] - Receiving Uncommon Blessings - [34:50] - Repositioning Spiritually - [39:07] - Closing Prayer and Blessing

Highest Praise 9am weekend service! Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving In today's message, we explored the profound themes found in the book of Malachi, focusing on its relevance as a message of hope for our lives. Malachi, written after Israel's return from Babylonian captivity, addresses the people's growing doubt and suspicion about God's past and future actions. Despite their deliverance, the Israelites began to question God's faithfulness, leading to a casual approach to worship and a neglect of their spiritual duties. Malachi serves as a divine reminder that God still loves His people and is actively working in their lives, even when they cannot see it. The book of Malachi is a call to remember God's past faithfulness and to trust in His promises for the future. It challenges us to remain faithful and hopeful, even when we are in seasons of waiting or preparation. Malachi's message is not just about the past but also about the future, pointing to the coming of Jesus and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. It encourages us to rise above our circumstances and see from a heavenly perspective, understanding that God is preparing something greater for us. In our journey, we must avoid the pitfalls of doubt, comparison, and complaining, which can shield us from seeing God's promises. Instead, we are called to be seated in heavenly places, gaining a perspective that allows us to trust in God's timing and His plans. Malachi reminds us that God is always moving, always preparing, and always coming through for us. Our task is to remain faithful, trusting that what God has promised will come to pass. **Key Takeaways:** - **Faithfulness in Doubt:** Malachi teaches us that even in times of doubt and suspicion, God remains faithful. We must remember His past works and trust that He is still active in our lives, preparing us for what is to come. Our faithfulness in these moments is crucial to experiencing His promises. [01:41] - **The Danger of Casual Worship:** The Israelites' casual approach to worship and neglect of spiritual duties serve as a warning. We must take our relationship with God seriously, honoring Him in all aspects of our lives, to avoid drifting into doubt and suspicion. [05:45] - **Hope in Preparation:** Seasons of waiting are not wasted; they are times of preparation. Malachi reminds us that God is preparing something greater for us, and we must remain hopeful and faithful, trusting in His perfect timing. [11:21] - **Avoiding Comparison and Complaining:** Comparison and complaining can shield us from seeing God's promises. We must focus on our unique journey with God, trusting that He is the source of all we need and that His plans for us are good. [21:31] - **Seated in Heavenly Places:** Malachi encourages us to rise above our circumstances and see from a heavenly perspective. By being seated with Christ, we gain the clarity and hope needed to trust in God's promises and remain faithful in our journey. [30:16] **Youtube Chapters:** [00:00] - Welcome [01:41] - Introduction to Malachi [05:45] - Israel's Doubt and Casual Worship [08:34] - The Message of Hope [11:21] - Seasons of Preparation [15:15] - The Role of Faithfulness [16:58] - Lessons from a Basketball Timeout [20:06] - Reality vs. Emotions [21:31] - The Dangers of Comparison and Complaining [25:17] - God's Response to Israel [26:31] - Misplaced Passion and God's Grace [30:16] - Seated in Heavenly Places [32:21] - Trusting in God's Presence [33:04] - A Disney Analogy [38:57] - Conclusion and Prayer

Highest Praise 9am weekend service! Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving In this message, we are reminded of the profound simplicity and power of trusting in the Lord, especially during the Christmas season. Reflecting on the story of the Magi from Matthew 2, we see how God used a star to guide these wise men to Jesus, illustrating the importance of following the light that God provides in our lives. The Magi, despite their pagan background, recognized the significance of the star and followed it, demonstrating a deep trust in the divine guidance they received. This trust is a call for us to move out of our comfort zones and follow God's light, even when it doesn't make sense or when it leads us to unexpected places. The sermon emphasizes that Jesus is the light of the world, a theme we've explored throughout December. Light, as explained, is composed of three distinct rays, paralleling the Trinity—God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. This divine light can dispel darkness, just as Jesus dispels the darkness in our lives. The Magi's journey is a testament to the power of this light and the importance of trusting in God's guidance, regardless of our understanding. As we look forward to 2025, we are encouraged to anticipate a revival, where God will speak to people in unexpected ways. The Magi's story reminds us that God can reach anyone, regardless of their background, and that His ways are often beyond our comprehension. We are called to trust in Him, acknowledging that His plans are perfect, even when they appear simple or humble, like the birth of Jesus in a manger. This Christmas, let us remember the simplicity of God's love and the gift of Jesus, who came to bring us hope, peace, and joy. As we partake in communion, we are reminded of the sacrifice Jesus made for us, and we are encouraged to trust in His light and follow His voice, just as the Magi did. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Trust in Divine Guidance:** The story of the Magi teaches us to trust in the guidance God provides, even when it leads us to unexpected places. Just as the Magi followed the star, we are called to follow God's light in our lives, trusting that He knows the way. [03:07] 2. **Jesus as the Light of the World:** Jesus is the light that dispels darkness, and His presence in our lives brings clarity and direction. The analogy of light being composed of three rays reflects the Trinity, reminding us of the unity and power of God. [04:55] 3. **God Speaks in Unexpected Ways:** God can reach us through various means, whether through a star, a voice, or our conscience. We must be open to hearing His voice and recognizing His guidance in our lives. [09:42] 4. **Anticipate Revival:** As we look forward to the future, we are encouraged to expect God to move in powerful ways, reaching people we might not expect. This anticipation calls us to be ready and willing to follow wherever He leads. [11:04] 5. **Embrace Simplicity in Faith:** The birth of Jesus in a humble manger reminds us of the simplicity and power of God's love. We are called to embrace this simplicity, trusting in God's perfect plan and the gift of salvation through Jesus. [22:26] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [01:45] - The Story of the Magi - [03:07] - Trusting the Lord - [03:50] - Jesus, the Light of the World - [04:55] - The Science of Light and the Trinity - [05:41] - Jesus as Fulfillment - [07:06] - The Magi's Journey - [07:49] - Recognizing God's Signs - [08:54] - Following the Star - [09:42] - Hearing God's Voice - [11:04] - Anticipating Revival - [12:17] - Trusting God's Plan - [13:36] - The Humble Birth of Jesus - [15:05] - Worshiping the King - [17:01] - Moving Out of Comfort Zones - [18:49] - Communion and Reflection - [22:26] - Embracing Simplicity in Faith - [25:25] - Closing Prayer and Blessing

Highest Praise 9am weekend service! Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving In today's message, we explored the theme of adoration, particularly in the context of the Christmas season. We began with a humorous story about a boy trying to negotiate with God for a bicycle, which served as a reminder that our relationship with God should not be transactional. Instead, we are called to adore Him with our whole hearts, as true adoration is an attitude of worship that places God first in our lives. We delved into the story of the shepherds in Luke 2, who were uniquely called to witness the birth of Christ. Their experience reminds us that adoration is not just about being present but being truly amazed by who Jesus is. This amazement should lead us to share the good news with others, just as the shepherds did. We also reflected on the encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, emphasizing that worship is not confined to a place or time but is a continuous act of spirit and truth. The narrative of Simeon, who awaited the Messiah with great anticipation, illustrated the fulfillment of God's promises. Simeon's adoration was so profound that nothing else in his life could compare to the moment he saw Jesus. This challenges us to make Jesus our overwhelming first, the most precious aspect of our lives. We also considered the story of David, who refused to offer God a sacrifice that cost him nothing. This teaches us that true worship involves sacrifice and that our adoration should be reflected in our willingness to give God our best, even when it costs us. As we navigate the busyness of the Christmas season, let us not forget to adore Christ, making Him the center of our celebrations and our lives. May our adoration be evident in our actions, our giving, and our worship, as we recognize the immense value of God's grace and the joy of His presence. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Adoration Beyond Transaction:** Our relationship with God should not be transactional, like the boy negotiating for a bicycle. True adoration involves placing God first in our hearts and lives, recognizing that He knows our needs and desires. This requires a shift from seeking what we can get from God to offering Him our genuine worship and devotion. [01:08] 2. **Worship in Spirit and Truth:** The encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman teaches us that worship is not confined to a specific place or time. True worship is a continuous act of spirit and truth, where we adore God in every aspect of our lives, not just during church services or special occasions. [03:23] 3. **Amazement Leads to Action:** The shepherds' amazement at witnessing Christ's birth led them to share the good news with others. When we are truly amazed by who Jesus is, it should move us to action, becoming messengers of His love and grace to those around us. [38:24] 4. **The Overwhelming First:** Simeon's encounter with Jesus exemplifies making Christ the overwhelming first in our lives. When Jesus is our most precious treasure, our adoration becomes natural and sincere, influencing every decision and action we take. [15:48] 5. **Sacrificial Worship:** David's refusal to offer God a sacrifice that cost him nothing highlights the importance of sacrificial worship. True adoration involves giving God our best, even when it requires sacrifice, as a reflection of our love and devotion to Him. [33:53] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [01:08] - The Story of the Boy and the Bicycle - [03:23] - Worship in Spirit and Truth - [15:48] - Simeon's Anticipation and Adoration - [33:53] - David's Sacrificial Worship - [35:03] - The Cost of True Adoration - [36:13] - Creating an Atmosphere of Worship - [37:19] - Adoration Beyond the Church Walls - [38:24] - The Shepherds' Amazement and Action - [39:35] - Being Moved by the Gospel - [44:29] - Closing Prayer and Reflection

Highest Praise 9am weekend service! Digital Connect Card: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/people/forms/195624 Give: https://highestpraise.churchcenter.com/giving The Christmas season is a time to reflect on the profound gift of Jesus Christ, who came to save us from our sins and deliver us from the kingdom of darkness. In Matthew 1:21-23, we are reminded of the prophecy fulfilled through Jesus, who is called Emmanuel, meaning "God with us." This signifies that God is not distant but intimately involved in our lives. Jesus came not only to save us from sin but also to deliver us from fear, death, and condemnation. His coming ensures that we will never be separated from God, and we can live free from the fear of death and the power of sin. The name Jesus, or Yahshua, is not just a name but a declaration of His mission to save and keep us safe. The Greek word "sozo" encapsulates this mission, meaning to save, heal, and preserve. Jesus is our Savior, continually rescuing us from spiritual, physical, and emotional perils. He is the Christ, the anointed one, fulfilling the prophecies as the Messiah who rules over His people. His anointing as prophet, priest, and king empowers Him to bring truth, offer sacrifice, and establish a kingdom of righteousness. In this flawed world, adversity is inevitable, but it is through these challenges that God's favor and anointing are revealed. The story of Mary, who faced great adversity yet was blessed, illustrates that God's favor enables us to succeed despite difficulties. Adversity is not a sign of God's absence but an opportunity for His power to manifest in our lives. Jesus, our Emmanuel, is reliable and present in every trial, offering us the strength to overcome. The incarnation is God's way of writing Himself into our story, much like a writer inserting themselves into their creation. Jesus, as Emmanuel, is God with us, ensuring that we are never alone. This Christmas, we are reminded that God is not confined to our space but has entered it to be with us. Accepting Jesus as Savior and Lord is the most reliable decision we can make, as He promises to be with us through every adversity, offering His unfailing love and guidance. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Jesus as Savior and Deliverer:** Jesus came to save us from our sins and deliver us from fear, death, and condemnation. His mission is encapsulated in the word "sozo," which means to save, heal, and preserve. This Christmas, remember that Jesus is continually rescuing us from spiritual, physical, and emotional perils. [02:43] 2. **The Anointed One:** Jesus is the Christ, the anointed one, fulfilling the prophecies as the Messiah. His anointing as prophet, priest, and king empowers Him to bring truth, offer sacrifice, and establish a kingdom of righteousness. Embrace His lordship and the benefits of His anointing in your life. [09:47] 3. **Adversity and God's Favor:** Adversity is not a sign of God's absence but an opportunity for His power to manifest. God's favor enables us to succeed despite difficulties, as seen in Mary's story. Trust that God's favor will see you through every challenge. [17:36] 4. **The Incarnation:** The incarnation is God's way of writing Himself into our story. Jesus, as Emmanuel, is God with us, ensuring that we are never alone. This Christmas, reflect on the profound truth that God entered our space to be with us. [22:59] 5. **Reliability of God:** Jesus, our Emmanuel, is reliable and present in every trial. Accepting Him as Savior and Lord is the most reliable decision we can make, as He promises to be with us through every adversity, offering His unfailing love and guidance. [37:59] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [00:45] - The Name of Jesus - [01:49] - The Purpose of His Coming - [02:43] - Deliverance from Sin and Fear - [05:43] - The Meaning of Sozo - [09:47] - Jesus as Christ the Lord - [13:58] - Anointed as Prophet, Priest, and King - [17:36] - Favor in Adversity - [18:53] - The Role of Adversity - [20:24] - Mary's Story of Adversity - [22:59] - The Incarnation: God with Us - [37:59] - Accepting Jesus as Savior and Lord - [38:33] - Closing Prayer and Invitation

As we enter the Christmas season, it's a time to reflect on the light of the world, Jesus Christ, and how His presence transforms our lives. The story of the shepherds in Luke 2 serves as a powerful reminder of the initial encounter with the divine light. The shepherds, upon witnessing the glory of the Lord, were compelled to seek out the Savior, illustrating the importance of moving beyond a single encounter with God to a life of continual seeking. This journey of seeking is not just about reliving past experiences but about setting ourselves up for new and greater encounters with God. The Christmas story, as depicted in the movie "The Christmas Pageant," highlights the transformative power of encountering Jesus. The orphans in the story, unfamiliar with the Christmas narrative, find themselves in roles that lead them to a deeper understanding of the story of Jesus. This mirrors our own spiritual journey, where initial encounters with Christ should propel us into a life of seeking Him more deeply. The danger lies in becoming stagnant, in allowing a past encounter to define our entire spiritual journey, rather than using it as a stepping stone to further growth. The Greek word "zetao," meaning to seek, encapsulates the essence of our spiritual journey. It calls us to set ourselves in order to find God continually. Our encounters with God should lead us into seasons of seeking, where we align our lives to pursue Him with greater fervor. This seeking is not just about finding answers but about deepening our relationship with God, allowing His light to illuminate our path continually. The story of Saul's transformation into Paul in Acts 9 further illustrates the journey from being a seer to a seeker. Saul's initial encounter with the light of Christ was a catalyst for a life of seeking, leading to profound transformation. This narrative encourages us to move beyond distractions and to focus on seeking God, trusting that in our seeking, we will find Him and experience new and greater encounters. As we celebrate the light of the world this Christmas, let us commit to being seekers of God, setting ourselves in order to find Him continually. In doing so, we open ourselves to the fullness of His presence and the transformative power of His light in our lives. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **The Journey of Seeking:** Our initial encounter with Jesus should be the beginning of a lifelong journey of seeking Him. This journey is about setting ourselves in order to find God continually, allowing each encounter to propel us into deeper relationship and understanding. [14:10] 2. **Avoiding Stagnation:** It's crucial not to become stagnant in our spiritual journey by clinging to past encounters. Instead, we should use these experiences as stepping stones to seek God more fervently, trusting that He has greater encounters waiting for us. [17:16] 3. **The Power of Seeking:** The Greek word "zetao" emphasizes the importance of seeking God. Our encounters with Him should lead us into seasons of seeking, where we align our lives to pursue Him with greater fervor, allowing His light to illuminate our path continually. [15:02] 4. **Transformation through Seeking:** Saul's transformation into Paul illustrates the power of seeking God. Despite initial distractions, Saul's encounter with Christ led to a life of seeking, resulting in profound transformation and a deeper understanding of God's purpose. [18:48] 5. **The Promise of Seeking:** The safest and most fulfilling path in life is to be a seeker of God. In our seeking, we are promised to find Him and experience new and greater encounters, allowing His light to transform our lives continually. [25:35] **Youtube Chapters:** [00:00] - Welcome [02:31] - The Christmas Story Begins [05:58] - The Christmas Pageant Movie [12:04] - Encountering Jesus [14:10] - The Journey of Seeking [15:02] - The Greek Word "Zetao" [17:16] - Avoiding Stagnation [18:48] - Saul's Transformation [21:06] - The Promise of Seeking [25:35] - Greater Encounters Await [28:29] - The Importance of Seeking [29:39] - The Power of Seeking [30:50] - Aligning Your Life [32:46] - The Season of Seeking [36:17] - The Light of the World [37:10] - Discipleship and Seeking [39:30] - God's Game of Hide and Seek [41:47] - Understanding the Encounter [42:55] - Closing Prayer and Dismissal

In today's message, we explored the profound significance of the Passover meal that Jesus shared with His disciples, as recounted in Mark 14. This event, often referred to as the Last Supper, is a pivotal moment in Christian history, symbolizing the transition from the old covenant to the new covenant through Jesus Christ. The Passover meal was not just a remembrance of the Israelites' deliverance from Egyptian bondage but also a foreshadowing of the ultimate deliverance from sin and spiritual death through Jesus, the true Passover Lamb. Jesus meticulously prepared for this meal, demonstrating His foreknowledge and divine orchestration. He instructed His disciples to follow a man carrying a pitcher of water, a rare sight, to find the place where they would celebrate the Passover. This preparation underscores that Jesus is not only a preparer but a pre-preparer, ensuring that everything was in place for this significant event. During the meal, Jesus introduced a new meaning to the elements of bread and wine. The bread symbolized His body, given for the fellowship we have with Him, and the wine represented His blood, establishing a new covenant. This new covenant signifies that through Jesus' sacrifice, believers are sanctified, delivered, and redeemed. The disciples were reminded that spiritual death would pass over them, just as physical death passed over the Israelites' homes marked by the lamb's blood. Judas Iscariot's betrayal was a stark contrast to the redemption offered to all. Despite his actions, the message is clear: no sin is beyond the redeeming power of Jesus. Judas believed the lie that he was beyond redemption, a belief that led to his downfall. In contrast, the other disciples embraced the truth of redemption, never forgetting who Jesus was and what He had done for them. As we partake in communion, we remember that we have been sanctified, delivered, and redeemed. We look forward to the day when we will join Jesus in the marriage supper of the Lamb, celebrating the ultimate victory over sin and death. **Key Takeaways:** - Jesus is a pre-preparer, orchestrating events with divine precision. His preparation for the Passover meal demonstrates His foreknowledge and care for His disciples, reminding us that He is always working ahead of us to fulfill His purposes. [03:00] - The Passover meal symbolizes the transition from the old covenant to the new covenant. Jesus redefined the elements of bread and wine, representing His body and blood, establishing a new covenant of redemption and eternal life. [15:08] - Judas Iscariot's betrayal highlights the danger of believing the lie that one is beyond redemption. Despite his actions, the message is clear: no sin is too great for Jesus' redeeming power. [19:50] - Communion is a reminder of our sanctification, deliverance, and redemption through Jesus. It is a celebration of the new covenant and a proclamation of our faith in His sacrifice and promise of eternal life. [28:26] - The fourth cup, which Jesus did not drink, symbolizes the future gathering of believers in the marriage supper of the Lamb. It represents the ultimate victory over sin and the fulfillment of God's promise to gather His people. [34:52] **Youtube Chapters:** [00:00] - Welcome [01:24] - Judas the Opportunist [03:00] - Jesus' Divine Preparation [10:00] - The Passover of Passovers [11:12] - Redemption for All [12:13] - The First Cup: Sanctification [13:03] - The Second Cup: Deliverance [15:08] - The New Covenant [16:23] - Betrayal Foretold [18:13] - Judas' Departure [19:50] - The Third Cup: Redemption [24:25] - The Lie of No Hope [28:26] - Communion: A New Remembrance [31:36] - The Fourth Cup: Future Promise [34:52] - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb [38:04] - Invitation to Redemption [44:40] - Prayer of Redemption

We explored the theme of "Defeating Disappointment," drawing from the rich tapestry of scripture to understand how God meets us in our moments of despair. We began by honoring our veterans, acknowledging their sacrifices, and then transitioned into a time of worship, recognizing the presence of the King among us. Our primary texts were Ezekiel 1 and Psalm 107, which provided a framework for understanding how God operates in our lives, even when we feel like we've missed our appointments or opportunities. Ezekiel's vision by the river Kabar, on what should have been a significant day in his life, serves as a powerful reminder that no place is too far for God to reach us. Despite being in Babylon, a place of exile and broken dreams, Ezekiel experienced the heavens opening and saw visions of God. This illustrates that even in our darkest moments, God is present and working. Psalm 107 offers a structured approach to understanding disappointment through its four stanzas, each representing different types of disappointments: accidents, wrongs done by others, personal failures, and running from God. Each stanza ends with a call to give thanks to the Lord, emphasizing that crying out to God in our distress leads to deliverance. This psalm reassures us that God is never late, and He is always ready to guide us back to the right path, heal our wounds, and calm our storms. We also discussed the importance of having an active relationship with the Holy Spirit, likening it to having an instructor who guides us through life's challenges. Without this guidance, we risk walking through life with a list of instructions but no understanding of how to apply them. The Holy Spirit is essential for living a life of faith and overcoming the disappointments that inevitably come our way. Ultimately, the message is one of hope and encouragement. No matter the source of our disappointment, whether it be external circumstances, personal failures, or running from God, He is always ready to meet us where we are. We are reminded that God is not only present in our lives but actively working to bring about His purposes, even when we cannot see it. **Key Takeaways:** - **God's Presence in Exile:** Ezekiel's vision by the river Kabar teaches us that no place is too far for God to reach us. Even in our darkest moments, God is present and working, reminding us that we have not missed our divine appointments. [01:01] - **Understanding Disappointment:** Psalm 107 provides a framework for understanding different types of disappointments, whether they are accidents, wrongs done by others, personal failures, or running from God. Each type of disappointment is met with God's deliverance when we cry out to Him. [19:48] - **The Role of the Holy Spirit:** Having an active relationship with the Holy Spirit is crucial for navigating life's challenges. Without this guidance, we risk walking through life with a list of instructions but no understanding of how to apply them. The Holy Spirit is our instructor, guiding us in faith. [08:18] - **God's Timeliness:** One of the most important truths is that God is always on time. We may feel like we've missed our opportunities, but God is already in our future, working things out for our good. Our disappointments are not the end of the story. [09:26] - **Hope in God's Deliverance:** Regardless of the source of our disappointment, God is always ready to meet us where we are. He is actively working to bring about His purposes, and our role is to trust Him and cry out in our distress, knowing He will deliver us. [27:53] **Youtube Chapters:** - [00:00] - Welcome - [01:01] - Opening Scripture: Ezekiel and Psalms - [01:51] - Defeating Disappointment - [03:51] - Personal Reflections and Humor - [05:49] - The Importance of an Instructor - [08:18] - The Role of the Holy Spirit - [09:26] - Understanding Disappointment - [10:24] - Personal Story of Disappointment - [13:42] - Structure of the Psalms - [15:24] - The Five Books of Psalms - [17:13] - The Enemy Stealing Your Song - [19:00] - Structure of Psalm 107 - [22:49] - Stanza Two: Disappointment by Others - [24:20] - Stanza Three: Personal Failures - [26:23] - Stanza Four: Running from God - [28:26] - God's Deliverance in Disappointment - [31:07] - Ezekiel's Vision and God's Timing - [32:36] - God's Reach: Even in Babylon - [35:17] - Crying Out to God - [37:41] - Closing Prayer and Encouragement