BATTLING UNCERTAIN TIMES – CRAIG CLARK
Scriptures:
Genesis 18:2
John 14:27
Points:
1. Let Grace stand in your mess
2. Take Peace as your companion
3. Know your purpose
4. Learn to Breathe
5. Live in Forgiveness
In this powerful message, we’re reminded that God often places us in ‘but’ moments – times of uncertainty and difficulty that serve to redefine our faith and future. Just as Abraham, Noah, and other biblical figures faced challenging seasons, we too may find ourselves in pauses where God’s promises seem distant. However, these moments are opportunities for growth and redefinition. We’re encouraged to look up, just as Abraham did, and behold God’s grace standing before us. Even in our messes, God’s grace is present, blessing us while not settling for our current state. The key is to embrace peace as our companion, remembering that Christ himself is our peace in turbulent times. As we navigate these seasons, we’re called to breathe in God’s Word and allow the Holy Spirit to fill us, transforming our struggles into stepping stones towards our divine purpose.
1. Let Grace stand in your mess
God’s grace meets us in our darkest moments. He doesn’t settle for our mess, but He’s not afraid to enter it and work through it. Whatever situation you’re in, know that God’s grace is present and active.
2. Take Peace as your companion
Jesus repeatedly offered peace to His disciples in their moment of fear. This peace isn’t just an absence of conflict but the presence of Christ Himself. When anxiety threatens to overwhelm you, remember Jesus’ words: “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” (John 14:27).
3. Know your purpose
In times of uncertainty, it’s easy to lose sight of our calling. But God’s plans for us remain unchanged. Just as Jesus reminded the disciples of their mission, we too must remember that our circumstances don’t negate our purpose. God wants to launch us into the plans He has for us, even (and especially) through difficult seasons.
4. Learn to Breathe
When Jesus appeared to the disciples, He breathed on them, saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” This mirrors God breathing life into Adam at creation. In our struggles, we need to breathe in the life-giving Word of God. Scripture is described as “God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16), and it provides the spiritual oxygen we need to thrive.
In the 50 days between Jesus breathing on the disciples and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the disciples were battling uncertainty. But that period of waiting prepared them for the mighty move of God that was to come. Sometimes, we find ourselves in a similar space – between the gentle breath of God’s promise and the rushing wind of its fulfillment.
During these times, it’s crucial to stay rooted in God’s Word, to keep breathing in His promises, and to remain open to the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. We may not always feel an immediate change, but as we faithfully position ourselves to receive from God, we’re preparing for the “suddenly” moments when His power breaks through in unexpected ways.
5. Live in Forgiveness
God is not angry with you in your uncertainty. He stands with you, ready to restore, empower, and launch you into your destiny. Like Peter, who went from denying Christ to preaching powerfully at Pentecost, your moments of weakness can become the backdrop for God’s greatest demonstrations of power in your life.
As you navigate your own “but” moments, take heart in knowing that God is using this season to redefine your future, strengthen your faith, and prepare you for the miraculous. Keep breathing in His Word, stay at peace in His presence. Remain expectant for the day when your “gate beautiful” moment arrives – when the seeds of faith planted in uncertainty blossom into a powerful testimony of God’s faithfulness.
In every challenge, every setback, and every moment of doubt: God’s grace stands in your mess, His peace is your companion, His purpose for you is unchanged, and His breath is your life. As you lean into these truths, you’ll find the strength to not just endure uncertainty, but to thrive in it, becoming a living testament to the transformative power of faith.
Discussion Questions
1. Let Grace Stand in Your Mess
- How have you experienced God’s grace in difficult or uncertain situations?
- What does it mean to you that God’s grace meets you in your darkest moments?
2. Take Peace as Your Companion
- When you face fear or anxiety, how do you remind yourself of the peace Jesus offers in John 14:27?
- What practices help you embrace the peace that Jesus provides?
3. Know Your Purpose
- How do you stay focused on your purpose when life feels uncertain?
- Can you recall a time when God’s plans for you became clearer during a difficult season?
4. Learn to Breathe
- How do you “breathe in” God’s Word during times of stress or uncertainty?
- Reflect on the significance of Jesus breathing the Holy Spirit onto His disciples. How does this influence your understanding of spiritual renewal?
5. Live in Forgiveness
- How does living in forgiveness affect your ability to navigate uncertain times?
- What can we learn from Peter’s transformation from denial to bold preaching? How does this encourage you in your own journey?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unwavering grace that meets us in our mess, Your peace that calms our anxious hearts, and Your purpose that remains steadfast even in uncertain times. Help us to breathe deeply of Your Spirit and live in the forgiveness You freely offer. May we find strength in Your promises and trust in Your timing. Guide us as we navigate these uncertain times, and let our lives be a testament to Your faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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