THE WORD OF THE LORD

Guidance in Darkness: A lighthouse provides guidance to ships navigating through dangerous waters, especially in darkness or stormy weather. Similarly, God's word acts as a lamp and a light, guiding believers through life's challenges and uncertainties.

Safety and Direction: Just as a lighthouse helps ships avoid hazards and find safe passage, Psalm 119:105 emphasizes that God's word offers wisdom and direction, helping believers avoid spiritual dangers and stay on the right path.

Reliable and Constant: Lighthouses are dependable beacons that remain constant regardless of external conditions. In the same way, God's word is reliable and steadfast, providing consistent guidance and comfort in all circumstances.

Hope and Assurance: The presence of a lighthouse brings hope and assurance to sailors, knowing that they are being guided safely. Similarly, believers find hope and assurance in God's word, trusting in its promises and teachings.

Both the lighthouse and Psalm 119:105 illustrate the importance of having a reliable source of guidance and light to navigate through life's uncertainties and challenges. They both provide direction, safety, and hope to those who rely on them.

Content:

If anyone, who has ever gone through hard times; terrible times; Dreadful times; Overwhelming heartache & despairing times; Times you felt ‘being dead’ would be better--- kind of times; Hopelessness; Meaningless unforgiving times; No relief--- No comfort--- no escape--- No place to hide--- no place to run---down right wrong and unheard of kind of times. Unbelievable; Unspeakable kind of times--- No words for it, kind of times!

If that's you---then this sermon on the Word of God, is just for you!

Before we begin, lets Pray that God open & make known His Word in our Heart today. That the Almighty, Yahweh God guide & protect us, every day, through God’s Word His precious Son Jesus, giving us the Truth through the help & working of the Holy Spirit Amen.

#2-Keep it Real

Keeping it real---You may relate

Living in the world having Emotions: The Highs & Lows of Life

Overwhelmed---as if…?

"The ground just opened up beneath me":

This conveys a sense of sudden, overwhelming shock or despair, as if one's entire foundation has collapsed.

"Caught in a storm":

This illustrates feeling battered by life's challenges, with no clear direction or relief in sight.

"Drowning in the waves of life":

This evokes a sense of being overwhelmed, struggling to stay afloat amid a flood of difficulties.

"In the eye of the storm":

This depicts being at the center of chaos, with turmoil all around.

"Walking through a dark valley":

This conveys a sense of enduring deep sorrow or depression, with no immediate escape.

Strength and Resilience:

"Finding solid ground":

This suggests regaining stability and confidence after a period of upheaval.

"Weathering the storm":

This illustrates enduring hardships with strength and perseverance until they pass.

"Riding the waves":

This implies navigating challenges with resilience and adaptability.

"Emerging from the storm stronger":

This highlights personal growth and strength gained from overcoming adversity.

"Walking toward the light":

This suggests moving through difficult times with hope and faith, seeking a brighter future.

Contrasting Emotions in Hard Times:

Despair vs. Hope:

"Lost in Darkness" vs. "Seeing a glimmer of Light "

Fear vs. Courage:

"Paralyzed by fear" vs. "Facing fears head-on" or “eat your Fears as you go on”

Helplessness vs. Empowerment:

"Chained by circumstances" vs. "Breaking free and taking control"

Isolation vs. Connection:

"Alone in the storm" vs. "Finding shelter with loved ones"

Defeat vs. Victory:

"Crushed by the weight of the world" vs. "Rising triumphantly above challenges"

Some of these expressions capture the profound contrasts people feel during hard times, from utter despair to newfound resilience and hope.

#3-Hard or Worst

Not to make light of yours or my own hardships, in times of despair and loss. But did you ever hear that saying, “there’s always someone going through something even worst” or “thing’s it could be worst”

Adventure with me on a journey. Taking an overview of God’s Holy prefect and true Word--- the bible.

Let’s look at some Biblical stories of courage in the face of adversity. These are stories in the bible of people, like you and me, that have gone through things, you and I may relate with or not or somewhat.

These are those who have set an example, by putting their Faith & Hope in the Eternal Father, Yahweh God no matter what was put in front of them. James says:

James 5:10 LSB

As an example, brothers, of suffering and patience, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.

Several figures in the Bible went through intense hardships and expressed their feelings with deep emotion and eloquence. Here are a few notable examples:

Job Book of Job: Job experienced profound loss and suffering, losing his family, wealth, and health. He expressed his anguish and confusion, questioning the reasons for his suffering. Job 3:1-3: "After this, Job opened his mouth and cursed the day of his birth. He said: 'May the day of my birth perish, and the night that said, ‘A boy is conceived!’'"

David Psalms: King David often wrote about his struggles, fears, and feelings of abandonment in the Psalms. His writings capture a wide range of emotions, from despair to hope and trust in God. Psalm 22:1: "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?" Psalm 23:4: "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

Jeremiah Book of Jeremiah and Lamentations: Known as the "weeping prophet," Jeremiah faced rejection, persecution, and imprisonment. He expressed his sorrow and lamented over the fate of Jerusalem. Jeremiah 20:14: "Cursed be the day I was born! May the day my mother bore me not be blessed!"

Furthermore, Jeremiah writes lamentations, about the destruction of Jerusalem and the loss of those who have die along with it. For Jeremiah this is more heartache and it encapsulates the themes of loss, yet see’s hope and compassion by serving & trusting Yahweh God, even in the mist of doubt & suffering. Lamentations 3:19-23: "I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassion's never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

Paul New Testament Epistles: The Apostle Paul faced numerous hardships, including imprisonment, beatings, and shipwrecks. He wrote about his struggles and the strength he found in his faith. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10: "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

Hannah 1 Samuel: Hannah experienced deep sorrow and anguish due to her inability to have children. She poured out her heart to God in prayer and expressed her pain and longing. 1 Samuel 1:10: "In her deep anguish Hannah prayed to the LORD, weeping bitterly."

Daniels Friends Delivered

Dan 3:19-30 .

In Chapter 3, King Nebuchadnezzar constructs a massive golden image in Babylon and commands all officials to gather for its dedication. A herald announces that everyone must worship the image when they hear music, with the threat of being thrown into a blazing furnace for noncompliance. Despite this decree, certain Chaldeans report that three Jews—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego—refuse to worship the image. Enraged, Nebuchadnezzar summons them and offers a second chance to comply, warning of dire consequences if they do not. The three men boldly declare their faith in God, stating He can save them from the furnace, but even if He does not, they will not serve the king's gods or worship the image.

In response to their defiance, Nebuchadnezzar orders the furnace to be heated seven times hotter and has the men bound and thrown in. However, he is astonished to see four figures walking unharmed in the fire, the fourth resembling a divine being. Nebuchadnezzar calls them out, and they emerge unscathed, with no signs of fire damage. The king praises their God for saving them and issues a decree that anyone who speaks against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego will face severe punishment. He promotes the three men within the province of Babylon, recognizing their faithfulness and the power of their God.

Daniel 3:16–18 “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to respond to you with an answer concerning this matter. “If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to save us from the furnace of blazing fire; and He will save us out of your hand, O king. “But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods, and we will not worship the golden image that you have set up.””

Their faith is Yahweh God; powerful and inspiring.

Their Faith and Courage

Unwavering Faith:

They showed unwavering faith in God's power to save them, even in the face of a terrifying death.

Bold Declaration:

They made a bold declaration that they would not bow down to the king's image, regardless of the consequences.

Acceptance of God's Will:

They acknowledged God's sovereignty by expressing that, even if God chose not to save them, they would remain faithful and not worship other gods.

Application to Hard Times

This passage is a powerful example of steadfast faith and courage in extreme adversity. It highlights:

Trust in God's Deliverance:

Believing in God's ability to save and protect, even in the most dire situations.

Commitment to Principles:

Holding fast to one's beliefs and values, regardless of external pressures.

Acceptance of Outcome:

Trusting in God's greater plan, even if it means facing difficult or painful circumstances.

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego's story serves as an inspiration to remain faithful and courageous, no matter the challenges one may face.

As well as, all the biblical figures whom has exemplify the range of human emotions in the face of adversity and the profound expressions of faith and hope they found through their experiences.

#4-Another example of faith during times of overwhelming adversity and suffering. Several figures in the Bible have expressed a desire to die due to overwhelming hardships. Here are a few notable examples:

Job Job 3:11: > "Why did I not perish at birth, and die as I came from the womb?" Job, in his immense suffering, cursed the day of his birth and wished for death.

Elijah 1 Kings 19:4: > "He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. 'I have had enough, LORD,' he said. 'Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.'" Elijah, after fleeing from Jezebel and feeling utterly defeated, asked God to take his life.

Jonah Jonah 4:3: > "Now, LORD, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live." Jonah, frustrated and angry after God spared Nineveh, wished for death.

Moses Numbers 11:15: > "If this is how you are going to treat me, please go ahead and kill me—if I have found favor in your eyes—and do not let me face my own ruin." Moses, overwhelmed by the burden of leading the Israelite's, expressed a desire to die.

These expressions of despair highlight the intense emotional and spiritual struggles these individuals faced, yet they also show how they turned to God in their moments of deepest anguish.

The Word of God, has shown to be timeless and enduring Word 1 Pet 1:25, especially in those dark valley Ps 23, that come upon us.

#5-Lower the Anchor

Follow me, as I weigh in the anchor for the sure hope of our souls Heb 6:19 ---This hope is call ‘the Word of God’ John 1:1-2

John 1:1–2 LSB

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.

Jesus is the Word Rev 19:13

Revelation 19:13 LSB

and being clothed with a garment dipped in blood, His name is also called The Word of God.

the Word became flesh John 1:14

John 1:14 LSB

And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.

#6-Life’s Changes

Come upon us suddenly

The Enduring Word: Our Anchor in the Storm

Summary: This theme emphasizes the unchanging and powerful nature of the Word of God, highlighting its importance in guiding and sustaining believers through life's challenges.

Question: Ps 119:105

What does Psalm 119:105 indicate about the role of God's word in a believer's life?

Answers:

Psalm 119:105 says: > "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."

Q-How do you interpret this verse?

This verse beautifully illustrates the essential role of God's word in a believer's life:

Guidance and Direction

Lamp for My Feet: Just as a lamp illuminates the immediate steps of a journey, God's word provides guidance for daily decisions and actions. It helps believers navigate their lives, ensuring they stay on the right path.

Q-What does that mean to you-Guidance & Direction?

Light on My Path: Light dispels darkness and reveals the way ahead. Similarly, God's word sheds light on the broader direction of a believer's life, helping them understand God's will and purpose.

Q-What does a Light on your Path mean to you?

Spiritual Enlightenment

Understanding: God's word offers wisdom and understanding, enabling believers to discern right from wrong and make informed choices.

Q-How does Spiritual Enlightenment help you today, in the Family, Work, school etc, and what does that even mean? Give some examples:

Clarity: It brings clarity to life's complexities, offering solutions and insights into various situations.

Q-Why does the Word of God give clarity?

Encouragement and Comfort

Hope in Difficult Times: In times of hardship and uncertainty, God's word offers hope and reassurance. It reminds believers of God's promises and faithfulness.

Q-Why would the Word of God encourage you through difficult time? Give some Bible verse’s to help shed light on this:

Strength: It strengthens the believer's faith, providing the spiritual nourishment needed to persevere through challenges.

Q-How does the Word of God strengthen during time of chaos and heartache?

Moral and Ethical Framework

Guidance for Conduct: The word of God sets the standard for righteous living, instructing believers on how to conduct themselves in a way that honors God.

Q-Can you give some bible verse’s that would help someone else who is facing extreme difficulties?

Correction and Reproof: It acts as a mirror, revealing areas where believers need to grow and change, prompting repentance and transformation.

Q-How does the bible help correct and repoof?

Relationship with God

Communication with God: Through scripture, believers hear God's voice and understand His heart. It deepens their relationship with Him, fostering intimacy and trust.

Q-What form of actions do we take to get closer to God? Give some bible verse’s to show your understanding:

Faith Building: Regular engagement with God's word builds faith, grounding believers in the truth and helping them grow spiritually.

In summary, Psalm 119:105 emphasizes that God's word is an indispensable guide, offering illumination, wisdom, encouragement, and a moral compass for believers. It lights their way, ensuring they walk in alignment with God's will.

Q-How would you summarize this section---What does Psalm 119:105 indicate about the role of God's word in a believer's life?

Application: Understanding the Word of the Lord can provide strength and direction for Christians as they face uncertainties and trials in life. This sermon encourages believers to rely on Scripture for comfort, wisdom, and assurance.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that the Word of God is not only a source of comfort but also a powerful tool for spiritual growth and resilience against the trials of life. It emphasizes the importance of immersing ourselves in God's Word to truly comprehend its life-transforming power.

How this passage could point to Christ: Throughout Scripture, the Word is portrayed as central to God's plan of redemption, culminating in Christ, the Word made flesh (John 1:14). Thus, understanding the Word of the Lord ultimately leads us to a deeper relationship with Christ.

Big Idea: Embracing the Word of the Lord equips believers with the faith and tools they need to navigate the challenges of life, knowing that God's promises remain true and unshakable-even in the face ofl life and death godly choices

Recommended Study: As you prepare for this sermon, consider exploring the text-critical issues surrounding key passages that discuss the nature of the Word, such as

2 Timothy 3:16-17 and Hebrews 4:12. Use Logos to dig into the original languages for more nuanced meanings and examine historical commentaries to see how these verses have been interpreted throughout church history. This will enrich your understanding and help you convey the timeless relevance of God's Word.

1. Psalm's Pathway: Illuminating Guidance

Psalm 119:105-112

Consider a ship lost at sea, navigating through a stormy night, with darkness surrounding it. The lighthouse stands tall, its beam cutting through the fog, calling the ship back to safety. Just as the lighthouse guides ships, so does the Word of God guide us through the turbulent waters of life. When we face confusion and uncertainty, we can turn to scripture for direction, allowing God's promises to illuminate our path.

2. Matthew's Message: Wise Foundations

Matthew 7:24-27

Application

In the church setting, you might sometimes feel disconnected from the community as everyone seems busy in their lives. To fortify your spiritual foundation, get involved in a small group. This week, reach out and join a Bible study or support group that meets regularly. Building relationships with others not only strengthens your faith but also provides you with accountability and encouragement during challenging times, akin to a sturdy rock against life's storms.

3. Timothy's Treasure: Equipping for Life

2 Timothy 3:16-17

In church, you may sometimes feel disconnected or unsure of how to get involved in ministry. Engage with Scripture by exploring Hebrews 10:24-25, which encourages us to stir one another up to love and good works. Take the initiative to connect with a ministry team this week, asking how you can serve. Whether it’s ushering, teaching a class, or volunteering for events, the transformative power of Scripture will encourage you to step out in faith and build meaningful relationships within the church.

4. Hebrew's Heart: Living Sharper

Hebrews 4:12-13

Consider a surgeon preparing for a delicate operation. They rely on both a scalpel and advanced imaging technology to see beneath the surface. In the same way, God’s Word operates like that scalpel—precisely cutting away the distractions and sin in our lives, revealing what needs to be healed. Just as the surgeon’s goal is to improve health, Scripture aims to align our hearts with God’s will, offering both correction and comfort.

Psalm 119:105 LSB

Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.

#7-Key Verse’s

Here are some key verses that provide a comprehensive understanding of the Word of God, highlighting its significance, power, and role in the life of believers:

The Nature and Authority of the Word

John 1:1-3: > "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made."

2 Timothy 3:16-17: > "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

Hebrews 4:12: > "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."

The Word as Guidance and Light

Psalm 119:105: > "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."

Proverbs 30:5: > "Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him."

Psalm 119:11: > "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you."

The Word and Faith

Romans 10:17: > "Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ."

James 1:22: > "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."

The Word and Jesus

John 1:14: > "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."

Colossians 3:16: > "Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts."

The Transformative Power of the Word

Isaiah 55:11: > "So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it."

1 Peter 1:23: > "For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God."

The Eternal Nature of the Word

Matthew 24:35: > "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away."

1 Peter 1:25: > "But the word of the Lord endures forever. And this is the word that was preached to you."

The Word as Spiritual Nourishment

Matthew 4:4: > "Jesus answered, 'It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’'"

Summary

These verses collectively highlight the nature, authority, guidance, transformative power, and eternal significance of the Word of God. They illustrate how the Word is central to faith, spiritual growth, and the Christian life.

#8-Finishing the course

2 Timothy 4:7 LSB

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.

What are some of the historical stories of cruelty and unthinkable suffering these chosen 12 apostles The apostles faced various forms of martyrdom as they spread Christianity. Here are some historical accounts:

In the early days of Christianity, the apostles were not merely spreading a message; they were risking their lives for it. Take Peter, who was crucified upside down, feeling unworthy to die in the same manner as Christ. This reminds us that their commitment went beyond mere belief; it demanded their very lives. How might we evaluate the seriousness of our own faith in light of their sacrifices?

Peter Crucified upside down in Rome during Emperor Nero's persecution. He requested this position, feeling unworthy to die as Jesus did.

Andrew Crucified on an X-shaped cross in Patras, Greece. He continued preaching to onlookers for two days before dying.

James the Greater Beheaded by King Herod Agrippa I in Jerusalem. He was the first apostle to be martyred.

John Exiled to the island of Patmos. He is believed to have died of natural causes, making him the only apostle not martyred-but historically was told he was placed in a boiling pot of oil, but came out UN harmed.

Philip Crucified in Hierapolis, Phrygia (modern-day Turkey) after converting the wife of a Roman proconsul. Bartholomew (Nathanael) Flayed alive and beheaded in Armenia for converting the king to Christianity.

Thomas Speared to death in India while preaching the gospel.

Matthew Stabbed to death in Ethiopia while celebrating Mass.

James the Less Thrown from the pinnacle of the Temple in Jerusalem and then beaten to death.

Thaddeus (Jude) Clubbed to death in Persia while preaching. Simon the Zealot Sawed in half in Persia for refusing to sacrifice to the sun god.

Matthias Stoned and beheaded in Jerusalem. These accounts highlight the apostles' unwavering faith and dedication to spreading Christianity, even in the face of brutal persecution.

Stephen

Stoned to death under the leadership of the apostle Paul when he was Saul before being transformed into a follower of Jesus.

#9-On a more practical note:

here one way to showcase your faith in Jesus, in a world who wants nothing to do with Christianity-one such application in today’s society, might look like this:

Application:

If you’re facing workplace environments that ridicule or dismiss your faith, take a moment to reflect on the dedication of the martyred saints. Challenge yourself to stand by your principles in small, everyday decisions, such as displaying a Bible verse on your desk or initiating a lunch conversation about faith. Small acts of faithfulness can be powerful, demonstrating to your colleagues that your faith is integral to your identity, and may even inspire them to explore their own beliefs.

Finally:

What does God’s Word mean to you?

Q-What does Psalm 119:105 imply about the role of God's word in guiding believers through challenges?

Q-How do the stories of Job, David, and Paul illustrate the theme of finding hope in God's word during times of despair?

Q-In what ways can we apply the concept of God's word as a light in our daily lives?

Q-When faced with overwhelming difficulties, how can the examples of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego inspire us to maintain our faith?

Q-What parallels can be drawn between a lighthouse's role and that of God's word in a believer's life?

Q-What does the description of an Anchor of the Soul mean to you

Q-How does a Light House shed light on the word of God

Final Question:

Q-What does the Word of God say about you making it into Heaven----- Why or why not? Please answer with scriptures

#10-Commentaries:

The Bible Knowledge Commentary 119:105–112

119:105–112. Recognizing that God’s Word was his light to direct him (cf. v. 130; Prov. 6:23) the psalmist vowed to follow it (Ps. 119:105–106). In his distress (vv. 107–110)

Summary:

The psalmist acknowledges God's Word as guidance, vows to follow it, seeks help in distress, and joyfully commits to God's statutes and decrees. Ps 119:130, Prov 6:23, Ps 119:105-106, 107-110.

MacArthur Study Bible NASB (Commentary)

119:105 lamp … light. God’s Word provides illumination to walk without stumbling.

During a night hike in the woods, the darkness can feel overwhelming. But with a flashlight, each step is lit, guiding us safely over rocks and branches. Similarly, God's Word acts as our spiritual flashlight, illuminating our path in life, helping us to avoid stumbling and keeping us on the right track.

Fire Bible Psalm 119

119:105 Your Word is … a light for my path. God’s Word contains the spiritual principles that will help us avoid many sorrows, pitfalls and tragedies brought on by wrong decisions and choices. For this reason, we must treasure its wisdom and apply it in all of life’s situations (vv. 106, 112). It will never fail to guide us in the right direction.

Psalm 119 is a profound expression of love for God's Word, emphasizing its role as a source of guidance, comfort, and strength. The psalmist highlights various aspects of the Word, including its promises, commands, and teachings, which serve as a foundation for living a righteous life. The psalm is structured as an alphabetical acrostic, with 22 stanzas corresponding to the Hebrew alphabet, each beginning with the respective letter.

Ultimately, Psalm 119 underscores the significance of God's Word in guiding believers, providing comfort in times of trouble, and fostering a deep love for God and His truth. The psalmist concludes with a humble acknowledgment of human frailty and the need for divine guidance.

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