The Sovereignty of God

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Life rarely goes according to plan, and neither did Paul's. Shipwrecked, stranded, and then snake-bitten the moment things seemed to be looking up, the Apostle Paul had every reason to despair. Yet in Acts 28, we discover three timeless truths for moving forward after the storm: God's promises outlast the chaos, His purposes are often found in life's detours, and He uses His people to carry us through.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

"Those who have a why to live can bear almost any how." Acts 27 demonstrates this truth through Paul's shipwreck experience. Facing certain death, Paul didn't just survive, he led others through the crisis with supernatural calm. The difference? He knew he belonged to God. Challenges will either reveal the emptiness of self-reliance or deepen our trust in Christ's sufficiency.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

"A storm reveals the strength of a tree's roots." Paul's shipwreck in Acts 27 becomes a masterclass in spiritual resilience. While experienced sailors panic, this prisoner-apostle brings calm to chaos. Why? Because he understood that whether we cause our storms or they're beyond our control, God's faithfulness remains constant. The answer to every storm isn't better circumstances, it's always Jesus.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

What if patience isn't about waiting longer, but about trusting deeper? Paul's imprisonment teaches us that patience is the spirit-produced ability to endure difficult people and delayed outcomes without losing faith, love, or self-control. When we remember God's patience toward us, we discover the strength to honor Him even when circumstances don't change.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Ever wonder if God truly sees you in your struggles? In Acts 23, we discover the beautiful truth of being "chosen" by God, the same transformative love that worked in Paul's life extends to you. Your adversity isn't evidence of God's absence; it might be the very place where His providence unfolds, orchestrating circumstances for His glory and your ultimate good.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

What do you do when following God leads to unexpected struggles? In Acts 16, Paul faces adversity at every turn on his missionary journey—closed doors, beatings, imprisonment. Yet through it all, he discovers three powerful truths: God redeems adversity in unexpected ways, the gospel transforms lives, and we're called to live for His glory while trusting Him completely.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Acts 12 teaches that wisdom for life's challenges includes sleeping peacefully like Peter chained between guards the night before execution, because trust in God transcends circumstances. The angel's specific instructions to Peter—get up, get dressed, put on sandals, wrap your cloak—shows God cares about practical details even in miraculous deliverances. When Rhoda left Peter standing outside in her excitement, it illustrates how God's answers can be so unexpected that even faithful believers struggle to believe them.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Acts 4:23-37 reveals that success in adversity comes not from waiting for trials to pass but from seeking the Lord, resting in His sovereignty, and praying for boldness even when afraid. When threatened by authorities, the early church didn't pray for comfort or revenge but for courage to continue speaking God's Word. Their faith was proven genuine through selfless living, biblical unity, and radical generosity—demonstrating that a ground-shaking God enables His people to remain unshakable.

From the series: Summer in the Psalms

Psalm 11 calls us to take refuge in God, not letting life's storms dictate our response. We remember that challenges reveal our faith, that God is sovereign and sees us, and that tested faith refines an enduring trust in Him. As His people, we are called to walk in righteousness, rest in His shelter, and trust His steady presence through every season.

From the series: Unveiled: A Study in Revelation

Revelation 10 offers a powerful pause amidst the judgments, emphasizing God’s greatness and faithfulness. The imagery of the mighty angel reminds believers to trust in God’s sovereignty, cling to His promises, and embrace His calling. It invites us to focus not on the destination but on the presence of the Shepherd guiding us.

From the series: Unveiled: A Study in Revelation

Revelation 6 reveals the breaking of the seals, exposing humanity’s persistent reliance on worldly systems that lead to destruction. Amid adversity and judgment, we are reminded of God’s sovereignty and patience, offering repentance and rest. The passage calls us to align with His eternal kingdom, rejecting hope in worldly things.

From the series: Unveiled: A Study in Revelation

Revelation 4 draws our hearts to the throne of God, emphasizing His supreme glory and personal care for His people. In troubled times, it urges us to anchor our faith in God’s sovereignty, fostering genuine worship and reliance on His power to calm the chaos within and around us.

From the series: Late Summer in the Psalms

Psalm 139 is known as the "Omni Psalm" that examines the omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence of God. It helps us understand who God truly is and how this knowledge should shape our lives to honor and glorify Him.

From the series: In the Beginning

A healthy life depends on a close and trusting relationship with God. We see how Joseph depended on God and trusted in God’s plan and purpose for him though it wasn’t always clear. Joseph did not lose faith in adversity, but rather looked to serve the Lord through the adversity. God was faithful, and we see this displayed in the life of Joseph. Though the actions of individuals in Joseph’s life (e.g. his brothers, Potiphar’s wife) were meant to harm Joseph, God used these events to bless not only Joseph, but nations. Genesis 50:20 (ESV) “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.”

From the series: In the Beginning

During different seasons of life, we encounter all kinds of circumstances, both positive and negative, but through all of them God is in control. In Genesis 46, we see Jacob and his family moving to Egypt. There they reunited with Joseph, and we see the fulfillment of God's promises to Jacob.

From the series: In the Beginning

In Genesis 38, we find the story of Judah and his daughter-in-law, Tamar. In the messy circumstances, we see what happens when someone is taken advantage of for selfish purposes. Yet in spite of the mess, God is always sovereign and works all things together for His good and gives us hope.

From the series: In the Beginning

Have you ever worked really hard for something only to have it taken from you in the end? This is what happens to Jacob in Genesis 29. He works for 7 years to marry Rachel only to be tricked in the end, as he finds himself married to her sister Leah instead.

From the series: In the Beginning

God is always faithful to fulfill his promises, as we see with the birth of Isaac in Genesis 21. Even when Abraham and Sarah tried to control the situation, God’s timing is always perfect, and we can always trust in his promises.

From the series: In the Beginning

The first 11 chapters of Genesis cover a period of approximately 1,600 years. One of the events recorded in Genesis 7 and 8 is Noah’s flood, which is full of examples of God’s providence and foreshadows Jesus.

From the series: Summer in the Psalms: Vol 2

While Psalm 90 is not first in the book of Psalms, it is actually the first psalm written, penned by Moses. He reflects on how God has always been faithful to His people, even when they were unfaithful to Him.

From the series: Summer in the Psalms: Vol 2

There are times when we come to God with an attitude that we're owed all the good things of life. This is how the psalmist in Psalms 73 approaches God, but his heart is changed when he sees that the things of this world are fleeting and his only true refuge is in God.

From the series: Romans: More than Conquerors

It can be easy to get into the mindset that we want God to come alongside us and do what we want. Instead, we should surrender our will to God and let Him flow through us to bless others in this world. Through that we can find true happiness and meaning.

From the series: Romans: More than Conquerors

In today’s passage, the Apostle Paul examines how salvation began with God’s people, the Jews. Through God’s kindness, Gentiles were grafted in, not because of anything we did, but simply by the mercy and grace of God.

From the series: Romans: More than Conquerors

God wants us to make a difference in this world and stand for truth, not just what is popular in the culture around us. The body of Christ can only be effective when we are working together on mission to serve the people around us.

From the series: Romans: More than Conquerors

Does God harden people's hearts? Paul responds to this hot button question in Romans 9 and examines how the human heart responds to the sovereignty of God. It’s only because of the grace of Jesus that we have any standing before God.

From the series: Romans: More than Conquerors

In Romans 9, Paul deals with the complex issue of salvation and the sovereignty of God and how He is at work in all things.

From the series: Jars of Clay

God has a mission for us in this world, to connect and serve those around us, like Jesus did. As we remain on mission for Him, we have a place to rest in His security, so we can withstand whatever the world throws at us.

From the series: Esther: Such a Time as This

In Esther we see the origins of the Jewish celebration of Purim. It is intended as a reminder of God's faithfulness and deliverance in the midst of adversity. When God is for you, you always have a reason to celebrate.

From the series: Esther: Such a Time as This

In our study of Esther, we've learned that selfishness leads to sin and suffering. Haman and the king were willing to exterminate the Jewish people to serve their own needs. The book of Esther offers the opportunity to contrast their selfishness with the picture of a godly leader.

From the series: Esther: Such a Time as This

In Esther 6, we see the providence of God at work in directing King Ahasuerus to honor Mordecai and spare his life. The pride of Haman finally leads to his downfall.

From the series: Esther: Such a Time as This

What does it mean to "wait for the Lord?" In Esther 3, we see how selfish intentions and pride can cause chaos in all aspects of life.

From the series: Esther: Such a Time as This

In chapter 2, we are introduced to three complex characters. In the king, we see the lack of accountability in his attitude and behavior. We are also introduced to Mordecai and his cousin Esther as they are faced with choices of faith vs convenience.

From the series: Light the Dark

Focuses on Jesus' teachings in John 10, where Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd. Explores the concept of Jesus as a shepherd compared to other leaders who are depicted as imposters. It highlights the intimate and personal nature of Jesus' leadership, emphasizing His knowledge of each individual and His guiding role. Underscores the contrast between Jesus' protective and nurturing approach and the destructive intentions of others, illustrating the spiritual safety and abundant life found in following Jesus.

From the series: Pursuing God's Heart

This week we are jumping into Samuel 16 and how God choose David to lead the people of Israel.

From the series: Revive

Psalm 62 addresses worshiping God in times of doubt and struggle. It emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's salvation and power, even when life is fragile and circumstances are beyond control. Highlights the significance of waiting on and resting in God's promises, and the need to invite others to faith rather than fear. It underscores the transformative power of trials in refining true worship and the importance of recognizing God's love and power in challenging times.

From the series: Kingdom Come

Focuses on the pivotal moments in the Exodus story, particularly highlighting the power and presence of God in leading the Israelites out of Egypt. It emphasizes the contrast between Pharaoh's hardened heart and Moses' humble response to God's call. Discusses the significance of trusting in God's promises, even in the face of adversity and uncertainty, encouraging listeners to recognize and embrace God's defining moments in their own lives.

From the series: Standalone Messages

We look at God's word to see how the simple phrase, "But God ..." can be so tremendously powerful.

From the series: Psalms Greatest Hits

Explores the significance of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises through the anointing of a true king, as portrayed in Psalm 2. It highlights the anticipation of a divine king throughout Israel's history, leading up to the New Testament revelation of Jesus as this promised king. Emphasizes the themes of God's authority, the futility of human rebellion against divine will, and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom through Christ.

From the series: Greater

Focuses on the power of faith, no matter its size and examines how even a small amount of faith can lead to significant spiritual growth and impact when placed in a powerful and loving God. Encourages believers to trust in God's strength and provision, rather than the size of their own faith.

From the series: Cultural Collision

Delves into the theme of pride as the central conflict in cultural collisions and personal relationships with God. Illustrates this through the stories of Kings Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar, emphasizing how pride led to their downfalls. It highlights the importance of humility and acknowledges the challenging nature of addressing pride, both in oneself and in teaching others.

From the series: Jonah

Delves into the importance of prayer, especially in challenging circumstances. It emphasizes that prayer is not just about asking for needs, but aligning one's heart with God's will. Discusses Jonah's prayer from the belly of the fish as an example of sincere prayer born from adversity, highlighting how prayer provides intimate access to God and is essential for living a life dedicated to His mission.

From the series: Jonah

Delves into Jonah's transformation from running away from God to praying and aligning with God's will. It highlights Jonah's initial disobedience and eventual submission to God's call, emphasizing the power of prayer and surrender. Underscores the theme that one cannot outrun God and the importance of obedience and faith in the face of adversity.

From the series: Standalone Messages

Explores Psalm 91 in the context of the Israelites' journey in the book of Numbers. Focuses on the concept of trusting God amidst challenges, emphasizing how God's guidance and protection lead to spiritual victory. Discusses the importance of faith and obedience in overcoming obstacles, using the story of Moses and the Israelites to illustrate the power of God's provision and care in difficult times.

From the series: Habakkuk

Focuses on the theme of understanding and trusting in God's plan, even amidst confusion and turmoil. It emphasizes the importance of faith and patience, recognizing that God's ways may be difficult to comprehend but are ultimately for the greater good.

From the series: Blessed

Discusses God's judgment in relation to His love, using the example of Sodom and Gomorrah to illustrate that God's judgment is a form of protection for the righteous. It emphasizes that understanding God's judgment is crucial for believers, presenting it as an opportunity for protection rather than fear.

From the series: Soul Detox

Explores the spiritual restlessness that can pervade our lives, urging believers to find peace and rest in Christ. Drawing from the Psalms, it delves into the human tendency to seek satisfaction outside of God, leading to a restless spirit. It highlights the importance of redirecting our souls towards God, emphasizing trust in Him through life's journey and the significance of being still to recognize God's sovereignty and find true rest in His presence.

From the series: FAQs

Explores the nature of evil and suffering, emphasizing that they result from human sin and the curse affecting all creation. It reassures believers that God is both sovereign and caring, having a plan for the redemption of all suffering and evil through Jesus Christ, who sympathizes and intercedes for us.

From the series: Be Bold

Discusses living a godly life versus merely a good one, focusing on letting God control one's life plans. It emphasizes the importance of integrating God into all decisions, warning against making plans based solely on personal desires, which leads away from godliness.

From the series: Be Bold

Addresses how believers can perceive God's guidance through their hardships. It explains that trials should be seen not merely as obstacles but as opportunities for spiritual growth and deepening faith. Through understanding and embracing God's presence in trials, believers can find purpose and strength, transforming struggles into testimonies of faith and resilience.

From the series: Loving the Old Testament

Emphasizes God's providential care in seemingly secular circumstances. It highlights Esther's courage and strategic action, which led to the salvation of her people, demonstrating God’s intervention and the importance of faith and bravery in difficult times.

From the series: Loving the Old Testament

Discusses Ruth's loyal commitment to God amidst severe personal loss. It illustrates her faith and integrity, which underscore the themes of divine providence and redemption, revealing how personal choices align with God's broader plans for blessing and restoration.

From the series: Loving the Old Testament

Focuses on how God uses unlikely individuals for His purposes. It highlights Gideon's story from the Book of Judges, showing that despite Gideon's initial fear and doubt, God empowered him to lead Israel to victory. This narrative illustrates that God's strength and guidance can make heroes out of the most unlikely people.

From the series: Loving the Old Testament

Explains God's sovereignty, focusing on Joseph's life story in Genesis 37. It emphasizes God's plan and purpose, even through trials, highlighting Joseph's journey from being sold into slavery to becoming a powerful leader in Egypt, demonstrating God's control and faithfulness.

From the series: Christmas

Reflects on the unexpected and often challenging circumstances surrounding the birth of Jesus. It highlights how God chose humble and unlikely individuals, like Mary and Joseph, to fulfill His plan. Their story underscores that even in messy situations, God's presence and purpose prevail. By embracing the messiness of life and trusting in God's plan, believers can find hope and meaning.

From the series: FAQs

Emphasizes the importance of trusting in the Lord and surrendering to His guidance. It discusses various aspects of God's will, such as His specific, unique, and moral will, and highlights that discovering His will involves a relationship with Him. Key points include spending time in God's Word, seeking wisdom and understanding, and dedicating oneself to spiritual growth and discipline.

From the series: Standalone Messages

Emphasizes setting spiritual goals for the new year, focusing on seeking God's presence, loving God and others, and overcoming adversity through faith. It highlights the importance of making God the center of one's life, rather than just a priority, and living for an audience of one—God.

If we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. A devotion on 1 John 5 and the quiet confidence God gives us when we pray.

God is not served by human hands as if he needed anything. A devotion on Acts 17 and the freeing truth that God wants us though he never needs us.

God is not a man that he should lie or change his mind. A devotion on Numbers 23:19 and the rock-solid reliability of God's word.

Where is God when life is hard? The first-century Romans wrestled with the same question. How Romans 8 answers it with hope rather than despair.

The God who made heaven, earth, and seas is worthy of all worship. A devotion on Nehemiah 9:6 and the One we were created to praise.

On the anniversary of 9/11, a short reflection on grief, what matters most, and how tragedy can turn our hearts toward what we too often overlook.

A Denver pastor tells the true story of a young woman's survival of the Dark Knight theater shooting, and the God who met her in the terror.

If God is good, why is there so much suffering? An honest look at one of faith's hardest questions and what the Bible actually claims.

If God made everything, did he make evil too? A clear answer to a hard question, and why evil is the absence of God rather than his creation.

If God is all-powerful and never changes, why pray at all? Wrestling honestly with how prayer and God's sovereignty fit together.

It sounds like a clever trap, but the boulder question actually teaches us something true about God's power and his unchanging nature.

What does the phrase, "Son of God" mean? Does it mean that God the Father literally had a son? The answer that question is just plainly no. The phrase "son of" doesn't mean that someone literally has…

It sounds like a simple question, but it carries a hidden assumption. A clear look at why the God who made all things has no beginning himself.