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Carefully Tending and Keeping God's Extraordinary Blessings
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerGod's blessings are extraordinary gifts that He bestows upon us, calling the weak of the world to share in His limitless grace. These blessings are meant to shape us into a people reflecting His very image, preparing us for the return of Jesus Christ and our eternal work with Him. We must diligently tend and keep these blessings, for if we fail to use them thoughtfully, we risk losing them. During this sacred Feast, God has given us holy time as a blessing, set apart from a world descending into chaos, to strengthen the unity of the body of Christ. This time is His business, intended for us to share our lives in a way that pleases Him and fosters unity among His people. God has separated us from an increasingly evil world, granting us the extraordinary blessing of direct access to Him through Jesus Christ. We are tasked with staying close to Him to rightly discern the words of truth and to assemble together, stirring one another to love and noble deeds. This blessing of unity, especially during this Feast, connects us to His purpose, as we work diligently to grow closer to His holiness. Each blessing is singularly tailored to us, and we must recognize and cherish them, understanding that God sees the end from the beginning, always moving us toward His plan. We are to redeem the time wisely, faithfully tending and keeping these extraordinary blessings within Christ's work of sanctifying His church. His blessings are custom-made for each of us, and the sooner we recognize them, especially during this holy time, the more joyfully productive our lives will be as we prepare together for the perfection of being holy as God is holy.
Give God Something to Bless
Sermonette by Hunter D. SwansonWe are not puppets whom God and Satan are fighting to take control over. We are fighting carnal nature and must always take action to give our hearts to God.
According to the Blessing
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughBecause we do not have an abundance of material blessings, we are gently forced to go back to Almighty God for our sustenance, much the same way as Israel.
Passover of the Most High God
'Ready Answer' by David C. GrabbeGod's blessing is intricately woven into the fabric of His relationship with His people, as seen through the title Most High, first mentioned in connection with Passover. The Most High, described as the possessor of heaven and earth, demonstrates a profound care and concern for His possessions, far beyond mere ownership. His governance in human affairs springs from a will and purpose that are inherently good, even when not fully understood by humanity. Whenever Scripture employs the title Most High, it portrays God blessing His people with whatever they need to fulfill His perfect will, whether it be knowledge, physical provision, or defense and deliverance from enemies. His personal involvement is a hallmark of this blessing, ensuring that His people are equipped to achieve His divine plan. The Most High's blessing is evident in His active intervention, such as delivering Abraham's enemies into his hand, showcasing His deep interest in human affairs. He shows Himself strong on behalf of His people and judges the unrighteous, providing protection and deliverance as recurring themes associated with this title. This blessing extends to spiritual battles, offering protection and forgiveness to those who seek it, countering the unseen forces that attempt to sow division and doubt among His people. The Most High also aids in the internal struggle against the carnal nature, granting victory where human effort alone would fail. Furthermore, the ultimate blessing of the Most High is seen in the provision of His Son, Jesus Christ, as the Lamb without blemish, who delivers His people from sin and even from the last enemy, death. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He paves the way for others to follow, ensuring victory over death through the promise of resurrection. The title Most High, tied to the context of Passover, underscores the immense blessing this occasion represents, as it embodies His active possession of heaven and earth and His governance in the affairs of those He has called, leading them to triumph.
The High Priest's Blessing
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeRooted in Old Testament tradition and fulfilled in the New Testament, priestly blessing serves as a fundamental expression of divine grace, protection, and relationship. Leviticus 9 depicts Aaron's initial priestly act of raising his hands to bless Israel on the eighth day of consecration, establishing a pattern of priestly blessing that echoes Melchizedek's invocation over Abram and finds its textual blueprint in the Aaronic blessing of Numbers 6. This sacred pronouncement—promising God's covenantal abundance, protective guardianship, unmerited favor, perpetual presence, and perfect shalom—reaches its ultimate fulfillment in Luke 24, where Jesus Christ, acting as the true High Priest after His resurrection, raises His hands to pronounce an enduring, superabundant blessing upon all believers as He ascends to heaven.
What is the True Meaning of 'Blessed'?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsBiblical blessing transcends material wealth. Jesus blessed the poor, mourners, and persecuted, excluding the comfortably rich.
Do You See God Working in You?
Sermon by Kim MyersIt is vital to our conversion to see God working in our lives each day. If we do not see Him working with us, we will not believe what He says, leading to poor choices and liberties with His laws and commandments. Job endured unimaginable trials because he could see God working in his life from a young age, giving him the faith to withstand severe losses and personal suffering. God works with us in good times and through very severe trials, always present in our lives. We must look for Him as we live, to have the faith Job had, recognizing His presence even amidst tragedy. The more we pray and study, the more we see God working in our lives, and the more we desire to please Him by keeping His laws and commandments. This creates a continuous circle: seeing God at work inspires more prayer and study, which in turn deepens our recognition of His involvement. God is with us all the time, in both good and bad moments, and we must be astute enough to perceive His actions. When we clearly see God working in our lives, it strengthens our belief in Him and motivates us to obey, mirroring the obedience we desire from our own children. Failure to see God working in our lives leads to justification of disobedience, causing us to stray from His ways. If we are not striving to live a holy life through prayer and study, we cannot see God at work, blinding us to His presence. Living outside this circle of prayer, study, and recognition results in poor choices that bring misery. However, by engaging in this cycle, we grow in belief and desire to please Him, receiving blessings as a result. God is indeed working in all our lives, and we must be discerning enough to recognize Him as He works with us.
God's Love and Teachings for His Children
Sermon by Kim MyersThe relationship between God and His children forms the foundation of every blessing described here. Because believers have been born into God's Family through baptism, they possess access to power, love, and provision that the world cannot claim. This is illustrated through the pattern of a parent teaching a child—just as one teaches only one's own children to ride a bike, swim, or drive, God teaches and equips only His own children in His ways, distinguishing them from the world. A central blessing is that "all things are possible" for God's children, since nothing is too hard for Him, and He empowers believers through Christ. This counters common human statements of defeat—"it's impossible," "I can't do it," "I'm not able"—all of which are shown to be false for those who belong to God. Scriptural promises affirm that God gives strength, multiplies power to the weary, and infuses believers with capability through Christ. God's blessing also includes freedom from fear, since He has given a spirit of power, love, and self-control rather than timidity. Believers are urged to trust the Father who watches over them constantly, never sleeping or slumbering, and to rest in confidence even amid trials such as pandemics or future prophesied events, because their Father goes with them and will not forsake them. Love is another dimension of this blessing—God's love is so vast that He gave His Son for the world, and this love is intensified toward His own children, who are betrothed to Him, adopted as sons and daughters, and called His treasured possession. A personal account of a critically ill infant recovering completely after anointing illustrates how God nurtures and builds faith and trust in His children, especially early in conversion, similar to how parents build trust in young children. Blessing also includes the gift of the Holy Spirit, described as every spiritual blessing in heavenly places, given to those chosen before the foundation of the world. This inheritance sets believers apart from Satan's followers, who lack such power. Believers are also called heirs with Christ, though this inheritance includes sharing in suffering as well as glory. Trials, correction, and suffering are acknowledged as part of this blessed relationship, since God corrects those He loves, as a father disciplines a son. Yet even suffering is framed as worthwhile, since present struggles are incomparable to future glory, when the righteous will shine like the sun and be openly acknowledged as God's sons and daughters. Finally, this blessing carries responsibility: rather than remaining inwardly focused on personal fears and doubts, God's children are instructed to direct their concern outward—edifying one another, living peaceably, supporting the weak, rejoicing, and giving thanks in all things. This outward focus reflects the mature character expected of those who recognize themselves as true children of God, secure in His love, protection, and promises.
Giving Flows From the Focused Work of God
Sermonette byIf God's people keep their focus upon His purpose for them as outlined by His Holy Days, they will be able to accomplish the work God has given them.
Blessings We Could Have Had
Sermon by Kim MyersDespite Abraham's loyalty to God's covenant, Abraham's offspring have violated this covenant, thanklessly squandering the blessings and reaping curses.
God Never Disappoints
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThere is no disappointment with God. His purpose for life remains unshaken, even in the face of human struggles. According to Scripture, those who trust in Him are never disillusioned or disappointed, as hope in Him does not disappoint. God assures that those who wait for Him will not be ashamed, meaning they will not face disappointment. The gospel, the message of the coming Kingdom of God, salvation, and eternal life, carries the power of God, producing supernatural results wherever it is preached. This power does not disappoint, transforming lives and satisfying the deepest spiritual longings. God also guarantees the spiritual deposits entrusted to Him. Unlike human systems that fail, He has the power to keep what is committed to Him, whether it be faith for salvation or the character traits being developed. His ability to guard these deposits is certain, and He pays spectacular dividends through blessings such as love, joy, and peace that surpasses understanding. These blessings, often unexpected, serve as evidence of His care and guardianship. Furthermore, Christ will be magnified in the lives of believers, whether through life or death. God's determination to exalt His Son extends to those united to Him by faith, ensuring that His will is perfect and ultimately works for their salvation. This confidence in God's plan allows believers to trust Him even amidst trials, knowing that Christ is magnified through His saints and that His purpose will be accomplished.
The Faithfulness of God (Part Two)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God established permanent patterns, electing Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as well as all of those He has called. This election should be our obsession.
Cleansing God's People
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeHaggai received the last two prophecies on the same day. Haggai 2:10 and 20 identify that day as the twenty-fourth day of the ninth month, called Kislev.
One Nation Under God (Part Two)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe need to follow Nehemiah's example in submitting to God, focusing on the right goals, having wisdom in handling complex situations, and having courage.
A Motivation for Giving
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)When Paul attempted to motivate the Corinthians, he compared them to the Philippians, who were more generous with what they had than the richer Corinthians.
Simple Gifts: American Reflection
Commentary by Mark SchindlerLiberty cannot exist without morality, or morality without faith. Today, humanists are destroying God's 'simple gifts' that made America exceptional.
The Sabbath: Redemption
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod has blessed us with the Sabbath, a period of holy time, when He redeems us from the clutches of our carnality and this evil world.
Numbers (Part One): Journey in the Desert
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod never says the Christian life would be easy or that life would always be fair. Difficulties and tests are given to test our hearts and promote humility.
Are You Living the Abundant Life?
'Ready Answer' by Richard T. RitenbaughNon-Christians tend to see Christianity as an utterly boring, rigid way of life. However, Jesus says He came to give His disciples abundant life. Here's how.
Offerings and Taxes
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughDeuteronomy 16:16 does not specify the exact amount of the offering, but does ask us to make a thoughtful recollection of the benefits received from God.
The Love of Money
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughThe context for the oft-misquoted 'money is the root of all evil' is a warning against ministers who wish to enrich themselves using the pretext of God's Word.
The Ultimate Gift
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerPaul reveals God's plan to save all Israel (Romans 11:25-36); the ultimate gift to His saints is the ability to help in the reconciliation process.
Tithing
Sermon by John O. ReidThis comprehensive overview of tithing explores the attitudes we should have toward tithing, the purposes of the tithe, and the benefits of tithing.
Whatever Your Heart Desires
Sermonette by Ryan McClureGod's instruction to spend second tithe on 'whatever your heart desires' is not merely permission to enjoy His blessings; it is a revealing test.
Isaac
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe name Isaac—'laughter'—suggests his optimistic disposition, someone not afflicted by fear and doubt. Isaac serves as a type of Christ, honoring his father.
Thanksgiving
'Ready Answer' by StaffHere is why we should be thankful, how much we have to be thankful for, and how we can give God our thanks.
The Beatitudes, Part Two: Poor in Spirit
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughWhat is it to be poor in spirit? This attribute is foundational to Christian living. Those who are truly poor in spirit are on the road to true spiritual riches.
The Quest for Happiness
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsHappiness is the result of faithfully keeping God's Covenant, ensuring peace, prosperity, and an abundant life. The world's joy only disappoints in the end.