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Distress of Nations
Sermonette by Clyde FinkleaBefore Christ's return, we will see dramatic signs in the heavens, while on earth distress of nations and uprisings will be symbolized by roaring waves.
Overcoming Troubled Hearts (Part One)
CGG Weekly by Clyde FinkleaWith His crucifixion before Him and His departure from this life near at hand, Jesus encouraged His disciples with some final help for troubled hearts.
Be Anxious For Nothing
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughFear and anxiety are normal human emotions. But through changing our focus from earthly to heavenly things, we can rise above the concerns, remembering Who is with us.
Psalm Genres (Part Four): Laments
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughLife is often marked by distress, a reality that touches every individual without exception. Storms of trouble and trial are not mere occasional rainfalls but frequent and relentless challenges that define much of human existence. The struggles between people compound these difficulties, multiplying tribulations as we navigate a world shared with billions of others. Historical voices echo this sentiment, portraying life as a series of sorrows, a lesson in humility, and a balance of enduring much while enjoying little. In the face of such pervasive distress, even wealth offers no true refuge; grief and loss remain inevitable as loved ones pass and circumstances falter. Solomon, in his wisdom, observed that it is through woes and hard times that we gain deeper understanding and growth, far more than during periods of ease and laughter. These challenging moments force us to reflect on life's purpose, our goals, and the reasons behind our suffering, compelling us to seek wisdom amid sorrow. The Psalms, with their numerous laments, openly acknowledge this fundamental reality of human distress. Rather than concealing the struggles we endure, they bring suffering into sharp focus, offering a space to voice pain and seek divine aid. These laments, whether individual or communal, often arise from physical illness, false accusations, persecution, warfare, or any form of distress, frequently combining multiple afflictions at once. They serve as appeals to God for rescue, reflecting the raw and unhidden difficulties of life. Through the structure of these lament psalms, a pattern emerges where distress is expressed through cries to God, detailed complaints of crises, petitions for help, statements of confidence in divine intervention, and ultimately, vows or expressions of praise. This movement from despair to hope illustrates a transformative journey, showing that even in the darkest trials, trust in God can lead to a positive outlook. An example like Psalm 64 reveals this shift, as the psalmist moves from fear of enemies to assurance that God will turn their malice back upon them, ending in gladness and trust in Him. Similarly, Psalm 44 captures a communal lament after a devastating defeat, tracing a thought process from recalling past divine deliverances to perplexity over current abandonment, asserting faithfulness despite suffering, and finally, trusting in future victory. Even without immediate resolution, the psalm ends with raw faith, acknowledging that God's timing and mercy will prevail, regardless of present distress. This enduring trust amidst unresolved trials offers a template for facing severe challenges, holding fast to belief in God's ultimate purpose and intervention.
Psalms: Book Five (Part Two): Psalms of Ascents
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughMore space is devoted to the reign of Hezekiah than any other king, in part because of his example of repentance after the news of his impending death.
The God of All Comfort
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeIf we failed to receive comfort in our formative years, we still have the God of all comforts as our Father, as well as Christ, who heals and comforts us.
For the Love of God
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloWe are royalty, part of the highest Family in all creation. We can take great comfort in knowing who it is we really are and that the Father greatly values us.
God's Rest (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLust begets a guilty conscience, agitation, anxiety, depression, grief, torment. Wrong desire leads to lying, adultery, and murder—eventually leading to death.
Love and Fellowship
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughFellowship with God is the only antidote to overwhelming feelings of despair, doubt, and self-condemnation.
The Present Harvest (Part Two)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)Christ empowers His disciples to preach and heal. He is saying there will be an incomplete work of healing and preaching in the run-up to His return.
The 'Rest' of Hebrews 4
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIf we patiently endure, trusting in God's faithfulness to bring us to completion, there will be a time when we will attain the rest we desperately yearn for.
Persecution
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAlthough many have gone through sore trials, virtually no one has gone through the nightmarish persecutions suffered by the early Christians in Imperial Rome.
Acts (Part Nineteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughPaul encountered persecution but also saw his work bear fruit. He was driven from the synagogue, but paradoxically won over its leader, Crispus.