Circumstances
In the Bible, the term "circumstances" does not appear explicitly as a single concept but can be understood through various passages that discuss the context and situations faced by individuals and communities. Circumstances often refer to the specific conditions or events that surround a person's life and decisions, which can significantly impact their faith and actions. For example, in Philippians 4:11-13, the Apostle Paul speaks of being content in all circumstances, whether in need or abundance, highlighting how external situations can influence one's spiritual state and reliance on God.Furthermore, the Bible often emphasizes the sovereignty of God over human circumstances. In Romans 8:28, it states, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." This verse illustrates that, regardless of the circumstances, God is actively working through them for the benefit of His people, encouraging believers to trust in His divine plan and providence. Thus, while circumstances may vary widely and can be challenging, they are ultimately framed within the larger narrative of God's purpose and presence in the lives of His followers.
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Living Above Our Circumstances
By Richard Sipley1.0K40:45HEB 12:1HEB 12:41PE 2:191PE 2:21In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes the importance of our reactions to the circumstances of life rather than the circumstances themselves. He uses the example of a Christian family with multiple children who are raised in the same environment but turn out differently due to their reactions. The pastor encourages the congregation to react with patience, using Jesus as an example of enduring and reacting patiently to his circumstances. He references Hebrews 12:1, urging believers to lay aside unnecessary weights and sin and run with patience the race set before them.
When God Takes Away Familiar Things
By Carter Conlon2.9K52:08ISA 43:18MAT 6:33MAT 16:21MAT 16:24MAT 17:12CO 5:17PHP 3:13In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes the danger of becoming too familiar and comfortable in our spiritual lives. He shares a story of a pastor who relied on a candy to determine the length of his sermons, but one day found himself running out of material before the candy melted. In his desperation, the pastor cried out to God and the Holy Spirit gave him revelation, leading to a powerful move of God in the church. The pastor warns against becoming prisoners of familiarity and encourages listeners to seek fresh encounters with God rather than relying on familiar routines.
Living Above the Circumstances
By William MacDonald1.3K39:39MAT 6:28EPH 6:10PHP 1:12PHP 4:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of finding spiritual lessons in everyday life. He mentions how the apostle Paul found spiritual significance in the armor of a Roman guard, seeing it as a representation of Christian character. The speaker also mentions how Paul was content and had a positive attitude even in difficult circumstances, drawing a parallel to missionaries who faced hardships in Istanbul. He shares an anecdote about C.T. Studd, who found joy and contentment in living in Africa despite challenging conditions. The speaker concludes by encouraging listeners to see the sermon in everything around them, just as Jesus taught to consider the lilies of the field.