January 2025 Sermon Takeaways:
Refuge – God’s Got You!
Throughout the month of January, our sermon series, Refuge - God's Got You, focused on the comforting truth that no matter what challenges we face, God is our ultimate refuge and defender. Each message reinforced the idea that, in times of uncertainty, we can find peace and security in His care.
Sermon Summary and takeaways:
Safetown: A City that Hides Yet Reveals
The first sermon emphasized on two of God’s attributes – being merciful and just. As He instructed Joshua to designate cities of refuge for anyone who kills unintentionally from the avenger of the blood (Joshua 20:1-3), this reminds us that He forgives our sins, and He is also just in His judgment.
Takeaway:
“Our God is a merciful and righteous judge. We may unintentionally make mistakes but, we can trust that we can always find forgiveness and protection in Him.”
Refuge: God’s shelter in a restless world
We explored how the world is becoming restless with the busyness of life. And this constantly bombards us with stress, fear and anxiety. But we are not alone in these circumstances, because God is our refuge, and He is not our temporary shelter. We can dwell in His presence. “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” (Psalms 91:1 NLT)
Takeaway:
“In moments of stress, fear and anxiety, we are reminded that God is our refuge. Ready to be our safe place where we can find comfort and peace beyond our understanding.”
Jesus: The Rock of Salvation
The third message focused on Jesus being our Rock of Salvation. He is the stronghold therefore, our firm foundation we can rely on. And it is important for His followers to have a strong foundation and a solid rock in their lives.
Takeaway:
“Having a strong foundation and a solid rock in Jesus Christ gives us a firm stand on how we should live our lives.”
Spiritual Maturity: Firm Foundation
The final sermon of the series highlighted the growth and maturity of Christians in their spiritual journey with Jesus Christ. That as Christians who aim to be more like Christ, we can also stand as ‘refuge’ for other people. And that followers of Christ can gauge its spiritual maturity by exhibition of the fruits (Galatians 5:22-23).
Takeaways:
“Spiritual maturity is about becoming more Christ-like, not just doing more for Him.”
“A spiritually mature person seeks God’s will, remains steadfast in trials, and continually grows in understanding and obedience to His Word.”
“Being spiritually mature is to evolve ourselves to be more integrated and devoted to God. To nurture our attitude as learning Christians.”
Overall, we were reminded that God is our constant refuge – our fortress, stronghold, solid rock, place of safety and comfort, firm foundation, source of peace in any season of life we may be in. As we step into the rest of the year, let’s continue to trust and be confident that God’s got us! His refuge is ever-present, and He is always working on us, providing protection, strength, and rest we need to navigate life’s challenges.
Let’s carry this assurance with us and seek refuge in Him daily.