The Faithfulness Of God
Introduction
In today’s fast-paced and unpredictable world, anxiety, sorrow, and a sense of defeat can easily creep into our lives. As Pastor Abel Rivera reminds us, even amid trials and disappointments, there is hope and satisfaction to be found in one place above all: the faithfulness of God. Drawing from his own journey and experiences within the church, Pastor Abel shares powerful insights from Psalm 63, offering deep encouragement for anyone seeking strength and stability.
What Should We Do When We’re In Trouble?
Last week, Pastor Abel reflected on a question posed by Pastor Omar: “What should we do when we’re in trouble?” The answer is wrapped in three simple but profound steps:
Ask honestly
Trust confidently
Ask boldly
These approaches guide believers to draw near to God, especially during challenging moments.
Testimonies of Hope Amid Trials
Pastor Abel was raised in the church, hearing countless testimonies of people finding salvation in Christ. These stories are often filled with pain, sorrow, and helplessness. However, what stands out is the unwavering hope that arises, rooted in trust in God’s faithfulness and promises. Despite the unpredictable turns of life, God’s promises are an anchor for those who hold onto them.
Facing Life’s Challenges
Most people tend to struggle more with emotions that bring pain and disappointment than with those that bring joy. Anxiety, grief, feelings of failure, and depression are common experiences. While the world offers countless solutions, Pastor Abel highlights the unique hope found in God—even when faith in humanity seems gutted and bitterness threatens to extinguish happiness. In such times, people may withdraw from friends and even from God, feeling isolated in their suffering.
God’s Invitation to Abundant Life
Psalm 63 serves as Pastor Abel’s foundation for this message. No matter where you are in your understanding of Scripture or what life throws at you, God longs to fill you with a desire to read His word and experience an abundant life. The Holy Spirit wants to speak directly to your heart through Scripture, guiding you to a deeper appreciation of God’s faithfulness.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways, know Him, and He will make your path straight.”
David’s Example in Psalm 63
In Psalm 63, King David is found in the wilderness, fleeing for his life as his son Absalom leads a rebellion. Despite these desperate circumstances, David is not consumed by despair. Instead, he turns his attention fully to God’s faithfulness, expressing deep longing for God and confidence that divine rescue can satisfy his soul.
David’s response in the midst of suffering demonstrates that knowing and living in relationship with God is more valuable than anything else. Even when life is painful and disappointing, David’s soul finds contentment in God.
Three Key Questions for Spiritual Growth
Pastor Abel structures his message around three questions from Psalm 63:
What does it mean to seek after God’s faithfulness?
Seeking God is about having an intimate, personal relationship with Him. David doesn’t refer to the “God of Abraham” or the “God of Moses”—he calls out, “God, you are my God.” This intimacy goes beyond mere information; it is a committed, personal connection.
What does a person who seeks God’s faithfulness look like?
Such a person is satisfied, filled with joy, and possesses strength and stability. Even when surrounded by turmoil and threats, David declares, “You satisfy me as with rich food. My mouth will praise you with joyful lips.” He rejoices in the shadows of God’s wings and is upheld by God’s powerful hand.
How does a person seek after God’s faithfulness?
By putting love for God at the center of your relationship, spending consistent time alone with Him, and integrating Him into every area of your life. David “clings” to God, recognizing that any ability to hold on comes from God’s sustaining power. This relationship requires passion, commitment, and intentional pursuit.
Avoiding Complacency
A crucial warning from Pastor Abel: spiritual complacency—coasting on past achievements or spiritual maturity—is a deadly foe to growth. We must continually seek after God; there’s always more of Him to know and experience.
Integrating God Into Every Aspect of Life
God doesn’t want to be limited to just Sunday mornings or church involvement. Every decision, relationship, and even how we handle our resources should reflect His central role in our lives. David’s life, even when his kingdom was in disarray, kept God at its core.
Encouragement and Final Thoughts
Seeking God’s faithfulness is essential for every believer. It’s more than accepting Jesus into your heart—it’s about living for Him daily and enjoying an intimate relationship with Him through prayer, Scripture reading, fellowship, and worship. As we pursue God, His faithfulness transforms and sustains us through every circumstance.
Prayer
Pastor Abel closes with a heartfelt prayer—asking God to help us seek Him earnestly, to recognize our need for Him, and to let our lives become songs of praise for His great name.
Conclusion
No matter where you find yourself today—dry, desolate, or full of disappointment—know that God’s faithfulness is not just a theological concept; it’s a living reality. Follow David’s example and let your heart be satisfied in God alone. Seek Him, trust Him, cling to Him—and find your joy and stability in His unwavering love.
Tags: Faithfulness of God, Psalm 63, Abel Rivera, Christian Encouragement, Spiritual Growth, Prayer, Sermon, Hope in Trials, Grove Church, Biblical Faithfulness
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