Too Blessed To Be Stressed

Pastor Kevin Rutledge - 6/11/2023 10:00 AM

Somewhere along the way, it became popular to think that people of faith cannot endure stress, or anxiety, or be vulnerable in any way. The beatitudes turn the world right side up and announce that those who are truly blessed by God are not who the world believes are blessed.  In this, we find our hope that Christ is with us in the midst of our street, and our anxiety, and even blesses us in our vulnerability.  The task of Christians is not to let those feeling overwhelm us to the point where we are hopeless or immobilized.

Scripture:

  • First Reading: Psalm 69:1-3,13-16
  • Second Reading: Matthew 5:1-12
View Order of Worship

This Week's Reading Plan

Day: Reading:
Monday Lessons of Humility and Servant Leadership: John 13:1-17
Tuesday Betrayal, Loyalty, and the Disciples' Response: John 13:18-38
Wednesday Promises and Assurance from Jesus: John 14:1-14
Thursday The Holy Spirit's Promise and Jesus' Love: John 14:15-31
Friday Abiding in Jesus: The Vine and the Branches: John 15:1-17
Saturday Facing Opposition and Finding Encouragement: John 15:18-16:4
Sunday Victory over the World: Finding Peace in Christ: John 16:29-33

This includes only the sermon portion of the service.

Reflections and Caring Conversations

Please use the prompts and prayers below to aid you in your devotions for this week.

  • Evening Prayer: Heavenly Father, as the day comes to a close, I surrender all my worries, anxieties, and stresses into Your loving hands. Help me remember that I am blessed by You and that You are with me in the midst of every trial. Grant me the strength to trust in Your provision and find peace in Your presence. Amen.

  • Reflection Question 1: How do you define and understand true blessings in your life? Are there areas where your perspective on blessings may differ from the world's view?

  • Reflection Question 2: In what ways have you experienced stress, anxiety, or vulnerability recently? How did you perceive God's presence and blessings during those times?

  • Reflection Question 3: Consider the concept of surrendering your worries and anxieties to God. Are there any specific concerns or burdens that you need to release to Him? How can you cultivate a deeper trust in His provision and guidance?

  • Reflection Question 4: How can you incorporate the principles of the Beatitudes into your daily life? What steps can you take to live as a blessed and peace-filled follower of Christ, even in the midst of stress and challenges?

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