21 Days of Prayer & Fasting - Day 19
Day 19: Sermon Recap “David, The Friend"
Sermon Recap
This sermon emphasizes the greatness of God and the importance of lifting Him up through praise and worship. Pastor Michael A. Pender reminds the congregation that God's reliability and faithfulness require us to uphold our commitments, as God witnesses our actions and covenants in life. The message also highlights the significance of community involvement, encouraging attendees to explore various ministry opportunities available at Fallbrook Church. Lastly, the sermon reiterates the theme of trusting in God's strength and guidance, even when circumstances seem challenging, assuring the congregation that God can do the impossible and is always there as a refuge.
"You are the way when there seems to be no way; we trust in you, God, you have the final say."
This sermon emphasizes the greatness of God and the importance of lifting Him up through praise and worship. Pastor Michael A. Pender reminds the congregation that God's reliability and faithfulness require us to uphold our commitments, as God witnesses our actions and covenants in life. The message also highlights the significance of community involvement, encouraging attendees to explore various ministry opportunities available at Fallbrook Church. Lastly, the sermon reiterates the theme of trusting in God's strength and guidance, even when circumstances seem challenging, assuring the congregation that God can do the impossible and is always there as a refuge.
"You are the way when there seems to be no way; we trust in you, God, you have the final say."
points to consider
How does viewing everyday agreements (like loans, leases, and commitments) as “covenants” witnessed by God change the way you approach your word, your integrity, and your follow-through?
It reframes “small” commitments as spiritual matters, not just legal or personal preferences. Talk about where you tend to justify delay or shortcuts and what it would look like to honor God by honoring your promises consistently. Consider one practical boundary or habit that could help you keep your word with greater faithfulness.
What does true friendship look like when you have influence or access, and why is it tempting to use relationships as “hookups” instead of accountability?
The sermon contrasts favor-based shortcuts with character-based living, doing what you’re supposed to do so you don’t need special access. Discuss times when you’ve benefited from proximity to power or felt pressure to bend standards for someone. Explore how a godly friend can open doors while still insisting on integrity and responsibility.
How should you respond when you feel “close to getting fired” or on the edge of losing something important, and what role do obedience and trust play in that moment?
A crisis exposes what you trust: connections, excuses, or God’s ways. Reflect on what “doing what you’re supposed to do” would mean in your current job, family, or ministry context, communication, diligence, repentance, or humility. Share how trusting God’s reliability can steady your decisions instead of panic or manipulation.
What does it look like in your life to treat God as the “number one witness” to your choices, and how does that reshape what you do when no one else is watching?
It invites a shift from performance for people to faithfulness before God. Discuss areas where private habits don’t match public worship—finances, speech, online behavior, or relationships. Identify one hidden place where inviting God’s presence would lead to a different decision this week.
How does worship, declaring God’s greatness and reliability, help you face “impossible” situations, and what changes when praise becomes your first response instead of your last resort?
Worship doesn’t deny the problem; it re-centers you on who God is—faithful, powerful, and trustworthy. Talk about a current situation that feels impossible and how praise could shift your perspective, emotions, and actions. Consider practical ways to build a rhythm of worship that strengthens your faith before the pressure hits.
It reframes “small” commitments as spiritual matters, not just legal or personal preferences. Talk about where you tend to justify delay or shortcuts and what it would look like to honor God by honoring your promises consistently. Consider one practical boundary or habit that could help you keep your word with greater faithfulness.
What does true friendship look like when you have influence or access, and why is it tempting to use relationships as “hookups” instead of accountability?
The sermon contrasts favor-based shortcuts with character-based living, doing what you’re supposed to do so you don’t need special access. Discuss times when you’ve benefited from proximity to power or felt pressure to bend standards for someone. Explore how a godly friend can open doors while still insisting on integrity and responsibility.
How should you respond when you feel “close to getting fired” or on the edge of losing something important, and what role do obedience and trust play in that moment?
A crisis exposes what you trust: connections, excuses, or God’s ways. Reflect on what “doing what you’re supposed to do” would mean in your current job, family, or ministry context, communication, diligence, repentance, or humility. Share how trusting God’s reliability can steady your decisions instead of panic or manipulation.
What does it look like in your life to treat God as the “number one witness” to your choices, and how does that reshape what you do when no one else is watching?
It invites a shift from performance for people to faithfulness before God. Discuss areas where private habits don’t match public worship—finances, speech, online behavior, or relationships. Identify one hidden place where inviting God’s presence would lead to a different decision this week.
How does worship, declaring God’s greatness and reliability, help you face “impossible” situations, and what changes when praise becomes your first response instead of your last resort?
Worship doesn’t deny the problem; it re-centers you on who God is—faithful, powerful, and trustworthy. Talk about a current situation that feels impossible and how praise could shift your perspective, emotions, and actions. Consider practical ways to build a rhythm of worship that strengthens your faith before the pressure hits.
prayer time
- May we honor the covenants we make, at work, at home, and in our finances living with integrity as people who remember God is a witness to our commitments.
- May we practice faithful friendship that refuses to rely on favoritism or shortcuts, choosing to do what is right even when relationships could make it easier to do otherwise.
- May we trust God as our strength and refuge in uncertain seasons, responding with worship and steady obedience instead of fear or complaining.
- May we commit to serving beyond ourselves by finding a place to contribute in the church community, turning admiration into action through consistent involvement.
- May we believe again that God can do the impossible, and take one courageous step today that aligns our decisions, habits, and relationships with that hope.
No Comments