Morning Service Live Stream
This week's service features a moving celebration of global missions and an encouraging message exploring the sovereignty and providence of God. Continuing through the book of Genesis, the sermon examines the dysfunctional family dynamic of Jacob’s sons, the betrayal of Joseph, and how God uses broken, imperfect people to accomplish His redemptive plan. The message challenges every believer to stop letting past mistakes hold them back and instead step forward into active, purposeful service for the Kingdom.
Service Breakdown
- Missions Celebration & Worship: The service opens with a presentation honoring church sponsors matched with children from El Oregonal, Guatemala, through Children’s HopeChest. The congregation joins in uplifting worship, praising God with traditional hymns including "He Keeps Me Singing" (#746) and "Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus" (#730).
- Bible Reading & Pastoral Prayer: A scripture reading from Psalm 76:1–12 highlights the victorious power and majestic majesty of God, followed by prayer for our nation, community, and the ongoing work of the Gospel.
- Children’s Corner: The children's lesson explores Ecclesiastes 3:1–11 ("to everything there is a season"). Kids are reminded that while seasons, circumstances, and people will constantly change, God never changes—and He can turn even the toughest chapters of life into something beautiful.
- The Message: Preaching from Genesis 37:24–36, the sermon examines Joseph being cast into a dry cistern and sold into slavery by his brothers. The message tackles the vital question: "Can God still use me?" Through the lens of God's providence (His guiding hand through life's everyday choices and hardships) and His absolute sovereignty (His unstoppable redemptive plan), the sermon reveals how God works through messy, flawed individuals to fulfill His holy purposes.
Key Moments & Themes
- The Match Event for Children’s HopeChest: Church members receive photo cards revealing the children in Guatemala who selected them as prayer sponsors, celebrating a tangible commitment to making disciples across borders.
- God Works Through Imperfect People: From Joseph's envious brothers to the messy lineage of the twelve tribes of Israel, Scripture is filled with flawed human beings. The sermon emphasizes that God doesn't wait for perfection—He looks for availability.
- Providence vs. Sovereignty: Even when Joseph faced betrayal, abandonment, and slavery, God was actively working behind the scenes. God's providential care walks with us through our valleys, while His sovereign plan cannot be thwarted by human failures or schemes.
- Trading Excuses for Service: Believers are urged to stop hiding behind past mistakes, perceived inadequacies, or the enemy's accusations. When we make ourselves available, God provides the "how" and brings deep fulfillment to our walk with Him.
Call to Action
The sermon closes with a powerful challenge: Stop asking if God can use you, and start asking how He wants to use you today. Whether serving in the nursery, singing in the choir, or ministering to a neighbor in need, step out in faith and make your gifts available for God's glory. If you have not yet placed your trust in Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, let today be your day of salvation.
