Message: “You are living in a foreign land so what happens now” from Joe Summers
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CloseJoe Summers - September 3, 2023
You are living in a foreign land so what happens now
You are living in a foreign land so what happens now Lesson Objective: To discuss the challenges in living in a foreign land and your response using Biblical references Scripture: **: Daniel 6:10-11 - "Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before." A. Challenges living in a foreign land Learning a different language Different food Different customs B. The Prophet Daniel Language- Daniel learned the language Part of Daniel was written in Aramaic Chapters 2-7 inclusive Part of Ezra also written in Aramaic Chapters 4-7 (Majority) Different food Scripture**: Daniel 1:8-16 - "But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way... At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food." Different Customs Scripture**: Daniel 6:10-11 - "Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before." Did not forget where he came from Influence and Integrity**: - Scripture: Daniel 6:4-5 - "At this, the administrators and the satraps tried to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs, but they were unable to do so. They could find no corruption in him because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent." Scripture: Daniel 2:27-28 - "Daniel replied, 'No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries.'" - Daniel always credited God for his wisdom and insights, showcasing his humility and faith. The cup bearer Nehemiah Prayerful Petition -Scripture: Nehemiah 1:4-11 - "When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven... Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man (King Artaxerxes)." Nehemiah's immediate response to distressing news was to turn to God in prayer, showcasing his deep faith. Leadership and Organization- Man of Action: Scripture**: Nehemiah 3 - This chapter details how Nehemiah organized the rebuilding of the walls, assigning different families and groups specific sections to repair. Courage in the Face of Opposition: Scripture**: Nehemiah 4:7-9 - "But when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites and the people of Ashdod heard that the repairs to Jerusalem’s walls had gone ahead... they were very angry. They all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and stir up trouble against it. But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat." - Nehemiah's reliance on both prayer and practical action in the face of opposition is evident here. Both Daniel and Nehemiah's stories are filled with instances where their faith in God guided their actions and decisions. Their commitment to God's laws, even in foreign lands, serves as a testament to their unwavering faith and dedication. Other examples in the Bible **Joseph**:- **Scripture**: Genesis 39:2-3 - "The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did..." Background: Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers and ended up in Egypt. He faced numerous challenges, from being falsely accused by Potipar's wife to being imprisoned. Faith in Foreign Land: Despite these adversities, Joseph remained faithful to God. His ability to interpret dreams led him to a position of power in Pharaoh's court. When famine struck, he was instrumental in not only saving Egypt but also his own family from starvation. Naomi- Women of Faith: Scripture: Ruth 1:16 - "But Ruth replied, 'Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.'" Ruth saw something in Naomi that made her want to remain with Naomi and make such an oath. Conclusion—So What These individuals, among others in the Bible, exemplify how faith can be maintained and even thrive in foreign or hostile environments. Their stories inspire believers to hold onto their faith regardless of external circumstances. 1. Grow your faith 2. Be a lamp to others 3. Have an inner circle for support 4. Continue in prayer 5. Be strong and courageous and never deny Christ
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