Summary
Pastor Joshua Kennedy delivered a message on spiritual renewal from Zephaniah 3:9-20, emphasizing the need for personal encounters with God that transform the heart, not just head knowledge. The sermon was preceded by Martha Dejon sharing her powerful testimony of a divine encounter where God physically embraced her in a dream, demonstrating His unconditional love. The message highlighted how true spiritual renewal comes through intimate relationship with God, requiring us to examine our hearts, surrender our troubles to Him, and prioritize time in His presence. Pastor Kennedy emphasized that our internal troubles, not external circumstances, are the root of our struggles, and that God's love and presence can heal generational wounds and transform our lives completely.
Ice Breaker
What is one simple thing that brings you comfort or peace when you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed?
Key Verses
Hebrews 4:12
John 3:16
Zephaniah 3:15
Joshua 1:8
Matthew 19:26
Questions
Martha shared about her powerful encounter with God in a dream. Have you ever had a moment where you felt God's presence in a very real and personal way? How did it impact you?
Pastor Kennedy mentioned that we often focus on the gifts of God more than the giver. What are some ways we might make spiritual gifts or religious activities into idols instead of focusing on our relationship with God?
The message emphasized that our internal troubles, not external circumstances, are the root of our struggles. How does this perspective change the way we approach difficulties in our lives?
What does it mean to 'meditate on the Word day and night' as mentioned in Joshua 1:8? How can we practically live this out in our daily
routines?
Pastor Kennedy talked about the importance of examining our schedules and spending to see what we truly prioritize. What would an
honest look at your time and resources reveal about your priorities?
The sermon mentioned that 'hurting people hurt people' and that we need to get whole before we can effectively help others. How can we pursue our own healing while still being available to serve others?
Martha's dream included a vision of a plane crash, representing people who need salvation. How does having a close relationship with God motivate us to reach out to others who are struggling?
The message concluded with an invitation to come to the altar for cleansing and renewal. What are some practical ways we can create 'altar moments' in our daily lives where we surrender to God?
Life Application
This week, commit to spending at least 15 minutes each morning in quiet time with God before checking your phone or starting your daily activities. Use this time to 'soak' in His presence through prayer, worship, or meditating on a single Bible verse. Ask God to reveal any internal troubles or areas of your heart that need His healing touch, and surrender them to Him daily.
Key Takeaways
True spiritual transformation comes from heart encounters with God, not just head knowledge about Him
Our internal troubles and unhealed wounds are often the root cause of our external struggles and conflicts
God desires an intimate, loving relationship with each of us, wanting to hold us, heal us, and renew us daily
Spiritual renewal requires intentional time in God's presence through prayer, worship, and meditation on His Word
We must examine our priorities and make time for the things that truly matter - our relationship with God comes first
Growing spiritually takes a daily personal walk with God and a gathering together in fellowship with other believers.
Our corporate gathering is for equipping the saints, but meeting in small groups allows regular individual
participation so that personal needs can be addressed.
Small groups also foster growth in ministering the gifts of the Holy Spirit, accountability, and the support
necessary to be a healthy member of the family of God.
The leadership of Praise Tabernacle has encouraged group leaders to be missional and evangelistic
in their approach to leading these groups.
The ultimate goal is Kingdom Expansion.
Egg Harbor Township
Wednesday Nights @ 6:30 pm - Andy & Lori Holman's home -
1st & 3rd Wednesday Nights @ 7:00 pm - Terry & Sue Luma's home -
Mays Landing
1st Wednesdays, 7 pm - Host: Pastor Josh & Loraine Kennedy;
3rd Wednesdays, 7 pm - Host: Matt & Elise Lucas;
4th Wednesday, 7 pm - Host: Caleb & Tahlia Wilkes;
Reach out to Pastor Josh if you have any questions: (609) 402-8869
Egg Harbor City
2nd & 4th Wednesday Nights @ 6:30pm - Eddie Aponte's home -
Galloway
2nd & 4th Wednesday Nights @ 6:30pm -Greg & Regina's home
Ocean View
Sunday Nights (Every 1st & 3rd) @ 6pm - Joanne Utt's Home -
