Beyond the Weekend: EPIC
Stories of Trust, Failure and Faith That Point to Jesus
What does it look like to believe God, not just believe in God? This fall, we're diving into the raw, unfiltered stories of biblical heroes who wrestled with doubt, took dangerous detours, and discovered that trusting God means following him even when you can't see the outcome. Their epic journeys of trust, failure and faith all point to the ultimate hero—Jesus.
Key Messaging Points:
- There's a difference between believing in God and believing God
- God speaks in life's detours and disruptions
- Wrestling with God transforms us
- Trusting God means obeying before you see the outcome
- Every story of human struggle points to Jesus
A Trusting Heart
Read: Psalm 142 Listen: Psalm 142
I cry to you, Lord; I say, “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.” Psalm 142:5
Saul observes David’s favor from the people and the Lord. After David kills Goliath, the people sing, “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands” (1 Samuel 18:7). Jealousy begins its vicious work in Saul’s heart. Saul attempts to kill David multiple times. But David evades the king for roughly a decade as Saul pursues him in the wilderness. Discouraged and lonely, David cries out to the Lord, “I have no refuge; no one cares for my life” (Psalm 142:4). David has no physical stronghold to turn to, and yet he continues, “You are my refuge.” When David has nowhere to retreat, he trusts God will be his safe place.
We, too, face times when we have no asylum from our circumstances. We may face a challenging diagnosis, strained relationships, or another closed door for employment. And it feels like there is no one left to rely on. In these seasons, we can find refuge in God. God provides the only security that can withstand any storm. At our loneliest and lowest, we can find peace and strength in God’s unwavering shelter.
TODAY: We memorize scripture so we can recall it not just in our present circumstances but in future battles. Memorize Psalm 142:5 to internalize the truth of God’s security. Whether you are in the middle of a storm or a season of peace, let this truth remind you of the ever-available haven found in God.
