In Process
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In Process
1. Unexpected Plans and God's Purpose
Sometimes things don’t happen the way we expect, and that can bring uncertainty or discomfort. But unexpected moments can actually be part of God’s plan. When our plans and God’s plans don’t align, it reveals the posture of our hearts. Those moments are opportunities to let go of control, thank God for His plan, and trust in His greater purpose.
2. Reflecting on the Past, Hoping for the Future
You made a choice to be here at church today—a great step into 2025. A new year often brings hope, resolutions, and goals. Whether or not you set resolutions or choose a word for the year, take time to reflect. What are you thankful for from 2024? What are you hopeful for in 2025? Consider your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual life as you answer these questions.
3. The Beauty of Being In Process
The title of this message is "In Process." Life is not about having everything figured out—we are all a work in progress. Our church name, Pathway, reflects that idea: each of us is somewhere along the path. Being in process means we don’t have to be perfect, but it doesn’t mean we should stay stagnant either. Growth is essential.
As we grow older, we often become more set in our ways. But following Jesus requires surrender, openness to change, and a willingness to be challenged. It calls us to discomfort that leads to transformation.
4. Staying Humble and Teachable
Recognizing that we are in process helps us stay humble. It keeps us from judging others and instead helps us reflect inwardly. It reminds us that we need to keep learning and growing. We can live in victory over weakness by identifying our temptations and relying on God’s strength.
Being in process is not an excuse to continue in sin. It should push us toward progress, sanctification, and transformation into the likeness of Jesus.
5. Walk by the Spirit
Galatians 5:16 tells us to walk by the Spirit so we won’t gratify the desires of the flesh. The NLT says, "Let the Holy Spirit guide your lives." God’s grace teaches us to say no to ungodliness (Titus 2:11-12) and live godly lives in this present age. Psalm 103:13-14 reminds us that God has compassion on us because He knows we are dust. He knows we are in process, and His kindness leads us to repentance.
6. Reading the Bible: The Most Impactful Step
The most impactful step you can take in this process is to read the Bible. Scripture is not just an old book; it is living and active. Reading it transforms your heart and mind. It reveals who God is—the Creator, the Savior, the Word made flesh.
Hebrews 12:1-3 urges us to fix our eyes on Jesus, the one who perfects our faith. Matthew 7:13-14 reminds us that the way of life is narrow and not easy, but Jesus walks with us. John 1 shows us that Jesus is the Word of God, the light of the world, and the one who came to dwell among us.
Spending time in the Word is how we come to know Jesus. As we read, we invite Him into our mess and allow Him to cleanse and transform us.
7. Practical Steps for Bible Engagement
You don’t need to read the entire Bible in a year. Even one verse a day can change your life. Use the Bible app, set reminders, make a plan. Think about when, how, and with whom you will engage with God’s Word this year. Start small if needed, but start.
Set a daily routine: when you will read, what reminders you’ll use, and who will hold you accountable.
8. Communion and the Cross
We are in process, but we are also recipients of God’s grace. As we take communion, we remember Jesus’ body broken and His blood shed for us. He died while we were still sinners—still in our mess. Communion reminds us of our hope: Jesus died, rose again, and will return.
So, in 2025, remember that you are in process. Don't use it as an excuse, but as motivation to grow. Fix your eyes on Jesus, spend time in the Word, and let Him lead you forward.
SERMON DETAILS
Speaker: Ben Marshall
Sermon Title: In Process
Date: Jan 5, 2025
SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
Galatians 5:16
Titus 2:11-14
Psalm 103:13-14
Hebrews 12:1-3
Matthew 7:13-14
John 1:1-14
Luke 5:30-32
Romans 5:6-8
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