Today’s sermon was on the topic of past pain and overcoming our past, whether that pain be past abuse, failure and even sin. It is vital to remember that God does not love as we love. Meaning, despite our past sins, He has chosen to covenant with us. Also, despite our past failings and possible abuse, God is the rock that we must turn to if we are to overcome, for He is sufficient for the day of trouble. Blessed be the name of the Lord. Here’s the sermon.
From Martin Luther’s first hymn, Dear Christians, One and All, Rejoice
My own good works all came to naught,
No grace or merit gaining;
Free will against God’s judgment fought,
Dead to all good remaining.
My fears increased till sheer despair
Left only death to my share;
The pangs of hell I suffered.
But God had seen my wretched state
Before the world’s foundation,
And mindful of his mercies great,
He planned for my salvation.
He turned to me a father’s heart;
He did not choose easy part
But gave his dearest treasure.
To me he said: “Stay close to me,
I am your rock and castle.
Your ransom I myself will be;
For you I strive and wrestle;
For I am yours, and you are mine,
And where I am you may remain;
The foe shall not divide us.
“Though he will shed my precious blood,
Of life me thus bereaving,
All this I suffer for your good;
Be steadfast and believing.
Life will from death the victory win;
My innocence shall bear your sin;
And you are blest forever.
Applied-Apologetics 