Promise Land Week 1: I Promise To Be There Message Summary: In our greatest times of need, we don’t often remember what people say but we do remember that they were there. Someone’s presence is sometimes the greatest and most needed present. This is why God, through all our hills and valleys, promises to be with us, to never leave us, and to never forsake us. ✦ John 16:33b — “… In this world you will have trouble.” ✦ John 16:33 — “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” ✦ The Truth: Someone’s presence is sometimes the most needed present. ✦ Deuteronomy 31:6,8 — “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you…The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” ✦ Joshua 1:1,2 — After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: 2 “Moses my servant is dead. ✦ Joshua 1:5-6,9 — “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. 6 Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them…9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” ✦ Psalm 139:3,7-10 — 3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways… Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. ✦ Matthew 28:20b — “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” ✦ Hebrews 13:5 — …because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” ✦ God’s Promise: My presence is always present. Planting Jesus Roots GATHER — Look up the lyrics of the song Promises by Maverick City Music. Which line brings you the most comfort despite the uncertain situations in your life? GROUP — Do any of your trusted friends know what circumstance(s) is/are currently causing you stress (finances, relationship issues, work, health, etc.)? Why or why not? GROW — Read Psalm 23. The promise of God’s presence comes with other blessings and fruit. What are one or two that stand out for you from these famous words of David? GIVE — Evaluate this statement: God’s promises are essential for you to become (1) a person who gives generously and (2) gives for the right reasons. GO — Do you know someone who is struggling in life right now? Next Sunday’s service is the perfect place for them to find hope for the future. Homework: Hebrews 4:16