Sermon: Embracing the Power of God’s Guidance in Our Lives

Good morning, Church! It is such an honor to be with you today as we come together to worship and grow in our faith. I believe today’s message is one that will inspire each of us to look deeper into the guidance God offers us in every moment of our lives. Just like Gilbert, Arizona, where we find a unique blend of the old and new, God’s guidance is a harmonious balance that leads us toward a place of peace, strength, and divine purpose.

Gilbert is a city that has experienced tremendous growth over the years. It’s now the eighth city on our list of the best places to live in Arizona. People are drawn to its vibrant downtown area, known as the Heritage District. It’s the heart of the city, filled with lively restaurants, bars, and local shops. Culinary Dropout, Liberty Market, and Snooze are just a few of the gems that bring this district to life. You can feel the energy of the city as it pulses through the streets.

Yet, much like the growth and vitality we see in Gilbert, we, too, are on a journey of growth. We may be surrounded by challenges and changes, but through God’s guidance, we can navigate this world with a purpose and confidence that can only come from Him.

The Challenges of Growth: A Call to Trust

It’s no secret that Gilbert has become more expensive over time. Home prices have nearly doubled since January 2020. And just like those rising prices, the challenges in our own lives can seem to increase. The daily grind, financial pressures, or perhaps strained relationships—these are the “costs” of living that many of us can relate to. Yet, just like those who call Gilbert home, we must remember that we are not in this alone.

Gilbert’s neighborhoods, like those of many cities in the Phoenix metro area, are built on a grid system. These well-planned streets reflect a sense of order and purpose. Similarly, God’s plan for us is not haphazard. It is intentional, and His guidance is meant to help us navigate the complexities of life with grace and strength.

You may feel like you’re on an isolated path, but I want to encourage you today that God is with you. Just as neighborhoods in Gilbert are connected, we, too, are interconnected with God’s divine plan. He leads us in ways that we may not always understand at the time, but when we trust in Him, His ways become clearer. He will provide the direction we need to walk through this life.

The Heart of the Matter: The True Source of Strength

We can take a lesson from Gilbert’s Heritage District. It’s the heart of the city—a place where life and community come together. Just like that heart, God is the heart of our lives. He is the source of all our strength, our peace, and our provision. He desires to lead us with purpose, even when it feels like the road ahead is uncertain.

In times of challenge, when it seems like the world is moving faster than we can keep up, we must remember that God has a plan for us. Even in seasons when life may feel like a constant hustle, we can trust that He is guiding us, step by step.

The Psalmist reminds us in Psalm 23:1, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Just as the shepherd provides for his sheep, God provides for us. He guides us to green pastures and still waters, places of rest and nourishment for our souls. God does not want us to be consumed by the worries of this world. He wants us to walk in the peace and provision that only He can offer.

Trusting the Process: The Journey of Faith

As we look at Gilbert, we see a city that has grown and evolved over time. Its parks, such as Freestone District Park and the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, offer spaces for rest and reflection, providing the community with places to recharge. Similarly, God leads us to places of spiritual rest. In those moments, we may not always see the bigger picture, but we must trust in His process.

The journey of faith is much like the process of growth we see in Gilbert. The landscape changes, homes are built, and new spaces are created. Likewise, our lives are shaped through the moments we walk with God. Each step builds upon the last, and before we know it, we find ourselves in a place of spiritual abundance.

God does not promise us a life without struggles, but He does promise to be with us through them. Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” The challenges you face may feel overwhelming, but know that He is holding you up, strengthening you, and guiding you through each and every moment.

Moving Forward with Confidence: Our Future in God’s Hands

As we look at the city of Gilbert, we see growth, challenges, and a future full of possibilities. The same is true for our lives. Just as Gilbert’s community continues to evolve, so does our spiritual journey. God is preparing us for greater things, just as He has prepared this city for a bright future.

The question today is: Are we ready to trust Him? Are we ready to step forward with confidence, knowing that He has equipped us for whatever lies ahead?

Remember, we are not meant to live in fear or uncertainty. Just as Gilbert’s streets are laid out in a way that guides its residents, God’s Word and His presence will guide us through every season of life.

Today, I encourage you to embrace God’s guidance. Trust that He has a plan for you, and that His ways are higher than ours. Just as Gilbert has grown and thrived, you too can thrive in the path that God has set before you. Trust Him, step forward in faith, and allow His guidance to lead you into a future filled with hope and purpose.

God bless you all!