Welcome to Colonial Church STA! We are thrilled to have you join us for this uplifting message. In this video, is an inspiring sermon based on Psalm 92, which is a significant text for our church. Viewers are invited to engage with the scripture and see themselves as righteous, flourishing individuals. This message highlights the importance of being planted in God’s house and embracing the seed life, where a small seed holds immense power and potential. By trusting God with a seed and living according to His rhythm, we can experience growth, become a foundation for others, and witness amazing things unfold in our lives. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by the message of “A Seed Is All You Need.”
The Importance of Being Planted in God’s House
Introduction to the series ‘Planted and Flourishing’
Welcome to our new series, ‘Planted and Flourishing’! We are excited to delve into the importance of being planted in God’s house and the blessings that come from investing in His dwelling place. Throughout this series, we will explore the concept of being planted, the significance of being in a local church, the power and potential of a seed, and the miraculous nature of seeds. We will also discuss embracing the seed life, trusting God with a seed, and rejecting the pattern of the world. By the end of this series, we hope you will be encouraged and inspired to say yes to Jesus and experience a new relationship and salvation.
Psalm 92 as a key text for the church
In Psalm 92, we find a beautiful description of the importance of being planted in God’s house. It says, “The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. They are planted in the house of the Lord; they flourish in the courts of our God” (Psalm 92:12-13, ESV). This passage reminds us that when we are rooted and planted in God’s house, we will experience growth and flourishing. It is in His presence and in the community of believers that we find nourishment, support, and the opportunity to bear fruit.
Emphasizing the beauty of God’s dwelling place
When we talk about being planted in God’s house, we are not referring solely to a physical building. God’s dwelling place is not confined to one location but is wherever His people gather in His name. The beauty of God’s dwelling place lies in the unity and love shared by His people. It is a place of worship, fellowship, and growth. In God’s house, we find the opportunity to connect with Him and with others, learning and growing together in faith.
Blessings that come from investing in God’s house
Investing in God’s house is not just about attending services or contributing financially. It is about committing ourselves to the well-being of the church community and actively participating in its life. When we invest our time, talents, and resources in God’s house, we open ourselves up to receive the blessings that God has in store for us. These blessings may come in the form of spiritual growth, personal development, fruitful relationships, and the satisfaction of making a difference in the lives of others.
Understanding the Concept of Being Planted
What it means to be planted in the house of God
Being planted in the house of God means more than just attending church services. It goes beyond physical presence and requires a heart that is committed to God and His people. When we are planted, we are firmly rooted in the truth of God’s Word, centered in His presence, and actively engaged in the life of the church. It is a posture of surrender, allowing God to work in and through us for His glory.
Consequences of not being planted
Choosing not to be planted in God’s house can lead to spiritual stagnation and isolation. Without the support and accountability provided by a community of believers, it becomes easier to drift away from God and His Word. We miss out on the opportunity to grow and flourish as God intended us to. Additionally, the enemy often seeks to isolate individuals, making them vulnerable to attacks and hindering their spiritual development. Being planted guards against such attacks and provides the necessary support to stand firm in faith.
Obstacles and challenges that arise from being planted
Being planted does not exempt us from facing challenges or obstacles. In fact, being firmly rooted in God’s house often attracts opposition from the enemy. As we commit ourselves to God and His people, we may encounter resistance, disagreement, and even persecution. However, these challenges should not discourage us. Instead, they can be viewed as opportunities for growth, deepening our faith, and strengthening our resolve to persevere.
Exploring the enemy’s plan and the promise of flourishing for the planted
The enemy, knowing the power and potential of believers who are planted in God’s house, seeks to hinder their growth and effectiveness. He may use distractions, busyness, discouragement, or temptations to draw us away from the benefits of being planted. However, God has promised that those who are firmly rooted and planted in Him will flourish. Despite the enemy’s plans, God’s promise of growth and blessings remains steadfast. By staying committed to God’s house, we can overcome the enemy’s tactics and experience the abundant life that God has prepared for us.
The Importance of Being In a Local Church
Statistics on the decline of church attendance during the pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on church attendance worldwide. According to various surveys and studies, there has been a decline in the number of people attending church services. Restrictions on gatherings, fear of contracting the virus, and changes in personal priorities have all contributed to this decline. While it is understandable that many have turned to online services during these challenging times, it is important to recognize the value of being in a local church community.
Benefits of being in a local church
Being in a local church provides numerous benefits that contribute to our spiritual growth and well-being. Firstly, it offers a sense of belonging and community. In a local church, we find a support system, friendships, and a place where we are known and cared for. We are able to connect with others who share our beliefs and values, encouraging and challenging one another to grow in faith.
Secondly, being in a local church provides opportunities for spiritual nourishment and discipleship. Through regular teaching, worship, and the administration of sacraments, we are fed and equipped to live out our faith. We gain a deeper understanding of God’s Word and are challenged to apply its principles to our daily lives.
Thirdly, being in a local church allows us to make a difference in our community and the world. God has given each of us unique gifts and talents, and the local church provides a platform to utilize these gifts. Together, we can serve, love, and impact the lives of those around us, embodying the love and compassion of Christ.
Misalignment in thinking of going it alone
In a world that often prioritizes individualism and self-sufficiency, the idea of being committed to a local church may seem outdated to some. However, going it alone in our faith journey deprives us of the unique benefits that come from being part of a community. We are designed for connection and relationship, and the local church provides a space for us to experience this in a meaningful and transformative way.
The righteous flourishing and becoming blessings to the world
When we are planted in a local church, we have the opportunity to grow and flourish in our relationship with God. As we receive spiritual nourishment, support, and accountability, we become equipped to impact the world around us. The righteous, who are firmly rooted in God’s house, bear fruit and become blessings to others. Through acts of love, service, and sharing God’s truth, they bring hope and transformation to their communities.
The Power and Potential of a Seed
All you need is a seed
In the natural world, all it takes is a single seed to bring forth a flourishing plant. Similarly, in the spiritual realm, all it takes is a seed of faith to initiate God’s work in our lives. It may start small, but through His power, it can grow and produce a harvest beyond our wildest imaginations.
God rejoices in small beginnings
Throughout Scripture, we see examples of God rejoicing in small beginnings. He takes delight in using the humble and the seemingly insignificant to accomplish great things. Just as a small seed has the potential to grow into a mighty tree, our small acts of obedience and faith can have far-reaching effects in God’s kingdom.
The kingdom begins with a seed
The concept of a seed is integral to the kingdom of God. Jesus often used agricultural metaphors to teach about the principles and values of His kingdom. Just as a farmer sows seeds to produce a bountiful harvest, God invites us to sow seeds of love, kindness, and faithfulness in order to bring forth a harvest of righteousness and transformation.
The metaphor of a mustard seed and the power of faith
Jesus referred to the mustard seed in several of His teachings, highlighting its small size and its potential for growth. He compared it to faith, emphasizing that even faith as small as a mustard seed has the power to move mountains. This metaphor reminds us that no matter how insignificant our faith may seem, it can have a profound impact when placed in the hands of our all-powerful God. Our trust and confidence in Him can bring about miraculous results.
The Significance of Seeds in Life
Personal anecdote of snacks scarcity
I vividly remember a time when I found myself facing a scarcity of snacks in my pantry. As I rummaged through the empty shelves, I came across a forgotten bag of seeds. In that moment, I realized the significance of seeds not just in the spiritual realm, but also in our daily lives. These tiny, unassuming seeds hold the potential to provide sustenance, growth, and abundance.
The importance of a seed in various aspects of life
Seeds play a crucial role in various aspects of life. In agriculture, they are the starting point for cultivating crops and ensuring food security. In our bodies, seeds from fruits and vegetables contain vital nutrients and antioxidants that support our health. In nature, seeds are responsible for the regrowth and regeneration of forests, meadows, and ecosystems after natural disasters. From a symbolic standpoint, seeds represent hope, potential, and new beginnings.
The power, potential, and ability of seeds to grow
Seeds possess a remarkable ability to grow and flourish. When provided with the right conditions—such as soil, water, sunlight, and care—they germinate, develop roots, and emerge as thriving plants. They display resilience in their pursuit of growth, often pushing through dense soil or concrete in their quest for light. In a similar way, our faith seeds, when nurtured in the fertile soil of God’s Word and supported by a community of believers, have the potential to grow and produce a bountiful spiritual harvest.
The existence of seed banks and preserving seeds for the future
The importance of seeds extends beyond their immediate use. In response to the need for diversity and preservation of plant species, seed banks have been established worldwide. These banks serve as repositories of seeds, ensuring their long-term conservation and availability for future generations. This practice highlights the significance of safeguarding and preserving the potential and resources within seeds. It also serves as a reminder for us to invest in our faith seeds and pass on the legacy of God’s truth and love to future generations.
The Miraculous Nature of Seeds
Discovery of the oldest viable seed in the world
One of the most fascinating stories related to seeds involves the discovery of the oldest viable seed in the world. In 1963, a 2,000-year-old date palm seed was excavated from the ancient fortress of Masada in Israel. Against all odds, this ancient seed sprouted, becoming the oldest known seed to germinate and grow. This remarkable event demonstrates the resilience and life-giving potential that seeds possess, even after thousands of years of dormancy.
The oldest seed found in Jerusalem
Another incredible discovery was made in 2005 during archaeological excavations in Jerusalem. A clay jar containing two thousand-year-old seeds was unearthed in a cave. With the right conditions, including proper storage and care, one of the seeds successfully sprouted and grew, revealing its miraculous ability to sustain life over centuries.
Seeds have power, potential, and provision
These extraordinary discoveries serve as a powerful reminder of the inherent power, potential, and provision within seeds. Despite the passing of time and adverse conditions, seeds hold within them the ability to revive and bring forth life. This parallels our spiritual journey, as God’s Word promises that the seeds we sow in faith will produce a harvest and bring forth blessings beyond our imagination.
Genesis 1:29 and God’s provision of plants yielding seed for food
In the very beginning, God established a pattern of provision by creating plants yielding seed for food. In Genesis 1:29, God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.” This divine provision reinforces the significance of seeds as a source of sustenance and nourishment, as well as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to provide for all our needs.
Embracing the Seed Life
All God needs is a seed and a yes from us
When we embrace the seed life, we recognize that all God needs is a seed—whether it be a small act of obedience, a seed of faith, or a willingness to surrender—and a yes from us. Just as a tiny seed is capable of producing a mighty tree, our small offerings, when placed in God’s hands, can lead to great breakthroughs and transformations.
A seed in God’s hand is more powerful than a fully grown tree
In God’s economy, the potential contained within a seed far outweighs the appearance or size of a fully grown tree. When we submit our lives, dreams, and desires to God, trusting Him to work in and through us, we tap into His unlimited power and potential. A seed in His hand has the capacity to impact generations and bring about lasting change.
Living according to a different rhythm and trusting God with a seed
Embracing the seed life requires us to live according to a different rhythm. It calls us to be patient, to trust in God’s timing, and to surrender our desires and plans to His greater purposes. Rather than striving and forcing outcomes, we learn to sow in faith, leaving the growth and results in God’s hands. This posture of trust allows us to experience the peace and joy that come from aligning ourselves with God’s will.
Sowing and reaping as a kingdom principle
Sowing and reaping is a fundamental principle in God’s kingdom. Throughout Scripture, we are encouraged to sow generously and to seek God’s guidance in our giving. Just as a farmer expects a harvest after sowing seeds, we can trust that our faithfulness in sowing spiritual seeds will yield a bountiful harvest in due time. Our acts of love, grace, and generosity have a ripple effect, blessing both ourselves and others.
Trusting God with a Seed
God supplies seed for sowing and multiplies it
In His infinite wisdom and generosity, God not only supplies us with the seed but also multiplies it. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:10, “He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.” When we place our trust in Him, God provides the resources we need to fulfill His purposes and expands our capacity to bless others.
Embracing the seed life leads to growth, durability, and becoming a foundation
When we trust God with a seed, we position ourselves for growth, durability, and becoming a foundation. Just as a plant grows from a tiny seed and withstands various challenges, our faith grows stronger as we remain rooted in God’s truth and His promises. We become foundations upon which others can build their faith, offering stability, support, and encouragement.
Amazing things happen when we trust God with a seed
When we trust God with a seed—whether it be a talent, a resource, or an act of obedience—we allow Him to work miracles in and through us. Amazing things happen when we step out in faith and partner with God. He takes our meager offerings and transforms them into something beautiful and impactful, ultimately bringing glory to His name.
The process of sowing and reaping takes time
It is important to recognize that the process of sowing and reaping takes time. We may not see immediate results or the full extent of the harvest right away. However, patience, perseverance, and unwavering trust in God’s faithfulness will sustain us through the waiting period. As we continue to sow seeds in faith, God faithfully brings about growth and fruit in His perfect timing.
Rejecting the Pattern of the World
Conforming to God’s way of working
In a world driven by self-promotion, instant gratification, and material success, we are called to reject the pattern of the world and conform to God’s way of working. God’s economy operates on different principles, where faith, humility, and servanthood are valued over worldly attributes. As we align ourselves with His ways, we discover a depth of purpose, joy, and fulfillment that surpasses the fleeting pleasures of the world.
Understanding the cycle of sowing and reaping
Rejecting the pattern of the world requires embracing the cycle of sowing and reaping. Just as a farmer must patiently sow, cultivate, and wait for a harvest, we are called to faithfully sow seeds of love, grace, and truth in the lives of others. The results may not be immediate, but we can trust that God will bring about a harvest of blessings and transformation.
Trusting God and embracing the seed life for blessings and harvests
As we trust God and embrace the seed life, we position ourselves for blessings and harvests beyond our wildest dreams. When we reject the pattern of the world and prioritize God’s kingdom, He lavishes us with His favor, provision, and joy. Our trust in Him becomes a testimony to the watching world, showcasing the faithfulness and goodness of our Heavenly Father.
Sowing a seed of faith and trusting God to move mountains
One of the most powerful ways we can reject the pattern of the world is by sowing a seed of faith—believing God for the impossible and trusting Him to move mountains on our behalf. When we release our limited perspective and surrender to His will, we invite His supernatural intervention and invite Him to work in ways beyond what we can imagine. Our faith becomes a catalyst for miracles and a testament to God’s limitless power.
Conclusion
The flourishing that comes from trusting in God’s process
Trusting in God’s process and being planted in His house leads to flourishing in every aspect of our lives. Just as a tree planted by streams of water bears fruit in its season, we too flourish spiritually, emotionally, and relationally when we are rooted in Him. The blessings and growth that come from being planted in God’s house far outweigh any challenges or obstacles we may face along the way.
Saying yes to Jesus and experiencing a new relationship and salvation
Ultimately, the importance of being planted in God’s house leads us to say yes to Jesus and experience a new relationship and salvation. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Jesus offers us the opportunity to be reconciled with God, to receive forgiveness and grace, and to be part of His eternal family. Being planted in God’s house is not just about earthly blessings and growth; it is about eternity and the abundant life that Jesus came to give us.
As we conclude our series, ‘Planted and Flourishing,’ we encourage you to reflect on the importance of being planted in God’s house and the blessings that come from investing in His dwelling place. May you embrace the seed life, trust God with your seeds, reject the pattern of the world, and experience the flourishing that can only come from being rooted in Him. Say yes to Jesus today and embark on a journey of growth, transformation, and eternal significance.