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Micah - Dorothy
Sermon Summary
Dorothy reminds us that in a volatile and uncertain world, the enduring foundation for living the good life is to walk humbly with God, relying on His word, Spirit, and example to guide us through injustice, division, and change, just as the prophet Micah called God's people to do long ago
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In a world that feels more volatile and uncertain than ever, it’s easy to wonder how we can find stability and direction. As we look around at the rapid changes in culture, technology, and society, the question arises: where do we find a foundation that endures? The answer is found in faith in God and the enduring power of His Word. This has been the anchor for our church for nearly 30 years, ever since a group of humble, bold believers gathered to seek God’s vision for our community—to be a door of hope through Jesus Christ in a fragile and uncertain world. That vision, once questioned, now seems more prophetic and relevant than ever.
Scripture reminds us that our times are not as unprecedented as we might think. The Bible is filled with stories of people navigating chaos, injustice, and uncertainty. The prophet Micah, for example, spoke into a world not unlike ours—divided, corrupt, and marked by social inequity. Micah’s message was a call to remember who God is, to confront injustice, and to return to a life grounded in God’s presence and promises. He was empowered by the Spirit to speak truth, advocate for the marginalised, and remind God’s people of their calling.
Modern research echoes what Scripture has always taught: the good life is not found in wealth, success, or even health, but in meaningful relationships and living according to God’s ways. Flourishing comes from knowing God, doing what He says, and living in community. In a world offering artificial substitutes for real connection, we are reminded that only God’s truth and presence can truly satisfy and sustain us.
Personal experience confirms this. When we walk closely with God, listening to His Spirit and grounding ourselves in His Word, we are prepared for whatever comes—whether it’s breakthrough or crisis. God’s call is simple yet profound: do what is right, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him. This is the path to wisdom, peace, and true flourishing. The challenge is to ask ourselves: Am I truly walking with God? Do I recognise my limitations and trust His sovereignty? As we seek first His kingdom, He promises to provide all we need.
Key Takeaways
1. God’s Vision Prepares Us for Uncertainty
God often gives vision and direction that only makes sense in hindsight. What may seem irrelevant or even questionable in one season can become a prophetic anchor in times of crisis. Trusting God’s long-term perspective allows us to remain steadfast when the world feels unstable.
2. Scripture Reveals That Our Struggles Are Not New
The challenges we face—division, injustice, and moral confusion—are not unique to our era. The Bible shows that God’s people have always navigated such waters, and His faithfulness endures through every generation. This perspective frees us from fear and grounds us in hope.
3. True Flourishing Is Found in Relationship and Obedience
Secular research confirms what God’s Word has long declared: the good life is rooted in meaningful relationships and living according to God’s design. Artificial substitutes, like AI companions, cannot replace the richness of real community and spiritual connection.
4. Walking with God Prepares Us for Life’s Trials
When we cultivate intimacy with God—through prayer, Scripture, and listening to the Spirit—we are equipped to face both blessings and hardships. God often prepares us in advance, giving us the wisdom and resilience we need for whatever lies ahead.
5. The Path to the Good Life Is Simple but Demanding
Micah’s call to do what is right, love mercy, and walk humbly with God is both straightforward and deeply challenging. It requires daily surrender, humility, and a willingness to let God lead. This is the way to wisdom, peace, and lasting fruitfulness.
Daily Hope Devotionals
Day 1: God’s Word Is Our Enduring Foundation in Uncertain Times
Scripture:
Proverbs 8:24 (NLT)
'I was born before the oceans were created, before the springs bubbled forth their waters. '
https://www.bible.com/bible/116/PRO.8.24Devotional:
In a world that feels volatile and ever-changing, it is easy to feel unmoored and anxious about where to find stability. Yet, throughout history, God’s Word has been a solid foundation, offering clarity and evidence of His unwavering commitment to be present for our good. The Bible reminds us that the challenges we face are not unprecedented; God has been guiding His people through uncertain waters since the beginning of time. When we root ourselves in His Word, we find the wisdom and assurance we need to navigate both global events and personal trials with hope and confidence.
Reflection:
Where in your life do you feel most unstable or anxious right now, and how can you intentionally turn to God’s Word this week to anchor your heart in His enduring truth?
Prayer:
Lord God, thank You for Your Word! Help me to read it more this week and meditate on it when I feel unstable or anxious in this ever-changing world. Thank You that You are my Rock and safe place. Amen.
Day 2: Walking Humbly with God—The Pathway to the Good Life
Scripture:
Micah 6:8 (NIV)
'He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. '
https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MIC.6.8
True flourishing is not found in wealth, status, or even personal achievement, but in walking humbly with God, doing what is right, loving mercy, and living in close relationship with Him. This simple yet profound call grounds us when the world is divisive, corrupt, and deceptive. By spending time with Jesus, listening to His words, and following His example, we learn to live with integrity and compassion, allowing His Spirit to shape our character and relationships. This is the life God desires for us—a life marked by humility, justice, and mercy.
Reflection:
What is one practical way you can walk humbly with God today—perhaps by seeking His guidance in a decision, or by showing mercy to someone in your life?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your mercy in my life, for always being with me in my troubles. Help me to be Your hands and feet to those around me who are in need of mercy. Guide me in all Your ways. In Your holy name Lord Jesus! Amen.
Day 3: The Holy Spirit Guides Us into Truth and Wisdom
Scripture:
Proverbs 9:9-10 (NLT)
'Instruct the wise, and they will be even wiser. Teach the righteous, and they will learn even more. Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment. '
https://www.bible.com/bible/116/PRO.9.9-10
Devotional:
God does not leave us to navigate life’s complexities alone; He gives us His Spirit to guide us into all truth. The Holy Spirit teaches us what is right, reveals wisdom, and points us continually back to Jesus. As we rely on the Spirit, we receive insight and strength to live fruitfully, even in challenging seasons. This divine guidance is available to all who seek it, extending our lives and making each year more meaningful as we grow in understanding and obedience.
Reflection:
In what area of your life do you most need the Holy Spirit’s wisdom and guidance right now, and how can you make space to listen for His voice this week?
Prayer:
Holy Spirit, I ask for Your wisdom as I look to the week ahead. Thank You for this moment with You. Open my heart, mind, and soul to You so that I can discern Your ways for all areas of my life. For Your glory Lord Jesus! Amen.
Day 4: Seek First the Kingdom—Trusting God’s Provision
Scripture:
Matthew 6:33 (NLT)
'Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. '
https://www.bible.com/bible/116/MAT.6.33
Devotional:
When we prioritise God’s Kingdom above all else and live righteously, He promises to provide everything we need. In times of chaos, disappointment, or unmet needs, it is tempting to rely on our own strength or to be deceived by fear. Yet, Jesus reigns above it all, and we are invited to trust in His sovereignty and goodness. By seeking Him first, even in our finances and daily choices, we experience His faithful provision and peace that surpasses understanding.
Reflection:
What is one area where you are tempted to worry or strive in your own strength? How can you surrender this to God today and seek His Kingdom first?
Prayer:
Lord God, I surrender my all to You. Reveal anything that I am holding back. Help me to repent of my sins so there is nothing between us. Heavenly Father, may Your Kingdom come and Your will be done in my life! Amen.
Day 5: Flourishing in Community—The Good Life God Desires
Scripture:
John 13:34-35 (NLT)
'So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” '
https://www.bible.com/bible/116/JHN.13.34-35
Devotional:
Scientific studies and Scripture agree: the good life is found not in material success, but in meaningful relationships, community, and living according to God’s Word. Real flourishing comes as we know God, do what He says, and invest in authentic relationships with others. In a world that offers artificial substitutes for connection, we are called to resist isolation and instead build genuine community, allowing God’s love to flow through us. This is the life Jesus modeled and the Spirit empowers us to live—a life of purpose, belonging, and joy.
Reflection:
Who is one person in your community or church you can intentionally encourage or connect with this week, reflecting God’s love and building up the body of Christ?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I thank You for how you modeled living with purpose and love. I pray that You would guide me to someone who needs connection right now and place them on my heart. Thank You Holy Spirit for living inside my heart and connecting with me. Amen.
Day 6: The Prophetic Vision of Hope
Scripture:
Micah 7:7 (NIV)
'But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me. '
https://www.bible.com/bible/111/MIC.7.7
Devotional:
Nearly 30 years ago, our church embraced the vision to be a "door of hope" in a fragile and uncertain world. Even though it has been questioned, this vision has proven prophetic. God prepares us for such times as these, reminding us that His plans are always ahead of our challenges. Looking back, we see His faithfulness and can move forward with confidence.
Reflection:
In what part of your life do you need hope for the future?
Is there something God is calling you to for your future that others might be questioning?
Prayer:
Lord God, thank You that You are the same yesterday, today, and always. That in my hopelessness, You are strong and faithful to see me through. I pray for Your continued guidance and courage for all that You have called me to. Amen
Day 7: The Danger of Easy Comforts in a Lonely World
Scripture:
Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)
'And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. '
https://www.bible.com/bible/111/HEB.10.24-25
As AI companions become more common, there’s a temptation to seek comfort in relationships that only agree with us and never challenge us. But true flourishing comes from real human connection, which includes challenges, growth, and sometimes disappointment. We must be cautious not to replace God’s community with artificial substitutes.
Reflection:
What's one relationship that God's calling you to go deeper into?
How can you be more intentional about growing God's community?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You that You have called us to be a community and to share life and faith together. Help me to be intentional about going deeper in my relationship with others that know You so that we can encourage and challenge each other. Amen.
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