Austin Chinese Church

It is difficult to see God when life is falling apart. To hear his voice in the midst of despair brings assurance that God's mission proceeds in the midst of the storm.

God promised Abraham, “Behold, my covenant is with you, and you shall be the father of a multitude of nations." We often only think about the offspring of his grandson, Jacob, but there were elements of this promise that also applied to the other grandson, Esau. However, Esau made some choices that didn't please God along the way that significantly impacted his family, the nations that came from him, and ultimately, the nation of Israel. The question we will explore is: "Can God's promises get derailed because of our choices and behavior?"

Not everything in life is binary. But if there were ever a subject in the Christian life that is binary, it's the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul makes it clear in Scripture, if the resurrection of Christ happened, then that is the ultimate game changer for our faith. If it didn't happen, then we are the biggest fools in all of human history, because everything would have been done or said in vain. But if the resurrection is real, then everything we do is not in vain.

Worship of God occurs in the very reality of our lives - the moments when we are faithful to him, but also when sin encapsulates us. God is present in life as well as in loss. God is there through the ups and downs of our devotion to him. God reveals himself to us in our obedience to him as well as in our rebellion against him.

Making decisions is both a wonderful privilege and a heavy burden. One of the reasons for this tension is that our decisions always have a ripple effect. Sometimes it causes great joy and celebration and blessing to others. Other times it can bring inexpressible pain, damage, and brokenness. What kind of decisions do you make? How do you make decisions? Even deeper...why do you make the choices you make?

It's been twenty long years since Jacob had last seen his brother Esau. Jacob robbed Esau of his birthright and family blessing. Esau's effort to restore his relationship with Jacob showcases what God's reconciling work is all about - "you have accepted me."

Jacob's meeting with Esau was filled with fear and caution. But, Jacob's meeting with God was one of preparation and prevailing. When we meet God face to face, we are able to live out our calling faithfully.

When things don't go our way or our desires are not met, it is interesting how we respond. Some will pray and seek God's wisdom and power. In addition, some will work hard to resolve the issue, no matter how difficult it may be, or how much time it may take. Others withdraw because the thought of conflict and solving issues (especially in relationships) is too much to handle. Others may try to manipulate or even take advantage of others by using deception. Is this worth it? How many of us do this? What does God want us to do in order to live in truth and integrity in a world where these values may not be held as tightly?

When we are the final decision makers, life dysfunction ensues. Hope can only be found when we submit to God's wisdom and lordship.

Life can be quite messy due to many of our life choices. But, when God is with us, he is there for us even when we are drowning in life's chaos.