In what ways can we recognize God's "great" works in our community? Key Scripture “Great are the works of the LORD; they are pondered by all who delight in them.” — Psalm 111:2 Seeing the Lord’s Hand in Everyday Life • Sunrise to sunset—the rhythm of days that keep farmers’ fields growing, businesses running, and families gathering (Genesis 8:22). • The beauty of nearby parks, rivers, and gardens—creation testifying right outside our windows (Romans 1:20). • The gift of health professionals, teachers, and first responders—God’s common grace expressed through skilled neighbors (Exodus 31:3). Changed Lives in Our Neighborhood • People turning from addiction to freedom in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Marriages restored after prayer and counseling (Malachi 4:6). • Youth discovering purpose through serving others (1 Timothy 4:12). Answered Prayer in Real Time • Jobs provided after layoffs, bills paid just in time (Philippians 4:19). • Healing reports that confound expectations (James 5:16). • Reconciliations after long-standing conflicts (Matthew 5:9). Unity Among Believers • Churches partnering for food banks and clinics—“all the believers were together and had everything in common” (Acts 2:44). • City-wide worship nights crossing denominational lines, echoing Jesus’ prayer “that they may be one” (John 17:21). • Shared outreach where gifts blend like parts of one body (1 Corinthians 12:12). Justice and Mercy on Display • Volunteers advocating for the unborn, the elderly, and refugees—“speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” (Proverbs 31:8). • Legal professionals offering pro-bono help, mirroring the Lord who “executes justice for the oppressed” (Psalm 146:7). • Community re-entry programs welcoming the formerly incarcerated, reflecting the call to remember prisoners (Hebrews 13:3). Provision and Generosity • Local businesses donating supplies after disasters (2 Corinthians 9:11). • Surplus gardens feeding shelters—“He supplies seed to the sower and bread for food” (2 Corinthians 9:10). • Scholarships funded quietly by believers who “do not let the left hand know what the right hand is doing” (Matthew 6:3). Enduring Truth Proclaimed • Bible studies thriving in coffee shops, homes, and online (Acts 5:42). • Scripture plaques in storefronts, verses on social media—God’s Word running swiftly (Psalm 147:15). • Apologetics events equipping saints to “contend for the faith” (Jude 1:3). Responding to What We See • Pause and ponder—slow down to notice His handiwork (Psalm 46:10). • Share testimonies—tell neighbors what He has done (Psalm 107:2). • Join the work—serve where He is already moving (Ephesians 2:10). • Keep watch—anticipate fresh mercies every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). |
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