I Know the Plans...

Beltway Park Church

I Know the Plans...

August 27, 2023 • David McQueen • Jeremiah 29:1–13

Week four of the Coffee Cup Christianity series, David McQueen provides context around Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

This common verse is often quoted for its promise of prosperity and hope, which many equate to monetary prosperity. However, when you understand the full context in Jeremiah and about the original audience – the Jewish exiles in Babylon, you will gain a deeper perspective on prosperity. True prosperity comes from seeking and knowing God, rather than merely seeking material wealth or comfort. Genuine prosperity involves an ongoing pursuit of knowing God deeply. Be encouraged to seek God with your whole heart, where you’ll find joy and fulfillment that comes from knowing Him intimately. He is worth pursuing!

Be Strong and Courageous

September 3, 2023 • Geoffrey Turner • Joshua 1:1–9

Geoffrey Turner closes out the Coffee Cup Christianity series in week five by providing context around Joshua 1:9. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Often, we make decisions based on a risk-reward analysis, from financial decisions to career choices, etc. Rewards outlined in scripture for believers, including God’s promises to be our strength, provide for our needs, and give us purpose and peace. While God’s promises are awe-inspiring, they also come with risks. Leading to the book of Joshua, the Israelites’ journey from slavery in Egypt to their current point, setting the stage for Joshua 1. God instructs Joshua to lead the Israelites into the promised land after the death of Moses. God promises Joshua that he will be with him and emphasizes the need to be strong and courageous, as there are challenges ahead. Despite being so close to the reward, God repeatedly tells Joshua to be strong and courageous because the promises of God do not automatically happen. There is a common misconception that God's promises will materialize without any effort or risk on the believer's part. Faith requires action and often involves taking risks. The Lord often calls us to obey before we truly understand. It is obedience that unlocks understanding. Joshua, as a new leader, had to confront the risk of not being trusted by the people, the fear of failure, and the challenges of crossing the Jordan River. However, the rewards of God's promises are always worth the risks!

Great is Your Faithfulness

August 20, 2023 • David McQueen • Lamentations 3:1–23

David McQueen focuses on Lamentations 3:22–23: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” for week three of the Coffee Cup Christianity series. This common verse will find most followers of Christ acknowledging God's faithfulness during favorable times but struggling to do so during times of sorrow and hardship. To best understand this verse, we must understand the context in which the Book of Lamentations was written – a period of immense suffering, destruction, and darkness following the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians. The author, Jeremiah the prophet, has seen affliction and felt abandoned by God. The verses of Lamentations express his anguish, but they also serve as a reminder of God's patience, steadfast love, and promises throughout Israel's history. Pastor McQueen encourages honesty in facing difficult emotions and wrestling with God, using Jeremiah's example. Faith begins with acknowledging feelings but doesn't end there. Faith calls one to remember God's goodness and promises, as exemplified by Jeremiah. In looking in the New Testament and the significance of Jesus' sacrifice, Jesus experienced darkness to bring light and hope. How you speak to yourself is important, we must recall God's goodness, and choose to focus on the cross, as it is a reminder of God's ultimate act of love and hope. Be encouraged to declare God's goodness, especially in difficult circumstances!

For God So Loved the World...

August 13, 2023 • David McQueen • John 3:1–17

In the second series of "Coffee Cup Christianity" David McQueen explores the misunderstood concept of God's love using John 3:16 as a central theme “For God so loved the world…” In looking at this scripture outside of context, one can interpret God's love in ways that align with personal desires, rather than its true meaning. Pastor David emphasizes the need to surrender to Jesus' leadership to receive God's love. He draws parallels between natural birth and spiritual rebirth, highlighting the importance of a fresh start and being forgiven. God's love is received through embracing the reality of being condemned and perishing due to sin. The cross's significance is explained as a symbol of God's love, paying the price for humanity's sins. Listen to understand more about God's love and its transformative power for your life!