Speaker: Ms Taeko Funaoka
Sermon Title: Immanuel: Veiled by the darkness of despair
Scripture Text: Psalm 77, Isaiah 42: 2 – 3
Introduction
• God is with us every moment of our lives.
• Is it possible that we sense God is far away in time of difficulty?
• Out of 150 psalms in the Book of Psalms, one third is the psalms of lament.
1. Cry for help & painful reflection (vv1-6)
The psalmist cried out to God for help in distress. He recalled the ways how God has shown grace in the past and compared with current situation where he does not hear from God.
2. Questions (vv7-9)
Powerful questions emerged from this constant cry and painful reflection. It also helps to redirect the psalmist’s heart.
3. Remembering God’s mighty saving works (v10-20)
The Psalmist decided to remember God’s mighty works in the past, which encouraged him and led him to praise God.
Isaiah 42:1-4: God’s Servant, who will bring justice in gentle, compassionate, and humble way. It was fulfilled in the life and work of Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:18-21).
Conclusion
• Conscious acts of remembrance remind us of the unchanging character of God’s love and His salvation.
• God is with us in all seasons, and He gently strengthens our faith, and instils hope in us in our difficult time.
Reflection
1. Recall the time when you experienced God’s grace, love, mercy or encouragement.
2. Will you hold on to Jesus and trust Him to take care of you in time of difficulty?
3. Is there anyone around you who needs to receive this hope and assurance of Immanuel – God with us?
Christian Copyright Licensing International (CCLI)
Account #: 464937
* Copyright License
* Song@Select Advance
* Streaming License