The Power of Declaration: Living a Life of Purpose and Faith
“The Declaration” Sermon | 03.30.25
In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, there's a profound power in making a declaration of faith. It's not just about saying words; it's about aligning our hearts, minds, and actions with the truth we profess to believe. This journey of faith is one of dependence on God, recognizing His sovereignty and goodness in every aspect of our lives.
The Psalmist David beautifully captures this sentiment in Psalm 25:1-5:
"To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; in you I trust, O my God. Do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame, but they will be put to shame who are treacherous without excuse. Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long."
This passage isn't just a prayer; it's a declaration of dependence on God. It's an acknowledgment that our hope, our trust, and our very lives are anchored in Him. But what does it mean to truly live out this declaration?
Living a life of faith isn't about perfection; it's about persistence. It's about choosing, day after day, to align our lives with God's will. It's about recognizing that even when we falter, God's grace is sufficient. As Joshua boldly proclaimed in Joshua 24:15, "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." This isn't a one-time decision but a daily commitment to honor God in all we do.
Sometimes, our declarations of faith might seem foolish to the world. We might feel inadequate, unqualified, or simply not enough. But God has a beautiful way of using the seemingly foolish things to confound the wise. As 1 Corinthians 1:27-29 reminds us:
"But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him."
This truth is liberating! It means that our worth and our ability to serve God don't come from our own qualifications or achievements. They come from God's calling and empowerment in our lives. Whether you're young or old, educated or not, God can use you powerfully if you're willing to say "yes" to His call.
Consider the story of Chris Kristofferson, who found himself unexpectedly drawn to the altar at a church service. Despite his initial reluctance, he felt an irresistible pull to respond to the invitation. In that moment of surrender, he experienced an overwhelming sense of forgiveness he didn't even know he needed. This encounter with God's grace led him to write the powerful song "Why Me, Lord?"
This story illustrates a profound truth: sometimes, we don't even realize how much we need God until we take that step of faith. Our declaration of dependence on Him opens the door for His transformative work in our lives.
But our declarations of faith aren't just for our own benefit. They have the power to impact generations. Proverbs 22:6 encourages us to "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." The way we live out our faith, the risks we take in trusting God, and the way we speak about His work in our lives can profoundly influence those around us, especially the younger generation.
It's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of material possessions or worldly success. But Jesus reminds us in Matthew 7:24-27 about the importance of building our lives on a solid foundation:
"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash."
What kind of house are you building with your life? Is it founded on the unchanging truths of God's Word, or on the shifting sands of worldly values?
No matter where you find yourself today – whether you're feeling strong in your faith or struggling to believe – God's invitation is open to you. Matthew 11:28 offers this beautiful promise: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Perhaps today is the day to make a new declaration of faith, to recommit your life to God's purposes.
Maybe you're facing a seemingly impossible situation in your marriage, your finances, or your health. Remember, with God, all things are possible. Your declaration of faith could be the key that unlocks a miracle in your life. It might feel crazy, it might feel uncomfortable, but sometimes the greatest breakthroughs come when we're willing to step out in faith.
As we close, let's remember the powerful words from the hymn "Jesus Paid It All":
"Jesus paid it all, All to Him I owe; Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow."
This is the heart of our declaration – that Jesus has paid the price for our sins, and in Him, we find complete redemption and purpose. Let this truth sink deep into your heart today. Let it shape your thoughts, your words, and your actions. Make your declaration of faith not just with your lips, but with your life.
And as you go forth, remember the beautiful benediction from Jude:
"Now unto Him who is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen."
May your life be a living declaration of God's goodness, power, and love. May you walk in the confidence that comes from knowing you are deeply loved and infinitely valuable to the Creator of the universe. And may your faith inspire others to make their own declarations of dependence on our amazing God.
