Conversations
With an Atheist:
Determinism, Suffering and God

Pastor Dave Michel
February 4 , 2007



Sermon Summary

Please press the play button below to hear the sermon (mp3 file).

(To download the sermon, right-click HERE and select the option: "Save Target As..." and save the file to your own hard drive.)

 

 

Scripture and Prayer Guide


February 5-9, 2007
"Conversations With An Atheist: Determinism, Suffering and God"

Monday, Romans 8:28
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. "

If we believe that God does not cause every thing to happen, we can also believe that God is in each thing that happens, working to bring good. This does not deny the events that bring suffering; some things can really hurt. In hindsight, though, we often see some good that God has brought out. Lift up to God a difficult area in your life in which you will look for good.

Tuesday, Psalm 23:1-2
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,


The rest of this week we will meditate this beautiful, best known Psalm of comfort. The Shepherd's role was to safely walk the sheep through dangerous places. Thank God for being present in your journey.

Wednesday, Psalm 23:3
3 He restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.


Can we walk these difficult paths praying that God would be honored and praised in the way we walk them? Can God guide us on His path? As you walk through your day, pray for your walk.

Thursday, Psalm 23:5
5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.


The promise is not that there will be no places of danger, no enemies. The promise is that God will provide what we need in the presence of the enemy. Anointing was used as a sign of both healing and blessing. We will find ourselves in situations where we need both.

Friday, Psalm 23:6
6 Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.


We will all face the end of our days here on earth. It's not if we'll die, but when. The ultimate aim of all of our lives is to glorify God and enjoy God forever. He will bring us through when we call upon Him. Call.