Knowing God’s Love

Knowing God's Love | Psalm 118

Eric Ashley, Lead Pastor, Parks Church

Key Takeaways

• God's love for us is steadfast, unchanging, and endures forever.

• We often know intellectually that God loves us, but struggle to believe and experience it daily.

• God tells us he loves us, invites us to experience his love, and includes us in his larger story.

• Experiencing God's love should lead to thankfulness and transform how we approach life's challenges.

Study Questions

• Question 1

  Eric mentioned that many Christians intellectually know God loves them but don't experience it daily. Can you relate to this? Why do you think this disconnect happens?

• Question 2

  Reflect on Psalm 118:1-4. Why do you think God repeats the phrase "his steadfast love endures forever" multiple times? How does this repetition impact us?

• Question 3

  The sermon mentioned idolatry, slavery, rivalry, and anxiety as evidence that we don't fully believe in God's love. Which of these do you struggle with most, and how might more truly believing in God's love change that?

• Question 4

  Eric encouraged "trying on" God's love in various life situations. What current challenge in your life could benefit from this perspective?

• Question 5

  Discuss the analogy of Christianity being like a suit that's too big for us to grow into. How have you experienced growth in your understanding and experience of God's love over time?

• Question 6

  How does Jesus' sacrifice on the cross demonstrate God's love for us? How can we keep this truth at the forefront of our minds in daily life?

5-Day Devotional

DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5

Day 1 : Experiencing God's Steadfast Love

READING :

Psalm 118:1-4, 29

DEVOTIONAL :

God's love isn't just a concept—it's a reality he wants us to experience daily. Today's passage emphasizes the enduring nature of God's steadfast love. Reflect on how you've experienced this love in your life. Do you continually internalize it, or is it just head knowledge? Take time to thank God for specific instances where his love has been evident. Challenge yourself to look for signs of his love throughout your day, even in unexpected places or difficult circumstances. Remember, God's love isn't dependent on your performance or worthiness—it's a gift freely given. How might your life change if you lived each moment fully aware of and embracing God's unfailing love?

Day 2 : Faith in the Midst of Trials

READING :

Psalm 118:5-14

DEVOTIONAL :

Life often presents us with challenges that can feel overwhelming. In today's passage, the psalmist recounts various trials, yet maintains unwavering faith in God's presence and help. Consider a current struggle in your life. How can you apply the psalmist's perspective to your situation? Practice reframing your circumstances by declaring God's faithfulness, even when you can't see the outcome. Remember that God's love and presence remain constant, regardless of your situation. How might this shift in perspective change your approach to difficulties? Take a moment to voice your trust in God, echoing the psalmist's words: "The Lord is on my side; I will not fear."

Day 3 : Salvation Through Christ

READING :

Psalm 118:19-24; Matthew 21:1-11

DEVOTIONAL :

The New Testament reveals Jesus as the fulfillment of Psalm 118's prophecy. The "stone the builders rejected" became the cornerstone of our salvation. Reflect on the magnitude of God's love demonstrated through Christ's sacrifice. How does this historical act of love impact your daily life? Consider areas where you might be rejecting Christ's lordship. Are there aspects of your life where you're trying to be your own savior instead of relying on Jesus? Take time to recommit yourself to Christ, acknowledging him as the foundation of your life and the source of your salvation. How can you demonstrate your gratitude for this gift of salvation today?

Day 4 : Hope in God's Promises

READING :

Psalm 118:15-18; Romans 8:28-39

DEVOTIONAL :

Even in moments of discipline or hardship, the psalmist clings to hope in God's goodness. Paul echoes this sentiment in Romans, assuring us that nothing can separate us from God's love. Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God or questioned his goodness. How did you navigate that season? Remember that God's love remains steadfast even when we can't feel it. What promises of God can you cling to in times of doubt or difficulty? Make a list of Bible verses that remind you of God's faithfulness and keep them close for encouragement. How might regularly meditating on God's promises strengthen your faith and hope?

Day 5 : God's Presence in Suffering

READING :

Psalm 118:25-28; 2 Corinthians 1:3-7

DEVOTIONAL :

Suffering is an inevitable part of life, but as believers, we're not left to face it alone. The psalmist calls out to God for salvation and blessing, confident in his response. Paul reminds us that God comforts us in our afflictions, enabling us to comfort others. Think about a recent struggle you've faced. How did you experience God's presence in that situation? Consider how your experiences of God's comfort might equip you to support others who are suffering. Pray for opportunities to share the comfort you've received with someone in need. How can you cultivate a greater awareness of God's presence in both joyful and challenging times?

This Week’s Liturgy & Playlist

CALL TO WORSHIP

Leader: You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; you are my God; I will extol you.

People: Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!

Psalm 118:28-29

Confession of Sin

Father, our hearts are not steadfast in your steadfast love. When we feel surrounded or pressed, we look for help in people or plans instead of crying out to you. We trust in our own strength and forget that you are our salvation. Forgive our pride and fear. Thank you that your love endures forever. Turn our hearts to rejoice in you and take refuge in you alone.

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you.

Psalm 86:5

Looking Ahead

Next week’s scripture: Psalm 5