SERMON RECAP AND STUDY GUIDES

Citadel of Praise Sermon Recap & Study Guide

Topic: "Winning While Wounded" Pastor B

Dear Citadel Family,
 

I hope this email finds you well and encouraged after our recent service.
 

Summary: Our sermon, "WINNING WHILE WOUNDED…Purpose in the Wound," explored the powerful story of Naaman in 2 Kings 5:1-15. We learned that our wounds and struggles don't disqualify us from victory. Instead, they can become the very means through which God reveals His power and purpose in our lives. Just as Naaman's leprosy led him to a transformative encounter with God, our challenges can lead us to deeper faith and unexpected blessings.

Takeaways:

• Your wounds don't define you: Like Naaman, we can be successful and struggling, victorious and vulnerable. Our challenges don't negate our achievements or God's work in our lives.
• Humility opens doors to healing: Naaman's initial pride almost cost him his miracle. When we humble ourselves and follow God's instructions, even if they seem too simple, we position ourselves for breakthrough.
• Our scars become our testimony: The very things that wounded us can become powerful testimonies of God's healing and grace, encouraging others who face similar battles.

As we move forward this week, let's remember that God can use our deepest struggles for His highest purposes. Whether you're feeling strong or wounded today, know that God is working all things together for your good and His glory.

May we all have the courage to say, like Jacob, "I won't let go until you bless me," trusting that our faithful obedience will lead to transformation.
 

Blessings,

Pastor B

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from the sermon transcription:
 

Day 1: Winning While Wounded Reading: 2 Kings 5:1-15 Devotional: Naaman's story reminds us that our wounds don't disqualify us from victory. Like Naaman, you may be successful in many areas of life, yet still carry hidden pain or struggle. Today, reflect on your own "buts" - the wounds you carry despite outward success. Remember that God can use these very wounds as pathways to greater purpose and spiritual growth. How might God be working through your current struggles? Ask Him to reveal the purpose in your pain and to give you the strength to keep moving forward, even while wounded.
 

Day 2: Unexpected Messengers Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 Devotional: In Naaman's story, healing directions came from an unexpected source - a captured servant girl. God often uses unlikely people and circumstances to bring about our deliverance. Today's reading reminds us that God chooses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise. Are you open to hearing God's voice through unexpected channels? Reflect on times when God has spoken to you in surprising ways. Ask for the humility to recognize His messages, even when they come from sources you might normally overlook or dismiss.
 

Day 3: Simple Obedience, Profound Healing Reading: John 9:1-7 Devotional: Naaman almost missed his miracle because he expected something grand, not a simple act of washing in the Jordan. Similarly, Jesus often gave simple instructions that led to profound healing, as we see in today's reading. Sometimes, the path to our breakthrough requires simple obedience rather than grand gestures. What simple acts of obedience might God be calling you to today? It could be forgiving someone, serving in a humble way, or taking a small step of faith. Remember, these simple acts can lead to life-changing results when done in obedience to God.
 

Day 4: Scars as Testimonies Reading: Isaiah 53:3-5 Devotional: Today's passage reminds us that Jesus was wounded for our transgressions, and by His stripes, we are healed. Our Savior's scars became the source of our salvation. Similarly, our own scars and wounds can become powerful testimonies of God's healing and grace. Reflect on the 'scars' in your life - past hurts, failures, or struggles. How has God worked through these to shape you and possibly help others? Ask God to help you see your scars not as sources of shame, but as monuments to His faithfulness and power to redeem.
 

Day 5: Strength in Weakness Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 Devotional: Paul's thorn in the flesh teaches us a profound lesson - sometimes God's power is made perfect in our weakness. Like Paul, we may pray for our struggles to be removed, only to find that God's grace is sufficient in the midst of them. Today, consider the areas where you feel weak or inadequate. Instead of seeing these as liabilities, how might they become opportunities for God's strength to shine through? Ask God for the courage to boast in your weaknesses, knowing that when you are weak, then you are strong in Christ.

Citadel of Praise Sermon Recap & Study Guide

Topic: "Don't Go Chasing Waterfalls" Min. Braveboy 

Subject: Don't Go Chasing Waterfalls: Returning to God's Living Waters

Dear Church Family,

I hope this email finds you refreshed and inspired by our recent gathering. As we reflect on Sunday's message, I wanted to share some key points to keep us anchored in God's truth throughout the week.

Summary: The sermon explored the profound message in Jeremiah 2:13, warning against forsaking God, the true source of fulfillment, for worldly substitutes. We examined how easily we can drift away from the "fountain of living waters" and futilely attempt to build our own "broken cisterns" that ultimately fail to satisfy our deepest needs. This message challenges us to evaluate where we're seeking satisfaction and calls us back to the unfailing wellspring of life found only in God.

Takeaways:

• Recognize the "waterfalls" in your life: Identify areas where you might be chasing after worldly solutions or distractions instead of relying on God's provision.
• Examine your "broken cisterns": Reflect on self-made systems or dependencies you've created that promise fulfillment but leave you spiritually dry.
• Return to the Fountain: Make a conscious effort to prioritize your relationship with God, allowing His living waters to refresh and sustain you daily.

As we move forward, let's encourage one another to stay connected to our true source of life. Remember, no matter how enticing the world's "waterfalls" may appear, they can never compare to the endless supply of living water we have in Christ.

May you be filled to overflowing with God's presence this week.

DEVOTIONAL:

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from the sermon transcription:

Day 1: The Living Fountain Reading: Jeremiah 2:11-13, John 4:1-14

Devotional: God describes Himself as "the fountain of living waters" - a source of life, refreshment, and endless sustenance for our souls. Yet how often do we turn away from this wellspring of life to pursue temporary satisfactions? Reflect on areas in your life where you might be settling for less than God's best. Are there "broken cisterns" you've been relying on - relationships, achievements, or material possessions that promise fulfillment but leave you feeling empty? Today, consciously turn your heart back to God. Spend time in prayer, asking Him to reveal Himself as the true source of your satisfaction. Let His living water quench the deepest thirsts of your soul.

Day 2: Forsaking the Fountain Reading: Isaiah 55:1-3, Psalm 36:7-9

Devotional: The tragedy described in Jeremiah isn't just that people turned away from God, but that they actively forsook Him. Consider the gravity of this - abandoning the Creator and Sustainer of all life. Yet God's invitation remains open: "Come, all you who are thirsty." Today's passages paint a picture of God's abundant provision contrasted with our tendency to seek fulfillment elsewhere. Reflect on times when you've chosen lesser things over intimacy with God. What motivated those choices? How did they impact your spiritual life? Ask the Holy Spirit to heighten your awareness of God's presence and provision throughout your day. Choose to "delight in abundance" by intentionally turning to God rather than worldly solutions.

Day 3: The Danger of Self-Made Solutions Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-8, John 15:1-8

Devotional: The image of "broken cisterns" speaks to our human tendency to craft our own solutions apart from God. These might even look spiritual on the surface - perhaps an overemphasis on religious activity without heart connection, or building a ministry platform motivated more by personal ambition than divine calling. Jeremiah contrasts the person who trusts in human strength with one who trusts in the Lord. Similarly, Jesus uses the vine and branches metaphor to illustrate our utter dependence on Him. Today, examine your life for areas where you might be striving in your own strength rather than abiding in Christ. Surrender those areas to God, asking Him to realign your efforts with His purposes and power.

Day 4: Returning to the Source Reading: Psalm 42:1-2, John 7:37-39

Devotional: The imagery of thirst runs throughout Scripture, highlighting our soul's deepest longings that can only be satisfied in God. David's cry, "My soul thirsts for God," echoes the universal human need for divine connection. Jesus' invitation to "come and drink" offers the ultimate fulfillment of that need. Today, allow yourself to feel the weight of your spiritual thirst. Instead of trying to quench it with worldly distractions, bring that longing directly to Jesus. Spend extended time in His presence, allowing His Spirit to fill you afresh. Ask God to increase your thirst for Him, knowing that as you draw near, He promises to draw near to you (James 4:8).

Day 5: Living Waters Flowing Out Reading: Ezekiel 47:1-12, John 7:38

Devotional: The beautiful vision in Ezekiel depicts living waters flowing from God's temple, bringing life and healing wherever they go. Jesus takes this imagery further, declaring that streams of living water will flow from within those who believe in Him. This is the transformative power of the Holy Spirit working in and through us. As you've spent this week reconnecting with God as your true source, consider how He might want to use you as a channel of His living water to others. Are there people in your life who need refreshment, hope, or healing? Ask God for opportunities to share His love and truth. Remember, you can only give out of the overflow of what you've received from Him. Stay connected to the Fountain, and let His life flow through you to a thirsty world.

Citadel of Praise Sermon Recap & Study Guide

Topic: "No Participation Trophies In Heaven" Min. Braveboy 

Dear Church Family,

I hope this email finds you well and still reflecting on Sunday's powerful message.

Summary: Our recent sermon, "No Participation Crowns in Heaven," explored the profound truth that while salvation is a free gift, our eternal rewards are based on faithful service. Min. Braveboy reminded us that heaven doesn't hand out participation trophies but rather crowns for those who live with intentional obedience, endurance, and surrender to Christ. This message challenges us to examine how we're living our lives and what we're truly investing in for eternity.

Takeaways:

• The Judgment Seat of Christ is not about condemnation, but an evaluation of our faithfulness and obedience after salvation. This should motivate us to live purposefully for God's glory.
• There are various crowns mentioned in Scripture as rewards for different aspects of faithful living - from enduring trials to shepherding God's people. These crowns aren't for our status but will be cast before God's throne in worship.
• We should be intentional about storing up treasures in heaven through obedience, sacrifice, and love. Every unseen act of faithfulness is noticed and will be rewarded by God.

As we go about our week, let's keep in mind that we're not just living for the here and now, but for eternity. How can we run our race with more purpose, discipline, and love for Christ? Remember, it's never too late to start investing in your heavenly account.

May we all strive to hear those beautiful words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

In His service,

STUDY GUIDE 

"No Participation Crowns in Heaven"

Opening Prayer: Ask God to open our hearts and minds to understand His truth about eternal rewards and how we can live faithfully for Him.

Ice Breaker Question: Share a time when you received an award or recognition. How did it make you feel, and why was it meaningful to you?

Key Scripture: Revelation 22:12 (NKJV) "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work."

Discussion Questions:

1. The sermon emphasized that salvation is free, but rewards are based on faithful service. How does this concept challenge or encourage your understanding of the Christian life?
2. Discuss the Judgment Seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10). How does knowing that we will give an account of their lives impact how you live day-to-day?
3. The sermon mentioned five crowns as potential rewards. Which crown resonates most with you, and why?
4. How do you balance living for eternal rewards while avoiding a works-based mentality about salvation?
5. What does it mean to "lay up treasure in Heaven" (Matthew 6:20)? Share practical examples of how we can do this in our daily lives.
6. The sermon used an analogy of sending treasure ahead when relocating. How can this perspective shift the way we view our priorities?

Key Takeaways:

1. Heaven doesn't give participation trophies; rewards are for faithful service.
2. Our lives after salvation will be evaluated at the Judgment Seat of Christ.
3. God notices and rewards even our secret acts of obedience and love.
4. We should live for the eternal "Well done" rather than earthly applause.

Practical Applications:

1. This week, intentionally perform one act of service or kindness in secret. Only to God.
2. Reflect on your  use of time, talents, and resources. Identify one area where you can be more intentional about eternal investments.
3. Start a "Heavenly Treasure" journal to record ways you're investing in eternity through obedience, sacrifice, and love.
4. Choose one of the "crowns" mentioned and focus on growing in that area (e.g., disciplined living, sharing your faith, enduring trials).
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Closing Prayer: Thank God for the free gift of salvation. opportunity to serve Him faithfully. Ask for His help in living with eternal perspective and for the strength to run the race with endurance.

Challenge for the Week: Each day, ask yourself: "How am I running to obtain the prize today?" Share your experiences with the group next week.

Citadel of Praise Bible Study Recap & Study Guide

Topic: Spiritual Maturity

Spiritual maturity is the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ. It is the alignment of our lives with God's Word and character. As we walk in the Spirit and grow in our relationship with God, we begin to display the Fruit of the Spirit, develop discernment, walk in love, and reflect God's glory to the world.

• Key Principles:
  
  • The flesh and the Spirit are at war.
  • Those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh.
  • Maturity is reflected by walking step-by-step under the Spirit's guidance.
  • The Fruit of the Spirit includes: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

• Key Principles:
  
  • Spiritual maturity is a lifelong journey.
  • We must forget what is behind and press forward.
  • The mature Christian remains focused on knowing Christ.

• Key Principles:
  
  • God has given us everything needed for life and godliness.
  • We are responsible for adding to our faith: virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love.
  • These qualities make us effective and fruitful in Christ.

1. Spiritual Fruit – Galatians 5:22–23
2. Perseverance – James 1:2; Galatians 6:9; Romans 5:3–5; Hebrews 12:1
3. Discernment – Hebrews 5:14; 1 John 4:1; Philippians 1:9–10; Hebrews 4:12
4. Right vs. Wrong – Hebrews 5:14
5. Grounded in Truth – Ephesians 4:13–16
6. Rooted in Love – 1 Corinthians 13:4–8; 1 Peter 4:8; Galatians 5:13–14; 1 John 4:8; Colossians 3:14
7. Serves in the Church – Ephesians 4:13–16
8. Lives Eternally-Minded – Philippians 3:13–15
9. Controls Speech – James 3:2
10. Walks in Integrity – Proverbs 10:9; Proverbs 20:7

• Maturity is Progression: It’s not perfection, but direction. Are you pressing forward?
• The Role of the Holy Spirit: Spiritual maturity is impossible without the power of the Holy Spirit. Are you yielding daily to His guidance?
• Love is the Core: Spiritual maturity is always marked by sincere, Christ-like love.

Just as fruit doesn’t grow overnight, neither does spiritual maturity. Yet, the Gardener is faithful. Each day, as we surrender to the Spirit and follow His lead, we are being shaped more into the image of Christ. When we display His fruit, walk in His truth, serve His body, and love as He loved—we reflect spiritual maturity. Let us walk by the Spirit, not in our own strength, but in total dependence on Him.

“Let us press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 3:14

1. What area of spiritual maturity do you see the most growth in your life?
2. Where do you feel God is calling you to grow more?
3. How can you better walk in the Spirit this week?
4. Which of the 10 characteristics do you need to focus on?
5. What spiritual discipline (prayer, Bible reading, fellowship, etc.) do you need to strengthen?

Stay rooted. Stay growing. Stay fruitful.

Subject: Navigating Spiritual Tension: Pushed by God, Pulled by the Enemy

Citadel Family,

I hope this email finds you well and still reflecting on Sunday's powerful message.

Summary: Our sermon, "Pushed and Pulled...Spiritual Tension," explored the dynamic struggle every believer faces between God's calling and the enemy's opposition. We delved into Romans 7:14-25, examining how God is constantly pushing us closer to Him, seeking to move us from complacency to a place of greater faith and purpose. Simultaneously, we acknowledged the reality of the enemy's pull, trying to drag us away from God's plan. This spiritual tension is not a sign of failure, but evidence that we're engaged in the spiritual battle described in Scripture.

Takeaways:

• God is actively pushing us closer to Him, often through discomfort and challenges, to fulfill His greater purpose in our lives.
• The enemy is constantly pulling us away through temptation, distraction, and discouragement, making spiritual discernment crucial.
• Our response to this tension determines our spiritual growth; we must lean into God's push and resist the enemy's pull through prayer, Scripture, and community.

As we navigate this push and pull in our daily lives, remember that you're not alone in this struggle. God has already secured the victory through Jesus Christ, and He's given us the tools we need to stand firm. Let's encourage one another to recognize these spiritual forces at work and to consistently choose to move closer to God, even when it's uncomfortable.
​​​​​​​

May we all be like trees planted by streams of water, unmoved by the enemy's tactics and ever-growing in our faith and purpose.

HERE IS YOUR DAILY DEVOTIONAL:

Day 1: Embracing God's Push Reading: Genesis 12:1-9

Devotional: God is constantly pushing us closer to Him, calling us out of our comfort zones and into a deeper relationship. Just as He called Abram to leave his homeland, God is calling you to step out in faith. Today, reflect on areas in your life where you may have settled for "good enough." Are there places where God is nudging you to move forward? Remember, God's push is always rooted in love and aimed at your spiritual growth. Ask Him for the courage to respond to His call and move beyond your "Here" into His "There."

Day 2: Resisting the Enemy's Pull Reading: 1 Peter 5:8-11

Devotional: While God pushes us forward, the enemy seeks to pull us back. Today's reading reminds us to be alert and of sober mind. The spiritual tension we experience is real, but it's also evidence that we're alive in Christ. Consider the areas in your life where you feel most vulnerable to the enemy's tactics. How can you strengthen your resistance? Remember, you have the power to choose which direction you'll move. Lean into God's strength, put on the full armor of God, and stand firm in your faith.

Day 3: Finding Victory in Spiritual Tension Reading: Romans 7:14-25

Devotional: Paul's honest struggle in today's passage reflects the push and pull we all experience. We desire to do what is right, yet find ourselves pulled towards what we know is wrong. This tension can be frustrating, but it's also an opportunity for growth. Today, instead of becoming discouraged by your struggles, view them as opportunities to lean more fully into God's grace. Thank God for His mercies that are new every morning and for the ultimate victory we have in Christ Jesus.

Day 4: Drawing Near to God Reading: James 4:7-10

Devotional: In the midst of spiritual tension, we have a powerful promise: when we draw near to God, He draws near to us. Today's passage gives us practical steps for resisting the enemy and moving closer to God. Reflect on what it means to submit yourself to God fully. How can you humble yourself before Him today? Remember, every step towards God is a step away from the enemy's influence. Choose to cleanse your hands, purify your heart, and let your mourning over sin turn into the joy of God's presence.

Day 5: Standing Firm in God's Love Reading: Romans 8:31-39

Devotional: As we conclude this week's devotional, let's focus on the unshakeable foundation of God's love. No matter how strong the push or pull in our lives, nothing can separate us from God's love in Christ Jesus. Today, meditate on the depth and breadth of this love. How does knowing you are inseparably loved by God impact your daily life? Let this truth empower you to stand firm in faith, resist the enemy's pull, and continually move towards God's push into greater purpose and intimacy with Him.

In His strength,

Pastor B

"If you don't do anything else today...YOU B BLESSED!

Principal Scripture: John 20:24–29

24 Now Thomas (also known as Didymus[a]), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!”

But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”

26 A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”

28 Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”

29 Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

SUMMARY: In this powerful message, Pastor B reminds the church: faith is not about what you see—it’s about what you know. God is preparing you for what’s ahead, not just what’s in front of you. But many of us, like Thomas, have let disappointment, absence, or limited understanding keep us from believing God for more.

God knows us and will show up in a closed situation and give your the proof your need to believe. If you want to know if God is a healer...I'M THE PROOF!

Thomas missed a move of God, and his frustration gave birth to unbelief. Yet Jesus still showed up—for him, for us—to deal with our doubt and restore our expectation. The word of the Lord is: GREATER is coming… and when it does, Don’t Blink.

⸻

Key Moments:

• Thomas wasn’t present when Jesus first appeared to the disciples (v.24).

• He doubted their testimony: “Unless I see… I will not believe.” (v.25)

• Jesus appears again and invites Thomas to touch His wounds (v.26–27).

• Thomas declares: “My Lord and my God!” (v.28)

• Jesus blesses those who believe without seeing (v.29).

• The purpose of these signs is to build belief (v.30).

⸻

🧠 Study Outline for Members: “Don’t Blink”

I. When You Miss the Moment (vv. 24–25)

• Thomas wasn’t there when Jesus first showed up.

• His absence opened the door for doubt, disbelief, and frustration.

• His famous quote wasn’t just doubt—it was pain, anger, and disconnection.

Key Point: Your missed moments can cloud your faith—don’t let what you missed keep you from what’s coming.

Discussion Questions:

• Have you ever felt like you missed God’s move?

• How do you respond when others testify of what you didn’t experience?

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II. Jesus Shows Up Again (vv. 26–27)

• 8 days later, Jesus enters a locked room and comes just for Thomas.

• Jesus directly addresses Thomas’ need: “Put your finger here…”

• God will meet you where your faith is weak—but He won’t leave you there.

Key Point: God is not intimidated by your doubts—He shows up to elevate your faith and keeps showing up!

Supporting Scriptures:

• John 14:29 – “I told you this before it happens, so you will believe.”

• Mark 16:14 – Jesus rebuked their unbelief.

Discussion Questions:

• What would it look like for Jesus to “show up” in your current situation?

• What is Jesus asking you to touch so you’ll believe again?

⸻

III. The Shift from Doubt to Declaration (v. 28)

• Thomas’ response was immediate: “My Lord and My God!”

• One encounter erased all uncertainty.

Key Point: One authentic experience with Jesus will turn doubt into worship.

Supporting Quote:

🎵 “He’s preparing me for something that I can’t handle right now…”

Reflection: Sometimes God allows you to miss it so you will recognize it when He shows up again.

⸻

IV. Believe Before the Breakthrough (v. 29)

• Jesus says those who believe without seeing are blessed.

• This word is for the next level of faith—not just to believe for what is, but for what’s not yet.

Key Point: Don’t blink—this next move will be so unexpected, so undeniable, that you must believe ahead of it.

Supporting Scriptures:

• Philippians 1:6 – “He who began a good work…”

• Jeremiah 29:11 – “Plans to prosper you, give you hope…”

• John 5:20 – “Greater works… so you will marvel.”

Discussion Questions:

• Where are you still waiting to see before you believe?

• What does it mean to believe God even when you don’t see movement?

⸻

V. Marvel at the Miracle (vv. 30–31)

• Jesus did many signs—not to impress, but to inspire belief.

• Every miracle is a faith training moment.

Key Point: The goal is not just belief—it’s preparation for GREATER.

Closing Challenge:

“When it happens, don’t blink. Don’t flinch. Don’t doubt. Just BELIEVE.”

⸻

🔥 Declarations: Speak This Over Your Life

• GREATER is coming, and I won’t miss it!

• I believe even when I can’t see.

• Jesus is more than I imagined—He’s my Lord and my God!

• I will not blink when my miracle shows up.

• God is training my faith for what’s next—not just what’s now.

⸻

Worship Reflection:

“He’s Preparing Me” – Remind your spirit that the current season is preparation for what you can’t even handle yet.

Prayer Point:

“Lord, deal with the Thomas in me. Help my unbelief. Train my faith for the greater. Don’t let me miss the moment when You show up. Give me eyes to see, ears to hear, and a heart that will BELIEVE.”

Use this summary and study guide to learn more and apply it to your everyday life. Amazing Things Are Happening Here!

Pastor B

"If you don't do anything else today...YOU B BLESSED!