Power in the Waiting
SUMMARY
This sermon explores the theme of waiting as a season of spiritual formation, drawing parallels between John Wesley's early years of preparation and the disciples' waiting period between Jesus' ascension and Pentecost. Pastor Brandon emphasizes that waiting is not wasted time but rather God's way of deepening our faith, building character, and preparing us for His purposes. Through Wesley's story - from his rescue from a house fire as a child to his years of disciplined religious practice before experiencing true spiritual transformation - we see that God often works in hidden seasons to form us before using us. The disciples similarly had to wait for the Holy Spirit's power rather than rushing into ministry through human strength alone. The sermon challenges the congregation to trust God's timing and recognize that preparation often feels powerless, but God uses these seasons to create dependence on Him rather than on our own abilities.
INTRO PRAYER
Heavenly Father, as we gather together in this small group, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us today. Help us to be vulnerable with one another and receptive to Your Spirit's leading. We acknowledge that we don't always understand Your timing or Your ways, but we trust that You are always working for our good. Prepare our hearts to receive whatever You have for us in this time together. In Jesus' name, Amen.
ICE BREAKER
What's something you've had to wait for recently that tested your patience? How did you handle the waiting?
KEY VERSES
Acts 1:8
Zechariah 3:2
John 20
QUESTIONS
How do you typically respond when God asks you to wait? What emotions or thoughts come up for you?
Pastor Brandon mentioned that 'waiting is where God often does his deepest work.' Can you share about a time when God used a waiting season to grow or change you?
Wesley learned that 'human effort alone cannot produce spiritual transformation.' How have you experienced the difference between striving in your own strength versus depending on God's power?
The disciples wanted Jesus to restore Israel's political kingdom, but He promised them spiritual power instead. How do we sometimes focus on changing our circumstances when God wants to change us?
What does it mean to be 'rooted in the unseen' during seasons when we can't see what God is doing?
The sermon states that 'preparation rarely feels powerful at the time.' How can we stay faithful during seasons that feel unproductive or hidden?
Jesus told the disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit's power before beginning their mission. How does this apply to our own calling and ministry today?
Pastor Brandon described himself as part of 'the unashamed' who have Holy Spirit power. What would it look like for you to live with that same confidence and dependence on God?
LIFE APPLICATIONS
This week, identify one area where you've been trying to move ahead of God or operate in your own strength. Commit to spending time in prayer, asking God to show you how to wait on Him in that situation. Practice trusting His timing rather than pushing for your own timeline, and look for ways He might be forming your character during this season.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Waiting is not wasted time but a season where God does His deepest work of formation and preparation
God often builds character and dependence before giving us influence or platform
Human effort and discipline alone cannot produce spiritual transformation - we need the Holy Spirit's power
Hidden seasons are frequently holy seasons where God is preparing us for what lies ahead
We must learn to trust God's timing and process rather than demanding immediate answers or outcomes
