In church the praise and worship time led to an overwhelming presence of God. Pastor never got to his message as he allowed the spirit to have time in a message, time of dedication and prayer, and more worship. It was very awesome.
The passages that Pastor gave before benediction were for affirming and strength in the times of trouble.
1 John 4:17-18 Amplified:
17 In this [union and communion with Him] love is brought to completion and attains perfection with us, that we may have confidence for the day of judgment [with assurance and boldness to face Him], because as He is, so are we in this world.
18 There is no fear in love [dread does not exist], but full-grown (complete, perfect) love [g]turns fear out of doors and expels every trace of terror! For fear [h]brings with it the thought of punishment, and [so] he who is afraid has not reached the full maturity of love [is not yet grown into love’s complete perfection].
Philippians 1:27-28 Amplified
27 Only be sure as citizens so to conduct yourselves [that] your manner of life [will be] worthy of the good news (the Gospel) of Christ, so that whether I [do] come and see you or am absent, I may hear this of you: that you are standing firm in united spirit and purpose, striving side by side and contending with a single mind for the faith of the glad tidings (the Gospel).
28 And do not [for a moment] be frightened or intimidated in anything by your opponents and adversaries, for such [constancy and fearlessness] will be a clear sign (proof and seal) to them of [their impending] destruction, but [a sure token and evidence] of your deliverance and salvation, and that from God.
I was looking for a song of strength and steadfastness; a song recognizing we have no need of fear of the world if our faith is in Christ. I found some really wonderful songs by Don Moen put to video (thank you Mich and others). It was a hard choice but this is the one I selected for today:
Your Love Never Fails!
Psalm 112:6-8
6 Surely the righteous will never be shaken;
they will be remembered forever.
7They will have no fear of bad news;
their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.
8Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear;
in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.
Lord - I give thanks that I stand assured in my belief that God is my Creator, Christ is my Redeemer and the Holy Spirit is my Counselor and Comforter.
