Jesus in a bottle (Part 4)

Sermon Notes

Jesus in a Bottle (Part 4) – Blog Post Notes

Introduction

• This series, Jesus in a Bottle, explores how we approach God and who Jesus truly is.

• Many people have a cultural perception of Jesus that is far removed from the real, biblical Jesus.

• Understanding the true Jesus is crucial because:

  • Our faith will be tested.

  • Eternity is at stake.

  • Our discipleship, hope, and family depend on knowing the real Jesus.

• This series is leading up to Easter, pointing us to the cross, resurrection, and the gospel.

Hannah’s Story: A Biblical Example of True Faith

Hannah’s Struggle

• 1 Samuel tells the story of Hannah, a barren woman in deep distress.

• In her time, a woman's ability to bear a son was critical for carrying on lineage.

• Hannah was mocked and burdened, carrying deep sorrow.

Cultural and Personal Struggles

• The societal pressure on Hannah mirrors how culture provokes us today.

  • Messages telling us we must have certain wealth, looks, or status.

  • Voices that tell us we are not good enough.

  • The enemy whispers doubts, making us feel useless and forgotten.

Jesus in a Bottle: The False Approach to Faith

A Faith That Tries to Control God

• Many treat Jesus like a genie, expecting Him to fulfill their wishes.

• American Christianity often promotes a self-centered faith:

  • "God, give me wealth."

  • "Fix my relationships."

  • "Make my life easier."

• True faith surrenders to Jesus as Lord, not as a personal wish-granter.

The Hard Truth About Faith

• True faith means trusting Jesus even when prayers seem unanswered.

• Jesus Himself modeled this in the Garden of Gethsemane:

  • “Not my will, but Yours be done.” (Matthew 26:39)

• Faith doesn’t mean escaping pain—it often means enduring it with trust.

How Do We Ask God for Help?

Hannah’s Prayer

• Hannah was deeply distressed but still brought her pain to God.

• She was mocked, ridiculed, and sorrowful, yet she turned to God in faith.

• Her approach teaches us how to bring our pain to God:

  • Honest prayer – She poured out her soul to the Lord.

  • Worship – Even before receiving her answer, she chose to trust.

Who Speaks Life into You?

• Eli, the priest, initially misjudged Hannah, but then he blessed her.

• We all need spiritual mentors who speak life into us.

• Who is your “Eli”?

  • Someone who encourages you in faith when you are struggling?

  • A mentor who points you back to God?

A Heart Surrendered to God

Hannah’s Prayer vs. Selfish Prayers

• At first glance, Hannah’s prayer might seem like a bargain with God:

  • "If You give me a son, I’ll dedicate him to You."

• But her heart was different from a Jesus-in-a-bottle prayer:

  • She wasn’t demanding. She didn’t say, “If You don’t answer, I won’t trust You.”

  • She wasn’t using God. Instead, she offered her deepest desires back to Him in surrender.

God’s Greater Purpose in Our Pain

• God often uses our struggles for His purposes.

• Our natural desire is to escape suffering.

• Instead of saying, “God, serve my needs,” we should pray:

  • “God, use my life for Your glory.”

• This is the type of prayer that moves mountains.

The Key to Overcoming Struggles: Prayer & Worship

Hannah’s Response

• Instead of bitterness, she turned to prayer and worship.

• She made a choice to worship even before seeing an answer.

• Worship isn’t just music—it’s a posture of surrender to God.

Practical Application: How to Respond in Faith

1. Pray honestly – Pour out your heart before God.

2. Worship intentionally – Even when life is hard, choose to praise Him.

3. Trust God’s timing – The delay is not a denial.

4. Surround yourself with faith-filled people – Have a spiritual mentor who speaks life over you.

The Faithfulness of God

God Remembered Hannah

• “And the Lord remembered her.” (1 Samuel 1:19)

• This simple yet profound verse reminds us:

  • God never forgets us.

  • He is faithful to His promises.

  • Even in suffering, He is working behind the scenes.

Does It Feel Like God Has Forgotten You?

• If you’re struggling, feeling provoked, or doubting, remember:

  • As you pray and worship, God will move.

  • You are not forgotten.

  • His promises will come in His timing and His way.

Communion: A Call to Examine Our Hearts

• Before receiving communion, reflect on these two questions:

  1. What is God saying to me today?

  2. What will I do with what He has spoken to me?

• Faith is not just hearing—it’s responding.

Final Encouragement

• No matter where you are in your journey:

  • Pray and worship.

  • Trust God’s promises.

  • Know that He remembers you.