Finding Strength in Simplicity: God's Unchanging Word in a Changing World
“Keep It Simple” Sermon | 05.18.25
In a world that seems to be constantly evolving, where technology advances at breakneck speed and societal norms shift like sand beneath our feet, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Many of us find ourselves longing for simpler times, yearning for a respite from the complexity that surrounds us. But what if the answer to our modern struggles lies not in the latest innovation, but in the timeless simplicity of God's word?
The beauty of Scripture is that it doesn't change. While our world may be in constant flux, the truth contained within the pages of the Bible remains steadfast. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." This simple yet profound statement offers an anchor for our souls in turbulent times.
Consider the enduring power of Psalm 23, a passage that has comforted believers for generations:
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul."
These words, penned thousands of years ago, still resonate with us today. They speak to our deepest needs for guidance, provision, and restoration. In a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable, the image of a loving shepherd leading us to peaceful waters is a balm for our weary spirits.
But it's not just the familiar passages that offer us comfort. Throughout Scripture, we find God speaking to us in simple, accessible ways. In Matthew 6, Jesus uses everyday examples to teach us about trust and priorities:
"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"
He goes on to point out the lilies of the field, reminding us that if God clothes the grass with such beauty, how much more will He care for us? These straightforward illustrations cut through our anxieties and worries, inviting us to place our trust in a God who cares deeply for His creation.
Even in the Old Testament, we find God using simple objects to teach profound truths. In 2 Kings 6, there's an account of a borrowed axe head that falls into a river. The prophet Elisha throws a stick into the water, causing the iron axe head to float. This miraculous event can be seen as a metaphor for our own spiritual condition. Like the sunken axe head, we are lost and unable to save ourselves. But through Christ's intervention – symbolized by the stick – we are lifted up and given new life.
This story reminds us of the transformative power of God's Spirit, as described in Romans 8:11: "And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you." Just as the properties of the stick seemed to transfer to the axe head, defying natural laws, so too does the Spirit of God work in us, bringing life where there was once only death.
In our quest for deeper spiritual truths, we sometimes overlook the simple yet profound messages God has for us. We may think we need complex theological arguments or esoteric knowledge to grow in our faith. But often, it's the straightforward truths of Scripture that have the most significant impact on our lives.
Consider the ant, as mentioned in Proverbs 6:6-8:
"Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest."
This simple observation of nature provides a powerful lesson about diligence and preparation. God's wisdom is often found in the everyday, if only we have eyes to see and ears to hear.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it's crucial to remember that our faith doesn't need to be complicated. The core message of the Gospel is beautifully simple: God loves us, Christ died for us, and through faith in Him, we can have eternal life. This truth, encapsulated in John 3:16, has the power to transform lives today just as it did two thousand years ago.
In Isaiah 43, God reminds His people of His unchanging nature and unfailing love:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you."
These words offer comfort and assurance, reminding us that no matter what challenges we face, we are known and loved by the Creator of the universe. Our identity and security are found not in our circumstances or achievements, but in our relationship with God.
As we reflect on these timeless truths, let's challenge ourselves to embrace the simplicity of faith. This doesn't mean ignoring the complexities of life or avoiding difficult questions. Rather, it means grounding ourselves in the unchanging promises of God's word, allowing its simple yet profound truths to shape our perspective and guide our actions.
In a world that often feels overwhelming, let's find strength in the simplicity of trusting God. Let's look for His handiwork in the everyday – in the birds of the air, the flowers of the field, and even the industrious ant. And let's remember that the God who spoke the universe into existence also speaks to us through His word, offering guidance, comfort, and hope.
As we close, consider these words from the Psalms:
"The Lord preserves the simple; when I was brought low, he saved me." (Psalm 116:6)
May we approach our faith with the trust and openness of a child, confident in the knowledge that our complex God often reveals Himself in beautifully simple ways. In doing so, we may find that the peace and strength we seek have been available to us all along, waiting to be discovered in the timeless pages of Scripture.
