The Grace Of The Lord Be With Us

Sermon Opening

Beloved in Christ, have you ever felt spiritually stagnant—faithful in routine, yet dry in the soul? Why can God’s people live for years without victory?

Textual Background

Israel lived twenty years in spiritual defeat after the ark returned. Though chosen by God, their hearts were divided. God raised Samuel to call them back. This passage shows restoration through repentance, prayer, divine victory, and remembrance of grace.

Point I – Grace Calls Us Back to Repentance

• Spiritual longing reveals emptiness
  Israel “lamented” before the Lord.
  Cross-reference: Psalm 42:2.
• True repentance requires decisive action
  The Hebrew shuv means to turn completely.
• Grace opens the door again
  God welcomes His people despite long failure.

Point II – Grace Accompanies Us in Prayer and Battle

• Prayer expresses total dependence
  Cross-reference: Psalm 34:18.
• The Lord fights for His people
  God thundered against the enemy.
• Grace transforms fear into courage
  Like soldiers advancing behind their commander.

Point III – Grace Must Be Remembered and Proclaimed

• Ebenezer: the stone of help
  All victory comes from the Lord.
• Grace is ongoing
  Cross-reference: Lamentations 3:22–23.
• Testimony strengthens future faith
  Spiritual memorials keep gratitude alive.

Closing Call

Grace restores us, strengthens us, and sustains us. Let us return wholeheartedly, pray earnestly, and remember faithfully.

Closing Poem:
From the path we once had strayed,
By grace our souls are firmly stayed.
The Lord who helped us to this day,
Will guide our steps along the way.