God & Me

John 3:16

Zephaniah 3:17

Job 37:16

Luke 1:37

Deuteronomy 7:9

Genesis 1:27

1 John 3:1

Romans 3:23

Psalm 139:14

Ephesians 2:10

Philippians 4:13

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

2 Timothy 3:16

Psalm 95:2

James 1:5

Psalm 62:1

Colossians 3:23

Title: God & Me: Discovering Intimacy in the Divine Connection

With Bishop Ronald K. Powell

Introduction
• The longing for connection: We all have a deep desire for meaningful
connection. Often, we seek fulfillment in worldly relationships, only to be
left feeling that something is still missing.
• A different kind of connection: Our relationship with God offers a depth of
connection beyond anything the world can provide. It’s a haven where we
are fully known, unconditionally loved, and divinely guided.

Point 1: Who is God?
• A God of love: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only
Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
(John 3:16)
• A God of forgiveness: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will
forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
• A God of presence: “The Lord your God is with you, the mighty warrior who
saves.” (Zephaniah 3:17)
• Omniscient (all-knowing): “He reveals deep things from darkness and
brings light to deepest shadow; he exposes motives in the light of day.” (Job
37:16)
• Omnipotent (all-powerful): “For with God nothing is impossible.” (Luke
1:37)
• Faithful: “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful
God who keeps covenant loyalty to a thousand generations of those who
love him and keep his commandments.” (Deuteronomy 7:9)

Point 2: Who Am I?
• Created in God’s image: “So God created mankind in his own image, in the
image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
(Genesis 1:27)
• Loved unconditionally: “See what great love the Father has lavished on us,
that we should be called children of God!” (1 John 3:1)
• Imperfect, yet forgiven: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of
God.” (Romans 3:23)
• Unique and valuable: “For you are fearfully and wonderfully made;
wonderful are your works; my soul knows that very well.” (Psalm 139:14)
• Destined for purpose: “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus
to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians
2:10)
• Can overcome challenges: “I can do all things through him who strengthens
me.” (Philippians 4:13)

Point 3: Strengthening the God & Me Connection
• Prayer: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances;
for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
[Discuss the power of prayer— honest conversation with God]
• Scripture: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching,
rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16)
[Emphasize how scripture speaks to our lives and reveals God’s character]
• Worship: “Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with
music and song.” (Psalm 95:2) [Highlight the importance of expressing
gratitude and adoration]
• Seeking wisdom: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who
gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
(James 1:5)
• Meditation: “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from
him.” (Psalm 62:1)
• Service: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the
Lord, not for human masters.” (Colossians 3:23)

Conclusion:
• Relationship over rules: Christianity isn’t about adhering to rigid laws but
about nurturing an intimate bond with a loving God.
• Journey of transformation: This relationship will change us— refining our
character and drawing us closer to the divine heart.
• Invitation: Will you choose a deeper connection with God today? He is
waiting, arms open wide.

Call to Action:
• Suggest tangible next steps, such as starting a prayer journal, exploring a
Bible study, or finding a supportive faith community.

• Personalize: Share your own experiences and testimonies about your
relationship with God.
• Tailor to Audience: Consider the background of your congregation and
adjust language and examples accordingly.
• Allow for the Spirit: Remain open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance so your
words can resonate with your listeners.

Sources
1. pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
2. www.intermountainministry.org/room-at-the-table-and-what-kind-of-
table/
3. www.hisgoodnews.com/mission-vision