Culto Iglesia 1ª Asamblea de Dios Gijón 21/09/2025
Welcome to the House of the Lord
Introduction and Reverence
- The speaker welcomes everyone, emphasizing that they are in the house of the Lord, not just a church. They highlight the importance of reverence when entering a sacred space.
- The entrance to the temple is described as having steps that require careful navigation, symbolizing respect and caution when approaching God.
Importance of Gathering
- The speaker stresses that gathering as a church is significant and brings blessings from God. They reference a biblical promise regarding unity among believers.
- A passage from Psalms 100:1-5 is shared, encouraging joyful worship and recognition of God as Creator, reinforcing community identity.
Attitude Towards Worship
- Emphasis on coming with a good attitude and concentration during worship services. The speaker encourages attendees to focus their minds on praising God.
- A reminder is given about maintaining reverence while also celebrating joyfully in God's presence.
Worship Through Song
Call to Worship
- The speaker invites participants to acknowledge God's greatness through song, using "Hallelujah" which means "praise be to God."
Lyrics and Themes
- Lyrics express gratitude for God's presence and greatness, inviting congregants to join in worship together.
Reflection on Mercy
Daily Renewal
- Discussion on God's mercy being renewed every day; this serves as an encouragement for gratitude upon waking each morning.
Spiritual Preparation Before Sleep
- It’s mentioned that before sleeping, one should present themselves before God in worship due to the spiritual significance of sleep resembling death.
Celebration of Faithfulness
Eternal Praise
- Repeated affirmations of praise ("Alelo ya") signify ongoing worship across generations, highlighting faithfulness throughout time.
Conclusion with Joyful Exuberance
Worship and Reflection on God's Holiness
The Importance of Seeking God
- The speaker emphasizes the significance of seeking God with sincerity, highlighting that His presence is beneficial for believers.
- A call to worship is made, inviting generations to bow down and sing praises to the Lamb who has overcome challenges.
Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty
- The speaker acknowledges God's holiness and encourages worshippers to recognize their need for salvation through Him.
- Repeated calls to praise the Lamb signify a deep reverence for God's redemptive power.
Personal Testimony and Transformation
- The speaker shares personal experiences of forgiveness and transformation, urging listeners to express gratitude if they have experienced liberation from sin.
- Emphasis on being transformed by faith in God, suggesting that true change comes from believing in His power.
Challenges in Life and Biblical Reference
- Discussion about life's difficulties, including feelings of disappointment and loss, reflecting on how these experiences can affect one's outlook.
- Introduction of the prophet Habakkuk as an example; he faced suffering but ultimately found joy in God despite dire circumstances.
Conclusion: Joy Amidst Trials
- Habakkuk's declaration serves as a reminder that even when external circumstances are bleak (e.g., lack of harvest), one can still rejoice in the Lord.
Understanding Joy and Inner Strength
The Nature of Joy
- A child describes happiness as fleeting moments, like vacations or ice cream, contrasting it with a deeper, internal joy that exists within us despite darkness.
- This inner joy is always present and lacks color, suggesting it transcends external circumstances.
Finding Joy in Difficult Times
- The speaker encourages reflection on personal struggles while emphasizing the importance of rejoicing in the Lord amidst worldly troubles.
- Reasons for maintaining joy include its role as our strength; when one is joyful, challenges seem lighter and more manageable.
Biblical Foundations of Joy
- Reference to Nehemiah 8:10 highlights that "the joy of the Lord is our strength," indicating that true joy stems from a relationship with God.
- Our changed destiny through Christ provides a foundation for this joy; believers are assured of eternal life rather than condemnation.
Transformation Through Faith
- The speaker emphasizes the transformation from despair to hope through faith in Christ, illustrating how God changes our state and outlook on life.
- Psalm 30:11-12 reinforces this idea by celebrating God's ability to turn mourning into dancing and bring forth praise from our hearts.
Testimonies of Resilience
- Personal stories highlight individuals who have overcome deep depression through faith, showcasing God's transformative power in their lives.
- The speaker finds great joy in hearing testimonies of persecuted Christians who remain steadfast due to divine support during tribulations.
The Fruit of the Spirit
- Joy is identified as a fruit of the Spirit; it should naturally manifest in believers' lives alongside love, peace, patience, etc., stemming from a relationship with God.
Barriers to Experiencing Joy
- Reflecting on past losses can hinder current joy; it's essential to accept life's changes without dwelling on what was lost.
Life's Unexpected Turns and Embracing the Present
The Journey of Life and Its Surprises
- Life can take unexpected turns, as illustrated by a couple who went on a cruise only to end up in a hospital in Alaska. This reflects how we often plan for the future without knowing what it holds.
Living in the Present
- The speaker emphasizes the importance of enjoying today, stating that "today is the day given by God." This perspective encourages mindfulness and appreciation for the present moment rather than solely focusing on future plans.
Daily Intentions
- Each day should be an opportunity to improve relationships: speaking kindly to neighbors, treating spouses better, and spending quality time with children. The urgency of "today" highlights that procrastination can lead to missed opportunities.
Understanding Timing in Life
- There is a time for everything under heaven; joy, sorrow, growth, and rest all have their appropriate moments. As one ages, they recognize that life unfolds at its own pace with both expected and unexpected events occurring at designated times.
Acceptance of God's Plan
- Accepting God's timing is crucial; rushing through life or resisting change can lead to dissatisfaction. Everyone has different experiences and timelines which shape their lives uniquely. Embracing this diversity allows individuals to find peace in their personal journeys.
Finding Joy Through Gratitude
Celebrating Others' Blessings
- The speaker discusses how rejoicing in others' successes enhances one's own joy; feeling happy for others leads to double blessings rather than envy or resentment when comparing oneself against them.
Perspective on Trials
- Complaining about life's challenges diminishes one's spirit and strength; maintaining gratitude fosters resilience even during difficult times. Acknowledging God's presence during struggles helps maintain hope and energy for moving forward despite adversity.
Individualized Divine Treatment
- Just as parents treat each child differently based on their unique needs, God also interacts with individuals according to what suits them best—this personalized approach is essential for spiritual growth and understanding one's purpose in life.
The Importance of Acceptance
Embracing Personal Growth
- Spiritual development involves becoming more like Jesus over time; this transformation occurs uniquely within each person based on individual circumstances and experiences shaped by God’s guidance throughout life’s journey.
Seeking God During Distress
- In moments of anguish or distress, turning towards God provides solace rather than succumbing to despair through complaints which drain one’s spirit—maintaining faith strengthens resolve amidst trials faced along life's path.
Trusting God's Plan
Personal Testimonies
- Sharing personal stories about accepting divine calling illustrates how trusting God's plan—even when it diverges from personal desires—can lead to fulfillment and joy over time despite initial difficulties encountered along the way.
Understanding Joy and Sin
The Relationship Between Sin and Joy
- The speaker reflects on their past experiences with a physician, expressing contentment in God's plan despite initial doubts. They emphasize the importance of not rejecting God's plan for one's life, as it is inherently good.
- Referencing Psalm 51:11-12, the speaker discusses King David's loss of joy due to sin, highlighting his plea to God to restore that joy and spirit.
- The speaker warns that sin can rob individuals of joy. They stress the necessity of obedience to God's word, noting that misinterpretation or selective adherence leads to disobedience.
Steps Toward Regaining Joy
- To regain joy after sinning, one must first repent. The speaker encourages listeners to acknowledge their sins and seek forgiveness as David did.
- Sharing the Gospel is presented as a source of immense joy. Engaging in evangelism brings fulfillment and happiness derived from serving God.
Experiencing Joy Through God's Presence
- The presence of God is described as a source of complete joy. The speaker urges individuals facing challenges to engage in worship and prayer to experience this divine joy.
- By honoring God through worship and recognizing His greatness, believers can cultivate an inner flow of joy amidst life's difficulties.
Personal Reflections on Love and Sacrifice
- The speaker shares a personal anecdote about cooking for their father out of love, illustrating how acts of service reflect love for others—and by extension—love for God.
- They highlight that loving someone involves making sacrifices and taking actions that please them, paralleling this with obeying God’s commands.
Overcoming Challenges with Joy
- Acknowledging ongoing struggles with sin is crucial; however, victory over these challenges should be celebrated as a reason for rejoicing in the Lord's transformative power.
- Meditating on Scripture is emphasized as another way to find joy. Understanding biblical teachings deepens one's relationship with God and enhances spiritual growth.
Finding Joy Amid Trials
- James 1:2 encourages believers to consider trials as opportunities for great joy because they strengthen faith.
- Despite hardships, maintaining an attitude of "supreme joy" signifies trust in God's work within oneself during difficult times.
Paul’s Example in Adversity
- The speaker references Paul's imprisonment while writing Philippians 4:4, where he instructs believers to rejoice always regardless of circumstances—a testament to finding peace amid suffering.
Reflection on Faith and Joy
The Nature of God’s Presence
- "Él lo está limitado." - Acknowledges the omnipresence of God, emphasizing that He is not confined to any limitations.
- "Él está en todas partes." - Reinforces the idea that God's presence is everywhere, providing comfort and assurance.
The Importance of Rejoicing
- "¿Cómo no me voy a regocijar si él pueda hacer maravillas?" - Expresses the necessity of rejoicing in God's ability to perform miracles.
- "Porque cuando me regocijo lo que estoy haciendo es Repasar lo que él pueda hacer." - Highlights that rejoicing involves reflecting on God's past deeds and miracles.
Reflection on Life's Challenges
- "Él estaba pensando en sus padres cuando él no estuviera..." - Discusses a poignant moment where a young boy reflects on his relationships, prompting listeners to consider their own connections with God amidst trials.
- "...pero también hay muchas cosas." - Acknowledges life's complexities and challenges while maintaining faith in God's goodness.
Encouragement During Trials
- "Así que si estás pasando por pruebas, Si estás sufriendo, goza tener." - Encourages believers to find joy even during difficult times, trusting in God's plan.
- "Él ya sabe con qué te vas a enfrentar. tú te puedes gozar." - Reminds that God is aware of our struggles and we can rejoice because He has control over our circumstances.
Celebration of Community and Faith
- "...celebrar que Cristo va a volver" - Emphasizes the importance of community celebrations within faith practices, particularly regarding Christ's return.
Event Announcements and Community Engagement
Upcoming Events
- An announcement for a workshop on watercolor painting scheduled for November 1st, emphasizing community involvement.
- Confirmation of another event taking place on November 2nd, highlighting the importance of participation.
Spiritual Reflections
- A call to embrace a new generation of believers who share the word out of love rather than obligation, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to gather and worship.
- Personal testimony shared about the blessings received from participating in a camp, encouraging others to engage actively in church activities.
Community Outreach Initiatives
Support for Those in Need
- Discussion on preparing care packages for countries in need, with an emphasis on collective effort and heartfelt contributions.
- Reflection on God's mercy and the privilege of waking up each day, reinforcing faith and gratitude within the community.
Worship Practices and Attitudes
Reverence in Worship
- Emphasis on entering the temple with respect and reverence, drawing attention to how physical actions reflect spiritual attitudes.
- Encouragement to focus during worship services by mentally preparing oneself before attending church gatherings.
Joyful Praise
- A reminder that worship should be filled with joy as congregants are encouraged to praise God enthusiastically.
Amoramos Sol: A Reflection on Faith and Joy
Repeated Themes of Worship
- The phrase "Amoramos sol, en que eres el dolor" is repeated multiple times, suggesting a deep connection between love, pain, and worship.
- The repetition emphasizes the significance of this sentiment in the context of faith and devotion.
- The continuous invocation highlights a ritualistic aspect of worship that intertwines joy with suffering.
Expressions of Gratitude and Praise
- References to singing praises to God indicate a communal expression of faith among believers.
- The speaker mentions God's name as being above all others, reinforcing the idea of divine supremacy.
- There is an emphasis on forgiveness and salvation through songs dedicated to the Lamb, symbolizing hope amidst despair.
Biblical Allusions and Personal Reflections
- The speaker reflects on personal experiences with forgiveness and emptiness, linking them back to spiritual themes.
- A call for unity in worship is made through repetitive phrases that encourage collective participation in praise.
Lessons from Habakkuk's Struggles
- Introduction of the prophet Habakkuk’s story illustrates grappling with divine justice amid suffering.
- Habakkuk questions God about impending calamity due to his people's sins, showcasing human doubt in divine plans.
Conclusion: Finding Joy Amidst Trials
- Despite hardships described by Habakkuk—lack of produce or livestock—the conclusion remains hopeful: "I will rejoice in the Lord."
Joy in the Lord: Understanding Inner Joy
The Nature of Joy
- Joy is described as an internal state, distinct from external circumstances. It exists within us, often overshadowed by darkness and lack of color.
- The speaker emphasizes that joy can be a source of strength, encouraging listeners to focus on their current struggles while maintaining a joyful spirit.
Biblical Foundations for Joy
- Reference to Nehemiah 8:10 highlights that "the joy of the Lord is your strength," suggesting that true joy comes from God and our relationship with Him.
- The transformation brought by knowing Christ changes one's destiny from hell to heaven, providing a profound reason for joy.
Personal Transformation Through Faith
- Psalm 30:11-12 illustrates how God can turn mourning into dancing, showcasing His power to change our emotional states.
- A personal testimony is shared about a woman who overcame severe depression after finding faith in God at age 78, demonstrating the transformative power of divine intervention.
Support During Trials
- The speaker notes that God supports believers during tribulations, which serves as a source of great joy amidst suffering.
- Emphasizes that joy should be a natural fruit of the Spirit in every believer's life, alongside love and peace.
Barriers to Experiencing Joy
- Discusses common obstacles to experiencing joy such as lamenting past losses or missed opportunities.
- Worrying about the future detracts from present happiness; living in anticipation can prevent one from enjoying today’s blessings.
Living in the Present
- Reflecting on past relationships or church dynamics can lead to dissatisfaction; it's important to embrace current realities rather than dwell on what was lost.
- Acknowledges challenges faced when adapting to new environments but stresses not allowing these difficulties to rob one of their joy.
Enjoying Today: A Reflection on Time and Gratitude
The Importance of Living in the Present
- Emphasizes the need to enjoy today as a gift from God, highlighting that living consciously in the present is essential.
- Stresses taking action today, whether it's improving relationships or spending time with family, to avoid wasting opportunities.
Understanding Timing in Life
- References Ecclesiastes, noting that everything has its time and season; there’s a time for joy and sorrow.
- Discusses how life presents unexpected events and stresses the importance of recognizing appropriate moments for actions.
Acceptance of Life's Phases
- Reflects on childhood desires to grow up quickly versus those who resist growing; acknowledges different perspectives on maturity.
- Highlights that there are times when responsibilities may feel overwhelming but encourages dedicating time to loved ones during these phases.
Valuing God's Work in Our Lives
- Warns against undervaluing what God does for others; encourages celebrating others' blessings instead of feeling envious.
- Suggests that rejoicing in others' successes can lead to personal joy, emphasizing community support and shared happiness.
Dealing with Complaints and Expectations
- Discusses how complaints can diminish one's spirit; emphasizes maintaining joy even amidst challenges.
- Compares parenting styles, explaining that each child requires different approaches based on their unique needs.
Trusting God's Plan for Individual Lives
- Encourages trust in God's tailored approach to each person's life journey, acknowledging individual differences.
- Urges acceptance of God's plan despite personal preferences, asserting that His plans are ultimately better than our own aspirations.
The Joy of the Lord: Understanding God's Plan
Embracing God's Plan
- The speaker expresses contentment with God's plan for her life, emphasizing that it is inherently good and should not be rejected.
- She references Psalm 51:11-12, highlighting how sin can rob one of joy, as exemplified by David's plea to God to restore his joy and spirit.
The Impact of Sin on Joy
- The speaker warns against justifying personal sin by misinterpreting scripture; she stresses that all believers are called to obey God's word.
- Disobedience, such as failing to honor one's parents, is identified as a straightforward example of sin that leads to a loss of joy.
Pathways to Regaining Joy
- Sharing the Gospel is presented as a source of immense joy; the act brings internal happiness and fulfillment from serving God.
- The presence of the Lord is described as a source of complete joy, encouraging believers to seek Him through worship and recognition.
Obedience and Personal Sacrifice
- The speaker illustrates how acts of love towards others (e.g., cooking for loved ones) reflect obedience and bring joy in serving God.
- Overcoming personal struggles with sin or bad habits results in great rejoicing, showcasing transformation through faith.
Finding Joy in Trials
- Believers are encouraged not to become complacent but remain vigilant against recurring sins while celebrating victories over them.
- Meditating on Scripture fosters joy by revealing God's detailed plans and teachings for believers' lives.
Rejoicing Amidst Challenges
- James 1:2 encourages finding "pure joy" during trials because they test faith and produce perseverance.
- The speaker acknowledges the difficulty in maintaining joy during hardships but emphasizes that these challenges signify God’s work within us.
Paul’s Example in Adversity
- Reference is made to Paul's imprisonment where he still found reasons to rejoice, illustrating resilience through faith despite dire circumstances.
- Philippians 4:4 serves as an encouragement for continual rejoicing in the Lord regardless of external situations.
Trusting in God's Power
- The speaker reassures listeners that their problems are insignificant compared to God’s greatness, urging them not to limit His power.
How to Rejoice in Adversity?
The Power of Rejoicing
- The speaker expresses joy in God's ability to perform wonders, emphasizing the importance of reflecting on His past actions and blessings.
- A story is shared about a 13-year-old boy with a terminal illness who wrote down cherished memories for his parents, highlighting the significance of gratitude even in dire circumstances.
Reflecting on God's Goodness
- The speaker questions how we can remember the good moments in our lives, especially as children of God who have experienced His care during tough times.
- Encouragement is given to create a personal list of God's faithfulness and support through life's challenges, reinforcing that this reflection leads to rejoicing.
Personal Testimony
- The speaker reflects on their own life journey since conversion, acknowledging both struggles and God's unwavering goodness despite personal shortcomings.
- An invitation is made for those facing trials to find joy in God’s greatness and sovereignty over their situations.
Call to Action
- Listeners are reminded to recall burdens they carry and choose to rejoice in God amidst them, reinforcing the message that He has already planned outcomes for their struggles.
Prayer and Worship
- A prayer is offered thanking God for His faithfulness and asking for His joy to manifest freely in believers' lives rather than mere happiness.
The Importance of Communion
Preparing for Communion
- Instructions are given regarding participation in communion, emphasizing its significance after being baptized and accepting Christ as Lord.
Conduct During Communion
- A warning is issued about taking communion lightly; individuals should reconcile with others before partaking if there are unresolved conflicts or sins.
Reflection on Jesus’ Sacrifice
Celebrating Faith and Community
The Significance of Communion
- The act of communion is highlighted as a moment to remember the sacrifice of Jesus, emphasizing the importance of His love for humanity.
- Participants are encouraged to reflect on the significance of Christ's death and resurrection, marking a pivotal point in history that divides time into "before" and "after."
Transitioning from Childhood to Adulthood
- A special celebration occurs as a child from Sunday school transitions into full church membership, symbolizing growth within the community. This mirrors adult commitments made to Christ.
- The child expresses gratitude towards teachers and mentors who have guided them through their spiritual journey, highlighting the role of community support in personal development.
Prayer for Growth and Faithfulness
- A prayer is offered for the child's continued faithfulness throughout their youth, asking for divine guidance as they grow into adulthood. The focus is on nurturing positive traits while discarding negative influences.
Upcoming Events and Community Engagement
- Announcements include various upcoming events such as meetings for seniors and children's club activities aimed at fostering community spirit among members. Specific dates are provided for clarity.
- Emphasis is placed on participation in mission work and workshops that aim to enrich both individual lives and the broader church community through shared experiences. Details about fundraising efforts are also mentioned.
Reflection on Blessings Received
¡Seguirá Cristo! A Message of Hope and Community
Expressions of Faith and Resilience
- The speaker emphasizes a recurring theme of resilience in faith, stating "¡Hen sido otra vez!" which translates to "It has been again!" This repetition signifies a strong belief in overcoming challenges through faith.
- The phrase "¡Seguirá Cristo!" is reiterated, highlighting the unwavering commitment to Christ as a source of strength and guidance amidst difficulties.
- The speaker contrasts pain with the power of faith, asserting that despite hardships ("Más que cuando te duele"), one can find solace in their spiritual beliefs.
Personal Reflections on Blessings
- A personal testimony reveals how witnessing the growth of children from previous camps into responsible youth has been a significant blessing. This reflects the importance of community and mentorship within faith-based initiatives.
- The speaker shares heartfelt memories about past camp experiences, emphasizing that these moments have fostered deep connections and blessings in their life.
Community Outreach Initiatives
- An announcement regarding a Christmas operation for children highlights community involvement. Participants are encouraged to create shoebox gifts for underprivileged children, showcasing collective efforts to spread joy during the holiday season.
- Details about last year's outreach efforts are shared, mentioning various countries that received aid. This illustrates the global impact of local community actions.
Encouragement for Participation
- The speaker invites everyone to contribute to this charitable initiative by preparing gifts with love and care. Writing letters to accompany gifts is encouraged as it adds a personal touch that can uplift recipients.
Closing Prayer and Reflection