Embracing God’s Promise and Pattern with a Thankful Heart
By Rhema South Coast Family Church
This past Sunday, we enjoyed a powerful message from Kurt Jackson as Ps Larry and Mandy take a well‑deserved break for their 17th wedding anniversary. Kurt reminded us that understanding God’s promises and walking in His pattern fills our lives with unshakeable joy—even when trials come.
Why a Thankful Heart Matters
“I count it all joy when I fall into various trials…” (James 1:2–4 NKJV). That’s not easy to say, but when you know God’s promises, gratitude becomes your strongest defense. Trials will always come, but a thankful heart anchors you in faith and turns obstacles into opportunities for growth.
“In the midst of my greatest challenge, I discovered more of God’s faithfulness—and my heart overflowed with gratitude.”
That’s the posture Kurt challenged us to adopt. Rather than grumbling, we practise thanksgiving. Rather than sinking into despair, we trust in the One who holds our future.
God’s Unchanging Promises
We focused on ten promises Jesus gave His disciples in the upper room (John 13–16).
Here are a few highlights:
Unending Love
John 13:34: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another as I have loved you.”
His love is the foundation. When you face rejection or hardship, remember: Jesus loves you to death—literally.
Eternal Companionship
John 14:2–3: “In My Father’s house are many mansions… I will come again and receive you to Myself.”
We’re never alone. Even in the darkest hour, our destiny is secure with Him.
The Holy Spirit as Helper
John 14:16–17: “I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper… the Spirit of truth.”
The Holy Spirit guides, comforts and empowers us every day.
Provision
John 14:13: “Whatever you ask in My name, that I will do…”
When we pray in alignment with God’s character and purpose, He meets our needs.
God’s Promise = Peace Beyond Understanding
John 14:27: “My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.”
World circumstances may rage, but God’s peace sustains us.
Each promise reveals a piece of God’s pattern for our lives. Grasping them fuels our gratitude—and gives us boldness to face whatever comes next.
The Pattern God Calls Us To | God’s Promise
Kurt unpacked how God’s pattern in Scripture always leads from promise to purpose:
- Trust & Obedience
Proverbs 3:5–6 calls us to lean not on our own understanding. Trust sparks obedience. - Transformation & Renewal
Romans 12:2 urges us not to conform but to be transformed by renewing our minds in God’s Word. - Fruitful Living
John 15:5 tells us that abiding in Christ produces lasting fruit.
When we follow God’s pattern—belief, transformation, and fruitfulness—we align our daily walk with His eternal plan.
From Trials to Triumph
Kurt shared a personal testimony of being held during an armed home invasion. In that terrifying moment, he chose to pray for the intruders—and God’s peace enveloped him.
That experience cemented his faith and showed him how trials, when met with prayer and gratitude, refine us and deepen our trust.
Your trials can shape you too—not break you—when you embrace God’s pattern:
- Acknowledge His love
- Remember His promises
- Reach out in prayer
- Respond with thanksgiving
Watch, Reflect, and Connect
🎥 Watch the full sermon by Kurt Jackson
YouTube: God’s Promise and Pattern – Thankful Heart
📖 Explore the start of this series
The Pattern: God’s Plan for Your Life
🏠 Stay connected with Rhema South Coast
Visit Our Home Page
🔥 Examine Your Heart Today
Today, I invite you to:
A thankful heart transforms trials into testimonies and ordinary days into celebrations of God’s faithfulness.
Let’s be a church that radiates joy because we know—and trust—His promises.
Closing Prayer
Father God,
Thank You for the promises You’ve spoken over us. In every trial, remind us of Your unending love, Your peace, and Your presence through the Holy Spirit. Teach us to follow Your pattern—trusting, obeying, and producing fruit. Fill our hearts with gratitude, that we might live lives that honour You and bless those around us.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
