06/01/2026
Dear Abiding Savior Family,
It was a blessing to “make history” yesterday with our Auditorium Worship and a special thanks to all who were able to attend and all who worked hard to make it possible. As we enter the new week, I hope and pray that whether you are facing a Marah (bitterness) or an Elim (oasis and palms) you will hold fast to the fact that our Lord is the Lord of both!
Summary: The sermon explored how God transforms our bitter experiences into opportunities for spiritual growth and deeper faith. Drawing from Israel's journey from the triumph at the Red Sea to the bitter waters of Marah, we examined how bitterness can creep into our lives even when we're following God's will. The message reminded us that our Heavenly Father doesn't waste our pain—He uses it to refine us, test our faith, and ultimately heal us. Just as Moses threw a tree into the bitter waters to make them sweet, Jesus was nailed to a tree at Calvary to heal our spiritual bitterness and transform our lives.
Takeaways:
Bitterness is part of life, but it doesn't have to control us. We live in a fallen world, surrounded by fallen people, and we ourselves are fallen. Victory and difficulty can occur within days of each other, just as Israel experienced triumph at the Red Sea only to face bitter waters three days later.
Guard against grumbling—it reveals where our faith truly rests. When our supply falters, our faith is prone to fail. Grumbling isn't just harmless venting; it can become a vote of no confidence against God's provision and leadership in our lives.
God tests to help us succeed, not to watch us fail. Unlike Satan who tempts us hoping we'll fall, God allows tests to refine us, strengthen our faith, and help us set new "personal records" in our spiritual walk. The bitter moments serve a purpose in our spiritual development.
The Lord is our healer—especially spiritually. While physical healing isn't always God's will, spiritual healing through Christ is always available. By His wounds on the cross—that tree—we are healed from the bitterness of sin and shame.
As we head into this week, I encourage you to identify any areas of bitterness in your life and bring them honestly before our Healer. Remember, you may be doing God's will and still face bitter circumstances. Don't let that shake your faith—let it refine it.
In His healing grace,
Pastor Flaa
