Graduation Sermon Notes

Introduction

• Advice: Run to God, not from God when you make a bad decision.
• Prayer: Encourage graduating seniors to run the race God has set before them, regardless of their next steps (college, trade school, job, military).

Celebration and Congratulation

• Applauding Graduates: Acknowledge and celebrate graduating seniors.
• Personal Note: Celebration of the speaker's daughter's birthday.

Six-Week Study of the Book of Daniel

• Focus: Understanding how to live for Jesus in a world that doesn’t follow His truth.
• Background: Daniel and friends were exiled from Jerusalem to Babylon. They maintained their identity and faith despite Babylon's different ideals.
• Challenges: Daniel faced conflicts like refusing to eat the king's food and not bowing to idols.

Preparing for Life's Challenges

• Final Exam Metaphor: Life's real tests start now, beyond the classroom.
• Application: Look for one practical takeaway to apply to life.

Graduates' Questions

Question 1: Living Wisely with Independence

• Freedom & Responsibility: With freedom comes responsibility; decisions have consequences.
• Biblical Insight: Galatians 6 - Reap what you sow; Hebrews 12:11 - Discipline produces righteousness and peace.
• Decision Types: Hats, Haircuts, and Tattoos (James Clear):
  • Hats: Easily changeable decisions.
  • Haircuts: Decisions with short-term consequences.
  • Tattoos: Long-term, irreversible decisions.
• Examples:
  • Hats: Trying new classes or hobbies.
  • Haircuts: Bad haircuts grow out over time.
  • Tattoos: Marriage, sexual boundaries, substance choices.

Question 2: Setting Good Routines

• Pre-decide Rhythms: Establish non-negotiable daily and weekly habits.
• Spiritual Habits: Daily time with God, weekly church attendance.
• Health: Eat smart, stay active, set bedtimes.
• Relational: Stay connected with Christian friends and mentors.
• Financial: 10-10-80 rule: 10% to God, 10% savings, 80% living expenses.
• Work/Education: Prioritize work and study effectively.

Question 3: Staying Faithful Through Hardships

• God's Presence in Trials: Example of the fiery furnace - God is always with you (Daniel 3).
• Seeking Wisdom: God provides answers and wisdom (Daniel's interpretation of the king's dream).
• Prayer: Vital to seek God’s guidance continually.

Question 4: Finding the Right Friends

• Importance of Friends: Friends have a significant influence; choose wisely.
• Practical Advice: Look for others who are also standing firm in faith in challenging environments.
• Righteous Choose Friends Carefully: Proverbs - The company you keep matters.

Student Stories

Austin's Story

• Background: Strayed from church and faith after personal losses and a mentor moving away.
• Turnaround: Consistent pursuit by his small group leader, Damon, texted weekly for 14 months.
• Return: Came back to church and rededicated life to God at an event.
• Impact of Small Group: Accountability, support, and biblical advice from long-term small group relationships.

Hannah's Story

• Background: Raised in a Christian home yet struggled with mental health issues, leading to multiple suicide attempts.
• Turning Point: Mother’s conversation about identity beyond mental illness.
• Recovery: Gradual change through renewed faith, involvement in church activities, and mission trips.
• Impact: Rediscovered purpose and now called to ministry.
• Advice for Parents: It’s not their fault; they can't control the devil's actions. Be steadfast and supportive.
• Learning about God: God is always waiting, ready to help and change lives.

Conclusion

• Key Takeaway: When making mistakes, run to God, not away from Him.
• Encouragement: God’s forgiveness and restoration are always available, and He has a purpose and plan.
• Pastoral Prayer: Blessing and prayer over graduates for wisdom, strength, and guidance.