The Pack Bible Podcast: Week 11

This week we are reading through Acts 1-5:25, Psalms 49-53, and Jer. 14-18

Our host Glenn Power chats with guest Steven McClain about his questions, and what stuck out to him from that chunk of scripture.

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Bible Reading Plan

Scripture References: Isaiah 41:10; John 10:25-30

Intro: These sermon notes capture the Radiant Pack Bible Podcast interview featuring guest Steve McLean. With a long history in the church community and a life rich with experience, Steve shares personal stories and wisdom gleaned from decades of following Jesus, offering encouragement for perseverance in faith.

Key Points:

1. Early Life & Faith Journey: Steve recounted humorous childhood stories (including an encounter with Hopalong Cassidy). Though raised in church (Presbyterian), he came to a personal, life-changing faith in Jesus at age 9 during an altar call at a church camp.
2. Meeting Janet: Shared the memorable story of being "smitten" upon first meeting his wife, Janet, emphasizing his deep gratitude for her character and their life together.
3. Crisis & God's Word (Isaiah 41:10): Steve described facing a diagnosis of a rare, incurable blood disease at age 38. In this time of uncertainty, the words of Isaiah 41:10 ("Do not fear, for I am with you... I will strengthen you...") became a vital source of comfort and strength.
4. Hearing God's Voice: Shortly after his diagnosis, Steve testified to hearing God speak directly and audibly, assuring him, "Do not be afraid... I'm not going to take you now." This specific word provided lasting peace regarding his illness over the subsequent 35+ years. God speaks through both Scripture and direct communication.
5. Key to Long-Term Steadfastness: When asked about keys to staying steady with Jesus through life's unpredictable difficulties, Steve highlighted: 
   • Prayer: Consistent prayer, both individually and with his wife, is crucial for building courage and maintaining awareness of God's presence and relationship.
   • God's Secure Grip (John 10:27-30): Resting in the profound truth that believers are Christ's sheep whom He knows, gives eternal life to, and holds securely. "No one will snatch them out of my hand... no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand." This provides ultimate security.

Conclusion: Through engaging stories spanning his entire life, Steve McLean illustrated God's enduring faithfulness. His journey underscores the importance of grounding ourselves in Scripture (Isaiah 41), listening for God's voice, prioritizing prayer, and finding ultimate security in the knowledge that we are held firmly in God's loving and powerful hands (John 10).

Call to Action: Draw encouragement from Steve's testimony of God's lifelong faithfulness. Prioritize prayer in your own life. Turn to Scripture like Isaiah 41:10 for strength in trials. Find deep security and rest in the truth that nothing can separate you from God's loving grip (John 10).