Why does God allow suffering? Why do prayers sometimes go unanswered? And how do you trust God when life doesn't make sense?

In Part 2 of May I Ask A Question... Again?, Senior Pastor Jeffrey Smith tackles some of the most difficult questions believers face. Through stories from Scripture—including Joseph, Paul, Job, and Jesus— you discover that suffering is rarely simple, God's purposes are often bigger than your understanding, and His presence is more valuable than the answers you seek.

This episode explores how to navigate pain, unanswered questions, and seasons of confusion while learning to trust God's character even when His ways seem impossible to understand. When understanding runs out, faith begins—and the cross reminds you that God is often doing His greatest work when it appears He is doing His least.

Pastor Jeffrey Dean Smith

Donelson First

Part 2 - When God Does Not Make Sense

June 21, 2026

Is it okay to question God? Does He welcome our questions? What do we do when heaven seems silent?

As we begin this summer series, Senior Pastor Jeffrey Smith lays a biblical foundation for navigating life's hardest questions. Discover why God is not threatened by your doubts, why His presence is greater than any explanation, and why faith often requires trusting Him even when answers do not come.

Through Scripture, personal stories, and practical encouragement, this message explores five foundational anchors every believer needs before seeking answers about suffering, loss, God's will, and life's deepest mysteries.

Sometimes the greatest answer God gives is not an explanation - it is Himself.

For the past several weeks, we have been asking a defining question as a church family: Who are we becoming?

In this fourth and final Vision Sunday message, Senior Pastor Jeffrey Smith challenges Donelson First to move beyond inspiration and into obedience. Throughout Scripture, whenever God revealed His vision, He always expected a response. Noah built. Abraham went. Moses obeyed. The disciples left their nets and followed.
Vision was never given merely to be admired. Vision was given to be obeyed.

As God continues to move at Donelson First, this message calls every believer to take ownership of the mission by fully committing to the church, finding their place in ministry, stewarding the House of God faithfully, and going all-in for the Kingdom of Christ.

Drawing from James 1, Habakkuk 2, Romans 12, and Isaiah 6, this message reminds us that healthy churches are not built by spectators, but by surrendered people who say, "Yes, Lord. Use me."

The future of the Church is not determined by vision statements, strategies, or buildings. It is determined by the people of God responding in obedience to the call of God.

The question is no longer, "Did you hear the vision?"

The question is, "What will you do with it?"