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  PROVERBS 22:13
  by Chuck Smith
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Summary: The sermon teaches that excuses and fear hold people back from
achieving higher goals and living a life for Christ.

Topics: "Overcoming Excuses", "Faith and Trust in God"
Scripture References: Proverbs 22:13, Isaiah 41:10, Matthew 6:33, John 14:1, Romans 8:31, 1 Corinthians 10:13, Philippians 4:13, 2 Timothy 1:7, Hebrews 12:1-2, 1 Peter 5:7

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DESCRIPTION
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Chuck Smith discusses the excuses made by the lazy man, likening them to
imaginary lions that prevent individuals from pursuing a higher life in
Christ. He emphasizes that these lions, representing fear, unbelief, and
comfort, hinder people from taking risks and making sacrifices for their
faith. Smith encourages listeners to confront these obstacles and trust
in God's ability to sustain them, rather than allowing fear to dictate
their choices. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to a life of faith,
despite the challenges that may arise.

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CONTENT
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Intro: "There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets."

I. THE LAZY MAN'S REASON FOR NOT WORKING.

A. A lion in the way.

B. "A man good at making excuses is good for nothing else."

C. In the winter, "it's too cold."

a. In the summer it's the heat.

D. The lazy man will have his lion and he will not thank you if you

get it out of his way.

II. THESE LIONS ALSO KEEP PEOPLE FROM HIGHER GOALS.

A. There are hundreds of inducements to a life for Christ - many

lions.

B. Many impediments to a life of sacrifice for Christ - many lions.

C. Much easier to go as water; the path of least resistance down the

hill.

III. EVERY ROAD TO A HIGHER LIFE HAS AN IMAGINARY LION.

A. You're mixed up with the wrong gang - not bad but not good, you

just fool away your time.

1. Decide to change but oh those lions.

B. When you have done something wrong two paths.

1. Honesty.

2. Lying or concealment.

C. Called to higher life.

1. Lion of unbelief.

a. "I don't know which church to believe."

b. Told to believe in Christ.

2. Lion of fear. "I would be a Christian, but I am afraid

I could not hold out."

a. Sick person arguing thus.

"I would like to be well, but I am afraid

I could not stay well."

"Some disuse might, put me back down."

"I better just stay sick."

b. We are not commanded to hold out just to

entrust ourselves to Him.

"Now unto Him who is able to keep you from falling..."

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/chuck-smith/proverbs-2213/
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