Chuck Smith emphasizes the tendency of individuals to make excuses for not pursuing their ambitions in Christ, likening these excuses to 'lions in the way' that deter us from our spiritual journey. He points out that many start with high aspirations but often fall short due to fear of challenges and a lack of commitment. Smith encourages believers to confront their imagined difficulties and take initiative in their spiritual growth, rather than relying on external instruction. He illustrates this with the example of the young prodigal, who faced challenges stemming from his own choices. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a proactive approach to overcoming obstacles in our faith.

Intro: A lazy ma's reason for not winning lost "Lion in the way." "Man good at making excuses good for nothing else." Lion in winter is cold in summer heat, hill or valley. I. FEW START WITH HIGH AMBITIONS IN CHRIST. A. Like water run down hill. B. Dread for difficult tasks. C. Give neither half their power or half their time. 1. Gold ore not half extracted tailings of our life. 2. Good reasons for not being skilled, "No one to instruct, or tell how." Rousing up and finding out for themselves is very thing needed." II. ALL ATTEMPTS TO COME INTO HIGHER LIFE HAVE IMAGINED DIFFICULTIES (LIONS). 1. Young prodigal. 2. Mixed with company not good not bad. 3. Difficulty from own sin Confession or Consequence.