In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Abraham in Genesis 14. Abraham hears that his brother Lot has been taken captive and immediately gathers his trained servants to pursue the captors. Despite being outnumbered, Abraham and his servants successfully defeat the enemy and rescue Lot and the other captives. After the battle, the king of Sodom approaches Abraham and offers him the spoils of war, but Abraham refuses, recognizing it as a temptation. Instead, Abraham encounters Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of the Most High God, who blesses him and receives a tithe from Abraham. The sermon emphasizes the importance of resisting worldly temptations and remaining faithful to God's calling.

In this sermon, the speaker addresses the impact of terrorism on our lives and the fears it has brought. He acknowledges the loss of jobs and the economic downturn caused by these events. Despite the discouragement and uncertainty about the future, the speaker encourages turning to the Lord for comfort and strength. He emphasizes the importance of finding encouragement in the Word of God during times of disaster and highlights the goal of terrorists to instill fear in people's hearts. The speaker concludes with a prayer for those troubled by the state of the world, asking for God's help, guidance, and comfort.

Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of encouraging oneself in the Lord during times of discouragement, uncertainty, pressure, fear, and depression, as exemplified by David's experience in I Samuel 30:6. He highlights that David sought God's wisdom through prayer, sang spiritual songs, gathered with fellow believers, focused on God's perspective, and immersed himself in Scripture. These actions not only uplifted David but also transformed him into an inspirational leader who ultimately led his men to victory. The sermon encourages believers to actively seek encouragement from God in their struggles.

In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the seemingly anticlimactic conclusion of the letters to the Romans and Colossians, which consist of a long list of names. He acknowledges that it may appear trivial compared to the profound truths discussed earlier in the letters. However, he suggests that when we consider the context and background of these individuals, the significance of their inclusion becomes clearer. Specifically, he focuses on the story of John Mark, a young man who initially joined Paul and Barnabas on a missionary journey but eventually faced challenges and disappointments. The speaker highlights the importance of understanding the struggles and growth of individuals like John Mark in the broader narrative of the Gospel.

In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Job and how he faced hard times. Job's friends initially provided comfort by simply being present, but they made things worse when they started blaming Job for his troubles. Despite the inexplicable and unexplainable circumstances, Job turned his focus to God and realized that his troubles were invaluable for his spiritual growth. The preacher encourages the audience to see their own hard times as opportunities for spiritual enlargement and to turn back to God.

In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of feeling downcast, depressed, and sad. He emphasizes the importance of talking to oneself and questioning these negative feelings. The speaker encourages listeners to ask their souls why they are feeling this way and reminds them of God's love and promise to help. By bringing God into the equation, the speaker suggests that it can have a positive effect on one's feelings and prevent them from being overwhelmed by negative emotions. The sermon highlights the need to divert attention from accepting these feelings and instead focus on God's presence and promises.

A.B. Simpson emphasizes the vital role of 'helps' in the church, highlighting that these acts of service and encouragement often precede more visible leadership roles. He encourages believers to engage in various forms of support, such as prayer, giving, and offering words of cheer, drawing inspiration from the examples of Aquila and Priscilla. Simpson reminds the congregation that every act of help contributes to the greater work of the church and that those who assist will be rewarded in due time. He challenges listeners to reflect on how they can support their pastors, family, and fellow workers, reinforcing the idea that every contribution matters in the body of Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a spirit of joyful service, assuring that those who help will share in the joy of the harvest.

Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the vital role of encouragement in the Christian community, drawing from biblical examples of Moses, David, Jesus, and Paul, who all urged their followers to be strong and courageous. He highlights the detrimental effects of discouragement, as seen in the story of the twelve spies, and encourages believers to focus on victories, maintain a positive outlook, and support one another in faith. Brengle calls for a shift in perspective, urging individuals to recognize the burdens of leaders and to foster an environment of encouragement rather than criticism. He concludes with a reminder that even the weakest among us can uplift others through love and testimony, ultimately reflecting God's goodness.

In this sermon, the preacher discusses a message that was preached on the first day of the sixth month in the second year of God yesterday. The message resulted in the people obeying the voice of the Lord and fearing Him. The preacher emphasizes the importance of allowing God to speak to us before we can hear Him. He also mentions a second message that was delivered on the twenty-first day of the seventh month, where the Lord questions the people about their actions and reminds them that He is with them. The sermon encourages the listeners to seek inspiration from the Lord and highlights the power of His message.

In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith begins by discussing the closing events of 1 Samuel, which include the death of Saul and his sons at the hands of the Philistines. He then transitions to the topic of finding strength and encouragement in the Lord, using the example of David in 2 Samuel. Pastor Chuck emphasizes the importance of relying on God's strength rather than our own, and encourages listeners to seek contentment in godliness rather than satisfying their fleshly desires. He concludes by urging believers to walk with God, experience His presence, and be a witness for Him in their lives.

J. Oswald Sanders emphasizes Paul's message of encouragement in the face of discouragement, drawing from 2 Corinthians 4. He reflects on his own experience of feeling pressured while serving in a challenging mission field, and how Paul's assurance of not losing heart stems from the mercy of God, the strength provided through the Holy Spirit, and the promise of eternal glory. Sanders highlights that despite outward struggles, believers can find renewal and courage by focusing on the unseen and trusting in God's timing for harvest. Ultimately, he encourages the congregation to embrace their ministry and remain steadfast in faith, knowing that God is at work even when results are not immediately visible.

In this sermon, the preacher focuses on 1 Peter 1:13-16 and encourages the audience to gird up their minds for action, keep sober in spirit, and fix their hope completely on the grace to be brought at the revelation of Jesus Christ. The preacher poses the question of how well Peter, as described in the Gospels, fulfilled these commands. The preacher acknowledges that Peter, despite his failures, was loved by God and used by Him. The sermon also highlights the importance of maintaining holiness and not succumbing to former lusts. The preacher references Moses' loss of temper as an example of the vulnerability we face after experiencing seasons of God's presence.

David Wilkerson emphasizes that God uses people to refresh and edify one another, drawing from the prophet Malachi's message about the importance of mutual encouragement during challenging times. In a period of widespread ungodliness, God's people began to minister to each other, fostering a spirit of one-on-one support and comfort. Wilkerson parallels this with the present day, urging believers to engage in acts of kindness and encouragement, as these deeds are recorded by God and hold great value. He encourages individuals to reach out to those who are downcast, reminding them of the power they possess to bring healing and hope. The call to action is clear: be a source of refreshment to others, just as God intends.

J.R. Miller addresses the myriad questions that girls have, emphasizing the importance of individuality and the need for each girl to seek her own path rather than conforming to societal expectations. He highlights that true beauty and agreeableness come from the love of Christ in one's heart, which can transform even the most disagreeable dispositions. Miller encourages girls to cultivate a positive outlook and to find peace through obedience and trust in God, while also stressing the importance of treating others with love, even those who may be difficult to like. He concludes by reminding girls of their potential and the need for encouragement in their journeys.

J.R. Miller discusses the concept of sympathy and how asking someone about their feelings can sometimes lead to self-pity rather than healing. He illustrates this with examples of individuals who crave sympathy and recount their troubles, suggesting that true kindness may involve encouraging others to focus on hope and positivity instead. Miller emphasizes that the act of asking 'How are you feeling today?' can be burdensome and counterproductive, advocating for a more uplifting greeting like 'Good morning' instead. He argues that this approach not only saves time but also fosters a more positive interaction, aligning with the teachings of Jesus about focusing on the mission rather than personal woes.

K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the vital role of encouragement in our daily lives, urging us to spread love and kindness starting from our own homes and extending to everyone we encounter. He highlights that simple gestures, like a smile or a kind word, can significantly uplift those around us, countering our natural tendency towards self-centeredness. By encouraging others, we not only fulfill a Christian duty but also create a cycle of positivity that returns to us. Yohannan shares inspiring stories of individuals whose success was fueled by encouragement, reminding us that we all have the power to uplift others. Ultimately, he calls us to actively seek opportunities to encourage and support those in our lives, reflecting Christ's love and compassion.

J.R. Miller emphasizes the vital duty of encouragement in his sermon, highlighting that many people face hidden struggles and despair in their lives. He urges listeners to cultivate the habit of offering cheer and support, as discouraging words can have devastating effects on those already burdened by life's challenges. Miller warns against the tendency of leaders to focus on hardships rather than inspiring hope, advocating for a more uplifting approach in all interactions. He illustrates the transformative power of encouragement through various examples, stressing that a single word of cheer can change the course of someone's day or even life. Ultimately, he calls on everyone to be a source of light and hope, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive despite their struggles.

Shane Idleman emphasizes the necessity of encouraging oneself in the Lord, especially during challenging times following spiritual highs. He highlights that discouragement is a tactic of the enemy that can lead to spiritual stagnation and urges believers to seek strength from God, as exemplified by David in 1 Samuel 30. Idleman discusses the importance of worship, gratitude, and seeking God's will in times of distress, while also warning against the dangers of fatigue and disobedience. He encourages the congregation to recognize the spiritual battles they face and to actively combat discouragement by focusing on God's promises and maintaining a thankful heart.

Jim Cymbala delivers a powerful sermon titled 'When You Can't Go On,' emphasizing that even the greatest figures in the Bible, like Elijah, faced moments of despair and breakdown. He recounts Elijah's journey from triumph over the prophets of Baal to fleeing in fear from Jezebel, illustrating how even the strongest can feel overwhelmed. Cymbala encourages listeners to recognize their vulnerabilities and the importance of seeking God's presence and nourishment during tough times. He highlights that God provides strength and direction, even when we feel we cannot go on, reminding us that it's always too soon to quit. The sermon concludes with a call for prayer and support among believers, reinforcing the need for community in times of struggle.

George Fox emphasizes the importance of standing firm in faith and wearing the whole armor of God to withstand trials and tribulations. He encourages believers to maintain their public testimonies and support one another, especially during difficult times, reminding them to keep their focus on heavenly treasures rather than earthly concerns. Fox expresses his desire for all to remain steadfast and faithful to the truth, despite personal struggles and weaknesses. He urges Friends to visit and encourage each other, ensuring that no one falters in their faith. His heartfelt message is a call to unity and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Andrew Bonar writes a heartfelt letter to his niece Emily, encouraging her to embrace her time at school in Kelso and to seek knowledge and spiritual growth. He reflects on their family heritage and the joy it would bring their ancestors to see her thriving. Bonar emphasizes the importance of looking to Jesus for strength and healing, reminding her that every encounter with Him brings virtue and support. He also shares a book about the year's spiritual awakening, hoping it will inspire her. The letter is filled with love and encouragement from her uncle and family.

In this sermon, the speaker shares personal experiences and anecdotes to emphasize the importance of encouragement in the lives of believers. He talks about his charitable organization, Free Grace Ministries, and how a group of individuals visited seniors' homes to bring joy and companionship. The speaker also shares a story of facing criticism during a crusade and feeling alone, but finding encouragement from a fellow believer. He concludes by urging listeners to start a revolution of encouragement and highlights an Ikea advertisement that portrays the power of uplifting words in a relationship.

In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding ministry as a way to experience God's glory. He shares a story about a tired father who challenges his son to put together a torn-up picture of the globe. The son succeeds by focusing on the man's face in the picture, teaching the lesson that when we get our relationship with God right, everything else falls into place. The preacher then highlights the core message of the book of 2 Corinthians, which is about New Testament ministry and the contrast with false teachers. He encourages the congregation to commit their burdens and challenges to God and seek transformation from glory to glory.

A.W. Tozer challenges the approach of some preachers who, instead of encouraging believers to press on in their Christian journey, often undermine their faith by questioning their spiritual status or implying ignorance. He raises critical questions about the tactics used to provoke guilt or comparison among Christians, suggesting that such methods may distract from the true essence of faith and growth. Tozer emphasizes the importance of genuine encouragement and understanding in the Christian community, rather than creating division or doubt. His reflections call for a more compassionate and constructive approach to spiritual leadership.

K.P. Yohannan shares a heartfelt message about the need for encouragement, recounting a conversation with a once-optimistic Christian leader who expressed his struggles and vulnerability. He emphasizes that many people silently crave encouragement, often showing signs of despair without voicing their needs. Yohannan reassures listeners that they are not alone in their struggles, as Jesus understands their pain and has faced similar temptations. He encourages everyone to take courage, reminding them that no situation is beyond God's reach and that they are deeply valued by Him. Ultimately, there is hope and light even in the darkest valleys.

David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of encouraging oneself in the Lord, acknowledging that even the most faithful believers experience pain, confusion, and sorrow. He uses the example of David, a man after God's own heart, who faced deep emotional struggles yet found strength in God. Wilkerson reassures that feeling spiritually and emotionally bankrupt is common, but through faith and trust in God, one can receive supernatural strength and victory. He encourages believers to call upon the Lord for strength and to remember the promises found in Scripture, as God delights in our faith. Ultimately, the message is about finding resilience and hope in God's presence during difficult times.

Mike Bickle emphasizes the power of our testimony in helping others overcome the accusations of the devil. He explains that our testimony should not only reflect our personal experiences but also acknowledge what God is doing in the lives of others. By speaking truth and encouragement into the lives of those around us, we can help them resist the lies of the accuser and strengthen their faith. Bickle highlights the importance of daily encouragement and the responsibility we have to uplift those closest to us, fostering a culture of honor and support within our families and communities.

In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing when to speak and when to be silent, drawing from the wisdom of Proverbs. He also highlights the power of sharing the Word of God with others, whether through sending portions of Scripture or distributing free materials. The speaker encourages listeners to do good even when accused of ulterior motives and to remain honest and frank despite the vulnerability it may bring. He also reminds them to prioritize prayer and to be willing to visit and give their time to others, especially in a world that values privacy.

J.R. Miller emphasizes the vital role of encouragement in the Christian life, contrasting it with the detrimental effects of discouragement. He critiques the notion of a somber, silent spirituality, arguing that true Christian living is about spreading cheer and uplifting others. Miller illustrates the harm caused by discouragers, who sap the strength and hope of those around them, and calls for believers to actively encourage one another. He highlights the power of words to either uplift or dishearten, urging the church to be a community of encouragement rather than one of criticism. Ultimately, he advocates for a life filled with hope and support, reflecting the teachings of Jesus.

In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the story of David in 1 Samuel chapter 30. David and his men had returned to their camp to find that their wives had been stolen and their goods had been taken. David's men were so angry that they wanted to stone him. However, David sought strength and encouragement from the Lord. He inquired of the Lord if he should pursue the Amalekites who had taken their wives and goods, and the Lord assured him that he would recover everything. David and 400 of his men continued to pursue the Amalekites, while 200 of them were too weak to continue. Along the way, they found a young Egyptian servant who had been left behind by the Amalekites. They revived him and he led them to the Amalekite camp. David and his men attacked and recovered all that had been taken from them. The sermon concludes by highlighting the transition from the reign of Saul to the establishment of David's kingdom in 2 Samuel.

In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of having a dream while on vacation in Jamaica. He emphasizes that he rarely has dreams from the Lord and is not one to sensationalize his experiences. In the dream, he is walking down a street in Brooklyn when suddenly he feels a strong conviction to follow Jesus and commit his life to Him. The speaker then leads the audience in a prayer of salvation, urging them to accept Jesus as their Savior and commit to serving Him. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of believing in Jesus' return and the need for a personal relationship with Him.

A.B. Simpson delivers a powerful sermon titled 'Words for Discouraged Workers,' drawing from the prophetic messages of Zechariah to encourage those rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. He emphasizes God's presence and intercession through Jesus Christ, who prays for His people amidst their sorrow and challenges. Simpson highlights the visions of hope, divine protection against enemies, and the assurance that God will provide for their needs, regardless of their small numbers or feelings of unworthiness. He reassures the congregation that God’s strength is made perfect in their weakness and that their humble offerings will be transformed into crowns for Christ. Ultimately, the message is one of hope, encouragement, and the call to trust in God's unfailing promises.