Peter Marshall contrasts two maritime disasters to illustrate the evolution of faith in society. He reflects on the survivors of the Athenia, who sang lighthearted songs in the face of danger, compared to the Titanic's orchestra, which played 'Nearer, My God, to Thee' as they faced their fate. This shift in attitude highlights a decline in deep faith and resilience over time. Marshall emphasizes the importance of being both a realist and an idealist, using the metaphor of an oyster that transforms pain into beauty. He encourages listeners to rely on the Spirit of God for strength and transformation in difficult times.

Richard Wurmbrand emphasizes the unwavering faith in Jesus, regardless of circumstances, asserting that even if Jesus were dead, He remains a savior. He discusses the importance of certainty in faith, likening it to mathematical truths that remain unchanged regardless of personal trials. Wurmbrand shares his experiences in solitary confinement, highlighting the necessity of spiritual exercises and the power of prayer, even in the darkest times. He encourages believers to remember past blessings and to maintain a joyful spirit, even amidst persecution. The underground church, he explains, has existed since biblical times, and believers must continue their mission despite oppressive authorities.

Neil Fraser reflects on Psalm 73, emphasizing the struggles of faith when witnessing the prosperity of the wicked compared to the suffering of the righteous. He highlights Asaph's journey from confusion to clarity, which came when he entered the sanctuary of God, leading him to understand the ultimate fate of the wicked and the eternal security of the faithful. Fraser encourages believers to view their present afflictions in light of eternity, reminding them that God's justice and love transcend current circumstances. He stresses the importance of maintaining faith and perspective, urging the congregation to focus on the 'afterwards' of their faith journey.

Corrie Ten Boom shares her profound experiences of faith during her imprisonment, emphasizing that it was not her wavering faith but Jesus who carried her through the darkest times. She passionately speaks about the call to be ambassadors for Christ, urging young people to embrace their role in spreading the gospel and saving souls. Corrie recounts her experiences of saving lives during the war and highlights the importance of loving one's enemies, showcasing the transformative power of forgiveness through Christ. She encourages her audience to surrender their lives to God, be filled with the Holy Spirit, and actively participate in the mission of reconciliation. Ultimately, she reminds them that every believer is called to be a light in the world, regardless of the challenges they may face.

Joy Dawson emphasizes the greatness of God, sharing her personal experiences that affirm God's supremacy over all aspects of life, including our understanding, problems, and even our successes. She encourages believers to recognize that God is always greater than any circumstance, urging them to live in faith and expect remarkable outcomes in their daily lives. Dawson highlights the importance of intimate friendship with God, asserting that knowing Him deeply transforms our understanding and experience of life. She challenges the congregation to believe in God's greatness and to actively seek His presence in every situation, promising that such faith will lead to extraordinary testimonies. Ultimately, she calls for a revolution in how we perceive and interact with God, emphasizing that His greatness is limitless and ever-present.

Mike Bickle emphasizes Jesus' authority over nature, demons, and death, highlighting the public rejection He faced from religious leaders and even His own family. Despite this rejection, Jesus performs a series of miracles that reveal His true identity and power, demonstrating that He is more than a prophet and operates in the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Bickle draws parallels between Jesus' experiences and the challenges the end-time church will face, encouraging believers to trust in Jesus' promises and power amidst opposition. The sermon culminates in a call for healing and deliverance, affirming that Jesus is the source of hope and restoration.

Corrie Ten Boom emphasizes the importance of looking unto Jesus as the source of strength and hope, sharing her experiences during World War II and the transformative power of faith. She encourages believers to focus on Christ rather than their circumstances, fears, or failures, reminding them that Jesus is the author and finisher of their faith. Corrie illustrates how looking to Jesus can bring peace and purpose, even in the darkest times, and calls for a life of surrender to God's will. She highlights the joy of forgiveness and the necessity of walking in the light, urging everyone to reflect the love of Christ in a troubled world.

Mike Bickle emphasizes that the story of David and Goliath transcends a mere children's tale, presenting profound truths about confronting the giants in our lives. He illustrates how David's courage and faith in God enabled him to face overwhelming odds, symbolizing the inner and external battles we all face against forces that resist God's will. Bickle encourages believers to recognize the giants in their lives—be it personal struggles, societal issues, or spiritual opposition—and to approach them with the same boldness and faith that David exhibited. He highlights the importance of seeing beyond the giants to the power of God, urging listeners to invoke God's name in their battles and to cultivate a private life of faith that empowers them in public challenges.

John Bunyan emphasizes the importance of believing in God's love even during times of hardship and discipline, as expressed in Hebrews 12:6. He encourages believers to trust in God's providence and to remain steadfast in their faith, even when circumstances seem overwhelming. Bunyan illustrates that God's chastening is a sign of His love and that we should respond with reverence and commitment to Him. He calls for a posture of waiting upon God and being content with His will, likening our relationship with God to that of a loyal dog at its master's feet. Ultimately, Bunyan reassures that true faith involves loving and trusting God in all His appearances, regardless of our trials.

Vance Havner emphasizes the importance of not stumbling over Jesus, especially during times of doubt and depression, as exemplified by John the Baptist's struggles in prison. He highlights that even the strongest believers can experience moments of weakness and questioning, yet Jesus offers understanding and reassurance rather than condemnation. Havner encourages believers to trust in God's plan, even when it seems contrary to their expectations, and to embrace the 'Forgotten Beatitude' of remaining unoffended by Christ's ways. He reminds us that true faith is tested in adversity, and that we should focus on the blessings of belief without needing to see. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper trust in God's timing and purpose, assuring us that Christ is always on schedule.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the dual nature of hope in his sermon 'The Treasures of Hope,' describing it as both a precious gift and a potential treachery. He explains that hope is essential for enduring life's adversities, providing comfort and strength to those who believe in God's promises. Tozer illustrates how hope has sustained figures like Noah and Abraham, and how it remains a vital force in the lives of believers today. He encourages the congregation to nourish their hope through Scripture and to trust in the character of God, who is the ultimate source of hope. The sermon concludes with a reminder that true hope is grounded in faith and the love of God, enabling believers to face challenges with confidence.

G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the message of Haggai, addressing the perils faced by the people during adversity, including false contentment, discontent, expectation, and fear. He urges the faithful to take action, reminding them that God is with them and that they must build the temple despite their circumstances. Morgan highlights the importance of patience and obedience, asserting that blessings come from God as a gift rather than a result of human efforts. He warns against longing for the past and expecting immediate results, encouraging believers to focus on their duties and trust in God's timing. Ultimately, the call to 'Be strong and work' encapsulates the essence of Haggai's message.

A.B. Simpson emphasizes that after taking a step of faith, believers often expect a smooth journey, but instead, they may encounter trials and temptations. He explains that these challenges are a sign of God's presence and blessings, as the adversary will challenge what is real and valuable. Simpson encourages believers to anticipate difficulties and understand that temptation is not sin, but rather a tactic used by the enemy to create doubt. By recognizing this, believers can remain steadfast in their faith despite internal struggles. Ultimately, the sermon reassures that facing trials is part of the Christian experience and can lead to deeper reliance on God.

Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the importance of humility and reliance on God, urging believers to cast their cares upon Him as He genuinely cares for them. He illustrates this through the example of Jesus' submission at the River Jordan and His ultimate sacrifice on the Cross. Wigglesworth warns of the adversary's schemes and encourages vigilance and steadfastness in faith, reminding us that suffering is temporary and pales in comparison to the eternal glory that awaits us. He reassures that God is always near to deliver us from our struggles.

Chuck Smith preaches on Exodus 14:13, emphasizing the moment when the Israelites found themselves trapped between the Red Sea and the pursuing Egyptian army. Despite their fear and doubt in Moses' leadership, he reassures them to 'Fear not' and 'Stand still' to witness the salvation of the Lord. Smith highlights that God led them into this situation to demonstrate His power and teach them to trust Him, as He ultimately provided a miraculous escape through the sea. The sermon encourages believers to remember that God can make a way where there seems to be none and to hold onto faith in times of uncertainty.

Chuck Smith emphasizes the challenges faced by Ezra and the Israelites during their journey back to Jerusalem, highlighting the dangers of the long trek through hostile territory. Ezra's faith in God was put to the test as he had boasted about God's protection to the king, making it difficult to ask for military assistance. Instead, Ezra chose to rely on prayer and fasting, demonstrating the importance of aligning actions with faith. The sermon encourages believers to make their confessions of faith consistent with their actions and to trust in God's provision. Ultimately, Ezra's reliance on God led to a successful arrival in Jerusalem, showcasing the power of faith in challenging circumstances.

George Matheson shares his life story, detailing his birth in Glasgow, Scotland, and his struggle with deteriorating eyesight that led to near-total blindness. Despite this challenge, he excelled academically with the help of his sisters and graduated from the University of Edinburgh, eventually becoming a minister in the Church of Scotland. He served in Innealan for 18 years, where his remarkable memory allowed him to preach without his congregation realizing he was blind. Later, he became the pastor of St. Bernard’s Church in Edinburgh, dedicating his final years to literary pursuits, including the publication of 'Sacred Songs'. Matheson's life exemplifies resilience and dedication to faith despite personal challenges.

George Fox encourages believers to rejoice and sing, emphasizing that despite the darkness surrounding them, the Lord is actively working and truth is flourishing. He reminds them that Christ reigns over all challenges, urging them to remain steadfast in faith and valiant for the truth, even in difficult circumstances. Fox reassures that the seed of Christ brings life and peace, guiding them through the trials of life and the ways of the fallen world. He emphasizes the importance of following Christ, who ultimately has the victory over all adversities.

A.B. Simpson emphasizes that God often places us in seemingly impossible situations, just as He did with the Israelites at the Red Sea, to compel us to rely solely on Him for deliverance. He illustrates that while the enemy may confine us, God always provides a way out from above, transforming our challenges into opportunities for faith. Simpson encourages believers to embrace these moments as divine appointments that can lead to spiritual victory and transformation, urging them to bring their needs to God and trust in His faithfulness. He draws parallels to Jacob's encounter at Peniel, where struggle leads to triumph and a new identity in Christ.

In his journal from March 9 to August 30, 1736, Charles Wesley recounts his arrival on St. Simon's Island and the immediate revival of his spirit as he begins his ministry. He reflects on the challenges he faces, including opposition from parishioners and the harsh treatment from Mr. Oglethorpe, while emphasizing the importance of prayer and reliance on God amidst trials. Wesley's experiences highlight the transformative power of God's calling, the necessity of perseverance in faith, and the need for grace in communication with others. Throughout his struggles, he finds strength in scripture and the support of fellow believers, ultimately reaffirming his commitment to his ministry despite adversity.

A.B. Simpson emphasizes the transformative power of fire in the spiritual journey, illustrating how trials and sufferings refine our character and deepen our faith. He explains that while the initial experience of pain may seem unbearable and contrary to God's love, these challenges are essential for spiritual growth. Simpson encourages believers to embrace these fiery trials, as they lead to greater joy and victory through faith. He reassures that with faith, the flames of adversity will not harm us, referencing Isaiah 43:2 to highlight God's protective promise.

Brother Andrew shares a pivotal moment from 1957 when he attended a Communist youth conference in Poland, feeling overwhelmed by the strength of the Communist youth. Despite his initial feelings of despair, he found hope in a verse from Revelation that urged him to strengthen the remaining believers in Poland. This realization became a defining moment for him, igniting a commitment to support and empower the oppressed Christians behind the Iron Curtain. He recognized that even in the face of overwhelming odds, God could use him to make a difference. This experience shaped his mission to bring hope and strength to those in need.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the transformative power of hope, describing it as a divine force that turns adversity into something precious. He illustrates how the Apostle Paul maintained joy and confidence even in the face of death, knowing that present troubles lead to eternal glory. Tozer highlights that hope, rooted in God's character and the work of Jesus, is a gift that enables Christians to navigate life's storms with assurance. He describes hope as a 'living hope' that is based on reality rather than mere wishful thinking, providing a solid foundation for faith and joy.

C.H. Spurgeon addresses the question posed by Satan regarding Job's faithfulness, emphasizing that many today love God only for the blessings He provides. He warns against a superficial faith that falters in adversity, contrasting it with the true Christian's expectation of trials as part of their spiritual journey. Spurgeon encourages believers to embrace affliction, as it leads to spiritual growth and deeper reliance on God, ultimately preparing them for eternal rewards. He reminds the faithful that tribulations are not without purpose, as they refine and strengthen their character in Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to rejoice in hardships, recognizing them as opportunities to draw closer to God and long for heavenly treasures.

D.L. Moody shares a poignant story of little Johnny and his sister navigating a perilous tunnel, emphasizing the importance of clinging to the 'Rock of Ages' during life's storms. As the train roars by, the sister instructs Johnny to stay close to the rock, symbolizing the safety and shelter found in Christ amidst adversity. Moody encourages Christians to trust in the strength and protection of Jesus, who is always willing to save and provide refuge from life's challenges. The message underscores the assurance that, despite the trials we face, we can find safety and peace in our faith.