Obstacles
In the Bible, obstacles often represent challenges or barriers that impede one's spiritual journey or relationship with God. These can be physical, emotional, or spiritual hindrances that test a person's faith and perseverance. For instance, the Israelites faced significant obstacles during their exodus from Egypt, including the Red Sea and the wilderness, which served as tests of their faith and reliance on God (Exodus 14:10-31; Numbers 14:1-4). The narrative illustrates that while obstacles may seem insurmountable, they can also become opportunities for divine intervention and growth in faith.Moreover, Jesus discussed the notion of obstacles in the context of discipleship, emphasizing the need to overcome them to follow Him fully. In Matthew 16:24, He instructs, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." This highlights that the path of faith is often fraught with difficulties, yet overcoming these hurdles is crucial for spiritual maturity. The Apostle Paul also reflects on this in Philippians 3:13-14, where he speaks of pressing on toward the goal despite past challenges, demonstrating that obstacles can lead to a deeper reliance on God and a clearer vision of one's purpose.
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The Devil's Nightmare
By Carter Conlon2.8K56:08MAT 21:19MRK 9:17GAL 3:7In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of Moses and the Israelites in Egypt as a metaphor for the spiritual battle between God and the devil. Despite Moses feeling inadequate and unqualified, God chose him to lead the people out of captivity and into a promised land. The speaker emphasizes that the devil has historically enslaved nations, churches, and individuals, using taskmasters to keep them busy and distracted. However, through faith in Christ, believers are called to be a free and changing people, walking in the power of God and bringing others into His rest and promise. The speaker encourages listeners to recognize the spiritual warfare they may face and to stand firm in the truth of God's promises, knowing that through surrender to Him, there is no limit to what God can do through a believer.
Obstacles to Jesus and His Mission
By Jim Cymbala4.9K51:22MRK 9:30MRK 10:32In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of serving and giving in fulfilling God's mission for our lives. He highlights that Jesus came to serve and give his life, not to be served. The preacher encourages believers to actively serve others and give of their time, money, and prayers. He emphasizes that God will use our acts of service and giving to accomplish something tremendous and that at the end of our lives, we will hear the words "well done, my good and faithful servant." The preacher also addresses the misconception that God alone is responsible for fulfilling his mission, stating that while God is indeed the ultimate source of power, believers have a role to play in obedience and action.