Overcoming Discouragement
Overcoming Discouragement7
Discouraged at Our Own Hearts
By David Wilkerson0PSA 34:10ISA 41:10LUK 15:17ROM 8:372CO 12:9EPH 3:17PHP 4:19HEB 4:16HEB 12:21JN 4:18David Wilkerson addresses the issue of discouragement stemming from our own hearts, urging believers to shift their focus from weaknesses and past failures to the abundant love and provision of God in Christ. He emphasizes that God knows our shortcomings yet still loves us, encouraging us to approach the throne of grace with confidence to receive mercy and peace. Wilkerson reminds us that true victory comes not from our efforts but from being rooted in the revelation of God's love, which assures us that we have everything we need. He calls on the Holy Spirit to help us grasp this truth, promising that embracing it will lead to a transformative experience in our lives.
God Will Come Through for You
By Phil Beach Jr.3550:50ISA 36:1Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes that God will come through for us, even in the face of discouragement and trials, as illustrated by the story of King Hezekiah and the Assyrian siege. He encourages believers to trust in God's promises and not to be swayed by the lies of the enemy, who seeks to instill doubt and fear. By humbling ourselves and calling upon God, we can find strength and assurance that He will deliver us from our struggles. The sermon highlights the importance of maintaining faith and hope in God's ability to intervene and protect us for His name's sake.
Believing a Lie
By David Wilkerson01KI 19:4PSA 55:6ISA 49:41CO 15:58GAL 4:11David Wilkerson addresses the feelings of discouragement that arise from unmet expectations and the lies of the enemy that suggest one's life has been ineffective. He draws parallels with biblical figures like Elijah, David, and Paul, who also experienced despair over their perceived failures in their divine callings. Wilkerson encourages believers to reject these lies and to find strength in the Holy Spirit, reminding them that their labor for the Lord is not in vain. He emphasizes the importance of steadfastness and faith in God's promises, urging listeners to trust that their efforts will be rewarded. Ultimately, he reassures that God understands their struggles and is with them in their journey.
The Plans of the Enemy
By K.P. Yohannan0HEB 12:1K.P. Yohannan emphasizes that while God can turn the enemy's plans for our good, we must recognize these as spiritual attacks and be prepared to stand firm. He encourages believers to focus on the Lord during times of struggle, as looking to Jesus helps us overcome discouragement. By shifting our gaze from the horizontal (people's opinions) to the vertical (God's promises), we find strength and encouragement. Our difficulties can lead us to identify with Christ's sufferings, allowing His power to shine through our weaknesses. Ultimately, our struggles can become opportunities for growth and deeper faith.
The Ruminations of Being Consigned to "Second Best"
By K.P. Yohannan0PSA 32:3K.P. Yohannan addresses the feelings of despair and hopelessness that arise when we face the consequences of our sins, reflecting on how we often feel consigned to 'second best' after making poor choices. He draws parallels to biblical figures like Adam and Eve, Samson, and John Mark, who experienced similar feelings of loss and regret. Yohannan emphasizes that the devil exploits these moments of failure, aiming to discourage us and make us feel hopeless, thus preventing us from seeking redemption and healing. He reminds us that despite our failures, we must resist the enemy's lies and remember that God's grace is always available to restore us. The sermon encourages listeners to confront their failures with faith rather than despair.
Drawing Near or Drawing Back?
By David Guzik7981:03:46HEB 10:4David Guzik emphasizes the choice between drawing near to God or drawing back, as presented in Hebrews chapter 10. He addresses the discouragement faced by early Christians, urging them to embrace the abundant life found in Jesus rather than retreating to a middle ground. Guzik explains that the Old Covenant's sacrifices were merely shadows of the perfect sacrifice of Christ, which provides complete forgiveness and access to God. He encourages believers to draw near with boldness, reminding them that their relationship with Jesus is the key to overcoming discouragement. Ultimately, Guzik calls for a commitment to faith and community, reinforcing that drawing back is not an option for those who believe in Christ.
Dangers in the Way #5 "Dangers of Arrogance and Defeat"
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 18:2PRO 24:16ISA 41:10MAT 23:12ROM 8:382CO 12:9PHP 4:13HEB 12:1JAS 4:61PE 5:5A.W. Tozer addresses the dangers of arrogance and defeat in the Christian life, emphasizing that success can lead to pride and a false sense of superiority, while failure can result in discouragement and defeatism. He warns that both states can hinder spiritual growth and relationship with God, urging believers to remain humble and reliant on God's grace. Tozer illustrates his points with biblical examples, including the triumphs and failures of Israel, and the humility of Jesus. He encourages Christians to avoid making decisions during times of discouragement and to remember God's unwavering love and promises, regardless of their circumstances. Ultimately, Tozer reminds us that our worth is not tied to success or failure, but to our relationship with God.