Overcoming Doubt
Overcoming Doubt7
Matthew 14:22
By Chuck Smith0MAT 14:22Chuck Smith explores the story of Peter walking on water, emphasizing the importance of faith and the dangers of doubt. He illustrates how Peter's initial success in walking towards Jesus was overshadowed by his fear of the storm, leading him to sink. Smith encourages believers to call out to Jesus in times of crisis, highlighting that help is always near when we reach out in faith. He reminds us that focusing on our problems can lead to fear, while keeping our eyes on Jesus strengthens our faith. Ultimately, the sermon challenges us to trust in Jesus amidst life's storms and to recognize that doubt can hinder our walk with Him.
Chasing Away the Vultures
By David Wilkerson0GEN 15:9David Wilkerson emphasizes the significance of God's covenant with Abraham in Genesis 15, illustrating how, when Abraham made sacrifices, vultures descended upon them, symbolizing the attacks of Satan. He explains that just as Abraham chased away the vultures, believers must confront and dispel the doubts and fears instigated by the enemy, especially when they are pursuing God's promises. Wilkerson encourages Christians to measure their thoughts against the truth of God's Word, rejecting any feelings of unworthiness or insecurity that do not align with God's promises. He reassures that the sacrifices made for the Lord are honored and that believers have powerful weapons to combat spiritual attacks. Ultimately, the message is one of empowerment and assurance in the face of spiritual opposition.
Launch Out Into the Deep
By A.B. Simpson0ISA 43:18A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of decisively moving forward in our Christian lives despite uncertainties and challenges. He encourages believers to act boldly with the light they have, trusting that as they step into their present duties and obedience, many questions will be resolved. Simpson suggests that the distractions and doubts we face are often traps set by Satan to hinder our progress. By launching out into the deep, we can experience the vastness of God's mercy and fullness, leaving behind the limitations of our fears and hesitations.
Overcoming Seeds of Doubt
By David Wilkerson0LUK 3:19JHN 1:29David Wilkerson addresses the struggle of doubt through the story of John the Baptist, who, despite his profound faith and experiences, found himself imprisoned and questioning Jesus' role as the Messiah. John, once a powerful voice for God, faced a deep trial that led him to doubt the very promises he had proclaimed. Wilkerson emphasizes that the enemy seeks to plant seeds of doubt in our hearts, especially during times of waiting and trial, urging believers to remain patient and steadfast in their faith. He reminds us that trials can produce patience and completeness in our spiritual journey, encouraging us to trust in God's timing and promises.
Avoiding the Sin of Doubt
By David Wilkerson0PSA 73:1PSA 73:28ISA 41:10MAT 14:31ROM 8:282CO 5:7PHP 4:6HEB 11:1JAS 1:6David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of maintaining faith in God despite the trials and injustices we observe in the world, as illustrated by Asaph's struggle in Psalm 73. Asaph, a devoted worship leader, nearly succumbed to doubt when he witnessed the prosperity of the wicked while he faced hardships. Wilkerson encourages believers to guard their hearts against the sin of doubt, reminding them that God remains sovereign and faithful. He urges Christians to shift their focus from their struggles to the Lord, reinforcing that trust in God is essential for overcoming discouragement. Ultimately, like Asaph, we are called to declare our trust in the Lord and His works.
Doing, and Not Doubting
By J.R. Miller0PSA 34:4ISA 41:10MAT 17:20ROM 8:282CO 5:7GAL 6:9PHP 4:13HEB 11:1JAS 1:61PE 5:7J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of action over doubt in the Christian life, arguing that expressing fears and doubts can discourage others and weaken our own resolve. He encourages believers to focus on doing rather than doubting, as this aligns with God's will and strengthens both ourselves and those around us. Miller shares a poignant stanza that highlights the value of action, suggesting that our efforts, even if they don't yield immediate results, are recognized by God. He reminds us that burdens are part of divine discipline and that we should strive to uplift others with words of hope. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a proactive faith that seeks to overcome challenges through trust in God.
The Confession of Faith
By Zac Poonen0GEN 15:6GEN 17:5MAT 4:1ROM 10:9REV 12:11Zac Poonen emphasizes the significance of confessing our faith, highlighting that true belief involves agreeing with God's promises, as illustrated by Abram's faith in God's promise of numerous descendants. He explains that confessing God's Word is a powerful act of faith, allowing God to work in our lives, even when we do not see immediate results. Poonen encourages believers to use their testimony to overcome doubts and the accusations of Satan, just as Jesus did by quoting Scripture. The sermon underscores that our confession aligns us with God's truth and empowers us against the lies of the enemy.