Trials and Temptations
Trials and Temptations6
Building the House of God - Overcoming Sin in Trials
By Phil Beach Jr.261:18:04JAS 1:2Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of understanding trials as opportunities for spiritual growth and character development. He explains that during difficult times, believers are often tempted to sin, but it is crucial to recognize that these temptations stem from our own desires rather than from God. The sermon encourages listeners to seek God's wisdom and grace to endure trials, confess their sins, and maintain a pure heart. Ultimately, Beach Jr. calls for a deeper commitment to God's will and a focus on being about the Father's business, rather than succumbing to worldly desires.
Heaviness Through Manifold Temptations
By John Wesley01PE 1:6John Wesley addresses the heaviness experienced by believers through manifold temptations, emphasizing that such heaviness does not equate to darkness of soul. He explains that believers can endure heaviness while still possessing faith, peace, hope, and joy, as these elements coexist even in trials. Wesley outlines the causes of this heaviness, including physical ailments, poverty, and the loss of loved ones, and he highlights that these trials serve to strengthen faith and holiness. Ultimately, he encourages believers to view their heaviness as a means to grow closer to God and to prepare for eternal glory.
(Secrets of Victory) 7. You Cannot Be Tested Beyond Your Ability
By Zac Poonen02KI 6:15JOB 1:10ZEC 2:51CO 10:13PHP 2:8HEB 4:15HEB 5:7Zac Poonen emphasizes the assurance found in 1 Corinthians 10:13, which states that God will not allow us to be tested beyond our ability. He explains that while trials may seem unbearable, they are carefully controlled by God, who provides a way of escape through humility and obedience, as exemplified by Jesus. Poonen illustrates this with the story of Job, highlighting that God’s hedge of protection is always present, and our spiritual maturity determines the extent of our trials. He encourages believers to recognize that pride often exacerbates our struggles, and true victory comes from humbling ourselves before God. Ultimately, Poonen calls for a deeper understanding of our circumstances and the importance of relying on God's strength to endure and overcome.
Holiness: What It Is Not, and What It Is
By Samuel Logan Brengle0JOB 2:10PSA 34:19ISA 53:3ROM 11:161CO 10:122CO 12:9COL 4:12HEB 4:15JAS 1:21PE 1:16Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes that holiness is often misunderstood; it is not a constant state of joy, freedom from temptation, infirmities, or afflictions. Instead, holiness is characterized by a pure heart and a deep relationship with God, allowing for growth and development even amidst trials. He illustrates that even holy figures like Jesus and Paul faced temptations and suffering, yet their holiness was defined by their love, patience, and perseverance through difficulties. Brengle concludes that true holiness is a state of conformity to God's nature, achieved through faith and the work of the Holy Spirit, leading to a life of peace and joy despite life's challenges.
Fuel to Your Lusts, and Quenchers of Your Graces
By Thomas Brooks01PE 1:6Thomas Brooks emphasizes that severe providences and fiery trials are divinely designed to prevent sin and preserve the soul from spiritual decay. He illustrates how wealth can lead to significant temptations and spiritual lethargy, citing biblical figures like David and Solomon who fell into sin during times of abundance. Brooks encourages believers to recognize that the removal of worldly distractions is a mercy that helps maintain their spiritual health. He urges the faithful to seek sanctification through trials, aiming for the mortification of sins and a deeper communion with God. Ultimately, he asserts that being preserved from even the smallest sin is a greater blessing than worldly riches.
Think It Not Strange Concerning the Fiery Trial
By A.B. Simpson01PE 4:12A.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.