read more, Scripture: Discouragement comes most often when you do right things but experience poor results. The Greek word for unsettled actually means to wag the tail. It has the idea of being shaken by circumstances so that you fall away from the right path in life. WebThere are seasons and times of uncertainty in our lives. When hard times come, we can know that God is at work in our trials for our benefit and for his glory. At the moment my friend is currently in treatment for his cancer. In Hard Times, God plots for your Victory : Biblical response to COVID 19 Located minutes from downtown Pleasanton, in the San Francisco Bay Area, East Bay. We often see the full flowering of this process in the life of an older saint of God. One of the major themes in the book of Philippians is joy. Forgiveness or anger. When life gets too difficult to bear, your inner strength can help you fight your toughest battles. But given the instability of our world, a question comes to mind: Where can you go where you arent in harms way? read more, Scripture: This and other sermons brought to you by Faith Chapel, an Assemblies of God church in Pleasanton, CA. These are difficult days in many parts of the world. I love the enthusiasm of the younger generation for the Word of God. 1 Kings 19:3-18, Psalm 22: Are you burdened by feeling alone? 8 Inspiring Messages For The Christian Trying To Stay Strong In Faith. 1 Corinthians 10:13, Romans 8:28, Denomination: It is one thing to know the truth. When times are good, it can feel easier. read more, Scripture: Thats the true Christian position. God is able to do what he promised. Free Sermons and Sermon Outlines for Preaching : The Finish Line - Running The Race Of Life, In Times Like These (A Message Of Encouragement), If The Preacher Is Dead, The Sermon Will Be Dead, Chasing The Dream, Preaching Greatness, And Knowing Your Audience. Just as practically no one will tell you to go away if you ask them how you can pray for them, there is a tremendous openness to discussions with others of matters of life and faith when you have just told them you have cancer. The enemy must flee and death is swallowed up in victory. This message teaches us what to do when we find ourselves in difficult situations. Introduction. Even in tragic circumstances, there will be light and grace. The Coffin and the Christmas Tree Though it is the earliest of all the New Testament books (written around AD 38-44), it reads like a letter for the 21st-century. There is Jesus Power in the hard times You will know beyond a doubt, Jesus is present in your situation and that you are not alone no matter how dark the valley or how lonely you may feel. Failureyes. These are difficult days in which we live. Paul had set the example of joyfulness in difficult times. They would feel scared about being left alone. During these troubling times let us turn to the promises of God, read and study them, ponder upon them and apply their wisdom to our lives. So, what do you do then? Encouragement A Mighty Fortress Is Our God So rejoice and be glad and take comfort; you have no reason to fear. Hymns to Sing in Troubled Times This is cut-to-the-chase, heres-the-bottom-line talk from a man who knew his readers needed encouragement to stand strong in hard times. They come when they come, and we have to cope as best we can. Give me relief from my distress; be merciful to me and hear my prayer. Thanks for your interest! But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Life can be going along smoothly for a season. Many years ago I learned an important truth from my friend Jim Warren. read more, Scripture: We are all in harms way. Now, it is not because we disagree with anything that it says, its just that the book is so short that when you blink as you turn the pages in your Bible you miss it. WebLikewise, in order for us to be strong in difficult times, we must stand firm in Gods power and through his word. In 1 Thessalonians 3:1-8 Paul writes to some new believers who suddenly found themselves in great difficulty. Date: 2/26/17 This helps you accept that God is bigger than you could ever understand. Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds (v. 1). Look up and call out to Jesus. The shepherd is always looking to protect his sheep. I. Does anyone doubt it? Encouragement in Difficult Times | Everyday Answers - Joyce Meyer Then you find out, for better or for worse. Jesus reduced the ten commandments down to just two. In your waking up. read more, Scripture: A time it appears you don't know what you are doing. Sermon Winning in Difficult Situations But as xtians we have antidotes against har, Surviving Hard times A Acts 20:22-31. No one, not a single person in this story expects Peter to be released. It was not to be. If you trust someone, you feel comfortable being honest with them about anything. Your friends and family are enjoyable. I would submit to you that the answer is no! I want to begin this message by giving you some common contemporary types of difficult people you may encounter. God is present and is making Himself known. Your goals, finances, health and outlook seem bright. Remember Gods Love Dont be deceived, my beloved brothers (v. 16). An issue has occurred. Note two key words in the last phrase. We need to remember that trials are not entirely negative. Here is part of what my friend wrote as he looked back on the upheaval: Now that I am on the other side of those two years, I can see quite clearly what the Lord has had in mind, and I rejoice in it and praise him for the time in the cruciblehow it has sharpened me, further deepened my faith in him and love for him, and multiplied my opportunities to serve him. You may feel alone. Psalm 62:1-12, Denomination: A student has no time to complain because he is busy making the best of his situation. We rejoiced. read more, Scripture: Hell lead, protect, and guide you. It isnt natural to find joy in hardship. We should rejoice. Haggai 2:1-15: Want to be closer to God? Colossians 2:6-8: Do you know how to avoid deception stay connected securely to Christ? Often we focus intently on the details of our difficulties as if the difficulty itself were the most important thing in the world. "Equipping and encouraging people to keep believing in Jesus", Copyright 2020 Keep Believing Ministries. Paul was a follower of Jesus and a leader in the early church. I missed the Childrens No accidents! Many of us want to trust God. You get it in the hard times. To be sure, there are many gray-haired fools (and there are many wise and godly young people), but Solomon means that if you have walked with the Lord, you will be filled with wisdom in your old age. The word face has the idea of falling or stumbling over a problem. One day we wake up to find out that were being sued by a former colleague. Joy grows best in the deep soil of the sovereignty of God. He believed, but it was a difficult thing to believe. As I have pondered the matter, and considered my own difficulties with this concept, the thought occurs that counting it all joy when troubles come is not a natural response. Matthew 22:15-22, Denomination: A woman sat in my office and told me a very sad story. read more, Scripture: Job 5:7 reminds us that man is born for trouble as surely as the sparks fly upward. I see no way to deny that statement. You never know what you believe until hard times come. The word testing refers to the process by which gold ore was purified. This message tells us how to avoid distractions. Thanks When you do that, a powerful conclusion emerges: These great trials give me great hope that God means a great benefit to me. But Timothy has just now come to us from you and has brought good news about your faith and love. I was afraid that in some way the tempter might have tempted you and our efforts might have been useless (v. 5). Hebrews 11:1-16, Denomination: Perhaps were sick and feel as if well never get better again. You seek to live a godly life, but you suffer one health problem after another, while you know many who abuse their bodies with a life of dissipation and are never sick for a day. First, he tempts us to doubt Gods goodness. Then she walked out of my office. Find rest in Jehovah-Rohi: There's power in the name! Must you become a better person so that God will accept you? Then I challenged her to become a woman of truth because the truth will set her free. We believe so much in the sovereignty of God that when hard times come, we know that God is at work for our good and his glory. WE have seen some athletes who have figuratively blown up locker Hope and Encouragement. What about joy? To apprehend Gods sovereignty working in that love is we must say it the last and highest victory of the faith that overcomes the world. I sure hope attendance at your church was better than my church. A) I read about a man that was sitting at home one evening when the doorbell rang! I can think of three obvious answers to that question. We need you. Your job is satisfying. United Methodist. All things do not work for the good for all people. Proverbs 20:29 puts it this way: The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old, and Proverbs 16:31 adds this insight, Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained by living a godly life (NLT). Christ is the answer for life's difficult questions. In Him, you can have comfort and peace, and encouragement. If we need any of the nine-fold fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), it will be produced in us. Maybe its about starting over and creating something new. To say that is to say nothing more than the words of Romans 8:28. It also frees you from the unrealistic scenarios that you run to in worry. He is always faithful. Heres a working definition: Joy is deep satisfaction that comes from knowing that God is in control even when my circumstances seem to be out of control. You wont do this perfectly, but God is kind and patient with you while you learn to trust Him. Strategies From Genesis Be honest. read more, Scripture: Develop your leadership skills and learn how to launch a ministry wherever you are. Dont let your emotions rule your life; bring them to God so He can help you address them. Here are seven practical ways to trust God in your everyday life: Scripture, or the Bible, is Gods Word. 52-week preaching calendar to help you plan your sermons, Customizable sermon manuscripts for verse-by-verse preaching, Preach with creativity and impact throughout the year, Help your church understand God's plan in pain, Call your people to experience a higher freedom, Proclaim the gospel to the ends of the earth. Im glad to invest in them because the future belongs to the young. Learn the basics of what Christians believe. Here is how we live with joy in the hard things. Gen 35: 15 -20 Luke 18:26-27, Genesis 18:9-14. Paul reminded his friend that partnership is important and helps us have a greater understanding of God and His plan. One day you are announcing a new book; a few days later you are fighting for your life. A victim begs God to remove the problems of life so that he might be happy. Learn how you can know God personally. Read about individuals who have been transformed by faith. Know that you are not alone even though things may seem dark and overwhelming right now, and you may feel unsure of whats coming next. Jesus Himself felt overwhelmed by what was before Him, and He went straight to His Father. Help others in their faith journey through discipleship and mentoring. Romans 16:12.Greet the beloved Persis, who has worked hard in the Lord. Gods uses our trials to produce perseverance. The Greek word is sometimes translated as endurance or steadfastness or patience. In the book of Revelation, this word describes the faith of those brave saints who would not take the Mark of the Beast (Revelation 14:12). 3:12). When hard times come, be a student, not a victim. Over 20 years have passed since that day, and I still regard that simple sentence as one of the most profound things I have ever heard. Truthfully, its probably a choice well have to make again and again and again. What does it do? This message will help you learn how to have true peace and get practical instructions of who you are and how to live. He will sustain you and grow your faith in the waiting. Knowing that God is for you will strengthen your trust in Him during times of hardship and the unknown. Or all three. How many times have we heard the first part of the text quoted? You do not have to share struggles with everyone, but find those people who will encourage you and share the truth with you not just tell you what you want to hear. You may have heard Psalm 23 many times, but I want to focus on one verse: Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me (Psalm 23:4, NIV). How comforting it is to know that the God of the universe is also paying attention to you. And those who are following ever so close to him. Daniel Speaks to Us Today Series Various Scriptures When you find yourself in a valley or some dark place, such as a sickness or feeling depressed, a spiritual attack or a loss of some kind, its not the place you find yourself in that is important so much as the one who is with you. When I was a high school kid, one of the sports I competed in was Track and Field. Encouragement from Gods Word for Difficult Times The Spirit comforts and reminds you of the truth. He never leaves. Probably never heard of Patricia Christy, but she is a woman who found out the hard way that you cant run away from the problems of life. This message reminds us that were never alone offers advice for what to focus on and how to confront Satan. If we can make the choice to view life that way, then we can make the following statements about our struggles and our trials: 1) This is sent from the Lord. Have great dreams and dare to live them. Thank God in the Midst of Trials and Even Persecution We draw back from difficulties, yet not one of us is exempt from some kind of trouble. And to do it well have to take the long view of life, to understand that what we see is not the final chapter of the story. When we obey line upon line and precept upon precept, we will Advent 2022, week 3: Do you feel robbed of joy? God is present amid the bad times as well as the good. Introduction: Do you have any idea what Ive just been through? It does sound rather idealistic, if not downright impossible. Presbyterian/Reformed. It is not pretending that everything is OK when it isnt. God does not intend to destroy us by the trials he allows to come our way. Genesis 18:14 poses an important question "Is there anything too hard for the Lord?" I have a friend who within the space of two years lost his job of 30 years, found a new job that required him to relocate, and then was diagnosed with cancer. We have a great God who loves us more than we know. Advent 2022, week 2: During this series, we are looking at how hope, peace, joy and love are at the heart of Christmas. The Psalmist David gives us some good instructions on how to handle hard times when they come. Every word of this verse is crucial. Exodus 16:13-14 A rod is a sign of power and strength to defend against attacks. You need only to look. Yet storms often come to believers to make them able to stand firm, rather than to blow them away (cf. No need to worry because the Lord is with you. You are not facing these difficult times alone. WebThank God for those who touch your life. Lewis, a renowned Christian author By Greg Johnson The first statement reflects a high view of Gods sovereignty. Copyright 2003-2023 | Outreach, Inc., All rights reserved. Still, God answers the prayer. Learn the prescription for joy and success. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything (v. 4). Many Christian writers and counselors will give you a specific course of action to use on each type of difficult person. John 17:20-26: Are you dealing with a dispute, conflict, or falling-out? spiritual health, strength, faith, difficult situations, courage, mature christian, obedience, trials, - Series: Lesson's From Revelation's Seven Churches, integrity, holy spirit, victory, encouragement, hope, fear, stress, promises, spiritual health, strength, faith, difficult situations, courage, mature christian, obedience, trials, - Series: Lesson's From Revelation's Seven Churches, integrity, holy spirit, good & evil, How to Avoid Spiritual Distractions Consider Your Ways, part 1, Cling To Jesus Always, Even in Times of Trouble, A Song of Single-Mindedness: How to Have a Blessed Life, How to Live with The Peace of God in Your Heart (continued) Live in Christ, part 6, How to Live with The Peace of God in Your Heart Live in Christ, part 5, How to Live Rooted in The Lord Live in Christ, part 3, How to Live Worthy of The Lord Live in Christ, part 2, Cultivating Your Heart: Finding Abundance Living an Abundant Life, part 1, With You in The Battle: Victory Brings Glory to God 5 Smooth Stones, part 4, How to Live in Christ in a Fallen World - Live in Christ, part 1, Jesus Is at The Heart of Christmas The Heart of Christmas, part 5, Love Is at The Heart of Christmas The Heart of Christmas, part 4, True Joy Is at The Heart of Christmas The Heart of Christmas, part 3, Peace Is at The Heart of Christmas The Heart of Christmas, part 2, Hope Begins with Christmas The Heart of Christmas, part 1, What voice are you focused on? It's anything that people serve, love, desire, trust, fear, and worship that isn't God. Sermons about Hard Times - SermonCentral.com When you cannot see a resolution? Nothing can separate you from Gods forgiving, healing love. One of the great assets we had was in the 100 yard dash, we had the kid that was the fastest kid in the whole league. Opt out at any time. Need a little pick-me-up? Someone has counted over 50 commands in these five chapters. Faith or fear. In many parts of the world it is dangerous even to be a I am talking today of working hard for the Lord! As I am making notes to share with you, I received a call from a dear friend and it was a call of rejoicing even as someone we both know is walking through a valley. Colossians 3:17-25: Whats the key to true peace? Not a problem in the world, not a care or a concern. This isnt like Paul in Romans with his intricate theological arguments. So He shared this with them to give them comfort. Look to Jesus and you will find the strength you need. There Is Nothing Too Hard For The Lord Instead learn the principles that will make you harder than your hard time. Psalm 71 for When You Feel Like Everyone Is Against You. All these things lead to the ultimate act of desperation where we give up our faith in God altogether. From canceling worship services and holding our Sunday gatherings online, to not When no one seems to care about you, self-love can make you stronger. Most of the time we will carry those unfilled blanks with us all the way to heaven. The following Tuesday he announced that he has been diagnosed with advanced stomach cancer and the prognosis is grim. FAS: What is the type of religion that would bring the most happiness to the individual who practices that religion? Years later Elisabeth married Addison Leitch, former president of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. How does a Christian respond when hard times come? WebFree Access to Sermons on Revelation End Times, Church Sermons, Illustrations on Revelation End Times, and Preaching Slides on Revelation End Times. No matter who we are or where we live, trouble is just a phone call away. Reflecting Jesus together for the good of the city. Thank you! Daivd shows us how to deal with difficult people as we see how he deals with Saul. A student focuses on helping others so that he has no time to feel sorry for himself. Pope Francis: World War III Is Already Here.. To us, joy means the absence of all pain. James offers what appears to be a strange piece of advice: Consider it pure joy or Count it all joy (KJV). According to Mark 9, a man brought his son to Jesus for healing from being possessed by a demon. Thanks for your interest! Philippians 1:3-7: Want more joy in your life? By not running away from the trials that come your way. When he has tried me, I will come forth as gold (Job 23:10). Trusting in Him means believing what He says about Himself, about the world and about you is true. Allow the word of God to light your path and the Holy Spirit to be a very present help. In the face of those difficulties, God shares His will for you and how you should respond to them. God is much more reliable than even your most trustworthy friend. Let the light of the Gospel shine in your heart. The Final Judgment Matthew 25: 31-46 25:40 Intro: People, by nature, are inquisitive. So when we could stand it no longer, we thought it best to be left by ourselves in Athens. There is a process involved in our trials that leads to a product. God is Omnipresent, which means that He is everywhere Sermons: TRUSTING GOD IN DIFFICULT TIMES read more, Scripture: Gods Encouragement in Tough Times The car hit a massive pothole and suddenly the happy journey is over. He is present in your situation. You show up to practice every day, giving it your all, but you lose every game. Haggai 1:1-15: Distracted? Many of them are unbelievers who wonder if Christ is real. Get seven steps to put these into practice. To have one husband murdered and another one disintegrate body, soul and spirit through cancer, is not what you would call a proof of the love of God. Sermons The rod is used to protect and drive the enemy away. A student asks, How much of this did I bring on myself?, A victim looks at everyone else and cries out, Life isnt fair. A student looks at life and says, What happened to me could have happened to anyone.. What happened to her can happen to any of us if we respond wrongly to hard times. The great danger is that we will try to short-circuit the process by running away from our problems. Get the answers to frequently asked questions on Christian beliefs and practices. Thanks to all of you for your prayers while my wife and I were away in Jamaica. We live in a madcap world that work the whole night and sleep the whole day with no time for self When we read this epistle, we get a glimpse of Christianity in its earliest form. Go to How Do I Hear Gods Voice? to learn more about how to follow the Spirits leading. He believes that his gods are trying to tell him something about his powerful These were tough consequences, for sure. But if you shift your focus to God, then you can find joy even in the worst moments of life. James 1:2 reminds us to Count it all joy when you encounter various trials. Rest assured, God is on your side and you have nothing to fear. They can pray for and support you. Church Of God. (Cited by James Montgomery Boice in his Romans series.). This message is a reminder that God is always working in your life. God is bigger than your circumstances. He is in all of it. When you trust, you go to God and His word when life is hard. So, when it comes to trusting God, that means believing in His reliability, His Word, His ability and His strength. Today well learn about the remarkable offer of peace: Who is it for? In the book of Isaiah, God responds to the Israelites who thought that God had turned away from them. Think of one of the hardest times in your life; what question would you like answered? I personally have much more confidence in someone who expects trouble and prepares for it than in someone who goes through life singing Everythings Coming Up Roses. The truth is, every rose has its thorns, and the sooner we understand that the happier we will be. Someone who performs with intense concentration and focus He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow and therefore is worthy of your trust. Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, He is making a way for you. But perpetual victimhood dooms you to a life of self-centered misery because you learn nothing from your trials. Because his death happened right before Christmas it was the first time that I had ever missed any events of my churchs Christmas season.

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