Today’s message is :Finding Strength in the Lord: Staying Positive in Tough Times. Sermon number 400
Hello Friends,
In a world filled with trials and tribulations, it's easy to lose sight of the light when surrounded by darkness. But as believers, we are called to rise above the challenges and find solace in the unwavering presence of our Lord. Today, I want to talk to you about the power of staying positive and looking to the Lord when times are tough.
In the book of Isaiah, chapter 41, verse 10, we find these reassuring words: "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." What a comforting promise this is! Even in the midst of our deepest struggles, God assures us of His presence and His unfailing support.
One of the greatest challenges we face in difficult times is maintaining a positive outlook. It's natural to feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or even hopeless when adversity strikes. But as followers of Christ, we have a reason to remain hopeful. Our hope is not anchored in the circumstances of this world but in the unchanging character of our God.
When we shift our focus from our problems to the promises of God, we find strength beyond our own understanding. The psalmist declares in Psalm chapter 121: verses 1-2, "I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth." Our help comes from the Creator of the universe, the one who holds all things together.
But staying positive doesn't mean denying the reality of our struggles. It means choosing to trust in God's goodness and faithfulness despite our circumstances. It means reminding ourselves that God is greater than any obstacle we may face. As the apostle Paul writes in Romans chapter 8: verse 28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Even in our darkest moments, God is at work, weaving together a beautiful tapestry of redemption and restoration.
So how do we maintain a positive attitude in the midst of adversity? First and foremost, we must cultivate a deep and abiding relationship with God through prayer, worship, and the study of His Word. The more we immerse ourselves in His presence, the more our perspective shifts from despair to hope.
Secondly, we must surround ourselves with fellow believers who can encourage, support, and uplift us during difficult times. Ecclesiastes chapter 4: verse 9-10 reminds us, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up." Together, as the body of Christ, we can bear one another's burdens and share in each other's joys.
Finally, we must choose to focus on gratitude and praise, even in the midst of adversity. As the apostle Paul writes in Philippians chapter 4: verse 6-7, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." When we shift our focus from our problems to the blessings that surround us, we open our hearts to receive the peace that surpasses all understanding.
My dear brothers and sisters, let us remember that our God is faithful, and His promises are true. Even in the darkest of times, He is our rock, our fortress, and our deliverer. May we cling to Him with unwavering faith, knowing that He is always with us, guiding us, sustaining us, and filling us with hope.
May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace. Amen.
Let us turn to Matthew 6:5-15 for the Lord’s Prayer
And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the churches and on the street corners that they may be seen by all. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.
And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.
Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. In this manner, therefore, pray:
Our Father who art in Heaven hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, they will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread and forgive our debts as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen
“For if you forgive people of their sins, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive people their sins, neither will your Father forgive your sins.
For Those Who Want To Believe, You Can Ask Jesus To Come Into Your Life, Let Us Pray:
Jesus, I come to you today to admit that I am a sinner. I admit that I cannot live without you and I need a savior. I turn from my sins and ask that you forgive me today, right here, right now, and create in me a clean heart. Give me your new life that is abundant and free. I accept your free gift of salvation. I accept your mercy and grace. Come and live within me, change my life, and lead me all of the rest of my days. I give my life to you. Thank you for loving me. Help me to learn to love you in return. In your name I pray, amen.
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