Sermon Notes

September 25, 2015

A Formula for Victory


Everything we face in this life, even the bad, is knitted with a purpose much bigger than you or I could ever see or understand in the present. Sometimes the only way we can get to God is directly through the trial that is staring us down. But let me encourage you, He will always meet you there.

Let’s be honest for a minute. Life can be hard and if we are not careful, we can get so immersed in our pain, bitterness and hurt that we can miss out on the deep purpose He has for us. Pain has a consuming characteristic. When you encounter it, it blinds you to see only that which has wounded you.

Through the years I have been in ministry, I have come to learn the seasons of trial and hardship have only served as catalysts to proclaim the Gospel further. It was through these tough times that the Lord’s anointing rested on me in an unprecedented way. That is the beautiful thing about pain. If we are intentional about clinging to Him through it, He promises to turn it around for our good and His glory!

Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by your name;
You are Mine.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,
Nor shall the flame scorch you.

For I am the Lord your God,
The Holy One of Israel, your Savior
(Isaiah 43:1-3 NKJV).

He never says if, but when. God knew we would all experience sorrow, grief and difficulties in this fallen world, but the pain has purpose. Let us not miss this!

Are you focusing on the negative? Will you make the decision today to release it to Him? Step into the freedom and fruitfulness He has for you! God can bring purpose out of the most perilous times, but you’ve got to shift your perspective to the positive.

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

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