TOUGH TIMES = DARK TIMES
The great thing about living life…
As a believer in Christ is that even though it’s not ‘if’ difficulties will come… but rather ‘when’ – we don’t have to face anything in this life alone. Now that’s worth thinking about. Jesus said Himself that He would ‘never leave us nor forsake us.’ He also said that He would ‘order the steps of a good man.’ Not good because of anything we can do, but good because we belong to Him. See living your life in Christ gives you the security to know that if you’ve arrived in a tough situation, you can continue through to the other side without having to depend on your abilities to see you through. The God that hung the stars in the heavens is the one who’ll guide you IF you let Him.enough you know, if you haven’t experienced a tough time yet, get ready it’s right around the corner! Now, don’t get me wrong, I fully desire that you and I walk through life and experience victory just like God’s word says we can but… If He said we’d experience tribulation, well friend, we just need to be ready.
So what does God’s word say concerning this matter? Isaiah 50: 10-11 says this: “Who among you fears the LORD and obeys the word of his servant? Let him who walks in the dark, who has no light, trust in the name of the LORD and rely on his God.” Ha! That’s a great assurance. In fact, I think you’d agree, it doesn’t get any better than that. So let’s break it down step by step. What can I do when dark times come?
1. I can CONTINUE. He said “let him who walks in the dark…” I must resolve to continue on. Standing still will do exactly that… get you nowhere fast. No need to freeze up, be gripped by fear, or resort to hiding out from your problem or circumstance. It is always better to take a stand, and move forward no matter what. So, I keep on walking. I keep on praying. I keep on thanking God for His goodness. I keep on prasing Him as I allow Him to navigate my life through the best path for me. Trusting in Him alone to carry me to my destiny.
2. I can CONCENTRATE. Especially when I ‘have no light’ I must concentrate on Him. I don’t know if you ever had this to happen, but when I was a little boy we lived near my Grandfather’s farm in a rural area in south Georgia. The summer months were always hot and beautiful but there was the occasional thunderstorm that came through late in the afternoon just before dark. I cannot count the number of times that the lights went out. Amazingly enough all these years later, the thing that sticks out the most about those times is the fact that when the lights went out, my sister and I would be a little scared at first, and usually, my mom or dad would locate the candles and we would all gather and huddle in the basement den of our house around whatever light the candle provided. We had some of the best times when the lights went out! Crazy I know but think about it. We were forced to stop what we were doing, and spend a little quality time together. No noise, no worries, no distractions, and after mom and dad assured us, NO FEAR! So let me ask you, do you think maybe that God could allow a dark time in your life and mine, just so He could spend a little better quality time with us? Just sayin.
3. I can COUNT ON HIM. Notice friend that He also said ‘rely on his God.’ There is a lot of meaning to that word…(v) 10 – the word ‘rely’ is a Hebrew word that means to “lean on for support.” The root of that word is a word translated ‘staff.’ In Psalms 23: 4 – David says, “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me. This means that ‘they support me’ and ‘they encourage me.’
So what’s the sum? Well, don’t stop moving. Focus sharply on the object of our faith: Jesus Christ. And don’t forget to lean with all your weight, on Jesus. HE is always faithful and would never lead you into a dark place unless… it was to bring you out to something abundant.
In the words of Jesus: “Satan came for what to steal, kill, and destroy; but I have come that you might have life and have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)
Now that.. is good news!
HAPPY MEAL… GOD’S SMORGASBOARD
smörgåsbord [SMOHR-guhs-bohrd] – Swedish for “bread and butter table”!!
The Lord has been overcoming our excuses for years now. Starting with this bunch on the hillside. They had needs, He had the answer. Problem? HE wanted somebody to get involved with Him to get it to the people… What a ‘happy meal’ this was to that enormous crowd on the hillside. They couldn’t focus on their eternal needs until their temporal needs were met. Their bellies cried out so loudly that their spirits could not focus on their need. But Jesus met their physical need and included a prize inside far better. It was the bread of heaven, and a living water thru which they would never thirst again…and He supersized it for all who would accept it that day!
There are several types of hunger that we need to look at and they begin with the deepest and rise to the surface. First of all they had an:
Emotional Hunger! – They were hungry for acceptance, understanding, and unconditional love. They were looking for meaning in life and a purpose for their life. We see the very same hunger in our everyday life today… Self help books, reality TV shows, daily talkshows, motivational seminars and conferences are all best sellers by the thousands as people search for something real. They are ‘without’. Someone, (HELLO CHURCH! ANYBODY LISTENING?) HAS GOT to share the love of Jesus with them…He’s the one who can help them. An entire generation exists today who has not been truly loved. Their are countless thousands and even millions of people who wouldn’t know unconditional love if it ran them over in the middle of the hallway in their own home. They were raised in a home with something less than acceptance and unconditional love, and no wonder they don’t know how to love or be loved. They’ve never seen it, heard it, experienced it, or for that matter really read about it. Scripture is not understandable for the natural man. Hello! The foolishness of preaching is the way to win the lost. Somebody hear me, WE HAVE TO PREACH THE WORD IN TRUTH AND LOVE. No, not you pastor, evangelist, S.S. teacher, Deacon, no, YOU church. YOU Christian. YOU who have professed Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord. SPEAK UP. NOW! NOW is the time. Can somebody get this?
The next kind of hunger they experienced is:
Spiritual Hunger! – Hey, can I get a witness here on at least one thing? God is the only one who forgives. Period. There is no way other than calling on the Name of Jesus Christ whereby a person may be saved. Forgiveness is the cry of every person with a hearbeat, they just don’t know it yet. Exactly. Every person ever created has the need for God’s forgivness. Without it, they spend their whole lives in spiritual hunger. Have you missed a meal lately? Do you know what it feels like to go without food? The problem in America today is that we have gotten so fat on food supplies and creature comforts that we’ve actually masked the need for God’s forgivness. That DOES NOT MEAN IT WENT AWAY! ‘Comfort’ is a deciever just like everything else that attempts to blind our sight from God Himself. Church: we need to pray. That God will pull back the veil over the eyes of people and allow them to see the Son. Then, we need to GO… into all of this world and point others to Christ. In His presences is ‘fullness of joy’! Did you hear that? ‘fullness’ of joy. I know you’ve been to the buffet line and gotten so full that you couldn’t do anything but lay down and take a nap. Don’t deny it! Peace comes when we recieve God’s forgiveness, we need to wake up and go tell. I dare you to start today.
Well, enough about ‘them’ now what about ‘us’. Speaking to the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ let’s take a look at the:
Miraculous– Is’nt it amazing that even though Jesus was standing right there, He was the one that blessed the loaves and fish but it was the ‘disciples’ who did the distributing? I mean come on, anybody can see that! LOL God can do this Himself, but He chose to partner with little people like you and I to get the greatest job on the planet done… (v. 19-20) He didn’t have to do that, but He chooses to use us. We don’t manufacture the bread, but we are called to be delivery drivers. Be a bread man! Start driving today! In verse 16 we learn one key thing that should overcome every objection out there in the body of Christ today – we say and I hear everywhere I go that ‘it is impossible’, I can’t do this, I’m afraid I’ll say something wrong, etc. etc. etc. NO, it is NOT impossible. It is perfectly normal as a matter of fact for you and I to simply OBEY what we’ve been told to do. Jesus told His disciples in this verse: “you feed them”. Enough said.
So let me ask you today: Are you going? Are you telling? Are you sharing your faith in Christ with others? George Barna says that only 3 percent of professing Christians will share their faith over their lifetime! Not much of an IMPACT is it? 3 percent? So here’s my dare to you:
GET UP, GET OUT THERE, TALK TO SOMEBODY ABOUT THE ONE THAT EVERYBODY NEEDS TO HEAR ABOUT… JESUS.
SETTING GOALS?
HAVE A GOAL:
Philippians 3: 13-14 -“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
1. RunFreely
2. RunFocused
3. Run toFinish
Can you imagine what it would be like to be at a track meet waiting for the start of the 100 meter race? Gathered together are the top runners from across the world. Fractions of a second separate these runners. Whil e the marathon is a test of stamina and endurance, the 100 meters is an explosion of power that is over in less than ten seconds. If you have ever run the sprints you know that there is little room for error. Often a race is won in the start itself. But imagine that as the runners come to the blocks that something seems strange about the world record holder. You pick up your binoculars to get a better view and what you see doesn’t make any since. Strapped around his ankles are 25 pound weights. For what ever reason, he has decided to run with this extra load. There is no way he is going to win.
Run so that you can win! – Decide to set goals and clearly get definition in your direction. The sky is the limit to your potential if you clarify your aim. Go for it!
GOAL SETTING PRINCIPALS:
1. Have a Goal – Write it Down: Philippians 3: 13-14 – “Brothers I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the GOAL to WIN the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
The Apostle Paul here shows his gut determination to move forward no matter what the cost he had to pay now. He shows intense focus on the NOW by stating that he will NOT look back but instead will “Press ON”.
A. Set a Time Limit -“Season”: Isaiah 55:10-11 “As the rain and the snow come down from Heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sewer and bread for the eater, So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me void but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”
God teaches us that there are “Seasons” in life and even does so by his own creation while he set aside different days of the week when his stages of creativity were unveiled in the beginning. We experience seasons and even create our own with Sporting events and other activities that we as humans either are active in, or spectators of, as we go through life. Your goal will have its season, Preparation will meet with destiny and soon you’ll see yourself enjoying the fruits of your labor.
B. Break the Goal down into Steps:
Proverbs 16:9 “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.”
The Proverbs are a great source to adopt sound principles for a Godly quality of life. The Bible says that if you will sit down and consider in your heart what you want to accomplish, God will be your guide in all that you endeavor.
C. Provide Motivation:
Hebrews 3:13 “But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sins deceitfulness.
When was the last time that you took the “High” road? Most of the time when we get down and out the last thing we think of is encouraging someone else. The Bible says quite the opposite! If things aren’t going your way, be determined and look for something to encourage someone about. By doing this you’ll illustrate your willingness to obey God and you’ll fulfill his greatest command and that is “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and strength, and Love your neighbor as yourself.”
2. Take Action: James 2:17 “In the same way, faith by itself if not accompanied by action, is dead.”
The author here in the book of James is telling us that without actions nothing can be accomplished or measured. The Bible says that without Faith, it is impossible to please God…isn’t it an awesome thing to know that God in his own word tells us to “GO FOR IT”?
3. Health – Strive for Excellent Health in Jesus Name: 1 Timothy 4:8 “For physical training is of some value, but Godliness has value for ALL things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
Jesus, when he went to the Cross bore our sickness, illness and disease and by his stripes, we are healed. Jesus wants you to live a strong and healthy life and did not die so that you would submit to poor physical and mental conditioning. Make every effort to take hold of his teaching on this subject that your life may be full of energy and strength.
4. Take Responsibility for Your own Actions: Romans 3:19 “Now we know that whatever the Law says, it says to those who are under the Law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God. “
Be careful Young Eagle, not to get caught up in wanting to point the finger when things go wrong. It is in our human nature to lash out when we seem to be going against the grain but often times it is Our Lord himself trying to get our attention and alter the direction that we are heading. Look at these times as a Loving chastening of the Lord. The Bible teaches us that Jesus chastens those he loves and he will not suffer you to be cast down. Learn from your mistakes and take it to him in prayer. Watch him at work and see if he will not guide you through the tough times of set-back. Above all admit the mistakes to him and ask him for his solution and he will honor your request.
5. Adapt to Changing Conditions: 1 Thessalonians 16:18 “Be joyful always; pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
God wants to be your guide. I know in my own life how I learned what it meant to pray without ceasing. He is ever interceding for you on your behalf to the Father; he wants to be in constant contact with you in every situation.
6. Don’t Give Up – Create Solutions: Philippians 4:13 “I can do ALL Things through Christ who strengthens me.”
The Apostle Paul was in Jail when he wrote these very words. I hope, Young Eagle, that in your travels, you have never had an unfortunate set of circumstances where you found yourself behind bars; but can you imagine the trust that this man had in the Lord Jesus Christ to realize that he was with him every step of the way? Life will deal you some challenging blows, but if you will write these words on your heart, God will give you the strength to overcome more than you can imagine. Think on your feet, be creative in adapting during tough situations and quote these words over and over again until you realize that God is ALWAYS FAITHFUL.
7. Be Decisive – Don’t be afraid to Make Decisions: Because…..1 Thessalonians 5:24 “The One who calls you is faithful and he WILL DO IT.”
This will take extra effort on your part. The Bible says in Psalms 91:1-2 “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High, shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord: He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in Him will I trust.” When you pray, go into the secret place and be alone with God. The Bible says that God will then reward you “Openly”. Every decision is a difficult one unless you have the confidence and certainty that you are doing the right thing. Young Eagle, Prayer, focus, and diligent Bible study are the only ways to make certain that you are making the right call. After these steps, proceed with confidence and trust in God to give clarity to your direction.
8. Believe in Yourself & Your Ideas: Colossians 3:17 “And whatever you do whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
In other words, when you are walking with the Lord, you will have a heightened sensitivity to the decisions you make. We are always discussing our beliefs in God but often times we don’t pause to realize that “God really believes in Us Too!” He created you Young Eagle. He wants nothing more than to see you blessed, not stressed, walking strong and believing in your ideas and efforts. Jesus wants you to be encouraged in every situation in life. If you think about when you have a sporting event or special occasion when maybe family and friends and others are gathered to watch you in action; always remember that along with all those people there at the moment, there is One who is watching eagerly for you to do well and his seat in the house on every one of these occasions is the most expensive seat in the House. He died that we might inherit eternal life. Let that be a reality through your obedience to him. Do everything as unto him and your plans can’t fail.
9. Be a Good Steward – Become a Giver: Malachi 3:10 “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the windows of Heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough to contain it.”
I know what you’re thinking Young Eagle! How at this young age in life without income and …..God does love a cheerful GIVER! Not so that you may measure material gain but that you will participate in God’s principles for giving. Jesus presided over the taking of the offering in the Church when he preached. He was not looking for the person who gave the most. He was looking for the person who had the deepest need. Often times we need to just forget about the circumstances and focus our attention on Jesus. Purpose in your heart the amount and why you are giving. Then give with a cheerful heart. God Loves a Cheerful Giver. After all He “GAVE” his only begotten Son for us, just remember he wants us to be more like him.
10. Hold Fast to Your Commitment: 1 Corinthians 15:58 “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand FIRM. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord because you know that your Labor in the Lord is NOT in vain.”
Young Eagle, hear me right, Commitment is only the level of pain that we will tolerate until we quit! Never give up. When you make a decision, stick to it. This scripture reveals God’s character and attitude toward commitment. He simply says “STAND FIRM”. If you are following the principles taught in this session, there is NO REASON for you not to be able to stand up under whatever comes your way that would try to deter you from hitting your target.
PLAN: Proverbs 16:3: “Commit to the Lord WHATEVER YOU DO and your Plans WILL SUCCEED.”
DISCIPLINE: Discipline requires extra effort on your part Young Eagle. Don’t be distracted by the World or it’s methods. When you set your mind to anything, you 
can achieve it if you’ll be persistent and keep yourself focused on the principles taught in this lesson. Discipline yourself by setting rules that you know you must follow for your Goals to be met.
Finally, if you’ll pick a spot somewhere past the Goal and actually see yourself experiencing the benefits of that Goal long after it is achieved, you’ll see the Season that is on the Horizon. Young Eagle, you will be at maximum pace when you cross the finish line instead of just running out of steam when you arrive. Make a personal commitment to “Finish Well” in whatever you do and always be consistent in your efforts to stay the course.
In closing, I want you to know Young Eagle that I myself, have FAILED, many times. I know what it is like to be in situations that are frustrating, sometimes it seemed that they would never end. I never believed in nor did I practice Goal Setting as a Young Person and the early years of my life are a reflection of my lack of attention to detail and simply going through life “Winging It”. Spread your Wings, it is time for you to FLY!
FISHING OR FLOUNDERING?
Many times we as Christians…
Fail to obey God’s call to witness because of pride. “What will someone think?” “What if they reject me?” “I’m not a good speaker.” “There will be other people to tell them.” But Christ made Himself of no reputation and took on the form of man to endure the Cross for us. If He left Heaven’s throne for us, can we not simply talk to someone else about Him?
Do you ever find yourself ignoring God’s leading to witness? We are all guilty of not obeying God’s every impulse. Rather than thinking of what others will think of you, think of what Christ will think if you fail to witness to them. Commit right now to being sensitive to God’s leading in the area of witnessing and let Him use you to tell others of His love.
ALL THE PEOPLE!
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations,”
John 11: 52-52 – And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation; 52And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad. 53Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death.
*Nations (defined) – Nation (defined) – Greek: ethnos, gentile, heathen, nation, people. Race of people.
Mark goes ahead and says: “every creature” – Mark 16: 15 -“baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
Circumcision (defined) – to cut around, a medical term, change the condition of. It was the mark of obedience to the Abrahamic Covenant from the human side.
“The distinctive feature in Jewish practice, based on the Abrahamic Covenant, is its link with baby-hood. Thus a Jewish child is virtually born into the covenant, as he is into the Jewish community. Circumcision became especially popular during and after the Babylonian exile. It is interesting to observe that this covenant was already open to others besides Abraham’s descendants, and conversely, that his descendants by failing to practice circumcision could be cut off from the covenant people. Circumcision thus symbolized not a social kinship but an… Obedience to God’s commands.
Jesus said: “IF you love me, you will keep my _________________________ ? (Commandments)
The Challenge: DECIDE. The bottom line is your either fishing or floundering!. All I’m challenging you to do is FISH! GO TELL! The sky is the limit to the potential you and I have if we will ONLY TRUST HIM!
