Heart and Mind Part 2
Message Summary: This generation in our nation is experiencing feelings of being overwhelmed, depression, anxiety, stress, etc. We are lost in a lack of optimism or knowing who we are in Christ. These negative thoughts are leading us to feel like we are drowning and going down the wrong path. The Church as a whole is lost in knowing what to say and do. Often the churches are leaving people feeling ashamed, condemned and isolated. Three lies we tell ourselves are: Something is wrong with God, the Bible doesn’t work for me, and something is wrong with me. We need to resist and replace these thoughts with the truths in God’s word of who we are in Christ. We need to trust and believe God is bigger than any problem or situation, and He will never leave or forsakes us in this journey called life. We all experience some type of torment or thorn in our flesh as we walk out this life. Find a “life verse” to hold onto when you feel attacked. Decree out loud what God says about you and His promises. Jesus also felt pain and didn’t want to face the cross, yet He knew his father, God, would be with him through it all. You can also overcome things in your life because Christ is with you. Find friends that will listen and encourage you. Your pain or burden just might be a gift resulting in the best version of you. Start declaring who you are in Christ, keep your eye on him and not your problem, and help others along your journey. Always remember God can do things beyond anything you can think or imagine. Your best days are ahead of you!
- What is your thorn in the flesh that torments you?
- What negative words or thoughts do you secretly tell yourself?
- What “life verse” can you use each day to encourage yourself?
- How can you help others as you journey through the good and bad times?
2 Corinthians 12:7-9 – And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of revelations, a thorn was given me in the body, a messenger of Satan, to torment me, lest I be exalted above measure. I asked the Lord three times that this thing might depart from me. But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will boast in my weaknesses, that the power of Jesus may rest upon me.
1 Peter 5:8-9 – Be sober and watchful, because your adversary the devil walks around as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him firmly in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.
