Persevering in Tough Times

DT: Paul, while facing his fate places his confidence in prayer and the power of God through God’s Holy Spirit to deliver him and honor Christ.

Aim: We will face our troubled times prayerfully and trusting the power of God.

Introductions:

I. Live Confidently ()

Philippians 1:19 ESV

for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance,

Paul would not allow his circumstances to discourage him.

— Paul was confident in prayer

D

— God answers prayer

— Paul was confident in the Spirit

— God is active

Illustration: Little girl playing on a ship while going through rough waters . . . My father is the captain of the ship

Application: Live confidently, knowing that God has everything under control. Pray for others who are struggling. Pray with the church.

II. Strive to Honor Christ ()

Philippians 1:20 ESV

as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.

— Paul honored Christ regardless of who was against him

— Paul honored Christ regardless of what he faced

Illustration:

Sobieski, King of Poland in the late 17th century, is best remembered as the man who saved central Europe from invading armies of Turks in 1683. With the Turks at the walls of Vienna, Sobieski led a charge that broke the seige. His rescue of Vienna is considered one of the decisive battles in European history.

In announcing his great victory the king paraphrased the famous words of Caesar by saying simply, “I came; I saw; God conquered.”

Galaxie Software, 10,000 Sermon Illustrations (Biblical Studies Press, 2002).

Application: Does Christ get honor from your life? Even while you struggle does glory go to Christ? Live a life that says “To God be the Glory”

Andre Crouch said it this way:

How can I say thanks for the things you’ve done for me Things so undeserved Yet you gave to prove your love to me The voices of a million angels Could not express my gratitude All that I am and ever hope to be I owe it all to Thee

(Chorus) To God be the glory To God be the glory To God be the glory For the things He has done With His blood, He has saved me With His power, He has raised me. To God be the glory For the things he has done

(Bridge) Just let me live my life And let it be pleasing, Lord to Thee And should I gain any praise, Let it go to Calvary.

With His blood, He has saved me With His power, He has raised me. To God be the glory For the things he has done.