A. Sometimes we face uncertain times in our lives. The excitement we face as new Christians is often replaced by the cold grey skies of winter when we begin to face the troubles caused by the world, the flesh, and the devil.
B. At times, it seems we can’t continue; we simply cannot move forward in our Christian walk.
C. This morning we will talk about how the Father strengthens our character so we can walk on the path of God as strong and agile men and women of God.
II.Heb. 12:3 - Consider
A. Sometimes we need a time of reflection to think about Jesus.
B. The bible tells us to meditate, ponder and consider the word of god and we will be like trees planted by the river of water. Psalms 1:2-3
C. Christians often fail to practice the presence of God by considering Jesus. We must fix our eyes on Jesus (vs 2) to help us get our feet on a firm foundation.
III.Heb. 12:5 - Do not despise God for loving you as a son
A. Gal 6:7-8 - When we sow to the flesh we will get nothing but weeds.
B. God will allow us to sow the seed; our walk in Christ may be shaky; but the Father will allow us to walk on uneven paths if we want to.
1. You ever walk down a dirt road with a rock in your shoe? It hurts and you don’t get very far before you have to stop and figure out what’s wrong!
2. So is the walk with God. We don’t get very far walking our own way before the Father pulls us in and disciplines us.
IV.Heb. 12:9 – Submit to the hand of the Lord.
A. Humility is one of the key character traits that God desires to build in us.
B. Many believe they own the market when it comes to perfection.
1. I would never do anything like that
2. I just don’t understand how they can be that way
3. Why does my wife act that way?
C. All of these are characteristics of pride, and the scripture tells us that pride goes before a fall.
D. God has called us to a walk of love and holiness. Vs. 10 tells us that we are partakers of His holiness when we humble ourselves to him.
V.Conclusion
A. The Father loves us and desires that we consider Jesus, the beginning and the end, the author and finisher of our faith.
B. The Father loves us and will discipline us to keep us on the right path.
C. The Father loves us and wants to teach us how to walk in love and holiness.
VI.Psalms 32:6-11 – Be trong and of good courage. The Lord is your helper; He will make your character strong and teach you how to finish your journey all the way to glory.
