Sermon Title: Fight for Freedom—Favor Will Come

Monthly Theme: Freedom & Favor

Theme Scriptures (KJV)

Galatians 5:1

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage."

2 Timothy 4:7-8

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

Introduction

There are some things in life that are simply worth fighting for.

A soldier fights for his country.

A firefighter fights to save lives.

A parent fights for the well-being of their children.

A patient fights through sickness for another chance to live.

Throughout American history, men and women fought for freedom. The Revolutionary War secured the nation's independence. During the Civil War and the years that followed, countless people sacrificed so that slavery would end. The Civil Rights Movement required courageous men and women who marched, prayed, endured beatings, arrests, and injustice so future generations could enjoy greater freedom.

Every freedom we enjoy came because someone was willing to fight.

The same is true spiritually.

The devil never willingly releases people from bondage.

He fights to keep people addicted.

He fights to keep families divided.

He fights to keep churches weak.

He fights to keep believers discouraged.

But God never intended His children to surrender.

He called us to fight—not with fists, but with faith.

Not with hatred, but with holiness.

Not with worldly weapons, but with the Word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit.

Here's the encouraging news:

If you keep fighting for your freedom, God's favor is waiting on the other side of the battle.

1. Freedom Is Worth Fighting For

Galatians 5:1 (KJV)

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage."

Paul says, "Stand fast."

That means don't quit.

Don't surrender.

Don't return to what God already delivered you from.

The enemy wants you to go backward.

God calls you to stand firm.

Some battles are not about gaining freedom—they are about keeping the freedom God has already given you.

2. Every Child of God Will Face a Fight

Ephesians 6:12 (KJV)

"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."

Your greatest battle isn't against people.

It's against spiritual forces.

The devil will use:

• Fear
• Temptation
• Discouragement
• Division
• Bitterness
• Doubt

Never mistake people for the real enemy.

Fight the spirit behind the problem.

3. Fight With the Right Weapons

2 Corinthians 10:3-4 (KJV)

"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)"

God has already equipped us.

Our weapons include:

• Prayer
• The Word of God
• Faith
• Worship
• Fasting
• Obedience

The devil cannot defeat a believer who stays on his knees before God.

4. Your Fight Today Can Produce Favor Tomorrow

Joseph

Joseph fought through betrayal, slavery, false accusations, and prison.

He never quit trusting God.

Genesis 41:39-41 (KJV)

"And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath shewed thee all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art:

Thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled...

And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt."

Joseph's prison became the pathway to promotion.

His fight produced favor.

5. David Fought Goliath Before He Wore the Crown

1 Samuel 17:45 (KJV)

"Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied."

David fought before he became king.

Your giant may be preparing you for your next level.

Sometimes your greatest battle introduces you to your greatest blessing.

6. Jesus Fought the Greatest Battle for Our Freedom

Colossians 2:14-15 (KJV)

"Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us... and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it."

Jesus fought at Calvary.

He defeated sin.

He defeated death.

He defeated hell.

He defeated Satan.

Because Jesus won the battle...

We can live in freedom.

7. Favor Always Follows Faithfulness

2 Timothy 4:7-8 (KJV)

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

Paul didn't say life was easy.

He said,

"I fought."

He didn't say there were no battles.

He said,

"I finished."

Because he kept fighting...

A reward was waiting.

The lesson is simple:

Fight today.

Favor tomorrow.

Biblical Examples of Fighting Before Favor

Jacob

He wrestled with God all night before receiving a new name and a blessing.

Joshua

He fought many battles before Israel possessed the Promised Land.

Esther

She risked her life before becoming the instrument God used to save an entire nation.

Nehemiah

He fought opposition while rebuilding Jerusalem's walls, yet God gave success and honor.

Blind Bartimaeus

He fought through the crowd, refused to be silenced, and received both his sight and a new future.

Illustration

A butterfly struggles to emerge from its cocoon.

One day a man tried to help by cutting the cocoon open.

The butterfly came out easily—but it never flew.

The struggle was necessary because it forced fluid into its wings, making them strong enough to fly.

Sometimes we ask God to remove every struggle.

God says,

"The struggle is preparing you for the favor that is coming."

Application

Ask yourself:

• What battle am I facing today?
• Am I fighting with God's weapons or my own?
• Have I become discouraged too soon?
• What favor might God be preparing through this struggle?

Don't quit.

Don't give up.

Don't retreat.

Your battle has an expiration date.

Conclusion

Freedom is not free.

It requires a fight.

The Israelites fought before entering Canaan.

David fought before wearing the crown.

Joseph endured prison before ruling Egypt.

Paul fought before receiving his crown.

Jesus fought at Calvary before the empty tomb.

And now God says to His people:

Keep fighting.

Keep praying.

Keep believing.

Keep standing.

Because the battle you're fighting today is preparing you for the favor God has already planned for tomorrow.

Closing Scripture – Romans 8

"Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us."

Closing Declaration

Fight for your freedom. Fight for your family. Fight for your faith. Fight for your future. And don't lose heart, because when God gives you the victory, His favor will surely follow.

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Sermon Title: The Joy of Freedom

Monthly Theme: Freedom & Favor

Theme Scripture: John 8:36 (KJV)

"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."

Introduction

One of the greatest emotions God gives mankind is joy. Joy is more than happiness. Happiness depends on what happens around you, but joy comes from what God has done within you.

There is no greater joy than knowing you are free.

When a soldier returns safely from war, there is joy.

When a patient hears the doctor say, "You're cancer free," there is joy.

When a person who has been declared innocent walks out of prison, there is joy.

When the Berlin Wall came down, people celebrated because freedom had finally come.

And on Juneteenth, after years of slavery and two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued, many enslaved African Americans in Texas finally heard they were free. There was shouting, crying, hugging, dancing, praying, and praising God because freedom always brings joy.

Spiritually, many people are still living like slaves when Jesus has already purchased their freedom.

Jesus did not die merely to forgive us.

He died so we could live free.

The devil wants Christians to drag around chains that Christ has already broken.

But God wants His children to walk in victory, favor, peace, and joy.

Today we are going to discover why every believer ought to rejoice because of the freedom we have in Jesus Christ.

1. There Is Joy When You Discover You Are Truly Free

John 8:36 (KJV)

"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."

Notice Jesus didn't say you would be "a little free."

He didn't say "partially free."

He said free indeed.

That means genuine freedom.

Freedom from guilt.

Freedom from condemnation.

Freedom from the penalty of sin.

Freedom from Satan's control.

Freedom from fear.

Many people have been forgiven but still live as though they are condemned.

Jesus says,

"Stop living like a prisoner when I have already opened the prison door."

Illustration

Imagine someone sitting inside a prison cell after receiving a full pardon.

The prison door is unlocked.

The sentence has been canceled.

But he refuses to leave because he doesn't believe the pardon belongs to him.

Many Christians live exactly like that.

Jesus says,

"Come out and enjoy what I already paid for."

2. Freedom Gives You a Song Even Before the Chains Fall Off

Acts 16:25-26 (KJV)

"And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed."

Paul and Silas had every reason to complain.

They had been beaten.

Humiliated.

Locked in prison.

Feet in stocks.

Yet they started praying and singing.

They praised before they were delivered.

Many people wait until God changes their situation before they praise Him.

Paul praised God while still in prison.

Sometimes your praise becomes the key that unlocks your prison.

The joy of freedom often begins before the chains actually fall off.

3. Freedom Restores Everything Bondage Tried to Steal

Psalm 126:1-3 (KJV)

"When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.

Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The Lord hath done great things for them.

The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad."

Notice what freedom restored.

Their laughter returned.

Their singing returned.

Their hope returned.

Their dreams returned.

Bondage steals joy.

Bondage steals peace.

Bondage steals confidence.

But when God sets people free...

Laughter comes back.

Hope comes back.

Purpose comes back.

Joy comes back.

4. Jesus Came Specifically to Bring Freedom

Luke 4:18 (KJV)

"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised."

Jesus announced His ministry by saying,

"I came to free people."

He came to free:

The brokenhearted.

The addicted.

The oppressed.

The discouraged.

The wounded.

The captive.

Everywhere Jesus went...

People left different than they came.

He still does that today.

5. Freedom Gives Us Power to Live for God

Galatians 5:1 (KJV)

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage."

Paul says,

Don't go back.

Don't pick up yesterday's chains.

Don't allow old habits...

Old sins...

Old attitudes...

Old fears...

To enslave you again.

Freedom is not permission to sin.

Freedom is power to overcome sin.

6. Freedom Opens the Door to God's Favor

When people become free...

God begins trusting them with greater assignments.

Joseph

Joseph was freed from prison.

Soon afterward...

He became governor of Egypt.

Freedom prepared him for favor.

The Three Hebrew Boys

They refused to bow to idols.

Their spirits remained free.

God promoted them after the fiery furnace.

Peter

Peter was released from prison by an angel.

Immediately afterward...

He went right back to preaching the Gospel.

Sometimes your greatest favor begins after your greatest freedom.

7. Somebody Paid for Your Freedom

Freedom is never free.

America's freedom cost the lives of soldiers.

The freedom celebrated on Juneteenth came after generations of enslaved people endured unimaginable suffering, and after countless abolitionists, soldiers, and ordinary men and women risked everything to end slavery and secure liberty for others.

Our spiritual freedom cost even more.

Isaiah 61:1 (KJV)

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound."

Jesus fulfilled this prophecy.

He shed His blood.

He died on the cross.

He paid a debt He did not owe because we owed a debt we could not pay.

Every time we worship...

Remember—

Somebody paid.

Every time we pray...

Remember—

Somebody paid.

Every blessing we enjoy spiritually came because Jesus paid the ultimate price.

Humorous Illustration

A little boy was flying a kite.

Someone asked,

"How do you know it's still up there? I can't even see it."

The little boy smiled and said,

"I know it's still there because every now and then I feel it pulling."

You may not always see everything God is doing.

But every now and then...

You'll feel His joy.

You'll feel His peace.

You'll feel His freedom reminding you...

God is still holding you.

Conclusion

When Israel crossed the Red Sea...

They sang.

When the captives returned to Jerusalem...

They laughed.

When Paul and Silas were delivered...

They praised.

When Jesus rose from the grave...

The disciples rejoiced.

And today...

Everyone whom Jesus has set free ought to have joy.

Don't just say you're free.

Walk free.

Live free.

Love free.

Forgive free.

Praise free.

Serve free.

Because the joy of freedom is one of God's greatest gifts to His children.

John 8:36 (KJV)

"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."

The prison door is open. The chains have been broken. The price has been paid. Now rejoice in the joy of your freedom!

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Sermon Title: Home Improvement

Theme Scripture: Joshua 24:15 (NKJV)

"But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Additional Scriptures:

• Psalm 127:1 – "Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it..."
• Ephesians 5:21-33
• Colossians 3:18-21
• Matthew 7:24-27

Introduction

Most people have heard of home improvement stores. Every weekend, people fill their carts with paint, lumber, flooring, tools, and appliances. They spend thousands of dollars making their homes look beautiful.

They remodel kitchens.
 They replace roofs.
 They install new windows.
 They landscape their yards.

But while many people improve their houses, very few improve their homes.

A house is made of bricks.
 A home is made of relationships.

A house can be purchased.
 A home must be built.

A house provides shelter.
 A home provides security, love, peace, and faith.

Many beautiful houses are filled with broken hearts.

Many expensive homes are spiritually bankrupt.

God is not nearly as concerned about your square footage as He is about your spiritual foundation.

The greatest home improvement project is not replacing cabinets—it's replacing attitudes.

Not installing new carpet—but installing Christ.

Not changing the furniture—but changing the family culture.

Today God is inviting every family to begin the greatest renovation project ever.

Real home improvement begins with Him.

Illustration

A television contractor once said,

"Most people call me because they notice cracks in the walls. But by the time I inspect the house, I discover the problem isn't the wall—it's the foundation."

Many families try to fix the visible cracks:

• Children acting out
• Marital conflict
• Financial pressure
• Lack of communication

But God says,

"I don't just patch walls—I rebuild foundations."

Point One

Every Home Needs the Right Foundation

Matthew 7:24-25

Jesus compared life to building a house.

Storms came to both houses.

The difference wasn't the storm.

The difference was the foundation.

Every family will experience storms.

• Financial storms
• Health storms
• Teenager storms
• Marriage storms
• Loss
• Grief
• Temptation

Storms don't destroy homes.

Weak foundations do.

The foundation must be:

• Jesus Christ
• Prayer
• The Word of God
• Worship
• Forgiveness

If Jesus isn't the foundation...

Everything else eventually shifts.

Illustration

You can buy the most expensive furniture in the world...

But if termites destroy the floor...

Eventually everything collapses.

Point Two

Every Home Needs Regular Maintenance

No one services their car once and expects it to run forever.

Neither can a family survive without maintenance.

Homes need:

• Daily prayer
• Family devotion
• Communication
• Forgiveness
• Time together

Neglected homes don't usually collapse overnight.

They deteriorate one day at a time.

Small problems ignored become major problems later.

Bible Example

Job continually prayed for his children.

He didn't wait until disaster came.

He maintained his family spiritually.

Point Three

Remove What Doesn't Belong

Before remodeling...

Old materials must be removed.

God cannot renovate while we're holding onto unhealthy habits.

Some homes need to remove:

• Bitterness
• Anger
• Pride
• Unforgiveness
• Addiction
• Gossip
• Constant criticism

You cannot fill a house with God's peace while entertaining the enemy.

Colossians 3 teaches us to:

Take off...

• Anger
• Wrath
• Malice

Then put on...

• Kindness
• Love
• Compassion
• Humility

God always replaces before He restores.

Illustration

A contractor cannot install beautiful hardwood floors over rotten wood.

The old must go.

Point Four

Upgrade Your Family's Communication

Many homes have excellent Wi-Fi...

But poor communication.

People text each other while living in the same house.

God designed families to talk.

Listen.

Pray.

Laugh.

Encourage.

Eat together.

Communication is the oxygen of every healthy home.

Proverbs says

"A soft answer turns away wrath."

Sometimes changing our tone changes the whole atmosphere.

Point Five

Every Family Needs the Master Builder

Psalm 127 says,

"Unless the Lord builds the house..."

Notice...

The Lord doesn't decorate.

He builds.

Only Jesus can rebuild:

• Broken marriages
• Rebellious children
• Hurt relationships
• Empty hearts

When Jesus enters a house...

Hope enters.

Peace enters.

Healing enters.

Love returns.

Bible Examples of Home Improvement

Noah

Built an ark...

But more importantly...

He built a faithful family.

Joshua

"As for me and my house..."

Leadership starts at home.

Cornelius

Led his entire household to Christ.

One man's obedience changed an entire family.

Lydia

Opened her home for ministry.

Her house became a place where the Gospel flourished.

Zacchaeus

Jesus visited one house...

and salvation came to the entire household.

What Every Home Needs

Not bigger televisions...

But bigger faith.

Not more bedrooms...

But more prayer rooms.

Not stronger locks...

But stronger relationships.

Not larger dining rooms...

But families eating together.

Not more streaming...

But more Scripture.

Not another remodel...

But revival.

Application

Ask yourself:

• Is Christ the foundation of my home?
• Is prayer heard in my house?
• Is forgiveness practiced?
• Is God's Word honored?
• What needs renovating?

God isn't asking whether your house is expensive.

He's asking whether your home belongs to Him.

Conclusion

When people hear "home improvement," they usually think about paint, flooring, kitchens, or roofs.

But God's greatest home improvement project is changing hearts.

He renovates marriages.

He restores parents.

He heals children.

He rebuilds broken relationships.

He transforms ordinary houses into places where His presence dwells.

The greatest words Joshua ever spoke were not about possessions or success, but about priorities:

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

That declaration can still change a family today.

Closing Challenge

Before you ask God to improve your finances...

Ask Him to improve your family.

Before you ask Him to enlarge your house...

Ask Him to enlarge your faith.

Before you remodel your living room...

Invite Jesus to remodel every heart that lives there.

When God improves the home, He changes generations.

One family surrendered to God today can become a legacy of faith for tomorrow.

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The Satanic Attack on the Family

Scripture: Joshua 24:15; Ephesians 6:10-18; Psalm 127:1

Theme: The enemy knows that if he can weaken the family, he can weaken the church, the community, and the nation.

Introduction

We are living in a generation where the family is under tremendous pressure. Today's battles are not only financial—they are spiritual, emotional, and digital.

Families are fighting:

• Busy schedules that leave little time together.
• Social media that often replaces real conversations.
• Cell phones that connect us to the world while disconnecting us from one another.
• Confusion about biblical values.
• Anxiety, depression, loneliness, and stress.
• Financial pressures and rising costs of living.
• Marriages under attack.
• Children growing up without consistent spiritual guidance.

The enemy understands something many people have forgotten:

If he can destroy the family, he can weaken society.

Jesus said:

"The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy..." (John 10:10)

Satan wants to steal peace, destroy marriages, confuse children, and weaken faith.

But God still has a plan for the family.

1. Parents Must Still Be the First Spiritual Teachers

Ezekiel 16:44
"As is the mother, so is her daughter."

The principle still applies today.

Children learn more from what we do than what we say.

They watch:

• How we pray.
• How we treat people.
• How we handle conflict.
• How we worship.
• How we forgive.
• Whether Jesus is truly first in our lives.

Children don't need perfect parents.

They need parents who sincerely follow Christ.

2. Culture is Redefining Family—but God Has Not Changed

Our world constantly changes its opinions about marriage, morality, and relationships.

God's Word does not.

Hebrews 13:8

"Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever."

Culture changes.

God's truth never changes.

The enemy says:

• Commitment isn't necessary.
• Marriage isn't important.
• Faith can wait.
• Truth is relative.

God says:

• Marriage is honorable.
• Faithfulness matters.
• Holiness still matters.
• Families matter.

3. The Greatest Foundation for a Home Is God's Word

Psalm 127:1

"Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it."

Many families build on:

• Money
• Success
• Education
• Sports
• Entertainment

Those things are wonderful—but they cannot replace Christ.

A strong home is built on:

• Prayer
• Scripture
• Worship
• Forgiveness
• Love
• Grace

Homes built on Christ survive storms.

4. Families Need God's Presence More Than Ever

Technology has given us more ways to communicate than ever before.

Yet many families have never felt more disconnected.

Everyone may be sitting in the same room...

Yet each person is looking at a different screen.

God calls families to reconnect.

Some practical ways:

• Eat together.
• Pray together.
• Worship together.
• Read Scripture together.
• Put the phones down occasionally.
• Listen to each other.

The family altar still works.

5. A Strong Marriage Produces a Strong Family

Ephesians 5 teaches that marriage reflects Christ's relationship with the Church.

Children feel secure when they see:

• Respect
• Kindness
• Forgiveness
• Affection
• Teamwork

A healthy marriage becomes the emotional foundation of the home.

Marriage isn't maintained by romance alone.

It grows through daily choices to love, forgive, sacrifice, and serve.

6. Choose Your Spouse With Wisdom

2 Corinthians 6:14 reminds believers not to be unequally yoked.

Physical attraction changes.

Character lasts.

Before asking,

"Are they attractive?"

Ask:

• Do they love God?
• Can they pray?
• Are they trustworthy?
• Do they forgive?
• Are they committed?

A successful marriage begins long before the wedding.

7. Commitment Still Matters

Marriage is more than a ceremony.

It is a covenant.

Every marriage experiences:

• Disagreements
• Financial struggles
• Health issues
• Raising children
• Different personalities

The goal isn't to find a perfect spouse.

It's to become a Christ-like spouse.

Healthy marriages keep saying,

"We'll work through this together."

8. Faithfulness Honors God

Hebrews 13:4

"Marriage is honourable in all..."

Faithfulness isn't old-fashioned.

It's God's design.

Trust is built over years...

But can be broken in moments.

God calls husbands and wives to honor one another with:

• Loyalty
• Integrity
• Purity
• Respect

9. There Is Hope for Every Family

Perhaps someone says:

"I've failed."

"I've been divorced."

"My children have drifted."

"My marriage is struggling."

The good news is...

Jesus restores.

He heals.

He forgives.

He rebuilds.

Throughout Scripture God restored:

• Peter after failure.
• David after repentance.
• The Prodigal Son after rebellion.
• The woman caught in adultery after forgiveness.

If God restored them...

He can restore your family.

10. Revival Begins at Home

Joshua declared:

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Revival doesn't begin in Washington.

It doesn't begin in Albany.

It doesn't even begin at church.

It begins around the dinner table.

It begins in the living room.

It begins with fathers praying.

Mothers worshiping.

Children seeing authentic faith.

When families become strong...

Churches become strong.

Communities become strong.

Nations become strong.

Conclusion

The enemy is attacking the family because he knows its power.

But God has given us everything we need to stand.

When Christ is the center:

• Love overcomes hatred.
• Forgiveness overcomes bitterness.
• Prayer overcomes fear.
• Truth overcomes confusion.
• Hope overcomes despair.

The greatest investment we can make is not merely in our careers or possessions—it is in our families.

As Joshua declared,

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

That declaration is just as powerful today as it was thousands of years ago.

Invitation

If your family needs healing, this is the time to bring it to Jesus. Whether you are a husband, wife, parent, grandparent, single adult, or young person, Christ invites you to surrender every broken place to Him. He still restores marriages, reconciles families, saves children, and brings peace into troubled homes. Begin today by committing yourself—and your household—to the Lord. As you seek Him in prayer, obey His Word, and trust His grace, He can do what no human effort can accomplish. The family that puts Christ at the center will find strength for today and hope for tomorrow. 

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Theme: Strengthening the Family

Text: Joshua 24:15; 1 Timothy 1:18

Joshua 24:15 (KJV)

"But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."

1 Timothy 1:18 (KJV)

"This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy..."

Introduction: Don't Drop the Baton

During a relay race, four runners work together to win. Each runner may be talented, fast, and well-trained, but if one runner drops the baton, the race can be lost.

The baton is passed from one runner to another until it reaches the finish line.

Church, God has placed a spiritual baton in our hands.

That baton includes:

• Our faith
• Our families
• Our marriages
• Our children
• Our grandchildren
• Our testimony
• Our spiritual legacy

The problem in many homes today is not that God has failed.

The problem is that many people have dropped the baton.

Prayer has been dropped.

Bible reading has been dropped.

Family worship has been dropped.

Spiritual leadership has been dropped.

God is asking us today:

"Will you keep the charge I have given you?"

Joshua kept his charge.

Paul kept his charge.

Timothy was instructed to keep his charge.

Now it is our turn.

If we are going to strengthen our families, we must understand that God has entrusted us with something valuable.

The question is not whether we have a charge.

The question is:

Will we keep it?

1. We Have a Charge to Keep God First

Matthew 6:33

"But seek ye first the kingdom of God..."

Before Joshua could lead Israel, he had to settle who would be first in his life.

Strong families begin when God is first.

Not second.

Not third.

First.

Illustration

If the first button on a shirt is buttoned incorrectly, every other button will be out of place.

When God is out of place, everything else becomes disordered.

Application

The strongest families are not perfect families.

They are families that keep God at the center.

2. We Have a Charge to Protect Our Families

Nehemiah 4:14

"Fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses."

Families are under attack today.

The enemy attacks through:

• Division
• Temptation
• Distractions
• Confusion
• Discouragement

Strong families don't surrender.

They fight through prayer and faith.

Illustration

A shepherd protects the sheep because he understands wolves are real.

Parents must guard their homes spiritually.

3. We Have a Charge to Pass Faith to the Next Generation

Psalm 145:4

"One generation shall praise thy works to another."

Faith is never inherited automatically.

It must be taught intentionally.

Example

Timothy learned faith from his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice.

Someone invested in him.

Application

Our children should not only know our favorite sports team.

They should know our testimony.

4. We Have a Charge to Build the Family Altar

Genesis 35:3

"Let us arise, and go up to Bethel."

The family altar represents:

• Prayer
• Worship
• God's presence

Many homes have televisions in every room but no place for prayer.

Illustration

A fireplace without fire becomes decoration.

A family without prayer becomes spiritually cold.

Application

Families that pray together are strengthened together.

5. We Have a Charge to Live by Example

1 Corinthians 11:1

"Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ."

Children often imitate what they see.

More is caught than taught.

Illustration

A father told his son not to smoke while holding a cigarette in his own hand.

The son followed the example, not the instruction.

Application

Our lives are sermons our families read every day.

6. We Have a Charge to Remain Faithful During Difficult Times

Galatians 6:9

"Let us not be weary in well doing."

Every family faces storms.

Joshua faced battles.

Paul faced persecution.

Timothy faced opposition.

Yet they remained faithful.

Illustration

An oak tree becomes strong because it survives storms.

Without storms there would be no strength.

Application

Don't quit praying for your family.

Don't quit believing God.

Don't quit standing on His promises.

7. We Have a Charge to Leave a Godly Legacy

Proverbs 13:22

"A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children."

The greatest inheritance is not money.

The greatest inheritance is faith.

Example

Abraham's faith impacted Isaac.

Isaac's faith impacted Jacob.

Jacob's faith impacted twelve tribes.

One faithful life can affect generations.

Application

Ask yourself:

"What will my family remember about my walk with God?"

8. We Have a Charge to Finish Well

2 Timothy 4:7

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."

Paul did not say:

"I started the race."

He said:

"I finished."

Many people start strong.

God is looking for people who finish strong.

Illustration

A marathon is not won at the starting line.

It is won at the finish line.

Application

Stay faithful until the end.

Keep praying.

Keep serving.

Keep trusting.

Keep the charge.

Conclusion

Joshua said:

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Paul said:

"I have kept the faith."

Both men understood that God had entrusted something precious to them.

Today God has entrusted us with:

• Our faith
• Our family
• Our children
• Our grandchildren
• Our testimony

The world is changing.

Culture is changing.

Society is changing.

But our charge remains the same.

Don't drop the baton.

Don't abandon your assignment.

Don't neglect your responsibility.

Keep the charge.

Protect your family.

Pass on your faith.

Finish your race.

And one day may we hear the Lord say:

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

Altar Call

If you have grown weary carrying your responsibilities...

If you need strength to continue praying for your family...

If you want to recommit yourself to the charge God has given you...

Come to this altar today.

And declare:

"Lord, help me keep the charge You have placed in my hands."

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Sermon Title: Families Under Attack

Scripture: Nehemiah 4:14

Nehemiah 4:14 (KJV)

"Be not ye afraid of them: remember the Lord, which is great and terrible, and fight for your brethren, your sons, and your daughters, your wives, and your houses."

Introduction: The Enemy Knows Where to Attack

If an enemy wants to destroy a nation, he often attacks its foundation.

The family is the foundation of society.

Strong families build strong churches.

Strong churches build strong communities.

Strong communities build strong nations.

The devil understands this truth.

That is why Satan attacks:

• Marriages
• Parents
• Children
• Communication
• Morality
• Faith

The enemy is not simply after your house.

He is after what happens inside your house.

He is after the hearts of husbands, wives, sons, daughters, and grandchildren.

When Nehemiah was rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, the enemy attacked from every side.

The people became discouraged.

Fear spread through the camp.

But Nehemiah stood and reminded them what was at stake.

He said:

"Fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses."

That message is still relevant today.

Families are under attack, but God has given us the weapons to fight back.

1. The Family Is Under Attack Through Division

Mark 3:25

"And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand."

One of Satan's greatest weapons is division.

He divides:

• Husband against wife
• Parent against child
• Brother against brother

The enemy knows he doesn't have to destroy a family if he can divide it.

Illustration

A bundle of sticks tied together is difficult to break.

Separate them and they snap easily.

United families are stronger families.

2. The Family Is Under Attack Through Busyness

Psalm 46:10

"Be still, and know that I am God."

Families are busier than ever.

Parents are busy.

Children are busy.

Schedules are full.

Yet relationships are empty.

Short Story

A child once asked his father:

"Dad, can we schedule some time together next week?"

The father realized he had become so busy making a living that he forgot to make a life.

Families need more than activity.

They need connection.

3. The Family Is Under Attack Through Moral Confusion

Isaiah 5:20

"Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil."

The world constantly challenges God's standards.

What God calls right, society often calls wrong.

What God calls wrong, society often celebrates.

Families must stand on God's truth.

Illustration

A building without a solid blueprint eventually develops structural problems.

God's Word remains the blueprint for healthy families.

4. The Family Is Under Attack Through Neglect of Prayer

James 5:16

Many homes have Wi-Fi passwords but no prayer life.

Many families talk about everything except God.

Prayer invites God's power into the home.

Illustration

A phone disconnected from its charger eventually dies.

Families disconnected from prayer eventually become spiritually weak.

5. The Family Is Under Attack Through the Loss of Spiritual Leadership

Joshua 24:15

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Joshua took responsibility.

He didn't wait for culture to change.

He didn't wait for government to change.

He led his family.

Illustration

A train without an engine will not move far.

Families need godly leadership to stay on track.

6. The Family Is Under Attack Through Generational Drift

Judges 2:10

"There arose another generation after them, which knew not the LORD."

One generation failed to pass their faith to the next.

The result was spiritual decline.

Short Story

Timothy knew God because Lois and Eunice intentionally taught him.

Faith must be transferred, not assumed.

7. The Family Is Under Attack Through Fear and Discouragement

Nehemiah 4:14

The people became afraid while rebuilding.

Fear always tries to stop progress.

Many families today face:

• Financial fear
• Health concerns
• Relationship struggles
• Uncertain futures

But Nehemiah said:

"Remember the Lord."

Illustration

David did not focus on Goliath's size.

He focused on God's greatness.

Families that remember God find courage.

8. The Family Can Win the Battle

Romans 8:37

"Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us."

The family may be under attack, but it is not abandoned.

God still heals marriages.

God still restores children.

God still saves households.

God still strengthens families.

Illustration

A tree that survives strong winds develops deeper roots.

Sometimes the very attack meant to destroy a family becomes the thing that strengthens it.

Conclusion: Fight for Your Family

Nehemiah did not tell the people to surrender.

He told them to fight.

Fight for:

• Your marriage
• Your children
• Your grandchildren
• Your home
• Your spiritual legacy

Not with anger.

Not with bitterness.

But with:

• Prayer
• Faith
• God's Word
• Love
• Commitment

The enemy may be attacking your family today.

But God is greater than every attack.

Closing Declaration

The devil may attack our family—

But he cannot have our family.

The enemy may attack our marriage—

But he cannot have our marriage.

The enemy may attack our children—

But he cannot have our children.

Because we belong to God.

And as for me and my house,

We will serve the Lord!

Altar Call

If your family has been under attack...

If your marriage needs strengthening...

If you're praying for children, grandchildren, or loved ones...

Come to this altar today.

Let's stand together and declare:

"Lord, strengthen my family and help us win the battle."

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Sermon Title: Who Has Your Heart?

Scripture: Joshua 24:15

Joshua 24:15 (KJV)

"And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve... but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."

Introduction: Everybody Serves Something

Many people believe they are completely independent.

They say:

• "I do what I want."

• "Nobody tells me what to do."

• "I live life my own way."

But the truth is everyone serves something

1. Some Serve Money

Example: Judas Iscariot

Matthew 26:14-16

Judas loved money more than he loved Christ. He sold Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.

Lesson: Money is a wonderful servant but a terrible master. When money becomes our god, we will sacrifice our values for profit.

Illustration: Many people work overtime to get more money but never make time for God, family, or worship.

2. Some Serve Pleasure

Example: Samson

Judges 16

Samson was chosen by God and gifted with supernatural strength, but he repeatedly pursued sinful pleasures. His desire for pleasure eventually led to his downfall.

Lesson: Pleasure is temporary, but its consequences can be permanent.

3. Some Serve Pride

Example: King Nebuchadnezzar

Daniel 4:3

“Is not this great Babylon, that I have built?”

Nebuchadnezzar became consumed with pride and took credit for what God had done. God humbled him until he acknowledged God’s sovereignty.

Lesson: Pride lifts us up only to bring us down.

Quote: “The same sun that melts butter hardens clay.”

4. Some Serve Success

Example: The Rich Fool

Luke 12:16-21

This man focused his entire life on building bigger barns and accumulating wealth. He was successful in business but bankrupt toward God.

God called him a fool because he prepared for retirement but not eternity.

Lesson: Success without God is failure in disguise.

5. Some Serve Popularity

Example: King Saul

1 Samuel 15:24

Saul admitted:

“I feared the people, and obeyed their voice.”

Instead of obeying God, Saul wanted the approval of people.

Lesson: When you live for applause, you become a slave to opinions.

Illustration: Saul lost a kingdom because he cared more about public opinion than God’s opinion.

6. Some Serve Habits

Example: Esau

Genesis 25:29-34

Esau had a habit of satisfying immediate desires. He traded his birthright for a bowl of stew because he could not control his appetites.

Lesson: A habit that seems small today can cost you something valuable tomorrow.

7. Some Serve Addictions

Example: The Prodigal Son

Luke 15:11-16

The prodigal became addicted to a reckless lifestyle. He wasted his inheritance and ended up feeding pigs.

His desires controlled him until he finally came to himself and returned to the Father.

Lesson: Whatever controls you becomes your master.

Others serve God.

The question is not if you serve.

The question is who or what has your heart?

Joshua understood this truth.

As he approached the end of his life, he gathered the nation of Israel one final time.

He reminded them of God's faithfulness:

• God called Abraham.

• God delivered them from Egypt.

• God opened the Red Sea.

• God fed them in the wilderness.

• God gave them victory in Canaan.

Then Joshua asked a powerful question:

"After everything God has done for you, who has your heart?"

That same question is relevant today.

Why Joshua Said This

Israel had entered a dangerous season.

The battles were mostly over.

The Promised Land had been conquered.

The people were becoming comfortable.

Joshua knew that prosperity often creates spiritual forgetfulness.

The people were surrounded by the false gods of the Amorites.

There was pressure to fit in with the culture around them.

Joshua knew that if Israel lost their devotion to God, they would lose everything else.

So he challenged them:

Choose today.

Not tomorrow.

Not someday.

Today.

1. Your Heart Determines Your Direction

Proverbs 4:23

"Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."

Whatever captures your heart eventually controls your life.

What you love most will determine:

• Your priorities

• Your decisions

• Your habits

• Your future

Illustration

A compass always points north.

No matter where you carry it, its direction remains the same.

Your heart is the compass of your life.

Where your heart points, your life follows.

2. The World Constantly Competes for Your Heart

1 John 2:15

"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world."

The enemy doesn't always attack with persecution.

Often he attacks with distraction.

Today people spend more time:

• On phones

• Social media

• Entertainment

• Material pursuits

Than they spend seeking God.

Short Story

A little boy asked his father:

"Dad, how much do you make an hour?"

After hearing the answer, the boy asked:

"Can I buy one hour of your time?"

Many things compete for our attention and affection.

3. God Wants Complete Commitment

Matthew 22:37

"Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart."

Notice God did not ask for part of the heart.

He asked for all of it.

Joshua understood that divided loyalty creates spiritual weakness.

Illustration

A husband cannot successfully be committed to two wives.

Neither can believers successfully serve God and the world.

God demands complete devotion.

4. What Has Your Heart Will Influence Your Home

Joshua 24:15

"As for me and my house..."

Joshua understood leadership.

His personal devotion would affect his family.

Parents pass down more than possessions.

They pass down values.

Short Story

Timothy became a mighty servant of God because of the influence of Lois and Eunice.

Their faith became his faith.

Their devotion became his devotion.

5. Your Choices Today Shape Tomorrow

Galatians 6:7

"Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."

Every choice plants a seed.

Every seed eventually produces a harvest.

Joshua knew Israel's future depended on today's decision.

Illustration

An oak tree begins as a tiny acorn.

The future often hides inside small daily choices.

6. God Deserves Our Loyalty

Deuteronomy 6:5

God had already proven Himself faithful.

Joshua reminded Israel of everything God had done.

The question wasn't whether God deserved their loyalty.

The question was whether they would give it.

Illustration

If someone repeatedly saves your life, you naturally develop trust and gratitude.

How much more should we honor a God who saved our souls?

7. One Person's Decision Can Change an Entire Family

Joshua 24:15

Joshua didn't wait for everyone else.

He didn't take a poll.

He didn't ask for public opinion.

He simply declared:

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Illustration

One light bulb can illuminate a dark room.

One committed believer can change the atmosphere of an entire household.

8. Choose Before the Crisis Comes

Ecclesiastes 12:1

Many people wait until trouble arrives before seeking God.

Joshua urged the people to decide before disaster struck.

Illustration

You don't buy flood insurance after the flood arrives.

You prepare beforehand.

Strong families choose God before the storm comes.

Conclusion: The Most Important Decision

Joshua was not asking Israel to choose a religion.

He was asking them to choose their allegiance.

Who will have your heart?

Who will direct your life?

Who will guide your family?

At the end of his life Joshua stood firm and said:

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

His mind was made up.

His loyalty was settled.

His heart belonged to God.

Today God is asking us the same question:

Who has your heart?

Altar Call

Perhaps your heart has drifted.

Perhaps other things have taken God's place.

Perhaps your family needs spiritual renewal.

Today is the day to make a fresh commitment.

Come and declare:

"Lord, You have my heart, my home, my family, and my future."

And together let us say:

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!"

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Theme:  STRENGTHENING THE FAMILY – Joshua 24:15 - And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Build Your Family on the Right Foundation

Matthew 7:24-27 - “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock:  and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.  “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand:  and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” 

The Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy is going to fall. Scientists travel to the town of Pisa every year to measure the building's slow descent. They report that the 179-foot tower, which was built in 1173, moves about one-twentieth of an inch a year, and is now 17 feet out of plumb. In 1990 & 2001 renovations may have saved the 853-year old tower and prevent it from collapsing. Quite significantly, the word “pisa” means “marshy land,” which gives some clue as to why the tower began to lean even before it was completed. Also, another issue is the fact that its foundation is only 10 feet deep! The reason the Leaning Tower of Pisa is leaning is because it is built on a faulty foundation.

 One Man Built His House On The Sand - One man built his house with little preparation. He found a spot for his house and began to build. Sand is unstable, ever changing and moving. Sand offers no stability. Sand is not a good place to build a house. Sand can never provide a firm foundation. 

People who build their lives on religion, self-righteousness, and false hope will not serve God. They will not sacrifice. They only walk the easy path. Sand builders like instant results, instant rewards, instant satisfaction, and instant pleasure. They are shallow people who love the heights, but hate the depths. They are hot and then cold. They are in and then out. They are up and then down. 

 One Man Built His House On The Rock - The word “rock” refers to “a large outcropping of rock; the bedrock.” While one man built his house on the sand, the other dug deep. He dug until he reached the bedrock and built his house on the rock. The rock does not move. It is unchanging and stable. Rock offers a good foundation for a house.

What God tells them to do in His Word, they do. What God warns them no to do, they avoid. They pay any price, walk any path, and do anything the Lord tells them to do. The house built on the rock is built by someone who realizes that God deserves the best. They sacrifice, they work, they do anything to honor the Lord. They love HIm, honor HIm, and obey Him. The rock builder’s obedience to the Word of God proves they love the Lord, John 14:15. Rock builders hear the Word of God, the Gospel, and make it the foundation for their lives.

 The Foundation Nobody Sees

When people admire a beautiful home, they usually notice the paint, the windows, the landscaping, and the decorations. Very few people ask about the foundation.

Yet the most important part of the house is the part nobody sees.

The strength of a building is not determined by what is above the ground but by what is beneath it.

Likewise, strong families are not built on appearances.

A family may look successful on Facebook and still be falling apart spiritually.

A family may have money but lack peace.

A family may have education but lack wisdom.

A family may live in a large house but have no real home.

Jesus said the difference between a house that stands and a house that falls is the foundation.

Notice something important:

Both houses experienced the same storm.

One stood.

One collapsed.

The difference was not the storm.

The difference was the foundation.

Today many families are facing storms:

• Financial pressures
• Marital challenges
• Rebellious children
• Health concerns
• Cultural confusion
• Spiritual attacks

The question is not whether storms are coming.

The question is:

What are we building our family upon?

1. Build Your Family on Jesus Christ

1 Corinthians 3:11

"For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ."

Jesus did not say church attendance alone is the foundation.

He said He is the foundation.

Many people have built their families on:

• Money
• Careers
• Education
• Social status
• Athletic success

All of those things can disappear overnight.

But Jesus remains the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Illustration

In California, builders often construct homes with deep reinforced foundations because earthquakes are expected.

Wise builders prepare for trouble before trouble arrives.

Strong families anchor themselves in Christ before the storm comes.

2. Build Your Family on God's Word

Psalm 119:105

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."

The Bible is God's instruction manual for families.

It teaches us:

• How to love
• How to forgive
• How to parent
• How to handle conflict
• How to manage finances
• How to walk with God

Many families are trying to navigate life without consulting the Manufacturer's instructions.

Short Story

A man bought an expensive piece of equipment.

Instead of reading the instructions, he assembled it himself.

When it failed, he blamed the manufacturer.

The problem wasn't the product.

The problem was that he ignored the instructions.

God's Word still works when we follow it.

3. Build Your Family with Prayer

Philippians 4:6

Prayer is the glue that keeps families connected to God.

The family that prays together learns to depend on God together.

Illustration

When Peter was in prison, the church prayed.

The chains fell off.

The doors opened.

Prayer still opens doors that keys cannot open.

Some battles in our families will not be won through arguments.

They will be won through prayer.

4. Build Your Family with Love

Colossians 3:14

"And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness."

Love is more than a feeling.

Love is a decision.

Love chooses patience when emotions run high.

Love chooses kindness when people are difficult.

Love chooses commitment when things get hard.

Illustration

A fire needs continual fuel to keep burning.

Likewise, relationships require continual expressions of love.

If love is not fed, it begins to fade.

5. Build Your Family with Forgiveness

Ephesians 4:32

"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."

Every family will experience disappointment.

The strongest families are not those without problems.

The strongest families are those that know how to forgive.

Short Story

Two brothers argued over an inheritance and stopped speaking for years.

After one suffered a serious illness, the other visited him.

Before he left, both were crying.

One brother said:

"We wasted years over something that wasn't worth losing each other."

Forgiveness repairs what pride destroys.

6. Build Your Family Through Godly Leadership

Ephesians 5:23

Joshua declared:

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Joshua took responsibility for spiritual leadership.

Families become stronger when parents lead by example.

Children learn more from what they see than from what they hear.

Illustration

A lighthouse never leaves its position.

Because it stands firm, ships find their way home.

Parents must become spiritual lighthouses for their families.

7. Build Your Family Through Time Together

Deuteronomy 6:6-7

God instructed parents to teach His Word continually.

Strong families spend intentional time together.

Today many families live under the same roof but rarely connect.

Technology often gets more attention than relationships.

Illustration

A bank account cannot grow if no deposits are made.

Strong relationships require regular deposits of:

• Time
• Attention
• Encouragement
• Affection

8. Build Your Family for Future Generations

Psalm 145:4

"One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts."

The goal is not merely to have a strong family today.

The goal is to leave a legacy of faith tomorrow.

Joshua was thinking about future generations.

David thought about future generations.

Paul thought about future generations.

We must as

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Strengthening the Family

Message #2: "Building a Family That Lasts"

Text: Matthew 7:24-27

“Therefore, whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand:  and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.”

Introduction: The Difference Between a House and a Home

Anyone can build a house, but only God can help build a home.

A house is made of:

• Wood
• Brick
• Concrete
• Nails

A home is built with:

• Love
• Faith
• Prayer
• Commitment
• Forgiveness
• God's Presence

Jesus tells a story about two builders.

Both built houses.

Both faced storms.

Both experienced wind.

Both experienced rain.

Yet one house stood while the other collapsed.

The difference was not the storm.

The difference was the foundation.

The same is true for families today.

Every family faces storms:

• Financial storms
• Health storms
• Marital storms
• Raising children
• Grief and loss
• Temptations and pressures

The question is not whether storms will come.

The question is: What foundation are we building upon?

1. A Strong Family Is Built on Christ

Matthew 7:24

Jesus said the wise man built on the rock.

Christ is that Rock.

Many families build on:

• Money
• Success
• Education
• Popularity

None of these are strong enough to hold a family together.

Illustration

When an earthquake strikes, weak foundations crack first.

When life's earthquakes come, only Christ can keep a family standing.

2. A Strong Family Makes God First

Matthew 6:33

Families often put:

• Careers first
• Sports first
• Entertainment first

But strong families put God first.

Joshua said:

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

When God is first, everything else finds its proper place.

Short Story

A professor filled a jar with large rocks and asked if it was full.

Then he added smaller stones and sand.

The lesson:

Put the big things in first.

God must be the first rock in every family.

3. A Strong Family Communicates with Love

Ephesians 4:29 - . Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.

Many homes suffer not from lack of love but from lack of communication.

Words can:

• Build
• Heal
• Encourage
• Destroy

Illustration

A nail driven into a fence leaves a hole even after it is removed.

Words spoken in anger can leave lasting scars.

Strong families speak life to one another.

4. A Strong Family Prays Together

James 5:16 - Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

Prayer invites God's power into the home.

Families that pray together learn to depend on God rather than panic.

Story

A mother once said:

"I couldn't stop every storm from reaching my children, but I could pray for them before the storm arrived."

Prayer reaches places we cannot go.

5. A Strong Family Practices Forgiveness

Colossians 3:13 - bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.

No family survives without forgiveness.

Every member will make mistakes.

Forgiveness does not excuse wrong.

Forgiveness releases bitterness.

Illustration

Holding unforgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting someone else to die.

Strong families learn to let go.

6. A Strong Family Protects Its Children

Proverbs 22:6 - Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.

Children need more than food and clothing.

They need:

• Guidance
• Discipline
• Encouragement
• Godly examples

Joshua understood that every generation must be taught to know God.

Illustration

A young tree requires stakes and support.

Without guidance it grows crooked.

Children need loving direction while they are young.

7. A Strong Family Worships Together

Psalm 95:6 - Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.

Worship changes the atmosphere of a home.

Families that worship together learn to keep God at the center.

Short Story

One family began reading a Psalm before dinner every evening.

Years later their children said those moments became some of their strongest memories.

Small spiritual habits create lasting spiritual impact.

8. A Strong Family Leaves a Legacy

2 Timothy 1:5 - when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.

Paul spoke of the faith first found in Lois and Eunice before it reached Timothy.

Faith was passed down.

Strong families think beyond today.

They ask:

"What will our children remember about our walk with God?"

Illustration

A relay race is won when the baton is successfully passed.

Every generation must pass faith to the next generation.

Conclusion

Jesus never promised families would avoid storms.

He promised that families built on Him could survive them.

The wise builder and foolish builder faced the same storm.

The wise builder stood because he built on the Rock.

The question for every family today is:

"What foundation are we building on?"

If we build on Christ:

• We can survive the storm.
• We can overcome the pressure.
• We can leave a godly legacy.

Let us determine today:

"We are not merely building houses.

We are building families that will stand for generations."

Because families built on the Rock are families that last.

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Strengthening the Family

Theme Scripture: Joshua 24:15

“...Choose you this day whom ye will serve... but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Introduction: The Family Is Under Attack

We live in a time when families are being challenged from every direction. Marriages are under pressure, children are facing influences never seen before, communication is breaking down, and many homes are struggling spiritually.

The enemy understands something many people forget: If he can weaken the family, he can weaken the church, the community, and the nation.

Before Joshua died, he gathered Israel together for one final message. He reminded them of everything God had done for them—from Abraham, to Egypt, to the Red Sea, to the Promised Land. Then Joshua confronted them with a decision:

"You cannot live on yesterday's testimony. You must choose today who you will serve."

Joshua understood that every generation must make its own commitment to God.

The same challenge stands before us today.

The strength of a family is not found in money, education, or possessions. The strength of a family is found in its commitment to God.

Why Did Joshua Say, "As For Me and My House"?

Joshua was about 110 years old. He had seen miracles, victories, failures, and battles.

He knew:

• A nation is only as strong as its families.
• Children tend to follow the example of their parents.
• If parents abandon God, future generations often do the same.
• Every family must intentionally choose God.

Joshua was not forcing anyone.

He said:

"You choose for yourselves, but my mind is already made up. My house will serve the Lord."

Today God is looking for mothers, fathers, grandparents, and guardians who will make the same declaration.

1. Strong Families Have a Clear Commitment

Joshua 24:15

Joshua removed all uncertainty.

He didn't say:

• We might serve God.
• We will serve God when it is convenient.
• We will serve God when things get better.

He declared it.

Illustration

A ship without a destination will drift wherever the current takes it.

Many families are drifting because nobody has established a spiritual direction.

Strong families have someone who says:

"In this house we pray."

"In this house we honor God."

"In this house Jesus comes first."

2. Strong Families Build on God's Word

Deuteronomy 6:6-7

God instructed parents to teach His Word continually.

The Bible should not be a Sunday morning book only.

It should guide:

• Decisions
• Attitudes
• Relationships
• Finances
• Parenting

Short Story

A father gave each child a Bible on graduation day.

Years later one child said,

"Every time life got difficult, I remembered what Dad taught me from that Bible."

The greatest inheritance is not money.

It is God's Word hidden in the heart.

3. Strong Families Pray Together

Philippians 4:6

Prayer invites God's presence into the home.

Families that pray together often survive storms that destroy other homes.

Illustration

A bundle of sticks tied together is difficult to break.

One stick alone snaps easily.

Prayer ties family members together.

When one becomes weak, the others help carry the load.

4. Strong Families Learn to Forgive

Colossians 3:13

Every family will experience misunderstandings.

The difference between strong families and broken families is not perfection.

It is forgiveness.

Short Story

Two brothers stopped speaking over a small disagreement.

Years passed.

At their mother's funeral they finally embraced and wept.

One brother said:

"We lost years over something that didn't matter."

Families become stronger when grace is greater than pride.

5. Strong Families Spend Time Together

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Love requires time.

Children spell love:

T-I-M-E

Illustration

A plant needs water regularly.

One heavy watering a year will not keep it alive.

Families need regular connection:

• Meals together
• Worship together
• Conversations together
• Activities together

Relationships grow where attention flows.

6. Strong Families Protect Their Spiritual Atmosphere

Proverbs 4:23

Joshua knew that Israel was surrounded by pagan influences.

Today's families face influences through:

• Television
• Social media
• Entertainment
• Peer pressure

We must guard what enters our homes.

Illustration

If a homeowner leaves the door open all night, unwanted things may enter.

Likewise, families must guard the doors of their hearts and homes.

7. Strong Families Lead By Example

1 Corinthians 11:1

Children often do what they see more than what they hear.

Joshua did not merely tell his family to serve God.

He served God himself.

Short Story

A little boy saw his father kneeling beside his bed praying every night.

Years later he said,

"I learned how to pray by watching my father."

People may forget our sermons.

They rarely forget our example.

8. Strong Families Leave a Legacy of Faith

Psalm 145:4

"One generation shall praise thy works to another."

Joshua wanted future generations to know God.

Strong families think beyond today.

They ask:

• What values are we passing down?
• What faith are we passing down?
• What example are we passing down?

Illustration

A relay race is won when the baton is successfully passed.

Every generation must pass the baton of faith to the next generation.

Why We Must Follow Joshua's Example Today

Because:

• Families are under attack.
• Children need godly direction.
• Society cannot replace spiritual leadership.
• The church is strengthened when families are strengthened.
• Future generations depend on the decisions we make today.

Joshua understood that if families served God, Israel would remain strong.

The same principle is true today.

Strong families build strong churches.

Strong churches build strong communities.

Strong communities build strong nations.

Conclusion: Make The Choice Today

Joshua stood before the people and said:

"Choose you this day whom ye will serve."

Notice he said this day.

Not tomorrow.

Not next year.

Not when life settles down.

Today.

Every family must answer:

• Who will guide our home?
• What values will shape our home?
• Who will be Lord of our home?

Joshua's answer was clear:

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Let that become the declaration of every husband, wife, single parent, grandparent, and child in this church.

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!"

Altar Call

Perhaps your family has been struggling.

Perhaps prayer has disappeared from your home.

Perhaps relationships have been strained.

Today God is calling families back to Him.

If you want God to strengthen your family, restore your home, and establish His presence in your house, come and stand before the Lord today.

Let's make Joshua's declaration our declaration:

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Amen.

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Memorial Day Sermon

“Never Forget the Sacrifice”

Scripture Text:

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” — John 15:13 (KJV)

Introduction

Today across the United States of America, families gather around flags, cemeteries, memorial walls, and dining room tables remembering those who gave their lives in service to this nation. Memorial Day is more than cookouts, parades, and long weekends. It is a sacred reminder that freedom has always carried a price.

Somebody fought.
 Somebody bled.
 Somebody died.

Every flag flying today represents a sacrifice.
 Every folded flag handed to a grieving family represents a story.
 Every military grave marker reminds us that liberty is expensive.

But while we honor the sacrifice of soldiers, Memorial Day also gives us an opportunity to remember the greatest sacrifice ever made — the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on Calvary.

There are people who died for our country…
 But Jesus died for our souls.

The soldier gave his life so we could live free politically.
 Jesus gave His life so we could live free spiritually.

Today I want to preach a message entitled:

“Never Forget the Sacrifice”

1. Freedom Always Costs Something

Jesus said in John 15:13:

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

Freedom is never free.

Throughout history, men and women left their homes, kissed their family’s goodbye, and walked onto battlefields knowing they might never return.

Some sacrificed limbs.
 Some sacrificed dreams.
 Some sacrificed their futures.
 Some sacrificed everything.

Illustration:
 A little boy once asked his grandfather, “Why do they put flags on graves?”

The grandfather replied,
 “Because somebody under that ground gave you the right to stand above it free.”

That is powerful.

Likewise, our spiritual freedom cost Heaven something.
 Jesus left Heaven’s glory and walked onto the battlefield of sin.

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” — Romans 5:8

Jesus paid a debt He did not owe because we owed a debt we could not pay.

2. Sacrifice Should Never Be Forgotten

In the Old Testament, God constantly told Israel to remember.

Remember the Red Sea.
 Remember the wilderness.
 Remember deliverance.
 Remember what God brought you through.

Why?
 Because people forget.

Deuteronomy 8:2 says:

“And thou shalt remember all the way which the Lord thy God led thee…”

One of the dangers of modern society is forgetting the sacrifices that built the blessings we enjoy.

Some people enjoy freedom but never honor the people who fought for it.
 Some people enjoy church freedom but never honor Christ who died for it.

Memorial Day calls us to remember.

The cross also calls us to remember.

Jesus said:

“This do in remembrance of me.” — Luke 22:19

Every communion service is Heaven’s Memorial Day.

3. There Is Honor in Remembering

Honor matters.

When we remember sacrifice, we show gratitude.
 When we honor sacrifice, we show character.

The Bible says in Romans 13:7:

“Render therefore to all their dues… honour to whom honour.”

Today we honor:

• Fallen soldiers

• Gold Star families

• Veterans

• First responders

• Those who stood for righteousness

• Spiritual warriors who prayed us through

Some mothers buried sons.
 Some wives buried husbands.
 Some children grew up without fathers because somebody answered the call to serve.

They deserve honor.

Illustration:
 At Arlington Cemetery, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded day and night, even during storms and snow. Why?

Because sacrifice deserves honor.

Likewise, Jesus deserves continual honor because His sacrifice never loses its value.

4. Jesus Fought the Greatest Battle

Military battles are fought on land, sea, and air.
 But Jesus fought a battle in the spirit.

He battled:

• Sin

• Death

• Hell

• Satan

• Shame

• Rejection

At Calvary, Jesus stood alone.

The nails did not hold Him there.
 Love held Him there.

Isaiah 53:5 says:

“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.”

Every whip stripe was a sacrifice.
 Every nail was a sacrifice.
 Every drop of blood was a sacrifice.

And He did it for us.

5. We Must Live Worthy of the Sacrifice

One of the greatest dishonors is benefiting from sacrifice while living carelessly.

The Apostle Paul said:

“Ye are bought with a price…” — 1 Corinthians 6:20

If Jesus paid for us with His blood, then our lives should reflect gratitude.

We should:

• Walk in holiness

• Love one another

• Stand for truth

• Serve faithfully

• Pray continually

• Live purposefully

Illustration:
 A soldier once said,
 “I don’t fight because I hate what’s in front of me. I fight because I love what’s behind me.”

Jesus endured the cross because He loved us.

6. Some Battles Require Courage

Memorial Day reminds us that courage is not the absence of fear — it is moving forward despite fear.

Joshua 1:9 says:

“Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid…”

We need spiritual courage today.
 Courage to:

• Stand for righteousness

• Speak truth

• Raise godly families

• Defend the faith

• Keep trusting God in difficult times

The battlefield may change, but courage is still required.

7. The Resurrection Gives Us Hope Beyond the Grave

Memorial Day often reminds families of loss.
 But believers have hope beyond death.

Because Jesus rose again, death is not the end.

1 Corinthians 15:55 says:

“O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?”

For the child of God:

• The cemetery is not the end

• The grave is not permanent

• Death does not have the final word

Jesus conquered the grave.

That means every believer has eternal hope.

Conclusion

Today we salute the memory of those who paid the ultimate price for freedom.

But above all, let us never forget Jesus Christ — the Lamb of God — who gave His life for the sins of the world.

The soldier died for a nation.
 Jesus died for humanity.

The soldier gave temporary freedom.
 Jesus gives eternal freedom.

The soldier was buried in a grave.
 Jesus got up from the grave.

So today:

• Remember the fallen

• Honor sacrifice

• Appreciate freedom

• But most importantly…

Never forget the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Closing Appeal

If Christ sacrificed His life for us,
 then surely we should surrender our lives to Him.

Today Jesus is still calling:

• The broken

• The weary

• The sinner

• The backslider

• The wounded

Come to the cross.
 Come to the Savior.
 Come while there is still time.

Because the greatest memorial is not a statue…
 It is a transformed life that never forgets His sacrifice.

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Honoring the Voices of Hope

“God Has Always Raised Up Voices to Bring Deliverance”

Main Scripture

Joel 3:16 (KJV)

“The Lord also shall roar out of Zion and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the heavens and the earth shall shake but the Lord will be the hope of his people, and the strength of the children of Israel.”

Romans 10:14 - How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?  God uses human voices:  Pastors, Teachers, Mothers, Fathers, Prophets, Prayer warriors, Mentors.  Honor opens our hearts to receive what God is saying.

“Never dishonor the voice that prayed you through, preached you through, corrected you, encouraged you, and pointed you toward Jesus. Voices of hope are gifts from God worthy of honor.”

Introduction

We are living in an hour where people are surrounded by noise but starving for hope.

Every day we hear:

• Voices of fear on the news

• Voices of division in society

• Voices of depression in homes

• Voices of confusion in schools

• Voices of anger in the streets

• Voices of temptation in the world

Many people are overwhelmed because they are listening to the wrong voices.

But throughout history, whenever darkness increased, God always raised up a voice.

When Israel was in bondage, God raised Moses.
 When a nation was about to be destroyed, God raised Esther.
 When people wandered spiritually, God raised prophets.
 When the world needed salvation, God sent Jesus Christ—the greatest voice of hope the world has ever known.

The enemy fights voices because he understands the power of words.

A voice can:

• Start a revival

• Change a family

• Save a marriage

• Restore a backslider

• Bring healing to a broken spirit

• Inspire a generation

• Deliver a nation

Many people are alive spiritually today because somebody spoke life into them.

Somebody preached.
 Somebody prayed.
 Somebody encouraged them.
 Somebody refused to give up on them.

The enemy wants the church silent, but God is still looking for voices.

Isaiah 58:1 (KJV)

“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet…”

God said:

• Lift your voice

• Use your voice

• Declare My Word

• Speak life

• Warn the people

• Encourage the broken

Illustration

After terrible hurricanes, rescue workers often listen carefully through the rubble for one thing—a voice.

As long as somebody still has a voice, there is still hope they can be rescued.

Likewise, God sends voices into broken situations because as long as God is speaking, hope is still alive.

“Now a certain woman had a flow of blood for twelve years, and had suffered many things from many physicians. She had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse. For she said, “If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well.” Immediately the fountain of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of the affliction.”

Mark 5:25-26, 28-29

1. Moses — A Voice That Confronted Bondage

Exodus 5:1 (KJV)

“Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Let my people go…”

Israel had cried for over 400 years under Egyptian slavery.

But when the time of deliverance arrived, God did not merely send miracles first—He sent a voice.

Moses stood before Pharaoh and declared the Word of God.

Moses teaches us:

A voice filled with God’s authority can confront systems of bondage.

There are people today:

• Bound by addiction

• Bound by fear

• Bound by generational curses

• Bound by sin

But God still raises voices to declare:

“Let My people go!”

Illustration

One match can light an entire dark room.
 One God-anointed voice can change an entire atmosphere.

2. Esther — A Voice That Refused to Stay Silent

Esther 4:14 (KJV)

“And who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”

Esther was comfortable in the palace, but her people were in danger.

She could have protected herself and remained silent.

But she understood:
 Silence in the wrong moment can destroy lives.

Voices of hope speak when others are afraid.

God is still looking for people willing to stand up:

• For righteousness

• For truth

• For justice

• For holiness

Hope Point

Sometimes your assignment is not to fit in—but to speak up.

3. David — A Voice That Encouraged Himself

Psalm 27:13 (KJV)

“I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.”

David knew betrayal, loneliness, warfare, and heartbreak.

Yet David kept singing.
 He kept worshipping.
 He kept speaking hope.

Some of the greatest voices of hope are born in seasons of pain.

Anybody can praise God when life is easy.
 But it takes spiritual maturity to praise Him while tears are running down your face.

Psalm 42:11 (KJV)

“Why art thou cast down, O my soul?... hope thou in God…”

Lesson

Sometimes you must preach to yourself before you can preach to anybody else.

4. Ezekiel — A Voice That Spoke to Dry Bones

Ezekiel 37:4-5 (KJV)

“Again he said unto me, Prophesy upon these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear the word of the Lord.
 Thus saith the Lord God unto these bones; Behold, I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live.”

Ezekiel stood in a valley full of dry bones.

The bones represented:

• Dead hopes

• Dead dreams

• Dead faith

• Dead nations

• Dead situations

God asked:

Ezekiel 37:3

“Son of man, can these bones live?”

Then God told Ezekiel:

“Prophesy!”

Notice this:
 The bones did not move until the voice spoke.

Some situations are waiting on a God-filled voice.

Families can live again.
 Churches can live again.
 Communities can live again.
 Spiritual fire can live again.

Illustration

A battery that is dead cannot recharge itself—it needs an outside source of power.

Some people sitting in church today feel spiritually drained, but God sent a voice to recharge their faith.

5. John the Baptist — A Voice Crying in the Wilderness

Matthew 3:3 (KJV)

“The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord…”

John’s assignment was to prepare people for Jesus.

He preached repentance boldly.

Voices of hope do not merely entertain people—they prepare people for God.

Real hope is not found in money, popularity, or politics.

Real hope is found in Jesus Christ.

6. Jesus Christ — The Greatest Voice of Hope

John 6:63 (KJV)

“The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.”

Jesus spoke:

• Peace to storms

• Healing to sickness

• Deliverance to the bound

• Forgiveness to sinners

• Resurrection to the dead

John 11:43 (KJV)

“Lazarus, come forth.”

One voice broke the power of death.

Hope Point

If Jesus can call Lazarus out, He can call you out too:

• Out of depression

• Out of addiction

• Out of despair

• Out of darkness

7. Voices of Hope Outside the Bible

God has also raised powerful voices throughout history.

Martin Luther King Jr. — A Voice for Justice

He spoke hope during times of hatred and segregation.

His words inspired millions to believe change was possible.

Lesson

One courageous voice can challenge injustice.

Harriet Tubman — A Voice Leading People to Freedom

She risked her life repeatedly to guide enslaved people to freedom.

Her voice brought direction in the darkness.

Hope Point

People lost in darkness need somebody who knows the way out.

Billy Graham — A Voice Calling the World to Christ

For decades he preached salvation around the world.

Millions heard the Gospel through his voice.

Lesson

The greatest message of hope is salvation through Jesus Christ.

8. God Wants Your Voice to Become a Voice of Hope

Proverbs 18:21 (KJV)

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue…”

Your voice matters.

You may never stand before thousands, but your words still carry power.

You can:

• Pray for somebody

• Encourage somebody

• Teach somebody

• Witness to somebody

• Lift somebody

• Restore somebody

Somebody near you is barely hanging on emotionally and spiritually.

Your words may become the very thing God uses to save them.

Things Every Voice of Hope Must Do

A. Speak Truth

Not compromise.

B. Speak Life

Not constant negativity.

C. Speak Faith

Not fear.

D. Speak Healing

Not destruction.

E. Point People Toward Christ

Jesus is the source of hope.

Powerful Illustration

A man once visited a hospital where a l

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SERMON TITLE: Rise, Shine, and Give God the Glory

Theme Scripture

Isaiah 60:1 (NKJV)
"Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you."

INTRODUCTION

God is speaking a threefold command to His people:

• Rise – come out of what has held you down
• Shine – let His light be seen in you
• Give God the Glory – point everything back to Him

Too many believers are saved but still sitting… gifted but still hiding… blessed but still silent.

But today God is saying:
“Get up, light up, and lift Me up!”

POINT 1: RISE – GOD CALLS PEOPLE OUT OF THEIR LOWEST PLACES

Ephesians 5:14 (NKJV)
"Awake, you who sleep, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light."

Biblical Example: Lazarus (John 11:43–44)

• He was dead
• He was bound
• He was buried

But when Jesus called him, he rose!

👉 Lesson: It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been down—when God calls, you can get up!

POINT 2: RISING REQUIRES OBEDIENCE

God gives the command—but you must respond.

Biblical Example: The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:17–20)

• He “came to himself”
• He got up
• He went back to the Father

👉 He didn’t stay in the pigpen—he rose!

Key Thought

You can’t stay stuck and still answer God’s call.

POINT 3: SHINE – GOD’S PEOPLE REFLECT HIS LIGHT

Matthew 5:16 (NKJV)
"Let your light so shine before men..."

Biblical Example: Moses (Exodus 34:29–30)

• After being in God’s presence
• His face shined so bright people saw it

👉 He didn’t produce the light—he reflected God’s glory!

Illustration

Just like the moon reflects the sun—
we reflect the Son (Jesus Christ).

POINT 4: YOU CAN SHINE EVEN IN DARK PLACES

Isaiah 60:2 (NKJV)
"Darkness shall cover the earth… but the Lord will arise over you."

Biblical Example: Daniel (Daniel 6)

• Surrounded by corruption
• Thrown into the lion’s den
• But his faith made him shine

👉 Even in darkness, God’s people stand out!

POINT 5: YOUR SHINING WILL DRAW OTHERS

Biblical Example: The Early Church (Acts 2:47)

• They lived right
• They praised God
• And people were drawn to them daily

👉 When you shine, others will come to the light!

POINT 6: GIVE GOD THE GLORY – DON’T TAKE CREDIT

Psalm 115:1 (NKJV)
"Not unto us, O Lord… but to Your name give glory."

Biblical Example: The Man Born Blind (John 9:24–25)

They questioned him, but he said:

"One thing I know: that though I was blind, now I see."

👉 He didn’t glorify himself—he pointed to Jesus!

POINT 7: WHEN YOU GIVE GOD GLORY, HE WILL LIFT YOU HIGHER

Biblical Example: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3:28–30)

• They stood for God
• God delivered them from the fire
• And the king gave glory to God

👉 Their rising caused God to be glorified publicly!

POINT 8: WARNING – DON’T STEAL GOD’S GLORY

Biblical Example: Herod (Acts 12:21–23)

• He accepted praise as a god
• Didn’t give glory to God
• Was struck down immediately

👉 When you take God’s glory, you invite judgment.

POINT 9: WHEN YOU RISE AND SHINE, YOUR LIFE BECOMES A TESTIMONY

Biblical Example: Paul (Acts 9)

• Once persecuted the church
• Encountered Jesus
• Rose up and began preaching<

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Sermon Title:

The Power of the Three: Jesus’ Death, Burial, and Resurrection

Key Text:
📖 1 Corinthians 15:3–4 (NKJV)
“…that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.”

Introduction

There is something powerful about the number three.

• A three-strand cord is not easily broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12) - 
• Jonah was in the fish three days
• Jesus rose on the third day
• Daniel prayed three times a day 
• Satan tempts us in three way lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, Pride of life 
• Peter denied Jesus three times 
• Three parts of Man 
•  

God is saying:
👉 When I do something in threes, I’m finishing it, confirming it, and empowering it.

But the greatest “three” in history is:
Death. Burial. Resurrection.

Without all three… there is no gospel.

Key Point 1: The Death Was Necessary (Payment for Sin)

📖 Isaiah 53:5 - But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

Jesus didn’t die as a victim—He died as a substitute.

Illustration:

A man was sentenced to death, but someone stepped forward and said,
“I’ll take his place.”
The judge accepted it—the guilty man walked free.

👉 That’s what Jesus did for us.

Jesus died by crucifixion, but medically and physically, His death was caused by a combination of:

👉 Extreme blood loss (hypovolemic shock)
👉 Asphyxiation (inability to breathe)
👉 Physical trauma and exhaustion

And ultimately…

👉 He willingly gave up His life

📖 John 19:30
“He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.”

Severe Beating and Scourging

📖 Matthew 27:26

Jesus was scourged with a Roman whip (cat-o’-nine-tails):

• Embedded with bone and metal
• Tore skin, muscle, possibly exposed organs

👉 This alone caused massive blood loss.

Illustration

Imagine someone already losing large amounts of blood before even reaching the place of execution.

Key Point 2: The Death Was Personal

📖 Romans 5:8 

He didn’t just die for the world—He died for you.

Short Story:

A preacher once said,
“If you were the only person on earth, Jesus still would have gone to the cross.”

👉 This wasn’t general—it was intentional.

👉 “The nails didn’t kill Him…
👉 The cross didn’t kill Him…
👉 The Romans didn’t kill Him…”

“MY SIN PUT HIM THERE…
BUT HIS LOVE KEPT HIM THERE!”

Key Point 3: The Burial Proved He Was Really Dead

📖 Matthew 27:59–60 . And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,

 And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.

The burial shuts down every argument that Jesus just “passed out.”

Illustration:

You don’t bury people who are alive.
The burial was Heaven’s way of saying:
👉 The sacrifice is complete.

Key Point 4: The Burial Represents Separation

Jesus was placed in a tomb—cut off, sealed, and silent.

Spiritual Insight:

Sometimes God will allow things in your life to be “buried.”

• Dreams buried
• Opportunities buried
• Relationships buried

👉 But burial is not the end—it’s preparation.

Key Point 5: The Resu

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Kingdom Teaching 03/25/26  www.facebook/com/owcoc 7pm. 

From my Book Word up!  Chapter Three – It’s Time to Move!

Chapter 3: Now Word – It’s Time to Move!

Deuteronomy 1:6 –

"The Lord our God spoke unto us in Horeb, saying, ‘Ye have dwelt long enough in this mount.’"

Deuteronomy 2:3 –

"And the Lord spoke unto me, saying, ‘Ye have compassed this mountain long enough: turn you northward.’"

Horeb, the mountain range where Mount Sinai was located, means "desolate place." The Israelites had camped there for about a year, but God called them to break camp and move forward.

The same call applies to us today. We must not get stuck in the past, in fear, or in places that God never intended for us to remain.

🚨 Are you stuck in a cycle that is keeping you from your Promised Land?

🔹 Stuck in a job with no future? 🔹 Stuck in a relationship going nowhere? ("Once I get a divorce, we’ll get married." He told you that five years ago!) 🔹 Stuck in a business partnership with no vision?

The Israelites had the promise of a new land—a future of abundance. But before they could possess it, they had to move.

📖 Numbers 23:19 – "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? Or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?"

Now is the Time to Go Where God Leads You

📖 Genesis 12:1-3 – "Now the Lord had said unto Abram, ‘Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will show thee... and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing.’"

When God says MOVE, obedience leads to blessing. Places matter—especially when God tells you to go.

📌 Elijah was sent to Zarephath, where a widow sustained him. (1 Kings 17:9) 📌 Jesus told His disciples to prepare the Passover in an "upper room." (Mark 14:15) 📌 The Holy Spirit was poured out in Jerusalem, as Jesus instructed. (Acts 1:4-5) 📌 Naaman had to dip in the Jordan seven times to be healed. (2 Kings 5:10)

🚀 You will succeed somewhere, but you will not succeed everywhere.

A sinner who understands decision-making will succeed faster than a Christian who is waiting for a miracle but never takes action.

📖 The Bible is a book about decisions: ✅ What you choose to focus on. ✅ What offenses you choose to forgive. ✅ Where you invest your time, energy, and faith. ✅ Whose opinions you trust.

Key Point: Never stay where God has not assigned you!

🚨 If you do, your weakness will flourish, and your strength will die.

A fish out of water will die, but once it is placed back in the water, its movement becomes electrifying, and its true potential is revealed.

A Higher Level of Thinking

📖 Isaiah 43:19 – "Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?"

When God is doing something new in your life, you must elevate your thinking.

🔥 Dream Big!

Many people get trapped in small thinking because they believe that nothing new can happen. Solomon, in his backslidden state, said:

📖 Ecclesiastes 1:9 – "There is nothing new under the sun."

But the prophet Jeremiah said otherwise:

📖 Lamentations 3:22-23 – "It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness."

Every day is a fresh start!

The 5 Stages

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“There Shall Be Glory After This”

📖 Main Text: Romans 8:18

“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”

📖 Supporting Texts:

• 1 Peter 5:10 - And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
• Luke 24:26 - Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?"
• 2 Corinthians 4:17- For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,

We just talked about Persecution Before Resurrection…
We saw the betrayal… the beating… the burden… the blood…

But can I tell you something this morning?

👉 The story doesn’t end at the cross!

Because after the suffering…
After the pain…
After the humiliation…

💥 There shall be GLORY after this!

🔑 KEY POINT 1:

Suffering Is Temporary—Glory Is Eternal

📖 2 Corinthians 4:17

“For our light affliction… is but for a moment…”

🧠 Truth:

What you’re going through has an expiration date.

🪶 Illustration:

A storm that feels endless—but eventually passes.

📚 Short Story:

A woman sat through a long, turbulent flight gripping her seat in fear. When it landed, she said, “I thought it would never end.”
The pilot said, “Storms don’t last forever—we just had to fly through it.”

👉 Punch:
You’re not stuck—you’re just going through!

🔑 KEY POINT 2:

God Uses Pain to Produce Purpose

📖 Luke 24:26

“Ought not Christ to have suffered these things…?”

🧠 Truth:

Your pain is not pointless—it’s purposeful.

🪶 Illustration:

Gold being refined in fire.

📚 Short Story:

A sculptor chips away at a block of marble. Someone asked, “Why are you damaging it?”
He replied, “I’m not damaging it—I’m revealing what’s inside.”

👉 Punch:
God is not destroying you—He’s developing you.

🔑 KEY POINT 3:

Delay Does Not Mean Denial

📖 John 20:1 (The stone wasn’t moved immediately)

🧠 Truth:

Just because it hasn’t happened yet doesn’t mean it won’t happen.

🪶 Illustration:

Waiting for the sun to rise after a long night.

📚 Short Story:

A man planted seeds and saw nothing for weeks. He almost gave up—but beneath the surface, growth was happening.

👉 Punch:
What you don’t see, God is still working on.

🔑 KEY POINT 4:

Your Darkest Moment Precedes Your Breakthrough

📖 Matthew 27:45

“There was darkness over all the land…”

🧠 Truth:

Darkness is often a sign that something is about to shift.

🪶 Illustration:

The darkest hour is just before dawn.

📚 Short Story:

A young man quit his job, lost his savings, and felt like everything collapsed—only to discover later it pushed him into his true calling.

👉 Punch:
Don’t judge your life in the dark—morning is coming!

🔑 KEY POINT 5:

God Will Turn Your Shame into Glory

📖 Hebrews 12:2

“Despising the shame…”

🧠 Truth:

What embarrassed you will eventually elevate you.

🪶 Illustration:

A caterpillar in an ugly cocoon becoming a butterfly.

📚 Short Story:

A student who struggled academically was laughed at—but later became a teacher inspiring others.

👉 Punch:
The same thing that tried to shame you

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Theme:  The Road to the Cross

“Persecution Before Resurrection”

📖 Main Text: Isaiah 53:3–7 - 3. He is despised and rejected by men, A Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.  Surely He has borne our griefs And carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted.  But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.  All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way; And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.

 He was oppressed and He was afflicted, Yet He opened not His mouth; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, And as a sheep before its shearers is silent, So He opened not His mouth.

📖 Focus Thought: You cannot get to resurrection power without first going through persecution pressure.

🎯 INTRODUCTION

Before there was an empty tomb…
Before there was a rolled-away stone…
Before there was a “He is Risen”…

👉 There was suffering.
There was rejection.
There was persecution.

Jesus didn’t just die…
He went through something to get there.
If you want resurrection in your life, you must understand the road that leads to it.

🔑 KEY POINT 1:

He Was Betrayed by a Friend

📖 Luke 22:47–48

“Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?”

🧠 Truth:

The first pain Jesus felt was not physical—it was relational.

🪶 Illustration:

A handshake that hides betrayal.

📚 Short Story:

A man gave his best friend a job in his company. Years later, that same friend stole clients and started a competing business.
He said, “I could handle losing money—but losing trust broke me.”

👉 Punch:
Sometimes your greatest pain comes from the people closest to you

🔑 KEY POINT 2:

He Was Abandoned by His Disciples

📖 Matthew 26:56

“Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.”

🧠 Truth:

People who shouted with you may not suffer with you.

🪶 Illustration:

Cheering fans disappear when the team starts losing.

📚 Short Story:

A young athlete had many friends when he was winning—but after an injury, nobody called.
He learned: loyalty is revealed in hardship.

👉 Punch:
Don’t be surprised when your circle gets smaller on the road to purpose.

🔑 KEY POINT 3:

He Was Denied by Peter

📖 Luke 22:61

🧠 Truth:

Even strong believers can fail under pressure.

🪶 Illustration:

A strong bridge collapsing under unexpected weight.

📚 Short Story:

A man boldly declared he would never quit his faith—but when faced with ridicule at work, he stayed silent. Later he wept and repented.

👉 Punch:
Failure is not final when God still has purpose for you.

🔑 KEY POINT 4:

He Was Mocked and Humiliated

📖 Luke 22:63–65

They mocked Him… blindfolded Him… struck Him.

🧠 Truth:

The enemy will try to shame you before God elevates you.

🪶 Illustration:

A king forced to wear rags before his coronation.

📚 Short Story:

A young preacher was laughed at for his calling. Years later, those same people came to hear him preach.

👉 Punch:
Don’t let mockery make you quit your mission.

🔑 KEY POINT 5:

He Was Falsely Accused

📖 Mark 14:55–59

🧠 Truth:

Truth doesn’t always pro

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Sermon Title: “Don’t Hang Up Your Harp”

Text: Psalm 137:1–4
Key Verse: Psalm 137:2 — 1. By the rivers of Babylon, There we sat down, yea, we wept When we remembered Zion.

We hung our harps Upon the willows in the midst of it. For there those who carried us away captive asked of us a song, And those who plundered us requested mirth, Saying, “Sing us one of the songs of Zion!”

 How shall we sing the Lord’s song In a foreign land?

Introduction

Psalm 137 records one of the saddest moments in Israel’s history. The people of God had been taken captive to Babylon after Jerusalem was destroyed. The temple was gone, their homeland was gone, and their freedom was gone.

The psalmist says:

“By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion.”

These were people who once sang songs of praise in the temple courts. But now they were sitting by a foreign river in a strange land. Instead of singing songs of joy, they were crying tears of sorrow.

And the Bible says something very powerful:

“We hanged our harps upon the willows.”

The harp was their instrument of praise, their symbol of worship. But in their sorrow, they hung it up.

And if we are honest, many believers today have done the same thing.

• Some have hung up their harp because of disappointment.
• Some have hung up their harp because of injustice.
• Some have hung up their harp because of grief or betrayal.

But today God sent me with a word:

Don’t hang up your harp.

1. Sometimes Life Places You in Babylon

Babylon represents a season of hardship, confusion, or captivity.

Israel didn’t plan to be in Babylon. They didn’t want to be there. But life placed them there.

And sometimes life puts us in situations we didn’t expect.

• Unexpected sickness
• Family struggles
• Financial pressure
• Changes in our nation and society
• People doing things we never thought we would see

It can make you feel like:

“Lord, how did I end up here?”

That’s what the Israelites felt.

But notice something important:

Even though they were in Babylon, God had not abandoned them.

God was still with them.

Psalm 34:18 says:

“The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart.”

Just because you are in Babylon does not mean God has left you.

2. Pain Can Tempt You to Hang Up Your Harp

The Bible says:

“We hanged our harps upon the willows.”

The harp represented praise, worship, and joy.

But their grief was so heavy that they stopped singing.

Have you ever been there?

When pain makes you say:

• “I don’t feel like praying.”
• “I don’t feel like worshiping.”
• “I don’t feel like going to church.”

The enemy loves when believers hang up their harp.

Because when praise stops:

• Faith begins to weaken
• Hope begins to fade
• The enemy begins to whisper lies

But the Bible teaches us something powerful.

Paul and Silas were in prison in Acts 16.

They had been beaten. Their backs were bleeding. Their feet were in chains.

But instead of hanging up their harp, the Bible says:

“At midnight Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises unto God.”

And when they praised God in prison, the prison doors opened.

Sometimes your breakthrough is connected to your praise.

3. The Enemy Wants to Silence Your Song

In verse 3 the captors said:

“Sing us one of the songs of Zion.”

They were mocking them.

The enemy always tries to silence the worship of God’s people

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