Scaling Walls 1-22-17
{Overcome obstacles through God}
“In Your strength I can crush an army;
with my God I can scale any wall.”
[2 Samuel 22:30, Psalm 18:29]
“Vault the highest fences” [MSG]
David wrote this Psalm. He killed a lion & bear (see 1 Samuel 17:34-36). He killed many troops. He understood obstacles. He overcame obstacles.
Romans 5:3– We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance.
James 1:2– Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it anopportunity for great joy.
David strengthened himself in the LORDwhen people wanted to stone him (see 1 Samuel 30:6).
Recognize you are weak. Only then can you humbly accept God’s power.
“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” (see 2 Corinthians 12:8-10)
Recognize He gives you the strength to complete all He has called you to do for His purpose. (Philippians 4:13)
God gave us His word to equip us [2 Timothy 3:16-17]
God gave us Holy Spirit to help, to encourage, and to reveal His Truth [John 14:25-27]
Ephesians 6:10– Be strong in the Lordand in His mighty power.
When faced with obstacles, we must be strong in the LORD and recognize…
NOT BY MIGHT NOR BY POWER, BUT BY MY SPIRIT [Zechariah 4:6]
Zerubbabel faces overwhelming task of rebuilding Temple
Oil – God’s Spirit
2 Olive Branches – Zerubbabel the ruler, Joshua the priest
Do not despise the small beginnings (Zechariah 4:10) – the work is just beginning
GREATEST OBSTACLE to accomplishing God’s work – SIN
Flying Scroll & Woman in Basket are a challenge to Israelites to repent (see Zechariah 5:1-11)
The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. – MLK
In 1985, Super Mario Bros arrived on the scene. Life forever changed.
Buzzy Beetleand Koopa Troopa– jump on shell & toss them to help you; shell was an obstacle that helped your progress in the game
- Obstacles in your life do not hinder your relationship with God; they grow your relationship with God and increase your faith.
- PRAISE GOD FOR THE OBSTACLES!! They are opportunities to grow deeper in Christ.
He has trusted you with the obstacles. These obstacles will bring you closer to Him and bring Him the greatest glory.
- If you are suffering, praise Him for it.
- If you are facing mountains before you, thank Him for it.
Tania Gutekunst 