2020.09.20 - Sticking With God Because He Is Stuck To You!

Hebrews 12:1 12 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us The Christian life is not a stroll through the park. Nor is it a 100-yard dash. It is a long-distance marathon, and we are called to run with perseverance the race marked out for us. I) As a Christian God does not promise you an easy life A) We live in a fallen world. Romans 8:18-21 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. 19 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. 20 For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, 21 Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. B) We should expect trials John 16:33; Acts 14:21-22 “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) 21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, 22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. (Acts 14:21-22) II) As a Christian God does promise to be with you "God never promise a smooth flight just a safe landing". (Howard Jones) A) Jesus gives you his peace. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your earts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7) B) Jesus gives you His presence "lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” (Matthew 28:20)