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Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – Conquering Faith

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Charles Stanley

1 Samuel 17:1-37

David, the shepherd boy, faced Goliath, the Philistine giant. By trusting in God’s power to deliver, David was victorious over his seemingly invincible opponent. We, too, will face trials that are bigger than we are. The Lord wants to build conquering faith in us so that we, like David, can overcome. What are the components of such faith?

• Godly motivation. David’s desire was to defend his people and God’s name. We must examine our rationale to be certain it is Christ-centered, not self-focused.

• Recognition of the battle’s nature. In the lives of born-again believers, every single incident is a spiritual matter. David’s struggle in the physical realm was against Goliath, but the real battle was spiritual (Eph. 6:12).

• Memory of previous victories. David’s confidence was not based on what was happening right then. Instead, he recalled what the Lord had done before: helping him fight off lions and bears. Imagine a film that highlights all the moments when God provided you with strength and stamina. Replay it until you are ready for the fight.

• Rejection of ungodly counsel. David was certain of God’s purpose for him, so he refused to listen to his brother’s accusations of impure motives. He also rejected King Saul’s assessment of his youthfulness. Instead, the young shepherd boy inclined his ear to hear from the Lord and any counselors He might send.

What “Goliath” is standing before you? Remember that in Christ, we can be overcomers (1 John 5:4).

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Presidential Prayer Team – Crying Wolf by CP

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A shepherd boy amused himself by crying wolf and watching the townspeople scurry in defense of their sheep. But it got old after awhile and when a wolf really did come, they ignored him. Most people are aware of Aesop’s fable, but unaware of something similarly unfolding in America and the world.

Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour. Matthew 25:13

As today’s verse clearly states, no one knows the hour of the coming of Christ, but through the years people have thought otherwise: Edgar C. Whisenant’s “Eighty-Eight Reasons…,” speculation about the Mayan calendar, and other false prophecies prove it. The result is apathy. In the last days, people will say, “Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.” (II Peter 3:4)

Jesus didn’t say when He was returning, but He did say to be ready. And the parable in Matthew 25 admonishes people to be about doing His will. You may wonder if your daily routine has anything to do with God’s plan. When in doubt, obey the Lord’s greatest commandments: love God and love others. Then be watchful for the people in your life and for this nation in prayer (Colossians 4:2).

Recommended Reading: Matthew 25:31-46