When the Going Gets Tough

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, getting that sermon for Sunday is tough (really tough).  I’ve been there and done that!

While working through my prayer journal this morning I noticed a sermon outline for a sermon I was privileged to preach to my Sunday night attendees at the great Fort Mill Church of God on November 17, 2013.  It wasn’t a bad sermon, if I must say so myself.  Maybe it will work for you this weekend, or maybe it’s a sermon you need for yourself.

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Title: When the Going Gets Tough

Text: 1 Corinthians 10:13

Thesis: Tough times are a normal part of life-even for Christians.  This is not the end, you are not a failure, and God is not mad at you, God is with you.  And as a result, it is what you do during those tough times that makes the difference as to whether you come through them better or bitter.

Outline:

1. When the going gets tough—keep running anyway (life happens, things overtake us but they will not stay with us; we will get beyond them eventually)
2. Don’t run alone (what we are running through is “common to man”), (a) include God in the process–he can even handle the complaints and “whining” (b) include trusted friends who will support you and pray with you (c) stay involved in the fellowship of believers, i.e. keep going to church!
3. Trust God—by bragging on him (praise // “but God is faithful”)
4. Trust the process (God’s got a plan) by bearing your trial faithfully until it is over (“but with the temptation…will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it”)

• Conclusion: If you will do this, you will come through your tough times better, not bitter.  And while you’re going through them you will grow and inspire others and after you’ve come through them you will be a better person (character/sanctification) and be better equipped to help others through their tough times (ministry/witnessing)