Ambitious Mothers: Faith, Persistence, and Praise
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, I want to talk about the importance of being an ambitious mother. The Bible is full of examples of ambitious mothers who, despite their circumstances, remained steadfast in their faith and dedication to their families. One such example is Susanna Wesley, who lived in the late 1600s. Despite the challenges she faced, including the loss of nine of her 19 children and a husband who struggled to succeed as a pastor, she remained committed to raising her children in the ways of the Lord. Her dedication paid off, as two of her children, John and Charles Wesley, went on to have a significant impact on the Christian faith. Susanna's story teaches us the importance of persistence and dedication, no matter the obstacles we face. [01:17]
Another example of an ambitious mother is Eve. Despite being the first to sin, Eve's story didn't end in failure. She experienced the joy of childbirth with Cain and Abel, but also the heartache of losing Abel. However, God blessed her with another son, Seth, who became the righteous seed through which the lineage of Jesus Christ would come. Eve's story reminds us that no matter our past mistakes, God can restore and use us for His glory. [05:01]
Leah is another example of an ambitious mother. Despite being unloved by her husband Jacob, Leah remained faithful to God. She named her children with meanings that reflected her hope and faith. Her first son, Reuben, meant "seeing," as she believed God had seen her affliction. Her second son, Simeon, meant "hearing," as she believed God had heard her prayers. Her third son, Levi, meant "joined," reflecting her hope that her husband would finally love her. However, it was her fourth son, Judah, whose name meant "praise," that marked a turning point. Leah decided to focus on praising God rather than seeking her husband's approval. This act of faith led to Judah becoming the most prominent tribe in Israel, from which Jesus Christ would come. Leah's story teaches us the importance of putting God first in our lives. [07:32]
The story of the Shunammite woman in 2 Kings 4 is another powerful example. Despite having everything she needed, she lacked a child. When the prophet Elisha visited her, she showed him great hospitality. In return, Elisha prophesied that she would have a son. When her son later died, she didn't accept this as the end. Instead, she sought out Elisha, demonstrating her faith and persistence. Her story teaches us the power of perception and persistence. [17:24]
Finally, I want to emphasize the importance of praise. Praise is not just an act of worship; it is a powerful weapon against the enemy. When the Israelites were in the wilderness, the tribe of Judah always pitched their tents at the door of the tabernacle, symbolizing that praise is the gateway to God's presence. No matter what we face, we must always be ready to praise God. This is especially important for mothers, as their praise can open doors of blessing for their families. [12:36]
### Key Takeaways
1. Persistence in Faith: Susanna Wesley's story teaches us the importance of persistence and dedication in raising our children in the ways of the Lord. Despite numerous challenges, she remained steadfast, and her children went on to have a significant impact on the Christian faith. This reminds us that our efforts, no matter how small they seem, can have lasting effects. [01:17]
2. Redemption and Restoration: Eve's story is a powerful reminder that no matter our past mistakes, God can restore and use us for His glory. Despite being the first to sin, Eve became the mother of all living and the ancestor of Jesus Christ. This teaches us that our failures do not define us; God's grace does. [05:01]
3. Putting God First: Leah's story emphasizes the importance of putting God first in our lives. Despite being unloved by her husband, Leah chose to focus on praising God. This act of faith led to significant blessings, including the birth of the tribe of Judah, from which Jesus Christ would come. When we prioritize God, He takes care of our needs. [07:32]
4. Power of Perception and Persistence: The Shunammite woman's story in 2 Kings 4 highlights the power of perception and persistence. She recognized Elisha as a man of God and showed him great hospitality. When her son died, she didn't accept it as the end but sought out Elisha, demonstrating her faith. This teaches us to be persistent in our faith and to perceive God's presence in our lives. [17:24]
5. The Power of Praise: Praise is a powerful weapon against the enemy. The tribe of Judah always pitched their tents at the door of the tabernacle, symbolizing that praise is the gateway to God's presence. No matter what we face, we must always be ready to praise God. This is especially important for mothers, as their praise can open doors of blessing for their families. [12:36]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [01:17] - Susanna Wesley's Persistence
3. [05:01] - Eve's Redemption
4. [07:32] - Leah's Faithfulness
5. [12:36] - The Power of Praise
6. [17:24] - The Shunammite Woman's Perception and Persistence
7. [38:36] - Final Blessing and Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 2 Kings 4:8-37 - The story of the Shunammite woman and Elisha.
2. Genesis 29:31-35 - The story of Leah and the birth of her sons.
3. Genesis 4:1-26 - The story of Eve, Cain, Abel, and Seth.
#### Observation Questions
1. What challenges did Susanna Wesley face, and how did she remain persistent in her faith? [01:17]
2. How did Eve's story demonstrate God's ability to restore and use someone despite their past mistakes? [05:01]
3. What was the significance of the names Leah gave to her sons, and how did they reflect her faith journey? [07:32]
4. How did the Shunammite woman demonstrate her faith and persistence when her son died? [17:24]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Susanna Wesley's story illustrate the importance of persistence and dedication in raising children in the ways of the Lord? [01:17]
2. In what ways does Eve's story show that our failures do not define us, but rather God's grace does? [05:01]
3. What can we learn from Leah's decision to focus on praising God rather than seeking her husband's approval? [07:32]
4. How does the Shunammite woman's story in 2 Kings 4 highlight the power of perception and persistence in our faith journey? [17:24]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you faced significant challenges in your life. How did you remain persistent in your faith, similar to Susanna Wesley? [01:17]
2. Have you ever felt defined by your past mistakes like Eve? How can you embrace God's grace and allow Him to restore and use you for His glory? [05:01]
3. Leah named her fourth son Judah, meaning "praise," and decided to focus on God. Is there an area in your life where you need to shift your focus from seeking approval to praising God? [07:32]
4. The Shunammite woman showed great hospitality and faith when she sought out Elisha. How can you demonstrate similar faith and persistence in your current circumstances? [17:24]
5. Praise is described as a powerful weapon against the enemy. How can you incorporate more praise into your daily life, especially during difficult times? [12:36]
6. The sermon emphasized the importance of perception. How can you improve your perception to better recognize God's presence and guidance in your life? [17:24]
7. Think of a specific challenge you are currently facing. What steps can you take to remain persistent and faithful, trusting that God will provide and bless you as He did for the Shunammite woman? [17:24]
Devotional
Day 1: Persistence in Faith
Susanna Wesley's story is a powerful testament to the importance of persistence and dedication in raising children in the ways of the Lord. Despite facing numerous challenges, including the loss of nine of her 19 children and a husband who struggled to succeed as a pastor, Susanna remained steadfast in her faith and commitment to her family. Her unwavering dedication paid off, as two of her children, John and Charles Wesley, went on to have a significant impact on the Christian faith. This reminds us that our efforts, no matter how small they seem, can have lasting effects. Susanna's story encourages us to remain persistent in our faith and dedication, trusting that God will use our efforts for His glory. [01:17]
Hebrews 10:36 (ESV): "For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised."
Reflection: Think of a challenging situation in your life where you feel like giving up. How can you remain persistent in your faith and dedication, trusting that God will use your efforts for His glory?
Day 2: Redemption and Restoration
Eve's story is a powerful reminder that no matter our past mistakes, God can restore and use us for His glory. Despite being the first to sin, Eve became the mother of all living and the ancestor of Jesus Christ. She experienced the joy of childbirth with Cain and Abel, but also the heartache of losing Abel. However, God blessed her with another son, Seth, who became the righteous seed through which the lineage of Jesus Christ would come. This teaches us that our failures do not define us; God's grace does. Eve's story encourages us to trust in God's ability to redeem and restore us, no matter our past mistakes. [05:01]
Isaiah 61:3 (ESV): "To grant to those who mourn in Zion—to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified."
Reflection: Reflect on a past mistake or failure that you feel defines you. How can you trust in God's ability to redeem and restore you, allowing His grace to define your identity instead?
Day 3: Putting God First
Leah's story emphasizes the importance of putting God first in our lives. Despite being unloved by her husband Jacob, Leah remained faithful to God. She named her children with meanings that reflected her hope and faith. Her first son, Reuben, meant "seeing," as she believed God had seen her affliction. Her second son, Simeon, meant "hearing," as she believed God had heard her prayers. Her third son, Levi, meant "joined," reflecting her hope that her husband would finally love her. However, it was her fourth son, Judah, whose name meant "praise," that marked a turning point. Leah decided to focus on praising God rather than seeking her husband's approval. This act of faith led to Judah becoming the most prominent tribe in Israel, from which Jesus Christ would come. Leah's story teaches us the importance of prioritizing God in our lives, trusting that He will take care of our needs. [07:32]
Matthew 6:33 (ESV): "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
Reflection: In what areas of your life are you seeking approval from others instead of putting God first? How can you shift your focus to prioritize God and trust that He will take care of your needs?
Day 4: Power of Perception and Persistence
The Shunammite woman's story in 2 Kings 4 highlights the power of perception and persistence. Despite having everything she needed, she lacked a child. When the prophet Elisha visited her, she showed him great hospitality. In return, Elisha prophesied that she would have a son. When her son later died, she didn't accept this as the end. Instead, she sought out Elisha, demonstrating her faith and persistence. Her story teaches us to be persistent in our faith and to perceive God's presence in our lives, even in difficult circumstances. [17:24]
2 Kings 4:26 (ESV): "Run at once to meet her and say to her, ‘Is all well with you? Is all well with your husband? Is all well with the child?’ And she answered, ‘All is well.’"
Reflection: Think of a situation where you feel like giving up. How can you demonstrate persistence in your faith and perceive God's presence in your life, even in difficult circumstances?
Day 5: The Power of Praise
Praise is a powerful weapon against the enemy. The tribe of Judah always pitched their tents at the door of the tabernacle, symbolizing that praise is the gateway to God's presence. No matter what we face, we must always be ready to praise God. This is especially important for mothers, as their praise can open doors of blessing for their families. Praise is not just an act of worship; it is a powerful tool that can change our circumstances and bring us closer to God. The story of the Israelites in the wilderness reminds us that praise should always be at the forefront of our lives, leading us into God's presence and opening doors of blessing. [12:36]
Psalm 22:3 (ESV): "Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to incorporate more praise? How can you make praise a daily habit, trusting that it will bring you closer to God and open doors of blessing for you and your family?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "If you can't do anything else, know how to praise. When the enemy comes in like a flood, know how to praise. When your children are being rebellious, know how to praise. Realize this. See that tent. Everybody knows what a tent is. Don't pitch a tent around the back. Don't put your tent around the side, around the walls. Make sure your tent is pitched at the door. And therefore, no matter what you ever need, you're always at the door and you can see the places of God in your life." [38:36]
2. "Show me a church that knows how to praise God. And I'll show you a church that knows how to multiply. God always multiplies the praisers. God will not allow praise, will not allow praise and you being dormant, being in the same room. If even to the point that once they got into the wilderness, after the Exodus, after they spent over 400 years into, into Egypt bondage, whenever let go that God told Moses, he said, I want you to erect, I want you to erect a tent. Remember the tent, it was Moses tabernacle and all the other tribes, all the other tribes, they would, they, they, they pinched their tents around the walls of, of that tent, but not Judah. Judah always pinched his tent at the door, always pinched his tent at the door. What does that mean? That you could not come into the tabernacle of God without going through praise. Praise is always at the door. Praise is always what opens the door." [12:36]
3. "Perception is power. Perception is power. Perception is power. Perception is power. And there's ever been a time right now, mothers, that we need perception. It is right now because you receive something, how you perceive something. And I want you to give yourself in the hour in which we're living right now, I want you to give more yourself more credit than you probably ever had before. If you perceive something about somebody, if you perceive something about what your children are listening to, what they're watching about, what you're, who they're hanging out with or what's coming out of their mouth and, and their attitude. Perception is power. And you have power because you perceive what is happening here." [18:35]
4. "The blessings of God, oftentimes is birth through persistence. Well, I prayed that one time started going to church for a little while. I set the standard for, for a little bit. I remember persistence. I remember Jordan. We had Jordan. He, dude just wouldn't sleep. Had colic. Had colic. I mean, we, we didn't even care if he slept. We just wanted him to hush. Just cried all the time. As we would just get him in the car, we'd just ride. I mean, we lived in one city. We would ride all the way down the highway to another, literally to another. I was asleep about 30 minutes, 30 miles down the road. There was an off ramp. We'd just take it because he was quiet and I didn't even care. I would just, I was just sleeping my eyes off and going down the road because he was quiet." [31:10]
5. "The point I want you to make this one no matter what you've been through no matter what you've done hey if Eve can overcome and she really messed up I want you to know this morning that God can fix your mess up as well amen he can find that door give the Lord a hand clap of praise for that he's good he's good so we thank God for him." [06:20]
### Quotes for Members
1. "I want to encourage ambitious mothers this morning. I want you to understand something that no matter what's happening, no matter what you're going through, always make sure you're at the door of God, because you cannot get through the door of God, get through the openings of God, get through the blessings of God, unless you have a praise this morning. So no matter what you're going through, no matter what's going your way, make sure you have a praise. And if you got a praise, I want you to know that you're pitching your tent in front of the tabernacle of God and that nothing can come through without praise." [12:36]
2. "This ambitious woman realized, you know what? We're going to, we're going to die anyway. How about if I trust a man of God? And if I trust a man of God, perhaps that's trusting God. And perhaps if I trust God, he might be an answer to my problem. And guess what? Because she did, God blessed her and favored her. I'm here to, I'm just here to encourage you today. Most people don't know it because this is not the stuff you put on Facebook. This is not the stuff you tell people at home, but I know there's a lot of women sitting here, a lot of mothers, a lot of just women in general. That you have trusted God for things that nobody knows absolutely nothing about. And I'm here to remind you from this story, because of your ambitious, because of your ambitious faith, God's going to bless you." [16:16]
3. "The blessings of God, oftentimes is birth through persistence. Well, I prayed that one time started going to church for a little while. I set the standard for, for a little bit. I remember persistence. I remember Jordan. We had Jordan. He, dude just wouldn't sleep. Had colic. Had colic. I mean, we, we didn't even care if he slept. We just wanted him to hush. Just cried all the time. As we would just get him in the car, we'd just ride. I mean, we lived in one city. We would ride all the way down the highway to another, literally to another. I was asleep about 30 minutes, 30 miles down the road. There was an off ramp. We'd just take it because he was quiet and I didn't even care. I would just, I was just sleeping my eyes off and going down the road because he was quiet." [31:10]
4. "The word fervent there means passionate, constant, and intense. Women, ladies, Christian mothers, women of God. Where God has made strong. And here, just woman here, it is, it is, it is not your weakness that, that, that it is, it's not your weakness that, that, that, that keeps you, from the blessings of God. And a lot of times we think we're weak and we're struggling. We can't make it. It's not the weakness that keeps us from the blessings of God. It's our strengths that keeps us from the blessings of God." [35:18]
5. "I want you to understand this morning that, that the blessings of God is only found most of the time in places. Weakness of weakness. God is everywhere, but he usually don't show up in places where we are the strongest. We want to be strong. I know I'm strong here. I'm not strong there. I know. And, and we, and we try to be strong all the time and we don't need God to do this. And we're not going to allow God in our life, but sometimes God allow weakness into our life because it's the place of weaknesses." [21:53]
6. "The point I want you to make this one no matter what you've been through no matter what you've done hey if Eve can overcome and she really messed up I want you to know this morning that God can fix your mess up as well amen he can find that door give the Lord a hand clap of praise for that he's good he's good so we thank God for him." [06:20]
7. "I want to talk a little bit about mothers today and kind of my title today is ambitious mother mothers being ambitious um the the bible's is is full of mothers that are that are ambitious and it's very important to be ambitious how many know that that we always want what's best for our children and and as mothers anytime we I was thinking about whenever we do our um our children dedication is it's very important what what we speak to the mothers and realize that everything they pour into them everything they say to them maybe it's just a um uh you know just just a little bible story or or that little prayer um it's very important how they grow up." [01:17]
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