Empowered by Faith: Trusting God's Strength in Action

Summary

### Summary

In our journey of faith, it is essential to believe that we can accomplish what God has called us to do, as He never gives us a task without also providing the strength to complete it. Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," serves as a powerful reminder of this truth. The Apostle Paul wrote this verse while under house arrest, yet he remained motivated and encouraged others to be the same, despite their circumstances. Today, we have the freedom to serve God without persecution, and this should motivate us even more to act on our faith.

There are seven key principles to draw from this verse. First, believe that you can do what you ought to do, as God equips us with the necessary strength. Second, do not undo in doubt what you have done in faith; decisions made in faith should not be doubted later. Third, realize that success does not depend on your talents but on your character. Godly character, as outlined in 2 Peter 1:5-8, is the true secret to success. Fourth, work as hard as you can and believe that God will do the rest. Ecclesiastes 9:10 encourages us to do everything with all our might, trusting that God will provide the strength as we act.

Fifth, after the work is done, glorify God. Always give Him the glory for any success, and take responsibility for any failures. Sixth, in everything you do, whether it is a failure or a success, learn to thank the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 instructs us to give thanks in all circumstances. Lastly, God rewards not just what you can do but also the faithfulness you show in His work, regardless of the circumstances. Faithfulness means finishing the task and remaining committed, even when faced with challenges.

To our friends and visitors, you can only truly live out Philippians 4:13 if you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Open your heart to Him, admit your sins, and receive Him into your life. Only then can you experience the strength and divine character that comes from Christ.

### Key Takeaways

1. Believe in God's Strength: Trust that God equips you with the strength to accomplish what He has called you to do. This belief is rooted in the understanding that God never gives us a task without also providing the means to complete it. As long as our actions align with His will and are not driven by pride or self-reliance, we can confidently say, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" [01:02].

2. Faith Over Doubt: Decisions made in faith should not be undone by doubt. When you commit to something in faith, trust that God will see you through. Doubting your faith-driven decisions can lead to inaction and missed opportunities to glorify God. Remember, God equips and gratifies us when we act in faith, so hold steadfast to your initial conviction [09:17].

3. Character Over Talent: True success is not measured by talents or abilities but by godly character. Traits like diligence, faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity are the real indicators of success. These qualities, as outlined in 2 Peter 1:5-8, are essential for a fruitful and unbarren life in Christ [13:42].

4. Work Diligently and Trust God: Work as hard as you can and trust that God will do the rest. Ecclesiastes 9:10 encourages us to do everything with all our might, emphasizing excellence in our efforts. God provides strength and wisdom as we act, not while we sit idle. Man's extremity is God's opportunity; when we reach our limits, God steps in with His strength [22:03].

5. Glorify God in All Circumstances: Always give God the glory for any success and take responsibility for any failures. In everything, whether success or failure, learn to thank the Lord. This attitude of gratitude and humility ensures that we do not rob God of His glory and keeps us grounded in our faith. As Job said, "The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord" [37:00].

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[01:02] - Introduction and Prayer
[01:55] - The Power of Philippians 4:13
[03:26] - Context of Paul's Message
[04:32] - Freedom to Serve God
[06:16] - Motivation from Christ
[07:03] - Believe in God's Strength
[09:17] - Faith Over Doubt
[12:52] - Character Over Talent
[19:44] - Work Diligently and Trust God
[22:03] - Man's Extremity, God's Opportunity
[34:52] - Glorify God in All Circumstances
[37:00] - Thankfulness in Success and Failure
[38:54] - Faithfulness in God's Work
[42:23] - Consistency in Well-Doing
[45:48] - Invitation to Accept Christ

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
2. 2 Peter 1:5-8 - "For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love."
3. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 - "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."

#### Observation Questions
1. What does Philippians 4:13 emphasize about the source of our strength? ([01:02])
2. According to 2 Peter 1:5-8, what qualities should we add to our faith to ensure a fruitful life in Christ? ([13:42])
3. How does 1 Thessalonians 5:18 instruct us to respond in all circumstances? ([37:43])
4. What was the context in which Paul wrote Philippians 4:13, and how does it contrast with our current freedom to serve God? ([03:26])

#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to believe that God equips us with the strength to accomplish His will, and how does this belief impact our actions? ([07:03])
2. How can doubting decisions made in faith lead to missed opportunities to glorify God? ([09:17])
3. Why does the sermon emphasize character over talent as the true measure of success? ([13:42])
4. How does working diligently and trusting God to do the rest demonstrate our faith in His provision? ([22:03])

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent task or challenge you faced. Did you rely on your own strength or seek God's strength? How can you better rely on Christ's strength in future challenges? ([01:02])
2. Have you ever doubted a decision you made in faith? What steps can you take to hold steadfast to your initial conviction and trust God’s guidance? ([09:17])
3. Think of a time when you prioritized talent over character. How can you cultivate godly character traits like those listed in 2 Peter 1:5-8 in your daily life? ([13:42])
4. In what ways can you work more diligently in your current responsibilities, trusting that God will provide the strength and wisdom as you act? ([22:03])
5. How can you practice giving God the glory for your successes and taking responsibility for your failures? Share a specific instance where you can apply this principle. ([37:00])
6. How can you develop a habit of thanking God in all circumstances, whether in success or failure? ([37:43])
7. Reflect on your faithfulness in the tasks God has given you. Are there areas where you need to recommit to finishing the task despite challenges? ([38:54])

Devotional

### Day 1: Trust in God's Provision of Strength
Description:
Believing that God equips us with the strength to accomplish what He has called us to do is foundational to our faith journey. This belief is rooted in the understanding that God never gives us a task without also providing the means to complete it. As long as our actions align with His will and are not driven by pride or self-reliance, we can confidently say, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" [01:02]. This assurance allows us to step out in faith, knowing that God's strength is made perfect in our weakness.

When we face challenges or tasks that seem insurmountable, it is crucial to remember that our strength comes from God. This perspective shifts our focus from our limitations to God's limitless power. By trusting in His provision, we can approach our responsibilities with confidence and peace, knowing that He will supply all that we need to succeed.

Bible Passage:
Isaiah 40:29-31 (ESV) - "He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."

Reflection:
Think of a current challenge or task that feels overwhelming. How can you rely on God's strength rather than your own to face it today?

### Day 2: Hold Steadfast to Faith-Driven Decisions
Description:
Decisions made in faith should not be undone by doubt. When you commit to something in faith, trust that God will see you through. Doubting your faith-driven decisions can lead to inaction and missed opportunities to glorify God. Remember, God equips and gratifies us when we act in faith, so hold steadfast to your initial conviction [09:17]. This principle encourages us to remain firm in our faith, even when circumstances cause us to question our decisions.

Faith is not just about making bold decisions; it is also about standing firm in those decisions despite challenges and uncertainties. By holding steadfast to our faith-driven choices, we demonstrate our trust in God's plan and His ability to bring about His purposes through us. This steadfastness is a testament to our commitment to follow God's leading, regardless of the obstacles we may face.

Bible Passage:
James 1:6-8 (ESV) - "But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways."

Reflection:
Reflect on a recent decision you made in faith. Are there any doubts creeping in? How can you reaffirm your trust in God's guidance today?

### Day 3: Cultivate Godly Character Over Talent
Description:
True success is not measured by talents or abilities but by godly character. Traits like diligence, faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity are the real indicators of success. These qualities, as outlined in 2 Peter 1:5-8, are essential for a fruitful and unbarren life in Christ [13:42]. Focusing on developing these traits ensures that our lives reflect Christ's character and bring glory to God.

In a world that often values talent and achievement above all else, it is important to remember that God looks at the heart. Our character is what truly matters to Him. By prioritizing the cultivation of godly character, we align ourselves with God's values and prepare ourselves to be used by Him in meaningful ways. This focus on character over talent helps us to live lives that are pleasing to God and impactful to those around us.

Bible Passage:
1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV) - "But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.'"

Reflection:
Which godly character trait do you feel needs more development in your life? What practical steps can you take today to cultivate this trait?

### Day 4: Work Diligently and Trust in God's Provision
Description:
Work as hard as you can and trust that God will do the rest. Ecclesiastes 9:10 encourages us to do everything with all our might, emphasizing excellence in our efforts. God provides strength and wisdom as we act, not while we sit idle. Man's extremity is God's opportunity; when we reach our limits, God steps in with His strength [22:03]. This principle teaches us the importance of diligence and reliance on God's provision.

Our efforts, when combined with God's power, can achieve great things. By working diligently and trusting in God's provision, we acknowledge that our abilities alone are insufficient. This partnership with God allows us to experience His power in our lives and see His hand at work in our endeavors. It also reminds us that our ultimate success depends on Him, not on our own efforts.

Bible Passage:
Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV) - "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."

Reflection:
Identify an area where you have been relying solely on your own efforts. How can you invite God into this area and trust Him to provide what you need?

### Day 5: Glorify God in All Circumstances
Description:
Always give God the glory for any success and take responsibility for any failures. In everything, whether success or failure, learn to thank the Lord. This attitude of gratitude and humility ensures that we do not rob God of His glory and keeps us grounded in our faith. As Job said, "The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord" [37:00]. This principle encourages us to maintain a posture of thankfulness and humility in all circumstances.

By glorifying God in all circumstances, we acknowledge His sovereignty and goodness. This practice helps us to remain humble and dependent on Him, recognizing that all good things come from His hand. It also allows us to maintain a positive and grateful attitude, even in the face of challenges and setbacks. This perspective is essential for a healthy and vibrant faith life.

Bible Passage:
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV) - "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

Reflection:
Think of a recent success or failure. How can you intentionally give glory to God and express gratitude in this situation today?

Quotes

1. "You know, in anything that you do for the Lord, believe that you can do what you ought to do, God never gives us anything to do that He does not give us the strength to do it. As long as what we are doing is not contrary to His will. As long as what we're doing is not against Him. As long as what we're doing is not because of our pride. As long as what we're doing is not because of our boastfulness. As long as what we're doing is not because we think that we can do it. But believing what you do to glorify God, what you do in response to God's work in your life, what you do according to His will, you do it with the strength of the Lord Jesus Christ." [01:02] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "There is no use to be motivated if we will not do it anyway. Oo. Mamotivate lang tayo, mahamon lang tayo, pero hindi natin gagawin. Diba? So, therefore, pag sinabi natin, I am motivated, it means I will do it. It means I will do it. Kaya nga nakalagay ito, I can what? Do. I can do all things through Christ who has strengthened me." [02:59] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Now, we do not have any persecution today. We have freedom to serve God, isn't it? Hindi tayo pinipigilan na mag-witness. Hindi tayo pinipigilan na mag-solwin. Huh? We are free. We have liberty to be able to preach the word. And if during the time of the Philippian believers, they were motivated, how much more we ought to be motivated today? Di ba? I mean, just imagine. Huh? Yung bang no policeman will come to our house because we are praying. No policeman will come to our house or to this building because we are singing. No policeman will come to your house or to you because you hold the Bible." [04:32] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Do not undo in doubt what you have done in faith. And so many times, we can do something for God, all of a sudden, we don't do it. We don't do it because we doubt or what we have done for the Lord. And later on, later on, we try to not trust God about it. You see? Decision when made in faith should not be doubted later. Whatever your decisions might be, a student can decide what course he's gonna take. And when you take, take a course, you do not just take a course because your own mind says it. You take that course because you prayed for it. You take that course because you waited for God to answer. You take that course because you took the advice of your Godly parents or took the advice of your pastor. You took that course because you believe that you can use it for God's work and God's glory." [09:17] (73 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Realize that success does not depend at all upon your talents. Although we believe that the more abilities you have, the more you can do it. The more chances God can use you greatly. Although we believe that the more abilities, the more gifts, the more talent that you have, that you can do better. But you take note that success does not depend at all upon your talents. This does not promise success at all. What is the secret of success? The secret of success is character. Character is the secret of success." [13:14] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "Work as hard as you can and believe that God will do the rest. Ecclesiastes 9.10 says, Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might. Ano ito ang ibig sabihin niyan? Excellent. Diba? Do it with thy might. Be excellent. There is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom in the grave whither thou goest. Do you think, well, Lord, I'll do it for you, but you have to give it a strength, so I'm going to lie down? No. So I'll just sit down and wait for your strength. No. The Lord gives us strength as we do. Do you realize that? The Lord gives us the knowledge as we do. I can do all things while we're doing it, while we're working at it, while we're doing our best for it. God gives us the talent to do it. God gives us the strength to do it. God will never use a lazy man. God will never use a man that does not want to work. God will never use a man that does not want to learn. God will never use a man that you always want to sleep, always want to eat." [22:03] (95 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "After the work is done, glorify God. After the work is done, give God the glory. Though men will applaud us because of our talent, ha? Because of the good things that we have done, will thank us. You know? Always give God the glory. Let us learn to never rob God of His glory. Purihin mo palagi ang Panginoon ginagawa mo. You know? So many times, you don't do it. I always say this. Siguro narinig nyo na akong sabihin to. When you're successful, you give all the glory to God. When you fail, you blame yourself. Do you realize that? Do not blame God when you fail. So, when you, when you become successful in whatever you do, you praise God and glorify Him. Say, Lord, thank you so much and I glorify You with this work. But when you fail, you blame yourself and you tell the Lord, Lord, I'm going to stand up and do it again. Amen? I'm going to stand up and do it again. I am not going to stop doing it though how many times I fall. I'm not going to stop doing it though how many times I fail. I'm not going to stop doing it though how many times I fall until I become successful and you, God, will give me the success for it." [34:52] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "In everything you do, whether it is a failure or a success, learn to thank the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 5, verse number 18, in everything give thanks. In everything. Diba? Hindi nakalagay, in some things. Diba? In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. In everything you do, whether it is a failure or a success, learn to thank the Lord." [37:43] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "God does not reward you only on what you can do, but also the faithfulness you give to His work in any given circumstances. Let me repeat that. God does not reward you only on what you can do, but also the faithfulness you give to His work in any given circumstances. You do the work for God, you be faithful. Do it. You finish it. And I'm sorry to say among those that have surrendered their lives to the Lord, one of them is no longer there. One of them has become worldly, went back to the world, and she is even a girl. See, when you have dedicated your life to God, be faithful. What do you mean faithful? Finish it. Amen? Right? I mean, you know, when we fall in love, you know my wife, you know her favorite song, when she fell in love with me, her favorite song is Till the End of Time. Till the End of Time. I like that, isn't it? Yes. But this is not what God is talking about here. The work of God is what He is talking about here. Can I depend on you that when you do the work of God, it will be till the end of time? Huh? Will you be faithful to it? Will you not quit in the middle of the game? Huh? Why? Because if it was something for God, there would be some people who would not like you. There will be some people who will hate you. There will be some people who will hurt you. There will be some people that will talk against you, that will talk behind your back. They will offend you. You see? But you know what? Even if I have been offended so many times in life, I don't care. Let them offend me. But I will always look on the Lord who never would offend me at all. You see? So God does not reward you only on what you can do but also the faithfulness you give to His work in any given circumstances." [38:54] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "Never get tired of the work you do for God. Never get tired of the work you do for the Lord. Galatians 6.9 tells us be consistent. It says, and let us not be weary in what? In well-doing. Don't get tired of doing good. Right? Doing according to the Lord. Let us not be weary in well-doing. Why? For in due season we shall reap if we faint not. In due season, we shall be rewarded. If we don't stop. We shall be rewarded if we continue on. We shall be rewarded because you didn't look on people. You look on God. You see that? You didn't look on circumstances. You look upon the Lord. You didn't look upon the trials. You look upon God. You didn't let those troubles affect you at all although it will affect you. But you came to own. You continue on looking to God. And let us not be weary in well-doing for in due season we shall reap if we faint not." [42:23] (97 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

Chatbot

Transcript

What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?

Were there any personal stories shared?