Endurance in Faith: Trusting God's Timing and Process

Summary

Endurance is not something that comes naturally or easily. When we first come to God, we often expect things to be handed to us, but the journey of faith is more like a marathon than a sprint. Just as training for an Ironman or running a marathon requires discipline, sacrifice, and perseverance, so does following Christ. Life’s challenges—whether in marriage, career, or personal growth—demand that we put in the work, trusting that God is shaping us through every trial and disappointment.

There are seasons when our plans don’t work out, and we feel overlooked or frustrated. In those moments, it’s tempting to take matters into our own hands, crafting our own solutions. But God’s timing and plans are always at work behind the scenes, often in ways we don’t recognize until later. The details of our lives—down to the dates and circumstances—are not coincidences but reminders that God is orchestrating every step, even when we feel lost or discouraged.

Resilience is not just about bouncing back; it’s about learning to trust God’s process. Like a katana forged in fire, we are shaped by repeated trials, with mentors and friends helping us along the way. Sometimes, we’re not ready for the next step until we’ve been refined by the process. Our calling is not always about comfort or convenience, but about being prepared for “such a time as this.”

When setbacks come, we can choose to see them as opportunities. Adopting a mindset that looks for the good in every situation builds resilience. Instead of being overwhelmed by disappointment, we can say “good”—knowing that God is still working, and that every challenge is a chance to grow, recalibrate, and re-engage with our calling.

To endure, we must lay aside every weight—especially the burdens and sins that slow us down. This means being honest with God about our struggles, just as David was in the Psalms. We need to run with endurance, recalibrating our minds through prayer, training, serving, and surrounding ourselves with community. Fixing our eyes on Jesus, we focus not on the finish line or the path of others, but on the next faithful step. We are not alone; God goes with us, and the church community supports us. In the storms of life, we learn not just to survive, but to dance in the rain, trusting that God is with us every step of the way.

Key Takeaways

- Endurance Requires Surrender and Effort
The journey of faith is not passive; it demands both surrender to God’s will and active participation in the process. Like a marathon runner, we must train, prepare, and persevere, understanding that spiritual growth is a long-term commitment, not a quick fix. When we hit burnout or disappointment, it’s often a sign that we need to lean deeper into God’s strength rather than our own plans. [45:49]

- God’s Timing Is Perfect, Even When Ours Isn’t
Our plans often seem logical and well-constructed, but God’s orchestration is far more intricate than we realize. The alignment of significant dates and events in our lives is a reminder that God is always working behind the scenes, weaving together details for our good and His purpose. Trusting His timing means letting go of our need for control and recognizing His faithfulness in every season. [48:38]

- Resilience Is Forged Through Trials and Community
Just as a katana is shaped by repeated exposure to fire and the hands of many craftsmen, our character is formed through adversity and the support of mentors and friends. We are not meant to walk alone; accountability and encouragement from others are essential for building true resilience. Sometimes, God delays our promotion or breakthrough because He is still preparing us for what’s ahead. [51:05]

- A Mindset Shift: Seeing Setbacks as Opportunities
Adopting a “good” mindset—looking for the opportunity in every setback—transforms how we respond to disappointment. Instead of being paralyzed by frustration, we can see each challenge as a chance to grow, learn, and trust God more deeply. This perspective doesn’t come naturally, but it is cultivated through intentional practice and reliance on God’s promises. [54:19]

- Endurance Is Sustained by Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus
The race of faith is not about comparing ourselves to others or obsessing over the distant finish line. It’s about focusing on Jesus, taking the next step, and relying on His presence and strength. When we feel overwhelmed, we remember that God goes with us—not just ahead of us—and that our community is there to support us. In every storm, we can find joy and courage, knowing we are never alone. [01:04:52]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[45:49] - The Reality of Endurance
[46:30] - Facing Disappointment and Questioning Purpose
[47:05] - Wrestling with Plans and God’s Direction
[47:50] - Surrendering to God’s Plan
[48:38] - God’s Timing in Life’s Details
[49:11] - God Working Behind the Scenes
[49:50] - Trusting the Process and Resilience
[50:30] - The Forging Process: Growth Through Trials
[51:05] - The Role of Mentors and Community
[52:15] - Learning from Setbacks: The “Good” Mindset
[54:19] - Building Resilience Through Perspective
[56:03] - Laying Aside Every Weight
[57:19] - Running with Endurance and Recalibrating
[01:03:22] - Dancing in the Rain: Embracing the Storm
[01:04:52] - God Goes With Us: Courage and Prayer
[01:05:28] - Praying for Endurance and Resilience
[01:06:58] - Invitation to Surrender and Salvation
[01:08:21] - Next Steps and Closing Worship

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Endurance and Resilience in the Journey of Faith

---

### Bible Reading

- Hebrews 12:1-2 (NLT)
> "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith..."

- Romans 12:2 (NLT)
> "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think..."

- Deuteronomy 31:6 (ESV)
> "Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you."

---

### Observation Questions

1. According to Hebrews 12:1, what are the things that can slow us down in our race of faith? How does the passage describe the way we should run?
2. In the sermon, what examples did Jimmy give of “weights” or burdens that can slow us down in life? ([56:03])
3. What does Romans 12:2 say about how our minds are changed? What is the result of this transformation?
4. How does Deuteronomy 31:6 describe God’s presence with us during difficult times?

---

### Interpretation Questions

1. The sermon compares the Christian life to a marathon or an Ironman race. Why is this comparison helpful for understanding what it means to follow Jesus? ([45:49])
2. Jimmy shared about times when his own plans didn’t work out and he felt overlooked. What does his story teach about God’s timing versus our own? ([48:38])
3. The sermon talks about resilience being “forged” through trials, like a katana sword. What does this process look like in real life, and why might God allow us to go through repeated challenges? ([50:30])
4. Why is it important to be honest with God about our struggles, as David was in the Psalms? What might happen if we try to hide our true feelings from God? ([56:44])

---

### Application Questions

1. Jimmy mentioned that when he hit burnout or disappointment, it was a sign to lean deeper into God’s strength instead of his own plans. When you face burnout or frustration, what is your first reaction? How could you practice surrendering your plans to God this week? ([45:49])
2. The sermon highlighted the importance of “laying aside every weight.” What is one specific burden, habit, or sin that you feel is slowing you down right now? What would it look like to lay it at Jesus’ feet? ([56:03])
3. Jimmy described a “good” mindset—looking for the opportunity in every setback. Think of a recent disappointment or setback in your life. How could you reframe it as an opportunity for growth or trust in God? ([54:19])
4. The message emphasized the role of mentors and community in building resilience. Who are the people in your life that help you get back up when you’re struggling? How can you intentionally connect with them or be that person for someone else this month? ([51:05])
5. The sermon encouraged recalibrating our minds through prayer, training, serving, and community. Which of these areas do you need to focus on most right now? What is one step you can take this week to grow in that area? ([59:16])
6. Hebrews 12:2 says to keep our eyes on Jesus, not the finish line or the path of others. Is there a way you’ve been comparing your journey to someone else’s? How can you shift your focus back to Jesus and your next faithful step? ([57:19])
7. Deuteronomy 31:6 promises that God goes with us. In what area of your life do you need to remember that you are not alone? How can you remind yourself of God’s presence when you feel overwhelmed? ([01:04:52])

---

Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite group members to share prayer requests related to endurance, resilience, or any burdens they want to lay down. Pray together, asking God to help each person run their race with perseverance and to experience His presence in every step.

Devotional

Day 1: Trusting God’s Timing Over Our Own Plans
God is always at work behind the scenes, orchestrating details in our lives even when we feel overlooked, frustrated, or uncertain about our future. When our own plans fall short or doors seem to close, it’s often because God has something better in store, perfectly timed for our growth and His purpose. Even in moments of disappointment or confusion, we can look back and see how God’s hand was guiding us, aligning events and opportunities in ways we could never have arranged ourselves. Trusting His timing means letting go of our need for control and believing that He is preparing us for “such a time as this.” [48:38]

Esther 4:14 (ESV)
“For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”

Reflection: Where in your life do you sense God asking you to trust His timing instead of pushing your own plans forward? What would it look like to surrender that area to Him today?

Day 2: Laying Aside Every Weight
We often carry unnecessary burdens—worries, regrets, or sins—that weigh us down and keep us from running the race God has set before us. Just as a runner sheds every extra ounce to move freely, we are called to lay aside anything that slows us down, especially the hidden weights of the heart and mind. By honestly bringing our struggles and emotions to God, we find freedom and renewed strength to move forward. Letting go is not a one-time act but a daily discipline of surrender, trusting that God can handle what we cannot. [56:03]

Hebrews 12:1 (ESV)
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”

Reflection: What is one burden or sin you are carrying today that you need to lay at Jesus’ feet? How can you practically surrender it to Him right now?

Day 3: Renewing Your Mind for Endurance
Endurance in the Christian life requires a transformed mind—one that is not shaped by the world’s patterns but is continually renewed by God’s truth. When we face frustration, anger, or disappointment, it’s important to allow ourselves to feel, but then to bring those emotions to God and let Him change our perspective. Like David in the Psalms, we can be honest with God about our struggles, knowing He already understands. As we let God transform our thinking, we become resilient, able to keep moving forward even when the journey is long and hard. [56:44]

Romans 12:2 (NLT)
“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

Reflection: What negative thought or emotion do you need to bring honestly before God today, asking Him to renew your mind and give you His perspective?

Day 4: Fixing Your Eyes on Jesus
When the race feels overwhelming and the finish line seems far away, the key is to fix your eyes on Jesus, the One who began and will complete your faith. Comparing your journey to others or focusing on the challenges ahead can lead to doubt and discouragement, but looking to Jesus brings clarity, strength, and hope. He walks with you through every mile, guiding and sustaining you, even when you can’t see the way forward. Stay focused on Him, trust His coaching, and remember that your path is uniquely designed for your growth and His glory. [01:03:22]

Hebrews 12:2 (ESV)
“Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Reflection: In what area of your life are you tempted to compare your journey to others or focus on the difficulties ahead? How can you intentionally fix your eyes on Jesus today?

Day 5: Strength and Courage for the Journey
God promises to be with us in every step of our journey, giving us the strength and courage we need to face whatever comes our way. We are not called to walk alone; He goes with us, never leaving or forsaking us, and places people around us to support and encourage us. When we feel weak or afraid, we can lean on His presence and the community He provides, knowing that resilience is built not in isolation but together. Take heart—God is by your side, and He will see you through. [01:04:52]

Deuteronomy 31:6 (ESV)
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”

Reflection: Who can you reach out to for support or encouragement this week as you face your own challenges? How can you remind yourself of God’s presence with you today?

Quotes

When we come to the Lord, we're not expecting to enter the marathon race. We're expecting everything kind of to be handed to us. And we hit that burnout of gave our lives to the Lord, starting to head the right way. We don't realize the work we have to put in ourselves. Because endurance races are hard. [00:45:31]

In those times, I questioned my purpose. I questioned what I was supposed to do moving forward. I started questioning what God had to store for me. Am I supposed to be in the Bureau as lieutenant as high as I'm supposed to go? Or am I supposed to go elsewhere? [00:46:55]

I started developing man's plan in here for what I wanted, what I felt like I was called to do. And I remember I was working with security next door in the back, and PT came over, or Pastor Tim came over. And we were sitting there. We were just talking about it. And I said, here's my plan. [00:47:43]

So I think God saw me trying to work my own plan. He said, no, that's not your calling. That's not what I have in store for you and offered me this next spot. [00:48:38]

He's working behind the doors that you don't see. When you're in your anger, your frustration, your disappointment, he's still working. [00:49:11]

Resilience is bouncing back, right? For me, I have similar resilience, I think it's more stubbornness than anything. I hate to lose. So, it's learning to trust not only the process but trust his process. [00:50:15]

Take Japanese swords, for instance, beautiful pieces of craftsmanship, katanas, right? It takes days and weeks to develop those. It's just not something instant like we have today. It's days and weeks of in and out of the fire, in and out of the fire. Getting very hot and bright red and it gets beaten with a hammer and cooled off. [00:50:30]

So, sometimes, maybe we're not ready or prepared enough at that moment to step into our next role. In Esther 4 .14, in English Standard Version, it says, And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this. [00:51:24]

Sometimes, our timing, like these slippers, is convenient and comfortable. But his timing is like our sneakers and it's perfect. [00:51:58]

If we can change our mindset to look for the good in things, then we can start building that resilience and taking the steps forward we need to to get out of it. [00:53:21]

Basically, I'm going to say, when things aren't going right, try not to get bummed out. Try not to get startled. Do your best to not get frustrated. As easy as that sounds, it's not easy to do. Look at the issue and say good. Because he says, if you can say the word good, it means you're still alive. Yes, sir. You're still breathing. You still have some fight left in you. [00:54:27]

Lay aside every weight. In Hebrews 12 .1, it says, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that trips us up. [00:55:11]

How many things are you holding on to that are weighing your mind down, that are weighing you down physically to where you put those slippers on and you sit in the chair because you don't want to do anything else? Because you just have so much weight on your shoulders. So we need to renew our mind, refresh our weapon, right? And lay it at his feet. [00:55:45]

Romans 12, 2, and NLT says, Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. [00:56:05]

If you read through the Psalms, he laid out his emotions all the time to God. Psalms 22, 1, NIV. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me? So far from my cries of anguish. Psalms 13, 1. How long, O Lord, will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? And this is a guy after God's own heart, and he's speaking like this? Why are we hiding it from him? He already knows what we're feeling. Why not push it out and just lay it out there on the line and say, this is how I'm feeling. Help me through it. Open a door for me so I can get out of this. [00:56:49]

In the Christian race, we have that narrow path. It's a marathon, an ultra marathon, where it's not as easy. You have to prepare. You have to train. Build your minds. In the long races, we hit burnout for not prepared properly. And those thoughts of self -doubt start playing in, right? Can I keep doing this? I want an easier way. So we need to remain vigilant in everything we do and find joy and glorify him in those moments. [00:57:51]

PTSD, P, prayer. Pray in everything you do, right? And the psychological term, PTSD, the P is for post. With prayer, you can do it pre. Why wait until something already happens and start praying? Pray beforehand. Start building your mind up before something happens. [00:58:54]

There's only one way to eat an elephant one bite at a time everyone's heard it but we always want to eat the whole elephant first then we start choking and panicking. [01:00:37]

Hebrews 12 2 keeping our eyes on jesus the champion who initiates and perfects our faith don't focus on the finish line don't focus on the race ahead you're doing a hundred mile race and you're in mile two why am i thinking about mile 100 i got a lot of problems between now and then so i just want to focus on mile three because when you start focusing on the race ahead you start placing too heavy a burden on your mind doubt starts to set in i don't know if i can keep this up i don't know if i could do that ministry i don't know if i could turn away from temptation temptation and that sin i don't know if i could do the hard thing god asked me to do i don't know if i could make it through this sickness i don't know if i care for my spouse i don't know if i can keep this race up for that long so we can't do it by ourselves we need to lean on those around us and we need to lean on him [01:01:03]

We can't physically see Jesus or the Holy Spirit. We can feel him, he's there. If you take a step back, listen and feel, he's going to be there and help you through it. [01:02:36]

Don't look left and right and start comparing their path versus yours. They may have a different calling a different reason why they're on that path so make sure we focus on your coach Jesus and focus on the plan that he has for you. [01:02:56]

See, the biggest thing with resilience, right, is you start to not fear the storm that's coming. We don't shy away from it. But we learn to dance in the rain. The thing with resilience is it's all about your outlook. There's no stopping the storms, the trials, the tribulations from coming. They're going to happen. [01:03:29]

If you pay attention to those that are around you, that are constantly there, whether it's good or it's bad, to build you up, those are their mentors that have your best interests. Lean on them. Accountability partners, Pastor Tim, Travis, they're in my top two. I pour a lot into them. They pour a lot into me. And we hold each other accountable. That's the biggest thing. [01:03:59]

Deuteronomy 31 .6. Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them. For it is the Lord, your God, who goes with you, not ahead of you, but he's going with you at your side. And he will not leave you or forsake you. All you've got to do is look and pray. He's there. [01:04:46]

Chatbot

What does endurance teach about spiritual resilience?

How can focusing on Jesus improve life’s challenges?

In what ways does trusting God's timing influence faith?