Finding Our Feet: Standing Firm in Faith
Summary
### Summary
Today, we are reminded of the importance of standing firm in our faith and finding our footing in Christ. As we reflect on the journey of our church and the powerful moments we've experienced, such as the recent baptisms, it's clear that God is moving among us. We are called to rise up, support our ministry, and actively participate in the mission God has for us. This is not a time to sit on the sidelines but to engage fully in the work God has set before us.
Drawing from personal experiences and biblical examples, we see that life can often knock us down, leaving us feeling disoriented and disconnected. Just as I encourage my grandson Josiah to "find his feet" when he falls, God is calling us to find our spiritual footing. We must get back up, stand firm, and continue moving forward despite the challenges we face. Elijah's story serves as a powerful reminder that even mighty prophets can lose their footing, but God is always there to provide, guide, and refocus us.
We must be vigilant against the enemy's attempts to sow discord and self-pity. Our faith must be anchored in the truth of God's word, and we must continually seek His presence to refine and strengthen our spiritual armor. This includes the helmet of salvation, the belt of truth, and the sword of the Spirit. We need to be proactive in our faith, not just putting on the armor but also moving forward in the battle.
God knows our pain, disappointments, and struggles. He invites us to surrender these burdens to Him, to find our feet again, and to stand on the solid rock of His promises. As we do this, we are equipped to discern and defeat the enemy, to build each other up, and to move forward in unity and purpose. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, remember His faithfulness, and continue to step forward in faith, knowing that He is with us every step of the way.
### Key Takeaways
1. Stand Firm in Faith: Life's challenges can knock us down, but we are called to stand firm in our faith. Just as Elijah needed to refocus on God after fleeing from Jezebel, we must find our footing in Christ and stand strong against the enemy's attacks. God provides the strength and guidance we need to get back up and continue our journey. [53:35]
2. Active Participation in God's Mission: It's time to move from the sidelines and actively participate in the mission God has for us. Our church is called to support one another and fulfill the unique assignment God has given us. This requires us to rise up, stand firm, and engage fully in the work of the ministry. [50:29]
3. Refine and Strengthen Your Spiritual Armor: We must continually seek God's presence to refine and strengthen our spiritual armor. This includes the helmet of salvation, the belt of truth, and the sword of the Spirit. By doing so, we are better equipped to stand against the enemy's lies and remain grounded in God's truth. [16:27]
4. Avoid Self-Pity and Negative Camps: Self-pity and negative influences can hinder our spiritual growth and keep us from fulfilling God's purpose. We must be vigilant against these traps, focusing instead on God's truth and surrounding ourselves with positive, faith-building influences. [06:00]
5. Surrender Your Burdens to God: God knows our pain and disappointments, and He invites us to surrender these burdens to Him. By doing so, we can find our feet again and stand on the solid rock of His promises. This enables us to move forward in faith, knowing that God is with us and will guide us through every challenge. [15:20]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[47:11] - Introduction and Prayer
[48:05] - Call to Rise Up and Support the Ministry
[49:32] - Baptism and Public Declaration of Faith
[50:29] - Encouragement to Get Up and Move
[51:23] - Higher Heights and God's Continued Work
[52:02] - Personal Story: Josiah and Finding Your Feet
[53:35] - Finding Your Foundation in Christ
[55:07] - Prayer for Freedom and Healing
[55:53] - Stand Firm Against the Enemy
[57:06] - Example of Elijah's Journey
[59:37] - God's Provision in Our Weakness
[01:02:46] - God's Call to Refocus
[01:04:57] - Overcoming Disappointment and Hurt
[01:06:00] - Avoiding Negative Influences
[01:09:20] - Strengthening Your Spiritual Armor
[01:14:09] - Jesus' Example of Finding His Feet
[01:15:20] - Surrendering Burdens to God
[01:19:30] - Importance of Daily Spiritual Nourishment
[01:22:40] - Call to Action: Stand, Armor Up, and Move
[01:29:12] - Unity and Humility in the Body of Christ
[01:32:15] - Closing Prayer and Reflection
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV): "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings."
2. Ephesians 6:11-14a (NIV): "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does 1 Peter 5:8-9 say about the nature of our enemy and how we should respond? ([55:53])
2. According to Ephesians 6:11-14a, what are the components of the full armor of God, and why are they important? ([15:54])
3. In the sermon, what personal story did Pastor Ibai share to illustrate the concept of "finding your feet"? ([52:02])
4. How did Elijah's experience with Jezebel demonstrate the need to refocus on God after a setback? ([59:37])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does understanding that believers worldwide face similar struggles (1 Peter 5:9) help us stand firm in our faith? ([55:53])
2. What does it mean to "put on the full armor of God" in practical terms, and how can this help us in our daily spiritual battles? ([15:54])
3. How can Elijah's story of fleeing from Jezebel and later finding his footing again encourage us in our own moments of fear and doubt? ([59:37])
4. What are the dangers of self-pity and negative influences, and how can we guard against them according to the sermon? ([06:00])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent challenge that knocked you down. How did you respond, and what steps can you take to "find your feet" again in Christ? ([53:35])
2. In what ways can you actively participate in the mission of your church rather than sitting on the sidelines? Identify one specific action you can take this week. ([50:29])
3. How can you refine and strengthen your spiritual armor daily? What specific practices can you incorporate into your routine to ensure you are well-equipped for spiritual battles? ([16:27])
4. Think of a time when you felt overwhelmed by self-pity or negative influences. How did it affect your spiritual growth, and what changes can you make to avoid these traps in the future? ([06:00])
5. Identify a burden you are currently carrying. How can you surrender this burden to God, and what steps will you take to stand on the solid rock of His promises? ([15:20])
6. How can you support and build up others in your church community, especially those who may be struggling to find their footing? ([50:29])
7. What specific distractions in your life are preventing you from focusing on Jesus? How can you minimize these distractions this week to strengthen your faith? ([53:35])
Devotional
Day 1: Stand Firm in Faith
Life's challenges can often leave us feeling disoriented and disconnected from our faith. Just as Elijah needed to refocus on God after fleeing from Jezebel, we too must find our footing in Christ and stand strong against the enemy's attacks. When we are knocked down by life's trials, God provides the strength and guidance we need to get back up and continue our journey. By anchoring our faith in the truth of God's word, we can stand firm and remain steadfast in our spiritual walk. [53:35]
1 Peter 5:8-9 (ESV): "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world."
Reflection: Think of a recent challenge that knocked you down. How can you refocus on God and stand firm in your faith today?
Day 2: Active Participation in God's Mission
It's time to move from the sidelines and actively participate in the mission God has for us. Our church is called to support one another and fulfill the unique assignment God has given us. This requires us to rise up, stand firm, and engage fully in the work of the ministry. By actively participating in God's mission, we contribute to the growth and unity of the church, and we experience the joy of serving alongside our brothers and sisters in Christ. [50:29]
Ephesians 4:11-13 (ESV): "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ."
Reflection: What specific steps can you take this week to actively participate in the mission God has for you and your church?
Day 3: Refine and Strengthen Your Spiritual Armor
We must continually seek God's presence to refine and strengthen our spiritual armor. This includes the helmet of salvation, the belt of truth, and the sword of the Spirit. By doing so, we are better equipped to stand against the enemy's lies and remain grounded in God's truth. Strengthening our spiritual armor requires daily commitment to prayer, scripture reading, and seeking God's guidance in all aspects of our lives. [16:27]
Ephesians 6:13-17 (ESV): "Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
Reflection: Which piece of your spiritual armor needs the most strengthening right now? How can you focus on refining it this week?
Day 4: Avoid Self-Pity and Negative Camps
Self-pity and negative influences can hinder our spiritual growth and keep us from fulfilling God's purpose. We must be vigilant against these traps, focusing instead on God's truth and surrounding ourselves with positive, faith-building influences. By avoiding self-pity and negative camps, we can maintain a healthy spiritual mindset and stay aligned with God's will for our lives. [06:00]
Philippians 4:8 (ESV): "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
Reflection: Identify a negative influence in your life. How can you replace it with a positive, faith-building influence today?
Day 5: Surrender Your Burdens to God
God knows our pain and disappointments, and He invites us to surrender these burdens to Him. By doing so, we can find our feet again and stand on the solid rock of His promises. This enables us to move forward in faith, knowing that God is with us and will guide us through every challenge. Surrendering our burdens to God allows us to experience His peace and strength in the midst of our struggles. [15:20]
Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV): "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Reflection: What burden are you carrying today that you need to surrender to God? How can you practically lay it down at His feet and trust Him with it?
Quotes
1. "3W, get up, stand firm in the word of God and in the works of the Lord. Last week, we had a guest speaker, Abby, who he prayed in that second service that was so powerful. And he prayed over Pastor David and Pastor Patty and their children. But then he said this to the congregation. He said that we need to come alongside our pastor and support him, support this ministry, support the mission that God has on this church." [48:05] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "It's time for us to stay. Stay in the will of God and move. Souls still need to be won for the kingdom. We can't sit on the sideline and expect somebody else to do it. You are that somebody. Hallelujah, Jesus. That wasn't even in my message. Ah. So. All right. So. Since the Lord took me back there, I'm going to move in obedience." [51:23] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Find your feet. Find your foundation. Listen I know. In this life we have troubles. I know that life can take your feet from up under you. I know that there are some in here today. That are injured. Disappointed. And you literally have lost your footing. You can't connect with anything or anyone and even with God. But can I tell you. God knows. He knows it. And that's why you're here today. God is speaking. Find your feet again." [53:35] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Brothers and sisters. I'm here to tell you to stand. And get focused. Stand. What do I mean by this stand? What I'm saying to you. Is to maintain an upright position. And the only way you can do that. Is that your feet are supporting. Everything that you're doing. Move. But yet remain. In a specified position. Get anchored. And let nothing alter. What you have come to know." [56:33] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I know y'all. That we live in a time. When there are disappointments. And last week. Abby talked about friendly fire. You remember that? Friendly fire ain't friendly. Is it? It can do some grave damage. It can kill. Frustration will come. Loss. When we've had great loss. And we just can't find our feet again. But God is with us. Fear. Abandonment. Betrayal. These things happen. And as a result. We become stagnant. Even our vision. The way we see things. Can change. We begin to see things in a more negative way." [01:04:57] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Be on guard. Stand firm. In your faith. Find your feet. Cause the enemy will come. To try to take your feet from up under you. And some of us have settled. Where we'll just sit. We'll just sit on the sideline. Let me see what they're gonna do now. No, no, no, no, no. It's time to get up. It's time to get up. And get moving. But be careful. Of self pity. The devil plays in that place. And you can become so blinded. By your own self pity. That you miss. The things that God is doing." [01:10:53] (56 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "I will tell you this. Sometimes it's hard. I know this. It's hard. To smile. And to love on somebody. That you know is hurting you. But you know what you do. You start asking God to give you the eyes. To see them the way he does. That's what you do. Why are we doing that? Because we want to be. More like Jesus." [01:07:37] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "But you need to have that belt of truth. So you know how to stand. When you're confronted. You can speak God's truth. And I love that it's right there. Around in that gut area. In that core. Strengthen your core. Strengthen your heart. Strengthen your core. So that you can be able to stand." [01:17:59] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Find your feet again. the word of God be your foundation. Let the promises of God be your foundation. Remember what he says. He is God. There is none greater than he is. David knew this. It says in Psalm 18, 30-33, it says, God's way is perfect. All the Lord's promises prove true. He is a shield. For all who look to him for protection." [01:32:15] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "Find your feet again. get focused your feet again and stand armor up and get to stepping God is with you and he knows your pain he knows your disappointment he is well acquainted but he waits and says will you give it to me you give it to me so that I can move forward with you aren't you tired aren't you tired of not moving we go from glory to glory so father God we bless you thank you for your holy word you are never slack concerning your promises everything that you say God you fulfill." [01:32:59] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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