JANUARY                     “It’s Time to Go Deeper”

SUNDAY’S SERMON SUMMARY

GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.

Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart

RISING ABOVE CHALLENGES

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” — Isaiah 40:31

Today, I want to encourage you to rise above the challenges that life throws your way. We all face difficulties—be it personal struggles, professional setbacks, or unexpected hardships—that can make us feel overwhelmed and exhausted. However, God’s Word provides us with the strength and assurance that we can overcome these obstacles by trusting in Him.

Isaiah 40:31 is a powerful reminder of the strength and renewal that comes from waiting on the Lord. This verse speaks to those moments when we feel weary and burdened, offering a promise that God will uplift us and grant us the endurance we need to persevere. “They shall mount up with wings as eagles” symbolizes soaring above our circumstances, gaining a higher perspective, and finding the courage to continue despite the storms we face.

Consider the life of Joseph, a man who rose above immense challenges. Betrayed by his own brothers, sold into slavery, falsely accused, and imprisoned, Joseph faced circumstances that would break the spirit of most people. Yet, through it all, he trusted in God’s plan. Joseph’s unwavering faith and integrity ultimately led him to a position of great influence in Egypt, where he was able to save his family and many others from famine. Joseph’s story is a testament to how trusting in God during our darkest moments can lead to remarkable transformations and fulfill His greater purposes for our lives.

Are you currently facing difficulties that feel insurmountable? Whether it’s a personal loss, a health issue, or a challenging relationship, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here are some steps you can take to rise above your challenges:

1. Spend Time in Prayer: Bring your burdens to God. Ask Him for the strength and renewal promised in Isaiah 40:31. Prayer aligns your heart with God’s will and opens you up to His guidance.
2. Trust in God’s Plan: Like Joseph, believe that God has a purpose for your struggles. Even when things don’t make sense, trust that God is working behind the scenes for your good and His glory.
3. Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive community—family, friends, or a church group—that can provide encouragement and practical help during tough times.
4. Stay Persistent: Keep moving forward, even when progress seems slow. God’s timing is perfect, and He rewards our perseverance.

Imagine an eagle soaring high above a storm. From that vantage point, the eagle can see the entire landscape, navigating through the chaos with grace and confidence. Similarly, when we trust God, His Spirit lifts us above our struggles, giving us the perspective and strength to handle life’s storms. Just as the eagle harnesses the wind to soar, we can harness God’s power to rise above our challenges.

Prayer: Rising Above with God’s Strength – Father, I wait on You. Renew my strength and help me to rise above the challenges I face. Teach me to trust Your plan and walk forward with hope. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

As you navigate through your challenges, remember that you are not alone. God is with you, ready to renew your strength and lift you up. Embrace the promise of Isaiah 40:31 by waiting on the Lord, trusting in His timing, and relying on His unfailing love. Let Joseph’s story inspire you to maintain your faith and integrity, knowing that God can turn even the most difficult circumstances into opportunities for growth and blessing.

Action Steps:

1. Identify Your Challenges: Write down the specific difficulties you are facing.
2. Commit to Daily Prayer: Set aside time each day to pray and seek God’s guidance.
3. Read Isaiah 40:31 Regularly: Meditate on this verse and let its promise sink deep into your heart.
4. Share Your Struggles: Talk to a trusted friend or mentor about what you’re going through.
5. Reflect on Joseph’s Story: Consider how God worked through Joseph’s challenges and apply those lessons to your own life.

Rising above challenges isn’t about avoiding difficulties but about facing them with the strength and perspective that only God can provide. As you trust in Him, you will find the resilience and courage to soar like eagles, running and walking without growing weary or faint. Let God’s Word be your guide and your source of unwavering strength in every season of life.

WEDNESDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS

Rebecca Smith

Michael Stanley      

Mrs. Franklin                                                                                      

Greg Schriener

Angela Bryan’s Sister

Ben Bruce

Carol Lawhead

Danny Jarrard  

Darlene Wiggins

David Newby

Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother 

Donna Plunkett’s Brother-in-law

Doris Loyd

Dr. and Mrs. Davis

Ellen Boyd

Eric Magnusson’s Mother

Eric Ward

Faith Burnette

Friend of Linda Hodge

Gail Sparks

George & Linda Alexander 

George Calhoon

James Burnette

James Parker

Jessica Headrick

Jodi Bateman 

John McClain’s Mother

June Cronan’s Sister

June Davis

Kailey Bateman

Kathryn Raines

Kim McClain’s Mother 

Kim McClain’s Sister

Krista Hilscher 

Larry Barker 

Lee Cronan

Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom

Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah 

Linda Hodges’ Sister 

Linda Lanier

Lonzo Christian 

Lori Blount’s Mother

Mary William’s Granddaughter

Mary Williams

Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom

Mike Bryan

Nora Allison

Pastor Driskell 

Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA

Scott Lanier 

Steve Michaels

Tom Witcher