When you've been knocked down, do you know how to get back up again? As human beings, we are all going to feel defeated at some point in our lives. But as followers of Jesus, we don't have to stay there. Learn how to persevere with the help of the Holy Spirit.
Sermon Outline
Got the blues? It’s something unpleasant that happens to all of us. But as saints of God, we don’t have to remain discouraged. Paul was a model of what it meant to “get back up.” In today’s message, Dr. Stanley explores what motivated the apostle and how we, too, can recover when life deals us a blow.
Key Passage: Acts 14:10; Acts 14:18-22
Supporting Passages: Acts 9:4-5; Romans 1:14-16; Romans 8:35-39; 2 Corinthians 5:5-8; Philippians 1:15-16; Philippians 4:11-13; Hebrews 13:5
Everyone gets down and discouraged at times. What can you do when things seem hopeless?
► “When you’re praising God, you can’t stay down.”
Examples from Paul’s ministry of getting back up:
A lame man leapt up and began to walk (Acts 14:10).
Paul was stoned seemingly to death but got up and returned to the city (vv. 18-22).
Paul’s motivation for recovering from trouble can be applied to our life. Consider …
His conversion (9:4-5).
He fell to the ground and was blinded, but the Lord spoke to him and saved him. Paul never forgot this event.
Our motivation comes from our own salvation experience.
► “What do you do when you get down? Groan? Complain? Moan? Blame somebody? Question God?”
His conviction (Phil. 1:15-16; 4:11-13).
He knew his purpose in life. He was not a victim but a servant of the Lord.
Our motivation is that we represent Christ.
His confidence (Rom. 8:35-39; Heb. 13:5).
He was absolutely certain of God’s presence and faithfulness.
Our motivation is that nothing can separate us from God’s love.
His courage (2 Cor. 5:5).
He was aware the Spirit had been pledged to us.
Our motivation is the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.
His commitment (Rom. 1:14-16).
He saw himself as tasked with sharing the gospel.
Our motivation is the power of the Holy Spirit.
► “You don’t give up; you get up—not in your own strength, but in the power of the Holy Spirit.”
After Watching
Dr. Stanley reminded us that being “down” isn’t uncommon. For challenging times when you might need some encouragement, try memorizing one of the Bible passages that strengthened Paul’s resilience.
The Christan life is meant to be lived in community—in both good times and bad. And it’s often said that “a burden shared is a burden halved.” Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-7. How can you “comfort those who are in any affliction” with the truth you learned from today’s sermon?
