Sermon Cloud

Standing Tall in Tough Times

This morning we will examine 3 men who are well known biblical characters, and who failed in situations to stand up for what they believed.  Pilate, Aaron, and Solomon all wanted to satisfy the crowd.  They gave us 3 fundamental flaws that we want to stay away from.

1.  They didn’t speak up when they knew something was wrong.  (Mark 15:10,  Exodus 32:22,  1 Kings 11:2)

2.  They went along with the “mob-mentality”.   (Mark 15:14,  Exodus 32:23,  1 Kings 11:4)

3.  They succumbed to peer pressure.   (Mark 15:15,  Exodus 32:23,  1 Kings 11:6)

These men were politically powerful, religiously connected, and in Solomon’s case, the greatest in riches & wisdom above all other kings of the earth.   (1 Kings 10:23)

We as Christians can take 3 steps to stand tall amidst the everyday pressures we face.

1.  Develop a solid Christ based foundation from which everything else grows.  

         (Matt. 7:24-29)

2.  Develop the ability to stand against opposition.   (Galatians 5:1)

3.  Practice clear thinking in difficult times.   (Colossians 3:1-4)

Joseph, Daniel, and Stephen displayed strength in order to impact their situations and make a lasting change. 

1.  Joseph ~ Genesis 39:9-23

2.  Daniel ~ 6:10-23

3.  Stephen ~ Acts 7:1-60