Apostle Allison Smith Conliff focuses on Paul and uses Acts 26 to teach that believers must learn to cope in valleys, not only celebrate mountaintops. The Apostle stresses that many struggles (depression, oppression, even spiritual bondage) are fueled by giving the enemy “space in their heads,” so the solution is to be filled with the Holy Ghost and the living Word and to guard the mind and heart. She highlights that Paul’s effectiveness came from deep conviction, discipline, and unwavering commitment to Jesus, he lived the message, defended the gospel boldly, and made impact everywhere he went. The sermon repeatedly calls believers to build real relationship with God, practice prayer and fasting, refuse lukewarm living, separate from worldly influences that corrupt the mind, and become consistent witnesses who stand on scripture as the highest authority. 

The message opens by noting that reality includes “the valley,” and that coping matters. Many believers suffer unnecessarily because the enemy is given mental space; once the mind is compromised, it can open doors to oppression and deeper bondage. The antidote is being filled with the Spirit and the Word. 

A recurring thread is mental discipline: protect your headspace, protect your heart, and refuse spiritual “footholds.” If you want to win battles, “my mind belongs to Jesus,” and you must stay steadfast rather than double-minded/lukewarm. 

The Apostle challenges “name-only” Christianity: many people say “Jesus” but don’t influence their environment. Paul’s preaching made impact so strongly that he was dragged before rulers and imprisoned, proof that real gospel power disrupts darkness. 

The sermon emphasizes that the Word cannot remain only “on the bookshelf.” It must become reality in the heart. When the Word is alive in you, you can declare and see change. She also warns against mixing scripture with rituals/other systems, God’s Word “stands alone.” 

From Acts 26, Paul is presented as a model: he speaks confidently before King Agrippa, explaining his history, his transformation, and his hope in the Messiah and resurrection. The Apostle notes that truth can be challenged, but believers must still continue in faith. 

A strong correction is given: No minister’s opinion overrides scripture. If the gospel is diluted to accommodate worldly lifestyles, people may feel comfortable but will miss God’s standards and ultimately miss eternity. 

The sermon explicitly defines commitment and applies it to discipleship: when you took Jesus’ name, you affirmed you will stand with His kingdom “no matter what.” God can “work with” committed people because they are ready for action, like Paul. 

A repeated call is to spiritual discipline, especially fasting. Paul’s post‑conversion fast is used as an example, and the church is urged to maintain breakthroughs after receiving deliverance. 

The sermon warns that music carries a spirit and can reshape thought patterns; if it’s not a Holy Ghost influence, it can pull the mind into wrong meditation and vulnerability. The broader point is separation, drop what hinders spiritual climbing. 

The Apostle insists that once God changes your life, you don’t return to old patterns (“dog returning to its vomit” imagery). Serving God takes discipline and deliberate choices, including honoring worship gatherings and staying attentive to the Word. 

• Acts 26 (Paul permitted to speak; Paul’s defense; hope of the Messiah/resurrection) 
• Referenced themes include Jeremiah 29:11, Psalm 118 (“better to trust in the Lord than confidence in man”), guarding the heart, resisting the devil, and renewal of the mind, used to support the call to separation, trust, and discipline. 

Rec. Date: 21st July, 2024