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Sometimes, what we’re used to isn’t always right. In fact, there are times when what we are familiar with, what we cherish, our traditions, are not only wrong - they're diabolical. Chip reveals how to protect your faith, family, and relationships from unhealthy religious habits and rituals.

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There’s something about tradition that makes us feel secure, connected, and grounded. But, there is a dark side to our traditions, even good traditions of our faith, a dark side so powerful that it can destroy the very thing it meant to preserve. So how do you know if a tradition has gone dark? Join Chip and find out.

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Sermon Overview

Scripture Passage: Hebrews 11:32-34

Hebrews 11:32-34 lists several champions of faith, who exemplify tremendous character all throughout Scripture. One figure mentioned is Barak, a military leader, whose faith in God helped deliver Israel from a 20-year oppression of Canaan.

Judges 5:20 explains, “They fought from the heavens; the stars from their courses fought against Sisera.”

These passages reveal four reasons why the heavenlies sided with Barak and fought to bring him the victory.

First, we identify the woman that God chose: Deborah.

Deborah was a judge and prophetess in Israel. She was a godly woman who used her gifting and wisdom to minister to Barak. God still chooses women like Deborah to use their gifts and talents in ministry.

Second, we see the warrior that God called: Barak.

There was a battle to be fought to deliver the Israelites from their oppressors. God chose Barak to lead the charge because his faith was rooted in the God of Israel and he lived as he believed.

Third, we recognize the warfare that God conducted.

Barak and his army did not stand a chance against the Canaanites’ flashy weaponry and 900 iron chariots. But the fight was fixed, for the stars themselves fought the battle. Before the battle began, God sent a rainstorm to soften the ground. This rendered the chariots useless and weighed down the Canaanites’ heavy armor.

Adrian Rogers says, “The God who created the Universe and flung those stars out into space, programmed everything against Sisera.” When we love and serve God, God is on our side and programs us for victory.

Finally, we notice the wickedness that God cursed.

Judges 5:23 says, “‘Curse Meroz,’ said the angel of the Lord, ‘Curse its inhabitants bitterly, because they did not come to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty.’”

In a time of crisis, the city of Meroz did not join the fight against the Canaanites. This is a crucial reminder to stand up for what is right and to fight alongside our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Apply it to your life

Every day, we face battles even more real than the one on Mount Tabor. As we face spiritual warfare and principalities and powers of darkness, we must act as men and women of faith.

Adrian Rogers says, “God will bring the stars behind the man who’s behind God.”