BJU equips students to impact the world as they live for truth, seize opportunities and embrace life experiences. Standing on the authority of the Bible, BJU shapes heads, hearts and backbones for Christ by equipping students to lead lives of integrity and influence others for God's glory. www.bju.edu 132

The sermon explores the theological principle that difficult circumstances, referred to as 'ugly,' serve a divine purpose in the lives of believers. It outlines five specific benefits derived from these hardships, including drawing individuals to salvation, fostering spiritual maturity, building trust in God, enabling empathy for others, and ultimately glorifying God. By referencing biblical accounts such as the healing of the blind man and the faithfulness of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, the message encourages a perspective that views suffering not as punishment but as an opportunity for deeper intimacy with Christ. The preacher emphasizes maintaining a faithful attitude during trials to reflect God's character and to provide comfort to those facing similar struggles. Ultimately, the central argument asserts that all things work together for good for those who love God, transforming temporary afflictions into eternal glory.

This study explores the divine attribute of longsuffering by examining key biblical narratives including Genesis, Exodus, and Jonah. It defines this characteristic as God's patient restraint from immediate judgment to provide ample opportunity for human repentance. The preacher connects this theological concept to New Testament teachings, emphasizing that believers are called to emulate Christ's mercy in their daily interactions. Practical applications include exercising forbearance toward authority figures, difficult relationships, and those who have not yet accepted the faith. The message concludes with an urgent appeal for listeners to respond to God's patience by accepting salvation and extending similar grace to others.

The sermon explores the challenge of maintaining spiritual focus amidst a busy, demanding world by examining Jesus' ministry in Mark chapter one. It highlights how Jesus balanced legitimate public duties with the essential need for private prayer and solitude to sustain His divine purpose. The message emphasizes that prioritizing time with God is not laziness but a necessary discipline to avoid becoming merely reactive to life's pressures. By recognizing the difference between good opportunities and God's best calling, believers are encouraged to walk in lockstep with Him rather than running after worldly distractions. Ultimately, the preacher urges the congregation to seek clarity and conviction through daily communion with the Father.

Luke 14:7-11 Honor for the Humble 1. A sinful desire for honor 2. Jesus noticed 3. A big occasion and opportunity 4. A humbling moment 5. Humility is often best 6. Humility vs. Exaltation

BJU equips students to impact the world as they live for truth, seize opportunities and embrace life experiences. Standing on the authority of the Bible, BJU shapes heads, hearts and backbones for Christ by equipping students to lead lives of integrity and influence others for God's glory. www.bju.edu 223

The next figure mentioned in the rapid-fire list of Old Testament heroes of the faith, in Hebrews 11:32, is Barak. Like Gideon, Barak did not heroically jump at the opportunity to deliver God's people, though he was told that God would be with him. Instead, the prophetess Deborah had to promise that her presence would be with him in battle. And because Barak's faith was weak, God would show that He would have to use an unassuming woman, Jael, to finish the job with a striking blow, so to speak. But again, in the end God would demonstrate that just because one has been granted faith, He alone will finish the work He began in us.

BJU equips students to impact the world as they live for truth, seize opportunities and embrace life experiences. Standing on the authority of the Bible, BJU shapes heads, hearts and backbones for Christ by equipping students to lead lives of integrity and influence others for God's glory. www.bju.edu 127

BJU equips students to impact the world as they live for truth, seize opportunities and embrace life experiences. Standing on the authority of the Bible, BJU shapes heads, hearts and backbones for Christ by equipping students to lead lives of integrity and influence others for God's glory. www.bju.edu 265