Noah got drunk. This four-week email series includes a weekly devotional + journaling prompts, to help you dive deeper into God's Word through creative journaling. She was a new queen who lived comfortably with the love of the king. All Building Faith in God Prayer Bible Reading & Study Developing Godly Qualities Imitate Their Faith. }. But overcoming obstacles also takes one other thing we may forget about. 1 John 5:3-5 In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. Overcomers are followers of Christ who successfully resist the power and temptation of the world's system. He falls on his sword to avoid capture in battle. But she soon faced a difficult trial: a man named Haman convinced the king to enact a decree, ordering the killing of all Jewish people. Your IP: He knew there wasnt, and he stuck with what he knew and fulfilled his mission of laying down his life for us. And while all of these people exemplified that all-important characteristic of FAITH, several of these stories are also simply about overcoming obstacles. Hearing this, I realised that even though we may never understand why bad things happen, trusting in God helps us to move forward in the best way possible. Sept 22, 2014, 3:45pm PST. 2) John the Baptist John the Baptist faced opposition from two of the most powerful systems during his time: the religious system (the Pharisees) and the monarchy (Herod the tetrarch). And last among these examples of overcomers in the Bible, is Timothy. The detainment of John the Baptist galvanized Christ into intervention. If youre new here, be sure and subscribe to my list so you wont miss anything! Additionally, there was the time he stayed home from war, commited adultery with Bathsheba and killed her husband after finding out she was pregnantand these are only three examples. In the end, whether it be the end of each of our earthly lives, or Jesus return (whichever comes first), our ultimate job as overcomers will be to hold onto faith in Christ. Winning a good faith wrestling match can even make you stronger. Jesus spent a lot of time with these two sisters, along with their brother Lazarus. Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. Let's allow their stories to give us inspiration today as we learn how to be bold for God. Everyone goes through difficult times. And time and time again, he had the chance to kill Saul, but he didn't because his heart was good. We have no excuse before God. We do not have to be in harsh environments like a desert to encounter difficult times. While queen Esther was Jewish, she had been hiding her identity. 1. Of course, his life is full of great examples (and a few bad ones), but none shines quite like the story of his victory over Goliath. Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses and said, We should by all means go up and take possession of it, for we will surely overcome it.. Her son, Samuel, lived to be among the Bibles best influential and Blameless individuals. So, whats the moral of this story? Day 1: The Grumbling Begins. Thankfully, we can always turn to Gods word for guidance whenever we go through such difficult periods. Joshua captured all these kings and their lands at one time, because the Lord, the God of Israel, fought for Israel. The Thirst Collective of websites is supported by individuals and organisations. Of course, you know I couldnt write about examples of overcomers in the Bible, without mentioning the King of Kings, the Chief Overcomer, our risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Pharaohs daughter discovered him and raised him. sedmak, Getty Images/iStockphoto. ), but he still gave God praise. So, what did Daniel do? This is a spam-free zone. But in the garden of Gethsemane he felt our humanity under the intense pressure. Here are some thoughts that run through my head that make me feel anxious about my day: "You're no good.". Samson was immoral. Not all role models are athletes and movie stars. Jobs story reminds me of this testimony I heard about a Christian couple who lost their children in a traffic accident. And I will write on them the name of my God, and they will be citizens in the city of my Godthe new Jerusalem that comes down from heaven from my God. 2. Thirteen years after Ishmael was born, God declared His promise of a son three more times for a total of seven. Nahum 1:7 NLT. Miriam - The First Female Prophetess. But he denied it before them all. Danielle Bernock writes about overcoming the effects of childhood and emotional trauma through the power of the love of God. But he refused, believing it was not right to kill Saul, who had been anointed by God. And, we love to BE overcomers too! Or the tree of slowing down and being still in the midst of a crazy life, to hear Gods still, small voice. She gave up her existence and status for Gods objectives. There are so many great stories of overcoming, both in the Old and New Testaments. Unfortunately, Sarah was barren for almost all her life, presenting a significant obstacle. Elijahs humanity kicked in as he ran for his life, sat under a broom bush wrestling with his faith and praying to die. This gives me great hope. Lazarus died, and the sisters wrestled with thoughts such asif you had been here, he wouldnt have died. The jailer was about to take his own life, believing the prisoners had escaped, but Paul managed to stop him, assuring him that all the prisoners were present and accounted for. Remember what weve talked about thus farthat keeping FAITH in God is the biggest measure of overcoming. There are plenty of Bible characters who could serve as role models for kids. Notwithstanding these challenges, the mother of Jesus obeyed God and submitted to His will. By Joshua Spodek, Author, 'Leadership Step by. The wife of El pleaded to God for a son, and in exchange, she swore to devote his life to working with God. John sent his disciples to ask Jesus if he was the one. The moral of Job's story is: It's okay to question God or the reasons for why something is happening, but there's no need for us to stay there. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORDs, and he will give all of you into our hands. "The Lord showed him a piece of wood. January 22, 2023. But we must remember that our questions don't change who God is or His plan for our lives. Wrestling with his faith, he brings his son to Jesus asking if Jesus can help. The LORD turned to him and said, Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midians hand. Gideons appeal for grace was answered abundantly and he fulfilled his mission as led by the Lord. Hypothetical situation. Described as, " an intelligent and beautiful woman, but her husband was surly and mean in his dealings" (1 Samuel 25:3), Abigail carried herself with dignity and integrity despite her circumstances. Pastor Levi Lusko. Our time on this earth is the process of proving our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. SORT BY. Top 8 Female Bible characters who overcame obstacles. Or, one day, Ill finally be successful in my career. When they disobeyed God and ate from the tree of knowledge, they brought sin and death into the world. Thankfully, he kept on, doing his best with whatever situation faced him - and saved his family (70 relatives) from a terrible famine, which lineage eventually led to Jesus Christ, the Savior . The Female character, too, lost her spouse without having children, leading others to believe she was barren. Stay here and keep watch with me. Jeremiah was grieved over the persecution that his prophecies caused and he became a laughingstock and the target of frequent mocking (Jer 20:7) but he knew that he couldn't keep God's words to. Paul preached Gods word to the jailer and his family, and the whole household accepted Jesus. Like the stories of Gideon and of David, this story from Elijahs life is one of those God gets all the glory situations. Abigail. But Jesus didnt come right away. It was Peter who was commended by Jesus for receiving the revelation from the Father that Jesus was the Son of the Living God. All who are victorious will become pillars in the Temple of my God, and they will never have to leave it. This very day I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. Pastor Jentezen Franklin. The Bible says that Caleb 'completely followed the *Lord'. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. But God answered his wrestling with empowerment. I know I fall short as a writer, wife, or mother, and this pains me. Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God." 1 John 5:4-5 15475 Gleneagle DrColorado Springs, CO 80921Phone: (719) 481-5481Email: geninfo@ba.org. But I take comfort in knowing I'm not alone in my feelings of insecurity. ", 4 Things the Old Testament Teaches about Suffering, California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? All those who heard him were astonished and asked, Isnt he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.Who is it that overcomes the world? receiving the revelation from the Father that Jesus was the Son of the Living God. Stay at the door and keep knocking, until God either opens that door, or calls you down the hall to a different door. The Bible tells us that David grew increasingly frustrated from his constant running and hiding, living in caves and surviving on whatever food his men could find or what those loyal to him would give. So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. Ouch! Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Ruth had also recently lost her spouse and was residing with her bereaved mother. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground. The Bible has several great examples of individuals who prove that you can go through difficult times and make it through to the other side with God as your guide. David saw the good hand of God throughout his own life. She was barren for many years and passed off as Abrahams sister two times to different kings. His faith moved the Lord God to answer by fire; Elijah killed all the false prophets and then prophesied rain. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hands, and Ill strike you down and cut off your head. David. However, despite the prejudice against both peasants and women, she persuaded the Dauphin of France to lay siege to the town of Orleans. She left her son to be nurtured in the sanctuary yet remained close to him and imparted guidance and insight to him during his life. 2022 Divine Creative Love. Your donation will go to funding the generation of more faith-based content to sow into the digital domain. Every wrestling match that Moses went through was met with the grace of God. Job lost his animals, his children, and even his health, and yet Job didnt curse God. And, I have narcolepsy. Deborah - The female warrior in the Bible. Not curse God, as Satan had thought he would. He asked if there was another way. A great example can be found in the Lewis and Clark expedition. Hannahs ability to maintain faith in adversity is one of her most remarkable qualities. And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small in stature. Queen Esther (Esther 1-10) When Esther's story begins, she and her people are living as exiles in Persia. "There are no negatives in life, only challenges to overcome that will make you stronger.". In fact, a lot of people we read about in the Bible messed up. Have faith in God. But the reason for Jonahs wrestling with his faith is made clear in the final chapter of the book using a plant. Hannah. Dont be surprised when your faith is challenged to a wrestling match. Moses sister, Miriam, demonstrates exceptional and shocking bravery by overcoming the obstacle of saving her younger brother. 206.126.248.93 All at once an angel touched him and said, Get up and eat. He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. Throughout the prolonged unrest, the book of Kings lets us know she became the only female judge. Remind yourself of Gods promises, prayers Hes answered in your life, and your personal history with Him. God tells us that we will face trials, but that we should not lose hope! Moses is another Bible character who suffered several instances of hard times. Many characters in the Bible felt this way. She knew what it felt like to be lonely. 58 Bible Verses about Overcoming He who overcomes, and he who keeps My deeds until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations; 1 John 5:4 Verse Concepts For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the worldour faith. (Read about his overwhelming victory in Judges 7). It was such a simple act, yet it speaks volumes: Zacchaeus, who was a very short man, climbed a tree so he could get above the crowd and see Jesus! According to Genesis 21:5-7, Abraham was 100 years old when his child Isaac got born. Caleb promises his daughter Achsah to whoever takes the town, and Othniel, son of Kenaz takes on the challenge . He later revealed that it was because I took action so quickly, that we were able to stay friends. And when I say mistake, I mean, like, a huge sin, the kind that a person regrets for the rest of their life. And she said unto them, Call me not Naomi, call me Mara: for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me. And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war. It is a high point in Moses's life. All rights reserved. Israel was in a bad way when he was called, and he wrestled with the call at first. Certainly, all of us are going through the current COVID-19 pandemic. And it will be said,Build up, build up, prepare the way,Remove every obstacle out of the way of My people., strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.. These lessons may be reproduced with our permission. Faced with temptations? You wake up to a bright light in the middle of the room. Esther demonstrated heroic qualities by risking her head to preserve the survival of her community. The book of Nehemiah is the story of one such character, a man that learned how to overcome all odds and build what God placed in his heart. This is an example worth emulating; we should all try our best to serve God in any situation. INTRO: I. MOSES, OVERCAME A THE OBSTACLE OF A SINGLE-PARENTING HOME. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.1 Kings 19:3-8 (NIV). As Paul neared the end of his life, he reflected on having kept the faith, and the reward he (and each of us) anticipate: For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. And they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. Were you victorious in landing that new job? Thomas became known as Doubting Thomas because he wrestled with the truth that Jesus rose from the dead. When talking about Bible characters who suffered, Job would be one of the first few people Christians think of and rightly so. He made me father to Pharaoh, lord of his entire household and ruler of all Egypt.Genesis 45:6-8 (NIV). January 15, 2023. Is Jesus not worth climbing the tree for? And the schemer is eager for their wealth. Jesus answered with evidence so John could hold fast to his profession of faith. Yet, despite how weighed down they felt due to their dread, they remained strong enough to push through and emerge transformation as a result. for more information about a specific community. Our phone is (860) 346-0907or E-mail Us. Thus, while it is difficult to act when afraid, from my experience, it is definitely worth it. Be strong and courageous. Esther Final Thoughts Share this: Our emphasis, this time, would be on female characters who overcame obstacles. And you, too, can find strength, comfort and guidance in the Lord during these challenging times. 1. Of course, we all know how the story of Saul ends. For everyone born of God is victorious and overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has conquered and overcome the worldour [continuing, persistent] faith [in Jesus the Son of God]. So, what we can we learn from Samson? "You can't do anything right.". The bible is filled with so many words of encouragement for those who are experiencing discouragement. But soon enough, problems occurred: three days had passed and they could not find drinkable water. Did you manage to tweak your budget, just enough to squeak by and pay your bills? He took a penknife and cut the cocoon. Like the verses below state, it is through our continuing, persistent FAITH that we overcome the world. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take away your crown. It is the one who believes and recognizes the fact that Jesus is the Son of God.1 John 5:4-5 (AMP). So what did Moses do? When the Philistines came with Goliath to challenge Israel, David was the only one willing to fight. Then he went out to the gateway, where another servant girl saw him and said to the people there, This fellow was with Jesus of Nazareth. He denied it again, with an oath: I dont know the man! After a little while, those standing there went up to Peter and said, Surely you are one of them; your accent gives you away. Then he began to call down curses, and he swore to them, I dont know the man! Immediately a rooster crowed. If youve ever thought youre too young, too old, too weak, or not good enough to serve the Lord or fulfill a dream He laid on your heart, just throw all that out the window. Magdalene. He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty. His own brothers sold him into slavery in Egypt, where Joseph encountered many hardships. God then spoke to Job in a storm. What is the most difficult thing youre facing right now in life. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and who is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth.Ruth 4:13-15 (NIV). 1. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way. Moses is another Bible character who suffered several instances of hard times. I promise to only e-mail you once a week, and certainly NO spam. Jeremiah, known as the weeping prophet, is one of the major prophets in the Bible. Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him. At this time, everyone was praising God and singing songs. Sarah, Abraham's wife, laughed at the promise of God and then denied that she laughed. "The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. Gideon was fearful. Nephi: Giving in to Temptation. Background to the Story of Gideon. Its not too late! Case in point, is the time when King Darius decreed that anyone who prayed to any other god or human besides the king, would be thrown into the lions den. 8. There, Paul sang to God in worship, until a violent earthquake occurred. 2.) BIBLICAL YOUTHS THAT OVERCAME OBSTACULES TO SUCEED. However, Davids success and popularity caused King Saul to become jealous, and he eventually tried to kill David. And with God's help, Moses successfully leads his people out of Egypt, free of bondage. Obviously, Peter was devastated when he realized what hed done. Judges 6:1-6 (KJV) 1 And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord: and the Lord delivered them into the hand of Midian seven years. He claimed he didn't know. Being a disciple of Jesus doesnt automatically make one a faith giant. But, God still called me to be a Christian blogger (and, to start a YouTube channel too!). After the seventh time, Sarah laughed, unable to fathom having a child at her age. Photo credit:Thinkstock/KatarzynaBialasiewicz. Jacob lied and connived. All of the disciples go with him. They accused Job of sinning, asserting that his suffering was Gods punishment. As followers of Jesus, we will struggle with trials and tribulations. I had failed all the previous examinations and was not confident things could change. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. Next post: 25 Bible Verses About The Word of God, Previous post: Jesus Calms the Storm ~ Bible Journaling Tutorial. May he become famous throughout Israel! All rights reserved. Then tragedy strikes and Job loses everything: his children, his wealth, his livestock, his crops, his health and even the relationship of his wife and friends. Our emphasis, this time, would be on female characters who overcame obstacles. Do not consider your maidservant a wicked woman, for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief I have spoken until now.. "John, James, Andrew and Peter were the disciples closest to Jesus," Traylor says. 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Prophet, is Timothy thing youre facing right now in life all role models for kids popularity caused Saul... His faith moved the Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes been published, he the...