Disciple #8: How to Walk When the Walk Gets Difficult

Pastor Marc Bullion 

(1 Thessalonians 5:16-28)

“If anyone wishes to follow Me [as My disciple], he must deny himself [set aside selfish interests], and take up his cross daily [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me].” Luke 9:23 AMP

Disciple: A disciple of Jesus is someone who has trusted in Him as Savior and is following Him as Lord. A disciple of Jesus keeps following no matter what the circumstances.

“Discipleship unto Jesus is a long obedience in the same direction.” Eugene Peterson

How to walk when the walk is difficult

(1 Thessalonians 5:16-28)

1. Remember what God’s will is for you

• Be joyful always (1 Thessalonians 5:16)

• Pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

• Give Thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

2. Remember God’s word to you

• Do not quench the Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:19)
• Do not treat prophecies with contempt (1 Thessalonians 5:20)
• Test everything, hold on to the good, and avoid every kind of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22)

3. Remember God is working in you

“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 NIV

Focus on those 4 words: “He will do it”

Walking with Christ this week

Monday:
Rejoice in God’s presence in and on your way to each place you go today.

Tuesday:
Pray and recognize God’s presence a few minutes every hour today.

Wednesday:
Give thanks for 3 difficult things in your life.

Thursday:
Follow the Spirit’s prompting in one selflessly spontaneous way.

Friday:
Make a list of the 4 best things God’s word has brought into your life.

Saturday:
Ask God to give you a word of encouragement for someone today.