It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. When was the last time you endured a life changing test? A test that caused you to do a self- evaluation. A test that placed the mirror in front of you. A test that no one could pass for you. A test that dropped you to your knees. When was the last time you believed in yourself? Believed when no one else did. Believed when everything seemed uncertain and unclear. When was the last time you apologized? Apologized for disrespecting someone. Apologized for lying on or gossiping about someone. Apologized for not offering to assist when you had the resources they needed. When was the last time you thanked the Lord for being faithful toward you? Faithful when you were not. Faithful when no one else was. Faithful when the pressure was against you. When was the last time you encouraged yourself? Or the last time you treated yourself well?
This morning, I have been commissioned to come and minister to you. In life, there are times when we are faced with ourselves. Times when we are forced to evaluate everything in our lives. The good and the bad. The highs and the lows. The trials and the triumphs. There are times when we have to trust the Lord in the middle of the storm. During these times in our lives the Lord is not trying to destroy you. He desires for us to mature to new levels. The tests are not designed for us to quit, but grow. My friend, when you realize the areas that need improvement, Don’t Give Up … Grow Up! The Bible declares in 1 Corinthians 13:11 – When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. There comes a time in our lives when we must put away childish things. Things that cause us to act against God. Things that cause tantrums or complaining. When you realize you are not perfect, as you thought, Don’t Give Up … Grow Up!
My brother, my sister, how can you effectively minister to the next generation if you are not willing to grow? How can you constructively criticize your neighbor when you are unwilling to be criticized (Matthew 7:1-5)? The Bible declares in Hebrews 5:13 – For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. Beloved, Don’t Give Up … Grow Up! There comes a time when you must correct what is wrong (2 Timothy 3:16). Stand for what is right. Pray for those who spitefully use you (Matthew 5:44). This morning, do you notice areas in your life which need growth? Do you notice faults needing improvement or sins needing repentance? The Lord has a purpose for your life. None are without sin (Romans 3:23). Think on this question: What prevents you from growing up? Every test we endure is designed to mature and strengthen us. Don’t Give Up … Grow Up! Prayer for Today: Father, in my life, I see areas that need growth. Help me grow up and not give up. As I grow, allow me to be a witness to others. In Jesus’ name … Amen!
Scripture Reading for Today: 1 Corinthians 13:12
May God Bless you at Your point of need!
Pastor Darrick D. McGhee, Sr.