I Know I'll Be in Trouble
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of standing firm in faith and relying on God's strength amidst challenges and temptations.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of boldness in faith despite the inevitable troubles that may arise from standing for truth. He reflects on his deep conversations with God, acknowledging his own weakness and the strength found in God. Tozer encourages believers to accept the challenges that come with faith, asserting that true strength is found in vulnerability and reliance on God. He challenges listeners to commit to doing what is right, even when faced with opposition and temptation. Ultimately, Tozer inspires a courageous faith that stands firm in the face of adversity.
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But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict. --1 Thessalonians 2:2
It is good for us to remember how strong He is--and how weak we are. I settled this issue a long time ago. I tell you I have talked to God more than I have talked to anyone else. I have reasoned more with God and had longer conferences with God than with anybody else.
And what did I tell Him? Among other things, I told Him, "Now, Lord, if I do the things I know I should do, and if I say what I know in my heart I should say, I will be in trouble with people and with groups--there is no other way!
"Not only will I be in trouble for taking my stand in faith and honesty, but I will certainly be in a situation where I will be seriously tempted of the devil!"
Then, after praying more and talking to the Lord, I have said, "Almighty Lord, I accept this with my eyes open! I know the facts and I know what may happen, but I accept it. I will not run. I will not hide. I will not crawl under a rug. I will dare to stand up and fight because I am on your side--and I know that when I am weak, then I am strong!" I Talk Back to the Devil, 146.
"Lord, I'm convicted by Tozer's statement that he has 'talked to God more than I have talked to anyone else' (and by my suspicion that in his case that was literally true!). Help me to talk with You more, and then to have the same commitment as Tozer toward doing what I know I should do, even if I get in trouble! Amen."
Sermon Outline
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I
- The importance of recognizing God's strength
- Acknowledging our own weaknesses
- The necessity of prayer and communication with God
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II
- The inevitability of conflict when standing for truth
- The reality of temptation from the devil
- Accepting the consequences of faithfulness
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III
- The call to stand firm in faith
- The assurance of strength in weakness
- The commitment to not retreat in the face of adversity
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IV
- The role of personal conviction in spiritual life
- The power of prayer in overcoming challenges
- The impact of public testimony on others
Key Quotes
“I have talked to God more than I have talked to anyone else.” — A.W. Tozer
“I will not run. I will not hide. I will not crawl under a rug.” — A.W. Tozer
“I know that when I am weak, then I am strong!” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Make a commitment to engage in regular prayer to strengthen your relationship with God.
- Be prepared to face opposition and conflict when standing for your beliefs.
- Embrace your weaknesses as opportunities to experience God's strength in your life.