Date: 02/13/2023

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and to Him be the Glory, Power, and Dominion forever and ever and to the Holy Ghost that is yet abiding in the body. This month’s key phrase is Endurance. This week’s message looks at Adjusting to Obstacles.

Saints and Friends sometimes we must adjust our way to fit the realities of life. Solomon wrote, “A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished” (Proverbs  22:3).  This verse is telling us, a sensible person sees danger and takes cover, but the inexperienced keep going and are punished. We all know some circumstances are unavoidable, disappointments are certain, obstacles are sure, and losses will occur. But the person with perseverance acknowledges the roadblocks and adjust. James 1:2-3 tells us, “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.” Hence, when the obstacles of life are stacked before us, we can adjust by going around, climbing over, or tunneling under with prayer.

We each will arrive at crossroads in our spiritual walk. God did not place us on this planet without purpose; He had a divine design for each of us. But as we seek to follow His direction, difficulties will confront us.  The sixth chapter of Joshua teaches us how to overcome the obstacles that would keep us from following the will of God for our lives. Saints whatever your obstacle, God is willing to cross it with you. He is committed to communicating with His people and to providing strength, comfort, and hope. If you are up against a wall and want to know how to deal with it, don’t try to overcome your obstacle under your own strength. Commune with a real relationship with God. Let that be your first plan of action, rather than your last resort.

When Joshua and the people  march around the city seven days! What an act of faith it was for Joshua and the people of Israel. No previous (or subsequent) battle had ever been won in such a manner. It was an act of faith and an act of obedience. Their obedience to God produced a miracle. We read of no negative spirit, discouragement, or disbelief. As they marched around the city, I’m sure they could see the seeming impossibility of the situation. Yet out of obedience they walked. Compliance is the key to the moving of God’s mighty hand in our lives. Many today pride themselves on living within reason, but God called His people to live by faith. We are to walk in faith and obedience to His direction and leadership in our lives.

In closing, Hebrews 11:30 reminds us, “By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.” Joshua and the people of God demonstrated deep confidence in the power of God. It was uncommon common sense to believe that God could make the impossible possible. Yet in the end the walls fell. You see, the walls were not the problem. They never are. We people are the problem. We always are. God has the power to do as He chooses, but He desires that we act in obedient faith. When we do, He takes care of the walls. Do you have that kind of confidence?  Next week’s phrase will be  Abiding in  Patience. Until then remember, “…with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).

In His Service,

Bishop Dr. Calvin Worthem

General Chief Overseer/Senior Bishop