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Yesterday was a joyous occasion at Southeastern Christian Academy as we celebrated the graduation of both our seniors and kindergartners. This event marked the beginning and end of significant educational journeys, and it was a time to reflect on the concept of "becoming." In life, especially in our walk with God, we are always in a state of becoming—growing, changing, and transforming. Romans 12:2 reminds us not to conform to this world but to be transformed by the renewal of our minds. This transformation is crucial because the world is set against our Christian beliefs, and we must be vigilant in becoming who God has called us to be. The process of becoming is more important than merely doing. God gives us time to grow into what He has planned for us. This is evident in the lives of our graduates, who have spent years accumulating knowledge and skills. However, the real challenge lies in applying this knowledge when faced with life's adversities. It's not enough to have degrees or titles; we must be able to manifest what we have learned in practical, impactful ways. God's command to Adam in Genesis 1:28 to be fruitful, multiply, subdue the earth, and have dominion is a call to productivity and growth. This command extends to us today. We must not only be fruitful but also learn to multiply and have dominion over our circumstances. This requires a deep relationship with God, where our identity and abilities are rooted in His anointing. Jesus emphasized the importance of knowing who He is, as our identity and purpose are intertwined with His anointing. The enemy is always trying to disrupt God's plan for our lives. He uses various tactics to distract and discourage us, but we must remain steadfast. The gifts and callings of God are irrevocable, and they are always growing within us. Our ability (gifting) and identity (calling) are given by God, and they are meant to be developed and used for His glory. The enemy perceives the potential God has placed in us and tries to thwart it, but we must rely on God's revelation to navigate these challenges. In Exodus, we see how the Israelites were oppressed by Pharaoh, yet they continued to multiply and grow. This is a testament to God's power and purpose prevailing despite opposition. Similarly, our graduates and all of us are called to rise above challenges and fulfill God's plan for our lives. We must be productive and learn to multiply what God has given us, ensuring that we become who we are meant to be. In conclusion, becoming who God has called us to be requires listening to His voice and receiving His revelation. We must be like trees planted by rivers of water, unmovable and steadfast. The enemy will try to get us off track, but our identity and purpose in God will keep us grounded. As we continue to grow and transform, we will fulfill the destiny God has for us, becoming fruitful and multiplying in every area of our lives. ### Key Takeaways 1. **The Importance of Becoming**: In our walk with God, we are always in a state of becoming—growing, changing, and transforming. Romans 12:2 reminds us not to conform to this world but to be transformed by the renewal of our minds. This transformation is crucial because the world is set against our Christian beliefs, and we must be vigilant in becoming who God has called us to be. [00:45] 2. **God's Timing and Growth**: God gives us time to grow into what He has planned for us. This is evident in the lives of our graduates, who have spent years accumulating knowledge and skills. However, the real challenge lies in applying this knowledge when faced with life's adversities. It's not enough to have degrees or titles; we must be able to manifest what we have learned in practical, impactful ways. [02:32] 3. **Productivity and Multiplication**: God's command to Adam in Genesis 1:28 to be fruitful, multiply, subdue the earth, and have dominion is a call to productivity and growth. This command extends to us today. We must not only b

The Bible is full of examples of ambitious mothers who, despite their circumstances, remained steadfast in their faith and dedication to their families. One such example is Susanna Wesley, who lived in the late 1600s. Despite the challenges she faced, including the loss of nine of her 19 children and a husband who struggled to succeed as a pastor, she remained committed to raising her children in the ways of the Lord. Her dedication paid off, as two of her children, John and Charles Wesley, went on to have a significant impact on the Christian faith. Susanna's story teaches us the importance of persistence and dedication, no matter the obstacles we face. [01:17] Another example of an ambitious mother is Eve. Despite being the first to sin, Eve's story didn't end in failure. She experienced the joy of childbirth with Cain and Abel, but also the heartache of losing Abel. However, God blessed her with another son, Seth, who became the righteous seed through which the lineage of Jesus Christ would come. Eve's story reminds us that no matter our past mistakes, God can restore and use us for His glory. [05:01] Leah is another example of an ambitious mother. Despite being unloved by her husband Jacob, Leah remained faithful to God. She named her children with meanings that reflected her hope and faith. Her first son, Reuben, meant "seeing," as she believed God had seen her affliction. Her second son, Simeon, meant "hearing," as she believed God had heard her prayers. Her third son, Levi, meant "joined," reflecting her hope that her husband would finally love her. However, it was her fourth son, Judah, whose name meant "praise," that marked a turning point. Leah decided to focus on praising God rather than seeking her husband's approval. This act of faith led to Judah becoming the most prominent tribe in Israel, from which Jesus Christ would come. Leah's story teaches us the importance of putting God first in our lives. [07:32] The story of the Shunammite woman in 2 Kings 4 is another powerful example. Despite having everything she needed, she lacked a child. When the prophet Elisha visited her, she showed him great hospitality. In return, Elisha prophesied that she would have a son. When her son later died, she didn't accept this as the end. Instead, she sought out Elisha, demonstrating her faith and persistence. Her story teaches us the power of perception and persistence. [17:24] Finally, I want to emphasize the importance of praise. Praise is not just an act of worship; it is a powerful weapon against the enemy. When the Israelites were in the wilderness, the tribe of Judah always pitched their tents at the door of the tabernacle, symbolizing that praise is the gateway to God's presence. No matter what we face, we must always be ready to praise God. This is especially important for mothers, as their praise can open doors of blessing for their families. [12:36] 1. [0:00] - Welcome 2. [01:17] - Susanna Wesley's Persistence 3. [05:01] - Eve's Redemption 4. [07:32] - Leah's Faithfulness 5. [12:36] - The Power of Praise 6. [17:24] - The Shunammite Woman's Perception and Persistence 7. [38:36] - Final Blessing and Prayer Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myhighestpraise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highest.praisechurch TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@hpchurch?_t=8YOWMoX3wjb&_r=1 https://www.highestpraisechurch.com/

Today, we delve into the life of David, a man anointed by God but who found himself in a tough place. David's story is a powerful reminder that even after being anointed, we can find ourselves in challenging situations. There are two types of tough places: those we put ourselves in and those God allows us to be in for a purpose. David's story in 1 Samuel 30:6 shows us that God sometimes anoints us for these tough times, not just for the appointing that is to come. David believed in seeing the goodness of God in the land of the living, even when he hadn't seen it yet. This belief is crucial when we find ourselves in tough places. Many of us don't see the appointing after the anointing because we don't steward the small things. We must be anointed in the valley before we ever make it to the mountaintop. The enemy often attacks us in this in-between place to prevent us from reaching our appointed place. The enemy's strategy is to kill, steal, and destroy, but often he does it little by little, hoping we will settle for less. He steals our joy, peace, and health, making us feel like a shell of who we once were. But God is a restorer, and we must not settle for the enemy's theft. We must get fed up and say, "Enough is enough." Proverbs 4 says that if you catch a thief, you can make him pay back seven times. Today is the day to catch the thief and reclaim what has been stolen. David could have let his past experiences dictate his future, but he chose to call bad things bad and not let them define him. We must do the same. We often hold on to our past, defining our future by it, but God wants to do something new and mighty in our lives. We must let go of the past and hold on to God. David strengthened himself in the Lord, holding on and pressing in when he wanted to run away. Before God restored anything on the outside, He strengthened David on the inside. We must do the same, ensuring our hearts are in the right place before responding to our situations. David held on to God's word, not the opinions of men. He inquired of the Lord, asking for the ephod, a representation of going into the presence of God to get a word from Him. David didn't ask for a sword or shield; he sought a word from God. He knew he was capable of pursuing and overtaking the enemy, but he wanted to ensure it was God's will. God told David to pursue, overtake, and recover all. David's recovery wasn't just about getting back what was stolen; it was about complete restoration, with nothing missing and nothing broken. We must seek God and get a word from Him before making decisions. God is seeking those who are seeking Him. When we seek God, we will find Him, and He will give us the answers we need. David's story teaches us that recovery is not just about survival but about thriving and seeing God's goodness in our lives. ### Key Takeaways 1. **The Enemy's Strategy**: The enemy often attacks us little by little, hoping we will settle for less. He steals our joy, peace, and health, making us feel like a shell of who we once were. But God is a restorer, and we must not settle for the enemy's theft. We must get fed up and say, "Enough is enough." [13:33] 2. **Letting Go of the Past**: We often hold on to our past, defining our future by it. But God wants to do something new and mighty in our lives. We must let go of the past and hold on to God. David chose to call bad things bad and not let them define him, and we must do the same. [17:54] 3. **Strengthening Ourselves in the Lord**: Before God restores anything on the outside, He strengthens us on the inside. David strengthened himself in the Lord, holding on and pressing in when he wanted to run away. We must ensure our hearts are in the right place before responding to our situations. [08:05] 4. **Seeking God's Word**: David didn't ask for a sword or shield; he sought a word from God. He knew he was capable of pursuing and overtaking the enemy, but he wanted to ensure it was God's will. We must seek God a

Today, I explored the profound journey of sanctification and faith, drawing from the narrative of Joshua and the Israelites as they prepared to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. This story, rich with symbolism, serves as a powerful metaphor for our spiritual journey and the necessity of aligning ourselves with God's will.The sermon began by setting the context of the Israelites' journey. They had been wandering in the wilderness for 40 years due to their lack of faith and constant murmuring against God. This period was meant to be a brief transition, not a prolonged ordeal. The wilderness represents a phase of just enough—where God provides daily but not abundantly. This is contrasted with the slavery in Egypt, a place of not enough, and the Promised Land, a place of abundance.I emphasized the importance of sanctification, using Joshua 3:5 as a pivotal scripture. Sanctification involves setting ourselves apart for God's purpose, allowing Him to work within us to prepare us for the blessings and tasks He has in store. This process is not about achieving perfection through our efforts but about making ourselves available to God's transformative power.The crossing of the Jordan River was highlighted as a critical moment of faith. The river, at flood stage, represented significant obstacles and fears that can seem insurmountable. Yet, it was at this moment that the priests, carrying the Ark of the Covenant, had to step into the raging waters, demonstrating faith before seeing the waters part. This act of faith was crucial for the Israelites to move from a life of mere survival in the wilderness to a life of thriving in the Promised Land.Throughout the sermon, I drew parallels between the Israelites' experiences and our modern spiritual journeys. Just as the Israelites had to physically move into the unknown to reach their promised future, we too are called to step out in faith, leaving behind our comfort zones and trusting in God's guidance and provision.The sermon concluded with a call to action for personal sanctification and faith. By choosing to sanctify ourselves today, we prepare for the wonders God promises to perform in our lives tomorrow. This requires a daily commitment to live by faith, trusting in God's timing and provision, even when the path ahead seems unclear or daunting.### Key Takeaways1. **Sanctification as Preparation for Divine Wonders** Sanctification isn't merely a theological concept; it's a daily decision to dedicate oneself wholly to God's service. This dedication allows God to work wonders in and through us, preparing us for greater works and blessings. Just as the Israelites had to sanctify themselves before crossing into the Promised Land, we must prepare our hearts daily for the divine acts God wants to perform in our lives. [09:11]2. **Faith in Action at the Jordan River** The moment the priests stepped into the Jordan River, their actions mirrored their faith. This teaches us that true faith requires action. It's not enough to believe in God's power; we must demonstrate our faith, especially when faced with challenges that seem insurmountable. Our steps of faith pave the way for miraculous interventions in our lives. [23:05]3. **The Role of Remembrance in Sustaining Faith** Remembering past deliverances and miracles strengthens our faith and prepares us for future challenges. Just as the Israelites built memorials to remember God's acts, we should regularly recall and celebrate what God has done in our lives. This remembrance helps us to trust in His continued faithfulness and provision. [34:08]4. **The Importance of Spiritual Leadership and Guidance** Just as Joshua led the Israelites with clear instructions from God, we need spiritual leadership in our lives to guide us through our spiritual journeys. Leaders help us focus on God's presence and ensure we are moving in the right direction. This guidance is crucial in times of uncertainty and transition. [14:17]5. **Embraci

In today's sermon, I explored the profound spiritual battles we face and the divine empowerment available to us through faith and the Word of God. I began by addressing the battle of response, emphasizing the importance of not merely reacting to adversities but responding with spiritual wisdom. I highlighted that our struggles are not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces, and thus, our responses must be rooted in spiritual truths. I then delved into the significance of guarding our gates – the eye, ear, and mouth gates – to prevent the enemy's lies from infiltrating our spirit. This led to a discussion on the power of the tongue, where I reminded everyone that life and death are in the power of the tongue, and it's crucial to speak life and truth in the face of adversity. Further, I revisited the biblical account of David and Goliath, illustrating how our giants could be gateways to our destiny. Just as David faced Goliath not with fear but with faith, we too are called to confront our battles with the assurance that God is with us. I stressed the importance of persistence in prayer and faith, symbolized by David's selection of five stones, representing our need to be prepared and persistent. I also touched on the theme of condemnation versus conviction, where I clarified that while the enemy condemns us to destroy, God convicts us to restore. It's vital to discern the voice of God from the voice of the enemy and to stand firm in God's promises, which proclaim victory and redemption. Towards the end of the sermon, I emphasized that God has built us not to be confined but to thrive even in storms, much like ships are designed not to be docked but to face the vast seas. This metaphor serves as a reminder that we are built for more than what we often settle for, and in God, we have the strength to overcome any turbulence. In conclusion, I reassured the congregation of God's unwavering presence and protection, symbolized through the imagery of God being our shield and the lifter of our heads. Even when we feel overwhelmed or downtrodden, God is actively working to lift us and lead us to victory. ### Key Takeaways: 1. **The Importance of Guarding Our Gates**: The spiritual gates of our lives – the eyes, ears, and mouth – must be vigilantly guarded to prevent the enemy's deceit from entering our hearts. What we consume through these gates can either strengthen our faith or weaken our resolve. By carefully monitoring what we see, hear, and speak, we align closer to God's truth and further from the enemy's lies. [02:28] 2. **The Power of the Tongue**: Our words have the power to shape our reality. In spiritual warfare, the tongue is not just a tool but a weapon. By declaring God’s promises and truths, we can shift the atmosphere around us and bring divine intervention into our situations. This is not just about positive thinking but about wielding the scriptural power of declaration and decree. [28:53] 3. **Facing Giants with Faith**: Like David, we must approach our giants with faith, not in our own strength but in God’s provision and promises. Each stone David picked up was laden with faith and determination. We too must persist in our spiritual battles, armed with faith that does not waver in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. [37:30] 4. **Condemnation vs. Conviction**: Understanding the difference between condemnation from the enemy and conviction from the Holy Spirit is crucial. Condemnation pushes us down, leading to despair, while conviction is designed to restore and draw us closer to God. We must learn to reject the former and embrace the latter, allowing God’s light to correct and guide us. [27:46] 5. **Built for the Battle**: We are divinely designed not to shrink back from challenges but to face them head-on. This understanding should empower us to live boldly and confidently, knowing that we are equipped by God Himself to withstand and overcome the storms of life. This perspe

In today's sermon, I explored the theme of discernment and the importance of being in the right place spiritually to hear God's voice clearly. I began by addressing the battle of containment that the enemy wages against us, attempting to constrain us with distractions, hide resources, and blind us to God's purpose for our lives. I emphasized that while the enemy may attack the promise of God in our lives, he cannot stop it. We must recognize that we are called by God and that this calling opens the door to the impossible ([01:19]). I then spoke about internal security, highlighting that Jesus came to do the will of His Father, not to seek the approval of men. This internal security is crucial because it allows us to be secure in who God says we are, rather than being contained by the enemy's lies about our identity ([10:05]). I shared that we all have a calling from God, and by answering that call, we step into the realm of impossibilities made possible through faith ([12:10]). The sermon continued with the story of Peter walking on water, illustrating the importance of responding to Jesus' call, which enables us to do what we could never do on our own. This act of faith by Peter was a demonstration of not being contained by fear or doubt but stepping out in obedience to God's voice ([14:47]). I then discussed the critical difference between condemnation and conviction. The enemy condemns to trap us in despair, while the Holy Spirit convicts to lead us to salvation and abundant life. This distinction is vital in discerning the voices we hear and ensuring we are in the right place with God ([28:02]). I also addressed the current events and the need to hear from God amidst chaos. I urged the congregation to focus on God's voice, not to be swayed by fear or speculation about end times, but to be ready for the rapture, should it come ([17:37]). In the latter part of the sermon, I called for worship that goes beyond praise, entering into a deep reverence for God's holiness. Worship is an acknowledgment of God's otherness, His majesty, and His glory, which leads us into His presence ([30:39]). Finally, I concluded with a call to holiness, emphasizing that as we see God as holy and separate, we too are made holy and separate. This separation allows us to discern God's voice from the enemy's and to step out of any boxes that have been constraining us ([40:48]). Key Takeaways: 1. The enemy's strategy is to contain us, but by recognizing our calling from God, we can overcome these constraints and step into the realm of impossibilities. Our security in God's calling enables us to defy the enemy's attempts to limit us. ([01:19]) 2. Internal security in Christ is foundational for our spiritual journey. Jesus' focus on doing the will of His Father, regardless of human opinion, is a model for us to follow. We must find our identity and security in who God says we are, not in the affirmation of others. ([10:05]) 3. Answering God's call, like Peter did when he stepped out of the boat, opens the door to the impossible. Our faith in God's calling empowers us to do what we could never do on our own, breaking free from the containment of fear and doubt. ([14:47]) 4. Discerning the voice of God is crucial in our walk with Him. Understanding the difference between condemnation and conviction helps us to recognize the Holy Spirit's guidance, leading us to repentance and life, rather than the enemy's lies that lead to despair. ([28:02]) 5. True worship transcends praise; it is a profound recognition of God's holiness and otherness. As we worship, we enter into God's presence, and in His holiness, we find the strength to discern His voice and break free from any constraints the enemy has placed upon us. ([40:48])