“I WILL” (Part Four): On Becoming “Better Men”
A Message to Men: You Matter!
At the core of every community, men play a crucial role - as pillars of support, guardians of tradition, and catalysts for progress. At Cornerstone Church, this couldn't be more accurate. With a collective consciousness, we recognize that the pursuit of better methods in building our church takes a backseat to the quest for 'better men.' The key is simple: as men's value rises, so does the spiritual strength of our church.
Men of Value: To God, Church, and Yourself
We value every person's worth and unique contribution to our community. But it's more than just filling a seat or completing a headcount. Your journey, challenges, and victories shape our shared story. Recognize that:
To God, you are his masterpiece, divinely crafted with a purpose.
To the Church, you are an indispensable architect in our collective vision.
To Yourself, your journey is a treasured thread in the tapestry of our fellowship.
The Divine Design: Created in His Image for Relationship
At the beginning of time, in the grand design of the universe, humanity emerged. Created by God, we were not just brought into existence, but uniquely formed in His image. Our purpose is to connect with our Creator, and this fundamental objective shapes three essential goals for every individual:
To Know God: An unquenchable quest to understand the Divine.
To Love God: A profound affection and reverence for our Maker.
To Serve God: A life lived in harmony with God's plan.
Take a moment to reflect on this truth and adjust your direction if necessary. The competing demands of life may have led you off track, but today presents an opportunity for realignment. Embrace this divine moment that awaits you to reset your path.
Satan’s Agenda: Understanding Our Battles
It’s no secret that every effort to strengthen our connection with God invites opposition. Satan tirelessly conspires to break the bond that anchors us to the heart of God. Understanding our opponent's tactics only reaffirms the importance of remaining vigilant and resilient on our spiritual path.
The Rallying Cry: "I’ll Be Back"
"I'll be back" - these three empowering words transcend the silver screen. They serve as a battle cry for every person who has stumbled, fumbled, or crumbled under the weight of life's trials.
This is not the end; today signifies a turning point, a juncture for renewal and resurgence. While Satan may have claimed a temporary victory, the battle is far from concluded.
Trials Can Make Us Feel Like We’ve Failed At Times.
Life's Bruises: A Universal Experience
Life is tough for everyone, regardless of gender. Trials can make us feel like we've failed, but it's important to remember that stumbling is part of being human.
The Scriptures are punctuated with the falls of even the most righteous—Moses, David, Peter, the list is extensive. Yet, their stories were far from over, and neither is ours.
The Vital Question: Will You Rise?
Proverbs 24:16 Serves as a reminder that the true challenge lies not in the act of falling itself, but in our ability to rise gracefully after experiencing a fall. This is where faith transforms from an abstract concept to a tangible action. It's not just a matter of believing in God but trusting Him Trusting God means that we let go of our pride and surrender to His will, even when it doesn't align with our own.
The Parable of Resilience: The Rubber Ball and the Egg
Imagine holding a rubber ball and an egg, both dropped from the same height. Their fates diverge not by the shared circumstance but by the essence of their being. Recognize that you were designed for resilience, like the ball that bounces back, like the palm tree that withstands hurricane forces only to rise anew when the storm stops.
The Mandate to Men: Realize, You Are Built to Win
At the heart of every man lies a natural aversion to defeat. Despite our ability to control our emotions, the desire to triumph remains unchanged. Samson, a biblical figure of strength and vulnerability, embodies this. Even in his darkest moments - blind and enslaved - he sought a final touch of divine grace, one more opportunity to fulfill his God-given potential.
Seeking Restoration: Samson's Prayer for One More Anointing
In times of despair, remember Samson's plea: "God, anoint me once more." It's a blueprint to reclaim greatness, guided by God.
Awakening the Slumbering Spirit Within
We all have a dormant portion inside of us, just longing to be awakened. It's time we do so! The first step is realizing that God has equipped you with the capacity to rise.
Next, acknowledge His divine purpose in your life. It takes courage, but it's worth it. Like a Mustang ready to gallop, recognize your innate potential and purpose. Don't let perceived limitations define your destiny.
The Power to Rebuild: Anchored in God's Promises
God's Word is inundated with promises of restoration. "I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten, the hopper, the destroyer, and the cutter. The great army sent among you.", Joel 2:25 speaks to every man longing for a second chance, assuring us that it's not just possible to rebuild—it's a divine guarantee.
Whether it's your marriage, your career, your health, or your faith, it's time to stake your claim in those promises and refuse to be fielded by past failures.
God's Word is Filled With Promises of Restoration.
The Threefold Strategy for a Comeback
Awaken Your Spirit Man: Like Samson, call on God for a fresh anointing.
Avoid Distractions: Lay aside anything that hampers your walk with God.
Choose Faith Over Facts: Belief in the possibility of change, leaning not on what is seen but on the promises of the Almighty.
You Are Designed for Victory
Everyone is equipped with the innate power to rebuild and renew their lives, regardless of past failures or setbacks. Anchored in God's promises, we're empowered to awaken the slumbering spirit within us, eliminate distractions, and place faith over facts. Remember, we are not defined by our circumstances but by our resilience in overcoming them.
Awaken your spirit, embrace the quest, and keep walking in faith. For through God's grace, every man can declare: "I WILL. I'll be back."
