Christmas at Create

Pastor Banks

5 minute read

 

The temperature is dropping. Christmas is coming!

As the season approaches, you often hear the timeless carol, “Mary, Did You Know?” If you haven’t heard it, you’ve probably been living under a rock. But when was the last time you listened to the lyrics? 

 

Think about Mary, the woman who first held the savior of the world in her hands. 

Before that moment, God had already ordained her purpose. Mary’s purpose started far before she was ever born. The same is true for you. Just as Jeremiah was called before he was formed in the womb, your calling precedes your very existence (Jeremiah 1:5). The Christmas story teaches you that God’s plans for your life are intentional and timeless. 

 

You’re Never Too Young or Too Old for Your Calling

Mary was just a young girl when the angel Gabriel visited her. Her age didn’t hinder God’s plan. You may be at an age where you think that you’re too young or too old to pursue your calling. Remember that God’s timing is perfect. When He calls, He equips, regardless of your age. Think of the child Mary bore, who grew up to change the world. Your age is not an obstacle when God is in control.

 

Walking in Your Calling Benefits Humanity

Jesus didn’t come into this world just for Himself or Mary; His birth had a purpose – to save humanity. Your calling, like Mary’s, is meant to bless others. Acts 10:38 reminds us that Jesus went about doing good and that we should too. This Christmas season, as you think about Mary’s role in God’s plan, consider how your calling can positively impact the lives of those around you. Just as Mary’s obedience brought forth the Savior, your obedience can bring hope, healing, and love into a hurting world.

 

Understand the Purpose of the Seed

Just as Mary’s seed, Jesus, had a purpose, your life carries a divine purpose too. Just as Jesus ascended, promising to return, you can live in anticipation, knowing that His purpose remains unchanging (Acts 1:9-11, Hebrews 13:8). When we consider the purpose of the Christmas season, we’re not just thinking about a historical event; we’re contemplating the ongoing work of God’s kingdom. Remember this. Jesus, who was born in a manger, is also the One who will return in glory.

Like Mary did, you can stand in the knowledge that the purpose of Christ’s birth is still unfolding in you. As you celebrate Christmas, remember that your life, like Mary’s, is part of God’s ongoing story of redemption and hope.



Me and My House

Pastor Ryan

5 minute read

 

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

With the holidays around the corner, I want to speak to you about something close to Ellie’s and my heart—

Serving the Lord as a household.

Your journey through life, much like those of the Israelites in the book of Joshua, might feel like it’s full of constant struggles. Anyone with teenagers knows this! It feels like the enemy is trying to pull you in a thousand different directions! But in the midst of it all, you have the opportunity to declare, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” I want the Word of God to bring understanding to you today. Here are the answers to the questions you might be asking yourself:

How Do You Serve the Lord?

Your commitment to serve the Lord begins with understanding His will. In Colossians 1:9-14, you find Paul’s prayer for the Colossian believers, a prayer that is just as powerful today as it was when it was first spoken. He prayed that the Colossian believers would be filled with the knowledge of God’s will through His Spirit, enabling them to lead lives worthy of the Lord. As a household, this should be your rallying cry! Seek His knowledge and wisdom. It’s the foundation upon which your service is built. I remember when my brother passed away in a tragic car accident. I had a massive choice in front of me whether to move home or not. I knew that decision would shape my family forever, and I had to seek God’s will through the spirit. I pray you do the same in similar moments.

I want to give four concrete ways to serve the Lord:

1. Bearing Fruit in Every Good Work

Galatians 5:22-23 reminds you of the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These virtues should manifest in your daily lives, not only to benefit you but also to influence those around you. Galatians 6:7-9 encourages you not to grow weary in doing good, for you will reap a harvest in due time if you persevere. Your children will see you as an example of these fruits.

2. Growing in the Knowledge of God

Ephesians 3:16-19 speaks of being strengthened with power through the Holy Spirit in your inner being. This divine empowerment enables you to grasp the immense love of Christ, a love that surpasses knowledge. Your growth in understanding His love propels you to live a life filled with the fullness of God. I cannot tell you the number of marriages I’ve seen fixed simply by understanding who God made them to be.

3. Being Strengthened with all Power according to His Glorious Might

James 1:2-4 tells you to consider it pure joy when you face trials because they produce perseverance and maturity. As a household, you must encourage one another to endure hardships, knowing that they refine your faith and prepare you for greater service. It’s funny. I don’t see this scripture hanging on many refrigerators, but it’s one of the most powerful scriptures for you. It gives your family’s pain purpose.

4. Giving Joyful Thanks to the Father because you Share in His Inheritance

Colossians 1:12 reminds you that you share in God’s inheritance, and Ephesians 2:10 emphasizes that you are His workmanship, created for good works. Let your homes be filled with the love, grace, and service that reflect the character of Christ.

Serving the Lord as a household is a sacred commitment. It’s a declaration that, regardless of life’s challenges, you choose to follow God together. As Paul wrote in Philippians 2:2-4, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your interests but each of you to the interests of others.” Let your homes be filled with the love, grace, and service that reflect the character of Christ. “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

 

Me and My House- Jesus Image

Pastor Michael

5 minute read

 

I always love when I get to visit Create Church.

I’m lucky to pastor a community of believers at Jesus Image in Orlando, but I want everyone to know that I consider Pastor Ryan and Ellie dear friends. It’s a blessing to share this word with you, my extended family. Today, I want to talk to you about something that’s at the core of our faith journey together: belonging to our church through thick and thin.

So, let’s get real and dive into what I feel are imperative reasons why this bond of belonging isn’t just a nice-to-have but an absolute must-have. The early church had it. Those early believers in the Book of Acts, they knew how important it was. The reason so many of us today see this kind of intentional fellowship as optional is because the church today is rife with a sense of individualism that corrupts what Jesus intended for the church.

The Incredible Power of Unity

Acts 2:42-47 tells a powerful story I hope you don’t forget easily. The early believers were all in – studying, praying, breaking bread, and just being there for each other.

Now, here’s the deal. When you’re united as a church family, something beautiful happens. We grow together, we learn together, and we lift each other up in times of need. Together, we shine a light so bright that others can’t help but be drawn to the love of Christ we share.

The Beauty of Community Support

In Acts 4:32-35 we see that the early believers were all heart – they shared what they had, and no one was left in the lurch. Even through conflict, they set aside resources for the most needy.

Being part of our church means we’re part of more than just a support network. We are in a spiritual body. And I want to point out that the leader of this body is worth double honor. That’s one of the reasons I ask you to pray for your leader, Pastor Ryan. The enemy has a target on his back and wants nothing more than to strip him of his community and support.

The Opportunity of Perseverance

Now, Acts 8:1-4 tells a story of hardship. Persecution scattered the early church like autumn leaves in the wind. Despite these hard times, they didn’t give up. They kept on spreading the Word, no matter what.

You see, belonging to our church isn’t all positives. There’s no such thing as a perfect church. Because as soon as you show up, it’s no longer perfect. People can be messy. We’ll face challenges; that’s a given. Our perseverance is a testament to God’s faithfulness, because when we pull through on the other side, we recognize that it wasn’t by our own strength.

Belonging to our church isn’t just a checkbox on our spiritual to-do list. It’s a calling, a divine appointment. In unity, we find strength. In your community, you find support. And in your perseverance, you find purpose.

So, as your friend from Florida, I’m encouraging you to hold tight to this incredible bond of belonging. We’re living out the essence of the early church every day. Remain devoted, united, and mission-driven.

Me and My House- Not in This House

Pastor Chris

4 minute read

 

Have you noticed how your kids change their behavior after they go over to a friends house?

When I was a child, I would go to one of my friend’s house and I’d come home and I’d say, “Dad, so-and-so would do this with their kids, and then they let their kids stay up late, and they watch any kind of cartoons they want. And my dad, without even skipping a beat, would say, “Well, you can go over there and live with the house.”

He taught me the valuable lesson and phrase I now use with my kids– “Not in this house.”

You live in your house, and being the owner of that house means you get to decide the rules. God’s house is the same, and too often in today’s age, Christians try to bring the world into the house of God. I just want to tell you that there’s all types of outside influences that are coming in trying to attack the family, trying to come in to take the father’s out of the home, coming in trying to take apart your family.

But I wanted to remind you this morning what’s found in Joshua 24:14-15

“Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

My conversation about cartoons ended abruptly when he would say, “Not in this house.” Today, “this house” represents and serves the Lord. I’m talking about not just the church house, but how we know that your bodies are the temple of the Holy Ghost. You are the temple of the Holy Ghost! you have the Holy Spirit on the inside of you and the enemy tries to do everything he can destroy your body. He does not want you or your family to succeed. I’m here to tell you that he’s after your kids. He’s trying to do everything he can to keep you from walking in the will and ways of God simply because that’s what God’s called us to do in this time.

There’s a lot of things that are slipping in the church today that God never intended to slip into the church. There’s a lot of things that people or people bring into the church house that God never intended for us to participate in. So why does the church still look like the world in different places? Simply because we have allowed some things to come in that God never intended!

We’re not forced to look like the world. But so many of us cave to the pressure. We believe that the enemy has been defeated in this house! We believe that we’ve already won in this house. Do you believe that today? Will you be one that stands up against the enemy and say,

“Not in this house!

Charting Your Course- Finishing the Race

Pastor Gordon

6 minute read

 

I played football for the Dallas Cowboys for eight years, and during that time, I learned about pushing myself to the limits. What’s more important, though, is to learn what God can do when our strength runs out.

In a world often defined by natural limitations, there exists a realm where the supernatural prevails. This is the realm of miracles, where God’s extraordinary power intersects with our ordinary lives. Just as seeds need careful tending to yield a bountiful harvest, our faith and actions can prepare the ground for miracles to take root. I want to draw your attention to Joshua 24:14-24 and explore how to sow the seeds of miracles.

1. The Great God – King Jesus is Perpetually in Charge

We serve a great God who reigns over all things. Acknowledging His sovereignty and allowing Him to guide our lives creates fertile soil for miracles. Remember that King Jesus is perpetually in charge, ensuring that His divine plan unfolds in due time.

2. A Great Cause – Brings Forth the Impossible!

Great causes birth miracles. Just like David’s unwavering belief in God enabled him to overcome the giant Goliath (1 Samuel 17:29), identifying a noble purpose and pursuing it with faith can lead to miraculous outcomes. Resistance and adversity often accompany great causes, but they serve as catalysts for spiritual strength, which is far greater than natural strength.

3. Great Love – Be Blessed by God!

Our relationship with God is grounded in His great love for us. We can approach Him with confidence, knowing that His faithful love endures forever (Psalm 66:20). This enduring love requires us to reciprocate by putting Him at the center of our lives. When we do so, we create an environment where miracles are more likely to occur.

4. Great Prayer – God is Attentive to Our Prayers!

Prayer is our direct line to the supernatural. Acts 16:23-25 illustrates that even in the darkest of circumstances, prayer can lead to breakthroughs. When we engage in heartfelt conversations with God, we invite His miraculous intervention into our lives.

5. Great Devotion – Triggers the Supernatural!

The story of Solomon’s divided heart in 1 Kings 11 serves as a cautionary tale. Wholehearted devotion to God is vital, for it triggers His blessings and safeguards us from straying into idolatry. Our commitment to God plays a pivotal role in attracting His miraculous works.

6. Great Giving – Opens the Door for More

Generosity, both in our resources and our hearts, has the power to open doors for miracles. Ezra 3:10-11 reminds us that the people’s extravagant giving marked a significant moment in the building of the Lord’s temple. Similarly, our acts of generosity can pave the way for God’s supernatural intervention in our lives.

7. Great Miracles – Draw & Save

Miracles serve as powerful testimonies that draw people to God. John 11:43-52 recounts the resurrection of Lazarus, which led many to believe in Jesus. Great miracles can not only transform individuals but also save entire communities.

Ultimately, great miracles draw great multitudes. As illustrated in John 12:12-19, when the world witnesses the miraculous work of God, it cannot help but follow Him. Our faithfulness in the small moments of life contributes to the unfolding of these divine acts. Miracles are not accidental occurrences; they are the product of prepared hearts and devoted lives. By sowing these seeds of faith, love, prayer, devotion, and generosity, we cultivate an environment where God’s supernatural intervention becomes a natural part of our journey. May we continue to trust in the great God who orchestrates miracles, confident that our lives are in His hands.

 

Charting Your Course- Finishing the Race

Pastor Gordon

6 minute read

 

I played football for the Dallas Cowboys for eight years, and during that time, I learned about pushing myself to the limits. What’s more important, though, is to learn what God can do when our strength runs out.

In a world often defined by natural limitations, there exists a realm where the supernatural prevails. This is the realm of miracles, where God’s extraordinary power intersects with our ordinary lives. Just as seeds need careful tending to yield a bountiful harvest, our faith and actions can prepare the ground for miracles to take root. I want to draw your attention to Joshua 24:14-24 and explore how to sow the seeds of miracles.

1. The Great God – King Jesus is Perpetually in Charge

We serve a great God who reigns over all things. Acknowledging His sovereignty and allowing Him to guide our lives creates fertile soil for miracles. Remember that King Jesus is perpetually in charge, ensuring that His divine plan unfolds in due time.

2. A Great Cause – Brings Forth the Impossible!

Great causes birth miracles. Just like David’s unwavering belief in God enabled him to overcome the giant Goliath (1 Samuel 17:29), identifying a noble purpose and pursuing it with faith can lead to miraculous outcomes. Resistance and adversity often accompany great causes, but they serve as catalysts for spiritual strength, which is far greater than natural strength.

3. Great Love – Be Blessed by God!

Our relationship with God is grounded in His great love for us. We can approach Him with confidence, knowing that His faithful love endures forever (Psalm 66:20). This enduring love requires us to reciprocate by putting Him at the center of our lives. When we do so, we create an environment where miracles are more likely to occur.

4. Great Prayer – God is Attentive to Our Prayers!

Prayer is our direct line to the supernatural. Acts 16:23-25 illustrates that even in the darkest of circumstances, prayer can lead to breakthroughs. When we engage in heartfelt conversations with God, we invite His miraculous intervention into our lives.

5. Great Devotion – Triggers the Supernatural!

The story of Solomon’s divided heart in 1 Kings 11 serves as a cautionary tale. Wholehearted devotion to God is vital, for it triggers His blessings and safeguards us from straying into idolatry. Our commitment to God plays a pivotal role in attracting His miraculous works.

6. Great Giving – Opens the Door for More

Generosity, both in our resources and our hearts, has the power to open doors for miracles. Ezra 3:10-11 reminds us that the people’s extravagant giving marked a significant moment in the building of the Lord’s temple. Similarly, our acts of generosity can pave the way for God’s supernatural intervention in our lives.

7. Great Miracles – Draw & Save

Miracles serve as powerful testimonies that draw people to God. John 11:43-52 recounts the resurrection of Lazarus, which led many to believe in Jesus. Great miracles can not only transform individuals but also save entire communities.

Ultimately, great miracles draw great multitudes. As illustrated in John 12:12-19, when the world witnesses the miraculous work of God, it cannot help but follow Him. Our faithfulness in the small moments of life contributes to the unfolding of these divine acts. Miracles are not accidental occurrences; they are the product of prepared hearts and devoted lives. By sowing these seeds of faith, love, prayer, devotion, and generosity, we cultivate an environment where God’s supernatural intervention becomes a natural part of our journey. May we continue to trust in the great God who orchestrates miracles, confident that our lives are in His hands.

Charting Your Course- Do You Believe In Miracles?

Bob Beaudine

5 minute read

 

“Do you believe in miracles?”

Al Michaels’ famous words have echoed in sports history since the famed hockey game in 1980. But the words should be asked of every Christian. Do you believe in miracles?

In a world often clouded with skepticism and doubt, the belief in the supernatural stands as a beacon of hope. These extraordinary events, seemingly beyond the laws of nature, have been documented throughout history, reminding you of the power God has called you to. The question becomes then, not do miracles exist, but what role do you play in experiencing these miraculous occurrences? I want to explore with you the three key aspects: Stirring Up, Activation, and Thinking Bigger.

 

1. Do You Stir Them Up?

Miracles are not random acts of cosmic chance. They often lie dormant, awaiting the spark of faith and intention to come to life. Think about how Peter walked on water. He expected something supernatural at that moment. Remember, none of the other disciples stepped out. Just as a skilled chef blends ingredients to create a masterpiece, you can stir up miracles through your faith, prayers, and actions. Your belief in the miraculous opens the door for these awe-inspiring events to manifest in your life.

 

2. How Do You Activate Them?

Miracles are not passive occurrences; they require action. Think of a dormant seed in the ground. It holds the potential for life but needs the right conditions to grow. Similarly, you must take steps to activate the miraculous in your life. Jesus encountered many strangers who were not expecting anything special, such as the man at the pool of Bethesda. Yet so many others sought out Jesus to see the supernatural, like the man lowered from the hole in the room or the woman with the issue of blood. This activation involves aligning your actions and intentions with your faith, often stepping out of your comfort zones.

 

3. How Do You Think Bigger?

In challenging times, it’s easy to focus on the immediate and tangible, but miracles often come when you dare to think bigger. Remember the story of the five loaves and two fish feeding thousands? The miracle happened when thinking transcended the confines of scarcity. When you envision a future beyond your current circumstances, you open the door for the miraculous to shape your reality.

 

Consider Jeremiah 1:5, “Before the foundation of the world, God knew you, chose you, and set you apart.” This verse reminds you that you are not a mere bystander in your life. You are a co-creator with the Divine, capable of stirring up, activating, and thinking bigger to witness miracles.

So now Jesus would ask you, “Do you believe in miracles?” More importantly, do you believe in your role in making them happen? Embrace your faith, take action, and expand your vision. Miracles are not distant events from the past. God has plans for them today.

Charting Your Course- Before Jesus Returns

Paul Teske

5 minute read

 

I want to talk about something that very few people are discussing today.

Jesus is coming back. And many Christians aren’t ready.

While the anticipation of the second coming of Christ is a foundational belief for Christians worldwide, I find so many underprepared. I want you to be equipped with the knowledge to be ready. As you look forward to that glorious day when He returns, you are called to be diligent in your preparation. While you do not know the exact hour or day, Scripture provides you with clear guidance on how to be ready.

1. Deepen Your Relationship with Christ
To be truly prepared for Christ’s return, there’s no substitute for a personal relationship with Him. Your relationship should involve consistent prayer, reading the Bible, and seeking His presence daily. It’s not about following rituals but cultivating a genuine connection. As you draw near to Christ, He transforms you from the inside out, aligning your heart with His will. This closeness helps you discern His voice, recognize His work in your life, and become more like Him.

Moreover, deepening your relationship with Christ equips you to withstand the challenges of the world. When you encounter difficulties, you can lean on His strength, find comfort in His promises, and exhibit the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. James 1 is a great place in scripture to find direction. These qualities are essential as you navigate a world in need of His light.

2. Live a Life of Love and Service
Preparing for Christ’s return involves more than personal piety; it extends to how you interact with others. Jesus emphasized love for God and love for your neighbors as the greatest commandments. Living a life of love means demonstrating kindness, compassion, and forgiveness to those around you. It entails being a peacemaker and seeking reconciliation when conflicts arise.

Additionally, service is a hallmark of Christian living. Christ Himself was a servant, and He calls you to follow in His footsteps. As you reach out to the less fortunate, care for the needy, and advocate for justice, you embody the love of Christ in tangible ways. Your acts of service become a testimony to the world, showcasing the transformative power of Christ’s love.

3. Watch and Pray with Expectation
Jesus frequently emphasized the importance of vigilance and watchfulness regarding His return. You are encouraged to be spiritually awake, discerning the signs of the times. While you may not know the precise moment of His coming, you can remain alert and prayerful.
Prayer is your lifeline to God, where you express your hopes, fears, and supplications. In these conversations with your Heavenly Father, you can also pray for His kingdom to come and His will to be done on Earth as it is in heaven. By maintaining an attitude of expectancy, you align your heart with the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan.

Preparing for the second coming of Christ is not a passive endeavor but an active, life-transforming journey. It begins with a deep and authentic relationship with Jesus Christ, continues with a life characterized by love and service, and culminates in an attitude of watchfulness and prayer. As you follow these three essential steps, you will grow in readiness for the day when our Lord and Savior returns to claim His own. May you, as a faithful believer, eagerly await His coming, living your life in a manner that reflects His love, grace, and truth to a world in need.

Charting Your Course- Who’s Your Shepard?

Pastor Banks 

4 minute read

 

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

Psalm 23

 

Have you ever pondered who’s charting the course of your life? As believers, we are called to be led by the Spirit of the Lord. In our journey, there are five critical influences that can shape our course: I want to explore these points through the lens of Joseph’s life, a remarkable example of God’s dream charting the course of a faithful servant.

1. The dream is not just about you – It’s about serving the purpose of God by serving others.

Joseph’s life exemplifies this truth. His dreams weren’t merely personal ambitions; they were God’s plan to save his family and the region from famine. Likewise, our dreams often align with God’s broader purposes, calling us to serve others as we walk in God’s plan.

2. The dream should bring us closer to God and shape us into who He wants us to become.

Throughout Joseph’s journey, we see how God’s dream transformed him into a person of character and godly influence. As we pursue our dreams, they should draw us nearer to God, molding us into vessels that can fulfill His purpose.

3. The Dream has a delivery date determined by God.

Joseph couldn’t rush the fulfillment of his dream. God’s timing is perfect, and every dream He places within us has an appointed hour for realization. Trust in His divine schedule, even when circumstances seem contrary.

4. The Dream has a counterfeit version that will show up along the way.

Counterfeit dreams often arise to distract or deter us from God’s true purpose. Just as Joseph faced temptations and detours, we too may encounter challenges that test our commitment. 

5. God’s dream. Stay vigilant and discerning.

The Dream makes us uncomfortable with where we are. Discomfort can be a sign that you’re on the right path. Joseph’s journey was marked by discomfort, but it drove him to rely on God. Embrace the discomfort as a catalyst for growth and a reminder of your dependence on the Lord.

 

As you chart your course with God’s dream, remember that it’s not merely about your ambitions; it’s about serving God’s purpose by serving others. Let it draw you closer to God, shape your character, and teach you patience. Recognize that God has a precise delivery date for your dream, be cautious of counterfeit versions, and embrace the discomfort that often accompanies the dream. Just as Joseph’s life unfolded according to God’s plan, trust that yours will too, guided by the Good Shepherd who leads you on paths of righteousness toward an predestined end filled with His goodness and mercy. Now I want you to try something, I want you to personalize Psalms 23. Recite it again, but this time, know who your shepherd is. 


Charting Your Course- Navigating Life’s Headwinds

Pastor Ryan 

5 minute read

 

Nothing surprises God, but plenty of things surprise us.

If you’re anything like I am, you often encounter headwinds—those challenging and opposing forces that push against your plans and dreams. Maybe you’re currently in that season, as I am. I want to share with you the answers to those trials, as they’re found in Scripture. The account of the Apostle Paul, as found in the Book of Acts, describes the headwinds he faced on his way to Rome. These headwinds offer you valuable insight for navigating your own challenges. Here are seven takeaways:

1. Headwinds Often Follow a Big Vision

You’ve received a divine calling or prophetic word to follow your dreams and purpose in life. These are monumental visions, filled with your own destiny. Yet, it’s crucial to understand that significant visions are often followed by significant headwinds. Challenges and opposition can arise when you’re moving in the direction of your God-given calling. Remember that God’s calling on your life is greater than any headwind you may face.

2. Headwinds Can Make it Difficult to Stay on Course

You’ve had moments when everything seemed favorable, but then headwinds disrupted your course. You’ve sailed through adversity, landing at unexpected destinations. Sometimes, headwinds make it challenging to stay on course. They can lead you to unexpected places and disrupt your plans. During these times, it’s vital to remain steadfast and trust that God is still in control.

3. Headwinds Can Cost You A Lot of Time

As you’ve battled challenges, precious time was lost. When you encounter opposition and difficulties, it can feel like time is slipping away. Family troubles, financial strain, and spiritual plateaus can all seem all-consuming in moments, but remember, those moments are smaller than they often feel. Yet, it’s essential to remember that God’s timing is perfect. Even during delays and setbacks, He is orchestrating every detail according to His plan.

4. Headwinds Require Godly Wisdom

You’ve faced moments when you needed to make difficult decisions amidst headwinds. Seeking godly wisdom became essential. Sometimes, you had to make tough choices, even if they seemed contrary to popular opinion. Trust that God will guide you through the storm.

5. Headwinds Require Mid-Course Adjustments

In the midst of life’s storms, you’ve learned to make adjustments. You’ve thrown excess baggage overboard and taken actions to stabilize your ship. When headwinds hit, it’s critical to be flexible and willing to make mid-course adjustments. These adaptations can help you weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side. Paul watched as precious merchant cargo was tossed over the side, but knew his destination was secure.

6. Headwinds Can Rob You or Give You Hope

After many days of enduring the storm, your hope was waning, but in the darkest hour, an angel encouraged you. Headwinds can either steal your hope or strengthen it. In your trials, remember that God is with you, and He often brings hope when it seems all is lost.

7. Headwinds Cause The Real Leaders to Rise Up

You’ve seen real leaders emerge during crises. In challenging times, real leaders rise to the occasion. When facing headwinds, remember that God equips and empowers leaders to guide others through the storm. The Roman guard was ready to kill all the prisoners to keep them from escaping, yet Paul showed true leadership, assuring someone in authority that God was in control.

8. Headwinds Will Cause You to Trust God Completely

As the ship grounded, everyone had to trust God completely for their safety. In life’s headwinds, you often reach a point where your only option is to trust God fully. It’s in these moments that your faith grows and you experience His miraculous intervention.

9. Headwinds Will Cause Your Faith to Grow

On the island of Malta, Paul’s faith was on full display as he ministered healing. He even survived a bite from a venomous snake! In the midst of headwinds, your faith can flourish. God can use your challenges to bring about spiritual growth and revival in your life.