Beyond the Weekend: EPIC
Stories of Trust, Failure and Faith That Point to Jesus
What does it look like to believe God, not just believe in God? This fall, we're diving into the raw, unfiltered stories of biblical heroes who wrestled with doubt, took dangerous detours, and discovered that trusting God means following him even when you can't see the outcome. Their epic journeys of trust, failure and faith all point to the ultimate hero—Jesus.
Key Messaging Points:
- There's a difference between believing in God and believing God
- God speaks in life's detours and disruptions
- Wrestling with God transforms us
- Trusting God means obeying before you see the outcome
- Every story of human struggle points to Jesus
Persevere
Read: Nehemiah 4:1-10 Listen: Nehemiah 4
So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart. Nehemiah 4:6
The Israelites’ muscles ache. Their hands are blistered. The work is physically and emotionally demanding. Their enemies threaten them relentlessly. Yet, Nehemiah and the people are devoted to the work at hand. Though they are tired, overwhelmed and afraid, they keep working, even with weapons strapped to their sides. They persevere because they know God called them to this important work. Though they are tempted to quit, the people do not give up, and they complete the wall in a staggering fifty-two days (Nehemiah 6:15).
It is common to face stretches of exhaustion and the temptation to give up in any rebuilding effort. Yet, it is during trials that we must persevere and be faithful to do what God called us to do. This is the spouse who commits to being faithful and perseveres even when times are hard. This is the employee who keeps showing up even when work has been incredibly demanding. This is the son or daughter who honors their parents, even in times of distress. Wherever we find ourselves, it is important to be faithful and not give up on what matters most.
TODAY: Take time to talk with God about situations that tempt you to give up. Admit your weaknesses and ask God for the strength to persevere. Use this prayer as a template: “God, I admit I am weary and tired from rebuilding _______. You are the God who supplies the strength I need to do what you desire for me to do. Please give me the strength to persevere. In Jesus’s name, Amen.” Explore Nehemiah’s story further on the Beyond the Weekend Podcast—find it wherever you listen to podcasts or on YouTube.
