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D I S C O U R AG E M E N T

UNITED CHRISTIAN BROADCASTERS

Slay Your Own Giants

with principles gleaned from David!

Facing
Your Giants
Max Lucado
Max Lucado goes beyond the
storytelling to offer readers concrete
action steps to help slay their giants
using the metaphor of the five stones
David chose in his Goliath quest: The
stones represent the past, prayer,
priority, passion and persistence. Max
Lucados lively language and casual
style will appeal to the most reluctant
readers, yet his spiritual depth will
challenge and amaze.

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vercoming
D I S C O U R AG E M E N T

Index of abbreviations
All scripture references are from the King James Version, unless otherwise noted.
AMP Amplified Bible NIV New International Version NAS New American Standard
NKJ New King James Version NCV New Century Version TM The Message TLB The Living Bible
NRS New Revised Standard Version PHPS Phillips N.T. in Modern English GWT Gods Word Translation
TEV Todays English Version NEB New English Bible

Contact details
UCB Operations Centre, Westport Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 4JF
Tel: 0845 60 40 401 (local rate call) Fax: 01782 764 966
Email: ucb@ucb.co.uk Web: ucb.co.uk

UNITED CHRISTIAN BROADCASTERS

THE

vercoming

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o
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o
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t
In
SERIES

The giant you are fighting today is not bigger than the God who is living
within you. greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world
(1 John 4:4). Failing does not make you a failure, quitting does, not seeing
beyond it does, not learning from it does, not growing
stronger because of it does. Concerning the heroes of faith
in Hebrews we read: out of weakness [they] were made
strong (Hebrews 11:34). And thats what God wants to
do for you! Youre not unique, and youre not alone
we all struggle on some level.
Satan attacked Jesus three times in the wilderness,
why? To keep Him from fulfilling His Fathers will on
earth. So dont think hell give you a free ride. But
Jesus overcame satan using the weapons of prayer
and the Word of God. You can too.
So come on, learn to stand up in the power of Gods
might and conquer the giant youre facing. Thats what
this book is all about. Read it often; keep it with you.
Turn to it when the battle rages and youll discover that its
timeless principles will turn your defeats into victories.
Bob Gass Author of The Word for Today

All the Prayer Points throughout the

Overcoming Series have been written by

Carl Brettle, UCB Prayer Mobiliser. Carl is
also the editor of Prayer Magazine.

The I-Only Syndrome

... I, EVEN I ONLY, AM LEFT...
1 KINGS 19:10

Depression convinced Elijah that nobody else was as badly off as him. He felt
terminally unique. We all go through it. Behind your neighbours smile, or the
nameplate on your bosss door, there are struggles they cant talk about. So they
live in quiet despair.
Dr Martin Luther King Jr said, We may have arrived on different ships, but were all
in the same boat now. Paul wrote, No test or temptation...is beyond the course of
what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let
you down; Hell never let you be pushed past your limit; Hell always be there to help
you come through it (1 Corinthians 10:13 TM).
Before every crown theres a cross. Bunyan wrote Pilgrims Progress in prison.
Florence Nightingale, too ill to move from bed, reorganised the hospitals of
England. Pasteur, semi-paralysed by a stroke, was tireless in his attack on
disease. Francis Parkman couldnt work for more than five minutes at a time. His
eyesight was so bad that he could only scrawl gigantic words on a
manuscript. Yet he wrote 20 magnificent volumes of history.
Youre not alone! Listen: ...nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today
or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable - absolutely nothing can get
between us and Gods love... (Romans 8:38-39 TM). What more could you ask for?

When Its Not What You Expected

...EVERY DETAIL IN OUR LIVES...IS WORKED INTO
SOMETHING GOOD ROMANS 8:28.

Did you hear about the little boy who complained to his grandmother that things
were bad? He was in trouble at school, his dad forgot his pocket-money, and his
best friend went fishing without him. His grandmother, who was baking a cake
at the time, listened patiently, and then asked him if hed like a snack. Sure, he
replied. So she said, Here, have some cooking oil. No way! he said. Well, how
about a couple of raw eggs? Gross! he exclaimed. What about some baking
powder? she asked. Grandma, those are all yucky! he said. Yes, she replied.
On their own, all of them seem pretty bad, but when you put them together, they
make a great cake!
Sometimes you ask God for one thing and He gives you another, because, while you
think you know what you want, He knows what you really need. The truth is God
knows more about what you need than you do.
Listen: He knows us far better than we know ourselves...Thats why we can be so
sure that every detail in our lives...is worked into something good
(Romans 8:26-28 TM). Did you hear that? Everything that comes your way will have
His fingerprints on it, and be designed for your good!

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Lord, I thank You

for what You enable
me to do each day.
I find rest in the
knowledge that
Your love extends
to me and that Your
hearts desire is to
see me flourish.
Help me understand
there might be a
higher principle
at work in my life,
which in time will
bring to bear a
wonderful result,
for which I will give
thanks. Amen

The tr uth
is God
knows
more about
what you
need than
you do.

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Lord, I recognise that

sometimes I find it
hard to realise that
You love me no
matter what; Your
Love for me has no
boundaries. Keep me
close to Your heart,
Lord, that I might be a
fountain of
encouragement and
help me ignore
unfounded criticism
when it does come
my way, Amen.

Receiving Gods Love

ABSOLUTELY NOTHING CAN GET BETWEEN US AND
GODS LOVE ROMANS 8:39.

Ever look at your shortcomings and doubt Gods love for you? Or wonder how He could
still care for you, given the things you do? Listen: Do you think anyone is going to be
able to drive a wedge between us and Christs love for us? There is no way! Not trouble,
not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not
backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in Scripture (Romans 8:35 TM).
No matter how unworthy you may feel today, you cannot shut off, stop, or in any way
diminish the flow of Gods love towards you. Nothing can change the way He feels about
you. Nothing can alter the fact that Hes going to continue to love you no matter what
you do or say. Never lose sight of that, because Gods love will: a) heal your emotions b)
cause your self-esteem to grow and c) put a foundation of worth and dignity under you.
Its what allows you to respect yourself! Itll also motivate you to discipline yourself. You
see, when you truly value something, you want to protect it, and develop it. Gods love
actually gives you the capacity to love yourself, and then love others. When you can do
that, the circle is complete.
Think: youre not just chosen by God, youre eternally, passionately, tenderly, and
unconditionally, loved by Him. Theres no greater blessing and no greater assurance
than that!

Keep Praising
THEN HE TOUCHED HER, AND INSTANTLY SHE COULD STAND
STRAIGHT. HOW SHE PRAISED AND THANKED GOD!
LUKE 13:13.

How would
you have
acted if
youd been
chronically
ill for 18
years, and
suddenly
Jesus made
you whole?

Alarm off.
Kettle boiled.
Prayer time.
UCB on.
Great day.

As long as she needed their help, the people around this woman had no problem with
her. But when Jesus set her free and she started praising Him, they couldnt handle it.
Actually, they wanted to throw her out of their church!
How would you have acted if youd been chronically ill for 18 years, and suddenly Jesus
made you whole? People fall over themselves about getting a prize on a TV show. They
scream and hug total strangers when their team wins, and the world says its OK. But
show a little emotion because of what Gods done for you, and theyll call you a fanatic.
No problem; its easier to cool down a fanatic, than heat up a corpse!
So, what are you going to do? Do what she did! She carried on, and let Jesus deal with
her critics. While she was glorifying Him, He was dealing with them. Thats how it
works. While youre praising God, Hes fighting for you. While youre exalting His name,
His angels are coming into your hospital room, or surrounding your loved one whos in
danger, or going before you to open doors.
If people are upset because you praise the Lord, thats their problem! Therell always
be a critic. There may even be one in your house, criticising you for praising Him in the
shower; or at work, mocking you for just giving thanks before you eat lunch. Pay them
no attention. Just keep praising God, regardless of the background noise!

Wake up to Robbie Frawley

and the UCB UK family
every weekday morning
on UCB UK from 6-9am.
Join us on
DAB digital radio*
Sky 0125
Cable 914 or
online at ucbmedia.co.uk/uk
*visit ucbmedia.co.uk/dab to check for DAB
coverage in your area.

Robbie Frawley,
The
UCB
TV Team
UCB
Presenter

,
D
O
G
TRUST
Y
R
R
O
W
DONT
W

hen I needed to find a new place to live and a church to be part of I worried endlessly. I
spent months considering the options and so many times I made plans that fell through.
Money was tight and I couldnt see how I could find somewhere to live without having a tough
commute to work.

The wildcard was a flat in an area that I didnt know; it was the least favourite of all possibilities but I
decided to take a look at it and quickly realised it was affordable, comfortable, secure and much better than
anything else I had considered. Within three weeks I had moved in and felt immediately settled.
Less than two minutes away was a church I had never heard of. I walked in and immediately loved it! I was
made very welcome and love being a part of that ministry.
On reflection, I am amazed to think that my last resort was the best outcome to my search! Proverbs 16:9 puts
it this way: In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.
God just doesnt work the way you and I do. It is an obvious truth but in so many different situations we worry,
make plans, and think we have it figured out, only to realise that Gods plan is different.
6

Remember, God holds all things in His hands. Every resource in the universe is freely
and instantly available to Almighty God. He is able to give

us all the riches of the universe; He is also able to deny us the things we want in order to provide the things
that we need.
Regardless of our circumstances, we must dare to trust that His love for us remains unchanging and that His
plans continue to be for our good. Scripture assures us that the plans of Almighty God will not fail.
Gods primary concern is not to see us rich or successful but to see us know Him and become more like Christ
each day. He will provide all that we need to help us in achieving that; even if what we need is a time of loss,
poverty or lack!
True security will never be found in the achievement of our fragile, finite goals but in learning to trust our God,
the only One who is perfect, infinite and unchanging.
Do not worry about the future, or whether your needs will be met. Instead, take hold of the privilege that is
yours through Jesus Christ; the privilege of knowing and trusting that Gods plans for you are good and His
plans with your cooperation will be fully successful and more amazing than you can imagine.
Take that step of trust go on, I dare you!!
Libby Cooper,
North Staffordshire Youth for Christ - www.yfc.co.uk

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Thank You, Lord,

that even if people
have said or done
things that I cannot
stop or excuse, Your
love is sure, Your
grace is
sufficient and Your
mercy absolute.
Help me let go
of the things that
discourage me, and
embrace the
perspective of
Heaven; to love
everyone.
Amen.

If this booklet
has helped you
would you consider
making a donation
to UCB so that
we can help
other people.
Donate by visiting
ucb.co.uk/donate or
call 0845 60 40 401

Can You Pass The Rejection Test?

Stay In The Game!

HE CAME UNTO HIS OWN, AND HIS OWN RECEIVED HIM NOT JOHN
1:11 KJV..

BRINGTHE BOOKS, ESPECIALLY THE PARCHMENTS

2 TIMOTHY 4:13 NIV.

Would you spend your last night on earth with someone if you knew they were going
to betray you the next day? Jesus did. He is faithful, even when we are not. There is no
greater opportunity to grow in love than when youve been mistreated. Look at Jesus on
the cross: He asked His Father to forgive those who ripped the flesh from His back and
drove the nails into His hands.
How you handle rejection reveals whether or not youve truly died to self; for its
impossible to hurt a dead man! On the other hand, being rejected without being
offended is one of the greatest demonstrations of spiritual maturity. Its being Christlike!
In the Old Testament a priest was disqualified from ministry if he had scabs
[an unhealed wound] (Leviticus 21:20). Why? Because it made him touchy. He couldnt
allow you to get close to him, in case you brushed up against his sore spot. It showed
up in the things he said and kept him from functioning the way God wanted him to.
Ever been around a scabby preacher? He preaches out of his own unhealed areas, and
expounds from the depths of his own struggles. But God has a solution. Listen: I will
restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds saith the Lord (Jeremiah
30:17). God wants to heal you, so that through you, He can reach out and make others
whole. Wont you let Him?

Sitting on Death Row, with only days left to live and no hope of a reprieve, Paul writes
to Timothy and says: a) Bring my books. He wants to keep taking in! b) And bring
my writing paper. He wants to keep giving out! What an attitude! He doesnt ask for
an attorney, because real purpose needs no defence. Time will tell the world what you
did. And he doesnt ask for better accommodation, for hes learned to be content
(Philippians 4:11 NIV).
First, he sends for a book, because he knows that as long as youre alive you must
continue to grow, otherwise youre just taking up space. Reading allows you to transcend
any situation and explore new worlds. Knowledge keeps your mind sharp and your soul
free. Peter says, Grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord (2 Peter 3:18).
Next, Paul sends for writing paper, because he wants to keep making a difference. He
ignores his circumstances, grabs his pen and continues to be productive. No tears. No
gut-wrenching displays of self-pity. Ive still got something else to say, and I want to say
it! Im not done yet! The art of living is to keep giving to the end!
Even on the cross, with nails piercing His hands and His feet, Jesus continued to
minister; and He is our example! So Paul, the old Father of Truth, teaches us the most
important lesson of all: never get out of the game, for even in the last few seconds, a
goal is still possible.

Look For Gods Hand In It!

By Gods Help - You Can!

THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED, THE SAME IS

BECOME THE HEAD OF THE CORNER: THIS IS THE LORDS
DOING, AND IT IS MARVELLOUS IN OUR EYES
MATTHEW 21:42 KJV.

Sometimes the rejection of others turns out to be the Lords doing. After Joseph had
been betrayed by his brothers and slandered by Potiphars wife, he said, you meant
evil against me; but God meant it for good (Genesis 50:20 NKJ).
How often has something happened in your life that you later realised was necessary?
If you hadnt sustained this, or walked through that, you wouldnt be ready for the
blessings youre enjoying right now. Its when you see the hand of God in it that you
begin to understand that what the enemy meant for your destruction, God used for your
development. To be more than a conqueror means to stand up and say, Heres how I
see it. It took all Ive been through to make me who I am today and to teach me what
I know. I choose to be better, not bitter. I trust the faithfulness of God more than ever.
If faith doesnt move the mountain, it will give me strength to endure until tomorrow.
And if its not gone by tomorrow, Ill still believe that God is able, and trust Him until He
acts. Rejoice! Your steps (and your stops) are being arranged by God. Theyre also being
observed by Him. When you get through this, youll realise that the worst thing that
could have happened is, in reality, the Lords doing, and itll become marvellous in your
eyes.

I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO

STRENGTHENS ME PHILIPPIANS 4:13 NKJ.

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Lord, I pray today

that the words
that come out of
my mouth match
the miracle of Your
Name. That when
circumstance says
no, I would enter
into faith and agree
with You a
resounding Yes.
I pray that I would
move away from
being negative
and become a
person that always
sees the
opportunity in life.
Amen

The Great Houdini claimed he could be locked in any jail cell in the country and set
himself free within minutes. And he made good on his claim in just about every city he
visited; except one. That day, something went wrong. He entered the cell in his street
clothes. As the heavy metal doors clanged shut behind him, he took from his belt a
concealed piece of strong but flexible metal, and went to work on the lock. But soon he
realised he wasnt getting anywhere. For 30 minutes he worked without success. Then
an hour passed. This was much longer than it usually took, and he began to stress out.
But still he couldnt pick the lock.
Finally, after labouring for two hours and feeling a total failure, he leaned against the
door, and to his amazement it swung open. It had never been locked in the first place!
How many times does something look impossible simply because you think it is?
Then you focus your faith on it, strike the word cant from your vocabulary, and
suddenly, with Gods help, the impossible becomes do-able!
When God called Gideon, he replied, I dont have the right connections. When He
called Moses, he replied, Im not a gifted speaker. When He called Jeremiah, he replied,
Im too young. To each, God said, I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold
you with My righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10 NIV). Today Hes saying the same thing
to you!
9

N
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W
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BE TURNED
INTO
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f you have never been discouraged as a Christian then you must be unique!

God has told us that to be in His service will often bring hardship. However, Psalm 112:4 says: Even in
darkness light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man.
If we look at the world we could be easily discouraged. There is continual strife. Political leaders fail us.
Deteriorating local government services are bringing discouragement to even the most stout-hearted.
Increasing disasters remind us of our mortality. So, why is it a Christian can feel good, and be a blessing to
others? It is because we are fulfilling a destiny which brings happiness about the future. After reaching the hill
country of the Amorites the Israelites were told: Go up and take possession of it as the Lord your God of fathers
told you. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged (Deuteronomy 1:21).
The plight of the world should not make us anxious nor should discouragement emanating from colleagues or
family. We must learn how to turn hurts into blessings by putting love into the frame.
We must calmly wait before the Lord. When the steam from the situation has dissipated, then, and only then,
should God be consulted. Then we should be ready to be amazed, for He will allow the miraculous to happen.
2 Timothy 4:18 says, The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to His heavenly
kingdom ...
This kingdom is here and now. However it is not an easy thing to show love when discouraged, and practise
calmness in a deliberate way. This will ultimately lead us into a divine discipline when hurts come. What is
more, Gods promise of comfort and peace will also become a regular feature in our lives. In Isaiah 26:3 it says,
You will be kept in perfect peace, him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
This surpasses all understanding known to a world which is full of anxiety. The peace of God says in
troubled times, I am here; I know about you and I will always love you and keep you. Knowing this is how a
discouragement can be turned into a blessing.
10

Chris Grummitt Good News Travelling Fast Company

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A wonderful antidote
to self-pity
Jennifer Rees Larcombe

Why do Bad
Things Happen
to Good People?
Melvin Tinker
One of the most common objections
to the Christian Faith is If God created
the universe, then why does He allow
suffering and injustice? Melvin Tinker
looks at the situations biblical
characters faced, the opposition to
Jesus Himself and the suffering of the
early church. This books provides the
key factors behind the benefit and
purpose of suffering.

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Rejoice In Who You Are

I WILL GIVE THANKS TO YOU, FOR I AM FEARFULLY AND
WONDERFULLY MADE PSALM 139:14 NAS.

Stop despising the things that make you unique. You were born at just the right time,
in just the right place, with just the right gifts, to fulfil a plan that nobody but you can
fulfil. Open your Bible and see what God thinks of you. After all, His opinion is the only
one that really matters.
Listen to David the Psalmist: You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of
my life before I began to breathe. Every day was recorded in your Book! How precious it
is, Lord, to realize that You are thinking about me constantly (Psalm 139:16-17 TLB).
If you want to work on your self-image, heres a prayer to help you today: Lord, its taken
me a long time to figure out that Im different by divine design; that Youve made me
with abilities, traits, and a genetic combination that nobody else has. Nobody in all the
ages of time has ever been me; and nobody ever will be.
Deliver me, Father, from feeling weird; from wishing I were someone else. Deliver me
from envy and jealousy toward others. Help me to discover the unique person You
created me to be; to enjoy the little things that make me so special, so one-of-a-kind.
Help me to realise that I can give the world something that no one else can give. Thank
you, Lord, for the awesome creative work Youve done and continue to do in making me
who I am. Amen.

What Are You Going To Do When

The Cock Crows?
PETER REMEMBEREDAND HE WENT OUT, AND WEPT
BITTERLY MATTHEW 26:75 NAS.

Listen: the cock crowed, and Peter remembered his words to Jesus, Even if I have to
die with You, I will never disown You (Mark 14:31 NIV). And before you criticise him,
listen: All the others said the same (Mark 14:31 NIV). Wow! The moment of truth came
for Peter, and itll come for you too. When it does, youll see in yourself: a) things youve
denied b) things youve excused c) things you never thought were there. Sometimes
the very point where you thought you were strongest is actually your point of hidden
weakness, and Gods showing it to you. Maybe you were raised to look as if you always
have it together, and now Hes shaking some things up and permitting others to be
stripped away. Hebrews 12 says God is going to do a thorough housecleaning,
getting rid of all thejunk so that the unshakeable essentials stand clear and
uncluttered (Hebrews 12:27 TM). Only when you reach that point can you start laying a
true foundation for your future, for only then have you come to terms with the fact that
you can do nothing of real value in your own strength. Its a painful lesson!
Peter was never the same after that night. Hed been humbled, now God could use him.
The lesson had been burned into his conscience, now he could write, be clothed with
humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble (1 Peter 5:5).
Has God been shaking you up lately?

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Your Word speaks of

destiny, hope and
favour. I pray today,
that I might live in
the fullness of Your
promises for me and
thank You, Lord, for
Your enduring Love
for me from even
before I was born.
Help me
acknowledge today
that I can do no great
thing in my own
strength and give me
the grace to live out
my faith in humility
and with love, in
Jesus name.
Amen.

Sometimes
the very
point where
you thought
you were
strongest
is actually
your point
of hidden
weakness,
and Gods
showing it
to you.
13

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Father, help
me learn how to
develop an
overcoming spirit.
I acknowledge
it is Your hearts
desire that I see my
hearts desire
fulfilled. I pray
today that Heaven
itself would
empower me to
reach my full
potential in Christ.
Amen.

The Overcoming Spirit

HE WHO OVERCOMES WILL INHERIT ALL ...

REVELATION 21:7 NIV.

THUS AND THUS SAID THE MAID THAT IS OF THE LAND OF

ISRAEL 2 KINGS 5:4 NKJ.

Dave Longaberger graduated from high school at the age of 20. He repeated first grade and
three-peated fifth grade. He reads at eighth grade level, stutters, and has epilepsy. But
Dave possesses the overcoming spirit. As a child he worked so many jobs, his family called
him the 25-cent millionaire.
As a seven-year-old in a grocery store he learned that the way to please his boss was to
figure out what the boss wanted, and get it done. He studied people; and learned from
them. He discovered that work could be fun, and that he did a better job when he enjoyed
it. The more the people he dealt with liked him, the more likely they were to continue doing
business with him.
He also learned how to become a risk-taker. For example, he started a tiny restaurant on a
shoestring. On the opening day he had $135 that he used to buy the first days breakfast
ingredients. After breakfast, hed enough money to buy supplies for lunch. Then he used the
money he made from lunch to buy dinner preparations. Talk about starting a business on
bare bones!
Later he bought a grocery store and ran it very successfully. All the time he was preparing
himself for bigger and better things. In 2001, his company, The Longaberger Company,
sold over $600 million worth of home accessory items, through 36,000 independent sales
consultants nationwide. Whats his secret? These four scriptural qualities:
a) faith b) patience c) hard work, and d) the overcoming spirit!

God used a cleaning maid to reach a five-star general, and introduce him to a God who
could heal him of his leprosy. Her story is recorded in 2 Kings 5. Take a moment and read
it. There are two lessons in it for you:
1) Theres a purpose in your being where you are! Instead of complaining, start looking
for somebody who needs what Gods given you. This girl wasnt there just to make
beds and clean toilets; she was there by divine appointment. Think: all of your life can
be training for one moment, one crisis and one opportunity. Peter writes, Always be
prepared to give an answer (1 Peter 3:15 NIV). She was ready; are you?
2) What a difference a day can make! Yesterday she was a nobody; today shes a gift
from God, and the most popular person in the house. The world focuses on the big
names but when theyve run out of answers and out of hope, God says Hell pour out His
Spirit upon His handmaids (Joel 2:29). When He does, people who normally wouldnt
give you the time of day will suddenly begin to listen, because youre in the right place,
with the right answer.
Dont allow your lack of education, your ethnic background, your subservient position or
your poor wages to silence you. Keep renewing your mind and strengthening your faith!
Allow God to use you as only He can! And keep listening! The Master-conductor may be
just about to give you your cue!

What Are You Looking For?

YOULL DO BEST BY MEDITATING ON...THE BEST, NOT THE
WORST PHILIPPIANS 4:8 TM

14

Being In The Right Place

Are you blessing-conscious or problem-conscious? Before you answer, consider this story about
identical twins: one, an optimist, whose motto was Everythings comin up roses, and the
other, a pessimist, who always expected the worst.
Their parents took them to a psychologist, hoping to balance out their personalities. He
suggested that on their next birthday, they put each in a separate room to open their gifts.
Give the pessimist the best toys you can afford, the shrink said, and give the optimist a box
of manure. The parents did as he suggested. When they peeped in at the pessimist, they heard
him complaining, I dont like the colour of this toy. I dont want to play this game. Next they
looked in and saw the optimist smiling, throwing manure up in the air and shouting, You cant
fool me. With this much manure, theres got to be a pony!
Whatever you keep looking for youll eventually find, whether good or bad! If youre walking
with God, heres what you should be looking for. Listen: You will be blessed in the city and
the countrywhen you come in and when you go outthe enemies will come at you from
one direction but flee from you in seven. The Lord will send a blessing oneverything you put
your hand tothen all the peoples of the earth will see that you are called by the name of the
Lord and they will fear you. The Lord will grant you abundant prosperitythe Lord will make
you the head, not the tail, you will always have be at the top, never at the bottom
(Deuteronomy 28:3-13 NIV). Today, start looking for Gods blessings!

Graced To Handle It!

GRACEWHEREIN YE STAND
1 PETER 5:12 KJV.

Gods grace is what gets us through the rough times. Paul acknowledged this when
he spoke of his thorn in the flesh (2 Corinthians 12:7). Ever have a splinter in your
finger? You can still function, but its painful. It wont kill you, but it can make you pretty
miserable, right? What did God tell Paul? The same thing Hes telling you, My grace [my
sustaining care] is sufficient for thee (2 Corinthians12:9 Amp).
Grace is what enables you to love an abusive mate, keep waiting for a prodigal to come
back, endure prolonged illness, live with little yet give much, overcome disappointments,
and forgive repeated offences. Grace takes you beyond your natural ability by forcing you
to rely on Gods strength alone. Paul said he looked forward to trials, that the power
of Christ may rest upon me (2 Corinthians 12:9). What a place to be! When youre there,
the mere thought of doing anything on your own is a turn off, because you know His
strength is so superior.
How can two people go through exactly the same trial, yet one fold and the other
flourish? The answer is grace herein ye stand (1 Peter 5:12). Both may be equal
in every other sense but one has been graced to handle it, the other hasnt. Stay in the
areas where youre graced, for thats where your strength and your success lie. You ask,
Where do I find this grace? Listen: the Word of His grace which is able to build you
up (Acts 20:32).
Its His Word! Have you been spending time there lately?

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Lord, I pray I could

use everything
unique that makes
up me, for Your Glory
today. Help me to
identify the areas
in my life where
grace abounds, and
help me focus on
that. Father, help me
realise what I can do,
how I can help and
what I can achieve
for others. Motivate
me, Lord, to be the
blessing to someone
that only I can be. In
Jesus name.
Amen.
I came across
TheWord For
Today. It really
changed my life
To get your FREE copy
call 0845 60 40 401
or visit
ucb.co.uk/wft

15

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THE

vercoming
SERIES

Lord I recognise
there is nothing too
difficult for You to
do. I pray that in
the moments I feel
stressed and cannot
achieve what is
needed, that
You would
supernaturally
enable me to get
done all I need to
do. I pray that
creativity in my life
would flourish and
Your ways, not my
ways, would prove
Your favour in
my life.
Amen.
If this booklet
has helped you
would you consider
making a donation
to UCB so that
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other people.
Donate by visiting
ucb.co.uk/donate or
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18

25th-Hour People

Promises For Troubled Times

JOSHUA SPOKE TO GODAND THE SUN STOPPED

STOCK STILL JOSHUA 10:12 TM.

NOT ONE WORD HAS FAILED OF ALL HIS GOOD PROMISE

I KINGS 8:56 NAS.

Joshua was fighting with everything he had but there was an element he couldnt
control. So he told God, Ill do what I can, but Im calling on You to do what I cant;
arrest the thing that controls the whole system.
When youre running out of time and you need a 25th hour in your day, theres only one
place to go; God! He can stop the sun and freeze the circumstances! He can give you
extra time to regroup, get a new strategy and win the battle.
The 25th hour is when God allows you to redeem the time you squandered fighting others
(or feeling sorry for yourself) when you should have been out fighting the enemy.
Theologically wed call it grace. We dont get it because of our merits; we get it because
of Gods favour. Has God ever done you a favour when you didnt deserve it? Thats
grace! Listen: There has been no day like that, before it or after it
(Joshua 10:14 NKJV).
Twenty-fifth hour people are different: a) they pray prayers nobodys ever prayed before
because they believe nothing is too hard for the Lord b) they remember their wasted
years and live with gratitude for the gift of a second chance c) they live with a sense of
urgency and mission because, even though the clock has run out, God has given them
extra time to win the game.
Its not too late for you. Joshuas God is your God! Talk to Him; Hes still in control!

Rules For Living

CHEERFUL DISPOSITION IS GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH
PROVERBS 17:22 TM.

Learn to control the climate around you. Negativity is contagious, look out for its
carriers. Love them, lift them if you can but never let them infect you. When God wants
to bless you Hell send a person; youll know them by their spirit, for it will be the spirit of
power (the can-do attitude), love (which always looks for the best) and a sound mind
(which is stable and consistent), see 2 Timothy 1:7.
Smile, even when youre not on Candid Camera! A woman whod been given a lovely
plant took it home, watered it, fertilised it and set it in the sun. A year later, she
discovered it was made of silk; and she still laughs about it! When youre secure you can
laugh at yourself. Its also a hallmark of true humility. Smile muscles are linked to the
part of your brain that determines mood. Thats why Solomon says, A merry heart doeth
good like a medicine (Proverbs 17:22).
Employ the 90/10 rule. When 90 percent of the circumstances are uncontrollable, focus
on the 10 percent you can do something about. And remember one of Gods ideas, just
one, can change everything! Paul writes, we were troubled on every side; without
were fightings, within were fears. Nevertheless God (2 Corinthians 7:5-6). Factor
God in! He specialises in impossibilities. He can take the situation that youve built into
a mountain and bore a tunnel through it in a matter of seconds. All He asks you to do is
involve Him!

Points to ponder:
1) Because you have made the Lordeven the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil
shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling; for He shall give His angels
charge over you, to keep you in all your ways (Psalm 91:9-11 NKJ)
2) The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them
(Psalm 34:7 NIV)
3) I will take refuge in the shadow of Your wings until the disaster has passed
(Psalm 57:1 NIV)
4) The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit
(Psalm 34:18 NIV)
5) For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their prayer,
but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil (1 Peter 3:12 NIV)
6) He reached down from on high and took hold of me; He drew me out of deep waters.
He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for meHe
rescued me because He delighted in me (Psalm 18:16-19 NIV)
7) Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in
darkness, the Lord will be my light (Micah 7:8 NIV)
8) You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in
safety. You will lie down, with no-one to make you afraid, and many will court your favour
(Job 11:18-19 NIV).

Confidence Is Contagious

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Rescue me Lord,
from all my
enemies. I pray,
Lord, as I feel its
too difficult to fight
through another
day, that You would
fight on my behalf.
I pray I would feel
settled in who I
am, strong in who
I am in You and
confident that my
future with You is
filled with hope,
joy and peace.
Amen.

DO NOT THROW AWAY YOUR CONFIDENCE

HEBREWS 10:35 NIV.

Confidence is contagious! It spreads throughout your sphere of influence. How many giantkillers were in Sauls army? None! When Goliath challenged the armies of God, they quaked
with fear. Yet David, who came to bring food to his brothers, sized up the situation, went out
in faith and killed the giant. After David became king, how many other giant-killers arose in
Israel? Lots! Listen: ... then Sibbecai ... killed Sippai, one of the descendants of the giants,
and they were subdued. And there was war with the Philistines again and Elhanan ... killed
Lahmi the brother of Goliath the Hittite, the shaft of whose spear was like a weavers beam.
Again there was war at Gath, where there was a man of great stature who had 24 fingers
and toes, six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot; and he also was descended
from the giants. When he taunted Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimea, Davids brother,
killed him. These were descended from the giants in Gath, and they fell by the hand of
David and by the hand of his servants (1 Chronicles 20:4-8 NAS). Now why do you suppose
there were no giant-killers in Sauls army? Because Saul himself wasnt one! However,
under Davids leadership they were numerous, because David was a giant-killer! This
illustrates the it takes one to make one principle that runs throughout the Bible! When you
develop confidence, those around you - friends, family, and associates - will increase their
confidence levels too. Why? Because confidence breeds confidence!

19

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atthew 8:23-2: Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him. Without warning,
a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. Jesus was
sleeping. The disciples went and woke Him, saying, Lord, save us! Were going to drown! He
replied, You of little faith, why are you so afraid? Then He got up and rebuked the winds and
the waves, and it was completely calm. The men were amazed and asked, What kind of man is
this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!

Jesus is moving into a new place in His ministry. This often brings opposition. Without warning, a furious storm
breaks and the disciples panic! They wake Jesus and He rebukes them for their fear. Fear is the opposite of faith.
Next He rebukes the storm and calm comes. His disciples are amazed at Jesus authority.

20

Our Heavenly Father can only entrust supernatural authority to those who, like Jesus, are absolutely submitted
to Him. The devil will not be fooled. Without this complete submission to Jesus neither satan nor any of his evil
workings will be subject to us. We will have no authority. James 4:7 says: Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist
the devil, and he will flee from you.
Acts 19:13-16 records: Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord
Jesus over those who were demon possessed. They would say, In the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, I
command you to come out. Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this. One day the evil spirit
answered them, Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you? Then the man who had the evil spirit
jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out
of the house naked and bleeding.

No one is taken in by our religious exhibitionism. To triumph victoriously for the Kingdom of God we must surrender
first to Jesus.
I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and
revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order
that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and
his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he
exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far
above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but
also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for
the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way. (Ephesians 1:17-23).
When we hear God instruct us to move on into new areas of service for Him, although we expect attack from the
enemy we can rest assured that God will cause us to get where Hes sending us; physically and spiritually. This
faith in Gods word to us will give us peace in even the most furious storm. Because we are in Gods will and in
obedience are submitted to it, we have authority over all opposition. Even the winds and the waves will obey us
and observers will be amazed.
Lord Jesus, thank you for giving us all authority over every evil scheme of the evil one. Amen.
Peter Stanway The Way Christian Ministries - www.thewaycm.com

21

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Lord, I ask that You

give me the strength
to push through to
the breakthrough.
Victory seems so
near, Lord, help
me to live there,
standing victoriously
on Your Word and
in Your name. I
pray that You would
break any hold
the devil has on
me today, in Jesus
Name, that I would
reach the goal You
have said I can
obtain. Amen.

the
Lord
brought
me up
out of a
hor rible
pit

22

Push!
I PRESS ON TOWARD THE GOAL
PHILIPPIANS 3:14 NAS.

When you commit to bringing forth all that God has placed within you, you may have to
push against everything everybody ever did to you, or said about you. You may have to
battle against years of suppression, oppression and depression. You may have to push in
order to release the treasure God has placed inside you. Hell help you bring it out but its up
to you to push. In fact, it may not happen if you dont.
But what do we push against? Against satanic attacks in all their debilitating forms such
as bad memories, low self-esteem and feelings of unworthiness. The devil may have spent
years pushing you aside, pulling you back and putting you down, but today God is saying
to you, I want to open you up, I want to empower you to give birth to that which Ive placed
within you. The time has come for you to rise up and say, Its my turn to conceive, for the
treasure within me to come forth and for me to be loosed to do what God created me to do.
When a baby is born everything in the family changes. The same is true for you. When you
give birth to what Gods placed within you, everything around you will be affected. Gods
blessing is an overflowing blessing and itll touch every area of your life. Every woman
knows when shes pregnant. The same is true in the spiritual realm. Dont fail to give birth
to what God has put in you. Now is the time for the treasure to come forth. So push!

Dealing With Depression

ANXIETY IN THE HEART OF MAN CAUSES DEPRESSION
PROVERBS 12:25 NKJ.

Long-term depression drains your energy, distorts your reality, assaults your faith and
affects everybody around you. One in five of us suffer from it. It is responsible for more
workplace absenteeism than diabetes and heart disease.
Poor health can cause it, not to mention your surroundings; also stress, fear, loneliness,
guilt and anger. And its no modern-day disease either; it affected Bible characters too:
1) David experienced it because of unconfessed sin. Listen: I amseverely broken my
strength fails My loved ones stand afar off (Psalm 38:8-11 NKJ)
2) Job got so depressed about his financial, personal and family losses that he cursed the
day he was born. (Job 3:1-3)
3) When Jezebel threatened Elijah, he went through the H.A.L.T. syndrome: Hungry; he
stopped eating. Angry; he got mad at God and the world. Lonely; he left his servant and
went off by himself. Tired; he collapsed. But God had a prescription. He: a) changed his diet
b) told him to rest c) let him know he wasnt alone, and d) sent an angel to minister to him.
Those are still the steps out of depression!
David said, the Lord brought me up out of a horrible pit (Psalm 40:1-2 NKJ) and
He can bring you out of your depression too! Dont isolate yourself and dont be ashamed
to get help from your pastor, a trusted friend or a good counsellor. And remember, addictive
behaviour and destructive relationships will only make things worse. The moment Elijah
heard Gods voice he began getting it together. With Gods help, you can too!

Who Cares?
Prayerline 0845 456 7729 (UK)
1890 940 300 (ROI)
(local rate call)
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d
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Th
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t
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of a B ow
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ow wonderful the revelation of Christ is to the weary and the sick; how precious the moment
when self dies and His life rolls away the stone and lightens the darkness of pain bringing
us into a new day, a new life!

Mark this gem of Pauls: I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:
and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave
Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)
It wasnt Pauls faith that enabled him to live, it was Christs faith imparted to him; it was Christ in
him the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27). It was the indwelling Christ who was his health, peace, rest,
strength, liberty, and joy.
A river does not struggle to go downstream, it merely flows to the ocean; a seed does not struggle to live,
it waits for the rain and the sun which God gives then it breaks through and brings forth fruit.
Dont you see? It is not healing we need; it is Christ who is the health of our countenance (Psalm 42:11)
and our healer (Exodus 15:26). Its not peace we need it is Christ who is our peace (Isaiah 53:5).
Its not more strength we need, it is Christ who is our strength (Jeremiah 16:19)
24

and our rest (Hebrews 4:9). Christ does not give sanctification, He is our sanctification (1 Corinthians
1:20). He is our victory, our life, our all-in-all. Its not more wisdom we need its more of Christ; its
not more doctrines we need its knowing Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of
His sufferings (Philippians 3:10). Christ is our righteousness, for our righteousness is but filthy rags
(Isaiah 64:6). Its Christ who is the door, the way and the life (John 14:6). Its from Christ in us that
fountains of virtue flow; we receive from Christ who is the eternal spring of peace and joy, health and
strength. His faith the God kind of faith, is what we need in times of trouble, for our faith is at best
flawed and tainted with doubt. Its His faith gifted to us as His children, that moves mountains, that
heals diseases, that destroys the yoke and sets the captive free. Its His faith working in and through us
that works by love (Galatians 5:6). This is the faith that overcomes, that brings down every barrier to the
liberty which is sufficient for every trial.
Its found in Christ alone by the Holy Spirit. Its a free and enabling gift to every believer who would seek
Christ with all their heart. Its the seed of a new and better tomorrow; a new dawn for those in darkness,
new found health for those in pain; and its yours!
David Robinson Irish Christian Broadcasters - www.irishchristianradio.com

25

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Lord, help me find

forgiveness for the
deepest hurts in my
life. Teach me this
Lord, how to live in
love and not
bitterness, hurt or
anger. Lord, You
know what is best
for me, moment by
moment, so help
me trust You Lord,
trust Your leading
and trust Your
guidance, in Jesus
Name. Amen.

Dont Miss What Gods Got For You!

WHEN YOURE BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE, IT WONT

BE A DEAD END BECAUSE I AM GOD ISAIAH 43:2 TM.

LET HIM...ON THE HOUSETOP NOT COME DOWN AND GO INTO

THE HOUSE TO TAKE ANYTHING; MATTHEW 24:17 AMP.

Divorce is like an amputation; you survive but there is less of you. And its worse if you
didnt want the divorce or feel abandoned by a church that doesnt want to appear to
condone it and does nothing to help you. So how can you move on?
1) Confess your mistakes and accept Gods forgiveness. God hates divorce because of the
pain it causes us. But He loves you! Listen: I am He who blots out your
transgressions, for My own sake, and remembers your sins no more (Isaiah 43:25 NIV). God
forgives and forgets; you must do the same.
2) Forgive those who have hurt you. Forgiveness is the one power you always have over
anybody who hurts you. So forgive and keep on forgiving until the past controls you no
more. Make it a fixed attitude.
3) Take your time. Dont make any life changes now. Youre on an emotional roller coaster,
vacillating between wanting them back and wanting them to suffer. Youre vulnerable
and easily drawn to anybody who pays you attention. Take time to heal; only healthy people
make healthy choices.
4) Start giving back. Listen: He comforts us... so when others have trouble, we can comfort
them... (2 Corinthians 1:4 NCV). Once you discover that God hasnt turned His face from
you (see 2 Chronicles 30:9), youll start to become whole again. Then, out of what youve
received, youll have something to give to others. When you can do that, your future is bright
and your possibilities are unlimited.

The Bible uses words like straightaway, immediately and suddenly to remind us that
when God moves He does it quickly. He doesnt announce it with trumpets and fanfares
so you need to stay prepared; especially when its something youve been waiting a long
time for.
God actually moves so quickly that one day youll feel as if youre going through hell and
the next as if youre seated in heavenly places. And in both instances its God which
worketh in you ... (Philippians 2:13). Stay alert! You may be just a moment away from
the answer youve been seeking. Thats all the time it takes God to change things. Dont
let procrastination steal your opportunity. Listen: Let him who is on the housetop not
come down to take anything out of his house (Matthew 24:17). Youve got to decide
if you will go with what God has for you now, or return to the house because your
unfinished business can cause you to miss it. So can others.
A sick man missed his healing for 38 years because he waited for others to act. He said,
I have no-one to help ... (John 5:7 NIV). For years, he sat beside the solution but others
caused him to miss it. Nothing is more important than what God wants to say to you and
do for you today; not whats going on in your house; not the opinions of others. All that
matters is being ready to receive what He has for you!

Picked For A Purpose

...HAVING BEEN PREDESTINED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE
EPHESIANS 1:11 NAS.

Do you realise that before you were born, Gods plan for you was already decided? Paul
writes, ... all things happen just as He decided long ago (Ephesians 1:11 TLB).
Notice, it says all things. That includes the things you want to run from! When Jonah
tried to run from Gods will, God said, No way. My Word is already established. If I let
you escape, I wouldnt be God. If I have to send tornadoes, rock your boat, shake up your
comfort zone or put your entire life on hold, Ill do it in order to accomplish My purpose.
When Jonah could go no lower, he cried from the depths and God delivered him; just in
time to preach in Nineveh. You can go the easy way or the hard way but youll go!
David said in Psalm 77, Your way ... is in the sanctuary ... (v.13 NKJ). He also said, Thy
way is in the sea [storm] ... (v.19).
The choice is yours. Youve been picked for a purpose. God has got too much invested
in you to let you get away with things. Even if you have to come on one leg, with one eye
or on a stretcher, when He calls you, youll come. If you have to leave behind a bottle,
a habit or an addiction, youll come. And youll know it is God because youll be able to
leave behind you those things which now mean nothing for those things which have
suddenly come to mean everything.
Arent you glad He chose you?
26

Moving On

Dare To Be Different
DO NOT CONFORM...TO THE PATTERN OF THIS WORLD
ROMANS 12:2 NIV.

If a million people do the wrong thing it still doesnt make it right! Listen: To you it is
commanded, O people, nations and languages...fall down and worship the golden image
that the king...hath set up (Daniel 3:4-5). Everybody in Babylon was doing it. It meant
death if you didnt. But neither peer pressure nor the threat of death could move the
three young Hebrews. They said, ... our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the
burning fiery furnace ... But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve
thy gods ... (Daniel 3:17-18). Thats not stubbornness its integrity! If theres nothing
different about you its time to re-evaluate yourself.
Peter says you are part of ... a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar [one-of-a-kind]
people ... called ... out of darkness into His marvellous light (1 Peter 2:9). Did you get
that? Youre one of a kind, called to bring glory to God in every circumstance and turn
on the light wherever you go! Forget about having a consensus before you make a move,
or conducting a poll before you obey.
Check your Bible; in most battles, God was on the side of the underdog! Dont let people
with no vision vote on yours! Listen to God! Walk with Him! Do only what He tells you!
When Martin Luther was told, The whole world is against you, he replied, Then Im
against the whole world. Thats why he made a difference!

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Help me remain
alert to the visions
and callings in
my life, Lord, and
let my heart be
ready to engage
with Miracles on a
daily basis. I pray
that today I will
follow the calling
and conviction
of my heart and
prove You, even if
it means stepping
out in faith to seek
Your Will.
Amen.

I came across
TheWord For
Today. It really
changed my life
To get your FREE copy
call 0845 60 40 401
or visit
ucb.co.uk/wft

27


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F
J

ohn 12: 23-27 (TM) says, Jesus answered, The time has come for the Son of Man to be
glorified. Listen carefully: Unless a grain of wheat is buried in the ground, dead to the world,
it is never any more than a grain of wheat. But if it is buried, it sprouts and reproduces itself
many times over. In the same way, anyone who holds on to life just as it is destroys that life.
But if you let it go, reckless in your love, youll have it forever, real and eternal. If any of you
wants to serve Me, then follow Me. Then youll be where I am, ready to serve at a moments
notice. The Father will honour and reward anyone who serves me. Right now I am storm-tossed.
And what am I going to say? Father get me out of this? No, this is why I came in the first
placeIf any of you wants to serve me, then follow me. Then youll be where I am, ready to
serve at a moments notice.

We are His servants, He is the King; we are the sheep of His pasture, He is the Good Shepherd. Its when we
become His servants that He honours and rewards us.
When we die to our own desires, no matter how in need we are, we begin to produce fruit that glorifies God.
28

We are clay in the Potters hands. Shall we tell the Potter what to do? Should we be surprised as clay that we
end up in the furnace at times? Should we complain when life treats us badly when all the time the Potter is
making a new vessel pleasing to His eyes? Clay never takes on true beauty until it has been in the furnace; a
life thats been in the Refiners fire reveals Christ to a dying world with clarity and purity.
Its time for God to be glorified as you say; Thy will, Lord. Should it be the furnace of affliction; the pit of
despair; crippled or whole, I will serve You all the days of my life.
The time is up for struggling with; Why me, God? Let God be glorified in all your life; follow Christ whatever
the cost.
Pour your life into the lives of others, the sick, the imprisoned, the widows, the wounded and the lost, serve God
with all your heart and your body will follow behind.
David Robinson
Irish Christian Broadcasters - www.irishchristianradio.com

29

THE

vercoming
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Lord, open my eyes

to the people
today that I could
encourage, even
those around me
that seem to have
everything together.
Let me be the one
that brings them
peace today. I ask
that You show what
is causing me stress
and pain and what I
must do, so I am no
longer trapped by
the pain of the past.
In Jesus name.
Amen.

Joy!

BEAR YE ONE ANOTHERS BURDENS

GALATIANS 6:2 KJV.

...THE JOY OF THE LORD IS YOUR STRENGTH

NEHEMIAH 8:10 NIV.

To whom would you turn if you suddenly discovered that your unmarried daughter was
pregnant and wouldnt listen to you? Or one of your parents became an alcoholic? Or you
lost your job through your own foolishness? Or got mixed up in an affair? Or dug yourself
into a financial hole and couldnt get out?
Its easy to find places to meet, pray, sing and hear sermons from behind big wooden
pulpits. Dont misunderstand, attending church is very important and the Truth is the
only thing that will set you free (John 8:32). But sometimes what people really need is...a
place to cry ... a person to care ... somebody to bind up their wounds ... and a few friends
who wont blab it all over the church!
Bill Riley leads the Overcomers programme at one of Atlantas largest churches. During
the past ten years, theyve helped over 15,000 people struggling with addictions. For
some deliverance comes quickly. But most have to walk it out day after day, using
principles that date all the way back to John Wesleys prayer groups. Principles like:
a) admitting youre powerless over the problem b) turning your life and your will over
to God c) practising rigorous honesty d) becoming accountable to someone e) making
amends where possible f) developing your relationship with God g) carrying the message
to others who hurt.
When somebody falls, they need two things: 1) a safe place and 2) someone to lift them.
For their sake and that of God, be that someone!

CS Lewis said, Theres too much rigidity in dealing with sacred matters, too much
speaking in holy tones. And the tragic loss in all this pious gamesmanship is to the
individual in the pew. He begins to feel that in the midst of all the religious razzle-dazzle
he himself cant get through to God. Joy is more than earthly pleasure and more than
what we call happiness. Joy is the enjoyment of God and the good things that come from
Him. If the Bible provides us the wonderful words of life, joy supplies the music. If the
way to heaven is an arduous climb, joy sets up the chair lift.
Joy is the fuel God intends us to run on. So how come we feel so uneasy about seeking
more of it? For the same reason that we feel guilty about taking time off. We think, Were
Christians; were not supposed to enjoy ourselves. Read your Bible! May the God of
hope fill you with all joy... (Romans 15:13 NIV). Ever notice how some people go through
incredible difficulties yet still have joy, while others, who dont go through half as much,
struggle to keep their heads above water? Whats the difference? These people have a
well within that they draw from daily; a well that cant be drained by whats going on
around them. Nehemiah said, ...the joy of the Lord [the joy that comes from knowing
that Hes Lord of every situation] is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10 Amp). Whats blocking
you from experiencing Gods joy? Find out ASAP and refuse to live another day without it.

Let It Go!

THE STRONG SPIRIT OF A MAN SUSTAINS HIM IN BODILY PAIN OR

TROUBLE PROVERBS 18:14 AMP.

BE KIND AND COMPASSIONATE...FORGIVING EACH OTHERJUST

AS IN CHRIST GOD FORGAVE YOU EPHESIANS 4:32 NIV.
If this booklet
has helped you
would you consider
making a donation
to UCB so that
we can help
other people.
Donate by visiting
ucb.co.uk/donate or
call 0845 60 40 401

30

Be That Someone

Some scientists set out to capture a rare species of monkey and bring it back alive and
unharmed. To do this they devised a trap; a small jar with a narrow neck into which they
placed a handful of nuts. Smelling the nuts the monkeys reached in to get them, but when
they tried to withdraw their hands they discovered they couldnt get their clenched fists
back out. They were trapped; unable to escape because they were unwilling to let go!
Sometimes were just like those monkeys arent we? Unable to escape our past as we are
unwilling to let it go! Has somebody mistreated you? Have you said to yourself, Ill never
forget this as long as I live? Whether you know it or not youre not holding on to resentment,
its holding on to you. Youre trapped! The real victim of resentment is the one who carries
it. Are you a carrier? Prolonged hate is just a slow form of suicide. Do you think the other
person is the one who needs forgiveness? Think again. Paul said, ...Forgive...as quickly and
thoroughly as...Christ forgave you (Ephesians 4:32 TM).
How did Christ forgive you? a) when you were completely undeserving of it b) with no
strings attached c) with full knowledge that youd fail Him again. Whats the answer? you
ask. Forgive and forget! More issues are forgotten than are ever resolved. To forgive is to set
a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner is you!

Developing A Strong Spirit

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Father, I pray that

my heart would be
joyous and that joy
would overflow in
me, so that I would
become infectious
to others. I can do
all things through
Christ that Strengthens me, so today
Lord, I commit every
aspect of my life
and will to You, that
Your Spirit in me
will overcome every
obstacle in
Jesus Name.
Amen.

Were each made up of body, soul and spirit. Our spirit (inner man) is where God comes
to dwell. But that doesnt mean well automatically have a strong spirit. No, your spirit
is like your body, it must be nourished.
Do you want to develop a strong spirit? First, spend time in Gods Word. Why? Because
it renews your mind and produces Christ-like qualities in you. Jesus knew the power of
Scripture first-hand. He studied it as a boy, hid it in His heart and through it was able
overcome satan in the wilderness. Your Bible will: a) feed your soul: When Your words
came, I ate them; they were my joy and my hearts delight ... (Jeremiah 15:16 NIV)
b) keep you strong in temptation: How can a young man keep his way pure? By living
according to Your Word (Psalm 119:9 NIV) c) make you sharp: The entrance of your
words gives...understanding... (Psalm 119:130 NKJ).
Second, recognise the power of prayer. Listen: ... He went up on a mountainside by
Himself to pray ... (Matthew 14:23 NIV). If Jesus needed to spend time in prayer so do
you. John Bunyan said, You can do more than pray after youve prayed; but you cant do
more than pray until youve prayed. Think about that. In prayer, you commit it all to God,
otherwise who is running things? Just that thought should bring us to our knees. Want to
develop a strong spirit? One that will sustain you in bodily pain or trouble? Do these two
things!
31

Precious Word
of Truth.
Hillsong TV.
Abundant Life.
Days of Wonder.
th
7 Street Theatre.

reasons
why you need Jesus

Jesus loves you! He desires to have a relationship with you, and

to give you a life full of joy and purpose. Why do you need Him
in your life?

1Because you have a past

You cant go back, but He can. The Bible says,

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever
(Hebrews 13:8). He can walk into those places of sin and
failure, wipe the slate clean and give you a new beginning.

2 Because you need a friend

Jesus knows the worst about you, yet He believes

the best. Why? Because He sees you not as you are, but
as you will be when He gets through with you. What a friend!

3 Because He holds the future

Who else are you going to trust? In His hands you are
safe and secure today, tomorrow, and for eternity. His Word says,
For I know the plans I have for youplans for good and not for evil,
to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you
pray I will listen (Jeremiah 29:1113 TLB).

If youd like to begin a personal relationship with Jesus today, please pray
this prayer:

And so much more

Lord Jesus Christ,

I am sorry for the things I have done wrong in my life. I ask your forgiveness and now turn
from everything which I know is wrong. Thank you for dying on the cross for me to set me
free from my sins. Please come into my life and fill me with your Holy Spirit and be with
me forever. Thank you Lord Jesus, Amen.

Tune into the new look UCB TV today

for great teaching, worship and
programmes for the whole family.

If you have made this commitment and would like to make contact with a local Christian
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would like further help from a local Christian, please write giving your full name, address
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3 Reasons, FREEPOST WC2947, South Croydon, CR2 8UZ

Sky channel 586 or online

at ucbmedia.co.uk/tv

No one will contact you unless you specifically request it.

The UCB TV Team

Please visit ucb.co.uk/3reasons to download this advert for a friend.

THE

vercoming
SERIES

Other titles in this series

Overcoming Temptation
Overcoming Grief and Loss
Overcoming Pride
Overcoming Spiritual Issues
Overcoming Addiction
Overcoming Family issues
Overcoming Debt and Finance
Overcoming Work and Unemployment issues
Overcoming Fear
Overcoming Anger and Resentment
Overcoming Materialism

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