SCRIPTURAL REFERENCES
(Philippians 3:7-8) [7] "But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ." [8] "Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,"
(Genesis 12:8) " And he removed from thence unto a mountain on the east of Bethel, and pitched his tent, having Bethel on the west, and Hai on the east: and there he builded an altar unto the LORD, and called upon the name of the LORD."
PREFACE SUMMARY
Let me begin by saying that I received a message from the Lord while seeking wisdom and guidance for our upcoming crusade in Surigao Island, Philippines, starting May 1st, 2024. I received this revelation while preparing for church last Sunday morning. My pastor friend invited me to attend his church near our home to hear one of the church's upcoming ministers.
God whispered before leaving home that morning, "I have a plan." When we arrived at the church, the minister spoke about the Lord's harvest and trusting the plan. While listening to his message, which he delivered in Tagalog and broken English, the Lord whispered to me, "Before you can be a successful winner, you must learn how to lose." This revelation was not just a reminder of a past sermon I had given but a profound understanding of the importance of embracing losses as part of our spiritual journey. It was a call to reflect on my own experiences of loss and how they have shaped me and to share this wisdom with others.
In the book of Genesis, chapter 12, verse 8, there is a reference made to Abraham, the father of the Jewish nation, who was on his way to offer a sacrifice. The passage mentions that Abraham stopped between two mountain ranges, Bethel and Ai or Hai.
Bethel is often called the house of God, as it was a significant place of worship for the Israelites. Meanwhile, Ai or Hai was a place of ruins, which a previous battle had destroyed. It is believed that Abraham stopped at this location to rest and reflect before continuing his journey.
Abraham was on a journey, just like we are all on a journey called life. Along the way, we encounter different types of people who influence us in various ways. Some people may help and encourage us, while others may use and abuse us. This journey can be challenging, and we may feel like giving up.
In this story, Abraham is faced with a pivotal choice. He could either keep his unwavering focus on his journey or divert his attention to his surroundings, which were ruins. Sometimes in our lives, we may feel like we are in a similar place, surrounded by misery and despair. At such times, it's easy to lose hope and give up.
Beloved, like Abraham, we can trust that God has a plan for our lives. We can rely on His promise to never leave and lead us by His Spirit. We can trust that He will guide us through the difficult times and bring us to a good end. This message of trust in God's plan is a comforting reminder that we are not alone in our journey.
This story resonates with us because we are all on a journey called life. Along the way, we encounter people who either help or hurt us. Sometimes, we face severe trials and feel like giving up. At such times, we have a choice - we can either focus on the misery surrounding us or trust God to lead us to brighter days.
Throughout this message, we will explore valuable insights on dealing with losing and gaining knowledge from our experiences. Although losing can be distressing, it is often necessary for us to become the best versions of ourselves. In conclusion, let us take heart and keep moving forward on our journey, realizing that failure is not the end but a stepping stone toward success. Let us trust that God has a purpose for our lives and will see us through every challenge. By embracing the lessons we learn through losing, we can refine ourselves and become even stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity.
"LEARING HOW TO LOSE REFINES WHO WE ARE."
"Beloved, we all aspire to succeed in our pursuits, but it's important to understand that success is not always guaranteed. Setbacks and failures are normal along the way. These experiences can be discouraging and may make us feel like giving up, but it's crucial to recognize that failure is not the end of the road. Instead, it presents an opportunity for us to learn and grow."
Throughout this inspirational message, we will learn that adversity and setbacks serve as formidable teachers, imparting invaluable insights and experiences that enable us to better understand ourselves, our abilities, and the world around us.
We will learn that experiencing failure can be a meaningful and transformative experience that allows us to gain a unique perspective on our strengths, weaknesses, and the strategies we need to adopt to achieve success in the future. When we fail, we must confront our shortcomings and reassess our approach to achieving our goals.
Did you know that Thomas Edison failed a thousand times before he finally invented the light bulb? By reflecting on and learning from our setbacks, we become better equipped to face future challenges with resilience and determination.
Beloved, as we experience defeat, we gain an intimate understanding of the challenges and struggles others face. It fuels our capacity to connect with fellow human beings on a deeper level, instilling the desire to uplift and support one another.
Losing is an inevitable part of life, and while it can be disheartening, it is also a valuable opportunity for growth. The lessons we learn from losing can be precious, helping us become stronger, more capable, and more successful individuals in all our lives.
One of the most essential benefits of losing is that it cultivates humility. When we fail, we are reminded that we are fallible beings with limitations and room for improvement. This can help us stay grounded, avoid becoming complacent, and be more empathetic and understanding of others.
Please know and understand that another benefit of losing is that it can help us develop patience. When we experience setbacks, we must confront our failures and find ways to bounce back. This can help us become more adaptable and better able to handle challenges in the future.
Beloved and losing can also help us develop a growth mindset. When we focus on the lessons we can learn from our failures, we are more likely to see them as opportunities for growth rather than as indications of our innate abilities. This can help us become more open-minded, curious, and willing to take risks.
Hitting the target is paramount in any situation, whether in training or a real battle. However, the consequences of missing the mark in a real-life scenario are far more severe than those in target practice.
Beloved, missing a target during an actual battle could result in catastrophic consequences, such as the loss of innocent lives or the failure of a mission. On the other hand, missing a target during practice allows us to improve our aim and technique without dire consequences. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that we hone our skills and techniques during training to reduce the likelihood of missing the target in a real-life scenario.
To put it simply, setbacks are valuable growth opportunities. They challenge us to re-evaluate our strategies, hone our skills, and explore new pathways toward success. Every defeat we overcome is a stepping stone to greater strength and resilience, allowing us to face adversity with unwavering confidence
"ABRAHAMS LINCOLN'S LIFE JOURNEY."
Abraham Lincoln, one of America's most widely recognized figures, is known for his exceptional life journey. Born into poverty in 1809 in a log cabin in Kentucky, he faced numerous challenges in his early life. Despite the challenges, he was self-taught and became a successful lawyer in Illinois.
Lincoln's remarkable journey from a young lawyer to the President of the United States is a story of perseverance and dedication. His political career began in 1834 when he was elected to the Illinois State Legislature. In 1860, he won the presidential election, becoming the 16th president of the United States.
Lincoln is known for his unwavering dedication to the abolition of slavery and his leadership during the Civil War. He delivered the iconic Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that all enslaved people in the Confederate states were to be set free. The proclamation was a turning point in the Civil War and paved the way for the eventual abolition of slavery.
Abraham Lincoln, one of the most iconic presidents in the history of the United States, had to overcome numerous obstacles before becoming the nation's leader. In his personal life, he lost his mother at a young age, and his sister died in childbirth, which left him feeling emotionally scarred. He also struggled with depression and went through a rough patch in his marriage.
Professionally, he faced several setbacks before becoming a successful lawyer and politician. He lost his job as a store clerk, his first business failed, and he was defeated in several elections before becoming the President of the United States. Despite these challenges, he remained determined to pursue his goals and was resilient in adversity.
His determination, resilience, and unwavering focus on his goals eventually made him one of the most beloved and respected US presidents. He is still remembered for his leadership, courage, and vision.
In 1832, he ran for the Illinois State Legislature position but was defeated. The following year, he suffered from bankruptcy resulting from a business venture. In 1837, he faced a series of personal losses, including the death of his mother, sister, and son. Despite these personal tragedies, he continued to pursue his political aspirations. In 1838, he sought to become the speaker of the state legislature but was defeated.
In 1843, he ran for Congress but was defeated. In 1848, he tried to get re-elected to Congress but lost. In 1854, he ran for the Senate of the United States and lost. In 1856, he sought the Vice-Presidential nomination at his party's national convention but got less than 100 votes. In 1858, he ran again for the U.S. Senate and lost.
Finally, in 1860, Lincoln was elected the President of the United States. He steered the country through its greatest internal crisis, the Civil War, preserving the Union, abolishing slavery, strengthening the federal government, and modernizing the U.S. economy. Lincoln's ability to remain steadfast in the face of adversity and his determination to succeed despite numerous setbacks inspire people today.
In summary, Abraham Lincoln faced numerous failures throughout his life, but he never let them define him. Rather than giving up or becoming discouraged, he used his failures as opportunities to learn and grow. He was determined and persistent and never lost sight of his dreams.
"WHOSE SIDE ARE YOU ON?"
Have you ever known highly competitive people who cannot stand losing? In the United States, it is common for churches to have ball teams to attract young people and encourage them to participate in sports.
Did you know that some churches refuse to play against others because their leaders, including pastors, would become agitated if their team lost? These leaders might even throw a fit, making it uncomfortable for everyone involved. This behavior can disappoint those who want to enjoy a friendly game and have fun while playing, regardless of the outcome.
Beloved, close your eyes and picture this: a beautiful sunny day, a vibrant crowd, and two rival church teams facing each other in a tense ball game. The game has been going back and forth for hours, and now, it's tied and on the brink of overtime. The spectators are perched on the edge of their seats, barely breathing, with their eyes locked on the field.
Each team is determined to win, and the tension is palpable. Suddenly, the centerfielder hits the ball on a high fly, soaring toward the sky. The crowd erupts in a frenzy of excitement, cheering and clapping as they watch the ball travel further away. The ball seems to hang in the air momentarily as if time has stopped.
Everyone is holding their breath, waiting to see what will happen next. And then, with a resounding thud, the ball lands on the field, and the game is changed forever. As the ball is in the air, the left fielder sees an opportunity to make a play and decides to run for the ball.
In their haste, they collide with the centerfielder, their bodies crashing with a resounding thud. The impact is jarring, causing them to miss the ball. This mistake allows the runners on the bases to dash to score.
The coach sprang into action in a split second, his whistle piercing the air as he signaled for an immediate time-out. He marched confidently towards the center of the field, his eyes fixed on the centerfielder and left fielder as he made his way towards them.
With a deep sense of urgency in his voice, the coach requested both players to join him for a discussion, his tone firm but not harsh. As they gathered around, he started to speak, his words carefully chosen and his tone measured, conveying a sense of authority that commanded their attention.
The coach's expression is stern and disappointed as he clarifies that the left fielder's mistake has caused significant embarrassment to their team. He reminds both players of the importance of working together as a team and communicating effectively in sports.
The coach asks both players whose side they are playing for, emphasizing the need to put the interests of their team above their own. The coach then takes a moment to encourage the players to put the mistake behind them and focus on winning the game for their team. He stresses that it's essential to maintain a positive attitude and work together to achieve their goal.
He discussed the team's current performance, highlighting areas for improvement and strengths. He then outlined a new strategy, encouraging the players to share their thoughts and ideas. The discussion was intense, but the coach remained calm and composed throughout, his words resonating with the players and inspiring them to do better. The three individuals gathered together so closely that their breaths mingled in the air.
Can you imagine the atmosphere being thick with tension and anticipation, and can you imagine the crowd watching intently, their eyes fixed on every movement and expression of the three individuals before them?
Can you imagine this scene, with the players nodding in agreement as the coach congratulates them by patting them both on the back? Can you see the crowd erupting into cheers and applause, impressed by the players' dedication and the coach's expertise?
The scenario of two players trying to catch the same ball and colliding with each other is a perfect illustration of our journey with Christ. Just like the players, we strive to be noticed and recognized by God. However, in our walk of faith, we must remember that we are all on the same team and should work towards the same goal of pleasing God.
The imaginary story I just shared, provides a clear and detailed illustration of the state of the church in today's fast-paced and ever-changing world. Many church leaders feel pressure to conform and are relaxing the standards they once held so high. This could be seen as a result of the constant shifts in society's attitudes and values. However, it is essential to understand that this behavior is not limited to church leaders only.
As individuals, we are often so consumed with our interests and priorities that we fail to see the bigger picture and end up causing harm to ourselves and others. It is crucial to take a step back, evaluate our actions and decisions, and consider their impact on the world. The bottom line is that we must recognize that we are better together and work for cooperation and unity in achieving our goals and facing the challenges that come our way.
In one of his letters, the apostle Paul used the phrase "I have fought a good fight" to describe his faith journey. But what does this phrase mean? It's important to note that Paul wasn't referring to any external battles he had won against other believers or churches. Instead, he talked about his internal struggle to remain steadfast in his beliefs, resist temptations, and trust in God, even in the face of adversity.
Fighting the good fight of faith means staying committed to one's beliefs, even when difficult or unpopular. It means standing up for what is proper, even when faced opposition. For Paul, this fight involved persecution, imprisonment, and even death for the gospel's sake. But despite these challenges, Paul remained faithful to God and His message.
Beloved, it is essential to note that not every battle is worth fighting. Other fights are not worth engaging in. For Paul, the good fight was the fight for eternal life and salvation. It was the fight to live a pleasing life to God and to fulfill the purpose for which he was called. In essence, when Paul said, "I have fought a good fight," he expressed his unwavering commitment to his faith and willingness to face any challenge to remain faithful to his beliefs.
This statement serves as a reminder for all believers to persevere in the good fight of faith, to stand firm in their convictions, and to trust in God in all circumstances. As Christians, we should also strive to fight the good fight of faith and stay focused on our journey with Christ.
Beloved, it's not about comparing ourselves to others or looking down on other believers. Instead, we should encourage and support each other as we walk together toward our ultimate goal of eternal life with Jesus Christ.
The players in our story are so focused on their achievements and recognition that they fail to see the bigger picture. As a result, they collide, which benefits the other team. Similarly, suppose we as Christians focus solely on our journey and neglect the unity of the body of Christ. In that case, we may inadvertently aid the enemy's cause and hinder the advancement of God's kingdom.
The current situation in which church leaders are giving in to peer pressure and relaxing the standards they once held high reflects how we may sometimes behave in our individual lives. We may become so engrossed in our interests that we lose sight of the larger picture and, as a result, harm ourselves and others.
It is essential to recognize that we are better off working together as a team and striving for unity and cooperation, especially when facing challenges and trying to achieve our goals. By doing so, we can ensure that our actions align with our values and principles and that we are not sacrificing our integrity for short-term gain.
In conclusion, it is vital to maintain our values and principles and not be swayed by external pressures or distractions. We must remember that our actions have consequences and be mindful of how they affect us and those around us. This way, we can create a better world for ourselves and future generations. As fellow believers, we must recognize the importance of unity and cooperation when facing a common enemy. If we fail to do so, we might end up harming ourselves instead of achieving our goals.
MY CONCLUSION
Beloved, encountering losses and failures can be challenging but also an opportunity for personal growth. These difficult times can shape your character and develop resilience. They teach you to face adversity head-on, adapt to changing circumstances, and develop the mental fortitude required to overcome obstacles.
It is natural to feel upset and frustrated when we lose, but learning how to accept defeat with grace and dignity is essential. This means acknowledging that losing is not the end of the world but an opportunity to learn and grow. By embracing a growth mindset, you can focus on the lessons learned from your setbacks and use them to fuel your personal growth.
When we experience setbacks and losses, it can be disheartening and discouraging. However, it is essential to remember that these experiences can be valuable in deepening our appreciation for success when it is achieved. The contrast between failure and success can help us to understand the effort and perseverance required to reach our goals.
To put it simply, setbacks are valuable growth opportunities. They challenge us to re-evaluate our strategies, hone our skills, and explore new pathways toward success. Every defeat we overcome is a stepping stone to greater strength and resilience, allowing us to face adversity with unwavering confidence.
Beloved, it is important to remember that losing is not the opposite of winning but a part of the journey towards success. By acknowledging your mistakes, you can identify areas for improvement and work towards better outcomes in the future.
When you experience setbacks and failures, it can be tempting to give up, become disheartened, and feel like a failure. However, it's crucial to remember that "losing is not the opposite of winning but an integral part of the journey towards success."
In summary, the more you experience setbacks and learn to cope with them, the better equipped you become to face future challenges. By developing flexibility, you can handle stress better, adapt to change, and focus on your goals, using setbacks as motivation and turning your failures into valuable learning experiences that will make you stronger and wiser.
International Evangelist
Jerry W. Hulse, Ph.D.
Miracle Life Church International
