FROM ZERO TO HERO

TITLE: FROM ZERO TO HERO

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
1 Samuel 16:11-13 (NKJV) – "And Samuel said to Jesse, 'Are all the young men here?' Then he said, 'There remains yet the youngest, and there he is, keeping the sheep.' And Samuel said to Jesse, 'Send and bring him. For we will not sit down till he comes here.' So he sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, with bright eyes, and good-looking. And the Lord said, 'Arise, anoint him; for this is the one.'"

Supporting Texts:
1 Samuel 17:34-37
Philippians 4:13
Ephesians 2:10
Romans 8:31

INTRODUCTION:
The journey from zero to hero is one of transformation, grace, and purpose. It reflects God’s ability to take an ordinary person and elevate them to extraordinary heights for His glory. In this sermon, we will explore the process of becoming a hero in God's eyes, as exemplified by David, who went from a shepherd boy to a king.

1. IDENTIFYING YOUR “ZERO”
Everyone has a starting point, and it often feels like a place of insignificance or struggle.

a) The Shepherd's Life: David was the youngest son, overlooked and relegated to the fields (1 Samuel 16:11).

b) Feeling Inadequate: Many of us can relate to feelings of unworthiness or being underestimated by others (1 Samuel 17:28).

c) Life’s Challenges: Our zero can be represented by hardships, failures, or lack of resources (2 Corinthians 12:9).

d) God Sees Potential: Despite our current situation, God sees our potential for greatness (1 Samuel 16:7).

Biblical Example:
Moses felt inadequate when God called him to lead the Israelites, yet he became a great leader (Exodus 3:10).

2. THE PROCESS OF PREPARATION
Before one can transition from zero to hero, there is a necessary period of preparation.

a) Time in the Fields: David spent years tending sheep, honing his skills in worship and warfare (1 Samuel 16:11).

b) God’s Training Ground: Our struggles often serve as God’s classroom for building character and resilience (James 1:2-4).

c) Developing Skills: Like David, we must cultivate our gifts and talents in obscurity before they are revealed (1 Samuel 17:34-35).

d) Faithfulness in Small Things: Being faithful in minor responsibilities prepares us for greater ones (Luke 16:10).

Biblical Example:
Joseph spent years in prison, which prepared him for his future role as a leader in Egypt (Genesis 41:46).

3. THE CALL TO GREATNESS
God calls each of us to step into our destiny, regardless of our past.

a) Divine Appointment: Just as David was anointed king, we too are chosen for significant purposes (1 Peter 2:9).

b) Embracing Our Identity: Understanding our identity in Christ empowers us to rise above our circumstances (Galatians 2:20).

c) Responding to the Call: Answering God's call requires faith and obedience (Isaiah 6:8).

d) Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: Growth often happens outside our comfort zones, as we take bold steps of faith (Matthew 14:29).

Biblical Example:
Esther embraced her identity and purpose, risking her life to save her people (Esther 4:14).

4. OVERCOMING OBSTACLES
The journey from zero to hero is not without challenges; overcoming these obstacles is essential.

a) Facing Giants: David faced Goliath, representing the fears and challenges that stand in our way (1 Samuel 17:45-46).

b) Doubt and Criticism: Just as David faced doubt from his own brothers, we too may face criticism (1 Samuel 17:28).

c) Spiritual Warfare: We are in a battle against spiritual forces that seek to deter us from our path (Ephesians 6:12).

d) Persistence: We must remain steadfast in our pursuit of God’s calling, despite setbacks (Hebrews 12:1-2).

Biblical Example:
The Israelites faced numerous obstacles in the wilderness, but they ultimately reached the Promised Land (Joshua 1:3).

5. CELEBRATING VICTORY
The transition from zero to hero culminates in victory, which must be celebrated and shared.

a) God's Faithfulness: Recognising and celebrating how God has brought us through challenges (Psalm 34:1).

b) Sharing Our Testimonies: Testimonies encourage others and build faith within the community (Revelation 12:11).

c) Glorifying God: Every victory points back to God’s grace and power (1 Corinthians 10:31).

d) Setting New Goals: With each achievement, we must continue to seek God’s purpose for the next phase (Philippians 3:14).

Biblical Example:
David’s victory over Goliath led to national recognition and celebration among the Israelites (1 Samuel 18:6-7).

CONCLUSION:
The journey from zero to hero is not just about personal achievement; it’s about embracing our God-given potential and fulfilling the purpose for which we were created. Like David, we may start from humble beginnings, but with faith, preparation, and God's calling, we can become heroes in the Kingdom of God.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me recognise my starting point and see the potential You have placed within me.

2. Father, strengthen me during my preparation period; help me to be faithful in small things.

3. I declare that I am chosen and called for greatness in Your Kingdom.

4. Lord, empower me to face the giants in my life with courage and faith.

5. May I embrace my identity in Christ and walk boldly into my destiny.

6. Help me to overcome doubt and criticism as I pursue Your purpose.

7. I pray for persistence in my journey, trusting in Your plan for my life.

8. Lord, let my victories glorify You and encourage others in their faith.

9. May I always celebrate Your faithfulness in my life.

10. Guide me as I set new goals and seek to fulfil my purpose for Your glory!

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. I declare that every limitation in your life is being broken; you are stepping into greatness!

2. God is preparing you for a mighty purpose that will impact generations!

3. You will rise above your circumstances and fulfil the calling God has placed on your life!

4. Every giant in your life will fall as you step out in faith!

5. Your testimony will inspire others to pursue their God-given destiny!

6. You are equipped with the strength to overcome every obstacle that stands in your way!

7. The favour of God will rest upon you, opening doors of opportunity!

8. You will experience breakthroughs that lead to greater responsibilities in the Kingdom!

9. As you celebrate your victories, more blessings and opportunities will come your way!

10. Your journey from zero to hero will be a testimony of God's faithfulness and power!