KEEP PUSHING

Title: KEEP PUSHING
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: “But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.” (2 Thessalonians 3:13)

Supporting Texts: Luke 9:57-62

INTRODUCTION:
The Christian journey is a marathon, not a sprint. It demands consistent effort, unwavering faith, and persistence. Just as a woman in labour must push until the baby is delivered, so must we persevere in our spiritual race until we receive our eternal crown. The journey is often fraught with challenges, distractions, and weariness, but the Word of God encourages us not to be weary in doing good. This sermon will explore why we must keep pushing and how we can stay consistent in our Christian walk.

1. THE NECESSITY OF PERSISTENCE

a) Our Journey Requires Endurance
The Christian race demands patience and persistence, as rewards come only to those who finish strong (Hebrews 12:1).

b) Challenges Are Inevitable
Jesus warned us that following Him would come with sacrifices (Luke 9:23).

c) God's Promises Are for the Faithful
Only those who endure to the end will be saved (Matthew 24:13).

d) The Danger of Giving Up
Those who turn back lose their place in God's plan (Luke 9:62).

e) Biblical Example: The Israelites persevered until Jericho's walls fell after seven days of marching (Joshua 6:20).

2. THE TEMPTATION TO QUIT

a) Weariness in Well-Doing
The human tendency to grow tired of consistent effort is natural (Galatians 6:9).

b) Distractions from the World
The cares of life can shift focus from spiritual goals (Mark 4:19).

c) The Lure of Sin
Sin can derail even the most devoted believers (Hebrews 12:1).

d) Fear of Persecution
Trials and persecution may tempt us to retreat (John 15:20).

e) Biblical Example: Demas, who abandoned Paul due to worldly attractions (2 Timothy 4:10).

3. HOW TO KEEP PUSHING

a) Focus on the Prize
Keep your eyes on the crown of righteousness (2 Timothy 4:8).

b) Strengthen Yourself Spiritually
Pray, fast, and study the Word to stay strong (Ephesians 6:10).

c) Surround Yourself with Believers
Fellowship with others encourages faith and accountability (Hebrews 10:25).

d) Rely on God's Strength
Trust in God to supply the grace you need (Isaiah 40:31).

e) Biblical Example: Apostle Paul, who pressed on despite challenges (Philippians 3:13-14).

4. THE REWARD OF KEEPING PUSHING

a) Eternal Life
The ultimate reward is spending eternity with Christ (John 14:2-3).

b) Divine Approval
God honours those who remain faithful (Revelation 2:10).

c) Crowns of Glory
There are crowns reserved for overcomers (James 1:12).

d) Joy of Accomplishment
Finishing strong brings eternal joy (Matthew 25:21).

e) Biblical Example: Stephen, who saw the glory of God even in death (Acts 7:55-56).

5. THE DANGERS OF STOPPING MIDWAY

a) Loss of Eternal Reward
Turning back leads to losing the crown (2 John 1:8).

b) A Missed Destiny
God's purpose for your life may remain unfulfilled (Jeremiah 29:11).

c) Becoming a Stumbling Block
Quitting may discourage others (Matthew 18:6).

d) Regret and Shame
Those who turn back may face regret (Luke 17:32).

e) Biblical Example: Lot's wife turned back and lost everything (Genesis 19:26).

CONCLUSION:
The Christian journey is not for the faint-hearted. We must remain steadfast, pushing forward until we receive our crown of glory. Forget past achievements and press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. May God grant us the grace to finish strong and hear the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, grant me the grace to remain steadfast in my walk with You.

2. Father, strengthen me to overcome distractions and weariness.

3. Lord, renew my spiritual fervour daily.

4. Father, let nothing separate me from Your love and purpose.

5. Lord, keep me focused on the prize of eternal life.

6. Father, remove every obstacle hindering my spiritual growth.

7. Lord, help me to forget past successes and press forward.

8. Father, uphold me with Your right hand of righteousness.

9. Lord, may I finish my race with joy and receive my crown of glory.

10. Father, keep me standing until I see You in glory.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will not grow weary in well-doing in Jesus' name.

2. Every distraction attempting to derail your destiny is destroyed.

3. You will finish strong and receive your crown of glory.

4. The strength to press forward is released upon you.

5. You will not lose focus; the prize is yours.

6. Divine grace will sustain you in every challenge.

7. Your spiritual fervour will never wane.

8. The Lord will uphold you till the end.

9. You will achieve all that God has purposed for you.

10. Your life will be a testimony of endurance and victory.