SERMON NOTES WITH APPLICATION - EXERCISING FAITH PT II

Pastor William Mathis
2 days ago
2 min read

Series Theme: Seeking, Knocking, and Asking

📖 SERMON TITLE: Exercising Faith Pt. II

Text: Hebrews 12:1–3 (KJV/MSG)

General Theme: Hidden Manna

💡 BIG IDEA:

We are called to run the race of life by growing into our God-Self—our full, divine potential as people made in God’s image. It’s not just about belief—it’s about becoming, step by step.

🔑 SERMON POINTS & PRACTICAL APPLICATION

1. STRETCH YOUR GOD-SELF (v.1)

“Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins.”

Explanation:Faith starts with preparation—stretching your mind, body, and soul for the race. Like an athlete warms up to avoid injury, we have to let go of spiritual baggage and get in position to grow.

Practical Takeaway:

Young people: Drop distractions that keep you from being your best self—peer pressure, negativity, fear.
Adults: Let go of emotional weight, old habits, and self-doubt. Lighten your load so your God-Self can rise.
Everyone: Daily prayer, journaling, or quiet reflection are ways to stretch your soul before the day begins.

2. STEADFASTLY PURSUE YOUR GOD-SELF (v.2)

“Keep your eyes on Jesus… Study how He did it.”

Explanation:Jesus shows us how to stay focused, no matter the challenge. Faith is not just about starting strong—it's about finishing well. We keep pressing forward because we know who we’re becoming.

Practical Takeaway:

Young or old: Set daily intentions. What does your “God-Self” look like today—kind, patient, bold? Practice that.
Christians: Make Jesus your blueprint. Don’t just believe in Him—study His strategy and strength.
Non-Christians: Even if you’re exploring faith, let Jesus’ resilience and focus inspire your own life path.

3. STRENGTHEN YOUR GOD-SELF (v.3)

“Go over that story again… That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!”

Explanation:When you feel tired or discouraged, remember Jesus’ endurance. Reviewing His journey gives us strength. Your God-Self gets stronger through reflection and inner resilience.

Practical Takeaway:

Everyone: When life feels heavy, hit pause and revisit your “why.” Re-read stories of hope. Talk to someone wise.
Mind: Stay mentally strong by feeding your thoughts with positive, truth-filled messages.
Body: Rest and nourish your body—it’s the temple of your God-Self.
Soul: Worship, music, prayer, and even silence can recharge your soul.

🪞ABOUT YOUR GOD-SELF:

You are made in God's image—you are spirit, energy, and purpose.
Your subconscious mind is powerful—it shapes what you believe and how you behave.
Growing your God-Self is about becoming more aware, more grounded, and more aligned with the divine in you.