Problem into Opportunity

The problem itself creates a situation that is ripe for the hero. It is an opportunity to be significant. -Pst. Joseph

The people I look up to the most are those that put aside insecurities & fear and choose to take a stand no matter what the consequences. After reading the "Insanity of God by Nik Ripken" I realized that being a hero is messy. His book is about the persecuted church all around the world. In some places, they viewed prison as their bible college. To them If you haven't been imprisoned for your faith you aren't qualified to pastor a congregation. I want to learn from people like that. Those who have been through many failures/struggles in life and don't' quit, they keep learning and getting back up. Those that count it all joy even when they are imprisoned for their faith. They use that time wisely and bring more and more people into the kingdom.

(ACTS 16:22-34)

The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods.After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.

What do real heroes do when they are beaten and flogged?

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.

They prayed and worshiped. Even though being imprisoned would be a big problem for most people they used it as an opportunity. Not only to grow themselves in faith but to grow those around them. " Other prisoners were listening to them."

The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized. The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole household.

They shared the gospel with the jailer. Not only was his life changed forever but so was his whole household ( Family). They ended up turning persecution and pain into pure joy.

We don't wait for opportunities, we just go & grab the opportunities.-Pst. Joseph

True heroes find opportunities to impact others in the craziest of situations. Most of the time it's them just choosing to live Godly lives not conforming to the pattern of this world (Romans 12:2) but living the way God has called them to live.

Yes, you can live a life full of joy and wonder ...loving and reaching out to the lost and hurting.

Even when most people think you should be crying or fearful.

Why not do the opposite today & freak them right out :)

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Lead like a Pro Day 3 & 4 -Pastor Joseph