Hot Test!

The Mountain Audio

Our Verse: Psalm 23:4 “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.”
Let's restate our premise for this series. If we do the right things, we can change the world. Put another way, we can make it better for everyone. Being a world changer requires that you face what the Bible calls “the darkest valley”. This is a vital and required part of your life story.
Your adventures will include dark places. God says the whole world is dark without Christ. It's where all the sinners live. Its where we came from, and it's where we need to go. World changers can have great adventures, but it also means great difficulties, dark valleys. These difficulties are of two kinds:
The first difficulty is facing hardship to become tough and durable as God's servant; it's His training. We gain strength and experience to help our fallen world.
The second difficulty we will face is the opposition of the world. Jesus said, “I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.” John 15:19 Both our training and the world's opposition can make our path difficult, steep, dark. The more you train through life's difficulties, the stronger you will be.
Our brother Peter understood this: “Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you.” 1Peter 4:12
So how do we deal with these “darkest valleys” of life? A few tips:
1. Stay close to your brothers and sisters.You will find strength and common purpose through your friends in Christ. God sends people to help you.
2. Read your Bible every day. Consolation and confidence shine on every page in Scripture. If you need help, ask your brothers and sisters where to read. If you have neglected your reading, get with it! Check this series for some guidance. http://bit.ly/YouStudyWord
3. Finally, realize that God is watching over you. He really is our good shepherd! He will train you and protect you so you can be a world changer!
Dark Valleys navigational aid:
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd;
I have all that I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
Even when I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies.
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord
forever.