Thursday at 9:30 AM and 9 PM on WHTN of the Christian Television Network

Overcoming Life’s Obstacles

Sometimes life can seem like an obstacle course. Today’s teaching is on “Finishing Well” despite the obstacles in your way.   If you are not in the WHTN viewing area you can watch Overcoming Life’s obstacles online at www.ctntv.org on Thursday, May 17th at 9:30 AM and again at 9 PM CST.  Please find study guide and scripture references below.

Study Guide for Finishing Well Overcoming Obstacles/Hurdles

Hebrews 12: 1 – 2 NLT

 1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish.* He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterward. Now he is seated in the place of highest honor beside God’s throne in heaven.  (Week’s Memory Verse)

Overcome Obstacles by Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus

Through the Holy Spirit’s guidance we identify and remove the obstacles that would keep us from finishing well.

 “It’s Not Fair”

Ex. Martha

 Luke 10: 40- 42

40 But Martha was worrying over the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.” 41 But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are so upset over all these details! 42 There is really only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it–and I won’t take it away from her.”

  Segment # 2

Overcome the comparison Trap Hurdle by Keeping our Eyes on Jesus

What about him/her?

John 21: 18 – 22

18 The truth is, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked and go wherever you wanted to. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will direct you and take you where you don’t want to go.” 19 Jesus said this to let him know what kind of death he would die to glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.” 20 Peter turned around and saw the disciple Jesus loved following them–the one who had leaned over to Jesus during supper and asked, “Lord, who among us will betray you?” 21 Peter asked Jesus, “What about him, Lord?” 22 Jesus replied, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You follow me.”

Comparison Trap !

There are so many other “obstacles”

It’s not Fair

Why Me?

How come?

When?

But I study more

I give more money

I have more faith……..

But to finish well – we’ve got to allow the Holy Spirit to help us identify and remove obstacles – otherwise our flesh will always have an excuse.

  Segment 3

We all have obstacles, injustices (real or perceived) this life is a battle…..but we are the winner’s if we’ll run His race – His way.

Keep our Eyes on Jesus as we run the Race !

Hebrews 12: 1 – 2 NLT

  Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish.* He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterward. Now he is seated in the place of highest honor beside God’s throne in heaven.  (Week’s Memory Verse)

Biblical help for the tough stuff in relationships !

There is no shortcut around building a quality foundation for relationships.  Watch video below and see the foundation that

God set for our relationships.

If you’ve gotten off to a shaky start and aren’t sure where to go from there…. check out this amazing series by Monica on Finishing Well. It’s all about changing perspective, regrouping and walking out the rest of your journey with a renewed mind that only God can give.

The fear of failure doesn’t have to hold you back from living and enjoying your life to the fullest.

Watch today’s program and learn to face each day with faith and ultimately Finish Well.

- www.monicaspeaks.com – Of course you’ve heard so much about living large – now join Monica and Jennifer Kennedy Dean today for Bridges and learn about the Power of Small.

Be sure to watch today’s show to learn how children can thrive following a divorce with Co-Parenting.

Guests:  Wade Jackson

Family Dynamic Institute – www.familydynamics.net  

FYI: The Cleavers’ weren’t real. Whether you are taking proactive steps to keeping your marriage and family healthy or are in need of revival for a relationship in distress, you’ll want to tune in today to learn more about this comprehensive ministry. As is often said, “As goes the family, so goes the nation.”  Equip yourselves with the tools you need to be a strong, healthy family!

TUESDAY, February 14, 2012

Monica Teaching

No Fear, Part 2

Join Monica today as she speaks on “No Fear in Christ.” We all know that from time to time we can become fearful. If we let fear take full reign, we find ourselves making one mistake after another. This teaching will help us learn the tools to overcome fear and walk in faith in Jesus Christ. Part of His Good News is that we don’t have to be afraid anymore. Are you ready to take a step into Freedom?

WEDNESDAY, February 15, 2012

Cassie and George/Joyce Oglesby

Surviving Infidelity

Today’s show will tackle the difficult subject of infidelity in the light of God’s Word and Grace. With honesty and hope, anyone who has walked through the pain of infidelity will gain insight and a perspective that only Love could give. Don’t miss this transforming show.

THURSDAY, February 16, 2012

Guests: Becky Sumrall, Tiffany Williamson, Dawn Ferguson

Christian Womens’ Job Corp – www.cwjcmiddletn.org

In 1997 CWJC of Middle TN was formed to provide a faith-based educational program and life
changing community to individuals living on salaries below living wage. Their vision was to provide individuals educational classes, community resources, and a mentor to journey with them to a brighter future. Their holistic program, at no cost to the student, provides an individual the support and knowledge to change their circumstances and their lives.

FRIDAY, February 17, 2012

Finishing Well, Part 5 – www.monicaspeaks.com

Monica continues this exciting new series called Finishing Well.  “It’s Not How You Start but How You Finish!” is part 5 of this this online bible study series Even when we start off on the wrong foot, we CAN regroup by simply changing our focus and getting on the right track. If you’d like to sign up for this online bible study, please go to www.monicaspeaks.com

Bridges is hosted by Monica Schmelter and airs on WHTN M-F
at 9:30 AM and again at 6 PM CST. You can also watch Bridges online at www.ctntv.org

MONDAY, February 6, 2012

Guests: Paul and Lisa Wright and Anne Frease

Revolution Worship LIVE – Collaboration of Revolution Music, Joy Church International Worship Team and EMI Records

Monica interviews the music team of Paul and Lisa Wright as they join forces with the Joy Church International Music Ministry to create an eclectic blend of worship music to minister to both believers and nonbelievers.

TUESDAY, February 7, 2012

Monica Teaching – No Fear!

If you’re ready to step outside of fear-filled life, then today’s show is for you. God desires us to be led by Faith and not by Fear.  Today’s teaching will speak to that place in us all that desires to be ruled by the Power, Love and Sound Mind of a life centered on Faith and NOT Fear! Break free with this life-changing teaching.

WEDNESDAY, February 8, 2012

Monica Teaching – Shame-Free Living, Part 2

Today Monica continues to share the essential tools for living a Shame-Free Life, part 2. Using the Bible as our foundation and its simple life-changing truths, we can step into a purposeful life with Christ at the center of our thinking and our doing. Tune in today and learn the power of surrendering our old ways of thinking to the One Who wishes to renew us from the inside out.

THURSDAY, February 9, 2012

Guests:  Tami Heim and Toni Birdsong

Sticky Jesus – www.stickyjesus.com

Explore the importance of being a light online. @stickyJesus.com exists to inspire and equip believers for such a time as this! They are committed to providing inspiration, tools and resources that demystify
social media and enable believers to connect, influence, and live their faith—in real time—online.

FRIDAY, February 10, 2012

Finishing Well, Part 4 – www.monicaspeaks.com

Monica continues this exciting new series called Finishing Well.  “It’s Not How You Start but How You Finish!” is part two of this this online bible study series Even when we start off on the wrong foot, we CAN regroup by simply changing our focus and getting on the right track. If you’d like to sign up for this online bible study, please go to www.monicaspeaks.com

Bridges is hosted by Monica Schmelter and airs on WHTN M-F
at 9:30 AM and again at 6 PM CST. You can also watch Bridges online at www.ctntv.org

Are there any obstacles in your way?

Chances are there are MANY obstacles in your way and they vary in shape, size, and severity.  Today’s study is on overcoming these obstacles/hurdles through our Faith in Jesus Christ.  Today, we will look at:

1)                 Keeping our Eyes Fixed on Jesus

2)                 Overcoming the “obstacle” of the comparison trap

3)                 Overcoming the “it’s not Fair” Obstacles/Hurdle

Our Weeks Memory Verse

Hebrews 12: 1 – 2 NLT

1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish.* He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterward. Now he is seated in the place of highest honor beside God’s throne in heaven.  (Week’s Memory Verse)

1) Overcome the “it’s not fair” obstacle by Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus

Through the Holy Spirit’s guidance we identify and remove the obstacles that would keep us from finishing well.

There are many situations in life in general, at work or even in ministry where things are just not fair.  It was no different with Martha (Mary’s sister) in the bible.  Please read below.

 “It’s Not Fair”

Ex.  Our dear friend Martha

Luke 10: 40- 42

40 But Martha was worrying over the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.” 41 But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are so upset over all these details! 42 There is really only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it–and I won’t take it away from her.”

 How many times (you don’t really have to count) have you gotten caught up and distracted by how unfair things are?  Has the reality of the inequities caused you to lose peace, and/or valuable time?  Think about it have you ever left a job – or quit a position at church because you were saddled down with responsibilities and felt like it just wasn’t fair?

Could there have been another way to handle the situation?  Perhaps resigning that job or position what the best decision at that time.  Perhaps it was worth a conversation with the boss.  Perhaps it was that you took on more than what you really needed to be responsible for.

Things should be as fair as they can.  Sometimes the fairness is out of our control.  In these situations we can still finish well by following the Holy Spirit and thinking the best in all situations.  We can also trust God when things aren’t fair.  He is the ultimate judge.  He will reward each of us according to what we have done.  Keep this in mind when things are not fair and there is nothing you can do the change that.  Your labor in the Lord is NEVER in vain.

 2) Overcome the comparison Trap Hurdle by Keeping our Eyes on Jesus

 What about him/her?

John 21: 18 – 22

18 The truth is, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked and go wherever you wanted to. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will direct you and take you where you don’t want to go.” 19 Jesus said this to let him know what kind of death he would die to glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.” 20 Peter turned around and saw the disciple Jesus loved following them–the one who had leaned over to Jesus during supper and asked, “Lord, who among us will betray you?” 21 Peter asked Jesus, “What about him, Lord?” 22 Jesus replied, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You follow me.”

The comparison trap can be such a large obstacle.  Have you ever wondered why me?  Have you ever said, “how come they get a free pass?”.  Have you ever found yourself reciting (even mentally) how you should have had that job/position or how so and so seems to be the “golden boy or girl”?”  etc etc

Take some time to pray right now.  Ask God to show you by His Holy Spirit any areas of your life where you might be caught up in the comparison trap.  It may be a spiritual comparison – a job comparison.  Just take some quiet time and examine your heart.  We all want to Finish Well and in order to do so we must with God’s help identify any obstacles in our way.  Otherwise, we’ll be armed with excuses but no real forward progress.

 
3)         Run the race His way (even with the real or perceived inequities in life).  If you want to Finish Well you have to run the race His way.

Keep our Eyes on Jesus as we run the Race !

Hebrews 12: 1 – 2 NLT

 1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish.* He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterward. Now he is seated in the place of highest honor beside God’s throne in heaven.  (Week’s Memory Verse)

Each day set aside some time to focus on Jesus.  Look at Him as Your Elder Brother, your advocate, your vindicator, your Savior, your Redeemer (and the list goes on and on and on).   Don’t let a day go by without making an adjustment in your race.  Look at Him.  Recognize His goodness in your life.  Remember He is Lord over all.  He is Lord over those that might neglect/or mistreat you.  He is able to work in your life despite what others think, say or do.  He is able to give you fuel to run this race when there is no other fuel source around.

Allow His goodness and unlimited opportunities fill your heart.  Don’t let your heart get filled with thoughts of inequities and comparisons.

Each day empty your heart of what is not from God.  Fill your heart with Jesus.  Let him help you navigate through this race.  Let Him give you strength to Run, Finish, and Finish well.

Don’t forget this weeks memory verse

Our Weeks Memory Verse

Hebrews 12: 1 – 2 NLT

 1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish.* He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterward. Now he is seated in the place of highest honor beside God’s throne in heaven.  (Week’s Memory Verse)

I’m looking forward to hearing from each of you.  Share with me some examples of unfair situations or comparisons and how you’ve learned to overcome those.  We all have obstacles in our way.  What are you doing in your life to ensure that you will Finish Well?

Shalom,

Monica