Taking a Stand (2 Sam. 23:10-12)

This was my Father's Day sermon.

Introduction:  "Man of Steel" > David's Mighty Men (2 Sam. 23:8ff)
1. You are in the fight of your life (1 Pet. 5:8).
2. What you are defending is worth the fight (marriage, children, etc.).
3. Hold onto the sword no matter what (Eph. 6:17).
4. Expect the fight to weary you. You can receive renewed strength, however, from God (Isa. 40:31).
Conclusion: Both Eleazar and Shammah took a stand. Rise up, men of God! Take your stand today!

The Man's Psalm (Psa. 128)

Psalm 128 is "The Man's Psalm."  It mentions  God (v. 1), work (v. 2), marriage (v. 3), children (v. 3) and country (vv. 5-6).  When these things are functioning properly, as a man keeps God first, that's success for a man.  At least it should be.

There is no true success without fearing God.  Don't just fear God.  Pursue Him:  "Walk in His ways." 

When homes change (vv. 3-4), then society changes (vv. 5-6).  The best kept secret for a strong nation is strong, Christian men.

Here is a brief outline:

• A man's heart (v. 1) > God
• A man's home (vv. 2-4) > marriage, children
• A man's hope (vv. 5-6) > hope of prosperity (v. 5), hope of posterity (v. 6), hope of peace (v. 6)