Summary of "How To Find Strength" Episode from Live Big with Derek Grier
Podcast Information:
- Title: Live Big with Derek Grier
- Host/Author: Derek Grier Ministries
- Description: Join Dr. Derek Grier, a well-respected speaker, author, and bishop, on a transformative journey through biblical truths and practical teachings that empower believers to live a purposeful life! With passionate preaching and profound insights, Dr. Grier blends timeless wisdom with real-life applications to address today's challenges.
- Episode: How To Find Strength
- Release Date: May 19, 2025
Introduction to Broom Tree Moments
Dr. Derek Grier opens the episode by introducing the concept of "Broom Tree Moments"—times in life when individuals feel overwhelmingly broken, defeated, or helpless, similar to the biblical prophet Elijah's experience under a broom tree.
“Broom tree moments are those moments that you feel so broken, so defeated, so disappointed, you feel so helpless that all you can do is sit down and try to breathe.”
— Dr. Derek Grier [05:00]
The Story of King Ahab and Naboth's Vineyard
Dr. Grier delves into the biblical narrative of King Ahab and Naboth the Jezreelite from 1 Kings 21. He highlights Ahab's character flaws—his greed, inability to say no, and how his weaknesses led to a confrontation over Naboth's vineyard.
Lessons on Integrity and Saying No
Ahab's attempt to seize Naboth's vineyard by offering money or an alternative property is contrasted with Naboth's steadfast integrity and adherence to God's law, which forbids the permanent sale of ancestral land.
“There are some things in life that just are not for sale, particularly our personal integrity.”
— Dr. Derek Grier [12:30]
Dr. Grier emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal integrity and the power of saying "no" to preserve one's faithfulness to God.
Weakness of Ahab vs. Strength of Jezebel
Ahab's inability to handle rejection and his over-reliance on his wife, Jezebel, are scrutinized. Jezebel's decisive and passionate nature contrasts sharply with Ahab's weakness, illustrating the dangers of inadequate leadership and dependence on others.
“A weak man can't change until he stops blaming his failures on the strengths of others.”
— Dr. Derek Grier [18:45]
Elijah's Despair Under the Broom Tree
Transitioning to Elijah's story in 1 Kings 19, Dr. Grier recounts how Elijah, after facing Jezebel's threats and the challenges of his prophetic mission, finds himself exhausted and despondent, leading him to sit under a broom tree.
“Elijah came at the end of himself, exhausted, under, sitting and sat down under a broom tree.”
— Dr. Derek Grier [22:10]
He parallels Elijah's emotional struggles with his own personal experiences of loss and church decline, making the message relatable to listeners facing similar "broom tree moments."
God's Response: Rest, Company, and Nourishment
Highlighting God's intervention, Dr. Grier explains how God sends an angel to provide Elijah with rest, food, and encouragement, symbolizing the divine support available during times of weakness.
“God sent an angel that carried the presence of God. And when you're tired, you need the presence of God more than anything else in your life.”
— Dr. Derek Grier [25:30]
He underscores the significance of rest, supportive community, and spiritual nourishment in regaining strength.
Practical Steps for Finding Strength
Dr. Grier outlines three actionable steps for listeners to find strength during challenging times:
-
Rest in His Promises: Trust in God's sovereignty and find peace in His Word.
“Rest is not always just a good night's sleep. It's trust, it's Lord, you got it.”
— Dr. Derek Grier [28:15] -
Surround Yourself with Positive Environments: Engage with people who uplift and support your spiritual journey.
“Get in environments where you can experience the presence of God through his people.”
— Dr. Derek Grier [29:00] -
Feed Yourself with God's Word: Immerse yourself in Scripture to build spiritual resilience.
“Feed myself through the battle with super doses of God's word.”
— Dr. Derek Grier [30:10]
Personal Application and Conclusion
Dr. Grier shares personal anecdotes about overcoming exhaustion through rest, community, and Scripture, encouraging listeners to adopt these practices in their own lives.
“God always gives you something so challenging that you gotta tap into Him to get it done.”
— Dr. Derek Grier [35:50]
He concludes by reminding listeners to embrace their seasons of rest, trust in God's provision, and maintain a strong connection with His Word to navigate through life's toughest moments.
“When things get bad, number one, rest in his promises. Number two, get in environments where you can experience the presence of God through his people. Number three, feed yourself through the battle with super doses of God's word.”
— Dr. Derek Grier [40:45]
Final Thoughts
Dr. Derek Grier reinforces the episode's key message: strength is attainable through rest, supportive relationships, and spiritual nourishment. He encourages listeners to apply these principles to overcome their personal broom tree moments and live a purposeful, impactful life in Christ.
“Remember you have what it takes in Christ to live big.”
— Dr. Derek Grier [42:00]
Note: This summary captures the essence of the episode "How To Find Strength" from Live Big with Derek Grier, highlighting the main discussions, insights, and practical applications presented by Dr. Derek Grier.