Don't Quit Now | Rich Wilkerson Jr. | Sermon Notes — Hello Pastor

Sermon Notes

Don't Quit Now

Rich Wilkerson Jr.

Authentic Church • Jul 6, 2026 • 56 min

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Take this message with you through a journey of Scripture, reflection, and prayer.

Summary

Drawing from Acts 20 and the life of the Apostle Paul, Pastor Rich Wilkerson Jr. encourages believers that while following Jesus often brings seasons of trial and difficulty, hardship is never the end of our story. By standing firm on God's calling, committing to stay in the race, and trusting His abiding presence, we can press through any obstacle with hope. Ultimately, when we realize that God is with us in the midst of our pressures, we can refuse to quit and boldly testify of His grace.

Themes

Perseverance in FaithGod's Presence in HardshipRedemptive GraceSpiritual CallingTestifying to the Gospel

Pastor's Points

1.

It's hard, however, I'm called.

2.

It's hard, however, I'm not quitting.

3.

It's hard, however, God is with me.

Key Points

1.
It's hard, however, I'm called.
2.
It's hard, however, I'm not quitting.
3.
It's hard, however, God is with me.
4.
Understanding the biblical context makes sense of statements that seem difficult or extreme at first glance.
5.
God frequently redeems our past weaknesses and bad decisions to make them our greatest strengths for His Kingdom.
6.
Following Jesus does not guarantee a life without conflict; often, walking in obedience puts us directly against spiritual opposition.
7.
The word 'however' acts as a divine conjunction, declaring that current hardships do not have the final word in our lives.
8.
True spiritual victory belongs to those who persevere over the long haul rather than quitting when pressure rises.

Sermon Moments

“The Valet Illustration: Context makes things make sense, like giving your car keys to a stranger behind a valet desk versus a stranger on the street.”

“Saul to Paul: Moving from 'Saul' (significance/status) to 'Paul' (small) showed that the smaller Paul became, the bigger his life became in God's hands.”

“Midnight Singing in Prison: Paul and Silas praised God while in stocks and chains, demonstrating that praise breaks chains.”

“The Power of 'However': Using 'however' does not deny the pain that came before, but suggests that the pain doesn't get the final word.”

“Words vs. Waze: God guides us like His Word—a lamp providing the next step—rather than a GPS revealing every upcoming detail.”

“Grace for Your Pace: Trying to match another runner's pace causes exhaustion because God only graces you for the specific race He assigned you.”

“Carrying the Fruit Tray: Carrying a simple task with joy depends entirely on who you are doing it for—we carry the Gospel for the King of Kings.”

This Week

Speak 'however' over your current trials this week, declaring that hardship does not have the final say over God's promises.

Commit to reading the Scriptures daily to hear the fresh voice and direction of the Holy Spirit.

Stop comparing your spiritual walk to others and focus on running your own assigned race with endurance.

Obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit immediately, even when the required step feels uncomfortable or unknown.

Refuse to quit on the commitments and callings God has given you, remembering that staying the course leads to victory.

Look for practical opportunities throughout your week to testify to others about the grace and goodness of Jesus.

Turn to God in prayer first with your burdens before seeking guidance from human tools, technology, or self-reliance.

Remember This

Following Jesus may lead to hard places, but because we are called, empowered, and accompanied by God, difficulty is never the end of our story.

A Challenge for You

Don't wait until tomorrow to surrender your life to God—trust Him today with your hardships and step boldly into the purpose He has designed for you.

These are personal sermon notes shared to help you remember the message — not a replacement for Scripture, your church, or your pastors.