Sunday Sermon: Breaking Free Week 2 – The Battle

by Minister Denise N. Fyffe

As I moved into the second week of my Facebook fast, in 2014, I thought I had gained some footing, but little did I know that week two would be even more challenging. It seemed like every circumstance that could tempt me to break my fast was coming at me. My Uncle became seriously ill, and the most efficient way to reach out to family members was through Facebook messaging. It was practical—one message, sent one time, no fees, and everyone would receive it. But this was a big mistake.

I thought I could just use Facebook for this one purpose, but that’s the thing about temptation—it never comes in isolation. Once I opened Facebook, the lure was overwhelming. On top of the situation with my Uncle, it was also my birthday week, and well wishes were pouring in. It felt like everywhere I turned, there was a reason to “just check” Facebook. But with each peek, I felt myself being pulled back into that familiar cycle.

The Lure of Social Media

Social media has this incredible ability to pull us in, even when we’ve committed to stepping away. One look turns into several, and before we know it, we’re trapped. This is exactly what started to happen to me. The allure was strong, and I almost got lost in it again. But then, something amazing happened—someone called me, and told me to get off Facebook and repent. Thank God for friends who aren’t afraid to tell you the truth, even when you don’t want to hear it.

That call was a wake-up call, and I was ashamed of my slip-ups. But here’s the thing: shame, when rooted in humility, can be an effective tool for change. Proverbs 27:6 (KJV) says, “Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” That person’s words gave me the nudge I needed to redouble my efforts and get back on track with my fast. It was a reminder that the fast wasn’t just about avoiding Facebook; it was about seeking God first.

Romans 12: Living as an Authentic Christian

Even as I struggled with the pull of social media, God was still working on fortifying me. I began listening to Bible teachings by Chip Ingram, whose ministry, Living on the Edge, has been such a powerful resource for me. His teachings are rooted in practical, everyday spirituality, focusing on what it means to live as an authentic disciple of Christ. The foundation of his ministry is built on Romans 12, a passage that defines true spirituality and what it means to live like a Christian every day, in every situation.

This was an answer to my prayers. For over a decade, I had been searching for Bible teachings that were both mature and applicable to real life. Chip’s teachings are filled with humor, love, and wisdom, and they resonate deeply with anyone who is serious about growing in their faith. Now, in this second week of my fast, I found myself not just listening but applying these teachings in my daily walk with God. It was like God had placed me in the right place, at the right time, and with the right mindset to receive what He was teaching me.

Deepening My Devotional Life

In Week 2, something new began to happen. I started writing prayer letters to God, a practice I learned from Chip Ingram. This was a turning point for me. My devotional time, which had once been sporadic and inconsistent, became a rich and daily encounter with God. As I sought His presence each day, I was no longer filling my time with mindless social media scrolling; instead, I was immersing myself in His Word and allowing His truth to take root in my heart.

Matthew 6:33 (KJV) continued to guide me: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” This scripture was no longer just a verse I knew—it became a call to action. God was showing me that as I sought Him first, everything else—peace, focus, clarity—would fall into place. My time spent with Him wasn’t a duty or a chore, but a delight. It was no longer about resisting Facebook; it was about embracing the fullness of God’s presence.

Finding Strength in Teaching

In the past, Facebook had been my go-to for mindless distractions, but in this second week, I found something far more fulfilling: the teachings of the Word. I was now listening to Bible teachings by Chip Ingram, gaining practical insight on how to live out my faith daily. His teachings reminded me of the simplicity of following Christ—seek Him, live like Him, and let His Spirit guide every aspect of your life.

If you’re looking for teaching that challenges you to grow, I highly recommend checking out Living on the Edge. These teachings helped me stay grounded during my fast, reminding me that this journey isn’t about deprivation but about drawing closer to God.

Conclusion

The second week of my Facebook fast was tough—there were moments where I slipped, but God didn’t let me stay there. He brought people into my life to encourage me, and He continued to speak to me through His Word and through teachings that deepened my understanding of what it means to live for Him.

This fast wasn’t just about giving up social media; it was about learning to seek God first, no matter what distractions or temptations come my way. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV) says, “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” Even in my weak moments, God’s grace was enough to carry me through.

I encourage you, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the distractions of life—whether it’s social media or something else—consider taking a fast. But don’t stop there. Fill that space with God’s Word, with prayer, and with teachings that will build you up. Let Him transform your mind and heart, as He did for me in that second week.

Closing Prayer

Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, we come before You, grateful for Your grace and strength. Lord, as we face the distractions of life, help us to refocus on You. Guide us as we seek to draw nearer to You and to put aside anything that pulls us away from Your presence. Lord, thank You for the teachings that shape us, the friends that hold us accountable, and Your Word that sustains us. May we continue to seek You first, and may You add all that we need according to Your perfect will. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Blessing

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May He give you the strength to resist temptation and the wisdom to seek Him above all else. May your heart be filled with His peace as you draw near to Him.

Amen.

I hope you find today’s sermon helpful and applicable to your life. I pray that the Word of God works effectively in your life.

Be encouraged and stay blessed.

 

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The Invitation

I invite you today to take a deep look at yourself and reflect on your life. Are you searching for something more? Are you satisfied with how things are today? Is God calling you to bconfess your sins, be baptized and accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Have you been ignoring him? Have you been facing immense hardships and challenges? What can you do to take the first step?

Trust God to help you with that first step.

Be encouraged.

Be bold.

Click here to understand how to Answer the Call or answer the Altar Call.

It shall be well with you, in Jesus mighty name.

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And remember, be encouraged.

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About the writer:

Minister Denise N. Fyffe is a devoted Christian, author, and servant of God, whose life is guided by her faith and values. Since accepting Jesus Christ at a young age, she has made it her mission to share her journey. She also shares her knowledge of the Bible with others. Besides her passion for writing, Minister Fyffe is actively involved in outreach, Christian mentorship, and ministering the Word of God.