Why Not Me? Part 4

Destiny Church sermons

#Religion #Church #Christianity #Destiny Church Sermons #Sermons

26:18

How do you know when it’s time to make your next big career move? With International Women’s Day around the corner, we are excited to feature Avni Patel Thompson, Founder and CEO of Milo. Avni is building technology that directly supports the often overlooked emotional and logistical labor that falls on parents—especially women. Milo is an AI assistant designed to help families manage that invisible load more efficiently. In this episode, Avni shares her journey from studying chemistry to holding leadership roles at global brands like Adidas and Starbucks, to launching her own ventures. She discusses how she approaches career transitions, the importance of unpleasant experiences, and why she’s focused on making everyday life easier for parents. [01:26] Avni's University Days and Early Career [04:36] Non-Linear Career Paths [05:16] Pursuing Steep Learning Curves [11:51] Entrepreneurship and Safety Nets [15:22] Lived Experiences and Milo [19:55] Avni’s In Her Ellement Moment [20:03] Reflections Links: Avni Patel Thompson on LinkedIn Suchi Srinivasan on LinkedIn Kamila Rakhimova on LinkedIn Ipsos report on the future of parenting About In Her Ellement: In Her Ellement highlights the women and allies leading the charge in digital, business, and technology innovation. Through engaging conversations, the podcast explores their journeys—celebrating successes and acknowledging the balance between work and family. Most importantly, it asks: when was the moment you realized you hadn’t just arrived—you were truly in your element? About The Hosts: Suchi Srinivasan is an expert in AI and digital transformation. Originally from India, her career includes roles at trailblazing organizations like Bell Labs and Microsoft. In 2011, she co-founded the Cleanweb Hackathon, a global initiative driving IT-powered climate solutions with over 10,000 members across 25+ countries. She also advises Women in Cloud, aiming to create $1B in economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs by 2030. Kamila Rakhimova is a fintech leader whose journey took her from Tajikistan to the U.S., where she built a career on her own terms. Leveraging her English proficiency and international relations expertise, she discovered the power of microfinance and moved to the U.S., eventually leading Amazon's Alexa Fund to support underrepresented founders. Subscribe to In Her Ellement on your podcast app of choice to hear meaningful conversations with women in digital, business, and technology.…

15 days ago 42:17

MP3•Episode home

March 9, 2025

Genesis 37:5, 12
Genesis 37:18-20
Genesis 39:2-4
Genesis 39:7
Genesis 39:9
Genesis 39:20
Genesis 39:21-23
Genesis 40:14-15
Genesis 40:23

Pastor Gene’s sermon, titled Dare to Dream Again, encourages believers to rekindle the God-given dreams they may have abandoned due to life’s hardships. Using the biblical story of Joseph, he emphasizes that God’s dreams cannot be stopped, even when faced with rejection, jealousy, betrayal, or hardship.

Key points from the sermon:

Your Current Reality is Not Your Final Destiny – Just because dreams seem delayed doesn’t mean God is finished with them.
Joseph’s Journey – Pastor Gene recounts Joseph’s life, from his coat of many colors and his brothers’ jealousy to his journey through rejection, slavery, false accusations, and imprisonment. Each challenge was a stepping stone to his destiny.
Handling Rejection and Hardship – Joseph’s faith and character remained intact despite betrayal. He didn’t allow bitterness to define him, and he remained faithful even in difficult circumstances.
Wisdom in Sharing Dreams – Pastor Gene advises caution in sharing visions, as not everyone will support them. Some will be confidants (genuinely for you), while others are only situational allies.
God’s Favor is Unstoppable – No one can take away the favor of God. Even in the pit, slavery, and prison, Joseph found success because God’s presence remained with him.
Patience and Timing – Dreams often take time to mature. While people desire quick results, God’s process is like a slow-cooking method that develops character and readiness.
Redemption and Purpose – Eventually, Joseph’s trials positioned him to fulfill God’s purpose—saving his family and an entire nation. Instead of seeking revenge, he extended grace, understanding that what others meant for evil, God used for good.
A Call to Renew Dreams – Pastor Gene closes by urging the congregation to trust in God’s process, remain faithful, and reclaim dreams they’ve let go of.

The sermon is a powerful reminder that setbacks are often setups for something greater. Faith, character, and perseverance in difficult seasons lead to the fulfillment of God’s plans.

104 episodes

Destiny Church sermons

Why Not Me? Part 4

Destiny Church sermons

published 15 days ago

MP3•Episode home

March 9, 2025

Genesis 37:5, 12
Genesis 37:18-20
Genesis 39:2-4
Genesis 39:7
Genesis 39:9
Genesis 39:20
Genesis 39:21-23
Genesis 40:14-15
Genesis 40:23

Key points from the sermon:

Your Current Reality is Not Your Final Destiny – Just because dreams seem delayed doesn’t mean God is finished with them.
Joseph’s Journey – Pastor Gene recounts Joseph’s life, from his coat of many colors and his brothers’ jealousy to his journey through rejection, slavery, false accusations, and imprisonment. Each challenge was a stepping stone to his destiny.
Handling Rejection and Hardship – Joseph’s faith and character remained intact despite betrayal. He didn’t allow bitterness to define him, and he remained faithful even in difficult circumstances.
Wisdom in Sharing Dreams – Pastor Gene advises caution in sharing visions, as not everyone will support them. Some will be confidants (genuinely for you), while others are only situational allies.
God’s Favor is Unstoppable – No one can take away the favor of God. Even in the pit, slavery, and prison, Joseph found success because God’s presence remained with him.
Patience and Timing – Dreams often take time to mature. While people desire quick results, God’s process is like a slow-cooking method that develops character and readiness.
Redemption and Purpose – Eventually, Joseph’s trials positioned him to fulfill God’s purpose—saving his family and an entire nation. Instead of seeking revenge, he extended grace, understanding that what others meant for evil, God used for good.
A Call to Renew Dreams – Pastor Gene closes by urging the congregation to trust in God’s process, remain faithful, and reclaim dreams they’ve let go of.

The sermon is a powerful reminder that setbacks are often setups for something greater. Faith, character, and perseverance in difficult seasons lead to the fulfillment of God’s plans.

104 episodes

#Religion #Church #Christianity #Destiny Church Sermons #Sermons

Όλα τα επεισόδια

Destiny Church sermons

1
Why Not Me? Part 6 35:18

1 day ago35:18

35:18

March 23, 2025 Proverbs 3:5-6 Romans 12:1 James 4:10 Romans 13:4 Hebrews 12:1 1 Corinthians 15:33 Hebrews 4:16 Hebrews 10:25 Pastor Gene’s sermon focuses on transformation and surrender to God. He begins by challenging the congregation with the question, “Why not me?”—emphasizing that anyone can be used by God if they commit to heart change. He highlights that true transformation starts with a change of heart, which then influences the mind and ultimately behavior. Using the metaphor of a police arrest, he stresses the need to surrender completely to God, laying down anything we prioritize above Him. He references Proverbs 3:5-6 and Romans 12:1, urging believers to trust in the Lord and present themselves as living sacrifices. Pastor Gene also uses the analogy of a lifeguard waiting for a drowning person to stop struggling before rescuing them, illustrating how Jesus waits for us to surrender so He can lift us up. He warns against self-reliance, addictions, and misplaced priorities, urging people to “lay it down” before God. The second part of the sermon focuses on “filling the gap.” He explains that when we remove bad habits or influences, we must replace them with Godly habits, or else unhealthy patterns will return. He warns against merely appearing spiritual without real transformation, emphasizing the need to feed our minds with scripture, worship, and uplifting community. Pastor Gene challenges listeners to make small daily improvements, recognizing that spiritual growth is a marathon, not a sprint. He encourages believers to surround themselves with people who uplift them, avoid toxic influences, and be intentional about their spiritual input. He closes by urging those ready to commit to Jesus to make a decision for Christ, leading them in a salvation prayer. The overarching message is one of surrender, transformation, and daily intentional growth in faith.…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Why Not Me? Part 4 42:17

15 days ago42:17

42:17

March 9, 2025 Genesis 37:5, 12 Genesis 37:18-20 Genesis 39:2-4 Genesis 39:7 Genesis 39:9 Genesis 39:20 Genesis 39:21-23 Genesis 40:14-15 Genesis 40:23 Pastor Gene’s sermon, titled Dare to Dream Again , encourages believers to rekindle the God-given dreams they may have abandoned due to life’s hardships. Using the biblical story of Joseph, he emphasizes that God’s dreams cannot be stopped, even when faced with rejection, jealousy, betrayal, or hardship. Key points from the sermon: Your Current Reality is Not Your Final Destiny – Just because dreams seem delayed doesn’t mean God is finished with them. Joseph’s Journey – Pastor Gene recounts Joseph’s life, from his coat of many colors and his brothers’ jealousy to his journey through rejection, slavery, false accusations, and imprisonment. Each challenge was a stepping stone to his destiny. Handling Rejection and Hardship – Joseph’s faith and character remained intact despite betrayal. He didn’t allow bitterness to define him, and he remained faithful even in difficult circumstances. Wisdom in Sharing Dreams – Pastor Gene advises caution in sharing visions, as not everyone will support them. Some will be confidants (genuinely for you), while others are only situational allies. God’s Favor is Unstoppable – No one can take away the favor of God. Even in the pit, slavery, and prison, Joseph found success because God’s presence remained with him. Patience and Timing – Dreams often take time to mature. While people desire quick results, God’s process is like a slow-cooking method that develops character and readiness. Redemption and Purpose – Eventually, Joseph’s trials positioned him to fulfill God’s purpose—saving his family and an entire nation. Instead of seeking revenge, he extended grace, understanding that what others meant for evil, God used for good. A Call to Renew Dreams – Pastor Gene closes by urging the congregation to trust in God’s process, remain faithful, and reclaim dreams they’ve let go of. The sermon is a powerful reminder that setbacks are often setups for something greater. Faith, character, and perseverance in difficult seasons lead to the fulfillment of God’s plans.…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Why Not Me? Part 3 35:10

22 days ago35:10

35:10

March 2, 2025 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 Ephesians 5:15-17 2 Corinthians 5:17-18 Matthew 3:17 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 https://www.facebook.com/mydestinychurch/videos/651676103985859 Pastor Gene’s sermon focuses on the theme of authenticity and breaking free from the masks we wear. He emphasizes that just as people constantly label us, we often wear masks to hide our true selves due to fear, insecurity, or societal expectations. He warns that while the devil seeks to destroy our testimony, the greatest enemy we often face is ourselves—our own doubts, negative self-talk, and imposter syndrome. Many struggle with feeling unworthy of God’s blessings and attempt to maintain an image that others expect, rather than embracing their true identity in Christ. Pastor Gene encourages believers to take control of their thoughts, making them obedient to Christ, as stated in 2 Corinthians 10:4-5. He highlights that our value should not be based on achievements, approval, or possessions, as these fluctuate. Instead, our worth is rooted in God’s unconditional love. He urges parents to affirm their children beyond accomplishments, teaching them they have intrinsic worth. Similarly, adults should stop seeking validation through performance and embrace the truth that they are already loved and chosen by God. The sermon concludes with a challenge to remove the masks, walk in authenticity, and trust that God calls and equips those He chooses. Pastor Gene reminds the congregation that God affirms us not because of what we do, but because of who we are in Him. The final call to action is to let go of the weight of others’ opinions and live in the freedom God provides.…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Why Not Me? Part 2 34:38

28 days ago34:38

34:38

February 23, 2025 1 Samuel 16:6-7 1 Samuel 16:11 1 Samuel 16:12 1 Samuel 16:13 1 Samuel 16:18 1 Samuel 17:28 1 Samuel 17:33 1 Samuel 17:38-39 Pastor Gene’s sermon, titled “Why Not Me?” , focuses on overcoming negative labels and embracing God’s calling. He begins by addressing the power of words, explaining that while physical wounds heal, hurtful words can stick with us for a lifetime. He encourages listeners to peel off the labels that others have placed on them. Using the story of David from 1 Samuel 16-17 , Pastor Gene illustrates how David was overlooked by his own family and labeled as insignificant. However, despite being the youngest and least expected, God chose him to be king. David’s journey—from being ignored to defeating Goliath—shows that God’s plans are not based on human perception but on the heart. Pastor Gene emphasizes that: You may feel overlooked, but you’re not unnoticed – God sees and values each person. David was anointed but not yet appointed – Sometimes, God calls us before the opportunity arises, requiring patience and faithfulness in the small things. You can’t defeat your giant wearing someone else’s label – David had to remove Saul’s armor and fight in his own way, demonstrating that we must reject false labels and embrace our God-given identity. The sermon concludes with a call to remove limiting labels, trust in God’s plan, and boldly declare, “Why not me?”…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Why Not Me? Part 1 34:38

5 weeks ago34:38

34:38

February 16, 2025 Exodus 3:11 Acts 7:25 Exodus 4:1 Pastor Gene’s sermon, titled “Why Not Me?” , encourages believers to trust that God can use anyone for His purpose, regardless of their flaws, doubts, or past mistakes. Drawing from the story of Moses, Pastor Gene emphasizes that God prepares us through our life experiences for future assignments. Key points from the sermon include: Overcoming Self-Doubt : Just like Moses questioned, “Why me?”, many people feel unworthy or underqualified for God’s calling. Pastor Gene stresses that faith allows us to shift from asking “Why me?” to declaring “Why not me?”—believing that if God can use others, He can use us too. God’s Preparation : Every aspect of Moses’ life—from his rescue as a baby to his time as a shepherd—was a divine setup for leading the Israelites out of Egypt. Similarly, our past experiences, even hardships, are part of God’s preparation for our future roles. Trusting in God’s Power : When Moses asked, “Who are You?”, God responded with “I Am,” signifying that God’s presence and power are sufficient. Pastor Gene encourages believers to trust that God will equip them for their calling. Using What’s in Your Hand : God used Moses’ staff to demonstrate His power. The sermon urges us to recognize that God wants to use the talents and resources we already have to fulfill His mission. Saying “Yes” to God : The message concludes with a challenge to the congregation to stop allowing insecurities and fears to hold them back. Instead, they are called to embrace God’s purpose with a bold, faith-filled attitude—asking, “Why not me?” Throughout the sermon, Pastor Gene shares personal anecdotes to illustrate how God’s hand has been on his life, preparing him for ministry. He calls the congregation to join him in stepping into their divine assignments, trusting that God’s plans are greater than their limitations.…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Blessed – Part 6 35:13

6 weeks ago35:13

35:13

February 9, 2025 Ephesians 1:4-5 Romans 8:15-16 Ephesians 2:19-20 Pastor Gene’s sermon emphasizes the importance of community and belonging in God’s family. He begins by illustrating how dogs instinctively seek closeness, comparing this to God’s design for humanity—we were never meant to do life alone. He references Genesis, where God declares it is not good for man to be alone, extending this beyond marriage to emphasize the necessity of spiritual family. Drawing from Ephesians 1, Pastor Gene highlights how God has adopted believers into His family out of love and not obligation. He explains that in Roman culture, adoption was primarily about passing down an inheritance, just as God desires to share His blessings with His children. He reminds the congregation that God has “drafted” them onto His team, choosing them with purpose. Pastor Gene stresses that God is a good father, contrasting Him with imperfect earthly parents. He encourages the church to let go of past hurts and not project their disappointments onto God, who is always faithful and present. He references Romans 8:15-16, emphasizing that as adopted children, believers can confidently call God “Abba, Father.” The sermon also underscores that being part of God’s family means being part of the church. He challenges listeners to move from being mere consumers to active contributors, participating in the church’s mission. He likens church to a family meal rather than a restaurant—where everyone contributes rather than simply consuming. In closing, Pastor Gene invites the congregation to embrace their spiritual family, serve together, and live with the identity of being chosen, loved, and supported by both God and their fellow believers. He encourages them to move from acquaintances to family, concluding with a declaration: “We Are Family.”…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Blessed – Part 5 27:38

7 weeks ago27:38

27:38

February 2, 2025 Ephesians 1:11 Colossians 3:1 Revelation 21:3-4 Ephesians 1:14 Pastor Gene’s sermon uses vivid analogies and scriptural teachings to encourage believers to focus on the eternal promises of heaven and their inheritance through Christ. He begins by comparing the excitement for an upcoming concert or game to the joy Christians should feel about the “good news” of the gospel. This revelation should lead to a mindset of blessing and positivity, despite life’s challenges. Drawing from Ephesians 1:11 and other scriptures, Pastor Gene emphasizes the spiritual inheritance believers receive through faith in Jesus Christ. He notes that, like earthly inheritances given in stages, part of this divine inheritance is experienced now, while the fullness awaits us in eternity. Key points of the sermon include: Setting Sight on Heaven: Pastor Gene contrasts misconceptions of heaven (such as floating on clouds) with biblical descriptions of a vibrant, purposeful place reminiscent of Eden. Heaven is depicted as a city with streets of gold, rivers, and meaningful work tied to purpose. New Realities in Heaven: Believers can look forward to a new home, new bodies free from pain, joyful work, and reunions with loved ones and biblical figures. Adjusting Perspective: Inspired by a story of Mike Tyson’s resilience, Pastor Gene urges listeners to adopt a “win even in loss” attitude by remembering that earthly trials are temporary compared to heavenly glory. Holding onto the Spirit as a Guarantee: The Spirit of God is described as a down payment of the inheritance that awaits believers, reminding them that this world is not their home.…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Blessed – Part 4 33:36

8 weeks ago33:36

33:36

January 26, 2025 Ephesians 1:9-10 Ephesians 1:11-12 Ephesians 2:10 1 Corinthians 10:31 Pastor Gene’s sermon focuses on the theme of hope, trust, and recognizing God’s plan for our lives. Key points included: The Need for Hope: Just as the body requires essentials like food, water, and air, the soul requires hope to survive. Pastor Gene emphasized that losing hope leads to despair, while faith in Jesus provides a resilient source of hope. God’s Plan and Authority: Referencing Ephesians 1, Pastor Gene taught that God has a plan for everyone, a plan that is good and cannot be thwarted by circumstances, governments, or hardships. He emphasized the importance of submitting to the authority of Christ, as blessings and spiritual fulfillment flow from that submission. Trusting God’s Timing: He highlighted that God works according to His timing, not ours, and that faith requires trusting God’s plan even when life “stinks” or doesn’t make sense. Living as God’s Masterpiece: Pastor Gene reminded listeners that they are uniquely crafted by God for good works (Ephesians 2:10). He encourages you to stop speaking negatively about yourself, as doing so is like criticizing God’s masterpiece. Being the Good News: The pastor stressed that Christian responsibility extends beyond Sunday worship. Followers of Christ are called to live with excellence and kindness in their daily lives—at work, school, and in the community—becoming living testimonies of God’s love. Practical Faith: He urges the congregation to focus less on overcomplicated spiritual tests and more on simply doing good works and embodying the good news of Jesus.…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Blessed – Part 3 33:57

9 weeks ago33:57

33:57

January 19, 2025 Ephesians 1:19-20 2 Corinthians 4:7-9 Ephesians 1:21-22 Ephesians 3:14-16 This week’s sermon centers on the theme of recognizing and embracing the blessings God has already bestowed upon us, even during challenging times. Key Points: Acknowledging Blessings : Pastor Gene emphasized that believers are already blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ, which should inspire peace and joy regardless of circumstances. Power in Struggles : God’s power, the same that raised Jesus from the dead, is available to help believers navigate life’s difficulties. Struggles and challenges are a part of life, but God’s strength allows believers to not only survive but thrive. Faith and Renewal : Emotional, spiritual, and physical fatigue can be revitalized through God’s presence and power. Believers are encouraged to walk by faith and not by sight, trusting in God’s plan even when clarity is lacking. Resilience : The sermon included anecdotes and scripture (e.g., 2 Corinthians 4:7-9) to illustrate that being “knocked down” by life’s hardships does not equate to being destroyed. Believers should focus on how often they rise after being knocked down, drawing on God’s strength. Practical Steps : Admit when you’re struggling and seek God. Refuse to give up in the face of difficulties. Praise God in the midst of problems, acknowledging His sovereignty and power. Encouragement and Hope : Pastor Gene reminded listeners that God uses pressure to shape faith, realign priorities, and foster dependence on Him. Resurrection power, the hope of the gospel, and God’s presence provide assurance that believers are never alone. The sermon encourages listeners to rely on God’s strength during trials, celebrate His blessings, and remain steadfast in their faith journey.…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Blessed – Part 2 36:13

10 weeks ago36:13

36:13

January 12, 2025 Ephesians 1:3-4 Ephesians 1:7-8 Ephesians 2:8-9 James 1:20 https://fb.watch/xcipC1UoN3/ Pastor Gene’s sermon emphasizes the transformative power of God’s grace and mercy, contrasting human tendencies to earn favor with God’s gift of salvation, which is freely given. Using personal anecdotes, he highlights the joy of receiving undeserved mercy, likening it to being forgiven a penalty by law enforcement. The central message revolves around Ephesians 1 and 2, where Paul describes believers as “already blessed” with every spiritual blessing through unity with Christ. Pastor Gene stresses that salvation is a gift, not a reward for good deeds, and that Jesus “came down the ladder” to bring forgiveness to humanity. This realization, he argues, should lead to a life of gratitude, service, and love. Key takeaways include: Receiving Forgiveness : Understand that God’s forgiveness is unearned and complete. Practicing Forgiveness : Forgive others as God forgave us, resisting anger and offense in a divisive world. Living Blessed : Recognize and live in the assurance of God’s love, grace, and eternal promise, regardless of circumstances.…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Blessed – Part 1 30:45

11 weeks ago30:45

30:45

January 5, 2025 21 Days of Fasting & PrayerJanuary 6th-26th 3 Corporate times of prayer & worship:Wednesday 8th – 6:00pm to 7:00pmWednesday 15th – 6:00pm to 7:00pmWednesday 22nd – 6:00pm to 7:00pm Pastor Gene’s sermon revolves around the theme “Blessed,” which he introduces as the church’s focus for the new year. He emphasizes that true … Continue reading "Blessed – Part 1"…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Jesus Stories – Part 10 33:32

16 weeks ago33:32

33:32

December 1, 2024 The sermon by Pastor Gene, part of the “Jesus Stories” series, focuses on the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great value (Matthew 13:44-46). These parables emphasize the incomparable worth of the Kingdom of Heaven, likened to a treasure or a pearl that one should be willing to give … Continue reading "Jesus Stories – Part 10"…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Jesus Stories – Part 9 32:22

17 weeks ago32:22

32:22

November 24, 2024 This sermon emphasizes the transformative power of forgiveness through the lens of biblical teaching. The message begins with a reference to Joey Chestnut’s hot dog-eating records, drawing a parallel to overindulgence during Thanksgiving. However, the core of the sermon transitions to the topic of forgiveness, inspired by Peter’s question to Jesus in … Continue reading "Jesus Stories – Part 9"…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Jesus Stories – Part 8 35:26

18 weeks ago35:26

35:26

November 17, 2024 Pastor Gene’s sermon focuses on the parable of the talents (Matthew 25), emphasizing the importance of how we invest our lives for God’s kingdom. Key themes include: 1. Life as a Stewardship Responsibility 2. Eternal Accountability 3. The Risks and Rewards of Faith 4. Practical Application Closing Challenge Pastor Gene calls for … Continue reading "Jesus Stories – Part 8"…

Destiny Church sermons

1
Jesus Stories – Part 7 31:23

19 weeks ago31:23