You Were Built for This: Why the Storm Won’t Break You!

Matthew 16:18 – “Upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”

There’s something powerful about hearing God say, “I’ve already spoken your protection and your victory." That’s not just a feel-good moment—it’s a foundational truth. This week, our Pastor Dr. GreGory reminded us that we are not fighting for victory; we are standing in it.

Christ Himself declared it: The gates of hell shall not prevail. That means the attacks might come, but they can’t overthrow what God has already established. His Word is quick, powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword.

Trust the Building Process

Dr. GreGory reminded us that being built by God doesn’t always feel good. He compared our spiritual journey to a masonry process—each stone is set, tapped, and aligned for strength. Those taps—disappointments, delays, and stretching moments—aren’t meant to break us. They’re shaping us, aligning us with purpose.

We learned that when your foundation is firm—when it’s built on the Word—your house won't crack under pressure. The pounding seasons prepare you for prevailing seasons.

Jesus Be a Fence

One of the most visual moments of the message was when we were asked to “put a fence around ourselves.” A fence of protection, a spiritual barrier. That wasn’t just a metaphor—it was a prophetic act. A reminder that we have spiritual authority to open and close gates in our lives. What we allow in and what we block out makes all the difference.

You’re Looking for More, But God Says You Already Have It

Pastor challenged us to recognize that what we’re seeking might already be in our hands, but we’ve got to walk in it. We’ve got to receive it. He's already given us what we need. But sometimes, that means letting go—of old habits, past relationships, or even sentimental objects that carry spiritual residue.

Surrender Your Mind

There was a moment when the Spirit settled in the room and Pastor prayed, “Take my mind, transform it. Take my will and conform it.” That is the posture we must carry, a full surrender of thoughts, will, and desires—not because we’re perfect, but because we’re willing. We’re not here to share God's glory. We're here to reflect it.

Stand Tall, Rock

As we neared the close, Dr. GreGory charged us to look at our neighbor and say, “What’s up, Rock?”—a bold reminder that we are the rock Jesus is building on. We are powerful beings with divine backup. When God laid your foundation, He factored in every storm, every trial, every setback—and still declared, “You prevail.”

So walk like someone who’s already been equipped. Shut the gate to doubt. Open the gate to purpose. And don’t let the tapping discourage you—it’s proof that God is building something strong in you.

Let your faith speak louder than your fear. Let your praise silence every lie. And no matter what comes, stand firm. Because on this rock, you will not break—you will build.

What gate do you need to focus on this week?

• Shut the gate to fear or defeat.
• Open the gate to peace.
• Open the gate to purpose.
• Shut the gate to distractions.