Sermon Title: Trouble Won’t Trap Me Sunday 3/09/2025 Pastor Steven T. Morrow

Sermon Title: "Trouble Won’t Trap Me" – Pastor Steven T. Morrow | Pleasant Hill MBC

Life brings challenges, but trouble doesn’t have to control you! In this powerful sermon, Pastor Steven T. Morrow of Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church dives into Psalm 34:19, reminding us that though the righteous face many afflictions, God delivers us from them all. Learn how to break free from cycles of hardship, trust in God’s promises, and step into your breakthrough. Don't stay trapped—God has already provided the way out!

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Trouble Won't Trap Me: Escaping Trouble Before It Manifests Problems By Pastor Steven T. Morrow

 

Trouble Won't Trap Me: Escaping Trouble Before It Manifests Problems

By Pastor Steven T. Morrow

Psalm 34:19 – "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivereth him out of them all."

Introduction: Trouble is Inevitable, But It Doesn’t Have to Control You

Brothers and sisters, one thing is certain in life—trouble is unavoidable. It’s not a question of if, but when. Even Jesus said in John 16:33, "In this world, you shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." Trouble is not the real issue; the problem arises when we allow trouble to transform into something greater—problems that control our lives.

Some kinds of trouble bring depression, and that depression can manifest into a deeper problem. Before we know it, we lose our joy, our peace, and even our hope. But let me tell you today—trouble won’t trap you!

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Trouble is Like an Escape Room

Imagine you’re in an escape room game. The objective is to move through the challenges and find your way out. If you stay in one room too long, the game becomes more difficult. In the same way, when we remain stuck in trouble, it can evolve into something that holds us captive:

• A bad relationship can turn into emotional trauma.

• A financial struggle can create a poverty mindset.

• A moment of sadness can become deep depression.

But here’s the good news—God never leaves us trapped in a room we can’t escape from! He provides the way out through His Word, His Spirit, and His promises. The question is: Are you moving forward, or are you allowing trouble to trap you?

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I. Trouble is Real, But Jesus is More Real

Psalm 34:19 – "Many are the afflictions of the righteous..."

 John 16:33 – "In the world, ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."

Affliction is trouble in its heaviest form. Trouble is like a storm—you can still move forward. But affliction? It presses you down, making it feel impossible to escape.

The Two Kinds of Trouble:

1. Trouble That Comes to You – Sometimes, we don’t invite trouble; it finds us.

   • Financial hardship

   • Unexpected sickness

   • Betrayal by loved ones

   Biblical Example: Job – Job didn’t choose trouble; it found him. But he endured, and God restored him!

2. Trouble We Choose to Live In – Some people don’t just go through trouble; they stay in it.

   • Remaining in toxic relationships

   • Repeating financial mismanagement

   • Entertaining drama and negativity

   Proverbs 26:11 – "As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly."

Key Point: Some people are not trapped in trouble—they are attached to it.

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II. Trouble is Temporary, But God’s Promises Are Forever

Psalm 34:19 – "...but the Lord delivereth him out of them all."

2 Corinthians 4:17 – "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory."

1. Trouble Has an Expiration Date

• No matter how bad it seems, trouble won’t last forever.

• The word delivereth is a continuous action—meaning God keeps delivering!

2. Deliverance is Like Rain: Washing Away Trouble Just as rain purifies the air, God’s deliverance washes away burdens. After a storm, the air is fresh, and new growth begins. In the same way, God refreshes and restores us!

Isaiah 43:19 – "Behold, I will do a new thing..."

Declaration: Trouble won’t trap me—God’s deliverance is washing me clean!

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III. No Trouble, No Breakthrough!

Psalm 34:19 – "...but the Lord delivereth him out of them all."

There is no breakthrough without a battle, no testimony without a test! Every hardship is not meant to break you—it’s meant to push you into your breakthrough!

Biblical Examples of Trouble Leading to Breakthrough:

• Joseph had to go through the pit before reaching the palace.

• Job had to endure loss before receiving double for his trouble.

• Jesus had to go to the cross before rising in victory!

Somebody shout—NO TROUBLE, NO BREAKTHROUGH!

The scripture doesn’t say maybe the Lord will deliver us. It says He will deliver us out of them ALL! That means every storm, every affliction, every battle—GOD BRINGS YOU OUT!

The trouble was temporary, but the breakthrough is permanent!

The storm was strong, but our Deliverer is STRONGER!

Final Thought: If you’ve been in trouble, get ready for your breakthrough!

Somebody praise God—because BREAKTHROUGH is here!

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Closing Thought: God’s Deliverance is Our Reality!

Trouble may last for a moment, but God’s promise lasts for eternity.

Your suffering is temporary, but your breakthrough is permanent.

Affliction may press me, but it won’t break me, because I KNOW God will deliver me!

Somebody shout—TROUBLE WON’T TRAP ME!

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Final Call to Action:

Are you ready to escape the trouble that has tried to trap you? Are you willing to walk out of the cycles of stress, dysfunction, and pain? The Lord is your Deliverer, and today is your day of freedom! Drop a "Trouble Won’t Trap Me!" in the comments and let’s stand in faith together!

If this message blessed you, share it with someone who needs encouragement today!

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The Instructions on Going Through – Philippians 4:13Pastor Steven T. Morrow | Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church

 Pastor Steven T. Morrow | Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church

The Instructions on Going Through – Philippians 4:13

Pastor Steven T. Morrow | Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church

Keep Looping: Break Through Your Challenges

No matter what you are facing, Philippians 4:13 reminds us: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Keep looping—keep pushing. Life’s challenges do not have the final say. This message will empower you to persevere, overcome obstacles, and walk in victory. Learn how to speak to your mountains, reclaim your strength, and find joy in the process.

Do not stop now—your breakthrough is on the other side.

Join us at Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Kalamazoo
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Standing on Your Foundation

A Message from My Heart By Pastor Steven T. Morrow

 A Message from My Heart

By Pastor Steven T. Morrow

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God has called me to be a servant to His people. As a servant, one of my greatest responsibilities is teaching His will, His ways, and His Word. My role as a pastor is not just to deliver sermons but to guide others in living within the framework of the Gospel—a life rooted in truth, love, and transformation.

The Bible, in Galatians 6:2, calls us to bear one another’s burdens. This is a beautiful expression of the compassion and support we are meant to offer one another. However, this does not mean endlessly enabling someone who consistently avoids responsibility or refuses to grow. True burden-bearing is about providing compassionate, temporary support in times of genuine need, while also encouraging personal responsibility and setting healthy boundaries.

Let me be clear: Galatians 6:2 does not mean the church exists to act as a personal concierge. Nor does it call us to continue serving those who, after being taught the Scriptures, choose not to apply them. The church’s mission is to provide spiritual guidance, accountability, and support to those genuinely seeking growth and transformation—not to perpetuate dysfunction or dependency.

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The Church’s Role vs. Expectations

It’s remarkable how often the church is expected to solve personal and community problems, yet some of those same people show little or no commitment to the church’s growth or upbuilding. When I speak of growth, I’m not just referring to money. True growth involves participation, service, and a shared effort to uplift and transform the community. Unfortunately, it’s often those who contribute the least—whether financially, spiritually, or through service—who demand the most.

Some might argue that the church should always give, no matter what. While the church is called to help, it also has a responsibility to steward its resources wisely. The church’s purpose is not just to provide temporary relief but to guide individuals toward lasting spiritual and personal growth. This requires a mutual commitment from both the church and the people it serves.

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Criticism of the Church

A recurring criticism is that the church “just wants people’s money” and that pastors are “pimps” or “con artists.” I understand that some churches and leaders have fallen short, but these isolated instances should not overshadow the tireless efforts of so many churches striving to serve their communities with integrity.

What troubles me is the lack of similar accountability for businesses in our communities, such as liquor stores and convenience stores, that profit from dysfunction. These establishments feed into habits like alcoholism and unhealthy lifestyles, hindering personal and community growth. They capitalize on struggles without offering anything back, yet the church—which seeks to restore and uplift—is often the first to be criticized.

Some might say, “You can’t compare businesses to the church because businesses don’t claim to help people.” But that’s precisely the issue. The church is held to a higher standard, and rightly so, but shouldn’t we also hold accountable those who profit from the community’s pain? If we expect the church to uplift the community, shouldn’t we expect the same—or more—from businesses that exploit its dysfunction?

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Spiritual and Financial Contributions

I know some people feel disconnected from the church, believing it isn’t meeting their needs. To this, I say: the church’s primary role is spiritual guidance. While material aid is important, the church cannot carry every burden alone. Contributions to the church are not just about money—they include time, service, and a willingness to work together. Even those who are struggling financially can contribute by actively participating in the church’s mission and supporting its growth in other ways.

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A Call for Reflection

I share these thoughts not to alienate or judge but to encourage honest reflection and dialogue. The church is not perfect, but it exists to serve, uplift, and transform lives. A healthy relationship between the church and its community requires mutual respect, accountability, and shared responsibility.

If you feel the church can do better, I invite you to share your thoughts and get involved. Let’s work together to build something stronger, not just for ourselves but for the entire community.

The church’s mission is sacred: to uplift, restore, and transform. But transformation isn’t one-sided—it requires all of us to do our part. Let’s commit to being part of the solution and creating a community that reflects the love and grace of God.

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Pastor Steven T. Morrow
Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church of Kalamazoo

Sermon Title: He Compels Me to Transformation Pastor Steven T. Morrow

A Heart of Gratitude: Reflections on Psalm 107:1-9 From Pastor Steven T. Morrow

A Heart of Gratitude: Reflections on Psalm 107:1-9

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." – Psalm 107:1

As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, it is fitting to pause and reflect on the deep well of God’s goodness and the enduring nature of His love. Psalm 107:1-9 offers a beautiful framework for gratitude, reminding us that thanksgiving isn’t just a response to material blessings but a declaration of God’s unchanging character and faithful provision.

God’s Enduring Goodness

The psalm opens with a universal call: "Give thanks to the Lord." Why? Because He is good. His goodness is not conditional or circumstantial; it is the very essence of who He is. When we reflect on this truth, our gratitude becomes less about our fleeting circumstances and more about the eternal nature of God’s character. Even in seasons of lack or hardship, His goodness remains steadfast.

The Anchor of His Love

The psalmist declares, "His love endures forever." In a world where promises are broken and relationships falter, God’s love stands as a constant anchor. This enduring love sustains us through life’s storms and reminds us that we are never abandoned. Gratitude flows naturally when we understand that His love is not based on our worthiness but on His unchanging faithfulness.

Redemption and Deliverance

Verses 2-3 say, "Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south."
These words remind us that our gratitude has a history. God’s redemptive work in our lives is not a distant memory but a living testimony. We all have a story of how God has rescued, redeemed, and restored us. Thanksgiving becomes a time to share these stories, encouraging one another and glorifying God for His faithfulness.

God’s Provision for the Weary

Verses 4-9 paint a vivid picture of God’s care for those in desperate need:

• "They were hungry and thirsty, and their lives ebbed away."
  This describes the physical and spiritual hunger that many of us face in life’s wilderness seasons.
• "Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress."
  The turning point comes when we call out to God. His deliverance is sure, and His provision is abundant.

The psalm concludes with a joyful declaration: "For he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things." God not only meets our needs but does so lavishly, filling our hearts and souls with His goodness.

Living a Life of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving isn’t limited to a holiday; it’s a lifestyle. Psalm 107:1-9 calls us to:

1. Remember God’s goodness and enduring love.
2. Share our stories of redemption and deliverance.
3. Celebrate His provision in our lives, even in the small things.

As you reflect on this passage, consider the ways God has been faithful in your life. Take time to express your gratitude—through prayer, sharing your testimony, or serving others as an outpouring of God’s love.

This Thanksgiving, let us echo the psalmist’s words and "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good." His love truly endures forever.

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Blessings,
Pastor Steven T. Morrow
Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church
"A New Day, A Church, A New Journey"

What If Black America Built a Nation Within a Nation? By Pastor Steven T. Morrow

 What If Black America Built a Nation Within a Nation?

By Pastor Steven T. Morrow

Imagine a world where Black America operates as a self-sustained, thriving community within the broader fabric of the United States—a nation within a nation. Not separate, but distinct. Not divisive, but focused. Not isolated, but empowered. What if we took the blueprint of governance, economy, and culture, and applied it to create a robust ecosystem that addresses the unique needs of our people while amplifying our contributions to society?

This idea isn't about leaving America but about living fully within it, leveraging our strengths to uplift ourselves and influence the policies and practices that shape our lives. Here's how such a vision might take shape:

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Governance: A Structure of Representation

At the center of this concept is a governance structure modeled after the American system, but tailored to address systemic issues within Black communities. Imagine a president, elected solely by African-Americans, whose role is to listen, advocate, and act on behalf of the community. This president would have a cabinet dedicated to critical areas like education, healthcare, justice, and economic development.

On the state and local levels, governors, senators, and mayors would work within regions to ensure that concerns from grassroots communities are elevated to national leadership. These leaders would not operate in isolation but would focus on building bridges between local needs and national goals, all while maintaining strong advocacy within the broader American government.

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Economy: Building a Black Economic Ecosystem

The power of a nation lies in its economic strength. For too long, Black dollars have left our communities almost as quickly as they arrived. What if we changed that? By creating a Black economic ecosystem, we could ensure that our wealth circulates multiple times within our businesses before leaving.

This would mean:

• Investing in Black-owned businesses: From grocery stores to tech startups, we’d prioritize ownership in every essential industry.
• Creating Black financial systems: Banks, credit unions, and investment funds tailored to support community ventures and individual dreams.
• Job creation and workforce training: Programs designed to fill gaps in industries critical to a thriving economy, like healthcare, construction, and technology.

Such an approach could create generational wealth, reduce unemployment, and strengthen the overall economic fabric of America.

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Cultural Renaissance: Reclaiming Our Narrative

A nation within a nation must have a strong cultural identity. This means investing in schools that teach our history accurately and with pride, developing media platforms that tell our stories, and building institutions that celebrate our contributions.

Imagine:

• Afrocentric curricula in every school, highlighting not just the pain of our history but the triumphs and innovations of our people.
• Media outlets owned and operated by us, where the world sees Black excellence daily.
• Community events that bring people together to celebrate culture, foster unity, and inspire the next generation.

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Political Power: The Influence of Unity

The true strength of a nation lies in its ability to shape the policies that govern it. By organizing as a cohesive political force, Black America could become one of the most influential voter blocs in the country. With a clear agenda and strong leadership, we could push for policies that uplift not just our communities but the entire nation.

This isn’t about separating ourselves from the broader American system—it’s about ensuring that system works for everyone. By voting strategically, lobbying effectively, and building alliances, we can influence the direction of the country while prioritizing our unique needs.

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Working Within America: Strength Through Relation

What makes this vision so powerful is that it doesn't seek to work against America but within it. By building a nation within a nation, we strengthen our ability to thrive without isolating ourselves. Our contributions to the economy, culture, and political landscape would not only benefit Black America but would also enrich the country as a whole.

This idea is about unity—not just within our community, but with the broader fabric of America. It’s about recognizing that our success uplifts everyone. It’s about rewriting the narrative of what’s possible when a community is empowered to take its destiny into its own hands.

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Conclusion: Turning Vision Into Reality

What if Black America truly became a nation within a nation? What if we focused our energy on creating systems that work for us, by us, while contributing to the greater good of society? This is not just a dream; it is a possibility. But it starts with unity. It starts with vision. And it starts with us taking the first step toward building the world we want to see.

Together, we can create something remarkable—not just for our generation, but for those who come after us.

Let’s start building.

It’s the Power for Me: Embracing the Life-Changing Power of the Gospel By Pastor Steven T. Morrow

 

It’s the Power for Me: Embracing the Life-Changing Power of the Gospel

By Pastor Steven T. Morrow

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Scripture Focus: Romans 1:16-17 (NIV)

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’”

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Have you ever felt stuck—like you’re missing something essential to move forward in life? Maybe you feel like the young car salesman in my story, struggling to close the deals of life. That young man lacked three key things: title, power, and knowledge. But once he embraced these essentials, he became unstoppable.

In Romans 1:16-17, Paul tells us where true power comes from: the gospel. He declares boldly, “I am not ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” The gospel gives us what we need: the title of child of God, the power to overcome, and the knowledge of who God is and who we are in Him.

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Dynamic Power in the Gospel

Paul’s words remind us that the gospel isn’t just a story—it’s dynamic power. The Greek word used here, “dynamis,” is where we get the words “dynamic” and “dynamite.” It signifies strength, ability, and transformative energy. When you accept the gospel, you unlock this divine power to change your life.

But what does this power mean for us? Paul shows us two key aspects of this dynamic power:

1. Salvation (Soteria): The gospel delivers us from sin and its consequences, transforming our relationship with God and our eternal destiny.
2. Transformation: The gospel’s power doesn’t just rescue us; it changes us completely—from our past to our present and future.

Paul isn’t ashamed of the gospel because he’s experienced this power firsthand. It saved him, changed him, and equipped him to live boldly for Christ. And that same power is available to you.

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Living in the Power of the Gospel

How do we live in this power? Like the goldfish that thrives in water, we must remain in the "water" of the gospel. When we step out of it, we lose strength and direction. But when we stay immersed, the gospel gives us everything we need to thrive.

The Bible reminds us in 2 Corinthians 4:7-9:
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”

The gospel’s power sustains us in every trial. It gives us strength to overcome challenges, grace to heal from past wounds, and courage to press forward.

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The Gospel Changes Everything

The gospel doesn’t just change your present; it also redeems your past. Paul emphasizes that the gospel’s power is for everyone—Jew and Gentile alike. No matter your background, mistakes, or failures, the gospel reaches into your history and brings transformation.

Philippians 3:13-14 reminds us:
“Forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

Through the gospel, you can press past:

• Bad choices
• Broken relationships
• Past failures
  Because the gospel’s power is dynamic, it equips you to leave the old behind and embrace a new future in Christ.

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Embracing the Power Today

The time is now to embrace the life-changing power of the gospel. It’s time to pray more, study more, and walk more in the will, ways, and Word of God. When you do, you’ll find:

• A new title: You are a child of God, fearfully and wonderfully made.
• New power: Strength to overcome trials, doubts, and even your own insecurities.
• New knowledge: A deeper understanding of God’s love and purpose for your life.

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Closing Encouragement

The gospel is for you. Its power is ready to transform your life, redeem your past, and equip you for the future. As Jesus said in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” This peace is unlike anything the world can offer—it’s a peace that sustains and transforms.

Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Step into the power of the gospel today and let it change everything. With God’s power, you are unstoppable.

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Remember: “It’s the power for me!” Let it be the power for you, too.