Main Idea: Do not doubt downstream what God has shown you upstream.
Upstream: Time spent with God, preparation, manufacturing of character and faith.
Downstream: Marketing, broadcasting, dealing with life’s situations.
Importance of Upstream
Spend time with God upstream for readiness downstream.
In business terms, upstream is where creation happens; downstream is the marketing and sales.
Modern society spends more time marketing (downstream) who they are rather than being with God (upstream).
Practical Advice
Identify and avoid downstream distractions and doubts.
Focus on what God tells you upstream to handle downstream challenges.
Time spent with God strengthens character for any situation.
Biblical Context
John the Baptist: Even he had downstream doubts about Jesus.
Biblical Distances: The Jordan River crossing—20 miles; Jesus' move to Capernaum from Nazareth—20 miles.
Jesus in Galilee: Fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah, illuminating the importance of upstream activities for downstream outcomes.
Personal Anecdotes
Brandon Lake: Wanted to learn songwriting from Elevation 12 years ago, was denied, eventually ended up writing music with the speaker, illustrating a long-term upstream preparation.
Jesus' Miracles: Healing and transformation often happened 20 miles away, emphasizing the distance between cause (upstream) and effect (downstream).
Spiritual Lessons
Some challenges are about fulfilling God's greater purpose, not just personal growth.
Encouragement to trust God's plan and timing, even if it is not immediately visible.
God’s actions upstream prepare us and generate significant downstream impacts without us seeing all the details.
Steps to Take
Spend more time in prayer, scripture, and seeking God’s presence (upstream activities).
Believe and act upon what God has shown you, even if outcomes are not immediately visible.
Trust in God’s faithfulness to act and provide for downstream needs.
Final Encouragement
God's words and promises can reach and effect change regardless of distance or visible progress.
Keep faith and believe in a “20-mile turnaround” where God’s intervention can create profound change in your life.
Praise and trust God actively, recognizing His ability to fight battles and create breakthroughs.