THE SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD LIES BEHIND EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS
'I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. Romans 7:19 NLT
WHY DOES IT FEEL LIKE THERE IS INEQUITY IN THE WORLD?
And I saw something else under the sun: In the place of judgment—wickedness was there, in the place of justice—wickedness was there. Ecclesiastes 3:16 NIV
'I said to myself, “God will bring into judgment both the righteous and the wicked, for there will be a time for every activity, a time to judge every deed.” Ecclesiastes 3:17 NIV
'The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. 2 Peter 3:9 NLT
WHY DOES IT FEEL LIKE THERE IS OPPRESSION IN THE WORLD?
'Again I looked and saw all the oppression that was taking place under the sun: I saw the tears of the oppressed— and they have no comforter; power was on the side of their oppressors— and they have no comforter. Ecclesiastes 4:1 NIV
And I declared that the dead, who had already died, are happier than the living, who are still alive. But better than both is the one who has never been born, who has not seen the evil that is done under the sun. Ecclesiastes 4:2-3 NIV
WHY DOES IT FEEL LIKE THERE IS RIVALRY IN THE WORLD?
'And I saw that all toil and all achievement spring from one person’s envy of another. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. Ecclesiastes 4:4 NIV
Fools fold their hands and ruin themselves. Better one handful with tranquillity than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind. Ecclesiastes 4:5-6 NIV
WHY DOES IT FEEL LIKE IT’S THINGS OVER PEOPLE IN THIS WORLD?
'Again I saw something meaningless under the sun: There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. “For whom am I toiling,” he asked, “and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?” This too is meaningless— a miserable business! Ecclesiastes 4:7-8 NIV
'Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NIV
WHY DOES IT FEEL LIKE POPULARITY IS SO IMPORTANT IN THE WORLD?
'Better a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer knows how to heed a warning. The youth may have come from prison to the kingship, or he may have been born in poverty within his kingdom. I saw that all who lived and walked under the sun followed the youth, the king’s successor. There was no end to all the people who were before them. But those who came later were not pleased with the successor. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. Ecclesiastes 4:13-16 NIV
HOW SHOULD WE RESPOND TO THESE FEELNGS?
THERE ARE TWO WAYS WE LEARN IN LIFE
1. WE LEARN THINGS IN RETROSPECT
2. WE LEARN THINGS BY WISDOM
YOUR ATTITUDE IS THE RUDDER THAT GUIDES YOUR LIFE
Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong. Ecclesiastes 5:1 NIV
'Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. Ecclesiastes 5:2 NIV
'God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!; “Be still, and know that I am God! Psalms 46:1-3,10 NLT
THE SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD LIES BEHIND EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS
And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.” Genesis 2:16-17 NIV
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV
In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. Proverbs 16:9 NIV
a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:2-8 NIV
What do workers gain from their toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:9-11 NIV
'“You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased.”Revelation 4:11 NLT
FOUR PILLARS
1. GOD IS WISE
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 NLT
You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. Genesis 50:20 NLT
2. GOD IS ALSO MYSTERIOUS
He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV
Are we only fish to be caught and killed? Are we only sea creatures that have no leader? Habakkuk 1:14 NLT
Why then does my suffering continue? Why is my wound so incurable? Your help seems as uncertain as a seasonal brook, like a spring that has gone dry.” Jeremiah 15:18 NLT
3. WE CANNOT LET WHAT WE CANNOT KNOW DESTROY WHAT WE CAN ENJOY
I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. Ecclesiastes 3:12 NIV
That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God. Ecclesiastes 3:13 NIV
So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Matthew 6:34 NLT
4. REST IN THE SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD
'I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and v nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him. Ecclesiastes 3:14 NIV
Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will leave this life. Job 1:21 CSB
'Whatever is has already been, and what will be has been before; and God will call the past to account. Ecclesiastes 3:15 NIV
'But God knew what would happen, and his prearranged plan was carried out when Jesus was betrayed. With the help of lawless Gentiles, you nailed him to a cross and killed him. But God released him from the horrors of death and raised him back to life, for death could not keep him in its grip. Acts 2:23-24 NLT
Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Hebrews 12:15 NLT
“Unforgiveness is like drinking poison yourself and waiting for the other person to die.” -Marianne Williamson
'Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:14,17-21 NIV
TRUE JUSTICE IS PAYING ONLY ONCE FOR EACH MISTAKE. TRUE INJUSTICE IS PAYING MORE THAN ONCE FOR EACH MISTAKE.
1. HOW DO YOU RESPOND INWARDLY?
…For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. Luke 6:45 NIV
'Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Romans 8:5-7 NIV
HURT PEOPLE HURT PEOPLE
'A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT
The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts. Proverbs 26:22 NIV
A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends. Proverbs 16:28 NIV
'With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors, but through knowledge the righteous escape. A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret. Proverbs 11:9,13 NIV
“Self-pity is of the devil, and if I wallow in it, I cannot be used by God for his purpose in the world.” -Oswald Chambers
to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24 ESV
2. HOW DO YOU RESPOND OUTWARDLY?
THE REASON WE FEAR CONFRONTATION IS BECAUSE WE FEAR BEING EXPOSED AND BEING VULNERABLE.
He replied, “I heard you walking in the garden, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked.” Genesis 3:10 NLT
FEAR WILL MAKE YOU DO AT LEAST 1 OF 3 THINGS…. GET DISTANT, GET DEFENSIVE, AND/OR GET DEMANDING.
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 NLT
“If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses. Matthew 18:15-16 NLT
Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. Proverbs 12:18 NLT
Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19 NLT
GUIDELINES TO COMMUNICATING
Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you. Ephesians 4:29 GNT
Life of Community – Critical Need for Community
Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples. John 13:35 NLT
LOVE IN ACTION
“Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!” Romans 12:15-16 NLT
Community
Surgeon General’s Warning: Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation – Dr. Vivek H. Murthy
58% of Americans feel alone
73% of youth feel alone
Epidemic: an outbreak of disease that spreads quickly and affects many individuals at the same time
Disease: harmful deviation from the normal structure or functional state…
29% increased risk of heart disease
32% increased risk of stroke
50% increased risk of developing dementia
60% increased risk of premature death
The Critical Need for Community
1. We were created for community
“I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the Lord. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart.” Jeremiah 24:7
“The Lord God said, “it is not good for the man to be alone…” Genesis 2:18 NIV
Healthy Relationships keep us happier, healthier and help us live longer
2. We were created to navigate the highs and lows of life together
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 NIV
True friends never get in the way unless the way is down
“he was blameless-a man of complete integrity. He feared God and stayed away from evil.” Job 1:1 NLT
“When three of Job’s friends heard of the tragedy he had suffered, they got together and traveled from their homes to comfort and console him. Their names were Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite. When they saw Job from a distance, they scarcely recognized him. Wailing loudly, they tore their robes and threw dust into the air over their heads to show their grief. Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and nights. No one said a word to Job, for they saw that his suffering was too great for words.”
Job 2:11-13 NLT
Evaluate your current community
“Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NKJV
Life altering moments raise life-defining questions
Can you share your heart with them?
Can you communicate your joys with them?
Can you communicate your sorrows with them?
Can you share frustrations with them?
Can you share victories with them?
Can you share prayer requests with them?
Do they pray with you or for you?
Do they lift you up or tear you down?
Do they encourage you?
Do they add value to you?
Do they care about your spouse/family?
You can have connections and still be lonely
LIFE-GIVING community
3. Community Provides encouragement and accountability
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17 NIV
4. Community provides shared joy and celebration
“Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep” Romans 12:15
5. Community empowers us to fulfill our purpose
“All the believers were one in heart and mind.” Acts 4:32 NIV
TAKE HOME
Get in a life giving community
Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples. John 13:35 NLT
Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Romans 12:13 NIV
When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Romans 12:13 NLT
You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35 NLT
SIMPLY PUT, A GENEROUS LIFE IS A BLESSED LIFE.
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:24-26 NLT
The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25 NLT
THERE IS NOTHING MORE CHRISTLIKE THAN TO SELFLESSLY GIVE
'For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NIV
3 MINDSETS THAT SHAPE YOUR GENEROSITY
1. THERE IS NOT ENOUGH
You have planted much but harvest little. You eat but are not satisfied. You drink but are still thirsty. You put on clothes but cannot keep warm. Your wages disappear as though you were putting them in pockets filled with holes! Haggai 1:6 NLT
GENEROSITY DOES SOMETHING SPIRITUALLY IN OUR LIVES
'Elijah said to her, “Don’t be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small loaf of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. For this is what the Lord , the God of Israel, says: ‘The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the land. 1 Kings 17:13-14 NIV
Then the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the Lord from your mouth is the truth.” 1 Kings 17:24 NIV
Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11-13 NLT
2. THERE IS MORE THAN ENOUGH
Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.” Luke 6:38 NLT
3. THERE IS INFINITELY MORE THAN ENOUGH
“The lord will guarantee a blessing on everything you do and will fill your storehouses with grain. Deuteronomy 28:8 NLT
And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say, “They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.” For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. 2 Corinthians 9:8-11 NLT
ACTION STEPS
And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 2 Corinthians 9:7 NLT
You must each decide in your heart how much to give. 2 Corinthians 9:7
YOU CAN’T OUT GIVE GOD!
Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! Malachi 3:10 NLT
Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions. Matthew 7:20 NLT
Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. Matthew 7:21 NLT
'Later, when the other five bridesmaids returned, they stood outside, calling, ‘Lord! Lord! Open the door for us!’ “But he called back, ‘Believe me, I don’t know you!’ “So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return. Matthew 25:11-13 NLT
“Money creates problems. climbing one mountain exposes another, higher peak. however, there is something better out there: real virtue. it is its own reward. virtue is the one good thing that reveals itself to be more than we expect and something that one cannot have in degrees. we simply have it or we don't. And that is why virtue is The Only Thing Worth striving for.” Ryan Holiday
“If the path you're on isn't making you a more generous, compassionate, hopeful, and merciful person (or, in other words, more like Jesus), then the destination isn't worth the journey.” Carey Nieuwhof
'You were cleansed from your sins when you obeyed the truth, so now you must show sincere love to each other as brothers and sisters. Love each other deeply with all your heart. 1 Peter 1:22 NLT
So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples. John 13:34-35 NLT
1. People of Love have an Authentic Affection
Be devoted to one another in love. Romans 121:10 NIV
How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron’s head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And there the Lord has pronounced his blessing, even life everlasting. Psalms 133:1-3 NLT
“I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” Matthew 18:19-20 NLT
And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. Hebrews 10:25 NLT
'So let's not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time, we will harvest a good crop if we don't give up or quit. Therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith. Galatians 6:9-10 MSG
2. People of Love Honor one another.
Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10 NIV
My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others? For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes. If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—well, doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives? Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” James 2:1-4,8 NLT
EVERY PERSON IS SPECIAL TO GOD, EVERY PERSON MATTERS TO GOD, & EVERY PERSON IS LOVED BY GOD.
Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. Philippians 2:3-4 NLT
The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 NLT
SEEING VALUE IN PEOPLE IS NOT ABOUT THEIR VALUE TO YOU, BUT THEIR VALUE TO GOD.
3. People of Love have a Spiritual Enthusiasm
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Romans 12:11 NLT
So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. 1 Corinthians 15:58 NLT
Ministry is the pathway to maturity in our faith.
HOW DO WE INTENTIONALLY PURSUE HEALTH IN OUR CHURCH FAMILY?
1. WE RESPECT ONE ANOTHER
2. WE SHOW LOVE AND AFFIRMATION
3. WE GIVE SUPPORT
4. WE SPEND TIME TOGETHER
5. WE HAVE CRITICAL CONVERSATIONS
6. WE HAVE A SHARED MISSION WITH A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. Romans 12:9-17 NIV
I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:1-2 NLT
BOTH GIFTINGS AND GODLY CHARACTER MUST BE PRESENT FOR TRUE EFFECTIVENESS.
'You were cleansed from your sins when you obeyed the truth, so now you must show sincere love to each other as brothers and sisters. Love each other deeply with all your heart. 1 Peter 1:22 NLT
So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples. John 13:34-35 NLT
Love must be sincere. Romans 12:9 NIV
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Romans 12:9 NLT
“ Be tolerate with others and strict with yourself.” Marcus Aurelius
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.Romans 12:9 NIV
You who love the Lord, hate evil! Psalms 97:10 NLT
Hate evil and love what is good; turn your courts into true halls of justice. Amos 5:15 NLT
hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 NIV
'If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. John 15:19 ESV
'Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world.”John 18:36 ESV
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 1 John 2:15 ESV
1. It is not enough to simply choose Good over Evil.
2. You will eventually drift toward your desires and feelings.
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. So I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands. Psalm 63:1-4 ESV
So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Colossians 3:5NLT
Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. Colossians 3:5-6 NLT
You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. Colossians 3:7-9 NLT
Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves… Colossians 3:12 NLT
you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Colossians 3:12-15 NLT
Mercy/Compassion
Kindness
Humility
Gentleness
Patience
Forgiveness
Love
We need to learn how to walk in freedom so we make ourselves fully available to walk in His purpose for our lives
“In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets—some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing.” 2 Timothy 2:20-21 MSG
Will we be the conduit that God uses or not?
What in your life is keeping you from being the container or conduit that God wants to use?
Purpose
Life will never make sense until you live a life that is bigger than yourself
Purpose
“We have become his poetry, a recreated people that will fulfill the destiny {PURPOSE} he has given each of us, for we are joined to Jesus, the anointed one. Even before we were born, God planned in advance our destiny {PURPOSE} and the good works we would do to fulfill it!” Ephesians 2:10 TPT
“It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for... part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.” Ephesians 1:11 MSG
A life of purpose brings focus
“Where there is no vision, the people perish…” Proverbs 29:18 KJV
God didn’t call us to a “just enough” life…he called us to a thriving life
“A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.” John 10:10 MSG
“No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” Philippians 3:13-14
A life of purpose brings endurance
“So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should” 1 Corinthians 9:26-27
A life of purpose brings fulfillment
“And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches.” Philippians 4:19
When you align yourself with God, you will have an irrational amount of fulfillment
Your purpose will be found in living a life that is bigger than yourself
Fulfillment doesn’t chase success; fulfillment chases significance
“Once you’ve tasted significance, success will never satisfy” – John Maxwell
How Do I Find My Purpose?
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.” Ephesians 5:8-10 NIV
Live as children of the light (goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.”
1. Ask ourselves: “What do I need to stop doing?”
“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them... Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise...” Ephesians 5:11;15 NIV
Behind the darkness is God’s purpose for your life
“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then... you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2
“Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; your feet from following evil.” Proverbs 4:25-27
2. Ask yourself: “What do I need to start doing?”
“Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is” Ephesians 5:16-17 NIV
Dreams don’t just happen; They come to fruition by perseverance, character, and a fight for purpose
“remember, it is a sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.” James 4:17
“God, I invite your searching gaze into my heart. Examine me through and through; find out everything that may be hidden within me. Put me to the test and sift through all my anxious cares. See if there is any path of pain I’m walking on, and lead me back to your glorious, everlasting ways – the path that brings me back to you.” Psalms 139:23-24 TPT
3. Ask yourself: “What am I waiting for?”
“I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians
People that procrastinate talk about a life of purpose; people who take initiative live a life of purpose
TAKE HOME
1. START DOING WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
You can start changing the world, by impacting your world
How you start impacts your future
2. GO ABOVE AND BEYOND
The things in life that mean the most are forged through sacrifice
“If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles.” Matthew 5:41
3. STAY COMMITTED TO THE PROCESS
“for everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven…a time to plant and a time to harvest.” Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
Life is a series of seasons and God blesses those who are faithful during the process
The Word of God
“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105 NLT
330,222,422 Americans as of 2020
9% = 29,720,018
Approx. 205,000,000 proclaimed believers of Jesus in America
29,720,018 = 14%
Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. Joshua 1:6-8
If we are not careful and intentional, the world’s noise is what will define our hearts, not the Word of God
“…Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. Joshua 1:8 NLT
You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life. John 5:39-40
The reason people don’t believe that it has any power today is that we have stopped mixing our studying of the bible with faith
1. READING THE BIBLE DRAWS US CLOSER TO GOD
“IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD, AND THE WORD WAS WITH GOD, AND THE WORD WAS GOD.” JOHN 1:1-5 NIV
“Come close to God, and God will come close to you...” James 4:8 NLT
2. READING THE BIBLE GIVES US DIRECTION
“I AM THE LORD YOUR GOD, WHO TEACHES YOU WHAT IS GOOD FOR YOU AND LEADS YOU ALONG THE PATHS YOU SHOULD FOLLOW.” ISAIAH 48:17 NLT
“I WILL GUIDE YOU ALONG THE BEST PATHWAY FOR YOUR LIFE. I WILL ADVISE YOU AND WATCH OVER YOU.” PSALM 32:8 NLT
“YOUR WORD IS A LAMP TO GUIDE MY FEET AND A LIGHT FOR MY PATH.” PSALM 119:105 NLT
IF WE FOLLOW GOD’S GUIDANCE IT WILL LEAD US TO PEACE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS
3. READING THE BIBLE BRINGS US HEALING
“MY CHILD, PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT I SAY. LISTEN CAREFULLY TO MY WORDS. DON’T LOSE SIGHT OF THEM. LET THEM PENETRATE DEEP INTO YOUR HEART, FOR THEY BRING LIFE TO THOSE WHO FIND THEM, AND HEALING TO THEIR WHOLE BODY.” PROVERBS 4:20-22 NLT
“YOU WILL KNOW THE TRUTH AND THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE” JOHN 8:32
4. READING THE BIBLE GIVES US NOURISHMENT
“PEOPLE DO NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE, BUT BY EVERY WORD THAT COMES FROM THE MOUTH OF GOD.” MATTHEW 4:4 NLT
5. READING THE BIBLE REMINDS US OF WHAT GOD THINKS OF US
“I KNEW YOU BEFORE I FORMED YOU IN YOUR MOTHER’S WOMB. BEFORE YOU WERE BORN I SET YOU APART AND APPOINTED YOU AS MY PROPHET TO THE NATIONS.” JEREMIAH 1:5 NLT
“..BUT YOU ARE GOD’S CHOSEN TREASURE – PRIESTS WHO ARE KINGS, A SPIRITUAL ‘NATION’ SET APART AS GOD’S DEVOTED ONES. HE CALLED YOU OUT OF DARKNESS TO EXPERIENCE HIS MARVELOUS LIGHT, AND NOW HE CLAIMS YOU AS HIS VERY OWN…”1 PETER 2:9 TPT
1. GET A BIBLE THAT MAKES SENSE TO YOU
2. DOWNLOAD THE BIBLE APP
3. START A PLAN TODAY
4. BE INTENTIONAL & PRIORITIZE
➡ READ THE TRUTH
➡ MEMORIZE THE TRUTH
➡ MEDITATE ON TRUTH
➡ UNDERSTAND THE TRUTH
And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Ephesians 3:18-19
✓HOW WIDE IS THE LOVE OF GOD
“Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow.” Isaiah 1:18
He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. Psalms 103:12
✓HOW LONG IS THE LOVE OF GOD
I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me John 10:28
✓HOW DEEP IS THE LOVE OF GOD
Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form. Philippians 2:7
My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” Matthew 26:38-39
“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” 1 Peter 2:24
✓HOW HIGH IS THE LOVE OF GOD
Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God…. 2 Corinthians 2:15 NLT
And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength. Mark 12:30 NLT
“I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.” Romans 12:1 NLT
THE KEY TO A THRIVING RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD IS TRUST, WHICH IS DISPLAYED THROUGH ABANDONMENT TO GOD. THAT IS THE FOUNDATION OF WORSHIP.
Now he brought me back to the entrance to the Temple. I saw water pouring out from under the Temple porch to the east (the Temple faced east). The water poured from the south side of the Temple, south of the altar. He then took me out through the north gate and led me around the outside to the gate complex on the east. The water was gushing from under the south front of the Temple. He walked to the east with a measuring tape and measured off fifteen hundred feet, leading me through water that was ankle-deep. He measured off another fifteen hundred feet, leading me through water that was knee-deep. He measured off another fifteen hundred feet, leading me through water waist-deep. He measured off another fifteen hundred feet. By now it was a river over my head, water to swim in, water no one could possibly walk through. He said, “Son of man, have you had a good look?” Ezekiel 47:1-7 MSG
4 LEVELS OF CONTROL
He walked to the east with a measuring tape and measured off fifteen hundred feet, leading me through water that was ankle-deep. Ezekiel 47:3 MSG
Be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. James 1:6-8 NLT
He measured off another fifteen hundred feet, leading me through water that was knee-deep. Ezekiel 47:4 MSG
The LORD is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him. Lamentations 3:25 NLT
So now that you know God (or should I say, now that God knows you), why do you want to go back again and become slaves once more to the weak and useless spiritual principles of this world? Galatians 4:9 NLT
He measured off another fifteen hundred feet, leading me through water waist-deep. Ezekiel 47:4 MSG
Taste and see that the lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! Fear the lord, you his godly people, for those who fear him will have all they need. Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry, but those who trust in the lord will lack no good thing. Psalms 34:8-10 NLT
He measured off another fifteen hundred feet. By now it was a river over my head, water to swim in, water no one could possibly walk through. Ezekiel 47:5 MSG
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Galatians 5:24-25 NLT
THE REWARDS OF SURRENDER
Then he took me back to the riverbank. While sitting on the bank, I noticed a lot of trees on both sides of the river. He told me, “This water flows east, descends to the Arabah and then into the sea, the sea of stagnant waters. When it empties into those waters, the sea will become fresh. Wherever the river flows, life will flourish—great schools of fish—because the river is turning the salt sea into fresh water. Where the river flows, life abounds. Fishermen will stand shoulder to shoulder along the shore from En-gedi all the way north to En-eglaim, casting their nets. The sea will teem with fish of all kinds, like the fish of the Great Mediterranean. “The swamps and marshes won’t become fresh. They’ll stay salty. “But the river itself, on both banks, will grow fruit trees of all kinds. Their leaves won’t wither, the fruit won’t fail. Every month they’ll bear fresh fruit because the river from the Sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will be for food and their leaves for healing.” Ezekiel 47:7-12 MSG
Wherever the river flows, life will flourish…; Where the river flows, life abounds. Ezekiel 47:8-9 MSG
WHEN WE ABANDON OURSELVES TO GOD’S WILL & PRESENCE WE BECOME THE CHURCH. THEN WE GET TO BE A PART OF SEEING SOULS SAVED & PEOPLE HEALED.
HOW TO HAVE A LIFESTYLE OF WORSHIP
1. INCORPORATE GOD IN YOUR LIFE
“For the eyes of the LORD move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His.” 2 Chronicles 16:9 NLT
I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5 NLT
2. CHOOSE TO REMAIN COMMITTED
If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if he doesn’t, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up.” Daniel 3:17-18 NLT
3. BE OBEDIENT
Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. Hebrews 13:15-16 NLT
Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.” John 14:21 NLT
4. SHOW REVERENCE
But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. John 4:23 NLT
He takes no pleasure in the strength of a horse or in human might. No, the lord’s delight is in those who fear him, those who put their hope in his unfailing love. Psalms 147:10-11 NLT
Fear of the lord leads to life, bringing security and protection from harm. Proverbs 19:23 NLT
….True worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way.” John 4:23 NLT
REASONS WE STRUGGLE
“The problem is most people overestimate or underestimate spiritual warfare. Funny how the devil likes when we over believe or under believe just don't bible believe” C.S. Lewis
Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. Ephesians 6:10-11 NLT
For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12 NLT
Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Ephesians 6:13 NLT
KNOWING YOUR SPIRITUAL CLIMATE IS CRITICAL TO RECEIVING THE VICTORY THAT IS ALREADY YOURS.
The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. John 10:10 NLT
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. Matthew 6:13 NIV
…The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. James 5:16 NLT
EFFECTIVE WARFARE PRAYERS
Now I, Paul, appeal to you with the gentleness and kindness of Christ—We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do. 2 Corinthians 10:1;3 NLT
1. WE MUST GET OUR HEARTS RIGHT
Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil; Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:11:13-17 NLT
CHARACTER ALWAYS TRUMPS KNOWLEDGE
2. WE MUST FIGHT WITH THE RIGHT WEAPONS
We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons… 2 Corinthians 10:4 NLT
OUR FOUR PRIMARY WEAPONS
…Take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:17 NLT
“The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it. Isaiah 55:10-11NLT
He launches his promises earthward—how swift and sure they come! Psalms 147:15 MSG
WE NEED TO REPEAT GOD’S PROMISES UNTIL WE EXPERIENCE GOD’S PROMISE
Let the praises of God be in their mouths, and a sharp sword in their hands—Psalms 149:6 NLT
Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it! John 14:14 NLT
Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. Philippians 2:9-10 NLT
And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. Revelations 12:11 NLT
3. WE MUST UNDERSTAND THE REAL BATTLE
…knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. 2 Corinthians 10:4 NLT
And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. Ephesians 4:26-27 NLT
Do what is good and run from evil so that you may live! Amos 5:14 NLT
Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life. Ephesians 4:22 NLT
But if I am casting out demons by the power of God, then the Kingdom of God has arrived among you. For when a strong man like Satan is fully armed and guards his palace, his possessions are safe—until someone even stronger attacks and overpowers him, strips him of his weapons, and carries off his belongings. Luke 11:20-22 NLT
When an evil spirit leaves a person, it goes into the desert, searching for rest. But when it finds none, it says, ‘I will return to the person I came from.’ So it returns and finds that its former home is all swept and in order. Then the spirit finds seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they all enter the person and live there. And so that person is worse off than before. Luke 11:24-26 NLT
4. WE MUST HAVE THE RIGHT FOCUS
We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 NLT
For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NLT
ACTION STEPS
Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. 1 Peter 4:12 NLT
I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:12-14
He launches his promises earthward—how swift and sure they come! Psalms 147:15 MSG
WE NEED TO REPEAT GOD’S PROMISES UNTIL WE EXPERIENCE GOD’S PROMISES.
A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart. Luke 6:45 NLT
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21 NKJV
We all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. James 3:2 NLT
I love you I hate you
We are having baby I wish you were never born
You look great You've gained weight
I’m giving you a raise You are incompetent
I see potential in you. You are a failure
You’re smart You’re stupid
You make me happy You annoy me
I forgive you I should have never married you
I do I want a divorce
WHEN WE PULL THE TRIGGER OF NEGATIVE WORDS TOWARDS SOMEONE IT’S LIKE SPIRITUALLY SHOOTING THEM. WE BECOME LIFE-TAKING!
So the lord God formed from the ground all the wild animals and all the birds of the sky. He brought them to the man to see what he would call them, and the man chose a name for each one. He gave names to all the livestock, all the birds of the sky, and all the wild animals. Genesis 2:19-20 NLT
THE TRUTH OF WORDS
1. THEY FLOW FROM OUR THOUGHTS
Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 2 Corinthians 11:14 NLT
Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. 2 Corinthians 4:4 NLT
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 4:23
My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. Proverbs 4:20-22 NLT
2. THEY SHAPE OUR FUTURE
WE MUST STOP SPEAKING NEGATIVITY INTO A LIFE THAT IS FILLED WITH POSSIBILITIES.
MIRACLES ARE RESTING ON THE TIP OF OUR TONGUES, AND WE HAVE TO WAKE THEM UP AND START SPEAKING THE PROMISES OF GOD AND HIS GOD-ORDAINED DESIGN IN OUR LIFE!
This was their report to Moses: “We entered the land you sent us to explore, and it is indeed a bountiful country—a land flowing with milk and honey. Here is the kind of fruit it produces. Numbers 13:27 NLT
But the people living there are powerful, and their towns are large and fortified. We even saw giants there, the descendants of Anak!… But Caleb tried to quiet the people as they stood before Moses. “Let’s go at once to take the land,” he said. “We can certainly conquer it!” But the other men who had explored the land with him disagreed. “We can’t go up against them! They are stronger than we are!”…We even saw giants there, the descendants of Anak. Next to them we felt like grasshoppers, and that’s what they thought, too!” Numbers 13:28;30-31;33 NLT
WE HAVE TO CONSTANTLY SPEAK ABOUT WHAT WE WANT TO BE IN LIFE.
3. THEY LEAD TO VICTORY
As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water. Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?” When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” Mark 4:35-40 NLT
Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” Mark 4:35 NLT
God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. Has he ever spoken and failed to act? Has he ever promised and not carried it through? Numbers 23:19 NLT
WHEN WE PRAISE AND THANK GOD WE SEE BEYOND OUR CURRENT REALITY AND INTO OUR GOD-GIVEN DESTINY
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. Philippians 4:6-7 NLT
ACTION STEPS
Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Colossians 4:2 NLT
Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29 NLT
…Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT
I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom, and I have clear direction for my life.
I am blessed with creativity, courage, ability, and with abundance.
I am blessed with a strong will, self-control, and self-discipline.
I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, and with faith, favor, and fulfillment.
I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion, and divine protection.
I am blessed with an obedient heart and with a positive outlook on life.
I declare that any curse that has ever been spoken over me, any negative evil word that has ever come against me, is broken right now.
I am blessed in the city.
I am blessed in the country.
I am blessed when I go in.
I am blessed when I come out.
Everything I put my hands on is going to prosper and succeed.
I claim these promises in the powerful name of Jesus!
HEAVEN MOVES POWERFULLY THROUGH OUR PRAYERS
And when the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures saw the Lamb had taken the scroll, they fell facedown at the feet of the Lamb and worshiped him. Each of them had a harp and golden bowls brimming full of sweet fragrant incense—which are the prayers of God’s holy lovers. Revelation 5:8 TPT
(The Angel) was given a great quantity of incense to offer up, consisting of the prayers of God’s holy people, upon the golden altar that is before the throne. And the smoke of the incense with the prayers of the holy ones billowed up before God from the hand of the angel. Then the angel filled the golden incense burner with coals of fire from the altar and hurled it onto the earth Revelation 8:3-5 TPT
CONTINUAL PRAYERS CAUSE A RELEASING OF THE MOVE OF GOD
So above all, constantly chase after the realm of God’s kingdom and the righteousness that proceeds from him. Matthew 6:33 TPT
Ask, and the gift is yours. Seek, and you’ll discover. Knock, and the door will be opened for you. For every persistent one will get what he asks for. Every persistent seeker will discover what he longs for. And everyone who knocks persistently will one day find an open door. Matthew 7:7-8 TPT
Tremendous power is released through the passionate, heartfelt prayer of a godly believer! Elijah was a man with human frailties, just like all of us, but he prayed and received supernatural answers. James 5:16-17 NLT
Forgiveness
Forgiveness
The pain you feel today is the pain you can heal today
Bitterness
“…And make sure no one lives with a root of bitterness sprouting within them which will only cause trouble and poison the hearts of many.” Hebrews 12:15 TPT
Forgiveness is a choice
Why is it so hard to forgive others?
1. We have the wrong idea of forgiveness
Forgiveness is not:
- Minimizing the hurt you feel or the offense that took place
- Reconciliation
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18 NIV
Forgiveness is our choice
I will not let my external circumstances dictate the condition of my heart
- Instant Restoration of Trust
Through true forgiveness, it is possible to build trust again
2. We don’t think its fair
Forgiveness
For(Give)ness
“but God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” Romans 5:8 NLT
If we are waiting for the other person to be worthy of forgiveness we will never forgive
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT
3. We don’t think we can forgive
“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
“THE LESSONS OF FORGIVENESS IN HEAVEN’S KINGDOM REALM CAN BE ILLUSTRATED LIKE THIS: THERE ONCE WAS A KING WHO HAD SERVANTS WHO HAD BORROWED MONEY FROM THE ROYAL TREASURY. HE DECIDED TO SETTLE ACCOUNTS WITH EACH OF THEM. AS HE BEGAN THE PROCESS, IT CAME TO HIS ATTENTION THAT ONE OF HIS SERVANTS OWED HIM ONE BILLION DOLLARS. SO HE SUMMONED THE SERVANT BEFORE HIM AND SAID TO HIM, ‘PAY ME WHAT YOU OWE ME.’ WHEN HIS SERVANT WAS UNABLE TO REPAY HIS DEBT, THE KING ORDERED THAT HE BE SOLD AS A SLAVE ALONG WITH HIS WIFE AND CHILDREN AND EVERY POSSESSION THEY OWNED AS PAYMENT TOWARD HIS DEBT. THE SERVANT THREW HIMSELF FACEDOWN AT HIS MASTER’S FEET AND BEGGED FOR MERCY. ‘PLEASE BE PATIENT WITH ME. JUST GIVE ME MORE TIME AND I WILL REPAY YOU ALL THAT I OWE.’ UPON HEARING HIS PLEAS, THE KING HAD COMPASSION ON HIS SERVANT, AND RELEASED HIM, AND FORGAVE HIS ENTIRE DEBT.”
“NO SOONER HAD THE SERVANT LEFT WHEN HE MET ONE OF HIS FELLOW SERVANTS, WHO OWED HIM TWENTY THOUSAND DOLLARS. HE SEIZED HIM BY THE THROAT AND BEGAN TO CHOKE HIM, SAYING, ‘YOU’D BETTER PAY ME RIGHT NOW EVERYTHING YOU OWE ME!’ HIS FELLOW SERVANT THREW HIMSELF FACEDOWN AT HIS FEET AND BEGGED, ‘PLEASE BE PATIENT WITH ME. IF YOU’LL JUST GIVE ME TIME, I WILL REPAY YOU ALL THAT IS OWED.’
“BUT THE ONE WHO HAD HIS DEBT FORGIVEN STUBBORNLY REFUSED TO FORGIVE WHAT WAS OWED TO HIM. HE HAD HIS FELLOW SERVANT THROWN INTO PRISON AND DEMANDED HE REMIAN THERE UNTIL HE REPAID THE DEBT IN FULL”
“WHEN HIS ASSOCIATES SAW WHAT WAS GOING ON, THEY WERE OUTRAGED AND WENT TO THE KING AND TOLD HIM THE WHOLE STORY. THE KING SAID TO HIM ‘YOU SCOUNDREL! IS THIS THE WAY YOU RESPOND TO MY MERCY? BECAUSE YOU BEGGED ME, I FORGAVE YOU THE MASSIVE DEBT THAT YOU OWED ME. WHY DIDN’T YOU SHOW THE SAME MERCY TO YOUR FELLOW SERVANT THAT I SHOWED TO YOU?
“IN A FURY OF ANGER, THE KING TURNED HIM OVER TO THE PRISON GUARDS TO BE TORTURED UNTIL ALL HIS DEBT WAS REPAID. IN THIS SAME WAY, MY HEAVENLY FATHER WILL DEAL WITH ANY OF YOU IF YOU DO NOT RELEASE FORGIVENESS FROM YOUR HEART…” MATTHEW 18:23-35 TPT
“…RELEASE FORGIVENESS FROM YOUR HEART…” MATTHEW 18:35 TPT
“FORGIVENESS IS SETTING THE PRISONER FREE, ONLY TO FIND OUT THE PRISONER WAS ME” CORRIE TEN BOOM
There is freedom on the other side of your forgiveness
1. Examine Your Heart and Be Honest with Yourself
You cannot win a battle you won’t admit you’re in
“Leave your troubles with the lord, and he will defend you; he never lets honest people be defeated.” Psalms 55:22 GNTD
2. Realize That God Knew There Would Be Offenses in our Lives and That He Equipped Us with All We Need to Properly Forgive
“…It’s impossible...” Luke 17:1 NKJV
“Then He said to His disciples…It’s impossible that no offenses should come…” Luke 17:1 NKJV
“Make allowance for each other’s faults and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all clothe yourselves with LOVE, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace.” Colossians 3:13-15 NLT
Love
3. Make the Choice to Forgive and Continue to Forgive
Forgiveness is not a One-Time Thing
“THEN PETER CAME TO HIM AND ASKED, ‘LORD, HOW OFTEN SHOULD I FORGIVE SOMEONE WHO SINS AGAINST ME? SEVEN TIMES?” “NO, NOT SEVEN TIMES,” JESUS REPLIED, “BUT SEVENTY TIMES SEVEN!” MATTHEW 18:21-22
4. Pray for the One Who Hurt You
“Father forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34
Take Home: Forgive Someone You Need to Forgive
THE ACT OF GIVING UP CONTROL TO JESUS IS ACTUALLY THE BEGINNING OF FREEDOM!
Trust in the lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT
You are good and do only good; teach me your decrees. Psalms 119:68 NIV
Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. James 4:8 NLT
The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Psalms 37:23 NLT
For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:9 NLT
WHAT YOU HOLD ONTO BECOMES YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO MAINTAIN, BUT WHAT YOU SURRENDER TO GOD HE BARES.
Then Jesus said, Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 NLT
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you 1 Peter 5:7 NLT
3 AREAS WE MUST SURRENDER
1. MATERIALISM
You say, ‘I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!’ And you don’t realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked. Revelation 3:17 NLT
The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced. Matthew 13:22 NLT
ASK YOURSELF IF THERE IS ANYTHING IN YOUR LIFE YOU WOULD’NT GIVE UP IF GOD ASKED YOU TO. THEN ASK WHY?
Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. 1 Timothy 6:17 NLT
ACTION STEP: EVALUATE THE GIVING IN YOUR LIFE.
Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine. Proverbs 3:9-10 ESV
Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.
“No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:21,24,33 NLT
And if your wealth increases, don’t make it the center of your life. Psalms 62:10 NLT
“Don't set your mind on things you don't possess as if they were yours, but count the blessings you actually possess and think how much you would desire them if they weren't already yours." -Marcus Aurelius
2. RELATIONSHIPS
If you want to be my disciple, you must hate everyone else by comparison—your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:26 NLT
For the believing wife brings holiness to her marriage, and the believing husband brings holiness to his marriage….Don’t you wives realize that your husbands might be saved because of you? And don’t you husbands realize that your wives might be saved because of you? 1 Corinthians 7:14;16 NLT
even though God had told him, “Isaac is the son through whom your descendants will be counted.” Abraham reasoned that if Isaac died, God was able to bring him back to life again. Hebrews 11:18-19 NLT
ACTION STEP: EVALUATE IF THERE IS A RELATIONSHIP THAT HAS COME BETWEEN YOU AND GOD.
3. MYSELF
This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed. Habakkuk 2:3 NLT
ACTION STEP: EVALUATE WHETHER YOU THINK YOUR WAYS ARE BETTER THAN HIS.
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33 NLT
My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 4:20-23 NLT
SPIRITUALLY OUR HEARTS REVEAL THE HEALTH OF OUR LIVES.
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 4:23 NLT
The lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the lord looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 NLT
FOUR BLOCKAGES OF THE HEART
1. SELFISHNESS
Then he said to the crowd, "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. Luke 9:23 NLT
BLOCKAGE CAN OCCUR WHEN WE WANT TO DO WHAT IS BEST FOR OURSELVES RATHER THAN WHAT IS BEST FOR GOD!
He (JESUS) chose to share the oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin. Hebrews 11:25 NLT
But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. James 3:14-16 NIV
2. BITTERNESS
It is impossible that no offenses should come… Luke 17:1 NKJV
A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel. Proverbs 18:19 NIV
3. REJECTION
The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Proverbs 18:21 NLT
4. EVIL THOUGHTS
For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you.” Mark 7:21-23 NLT
THE HEART GOD DESIRES FOR US
A Heart for HIM
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 NLT
As they listen, their secret thoughts will be exposed, and they will fall to their knees and worship God, declaring, “God is truly here among you.” 1 Corinthians 14:25 NLT
A Heart for others
Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 1 John 4:8-9 NLT
This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 1 John 4:10 NLT
Love is not love unless it is felt and seen
ACTION STEPS
And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations. Ezekiel 36:26-27 NLT
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalms 139:23-24 NLT
Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Psalms 51:10 NLT
Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 5:18
Freedom
God desires for you to live in freedom
“For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters.” Galatians 5:13
“Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling. For you have been called by God.” Ephesians 4:1 NLT
You can’t lead a life that is worthy of the calling God gave you if you aren’t walking in the freedom that He designed you to live in
To live in freedom we must choose freedom
Tree of Life
The Tree of Life takes the focus off me and my strengths and puts the focus on God and His strengths
“For I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 NKJV
Freedom was never meant to be hard
“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
“Then Jesus said, “Come to me…” Matthew 11:28
“And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to Earth.” John 17:3
The only way to experience freedom and life in its fullest is by truly knowing Jesus
Intimacy with God is what produces innocence in our lives
“If you love me, obey my commandments.” John 14:15
“...they realized they were naked.” Genesis 3:7 NIV
But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” Matthew 19:14
Innocence is a Conduit of God’s Power
How to Live from the Tree of Life
Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2
1. Understand fully your relationship with God
“Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir.” Galatians 4:7
Do you live as an heir or as a slave?
“Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.” Romans 5:1-2
2. You must recognize the choice between life and death
The choice is ours
God’s will and direction always aligns with His word and leads us to life. If it is against His word it will lead us to death.
“So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you.... Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.” Colossians 3:5;10
“Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So, letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.” Romans 8:5-7
3. Renew your mind through the word of God
You must replace the devil’s lies with the Truth of God
When we read the word, speak the word, and believe the word we defeat the devil!
“Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.” Ephesians 4:21-24
“Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:8-9
Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. 1 Thessalonians 5:23 NLT
3 PARTS
1. THE SOUL
MIND
WILL
EMOTIONS
“So fear the Lord and serve him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols your ancestors worshiped when they lived beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt. Serve the Lord alone. But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord .” Joshua 24:14-15 NLT
2. THE BODY
Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. James 1:14-15 NLT
3. THE SPIRIT
'Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart… Ecclesiastes 3:11 NLT
But the person who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with him. 1 Corinthians 6:17 NLT
And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. Romans 7:18-20 NLT
YOU CAN’T GET YOUR EXTERNAL LIFE IN ORDER IF YOUR INTERNAL LIFE IS OUT OF ORDER.
Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Romans 7:24 NLT
Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 7:25 NLT
WHO IS IN CONTROL?
1. ARE MY CHOICES LEADING ME TOWARD COMPROMISE?
You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. And even though “I am allowed to do anything,” I must not become a slave to anything. 1 Corinthians 6:12 NLT
DON’T SETTLE FOR TEMPORARY CRAVINGS THAT CAN NEVER SUSTAIN YOU!
2. IS MY LIFE REFLECTING GOD?
“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5:14;16 NLT
For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man. 2 Corinthians 8:21 NIV
THE WORLD SHOULD SEE OUR LIVES AND DESIRE WHAT WE HAVE IN JESUS!
Most People are insecure... Give them Confidence
Most People want to feel special... Compliment them
Most People want a bright future... Give them hope
Most People need to be understood... Listen to them
Most People want direction... walk with them
Most People are selfish... speak to their needs first
Most People get emotionally low... Encourage Them
Most People want to be included... Ask their opinion
Most People want success... Help them win
Most People want to be appreciated... Give them credit
3. AM I TREATING MY BODY AS TEMPLE?
Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NLT
WHAT IF YOU VIEWED YOUR OWN BODY WITH THAT MUCH RESPECT AND REVERANCE AND STRIVE TO LIVE A HOLY LIFE?
Don’t you realize that your bodies are actually parts of Christ? Should a man take his body, which is part of Christ, and join it to a prostitute? Never! 1 Corinthians 6:15 NLT
For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:8 NIV
The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work. 2 Timothy 2:20-21 NLT
ACTION STEPS
JESUS DID THREE SIMPLE THINGS.
1. HE MEASURED ALL INVESTMENTS OF TIME AGAINST HIS PURPOSE.
2. HE TOOK TIME FOR SOLITUDE WITH THE FATHER.
3. HE DIDN’T TRY TO DO TOO MUCH.
Properly understood and managed, time is easily one of our best friends. poorly appreciated and mismanaged, it becomes a formidable enemy. Gordon MacDonald
ALONE TIME
PERSONAL TIME
GROWTH TIME
Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. II Corinthians 4:16 NKJV
Now the Lord God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed. The Lord God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Genesis 2:8-9 NLT
Tree of Life TREE OF KNOWLEDGE OF GOOD & EVIL
*FREEDOM *BONDAGE
*GRACE *THE LAW
*ETERNAL LIFE *LEADS TO DEATH
*GOD IS GOOD *GOD IS GOOD TO HIS FAVORITES
*GOD IS FORGIVING *GOD IS A JUDGE
*GOD IS LOVING *GOD IS ANGRY
SIN SEPARATES US FROM LIFE AND BROADCASTS THE MESSAGE OF THE TREE OF KNOWLEDGE.
This includes you who were once far away from God. You were his enemies, separated from him by your evil thoughts and actions. Colossians 1:21 NLT
…God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross. Colossians 1:20 NLT
For “Everyone who calls on the name of the lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13 NLT
EVERY PERSON CAN LIVE IN FREEDOM THAT COMES FROM JESUS!
Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8 NLT
1. THE DEVIL MAKES YOU QUESTION GOD'S COMMANDS
He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” Genesis 3:1 NIV
THE DEVIL CANNOT TAKE AWAY THE PROMISES OF GOD, BUT WHAT HE CAN DO IS MAKE YOU QUESTION THE PROMISES OF GOD
The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy... John 10:10 NLT
So that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes. 2 Corinthians 2:11 NLT
But the Lord God warned him, “You may freely eat the fruit of every tree in the garden—except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat its fruit, you are sure to die.” Genesis 2:16-17 NLT
The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made. One day he asked the woman, “Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?” Genesis 3:1 NLT
THE MOMENT YOU START WRESTLING WITH A SIN YOU WILL ALLOW YOUR EMOTIONS TO DO THE ANSWERING
Do what is good and run from evil so that you may live! Amos 5:14 NLT
2. THE DEVIL MAKES YOU QUESTION GOD’S INTENTIONS
16. But the Lord God warned him, “You may freely eat the fruit of every tree in the garden— 17. except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat its fruit, you are sure to die.” Genesis 2:16-17 NLT
THE DEVIL WANTS YOU TO IGNORE THE FREEDOM GOD GIVES YOU AND ONLY FOCUS ON YOUR LIMITATIONS
GOD IS NOT ROBBING YOU, HE IS PROTECTING YOU!
God’s way is perfect. All the Lord’s promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. Psalms 18:30 NLT
For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation Psalms 100:5 NLT
3. THE DEVIL TAKES US THROUGH THE PROCESS OF TEMPTATION
Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. James 1:14-15 NLT
TEMPTATION
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Hebrews 4:15 NIV
FANTASY
“You will never make yourself feel that you are a sinner, because there is a mechanism in you as a result of sin that will always be defending you against every accusation. We are all on very good terms with ourselves, and we can always put up a good case for ourselves. Even if we try to make ourselves feel that we are sinners, we will never do it. There is only one way to know that we are sinners, and that is to have some dim, glimmering conception of God.” -Martyn Lloyd-Jones
STEP TOWARDS SIN
Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:22 NIV
ACT OF SIN
DEATH
There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. Proverbs 14:12 NLT
4. THERE IS VICTORY OVER TEMPTATION
So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. James 1:16-17 NLT
The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. 1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT
ACTION STEPS
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NIV
Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. James 5:16 NLT
And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39 NLT
WE CAN LIVE IN FREEDOM EVERYDAY
Now the Lord God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed. The Lord God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.” Genesis 2:8-9;16-17 NLT
KNOWLEDGE IS YOUR MINDSET.
Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” Genesis 3:1 NIV
The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 2 Corinthians 10:4 NLT
The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’ ” “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman.“For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Genesis 3:2-5 NIV
There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. Proverbs 14:12 NLT
There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. Proverbs 16:25 NLT
When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. Genesis 3:6 NIV
3 ROOTS OF SIN
For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. 1 John 2:16-17 NIV
Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. Genesis 3:7 NIV
THE CHOICE BETWEEN DEATH & LIFE
DEATH SAYS: GETTING TO GOD MEANS I MUST DO MORE
God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. Ephesians 2:8-9 NLT
LIFE SAYS: RECEIVE THE FACT THAT JESUS HAS ALREADY DONE IT
“You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life. John 5:39-40 NLT
DEATH SAYS: KEEP TRYING TO GET GOD’S APPROVAL
…So they hid from the lord God among the trees. Then the lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” He replied, “I heard you walking in the garden, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked.” “Who told you that you were naked?” the lord God asked. “Have you eaten from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat?” Genesis 3:8-11 NLT
LIFE SAYS: RECEIVE THE FACT THAT HE ALREADY LOVES YOU
But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8 NLT
DEATH SAYS: WE OBEY OUT OF DUTY
LIFE SAYS: WE OBEY OUT OF DELIGHT
In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome…Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. 1 John 5:3;12 NIV
TEMPTATION OR COMPROMISE DOESN'T EXPOSE OUR WEAKNESSES IN WILLPOWER, BUT A WEAKNESS IN OUR RELATIONSHIP.
ACTION STEPS
1. FALL IN LOVE WITH JESUS
If you love me, keep my commands. John 14:15 NIV
2. SERVE GOD THROUGH RELATIONSHIPS NOT RULES
Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. Matthew 5:17 NIV
3. RESPOND TO ALL SIN WITH LIFE
So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. Romans 8:1-2 NLT
4. GUARD YOUR HEART FROM GOING BACK.
Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9 NLT
* WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO TO BE RIGHTEOUS AND GODLY?
Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life… Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NLT
WHEN ANGER LEADS TO ACTIONS THERE TENDS TO BE NEGATIVE REPERCUSSIONS
And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for
You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’ But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell. Matthew 5:21-22 NLT
ANGER AND INSULTS ARE AN UGLY SYMPTOMS OF A DESIRE TO GET RID OF SOMEONE WHO STANDS IN OUR WAY. - JOHN STOTT
'What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. ' James 4:1-2 NIV
So if you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God. “When you are on the way to court with your adversary, settle your differences quickly. Otherwise, your accuser may hand you over to the judge, who will hand you over to an officer, and you will be thrown into prison. And if that happens, you surely won’t be free again until you have paid the last penny. Matthew 5:23-26 NLT
JESUS’ TWO EXAMPLES
1. BROTHERS
2. ENEMIES
NOT BEING CONTROLLED BY ANGER
1. ANGER IS NOT THE PROBLEM, BUT OUR RESPONSE CAN BE.
"What such a man needs is not courage but nerve control, cool-headedness. This he can get only by practice.” -Theodore Roosevelt
'Short-tempered people do foolish things… Proverbs 14:17 NLT
'Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back.' Proverbs 29:11 NLT
'When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. ' Psalms 32:3
Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Hebrews 12:15 NLT
2. EXAMINE YOUR PRIORITIES
'From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead. But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!” Jesus turned to Peter and said, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.”
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. ' Matthew 16:21-25 NLT
'My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. ' Galatians 2:20 NLT
take up your cross daily, and follow me. Luke 9:23 NLT
“A MAN ON HIS FACE CAN NEVER FALL DOWN” - LARRY STOCKSTILL
'Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. ' Galatians 5:24 NLT
'We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin. ' Romans 6:6-7 NLT
“Always remember, others may hate you, but those who hate you don’t win unless you hate them. And then you destroy yourself.” Richard Nixon
3. A UNIFIED CHURCH IS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE
'For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.' Ephesians 6:12 NLT
'Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven.' Matthew 16:18-19 NLT
As for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died. ' Galatians 6:14 NLT
The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you. John 15:19 NLT
"It is impossible to please all men; there will always be those who criticize you, no matter what you do. So focus on doing what is right, and let the rest go." Epictetus
Makarios: Joy which has its secret within itself, that joy which is serene and untouchable, and self-contained that joy which is completely independent of all the chances and changes of life.
THE FOUR SOCIAL QUALITIES THAT ARE BLESSED
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. Matthew 5:7 ESV
1. COMPASSIONATE IN SPIRIT: O the bliss of the merciful!
'Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.' Hebrews 2:17-18 NLT
'For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. ' Romans 3:23 NLT
'Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord… Romans 7:24-25 NLT
A LACK OF MERCY AND COMPASSION IS EVIDENCE OF SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS
“Tolerant with others. Strict with yourself.” Marcus Aurelius
Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord . Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.” Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good. Romans 12:19-21 NLT
Later, Matthew invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. But when the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such scum?” When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.” Then he added, “Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: ‘I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.’ For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” Matthew 9:10-13 NLT
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8 ESV
2. PURE HEART. PURE VISION: O bliss of the Sincere!
'“What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy—full of greed and self-indulgence! You blind Pharisee! First wash the inside of the cup and the dish and then the outside will become clean, too.' Matthew 23:25-26 NLT
'“Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?” Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”' Matthew 22:36-40 NLT
Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25
WHAT YOU TRAIN FOR YOU BECOME!
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Matthew 5:9 ESV
3. STRIVING FOR PEACE: O the bliss of those who create harmony!
'Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. ' Romans 12:17-18 NLT
PUBLIC CRITICISMS NEVER CHANGE ANYONE. HOWEVER, PRIVATE CONVERSATIONS IN LOVE DO.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Matthew 5:9 ESV
'And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.' Romans 8:17 NLT
...by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. ' Colossians 1:20 NIV
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10 ESV
4. UNSWERVING LOYALTY: O the bliss of the sufferer for Christ!
Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength. They are buried as natural human bodies, but they will be raised as spiritual bodies. For just as there are natural bodies, there are also spiritual bodies. 1 Corinthians 15:43-44 NLT
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:11-12 NIV
THE TRUTH IS THAT YOUR LOYALTY IS ROOTED IN YOUR TRUST LEVEL OF GOD AND THAT DETERMINES YOUR VICTORY!
'They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. ' Revelation 12:11 NIV
We are multipliers!
We are a Great Commission Church and we are an equipping center for disciples.
We are multipliers!
Individually, we are all responsible to disciple those younger in their faith and invite those far from Jesus into a life-giving community.
We are multipliers!
Corporately, we are called to plant churches, pastor cities, and father and mother leaders to multiply the Kingdom impact.
We are multipliers!
Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20 NLT
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts of the Apostles 1:8 NLT
WE BELIEVE AS A CHURCH IN THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST, OR IN OTHER WORDS THE FACT THAT JESUS IS COMING AGAIN!
After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven?
Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!” Acts 1:9-11
OVER 300 REFERENCES IN N.T. OF JESUS’ RETURN
216/260 CHAPTERS IN THE N.T. REFERENCE JESUS’ RETURN
23 OF THE 27 N.T. BOOKS REFERENCE JESUS’ RETURN
But because God was so gracious, so very generous, here I am. And I’m not about to let his grace go to waste. Haven’t I worked hard trying to do more than any of the others? 1 Corinthians 15:10 MSG
Here's what I know great vision takes three things:
It takes a Praying Church, a Selfless Church, and a strategic Church.
But the leader in charge of the synagogue was indignant that Jesus had healed her on the Sabbath day. “There are six days of the week for working,” he said to the crowd. “Come on those days to be healed, not on the Sabbath.” But the Lord replied, “You hypocrites! Each of you works on the Sabbath day! Don’t you untie your ox or your donkey from its stall on the Sabbath and lead it out for water? This dear woman, a daughter of Abraham, has been held in bondage by Satan for eighteen years. Isn’t it right that she be released, even on the Sabbath?” Luke 13:14-16 NLT
GOD IS LESS INTERESTED IN WHAT YOU ARE DOING AND MORE INTERESTED IN WHY YOU ARE DOING WHAT YOU ARE DOING.
Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:27 NLT
The Lord is more pleased when we do what is right and just than when we offer him sacrifices. Proverbs 21:3 NLT
But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!” Jesus turned to Peter and said, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.”
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:22-26 NLT
“Paul and Silas have caused trouble all over the world,” they shouted, “and now they are here disturbing our city, too. Acts of the Apostles 17:6 NLT
Go after a life of love as if your life depended on it—because it does. 1 Corinthians 14:1-2 MSG
Give yourselves to the gifts God gives you. 1 Corinthians 14:1-2 MSG
Most of all, try to proclaim his truth. 1 Corinthians 14:1-2 MSG
But because God was so gracious, so very generous, here I am. And I’m not about to let his grace go to waste. Haven’t I worked hard trying to do more than any of the others? 1 Corinthians 15:10 MSG
What is Influence – Week 4
INFLUENCE
WE ARE MULTIPLIERS
LOVE
THE CHARACTER OF POSITIVE INFLUENCE
How not to be a negative influence
How not to be negatively influenced
How to become a person of Influence
A Person of Influence has integrity with people
A Person of Influence Nurtures People and Relationships
A Person of Influence Has Faith in People
A Person of Influence Listens to People
A Person of Influence Seeks to Understand People
How to Become a Person of Influence
All we need is interaction to influence
A person of influence connects with People
When you connect with people you come alongside them
“Soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, “Please give me a drink.” He was alone at the time because his disciples had gone into the village to buy some food. The woman was surprised, for Jews refuse to have anything to do with Samaritans. She said to Jesus, “You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. Why are you asking me for a drink?” Jesus replied, “If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water.” “But sir, you don’t have a rope or a bucket,” she said, “and this well is very deep. Where would you get this living water?…” Jesus replied, “Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” “Please, sir,” the woman said, “give me this water! Then I’ll never be thirsty again, and I won’t have to come here to get water.”
“Go and get your husband,” Jesus told her. “I don’t have a husband,” the woman replied. Jesus said, “You’re right! You don’t have a husband— for you have had five husbands, and you aren’t even married to the man you’re living with now…”
When we see people as God sees them, have faith in them, nurture the interaction, listen with the intent to understand, and build an intentional connection we unlock the opportunity for God to shine through.
…Then Jesus told her, “I Am the Messiah!” Just then his disciples came back. They were shocked to find him talking to a woman, but none of them had the nerve to ask, “What do you want with her?” or “Why are you talking to her?” The woman left her water jar beside the well and ran back to the village, telling everyone,
“Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did! Could he possibly be the Messiah?” So the people came streaming from the village to see him….Many Samaritans from the village believed in Jesus because the woman had said, “He told me everything I ever did!” When they came out to see him, they begged him to stay in their village. So he stayed for two days, long enough for many more to hear his message and believe. Then they said to the woman, “Now we believe, not just because of what you told us, but because we have heard him ourselves. Now we know that he is indeed the Savior of the world.”” John 4:7-42 NLT
1. Don’t take people for granted
2. Possess a “Make a difference” mindset
Can we reach the masses better apart or better together?
3. Look for common ground
4. Recognize and have respect for difference in personality
“The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ…we have all been baptized into one body by One Spirit, and we all share the same spirit. Yes the body has many different parts, not just one part. If the foot says, “I am not a part of the body because I am not a hand,” that does not make it any less a part of the body and if the ear says, “I am not part of the body because I am not an eye, would that make it any less a part of the body? If the whole body were an eye, how would you hear? Or if your whole body were an ear, how would you smell anything?” 1 Corinthians 12:12-17 NLT
5. Communication comes from the heart
As people of influence we need to be wall climbers not wall builders
6. Once Connected, move forward, be intentional, and lean in
A Person of Influence Empowers People
When we empower others, we are not influencing just them; we are influencing all the people they influence
When we empower we multiply
1. Evaluate the strengths of the person
No amount of knowledge or skill can drive someone to make an impact if they don’t desire to do it themselves
2. Give People Permission to succeed
3. Be there for support and feedback
“You’re never good your first time.” John Maxwell
4. Release them to continue on their own
A person of influence multiplies other influencers
“The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” Matthew 9:37-38 NLT
“The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” Matthew 9:37-38 NLT
MULTIPLIERS
We are multipliers!
We are a Great Commission Church which means we are multipliers.
Individually, we are all responsible to disciple those younger in their faith and invite those far from Jesus into a life-giving community.
Corporately, we are called to plant churches, pastor cities, and father and mother leaders to multiply the Kingdom impact.
We are multipliers!
Everyone has the potential to multiply influence by multiplying influencers
1. Be a person of character and integrity
2. Nurture your relationships and interactions
3. Have faith in people
4. Listen to people
5. Seek to understand people
6. Connect with people
7. Empower People
THEN
8. We can multiply