The Source of Our Blessings

 “The Source of Our Blessings”

1 Chronicles 29:9-20

SUBJECT: STEWARDSHIP

THEME: Trust the Lord as your Source for all things.

RELEVANCE: recognizing the Lord as the real source of our blessings encourages us to endure the discomforts of financial reverses, become good stewards, and give generously to his work. Though the Lord may use a second job, a promotion, a relocation, a new company, another position or an entrepreneurial endeavor; it is imperative that we view Him as our complete Source first. This is one key to being more optimistic and hopeful during major financial reverses. We must trust Him to satisfy our needs. 

INTRODUCTION:

The Bible is filled from cover to cover with the goodness of God. Our heavenly Father is always giving, always loving, always generous toward His children especially as we walk in obedience. In Genesis, He gives the man and woman a perfect Garden of Eden. In Revelation, we read about our ultimate home, a perfect and eternal heaven. In all the books in between, we read how God delighted in blessing His people. At the outset of the New Testament, we read how God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, as His ultimate gift of all spiritual blessings to us. The Scriptures reveal what God is like.

MESSAGE:

I.  God is the Source to Satisfy All Our Needs.

1 Chron. 29:11, Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all.

1 Chron. 29:14, But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee. (Also see verse 16).

    — God truly is the Author of all of life; eternal life and many fortunes are included in His great plan. The sovereignty of God over all material affluence is stated clearly in 1 Chronicles 29:9–14. These words of King David also reflect the general attitude we should have toward God’s provisions.

    — If we were to summarize David’s statement while applying these concepts in three short sentences, we would likely say:

            1. The Lord is the real owner of everything.

            2. The Lord gives generously to His people—His children.

            3. We would be wise to give Him thanks and praise for what He has given us.

    — Jesus certainly held to this same conclusion when He taught His disciples to conclude their times of prayer by saying, “. . . For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.” (Matt. 6:13).

    — God owns everything, has all authority to dispense with it as He chooses, and is worthy of all praise for what He does forever. And let it be so!

A.  GOD DESIRES TO BESTOW MANY BLESSINGS UPON HIS CHILDREN.

    1.  Notice the Promises of Blessings to Israel.

When David reflected about going up to the house of the Lord in Jerusalem, he sang,

Psalm 122:6-7, Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee. [7] Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces.

He gave us a prayer that we can pray for all Believers, a prayer that is totally in line with God’s will for His people. Now notice the promise of God in the days of King Jehoshaphat: 2 Chron. 20:20, And they rose early in the morning, and went forth into the wilderness of Tekoa: and as they went forth, Jehoshaphat stood and said, Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem; Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.

King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah prayed and were told by the prophet Jahaziel that the battle was not theirs, but God’s. They were called to action by having faith in God and his prophets before they go out to face their enemies. They were not to be afraid, and they would not have to fight on this occasion, as the Lord would fight for them. The next morning, Jehoshaphat rallied the people, urging them to believe in the Lord their God to be established and to believe his prophets to prosper. So, the people then went out to face the enemy, with singers leading the way and praising the Lord. As they sang, God defeated the enemy army, and when the people arrived at the battle site, they found all their enemies dead. Through an act of trust, God came through for His people again!

    2.  Notice the Promises of Blessings to Us as Christians.

The Scriptures are filled with verses that tell us of God’s goodness, His inexhaustible resources, and His desire to advance His people. God’s desire for you is victory (knowing and executing His purpose)—that you might have all you need to operate on His behalf and the capacity to enjoy doing so.  As you read the verses below, apply them to your life.

James 1:17, Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. 

Ephesians 1:3, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

Philip. 4:19, But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 

We have received every spiritual blessing from God through Jesus Christ. Certainly, we are right to be thankful and appreciative people who readily admit our needs and our utter dependence upon Him for everything. God has already met our spiritual needs, and He is willing to meet our material needs as well as we trust Him. This is especially true for those who have sacrificed their needs to see His plans advance.

B.  GOD NATURALLY PROVIDES FOR HIS PEOPLE.

Psalm 34:8-10, O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. [9] O fear the Lord, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him. [10] The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing. 

We are invited and encouraged to experience God’s goodness for ourselves; we must trust Him to bless us accordingly. We are also urged to revere (fear or respect) the Lord, assured that we will not be disappointed if we do. When we contrast the temporary hunger of young lions with the eternal provision for those who seek the Lord, we are further promised we will not be deprived of any good thing.

    1. Our Resources are Limited.

When we limit ourselves to our own ability and resources, we find that we run out of both ability and resources very quickly. The situation is marked by scarcity, shortages, and depletion due to multiple wants. It is no surprise that such depletion becomes our reality. Strictly speaking, our supplies are finite, and our services are essential for life and production, creating scarcity and forcing harder choices about their use. This idea applies to physical resources, as well as intangible ones like time and skills. Because our resources are finite, individuals, businesses, and societies must prioritize and make trade-offs, considering the opportunity cost of their decisions. It is how we function with serious limitations.

    2.  God’s Resources are Unlimited.

When we focus our faith on what God can do for us, we encounter an infinite supply that cannot be measured and therefore cannot be depleted. He has unlimited resources in Heaven and Earth, because He created it all. And God knows exactly how to supply our needs and some of our wants. His power, wisdom, and blessings are all unlimited. He has more than enough to meet any need we may have. God’s resources are 100 percent inflation-proof, depression-proof, and recession-proof.

Psalm 139:1-18 reflects on God’s complete knowledge of our situation, from our thoughts to every action. We are encouraged by God’s inescapable presence in heaven, hell, and all parts of the earth. Beloved, it is appropriate to conclude with praise for being “fearfully and wonderfully made,” with all of life’s days written in God’s book before they even happen.

The very nature of God gives us assurance of His abundant provisions: (Ps. 139:1-18). We can see God’s intimate knowledge, His inescapable presence, His power over darkness and light, and His creative authority and plan!

So, when it comes to All-knowing—God knows your need. He knows it even better and before you do.

So, when it comes to All-powerful—God has all power to supply to you what you need.

So, when it comes to Ever-present—God is at work even now to meet your needs.

Remember Psalm 23:1 states, “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want”. This metaphor of a shepherd describes God’s care and provision for His followers, assuring us that our needs will be satisfied. God is a loving protector, provider, and guide, so our needs will be satisfied under His care. We are correct to look to Him for direction and grace.

C.  GOD’S PROVIONS SHOULD BE REFLECTED ON OFTEN.   

Not only do you and I have the character of God as our assurance that He is going to provide for us, but we also have testimony of God’s past performance in providing for His people. Beloved, this is fertile deep-thinking territory for us all! The Scriptures repeatedly point to Him as a faithful Source:

• He made a way for His people to cross the Red Sea and be delivered from their enemies.
• He provided manna for the people to eat in the wilderness.
• He caused water to gush forth from a rock to quench His people’s thirst.
• He gave His commandments to the people when they were without moral fiber.
• He healed His people when they were struck by poisonous snakes.

Ponder and meditate on these events carefully; think deeply and consider what God’s record shows! Give yourself permission to focus on this idea…allow yourself to understand this in a more meaningful capacity. His provisions for His people were complete, in every area of their lives. We need to keep this uppermost in our contemplations. Life is filled with all types of anxieties, imperfections, frustrations, and disappointments but let us choose to believe God and trust Him to be our absolute Source, Supply, and Satisfier! This is just one key to being more optimistic and hopeful during the substantial financial setbacks we are experiencing. We must persevere by trusting our Lord to satisfy our needs still.  

The Fruit of God's Goodness

 

The Fruit of God's Goodness

Psalm 34:8, O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.

When the sweet Psalmist of Israel says, “Taste and see that the Lord is good,” David is not speaking of putting God through our examination merely or 'testing God. ' But he is talking about “relishing God's goodness.” To perceive how good He really is by experiencing that goodness firsthand. This incredible invitation to engage with God in a personal and experiential manner, is like trying a new dish or experiencing a new location – you don't know how good it is until you try it. 

The reverse of experiencing God’s goodness is to be anxious or prone to worry.  Worrying is to give way to anxiety, distress, disturbance, or unease, allowing one's mind to dwell on difficulty or troubles. It is a state of uncertainty over actual or potential problems. Vance Havner said, “Worry, like a rocking chair, will give you something to do, but it won’t get you anywhere.” Another person said, “Worry is the advance interest you pay on troubles that seldom come.” Clearly, we must prioritize experiencing God through deliberately trusting Him.

Experiencing God Personally:

"Taste and see that the Lord is good" encourages believers to personally experience God's goodness to actively seek and experience God's presence and blessings through faith and trust, rather than simply accepting claims about His goodness. 

We may reason, argue, resort to logic and marshal Christian evidences, but when all is said and done, a man must taste and see for himself.^[1]

The thought emphasizes God's goodness, His inherent kindness, mercy, and graciousness, as something to be discovered and enjoyed, not merely believing someone else’s testimony. We will know happiness and blessings when we do. 

Psalm 34:8, O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him

The verse also suggests that God's goodness is not just a nonconcrete notion, but something that can be experienced through faith and trust. It's about actively seeking God's presence and guidance in your life and recognizing His blessings. It's more than intellectual understanding, but an active, personal encounter with God's grace and mercy. Again, emphasizing the exquisiteness of His nature and the abundance of His provision. 

Trusting God is also Highlighted:

Additionally, God says, "blessed is the man that trusteth in him," highlighting the connection between experiencing God's goodness and trusting Him. When you trust God, you open yourself up to experiencing His goodness in very tangible ways. 

Note the phrase, "blessed is the man that trusteth in him". This pinpoints how connection with God implies trust, reliance, and finding protection in His care. As a blessed outcome we are happier and sense divine advantages and compensations. 

In military imagery David envisioned divine protection (cf. Gen. 32:2; 2 Kings 6:16).^[2]

It is the call to the life of faith. The saints are invited to walk by faith and not by sight, and to experience God’s marvelous, miraculous, and abundant provision. ^[3]

David's Testimony is Our Invitation:

David had experienced both serious adversity and God's fantastic rescues. He knew personally how good God can be to those who trust Him. He invites you and me to experience God's goodness in the same ways he had. We must actively engage our faith seeking God's inherent goodness and global generosity to find His protection, holy deliverance, promising blessings, and God-given happiness as a result. Instead of worrying, God prescribes,

Matthew 6:33, which says, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

This concern with God…knowing and experiencing God should mark us as genuine disciples of our Lord Jesus. Blessings belong to God’s people who trust Him instead of worrying.

Therefore an individual need not be anxious about his existence (Matt. 6:31), for by worrying he can never add any amount of time, not even a single hour, to his life. Rather than being like the pagans who are concerned about physical needs, the Lord’s disciples should be concerned about the things of God, His kingdom and His righteousness. Then all these needs will be supplied in God’s timing. This is the life of daily faith. It does no good to worry^[4]

Conclusion:

The Bible conveys how God is inherently good in and of Himself, His goodness is accessible to those who trust Him, and His goodness extends to all facets His creation. 

We too can experience God's goodness by recognizing His blessings, both big and small, in daily life. This can include tangible things like provision, protection, and love, as well as intangible things like peace, joy, and hope. 

Believing in the goodness of the Lord often leads to expressions of gratitude, praise, and a desire to reflect His goodness in our own lives. This may involve our acts of kindness, compassion, and service to our fellowman also. Certainly, we will be more convinced than ever of the goodness of God.

---

^[1] William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 598.

^[2] Allen P. Ross, “Psalms,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 819.

^[3] William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 598.

^[4] Louis A. Barbieri Jr., “Matthew,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 33.

Choose to Be a Blessing

1 Peter 3:13-22 

SUBJECT: The Glory Inherent in Christian Suffering

THEME: Christ will turn our suffering and unfairness of today into triumph and glory for eternity because we are called to bless others.

RELEVANCE: being treated unfairly can leave us hurt, confused, disconcerted, and angry. The desire to get back at them…to make them feel the pains we have felt, is incredibly strong! These very real troubled heart feelings…. God addresses to guide our actions.

INTRODUCTION: No doubt Peter is addressing Believers who have already experience some lose because of their faith in Christ. These believers are not suffering because of some mental, emotional, or relational abnormality. They are being persecuted for their faith in Jesus Christ, they are disadvantaged by society because they confess that Jesus Christ is the Lord and not some self-absorbed political leader. This is why they are suffering… (1Pet. 1:10-2:25). There is room to apply this counsel to our own sufferings rooted in a bold testimony for the Lord Jesus Christ in our own time. Many countrymen may not agree…unfortunately many ‘Christians’ will reject this notion in favor of a softer and more traditional view. None of this changes what God vitally said to hurting Believers.

MESSAGE:

BELIEVER’S SUFFERINGS FOR CHRIST’S SAKE WILL RESULT IN REWARDS; OUR SPIRTUAL TRIBULATIONS WILL BECOME TRIUMPHS IN GOD! 1 Peter 3:13-22

  A.  THE SUFFERING BELIEVER’S IS CHARGED TO DEFEND OUR FAITH IN CHRIST, 1 Pet. 3:13-15

           1. We Are Charged to Walk in Faith and Not Fear   vs 13-14

                  (a) It is unlikely that a Christian will suffer for doing good.  The government and the boss will very likely appreciate it. Husbands and fellow believers will appreciate it too.    Vs 13

                  (b) There is the possibility of suffering for righteousness’ sake, this is a blessed condition from God’s perspective.   Vs 14  

Matt 5:11-12, Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12,  Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

                  (c) What can I expect as the result of my suffering? 

                              * God could overcome the suffering for His own glory. (Example in the Book of Esther--God delivered the suffering Jews from the wicked Haman and the Jewish Holiday Purim celebrates the great deliverance of God and thus He is glorified).

                              * God could use the suffering to bring blessing to others. (Example of using your testimony of a trial to help someone else through a difficult time).

                              * God could bless the one who suffers for His name’s sake. (Example of mature saints who have suffered much and they have a real deep knowledge of God’s goodness and Faithfulness). Hudson Taylor the great missionary was a powerful Christian who suffered much, and God rewarded him over and over with the blessing of a deepening and healthy fellowship with his Savior.                            

           2. We Are Charged to Defend the Faith    Vs 15

                    (a) We are to Set the Lord Apart in our Hearts. 

This should be to such an extent that He has our entire life.  There is no room for your will anymore, only the will of God.  There is no room anymore in your life for your hang ups, only the plan of God for your life.  All that we do and say should be for his glory and pleasure.

The Lordship of Christ should dominate every area of our lives---our possessions, our occupation, our library, our marriage, our spare time---nothing can be excluded.

                     (b) We are to Readily Defend and Share our Faith and Hope in Jesus Christ.

Vs 15, ‘Answer’ here means a defense for one’s belief. Primarily this deals with the saint under heavy persecution.  They should not cower but boldly defend the faith with reverence to God and respect to one’s persecutors.

Also, we from day to day will have opportunity to witness of God’s goodness in our lives and we are to do it with gentleness ‘meekness’ and with reverence ‘fear”.  There should be no trace of harshness, bitterness or flippancy when we speak of our Lord and Savior.

  B.  THE SUFFERING BELIEVER IS CONSCIENCE OF GOD’S WILL IN THE PURSUIT OF DOING WELL, 1 PET. 3:16-17

           1.  Let Us Maintain a Good Conscience   vs 16

‘Conscience’ means an awareness of God’s presence and will.  When we conduct ourselves in accordance with His will and walk in light of His presence, we maintain a ‘good conscience’. It is the Lord God that we want to please and represent more than any thing else. The question is are our values cultural or eternal?

           2.  Let Our Suffering Be Because of Well Doing   vs 17

Christians who suffer unjustly and keep a clear conscience put to shame those who slander their good behavior in Christ. Once again Peter encouraged his readers with the fact that good behavior is their best defense against unjust punishment and persecution.

3:17. However, Peter pointed out that it may be God’s will (thelēma; cf. 2:15; 4:2, 19) for them to suffer for doing good (cf. 1:6; 2:15; 4:16, 19). This, as he told them earlier, “is commendable before God” (2:20) and so is better than deserved suffering for doing evil (cf. 2:14). First Peter 3:17 is an effective summary of the content of 2:15, 19–20.^[a]

If a Christian must suffer, which might sometimes be God’s will for him, it should be for doing good. But he should not bring suffering on himself for his own misdeeds; there is no virtue in that.^[b]

  C.   THE SUFFERING BELIEVER IS CALLED TO FOLLOW THE HOPE FILLED EXAMPLE OF CHRIST’S TRIUMPH, 1 Pet. 3:18-22

           1.  We Are Called to Follow Christ’s Example, vs 18   

(He suffered unjustly to, but it was for our benefit) “That He might bring use to God”

                *Christ suffered unjustly—we will suffer unjustly too for righteousness sake.

                *Christ suffered for our benefit—"to bring us to God”—we must suffer for others benefit.  This is part of what being a Missionary is all about.  This is part of what serving in a church is all about.  You may have to miss out on a Sunday School class or a Message to serve others. This is what serving in the nursery is all about. But we still do it to follow our Savior’s example and to bring others closer to the Lord.

                *Christ suffered even unto death—We will need to die to self to follow Christ. We must take up our cross daily and follow Him. Some may even sacrifice themselves to protect other Believers.

                *Christ was raised from the dead by the power of the Spirit-- “quickened by the Spirit”.  We today as believers are to walk in the power of a new life and we in this new life are called to bring others to Christ, following our Lord’s example. Just as the Spirit raised Christ, He will empower us to fulfil the will of God.  Let God use our sufferings to bring others to God!

           2. We Are Called to Bare Witness Through Our Sufferings, vs 19-20   

(Christ never forsook His witness and no matter how low we get; we must never forsake our Testimony and Witness)

       * ‘PREACHED UNTO THE SPIRITS IN PRISON’   vs 19

               (a)  The act of Christ between His death and resurrection when He descended into Hell and proclaimed His victory at Calvary to the demonic hordes held in that part of Hell. Jesus made a proclamation of His victory over death to the rebellious angels who had been placed in prison. His proclamation was also a form of judgment on them because of their sin and rebellion. This idea also seems to be supported by <2 Peter 2:4> and <Jude 6>.  (See also Eph.4:8-10)

              (b) Vs 20, Christ also Proclaimed His Victory to the Saints of God from all the Ages and this act vindicated their faith before the unbelievers of all ages. Especially the unbelieving Souls of Noah’s day.   Just as God Vindicated the faith of Noah and His family by saving them through the flood in the safety of the Ark; He will also Vindicate the Faith of the saint who suffers for righteousness sake in our time. Just as Noah and His family experienced deliverance from judgement, and deliverance into a new day and new hope, we will also experience safety from divine judgement and deliverance into a new and glorious day free of suffering, persecution, pain, and rejection.  Delivered into the very presence of God by the Ark of Jesus Christ accompany by everlasting triumph.

THE TRUTH IS NO MATTER HOW MUCH WE ARE MOCKED AND PERSECUTED IN THIS LIFE, NO MATTER HOW STUPID WE MAY LOOK IN THE EYES OF PEOPLE FOR FOLLOWING OUR LORD’S INSTRUCTIONS….  WE WILL BE COMPLETELY VINDICATED FOR OUR FAITH AND OBEDIENCE BEFORE THE FALLEN ANGELS AND BEFORE THE LOST OF ALL GENERATIONS. OUR COMMITMENT AND FAITHFULLNESS WILL PLACE US IN THE VERY PRESENCE OF GOD RADIATING WITH THE GLORY OF CHRIST JESUS! OUR SUFFERING FOR CHRIST’S SAKE IS NOT IN VAIN, IT WILL CLIMAX IN SPLENDID GLORY! THIS IS THE SUM OF SUFFERING FOR CHRIST’S SAKE!

APPLICATION: Child of God, when you are most angry…when you know the situation is not fair…when people treat you wrong for doing right…when you feel justified and encouraged to get even…think instead about the eternal, the final triumph, standing vindicated and blameless in the very presence of Almighty God. Make the conscience choice to take it, accept the unfairness from people, focus on their needs and not necessarily what they say…persist and insist on doing good regardless. Tell God honestly what you are feeling…that is enough for now…He is enough even when life hurts…. Continue to be a witness.

               3.  We Are Called to Completely Identify with Christ’s Triumph, vs 21-22 (Those who suffer with Christ will Reign with Christ)

                    (a) Jesus Christ was Raised to a Justified Life. We Identify (baptism) with this justification when we trusted Him as Savior.  His life counts for our life. His death count for our death. His resurrection counts for our resurrection. We receive credit for having paid our debt to sin and are no longer obligated to sin.  Christ suffering for our sin was a BAPTISM.

Luke 12:50, But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished!

Mark 10:38, But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?

Rom 6:3-4, Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4, Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

                    (b) Vs 21, Jesus Christ fulfilled a purpose in His Sufferings, and we must Identify with this Purpose in our sufferings, which is the answer of a good Conscience towards God.  Conscience is the awareness of God’s will and Presence.  God wants us to submit ourselves in suffering and be a good witness. We understand now what His will is for suffering saints, and we must act accordingly to maintain a good conscience before God.

                     (c) Vs 22, Jesus Christ suffered unfairly, but now He is exalted and glorified. Suffering always leads to Glory. If we suffer with Him or if we more completely Identify (Baptism) with Him, we will be glorified together with Him.  We will reign with him in Victory—Our Tribulation, Suffering and Submission will turn to Triumph, Honor, Dominion and Power!

Rom 8:17-18, And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. 18, For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

CONCLUSION: 

News like this will help us smile through the tears, confusion, and persecutions when life hurts the most! The temptation to settle the score or get even is tremendous, multifaceted, unrelenting, and rooted in a people or cultural sense of identity. Be really careful with ‘door mat’ or ‘good guy’ analogies they are more cultural and are built on humanistic ideas of our value and worth. Our goal is to be of value to God’s character as His witnesses, and to advance His kingdom above all else which has eternal significance. It helps when you are bent on living for eternal importance rather then cultural, political, or religious ideas.

There is no doubt, there will come a day when the Sum of Our Suffering will equal Glory!  Life may be unfair for the moment, and we may have to endure difficulties and hardships for some time. But great will be the reward of the saint who stays true to the Lord. Beloved, this is far more then an oversimplification. I get it…life is complex and messy, but these principles are still applicable to us today.

We must, therefore, conduct ourselves as brothers with compassion and sensitivity one towards others. 

We must seek peace and prayerfulness with each other and all men as much as possible; refusing to resort to an attitude of retaliation and getting even. 

Most of all, we need to look to the example of our Lord Jesus and follow closely in His steps for they lead to glory with Him in the presence of God. Beloved, we are called to be a blessing and not a curse! May we treat others like God treats everyone, including us.

Continue to follow God’s instructions as a suffering saint, He will one day vindicate our faith before this wicked generation just as He did with Noah in his day. You do not need to worry about doing this for yourself at this time in this generation.

When dreams seem to fade in this life, we will still have the hope of the next life with Christ! Therefore, it is glory all the way!

---

^[a] Roger M. Raymer, “1 Peter,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 850.

^[b] William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 2271. 

Share a Little Hope Today

1THESS. 4:18

Subject: The Rapture

Theme: Our Rapture Hope gives encouragement and strength when facing challenges, and the coming of our Lord Jesus fills each day with strengthening  anticipations.  

Introduction:

If you asked the average well-informed person, “What is hope?” They would basically say, “Hope is an optimistic state of mind that is based on an expectation of positive outcomes with respect to events and circumstances in one's life or the world at large.” (Wikipedia) Natural “hope” is typically used to indicate a wish: its potency rests in the strength of the person’s desire. Also, it is largely dependent upon positive external developments or conditions. This is the extent of natural hope. In contrast, it is in the Bible that spiritual Hope is presented as the confident expectation of what God has promised and its strength is in the well-documented faithfulness of Almighty God.

“Hope” is commonly nothing more than wishful thinking or earnest desires. Again the Word of God; however, portrays the confident expectation of what God has promised. The Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary says,

Hope: Confident expectancy. In the Bible, the word hope stands for both the act of hoping (Rom 4:18; 1 Cor 9:10) and the thing hoped for (Col 1:5; 1 Peter 1:3). Hope does not arise from the individual's desires or wishes but from God, who is Himself the believer's hope: "My hope is in Thee" (Ps 39:7). Genuine hope is not wishful thinking, but a firm assurance about things that are unseen and still in the future (Rom 8:24-25; Heb 11:1,7).

“Hope” then is a fascinating concept found throughout the Scriptures and certainly in this passage (1Thess. 4:13-18). Biblical hope points to a sure expectation of good and positive developments; it is far more than merely desiring or wanting something favorable to happen. God primarily uses the term to give promises and discuss events that will occur...it’s just a matter of when and not if. God gives His people hope; He is the Source of all meaningful hope in this life and the next! With regards to our salvation, believers have a joyful and confident anticipation of full eternal salvation—forever with the Lord. Repeatedly, in our New Testament, hope is identified with the consummation of our redemption promises at the coming of the Lord Jesus in the Rapture. Beloved, we have glorious anticipations because of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Hope is a much-needed ingredient in our modern culture. Despair is the sense of no hope or of not having any hope left. Despair means to lose hope and often refers to the complete loss or absence of hope. Desperation, despondency, and hopelessness are painfully very real, and even people of great wealth, fame, and celebrity have fallen prey to its incredible power. Actor and comedian Robin Williams, actress and model Marilyn Monroe, famous novelist Ernest Hemingway, Olympic medalist skier Jaret “Speedy” Peterson, and scores of other celebrities took their own lives while in the grips of despair and depression. Suicide is the fruits of despair and persists as an alarming problem in the USA and the world,

There is 1 suicide for every 25 attempted suicides. Males make up 79% of all suicides, while women are more prone to having suicidal thoughts. 1 in 65,000 children ages 10 to 14 dies by suicide each year. There are 2 times as many deaths due to suicide than HIV/AIDS. Over 38,000 Americans die by suicide every year. In the U.S., suicide rates are highest during the spring. Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for 15 to 24-year-olds and 2nd for 24 to 35-year-olds. On average, 1 person dies by suicide every 16.2 minutes. (DoSomething.org)

Atheism and other systems of non-belief not only deprive its adherents of viable faith-answers but leave them with zero hope. This is difficult because hope is what helps people continue without giving up or quitting on life. Hope moves us to dream big and pursue our greatest aspirations. Hope enable us to complete the degree programs, launch meaningful careers, and envision a better future. Hope gives us reason to live...to continue to live--suicide ceases to be an option where hope thrives. Too many young people take their lives essentially because they have no sense of hope. With that being the case, how can we share a little hope today?

Lesson:

The Obligations to Share Our Hope (Vs 18)

1Thes 4:18, Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

The word "wherefore" points us back to the Rapture hope Paul has just disclosed. This hope comforts us in death and affords us a wonderful anticipation every day of life. Knowing this incredible truth is great, but it is better to share it with others.

The word “comfort” means to console, encourage, and strengthen by consolation or instructions. It is similar to the Holy Spirit who comes along side His people as the Great Comforter. God is telling us to become ‘comforters,’ Purveyors of Hope, to each other with our Rapture Hope!! Our obligation is to spread, tell, and transmit this hope to others, especially the hopeless. Beloved, we are to seize occasions to spread the hope of Jesus Christ and His coming for His people in the Rapture. So, when should we be busy with this ministry of comfort and encouragement?

IN TIMES OF SORROW, RECALL YOUR COMFORTING HOPE (Jn. 14:1-6)

We are not to let our hearts be troubled; instead we are to believe God and Christ Jesus! Our Lord said He would come for us and He will in due time. The Rapture is the reason we do not sorrow in a hopeless and despairing fashion (1Thess. 4:13). While it is perfectly normal to grieve over deceased love ones, we have no reason to hopelessly despair. God and Christ are our HOPE! We have the wonderful hope of seeing our family members and fellow church family again. God gave us such hope in the promise of the Rapture. We must take responsibility to hope in the Lord and draw encouragement from truths like these biblical promises. 

                      1.  Learn to Encourage Yourself with This Hope

Remember David in Ziklag—1Sam. 30:1-10, (v. 6) “...but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.” As much as possible, cause your mind to concentrate and meditate on Rapture passages along with other hope-filled promises of God. Use these to lift your own spirits...to think on the truth, which frees us from despair. Concentrate on passages of assurance and faith to ally your hope in the Lord.

                     2. Once again consider what the Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary says about the sources of hope,

Christian hope comes from God (Rom 15:13) and especially His calling (Eph 1:18; 4:4), His grace (2 Thess 2:16), His Word (Rom 15:4) and His gospel (Col 1:23). Hope is directed toward God (Acts 24:15; 1 Peter 1:21) and Christ (1 Thess 1:3; 1 Tim 1:1). Its appropriate objects are eternal life (Titus 1:2; 3:7), salvation (1 Thess 5:8), righteousness (Gal 5:5), the glory of God (Rom 5:2; Col 1:27), the appearing of Christ (Titus 2:13) and the resurrection from the dead (Acts 23:6; 26:6-7).

                     3. Passages like Romans 15:13-14 are a tremendous help stating,

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another. (KJV)

Our God is the author and designer of hope, and through our faith He can cause hope to overflow in our experiences through the grand workings of the Spirit of God! Such hope will issue out in joy and peace. That is a joyous anticipation stirred by hope and a tranquil assurance also afford by this potent hope from God. Beloved, there is tremendous delight and grace ushered into our lives through confidence in the God of hope!

                      4. Also consider 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17, where Paul says,

Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work. (KJV)

God graciously gives everlasting consolation and good hope to His trusting and abiding people. Look to Him!

                      5. This glorious hope revives our courage for the way,

When each in expectation lives and longs to see the day

When from sorrow, toil, pain and sin, we shall be free,

And perfect love and joy shall reign throughout all eternity.—John Fawcett

IN TIMES OF STRUGGLE, GIVE OTHERS THIS COMFORTING HOPE

In all the challenges of life become God’s instrument of encouragement in light of our Lord’s return for us.

                      1.  Determine to Encourage Others with This Hope in Times of Suffering, Great Trials, and Persecution. We have Hope beyond this life, which cannot be taken away; therefore, we can boldly stand for our Lord and His truth.  (Paul & Timothy in 2Tim. 4:1-8)

                      2.  Determine to Share This Hope with the Lost of Your Family & Community Before it is Eternally to Late for Them! People desperately need the Lord Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins and a relationship with the Father. Point them to the Source of Hope! 

Sweet By-And-By

The gifted Christian musician Joseph T. Webster was often tormented by deep feelings of depression. On one occasion, when he was in a melancholy mood, he received a visit from his close acquaintance Fillmore Bennett.

Knowing that one way to keep Webster from brooding over his problems was to interest him in writing a hymn tune, Bennett decided he’d try to pen some lyrics that would direct his friend’s thoughts heavenward. The despondent man himself unwittingly supplied the theme, for when he was asked, “What’s the matter now?” he replied, “Oh, it will be all right by and by!” “That’s true,” exclaimed Bennett, “trials do generate great glory for us in the sweet by-and-by!”

Inspired by this thought, he immediately sat down and wrote several poetic verses on the subject. When his friend read them, a new look of hope came into his eyes, and his whole attitude changed. After jotting down some musical notes, Webster took up his violin and played the melody he had composed to fit the words. Within half an hour the enduring hymn “In the Sweet By-and-By” was born. –Tan, Paul Lee: Encyclopedia of 7700 Illustrations

Conclusion:

Our Rapture Hope thrills, cheers, and comforts us through life and death. It brings encouragement and strength in the face of death and fills our lives with the enduring prospect of our coming Lord Jesus. Give God praise for the certainty about your eternal destiny that you as a child of God enjoy. Live this day in that confidence. Share this Rapture Hope with others, that no one you love will be left behind!

Unsinkable Ship

At the time of the sinking of the Titanic, one of our great American preachers was in Belfast, Ireland. The Titanic had been built in Belfast, and there was a great local pride over the mighty ship. She had been heralded far and wide as “the unsinkable ship.” Sixteen members of the church in Belfast, all skilled mechanics, went down with her. The mayor said that Belfast had never been in such grief as that which came over this terrible tragedy. When the news finally was verified that the gallant ship was certainly lost, so deep was the grief that it is said strong men met upon the streets, grasped each other’s hands, burst into tears, and parted without a word.

The visiting American preached the Sunday after the tragedy in the church to which the sixteen members who had been lost belonged. Not only was the building packed with peoples but on the platform were lords, bishops, and ministers of all denominations. In the audience, many newly-made widows were sitting and orphans were sobbing on every side. The great preacher took as his subject “The Unsinkable Ship.” But he did not apply that term to the Titanic which on her first voyage had gone out into the Atlantic and crashed into an iceberg, carrying her precious cargo of human lives down to watery death.

No, the preacher’s message was about that other “unsinkable ship”—the frail boat on the sea of Galilee, unsinkable because the Master of land and sea was asleep on a pillow in the afterpart of the vessel. Thank God He still lives and rides the billows and controls the storms, and when the children of men take their only true Pilot back on board, we will ride out the present storms and He will bring the vessel through to the fair harbor of our hopes. —American Fundamentalist

I challenge you likewise to be “unsinkable.” Refuse to drown in the sorrows and hard times life will hit you with. No matter how high the waves of despair may tower over you...and how hard and often they crash on the shore of your conscience, you are not defenseless. Use the hope of Christ’s coming to keep you afloat when your heart is breaking, and the pain seems too much to bare. Use God's hope like a life preserver to rescue those who are sinking in discouragement, depression, frustration, pain and sorrow. Refuse to sink under the waves of sorrows and billows of desperation; be unsinkable! Use this Hope in Christ to lift you until Christ comes and catches us away!

In every life there will be some “dark valleys.” Difficult days cannot be avoided. In fact, the lives of some believers seem to be filled with affliction and suffering. But for the child of God, there is glorious relief just ahead … the return of Christ and the promise of a land of endless delight. The prospect of Gods’ tomorrow also means a time of joyous reunion with loved ones who have preceded us. Truly “there’ll be songs of greeting when Jesus comes…”—Osbeck, Kenneth W.: Amazing Grace

Today...this day...share a little hope. First encourage yourself in the Lord, and then carry a little hope everywhere you go. You will find that you will always have a robust ministry as you whisper comfort to discouraged hearts with hope in Jesus. Be God's ambassador of HOPE today!