I am Yours…Lord

Genesis 12:4-9

SUBJECT: ABRAHAM/ FIRST STEPS OF DEVOTION

THEME: God will greatly use us to touch the world as we respond to Him in faith. Truly, God deserves a people who completely embrace His excellent plans. We must; therefore, dedicate ourselves to His wonderful will.

INTRODUCTION:

Abraham’s arrival in Canaan was not a complete fulfillment of God’s promises immediately. God wanted to teach him patience, submission, and build his faith. Such experiences are not unique to Abraham; they are common to all who seek to follow God’s will. The promises often seem long delayed, and we must simply continue following day by day, trusting God and knowing that His timing is always right. In the meantime, until the opening of a larger door and the accomplishment of His specific and ultimate will in our lives, there are daily opportunities for service and witness where we are, and in whatever circumstances we may find ourselves. There is still a testing time though, even in the will of God, when God must teach us patience and submission. Such training often is long and slow, but worth it. Dr. Luke says in chapter 16 and verse 10, “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.”

Out of a sinful and pagan world, God calls Abraham to leave everything and everyone he knows and travel to a land he has never seen. Abraham boldly steps out in faith, yet he hesitates and delays at times. It was only when Abraham fully yielded to God’s plan for his life, that God began to fulfill His plans in and through his life. Like Abraham, every one of us faces trials, frustrations and failures, but if we would be inspired to believe God as he did, we too could achieve great spiritual goals.

Today we see Abraham faithfully living in God’s will and walking according to God’s plan for his life. He is in Canaan enjoying the blessings of God and being a witness to the Canaanite in the Land. The ONLY way Abraham could arrive in Canaan and walk with God by faith is by first dedicating himself to God. It was not by accident nor by the process of time, but by a deliberate act of committing himself to live according to God’s plan.

MESSAGE:

ABRAHAM JOURNEYS ON TO CANAAN: DISCOVER THE DRIVE TO COMPLETE CONSECRATION

Gen 12:4-5, So Abram departed, as the LORD had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran. 5, And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came.

Abraham is stepping out with confidence in God following His great plan for his life. He makes his way some 400 miles to Canaan across the hot desert to arrive in the Promised Land. This decision reveals great focus, determination, and dedication to the Lord!

THE MEANING OF CONSECRATION

             1.  CONSECRATION:  The act of setting apart, or dedicating, something or someone for God's use; the act of dedicating oneself to the worship and service of God. By leaving Haran, Abraham was dedicating himself to God’s plan which could only be fulfilled in Canaan.

As an Evangelist, I am set apart for the ministry of Preaching, Teaching, Soul Winning, Discipleship etc.  Another example would be our Church’s Piano is consecrated to the Worship and Service of God exclusively; we do not rent it out to rock groups nor do we use it for any other purpose. Our church Buildings are dedicated to the Lord’s service and worship, this is why we don’t use it for a dance hall or sex trafficking. These have been devoted to the Lord's purposes, plans, and pleasure.

            2.  In the Old Testament, the Temple and its Trappings were the Most Important Objects Consecrated to God (2 Chr. 7:5-9; Ezra 6:16-17); and Aaron and his sons were consecrated to the priesthood (Exodus 29; Leviticus 8). But even such items as the spoils of battle (Josh. 6:19; Mic. 4:13) and cattle could be consecrated (Lev. 27:28). Before the beginning of the priesthood in Israel's history, the first-born of men and beasts alike were consecrated (Ex. 13:2). But after the priesthood began, the tribe of Levi served as a substitute in this consecration (Num. 3:12).

           

Medical doctors must spend years in college preparing to practice medicine, exploring science, learning procedures, and studying the human body. All of their energies, nearly every waking hour is given to preparing for that profession. He or she could never be a good doctor except they dedicate them self to that profession. The same is true for a committed Christian. We will live by faith in the most serious sense and live deeply Christian as people dedicated to God. Abraham dedicates himself to God’s plans; he refuses to remain in Haran any longer. To do so places him out of the will of God wasting his potential and life.

God is still looking for such dedicated Christians through whom He can touch the world! Our heavenly Father desires dependence, trust, and faith in Him—not faith in our ability to please Him. You see, God’s plan from the very beginning has been to make Himself known to all people. Is it you He is challenging to surrender to a devoted life of service? Do you know God’s great plan for your life? It is the same for every Christian; He wants us to dedicate ourselves to Him and His great plan for us (Eph. 2:10).

My mind returns to one evening in October 1991, where I struggled for a period at the altar during the invitation in Grace Independent Baptist Church. That tour in Germany was marked by many punctuated spirituals decision that literally shaped our lives in ways we never dreamed. This was my time and place to dedicate my entire life to God. All of my weaknesses and strengths...all of my inadequacies and needs...all of my failures and victories...all of my dreams and potential were given over to my great God. I took my hands off my life deciding to go all the way with God in His plan for me. I did not fully understand all the ramifications of that single decision at the time, but I have no regrets to date! 

Many of the decisions in my Christian growth and progress were made automatically because I had made that one decision to live for God's glory. When I began to understand the importance of learning God’s Word in Sunday School, I devoted time to faithfully study God’s Word. Through preaching and teaching we learned about the incredible importance of sharing our Faith with the lost; since I had dedicated my life, I became far more serious and faithful to this privilege. Then I heard about tithing through my local church, so I stopped giving to TV Evangelists and began giving the tenth to my home church. My wife and I embraced the all-important world-wide Mission program, so we started supporting missions. After all we had dedicated our lives to Almighty God. I discovered through preaching and Bible study the importance of holiness and a separated lifestyle. As I yield to the Lord, He cleaned up my language, ambitions, goals, dreams, and personal appearance. The Lord also cleansed my life of poor habits, changed my haunts, and even my closest friends. On the list goes concerning my personal experience of consecrating my life to the Lord’s worship and service.  It did not happen automatically nor over night, but God showed me first the need to dedicate my entire life to Him and His service! Everything else began to make sense concerning Christian living! My life became far more simple with one primary motivation--honoring my Lord.

THE MOTIVATION FOR CONSECRATION

When we talk about consecration and devotion to the Lord, we soon find ourselves in need of encouragements to take that step.  After all it sounds very committed, and some are not sure they want any more commitments. Why bother running from God when we really can't do that? Why frustrate ourselves with fighting God when we understand we will never ever ever win? What is the point of taking charge of our own lives when they really do not belong to us anymore? 

Also remember Abraham had a death in his life, Terah had died. This was the one obstacle or hindrance that God removed from Abraham’s life allowing him to progress in God’s plan. Likewise, there must be a death in each of our experiences.... The application for us is to die to SELF AND OUR OWN PLANS FOR OUR LIVES.

            1.  What Would Drive Abraham to Go Through So Much Trouble to Obey God?

Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran... and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came (Gen. 12, 4, 5).

How would you like to make a major move at age 75? Traveling was not especially brief nor even remotely convenient for anyone in those days. But, watch Abraham insist on continuing with the Lord anew!

                 a.  Abraham Was Leaving the Security of Haran to Cross a Burning Desert to Go to a Strange Land called Canaan. The comforts and conveniences of city life no doubt were powerful temptations to stay there and ignore God’s plan for him. I am certain he was no different than we are. If there is discomfort, difficulty, discouragements, possible disaster and doubt involved then we usually shy away from it. If we feel like we must give up something to do it then we really rather not. If it will cause any kind of discomfort at all, then in many cases we would forget it all together. We value convenience too much and obedience too little.

                 b.  Abraham No Doubt Was Ridiculed by the Friends He Had Made in Haran When He Decided to Leave. Remember he was in Haran for about 15 years. Can’t you hear what they may have said to God’s servant, “You’re crazy, Abraham!” “You, your wife, and your servants will die out there in that desert wasteland!” “Abraham, you must give up on this silly dream you had from some strange God. Don’t waste your life, stay here in Haran!”

I really don’t know but maybe even Sarah asked him a time or two if he was sure he knew what he was doing.  “Are you sure you understood God correctly, it was 15 years ago when He appeared to you…. Why are you bringing this up again anyway? What do you have to prove?”

                   c.  No Doubt, after All this, Abraham Should Be Ready to Give up on this Idea and Rationalize His Partial Obedience to Remain in Haran.  But he didn’t!  He chose the life of Faith and Consecration anyway!  He committed himself to see God’s plan through! Note what the New Testament says:

Heb 11:10, For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

Heb 11:13-16, These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 14, For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. 15, And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. 16, But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

Yes, Abraham must begin his journey to another land, but what drove him to do it? Yes, God had promised to guide and protect him (Gen. 12:2-3), and to lead him to another land. The promise of God’s guidance, leadership, blessings, and protection should be enough to encourage any of us to journey on with God. Remember Hebrews 11 tells us he went out looking for a material city, but ultimately God had some greater spiritual realities in mind for Abraham. God over the course of time, lifted his servant's eyes heavenward and his hope and faith led him to Heaven to dwell with Jehovah God. His pilgrimage began where ours begins, with a promise from God, a vision of Heaven, another country, a better country, a home forever blessed as the dwelling place of God. You see, God has spoken in His Word, we have believed Him, and now our Faith draws us to know Him even now. As a result, life not only begins but flourishes as we journey through this world by faith! Abraham was a man driven by a wonderful faith!

           2.  What Should Motivate Us to Consecrate Ourselves to God?

Rom 12:1-2, I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice [consecration], holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.  And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

As with Abraham, real faith…dynamic faith lays at the foundation of our motivations…our consecration. Remember, faith is always based on something God said, prescribed, commanded or promised. Romans 12, verses 1 and 2 are an excellent point of meditation to stir our hearts of devotion to our awesome God. Consider the following observations:

                a.  The Lordship of Christ—He is our Master, Owner, Redeemer, and Lord

                b.  The mercies of God—the salvation we have in Christ

                c.  The desire to please Our Lord

                d.  The believer’s reasonable service—it is reasonable to live devoted to my Lord

                e.  The goal of proving the Will of God

                f.  To glorify God—my consecration testifies to God’s grace and blessings on my life

                g.  My love and appreciation for God’s multiplied goodness (Jn. 14:15, If ye love me, keep my commandments)

                h.  The promises of God—the life of Faith (our eternal home in Heaven—Jn. 14: 1-6)

                i.  A healthy desire to finish God’s plan for our lives

Acts 20:24, But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

“TAKE ALL THE KEYS, LORD”

Dr. F. B. Meyer came to a critical, transitional time in his ministry.  He sat dejectedly in his study. “My ministry is unfruitful, and I lack spiritual power,” he said to himself.

Suddenly Christ seem to stand beside him.  “Let me have the keys to your life,” Christ said.  The experience was so realistic that he reached into his pocket and took out a bunch of keys!  “Are all the keys here?”  “Yes, Lord, all except the key to one small room in my life.”  Christ said: “If you cannot trust me in all rooms of your life, I cannot accept any of the keys.”

Dr. Meyer was so overwhelmed with the feeling that Christ was moving out of his life because he was excluding Him from one interest in his life that he cried out, “Come back, Lord, and take the keys to all the rooms of my life!” --W. B. Knight

Certainly, consecration is when we give the Lord every key to every room in our life. We withhold nothing from our Lord. 

                j.  The Lord Jesus calls us to dedicate our lives to Him, He promises to reward those who obey Him!

Matt 16:24-27, Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25, For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. 26, For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 27, For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.

Certainly, God is serious about overcoming our reluctance to trust Him fully! Remember there is no point in running from the Almighty. He desires to take you to new places in Christ Jesus.

“IF GOD COULD”

“If God can hang the stars on high, Can paint the clouds that drift on by; Can send the sun across the sky, What could He do through you?

If He can send a storm through space, and dot with trees the mountain’s face; if He, the sparrow’s way can trace, What could He do through you?

If God can do such little things As count our hairs, or birds that sing, Control the universe that swings, What could He do through you?”—GE Wagoner

YOU WILL KNOW THE ANSWER TO THAT QUESTION ONCE YOU MAKE UP YOUR MIND TO DEVOTE YOUR SELF TO GOD!

CONCLUSION:

God will greatly use Christians to touch our world as we respond to Him in faith while completely embracing His plans. We must; therefore, dedicate ourselves to his wonderful plan for our lives. So, what is keeping you from complete devotion to God? Does holding on to the controls of your life make you feel more secure? Beloved, fighting God is never a winning proposition…. When will you finally say, “I am yours…Lord.”

Why Bother with Worship?

Why Bother with Worship?

Rev. 4:8-11; 5:11-14 & John 4:20-24 & 1Tim. 3:15 

SUBJECT:  THE PURPOSE OF WORSHIP

THEME: Let’s Explore Our God Given Privilege & Responsibility of Public Worship as a NT Church. Be Motivated to Accomplish this Mission when We Come Together.

Relevance: Worship is not always easy. Sometimes we don't feel like worshiping.  But we are not motivated by feelings! The fact remains that God anticipates our worship. If we do not understand how to worship, we may go through the motions, but true worship is not happening. The better we understand worship, the more likely we are to be faithful and find it satisfying.   Because worship is not always easy, it requires a commitment to worship and a willingness to look for the best Independent Baptist Church we can find and try to make it better through our participation.

Introduction:

There is much that takes place today in the name of worship; everything from pious ceremonies and rituals where no one understands what’s being said or either no one except the priests says a word.  Then there are those churches where they spend half the entire morning swinging from the light fixtures. Then there are those who come to church, but they have no idea why.  They sing the songs and never worship during a single verse.  They put on their Sunday morning faces, but they never engage their hearts.  They think that by going through the motions of religious exercise that God will be pleased with their “worship.”  When in essence God is not interested at all in outward expressions that are divorced from the inward convictions of the heart.

Message:

I.    Why should churches worship?  

Churches should worship because we are instructed to worship and because the example of the early churches teaches us to worship.

God certainly is worthy of the deepest devotion and worship of every true NT church. He is looking for true worshipers today and we must realize this is one of our God ordained purposes.

1. THE BIBLE CLEARLY DIRECTS US TO WORSHIP GOD.

Jn 4:21–24, Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. 22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. 23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (See also Ps. 95:1-11; Matt. 28:8-9; Rom. 12:1)

In the NT Jesus was the true Lamb of God (Jn 1:29). Thanks to his death there is no need for further animal sacrifice (Heb 10:11, 12). The OT sacrifices illustrate Jesus’ achievements in bringing peace between God and man (Heb 8:5). Christians today simply meet for public worship in Jesus’ name (Acts 2:46, 47; Heb 10:25).

Ps 29:2, Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.

The psalmist even called on the angels to glorify the Lord. O mighty ones is literally, “sons of the mighty,” that is, God’s angelic beings. The angels were invoked to give God the credit for His glory and power (strength). Such praise should be accompanied by holiness. -Allen P. Ross, “Psalms,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures

2. GOD DESIRES THE HEART FELT WORSHIP OF HIS PEOPLE.

John 4:23, But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. The Father desires worship rooted in spirit and in truth. More will be said about this later.

3. THE JERUSALEM CHURCH’S EXAMPLE INSTRUCTS US IN WORSHIP. (Acts 2:41-47)

Luke gives us glimpses of the first Christians and Churches who were continually and steadfastly devoting themselves to the apostles' preaching, teaching, and to church fellowship, to the breaking of bread, food functions and to prayer meetings (v. 42). Then he mentions that every soul had a holy fear of God in the Church meetings—they felt the presence of God and worshiped in awe of His Majesty (v. 43). 

    1. They Offered Corporate Praise!

Then the same passage informs us that they were “Praising God” (v. 47). These things are at the heart of corporate worship.

    2. They were Persistently Faithful.

The phrase “they continued steadfastly” suggests single-minded faithfulness to church meetings. Apparently when these first Christians got together for worship they were serious about it.

    3. They were Marked by Deep Respect for God.

The phrase “fear came upon every soul” denotes something about their worship.   It does not mean “fear” in the sense of being frightened of someone. Rather, it means “awe” or “reverence” or “deep respect.” These people had been deeply impressed with the presence of God and His work in their midst. It showed.

The Early Church Worshiped the Lord Jesus with Great Joy!

Luke 24:49-53, And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. [50] And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. [51] And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. [52] And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: [53] And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.

Jesus was taken up into heaven (see also Acts 1:9–11) and those early believers worshiped with great joy and kept praising God in the temple. Believers repeatedly praised Jesus with joy and praise.

A genuine worship experience ought to be empowering, encouraging, enlightening, enriching, and enabling. These are just some of the results of their worship; additionally, gladness and joy characterized their worship. These Believers were not prune-faced religious scrooges whose very presence dumped a cloud of gloom on others. Acts 2:46 says that “gladness” characterized their activities, and they favorably impressed all those who saw them. Joy and gladness should mark our very real worship as we reflect on God.

II.    What does it mean to worship?

To worship means to prostrate oneself before God.  We can’t truly worship God until we understand what worship really is.

A.    THE LITERAL MEANING OF WORSHIP.

Several Hebrew and Greek words in the Bible are translated “worship.” But there is only one main Hebrew word for “worship” in the Old Testament and one main Greek word for “worship” in the New Testament. Both mean the same thing.

       1.  What Worship Does Not Mean.

Yet it does not mean “to sing,” or “to gather together in a congregation,” or “going through a ceremony,” or even “to get quiet and solemn.”

     2.  What Worship Does Mean.

The word “worship” means, literally, “to prostrate oneself, to fall down on one's face.”   Worship means to bow down; to honor; to exalt; to pay homage; to reverence (Ge. 24:52; Ex. 4:31; 12:27; 24:1; 33:10; 34:8; Mt. 2:11).

EXAMPLES:  

1.  Abraham’s Servant before Laban and Bethuel: Genesis 24:52, And it came to pass, that, when Abraham's servant heard their words, he worshipped the Lord, bowing himself to the earth.

2.  Israel before Moses and Aaron:  Exodus 4:31 And the people believed: and when they heard that the Lord had visited the children of Israel, and that he had looked upon their affliction, then they bowed their heads and worshipped.

In each instance “worship” involved “prostrating oneself, or falling down on one's face.” I admit I was surprised by that. I don't think the literal meaning conveys the full Bible significance of the word. I don't believe for a second that we must merely come together to literally fall down on our faces, though the word does literally mean that. There must be more…. 

B.    THE COMPLETE MEANING OF WORDSHIP.

Worship can also mean, in a figurative sense, to spiritually prostrate oneself before God. Remember, worship means to bow down; to honor; to exalt; to pay homage; to reverence God (Mt. 2:11; Rev. 5:12-14).

What is intended by a word that means “to prostrate oneself”?

EXAMPLES:

1. The Wise Men before the Lord Jesus:  Matthew 2:11, And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.

2.  The Heavenly 24 Elders before God and the Lamb:  Rev. 5:12-14, Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. [13] And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. [14] And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.

These examples describe actions of complete sacrifice of oneself.

    1.  Figurative Sense.

When we prostrate ourselves figuratively before God, what are we doing? If we don't understand that we may not know what it means to worship.

   2. Figurative Significance.

Let's imagine what would be going on in our hearts and minds if we prostrated ourselves before someone else. If I prostrated myself before someone….

        a.  I would be recognizing his authority.

        b.  I would be affirming his superiority.

        c.  I would be demonstrating my submission.

        d.  I would be placing myself at his mercy and his disposal.

        e.  It would be a massive gesture of total personal offering and sacrifice.

In the land of the free and the home of the brave, in the land where all men are equal, in the land of rugged individualism, we can hardly imagine prostrating ourselves like that. But if we did, we would be saying, by our body language, “You are greater than we are, and we recognize that. You are the “Big Shot” around here and not us!  We humble ourselves before You, place ourselves at Your mercy and disposal, and agree to do anything You tell us to do.” This describes an act of total sacrifice.

       3. Fullest Surrender.

So, when the Bible uses the word “worship” it means more than we may have thought.

John 4:23-24, But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. [24] God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

True worshipers are those who realize that Jesus is the Truth of God (Jn. 3:21; 14:6) and the one and only Way to the Father (Acts 4:12). To worship in truth is to worship God through Jesus. To worship in Spirit is to worship in the new realm which God has revealed to people. The Father is seeking true worshipers because He wants people to live in reality, not in falsehood. Everybody is a worshiper (Rom. 1:25) but because of sin many are blind and constantly put their trust in worthless objects. -Edwin A. Blum, “John,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary

To understand these verses in this light means that, God seeks people who will give themselves to Him totally. He is seeking people who will say, “You are greater than I am, and I recognize that. I humble myself to You, I place myself at Your mercy and disposal, and I agree to do anything You tell me to do.”

Is this what we do on Sunday mornings? Worship, in its fundamental meaning, is an offering of the complete self to God. Unless we understand that, we will misunderstand both what we do in worship, and what God requires. As a result, we will miss the deep and meaningful relationship with God that we all long for. Furthermore, consider these verses…. 

Romans 12:1-2, I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. [2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

1 Peter 2:5, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 

 

 

C.    THE ENGLISH MEANING OF WORSHIP.

     The English word worship comes from the Old English word worthship, a word which denotes the worthiness of GOD to receive our deepest devotion, thus we are to ascribe worth to God. Worship is an act or practice expressing devotion, reverence, and adoration towards God. It often involves routines, ceremonies, prayers, or other spiritual practices. 

IN JOHN 12:1-8, MARY ANOINTS JESUS WITH EXPENSIVE OINTMENT. Worship in this instance refers to ascribing incredible worth to Christ Jesus. Mary counted the Lord worthy of the costly Ointment. This ointment could have been sold for nearly a year’s wages at that time (vs. 3).  One “pence” (denarii) was a days wages for a common labor or “three hundred pence” is a year’s wages. Today’s equivalent would be about 14 thousand dollars a year’s income for an individual; this is the poverty level in the USA as of 2023. To many today it would be considered a total waste to bestow that much honor on Jesus Christ! Check your annual giving records!  It appeared to be a great waste to the Lord’s closest disciples back in their time.

Matt 26:7-10, There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat. (8) But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste? (9) For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor. (10) When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me.

If we honestly Worship the Lord Jesus with our very existence, then people will label us as wasting our lives on foolish religion!  Even other ‘Christians’ will label us as such!

Missionary David Freeman is serving the Lord in Taiwan reaching precious Chinese people with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Back in high school he played basketball and earned a scholarship to a major college to play basketball for them.  He refused the scholarship and went to Bible College instead to prepare for the ministry. Then after Bible college, he went to Taiwan as a missionary.  Years later, he went back to his old high school where he met his old basketball coach.  He was not a famous millionaire basketball player like he could have been, instead he was a poor missionary that nobody knew.  His coach told him that day that he basically wasted his life on serving God when he could have been a basketball legend.  I say that Bro. Freeman saw Jesus Christ as worthy of his Life and thus he Worshiped Him by pouring out his most valuable possession upon Christ. The “Ointment” of his life and one day its fragrance will fill all of Heaven as the blood washed band of hundreds of precious Taiwanese souls stand in Heaven as a result of his sacrifice! I believe that he will hear Jesus say, “you have wrought a good work upon me!”  No, he did not waste his life!

Conclusion: we have explored our God-given privilege & responsibility of public worship as a NT church.  May we now be more driven to accomplish this God assigned mission when we come together each Sunday morning and evening worship service.

Worship is not always easy, it requires a commitment to worship and a willingness to look for the best Independent Baptist Church we can find and try to make it better through our participation.

 Is Jesus Christ worthy of our time we spend in church, our offerings we give, the song of our hearts, and the adherence to His word?

 Am I here to ascribe worth to Jesus Christ or to get glory for myself?

 Is my life bowed to God in reverence and respect?

 Is my worship merely an outward form or ritual that is void of a deep heart-felt conviction?

 How much is Christ worth to you and me? Is he worth my time, my talents, my treasures, my testimony, my trust, and my true worship?

 Will you commit today to faithfully worship him at the appointed time and with your entire person?

Beloved, explore our God-Given privilege and responsibility of public worship. We need to become motivated to accomplish this God-assigned mission when we come together. Worship is not always easy. Sometimes we do not feel like worshiping. But we are not motivated by feelings! The fact remains that God anticipates our worship, and He definitely deserves it. If we do not understand how to worship, we may go through the motions, but true worship is not happening. The better we understand worship, the more likely we are to be faithful and find it satisfying. Because worship is not always easy, it requires a commitment to worship and a willingness to look for the best church we can find and try to make it better through our participation.

Dare To Be A Living Sacrifice!

ROM. 12:1-2

SUBJECT: CHRISTIAN DEVOTION AND SERVICE

THEME: Dedicate Yourself More Completely to His Glory and Service. 

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. [2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:1-2)

INTRODUCTION:    

1.  Do You Remember the Different Sacrifices Made in the Old Testament?  The Burnt Offering, Meat Offering, Peace Offering, Sin Offering, and the Trespass Offering were all a part of Israel’s worship.   They all cost the worshiper something, there was a price to be paid . . . .  Serving God was not cheap— it cost a life in many cases!  These offerings also point forward to the sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross. He also paid and awesome price to purchase our redemption with His own life’s blood.  If it cost the OT worshiper and the Lord Jesus Himself, then why do we feel we should have an easy Christian life that does not place and demands on our strength, minds, will, and emotions?  Where is the cost for us?  Where is our sacrifice?  Have we ever truly been to the altar of sacrifice with our own lives in our hands to give to God?

2.  Do You Realize That God Wants Us to Make a Sacrifice to Him Also?  This sacrifice should not be a bull or goat or lamb. God wants us to sacrifice ourselves to His service.   When we come to Christ as Savior, we are happy that our sins are forgiven. We are glad to know that we have died to sin and been made alive to God through Christ and the Holy Spirit. These are all things that Jesus does for us as Savior. Today’s message speaks of the things we ought to do for Him as our Lord.

Luke 6:46,  And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?

If we call Him Lord then we should be living lives that adhere to His Words willingly and gladly.   We should be consumed with His agenda, schedule, program, plans, and list of things to do.

   

3.  The Emphasis in the Book of Romans Shifts from Doctrine to Duty: THE GOSPEL LIVED OUT (Chaps. 12-16).

The rest of Romans answers the question: How should those who have been justified by grace respond in their everyday lives? Paul takes up our duties toward other believers, toward the church,  and even toward our enemies in chapter 12.   This series will concentrate on how we can become that Believer who lives supremely for Christ!

MESSAGE:

I.  THE BELIEVER’S CONSECRATION (Rom. 12:1).

1 Chron. 29:5, The gold for things of gold, and the silver for things of silver, and for all manner of work to be made by the hands of artificers. And who then is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the Lord?

Consecration means declaring a thing to be holy or dedicated to the service of God.  Consecration means to come before the Lord with full hands to offer to the Lord.  We are here urged upon by the mercy of God that we consecrate ourselves to the Lord as a Living Sacrifice.

A.  WHAT THE BELIEVER IS TO CONSECRATE.

Mark 12:33, And to love him with all the heart [Emotions & Desires], and with all the understanding [Intellect], and with all the soul [Will & Choices], and with all the strength [Body], and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.

Total devotion is what He requires!  This verse helps us to understand that the Lord wants our Emotional, Intellectual, Volitional, and Physical devotion to Him.  Further God is not impressed with Christians who place a great deal of emphasis on going to church, to the altar, or saying a prayer of repentance when there is no real evidence of true commitment in the life and throughout the week.  God’s not interested in ritualistic Sunday Morning Christianity.  He longs for genuine devotion.  This is the kind of life that really counts with Him.   It’s the life that is concerned first and foremost with God, then with the welfare of others.  Material things are not even mentioned in this passage but they are what most people live for.  But, this verse says that “God is most important!” and “People are very important!”  The person who devotes them self to these priorities have discovered what life is truly all about!

ILLUSTRATION: “LIVING FOR JESUS”

“Living for Jesus a life that is true, striving to please Him in all that I do, yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free—this is the pathway of blessing for me.

Living for Jesus who died in my place, bearing on Calv’ry my sin and disgrace—such love constrains me to answer His call, follow His leading and give Him my all.

Living for Jesus thru earth’s little while, my dearest treasure the light of His smile, seeking the lost ones He died to redeem, bringing the weary to find rest in Him.

Chorus: O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee, for Thou in Thine atonement didst give Thyself for me. I own no other Master—my heart shall be Thy throne: My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.”

B.  HOW IS THE BELIEVER TO CONSECRATE? (Rom. 12:1)

Well, how shall we consecrate ourselves to Him and His plans for us?

   1. Present Your Body to God as an Offering.

Old Testament sacrifices became holy when they touched the altar of the Lord.

Exodus 29:37,  Seven days thou shalt make an atonement for the altar, and sanctify it; and it shall be an altar most holy: whatsoever toucheth the altar shall be holy.

The first thing we need to place on the Altar of consecration is our very own bodies.  The problem with a living sacrifice is the fact that it keeps crawling back off the altar.  We are weak in our resolve to live for God!

       A.  For Crucifying.

We are, therefore, to present our bodies for crucifixion with the Lord that we might have a holy body. Once this is done, we can say with Paul, "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless, I live" (Gal. 2:20). Then our bodies become an acceptable sacrifice. 

APPLICATION: Don’t settle for merely getting by, nor for a mediocre Christian service life.  Don’t give up on excellence and settle for average!   Anybody can be average, live for the level of outstanding and godliness!  2 Tim. 2:19-22,  Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. [20] But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. [21] If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. [22] Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

       B.  For Sacrificing.   Rom. 12:1, “a living sacrifice”

Every part of the Christian's body should be given to the Lord for His service: the head, the hands, the feet, the eyes, and all functioning parts placed in His hands.

ILLUSTRATIONS:  Jacob was never what God wanted him to be until his body was touched for God (Gen. 32:24-32). Daniel was concerned that he not defile the body that had been consecrated by the eating of some meat and the drinking of wine (Dan. 1:8). The three Hebrew children gave their bodies to the fiery furnace and changed the history of mankind (Dan. 3:22-30).  Mary gave her body to God to be used to bring Jesus Christ into the world (Lk. 1:32-38). In the volume of the Bible it is written that Jesus gave His body for a sacrifice (Heb. 10:3-14). The body was meant for sacrificial service to God!  If it strains our energies, requires, hard effort, demands extended effort for long periods then don’t wimp out and quit.  Stay with the task God has given.  Don’t quite serving God simply because it’s inconvenient! 1 Cor. 15:58,  Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

APPLICATION:  All this giving of ourselves is described as “reasonable service.”  There is nothing unreasonable in God's request of our bodies.  1 Cor. 6:18-20,  Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. [19] What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? [20] For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

    1.  It Matters to God What You Do With Your Body.  (1Cor. 6:14-20)

    2.  It Matters to God Where You Take Your Body.  (Heb. 10:24-25; Prov. 23:17-21; 1Pet. 4:1-6)

    3.  It Matters to God What You Put in Your Body. (Prov. 20:1; 23:29-35; Rom. 14:21)

    4.  It Matters to God What You Put On Your Body.  (1Tim. 2:9-10; 1Pet. 3:2-5)

APPLICATION:   It is to be His body. God is not primarily interested in our time, talents, or treasury.  If He has our body, then He has the rest of us too.  The only gift which satisfies the Redeemer Creator is the body of his redeemed creature. (See I Cor. 3:16; 6:19-20; 2 Cor. 8:5.)

     1.  It Is to Be His Living Body. Sometimes it is easier to die for the Lord than it is to live for Him.

     2.  It Is to Be a Separated (Holy) Living Body.  (Rom. 6:13, 16, 19; Phil. 1:20; Heb. 1:22)

Prepare Your Heart II

1 Samuel 7:1-6      

Is there any hope for those who have wandered far way from God? They were once so committed to the Lord, but now.... God forgives and restores His people to fellowship with Himself even after extended periods in deep dark sin.

Are you often frustrated about your inability to make life work?  How would you rate your heart’s devotion to God? Burning hot with passion?  Is it as cold as Antarctica? 

Many Christians’ relationship with God is like a lazy man’s work ethic—half-hearted. They try to manage their relationship with God instead of living with God at the center of their lives. The heart of their problem is their heart is divided with too many priorities, devotions, desires, and demands. This leaves them with a crowded life unprepared to receive all that God wills for them through fellowship with Him. The result is they are overtaxed, guilt ridden, frustrated, anxious, and empty because God seems so far away. Toleration for a certain level of sin has become normal and they have no intentions of addressing their issues.

Unfortunately many fail to realize that there is another possibility. Their future could be much brighter than their murky past. Like the prodigal son, they can come back home to the Father! When we wander far away from God, He graciously awaits our return. He will restore, renew, and revive us again!

Prepare your heart for the God who restores the wayward and revives the back-slider to renewed fellowship with Himself. But, how can we prepare ourselves to come back to Him?

    I.      By Strenuously Avoiding any Attempts to Manage God (7:1-3).

   II.   By Unreservedly Embracing Intimacy with God (7:3-6).

And the men of Kirjath-jearim came, and fetched up the ark of the LORD, and brought it into the house of Abinadab in the hill, and sanctified Eleazar his son to keep the ark of the LORD. 2 And it came to pass, while the ark abode in Kirjath-jearim, that the time was long; for it was twenty years: and all the house of Israel lamented after the LORD. 3 And Samuel spake unto all the house of Israel, saying, If ye do return unto the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among you, and prepare your hearts unto the LORD, and serve him only: and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines. 4 Then the children of Israel did put away Baalim and Ashtaroth, and served the LORD only. 5 And Samuel said, Gather all Israel to Mizpeh, and I will pray for you unto the LORD. 6 And they gathered together to Mizpeh, and drew water, and poured it out before the LORD, and fasted on that day, and said there, We have sinned against the LORD. And Samuel judged the children of Israel in Mizpeh. (1 Sam. 7:1-6, KJV)

The question has been asked, “Can God forgive and restore people who have turned their backs on Him? Is He willing to forgive those who ran off into gross and deep sin?” The answer is absolutely yes! Like the Prodigal Son we can come back home (Luke 15:11-24)! What must we do? Prepare your hearts unto the Lord!

Israel repented of idolatry and devoted herself to serve God exclusively (v. 3-6). Real intimacy is born in a relationship of commitment and trust. It can never exist in a mere association or semi-acquaintance with a near stranger.  In Christianity intimacy is closeness and likeness to God. How can we prepare our hearts for this?

Through Contrition: Return to the Lord thru self-examination, confession, repentance, and obedience (1 Sam. 7:3, 6).

Take a good look at Samuel’s counsel to the nation, “If ye do return unto the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among you, and prepare your hearts unto the LORD, and serve him only….” Again in verse six the Scriptures record, “And they gathered together to Mizpeh, and drew water, and poured it out before the LORD, and fasted on that day, and said there, We have sinned against the LORD.” Finally, in this hour of grave danger and fear, Israel wisely chooses to get right with the Lord God.

With heavy hearts she confesses her sins against the Lord in genuine contrition and sincerity (v. 6). According to Wiersbe, “Samuel poured out water before the Lord as a symbol of the nation’s repentance, their hearts poured out in sorrow for their sins…” in Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the Old Testament. Likewise, we all must agree with God about our sinful failures to honor and glorify Him (See 1Jn. 1:9). This is how prodigals come home to God!

Yes, such confession and brokenness over sin must characterize our return to the Lord and rejection of sin. I say this because we typically confess our sins so casually and insincerely. However, contrition is brokenness over sinfulness against a good and holy God!  It is not feeling bad just because we got caught, or have messed up our lives, or have ruined our favorable opportunities. It is actually feeling affliction in the soul because our conscious toward sins against God rendered us so wounded that we cry out to God for forgiveness and mercy. There is desperation, urgency, and qualified hurt in the heart for having offended God so egregiously and violently.

The Prophet Isaiah precisely communicates the mind and disposition of God when we humble our broken lives before Him seeking forgiveness and restoration saying, “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones” (Isaiah 57:15). What hope and promise in that wonderful passage! Again in Isaiah 66:2, the great prophet says, “For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the LORD: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.” Even though we may have wandered far away from our heavenly Father into dark forms of sin, God says, when we humble ourselves in confession and contrition that He will pay attention and meet our incredible need for forgiveness and restoration.

Beloved, do not allow pride and arrogance to prevent you from humbling yourself before the Lord God. Choose to be more like the contrite Publican the Lord Jesus referred to and never approach God like the proud Pharisee (Luke 18:11-14). God consistently resists and refuses the person who is too proud to honestly acknowledge their wrongs against Him to Him.

It was John Nelson who told the account of the “Revival At Fort Wayne”. At Fort Wayne Bible College, Fort Wayne, Indiana, when the chapel speaker canceled at the last minute, President Wesley Gerig called for student testimonies. They lasted till 5:00 that afternoon. Some students waited in line two hours to confess cheating, hatefulness, indulging in worldly practices, and criticism of campus food. One student confirmed: “I’ve been here three years, and it’s about time I got straightened out.”

Asked why young people are getting “straightened out” now, Fort Wayne’s Grant Hoatson replied, “They’re tired of sham.” Many churches, he added, offer them “little to cling to in a world falling apart spiritually when they are looking for something.”

At Fort Wayne, students are accepted on the basis of their profession of faith, administration officials noted.

Beloved, if we are to truly prepare our hearts unto the Lord God, we too must approach God in utter contrition and confession of sins.

Through Aspiration: Desire and pursue a genuine heart for fellowship with the Lord (1 Sam. 7:3).

Not only through contrition, but now we note preparation through the right kind of aspirations. Not only must we deal honestly with the sin, but God desires to cultivate in each of us a heart for Himself alone. You see, in verse three, Samuel says, “prepare your hearts unto the LORD, and serve him only….” Think about this, what or who is better for us than God? When God demands exclusive rights to our hearts, He is prescribing the absolute very best for us all! In this light, there are four points of valuable counsel we must take note of and adopt as our own personal aspirations.

First, pursue a heart with a singular focus—God. In Matthew 5:8, the Lord Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.” Certainly Christ advocated having a heart that is concentrated on God…a heart that is unequivocally loyal to God. We are extraordinarily blessed when this is true of us! Furthermore, the Psalmist says in Psalm 42:1-2, “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. [2] My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?” Obviously the Psalmist views God as the most fantastic satisfaction and for Him there is no substitute (See also Rev. 3:20). He wants and yearns for the true and living God refusing cheap substitutes of this world. Honestly, Beloved, we live with too many competing priorities and we categorically need a simplified focus—note God’s priority. Consider the counsel of Christ Jesus in Matthew 6:33, where He says, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” What is MOST important to you? Make the Lord Jesus your preeminent and singular focus.

Secondly, pursue a heart with the Savior’s focus—Christ’s comfortable home. In Ephesians 3:17, Paul says, “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love”. We should aspire for Christ to be comfortable and at home in our inner most being. You see, believers are strengthened that Christ may dwell in our hearts by faith. That He might dwelling is our hearts like He owns the place! The point is not that he lives there, but that He feeling at home there! He is a permanent Resident in every saved person, but Paul was praying that Christ might have full access to every room and closet; that He might not be grieved by sinful words, thoughts, motives, and deeds; that He might enjoy unbroken fellowship with the Believer. The Christian’s heart thus becomes the home of Christ, the place where He loves to be—like the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus in Bethany. The heart, of course, means the center of the spiritual life; it controls every aspect of our behavior. In effect, the apostle prays that the lordship of Christ might extend to the books we read, the work we do, the food we eat, the money we spend, the words we speak—in short, the minutest details of our lives. Why? That Christ may be at home in His home!

I believe it was MacDonald who said, “We enter into the enjoyment of His indwelling through faith. This involves constant dependence on Him, constant surrender to Him, and constant recognition of His “at home-ness.” It is through faith that we “practice His presence,” as Brother Lawrence quaintly put it” (Believer's Bible Commentary).

Thirdly, pursue a heart with a sanitized focus—cleansing fellowship. In First John 1:7, the aged apostles says, “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” Beloved, keeping company with Christ has a life cleansing impact. It is true, we will become like those we hang around with. If we intentionally ‘hang around’ with the Lord Jesus it will purge our lives of filth, sin, immoral, irreverent, and carnal motives and aspirations. In the light of His fellowship we will always see our sinfulness clearly, but we will constantly experience the joy of forgiveness and cleansing! Keep walking with the Lord Jesus; desire to be with Him that you may become like Him. Beloved, if we have a heart with a singular, simplified, Savor-friendly, and sanitized focus then we have all the requisite aspirations of a prepared heart!

Through Dedication: Remove all idols from your heart to serve God exclusively (1 Sam. 7:3, 4).

Thus far we have seen the need to prepare our hearts through contrition and aspiration. Now we come to the idea of dedication. We have rejected sin, craved godly desires and goals, and now we are faced with the need to devote ourselves to the Lord and His plan. If we have wandered away from the Lord into sin, then it is time to return to the Lord through complete rededication. Consider what 1 Samuel 7:3, says, “If ye do return unto the LORD with all your heart, then put away the strange gods….” God desires a total commitment to Himself as we decisively forsake all forms of idolatry. What will require of us to obey this principle? Well, quite frankly we must cast out our other ‘Lovers!’ Many times love of traditions, love of pride, love of power, love of money, love of prestige, love of recognition, and love of property comes before the Lord. We cling too ferociously to material things as if they actually define meaning and purpose in life. Remember, we have been warned to “Love not the World” (1Jn. 2:15-17; Col. 2:6-12).

While we are discarding idolatrous implements, do not forget to cast out your other idols! False concepts of God must be forsaken because they hinder our full devotion to the True and Living Lord. Our God is not a Narcissistic Egotist, Divine Santa Claus, Cosmic Killjoy, Passive Grandfather, the Man Upstairs, nor a Divine Tyrant. This is not the God our Bible presents (Ex. 20:3-4; 34:4-9, 14)! The worship of God must be according to spirit and truth. There is no tolerance for gross mischaracterizations of Him. We are called upon to repent of and reject the gods of our imaginations and turn to The God and Father of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Positive compliance with this requirement solicits devoting ourselves to the True and Living God alone (1Sam. 7:3, 4)! Look at what Moses said in Deuteronomy 6:5, “And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” Simply stated God made all of us and He requires entire devotion. It is He who redeemed us comprehensively and this solicits a complete dedication to Him. It is as if God is speaking through the wise Solomon saying “My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways” (Proverbs 23:26). God desires each of our hearts; again this is the absolute best for us. The Lord Jesus, God the Son, required unparalleled devotion and commitment from His disciples. In Matthew 10:37-38, Christ stipulated, “He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. ³⁸ And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” That is correct; the Lord Jesus requires the most complete devotion of His genuine followers. This has always been the case with God. See other biblical examples of entire and comprehensive devotions (Josh. 24:14, 15; Ps. 31:5; Isa. 6:8). This is legitimately a spiritual standard for true believers.

This reminds me of an account I read by Walter B. Knight years ago entitled, “Take All The Keys, Lord.” Dr. F. B. Meyer came to a crucial, transitional time in his ministry. He sat dejectedly in his study. “My ministry is unfruitful, and I lack spiritual power,” he said to himself.

Suddenly Christ seemed to stand beside him. “Let me have the keys to your life,” Christ said. The experience was so realistic that he reached into his pocket and took out a bunch of keys! “Are all the keys here?” “Yes, Lord, all except the key to one small room in my life.” Christ said: “If you cannot trust me in all rooms of your life, I cannot accept any of the keys.”

Dr. Meyer was so overwhelmed with the feeling that Christ was moving out of his life because he was excluding Him from one interest in his life that he cried out, “Come back, Lord, and take the keys to all the rooms of my life!”

Through Submission: Submit to the authority of God’s Word, His judgments, and the leadership He has placed in your life (1 Sam. 7:6). The last portion of verse six says “And Samuel judged the children of Israel in Mizpeh” (1Sam. 7:6). Herein lays this principle of submission. It is rebellion that leads us into sin, but submission to God’s authority in our lives is partly how we come home.

Consider how the nation of Israel gathers in Mizpeh for rededication and to submit themselves to God afresh (v. 5, 6). Samuel judges Israel here attempting to help them correct and straighten out the mess they had made of their lives. His work is corrective and formative! The people are listening to Samuel and following his guidance humbly. Submission is essential to having a heart prepared for the Lord.

Following Christ as Lord requires full submission to Him and His Word. Each of us must recognize His authority in our lives. Christ is Lord of all. Superficial, convenient, enthusiastic, and shallow commitment will never do for a life of real discipleship (Luke 14:25-35). Following Christ means submitting ourselves to God-given authorities in our lives as well. This refers to parents, husbands, proper leaders, godly pastors, and properly elected officials. Christians should follow the leadership of our faithful Pastors as he follows Christ Jesus the Lord. Notice the clarity Hebrews 13:7, 8, brings to this statement saying “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. [8] Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” Again the writer of Hebrews says in chapter 13:17, “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.” It is true not everyone who calls himself ‘pastor’ deserves to be followed because they do not point people to Christ. There are; however, godly men who labor in the Word and sound doctrine, they are solid Gospel preachers, men who are faithful and fervent in prayer, they love the Lord deeply and truly, and they serve God’s churches in the power of God. Such men should be submitted to as they follow Christ; the pretenders should be forsaken as counterfeits who condemn men’s souls to hell. Flee from them…it does not matter how popular they are…they are extremely dangerous wolves.

Preferring The Nickel

A little girl approached her father and said, “Father, I want a nickel.” The father drew out his wallet and offered her a neat five-dollar bill. But the little girl, not knowing what it was, would not take it. “I don’t want that,” she said, “I want a nickel.” Are there times when we deal with our Heavenly Father as this little girl dealt with her earthly father? Do we sometimes ask for some small favor and refuse his offer of a blessing a hundred times more valuable? (Tan: Encyclopedia of 7700 Illustrations)

Through Supplication: Restore prayer as a spiritual discipline to connect with God both individually and corporately (1 Sam. 7:5, 6). Samuel summoned the nation of Israel to Mizpeh for a prayer meeting! This solid prophet of the Lord must always be associated with prayer; see 12:23. He was born in answer to his mother’s prayers (chap. 1); he prayed for his nation and defeated the enemy (7:13); he prayed when Israel defied the Lord and asked for a king (8:6); and he prayed for King Saul (15:11) even after God had rejected him. (Wiersbe: Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the Old Testament)

Perhaps prayerlessness or a weak and inconsistent prayer life is a problem (1Sam. 7:5). Maybe you struggle with irregular prayer habits, no real prayer time. Perhaps prayer is not a passionate experience; it has become a dull and routine. Regardless, you can make communion with God a normal part of your day. Connect with Him early on and stay in contact throughout each day. Build an intimate life with God through prayer; cultivate a heart that is always prepared for Him.

Conclusion:

There is no limit to what God could do through our lives if we would simply give ourselves to Him without reservations. Yes, we must immediately stop trying to manage God, and invite Him to live with us most intimately. Let each of us prepare our hearts for the Lord through contrition, aspiration, dedication, submission, and supplication. Go ahead and start today…now is the perfect time. Prepare your heart...prepare your heart for the Lord Jesus. 

 Stomping On The Violin

It was advertised in one of the large cities of the USA that a great violinist would play on a violin worth $1,000. The theater was packed. Many were curious and wanted to hear such an expensive instrument being played. The violinist went on stage and played very beautifully.

Suddenly, he threw the violin on the floor and then began to stomp on it, crushing it to pieces, then walked off the stage. The people were shocked. But then the manager came on stage and said that the violinist did not really use the $1,000 violin but a $20 one. He would now play on the $1,000 one. And so he did. But few people could tell the difference. He simply wanted to show that it was the violinist rather than the violin that makes the music.

In the Master’s hands, even a $20 fiddle would make good music. (Tan: Encyclopedia of 7700 Illustrations)

Whatever you assess the value of your life to be, it is time to place it in the hands of the Master. He can do far more with it than you or I can. Why not trust Him with you? Give Him all of you….

So, how can we prepare our hearts for the Lord? According to First Samuel 7:1-6, it is by:

·        By Strenuously Avoiding any Attempts to Manage God (1Sam. 7:1-3).

·        By Unreservedly Embracing Intimacy with God (1 Sam. 7:3-6).

Is there any hope for those who have wandered far way from God? They were once so committed to the Lord, but now.... God is the great Restorer and Reviver! Even after extended periods in deep dark sin, He remains our only hope and help for restoration and revival. He is merciful and gracious and full of loving-kindness...why not return to Him? He is able to revitalize our fellowship and life with Him even after long periods of deadness, unfruitfulness, and barrenness--after all of those wasted years. When we return to Him... humble ourselves to confess our sins, repent deep within, and re-dedicate ourselves to Him, He will forgive and receive us unto Himself. He will graciously receive us, even after we have wallowed in the grossest forms of sins.

Will God restore fallen and half-hearted believers who have been trying to "manage" Him instead of embracing a life with Him at the controls? The answer is absolutely, yes! 

 It is time to give God your life! It is time for Him to have control of you: all of you. Revival is possible when we prepare our hearts for the Lord Jesus' rule.