Sometimes keeping quiet and minding your own business is the most effective weapon…(1 Thessalonians 4:11).

“Don’t Let Your Troubles Fool You!’

Have you ever thought before that God is not with you simply because of all the troubles you going on in your life? Or sometimes it seems like trouble follows you around?

Well if this is you, I have some good news for you. Maybe God is trying to get your attention – to let you know that its time to change your behavior – to get a better result. And not just any result. Its time to get to the place God has been trying to take you to for a long time.

Take a look at the first chapter in 1 Kings. Upon first glance it is the story of Solomon’s journey to becoming the king of Israel. But if you take a closer look you can probably find the foot prints of your own journey as well

1). 1 King 1:5 – Adonijah exalts himself. Have you ever experienced times when people got things that you felt so strongly belonged to you? This is especially devastating when you know you are more qualified or deserving. However, just because things did not work out as you expected does mean its time to give up.

2). 1 Kings 1:6 – David did not correct him. There are times when we witness bad behavior go unchecked or uncorrected. This can be extremely aggravating, but don’t give up. This is only a tool to get your attention. Its time to really seek God about the situation and don’t move (or make a move) until he speaks to you.

3). 1 Kings 1:12 – Wise counsel of Nathan. Recognize wise counsel when it seeks you out. As you begin to seek God about the situation you have to watch (be on the look-out) for the avenue in which your deliverance will come. But rest assured – your deliverance will come. Have an open heart (and mind) to receive and embrace wise counsel – prayerfully. As the scripture says in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – Pray without ceasing.

4). 1 Kings 1:13-27 – Follow instructions. This is key. Remember, God has been trying to get your attention for a long tim. Now that he has it, you need to follow the instructions he provides to the letter. Your obedience is a requirement if you are going to move from one level to the next (see 1 Samuel 15:22). Remember you have been doing things wrong for a while. Your natural inclination is to continue this behavior, but resist this. Follow instructions instead. The benefits out weigh your personal sacrifice.

5). 1 Kings 1:32-40 – God moves – works it out for your good. One thing is always certain, God is faithful, he cannot deny Himself. When you follow his instructions (the Word, His will), your positive outcome is assured (see Jeremiah 29:11).

Be courageous – dare to change your perspective. By changing the way you view the troubles of your life can also lead to a changed life. However, you must be brave enough to give up past behaviors (including mistakes), and concentrate on doing what is necessary to move to the next level in God.

Welcome to the first post of my new blog!

The purpose of this blog is to share the Word of God with all.  To help people understand that God’s word is the foundation for a victorious life. To understand that every decision and choice we make should be governed by the principles found in the bible.

“I Was Commanded to Live Large”

Scripture Text: Luke 19; 13-26
Supporting scriptures: Mark 13; 34-37
Matthew 25;14-30

I always like to share definitions – many times, we all think we know what commonly (and not so commonly) used words mean. However, I have found that a little reminder can open our understanding to the bible greatly. I will usually provide helpful definitions as I share the word with you.

I. Definitions:

Occupy – to take up or fill up; reside in
Austere – Severe, strict in manner, attitude, or appearance. Plain, simple, having no comfort or luxuries.
Excuse – attempt to lessen the blame attaching to (a fault or offense); seek to defend or justify. Release from a duty or requirement.

Luke 19:13-26 tells the parable of the ruler who is about to go on a journey to receive his kingdom, but before he leaves he gives his servants provisions and an assignment – “Occupy til I come.” The thing to understand is the word “occupy” is far more expansive then many understand. To occupy involves complete occupation of the entire territory God has given to each of us. He expects us to live large – filling very inch with ministry. Every person shouuld work according to their own gifts, calling, talents, and abilities. This is a large life.

God does not want us live small. Small living is like the servant who buried the talents or provisions the ruler left him. His fear kept him from completing the assignment – “Occupy til I come.” Oh, yes he used excuses as to why he failed. However, all he received in return was the ruler’s displeasure.

II. Background – supporting scriptures:

Mark 13; 34-37 – Tells this parable as the Son of Man, and provides a warning – He could come at any time – don’t let him catch you unprepared.
Matthew 25; 14-30 – Also shares this parable – provides a warning – the lazy, unfaithful servant shall be cast into outer darkness – there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

III. Fear is your Enemy;

1. Don’t let fear keep you from doing God’s will. The unfaithful servant was to busy being afraid of what might happen, instead of focusing on the assignment and provisions already given.
2. You know who you are dealing with, act accordingly. Part of the excuse (please see definition above) the unfaithful servant gave was that he knew what type of man th ruler was. The ruler used the unfaithful servants words against him.

IV. Live Large – Occupy your entire space (circle of influence).

1. Live your life filling the entire space God has given you. Fill it up doing the things God has placed in your heart to do. Go back and revisit those old ideas and dreams you had. Don’t let the enemy use various forms of fear as a tool to tie you to a small life. Be bold, and step out on faith.
2. Do not live a small life – to afraid to venture out farther than your are now. Understand not only does God have more for you, but He also REQUIRES more from you.

It is time for us all to live LARGE!.