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Nehemiah 1:8-10, 2 Cor. 3:1-6, and 2 Chron. 20
We invite you to join us for worship each Sunday morning at 9:30. You can also download our service at Baptist-Christian at iTunes. We have studied that prayer must include adoration, brokenness, and confession of sin. It’s not hard to adore God, but it’s hard for us to be broken and admit that we are sinners. The reason is that we have not given God unchallenged sovereignty in those areas of our lives. In 1:8-10, Nehemiah summarizes the terms of covenant relationship with God in the words “return and obey.” In essence Nehemiah is telling us we need to depend on God. Paul tells us in the 2 Corinthians passage our confidence comes from God. That confidence is a result of trusting or depending on God over the long haul. In 2 Chronicles 20 Jehoshaphat teaches us some key elements of depending on God. Notice
- A RESOLVE TO ASK GOD FOR GUIDANCE! God doesn’t use the word “depend,” but He does use synonyms like “trust, rely, and lean upon!” Those aren’t bad words to say, they are just hard words to live – because they all imply someone else is in charge. Notice that when Jehoshaphat learned he and Judah were in danger he resolved to inquire of the Lord.” 19:3 tells us he had set his heart on seeking the Lord. The first characteristic of dependence on God is “a heart devoted to seeking the Lord.” In order to ask God for guidance through danger or crisis, you must first be asking Him to guide you through your daily life. When adversity strikes we tend to panic. During a “panic attack” in order to seek the Lord’s face in crisis, you must be so accustomed to seeking Him in calm that asking for guidance is normal! The second characteristic of dependence on God is being dedicated to leadership. It may sound strange, but “J” alerted all the people and called them to fast (and pray.) Every Christian husband and wife, father and mother have leadership responsibilities to one another and their children. Notice also that “J” revealed
- A RESOLVE TO FOLLOW GOD WHEN HE GUIDED! Our follow through, or lack of it, reveals the true character of our heart towards dependence on God. Notice that after prayer Jahaziel offered six characteristics of an attitude of dependence on God. 1st= don’t be afraid/discouraged at size of the obstacle. Satan is very effective in using those tools to stop us from depending on God. 2nd= let God do the fighting. 3rd= prepare as God directs (v. 16, 17). The people had to dress for war and go to the battlefield; or they had to do what God knew they could do! 4th= worship! Many people stop worshipping in crisis because they think God’s mad at them. They also think they have to “clean up” before they can come to Him. That’s sin working! 5th= don’t lose faith that God will fight for you. 6th give God praise and adoration for His holiness – on the way to battle!!! Now, consider all these things and it is easy to see why a person must be in the habit of walking with God on a daily basis. These are “advanced steps” in the Christian’s walk, but all are possible. Why not put them to the test and see how long it takes you to carry home your blessings.
If we can help you with this or any other spiritual matter or question call us at (574) 643-9419.
