Wednesday evening in our Sermon Replay study we discussed the sermon series based on Matthew 14: 22-33 (Jesus walks on water). Pastor Rawls highlighted three principles in his sermon, that are relevant when we get out of the boat and use the gifts that Jesus gives us as we serve Him.
Principle #1: Jesus is Lord of the gifts. 1 Corinthians 12: 11...All these (gifts) are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses. God distributes the spiritual gifts and equips us and directs us in sharing these gifts. They are not to be put on a shelf or claimed as our own, they are God's gifts to be used for His glory. We asked ourselves what gifts God has given us and it was difficult for many to identify them. We too often fail to recognize that talents and personality traits are gifts that God uses to reveal His goodness. Compassion for others is a gift from God. Praying for others is a gift granted by His Spirit. Hospitality, healing, administration, teaching, preaching, reading and sharing Bible teachings are all gifts that we need to recognize and use in service to Him.
Principle #2: Jesus is Lord of the settled accounts. As we share God's gifts, it is His will that will be done, not our will. Failing to accept this or trust in this is one reason we fail to exercise His gifts. We want to see results in our timing and according to our expectations, but God's plans are perfect and always at the right time. As we use the gifts for Him we must be aware that it is for His glory and for His purposes.
Principle #3: Jesus is Lord of the reward. As we serve Him and use His gifts in our daily walk we will grow more aware of His love for us, our faith will grow, and our trust in Him will become stronger. If we are to be the light of the world, we need to enjoy Him and be at peace in the turmoils of this world. We will enjoy the fruits of the Spirit...Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Generosity, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control.
Discover and Proclaim the Truth of The Bible which is: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life." (John 3:16 NRSV). Jesus came to humanity to proclaim and give evidence to that love and He has commanded us to do the same. We, who believe, must not merely be followers, but we must be proclaimers of the Gospel Message and we can only do that by being filled with the love of God.
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