“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” (James 3:17-18)
June 19th 2011 - "A Blue Book Exam for Believers" - Dan Stewart
“I swear by myself, declares the LORD, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you…” (Genesis 22:16–17a)
Main thoughts: I. Expect times of TESTING from the LORD. “God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness.” See Hebrews 12:10-11. II. Focus on PROMISES, not EXPLANATIONS. “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine …” Ephesians 3:20 III. Depend on God’s PROVISION, not your POWER. “He who did not spare his own Son, … – how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” Romans 8:32 IV. Seek to ELEVATE Christ, not just ENDURE. “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13 V. Look FORWARD to what GOD has for you. “However, as it is written: ‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.’” 1 Corinthians 2:9
Summary: God tests us in the ‘School of Faith’ so we can KNOW where we need to GROW. How will knowing that affect the way you think about your next spiritual Blue Book exam?
Genesis 22:9-18 (click on Verse to see passage in NIV Translation)
Bulletin May 20th