Let Us First Ask God

Speaker: Toby Soechting

Scripture: Judges 1:1-8

INTRODUCTION:

1. Before his death, Joshua reminded the people of grave consequences that would follow along the path of disobedience (cf. Josh. 24:20). 
2. Upon the death of Moses, Joshua was named as successor.  At the death of Joshua, no one was named (Josh. 1:1)!

DISCUSSION:  
I. THE BEST STEP TO DETERMINE WHERE AND HOW TO GO IS TO FIRST ASK GOD.

• Now after the death of Joshua it came to pass that the children of Israel asked the LORD, saying, “Who shall be first to go up for us against the Canaanites to fight against them?” (Judges 1:1)

II. COOPERATION WITH OTHERS IS KEY.

• “And the LORD said, “Judah shall go up. Indeed I have delivered the land into his hand.”   3 So Judah said to Simeon his brother, “Come up with me to my allotted territory, that we may fight against the Canaanites; and I will likewise go with you to your allotted territory.” And Simeon went with him.”   (Judges 1:2,3)

III. EVERYONE HAS A JOB TO DO.

• “And Judah went with his brother Simeon, and they attacked the Canaanites who inhabited Zephath, and utterly destroyed it. So the name of the city was called Hormah.” (Judges 1:17)

Conclusion:  Israel sought the counsel of God because she was concerned about losing her inheritance (promised land of Canaan).  Being in possession of better promises ( Heb. 7:22, 8:6, 12:24) let us include God’s counsel as we labor steadfastly for our Lord.

Let Us Ask God First

Things We Wouldn't Miss In 2012

Speaker: Toby Soechting

Scripture: Proverbs 23:7

INTRODUCTION:

1. Life is a grindstone.  But whether it grinds us down, or polishes us up depends upon us. (Unknown)
2. The condition of this congregation is very much the result of our attitudes and her future depends much on that of preceding generations.

DISCUSSION:  IF IT FAILED TO APPEAR IN 2012, WE WOULD NOT MISS --
I. PROCRASTINATION.

1. Here’s an attitude that doesn’t say, “we won’t!” but instead says, “Let’s wait until…”
2. When working for the Lord’s sake, Christians are to be steadfast, immovable, and always abounding (1 Cor. 15:58).
3. God promised forgiveness to your repentance, but He has not promised tomorrow to your procrastination (Augustine).

II. WORRY.

1. Stewing without doing.
2. Faith and worry cannot exist at the same time!
3. Understanding God’s will gives us hope (Heb. 6:18-19).

III. COMPLACENCY.

1. God deserves our best, and that will require desire, determination, and dedication (Mt. 6:33; Mk. 12:30).
2. This congregation has done amazing things, but this congregation can do more!
3. Christians own the future!

IV. FEAR

1. Fear is the dark room where negatives are developed.
2. God has given Christians a spirit of power (2 Ti. 1:7)

Conclusion:  

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

Things We Wouldn't Miss In 2012

The Problem With Plans

Speaker: Jeff Enoch

Scripture: Luke 14:25-33; John 14:6; Romans 12:1-2

Overview:

It is often important to plan ahead and be prepared for things that we may encounter in our lives. But sometimes those plans may fall through and we are left to rely on our "fundamental way of life". We should look to Christ as an example of the right way to live so that we will be able to handle those unforseen events of our lives.

The Problem with Plans

What Is Happening in the Lord's Work "Down Under"?

Speaker: Rod Kyle

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Overview:

What has been happening in the mission field "down under"? A work completed; new work to do. Rod gives us a report of his efforts in New Zealand.

What is happening in the Lord's work "down under"?