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“Now What?” Proverbs 3:5-12  I. Now What? A. Now we step out boldly…because God is leading. Proverbs 3:5 – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight.” B. Now we respond to what we’ve been shown… because God’s way is secure. Proverbs 3:6 – “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” C. Now we avoid the distractions…because they offer us nothing. Proverbs 3:7-8 – “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. It will be a healing for your flesh and a refreshment for your body.” D. Now we seek God’s success…because it lasts. Proverbs 3:9-10 – “Honor the LORD with your substance and with the first fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.” E. Now we listen carefully…because God is still teaching us. Proverbs 3:11-12 – “My child, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the LORD reproves the one he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.” II. Application Point: Our church will grow if EACH OF US makes a commitment to the “Now Whats”. The Personal Challenge: Of these “Now Whats”… …which will you commit to work on intentionally? …how will you work on it. 1. On a scale of 1-10 (10 = Absolutely No Problem), how easy is it for you to trust the Lord with your future? 2. Of the five “Now Whats”, which is easiest for you to do? What makes is easy? Which is most difficult to put into action? How can that become easier? 3. How does your commitment to the “Now Whats” impact the growth of our church? Why should any of us be concerned with the future of our church if it impacts how we live? 4. Throughout the 40 Days, practice this Common Prayer: “God, show us your will and we will follow it. Show us your love and we will share it. Show us your grace and we will offer it. For we want to be like Jesus in every way. Holy Spirit, transform us to be like our Savior. In his name we pray. Amen” October 5 – “The Big Picture” (Romans 12) October 12 – “Our United Cause” (Philippians 1) October 19 – “Keys to Belonging” (James 4) October 26 – Growing Together November 2 – “Many Hands…” (Ecclesiastes 4:7-12) November 9 – “Letting God Know” (Matthew 22:37-38) November 16 – “Now What?” (Proverbs 3:5-12) ** All Scripture passages are from the New Revised Standard Version unless otherwise noted. ** All emphasis in Scripture and Quotes has been added. © Rev. Dr. Kirk A. McCormick, all rights reserved. Please link to Sermon to read the full text of a previous week's sermon. Updated November 15, 2008 |
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