Posted on Tue, Mar 9, 2010
Highlights of a sermon given by Pastor Michael Spearl on Feb 13, 2010 by Susan Bond
Our pastor used to seek the type of balanced life that popular self-help authors promote. This balance suggests we try to make life more manageable and convenient. But this kind of balance is lacking something. It lacks sacrifice and service in God’s kingdom. God is looking for more from us than a convenient life. Jesus didn't say, "Take up your cross, follow me, and lead a balanced life."
Proverbs 4:23 says: “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life”. What we need is internal balance, not external balance. We need hearts that love the right thing with the right love to the right degree. In Colossians 3:17, Paul exhorts us to do everything in Jesus' Name. Doing something in the Name of Jesus means doing it in His character.
How do you get up in the morning in Jesus’ name? It has been said that there are two kinds of people in the world: those who love to wake up in the morning and those who hate those who love to wake up in the morning. Do you wake up grumpy in the morning or do you let her sleep? How do you drive a car in Jesus’ name? Would your car drive differently if Jesus were behind the wheel? Are you kind? Do you greet others with a smile?
How do you work in Jesus' Name? Do you see co-workers as people with families? When Jesus worked as a carpenter, He showed His character every bit as much as when He walked in ministry. Do you sense the radical difference between the character of Jesus and your convenient life? Paul was saying, "Do life in Jesus' Name."
The start of a race is enjoyable, but finishing the race is glory. Finishing means we continually honor our commitments, even when it becomes difficult. Pastor Michael spoke of races in which he participated: runners were smiling, exercising with enthusiasm before the race began. Anticipation of a good run was in the air. Further into the race things were a lot different. The runners were no longer smiling. Many of them carried a grim look of determination. Finishing was hard work. The start of the race was enjoyable. But finishing the race is what really counted—that’s where the glory was. Finishing is what counts. Perseverance is what we can offer to God no matter our talent or IQ. A life transformed by the Holy Spirit runs the race set before us; we don't quit.
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