When we didn’t do well, are “that’s God’s will” or “that’s sovereignty of God” excuses? Just to make yourself not feel lousy?
Prosperity gospel teaches emmanuel = worldly success. We need to go back some key principles of the bible when we talk about achieving success of the world.
1. The Principle of Creation, Fall, Restoration
1) <Genesis 1: 27>: Inherent quality of God's creation in men -> Reflect attributes of God
It is for man to reflect the quality of our invisible God to the visible world.
Only man is able to reflect the qualities the best, not animals.
Spiritual sense (the ability to communicate with God) > Common sense
2) <Genesis 1: 28>: How to reflect?
(1) Fruitful and multiply = Evangelism
(2) Subdue/Rule = Reign (Submission)
Your every idea to glorify God through worldly achievement must have the two key components (evangelism and submission)
2. David’s Godliness & Inspiration
<1 Samuel 18: 5 - 9>
1) David became the best in whatever God has tasked him - consistent success.
2) There is a consistent dependency on God in the midst of hard work.
<Psalms 16: 8> I have set the Lord always before me as He is at my right hand and I will not be shaken.
<1 Samuel 17: 33 - 37> David talked about the trainings but he wrapped up at verse 37 that it is still his dependence of God that helped him in everything.
It is not about how much revision you have done for your exams, the key is your dependence, is it on yourself (self-will) or God?
*Check yourself, is it a genuine dependency?
3) David has people’s concern in his heart - benefit people
Most of the times, it is all for ourselves. You can achieve, but people can sense your ego and competitiveness. Your success will pull people away from God.
David’s selflessness cause people to rejoice for his success.
4) David remained humble despite his success.
He always want to be a small king so that God can be a great king.
5) Do your best for the Lord = Put in your best effort
Do not think about the outcomes, achievements, incentives and rewards - have the attitude to just do your best.
3. The key to doing our best
<Colossians 3: 23 - 24>
Don’t do things to how you feel or by your nature.
When you are born again, you will have a born again attitude.
1) Work at it with all your heart
You will not only do well, and receive the best of it. When you start comparing with others or judging yourself, you will start to lose heart.
2) Do it as you are working for the Lord, not men
Man is created to glorify God alone. Connect your heart to the Lord’s and you will gain strength and wisdom.
Remember, David managed the country for the Lord and fought for the Lord.
Practice and you will gradually be more dependent to HS’s guidance during trials.
3) Receive an inheritance from the Lord as reward
What is inheritance?
(1) Heavenly blessing - To be able to see ourselves being the witness of Christ and bringing people to Christ.
(2) Consistence success to glorify God.