God’s training, God’s timing
15th January 2012
1 Samuel 6:14-23
- There can be confusion about the main character of 1 Samuel – which is David – as he doesn’t turn up until quite far into the book.
- David here is back still as a shepherd – a huge lesson for us about God’s process for preparing people.
- The more significant the calling of God on our lives, the more time and possibly pain it will take for preparation.
- God will prepare you for anything He wants to accomplish through you.
- Sometimes we have a sense of amazing destiny – called to a great task. But great things come about through long process – so that they are done right.
- We want instant results and we can get addicted to the “sudden” and “crisis” moments, where essentially God bails you out.
- God sometimes closes your “lazy eye” – i.e. the sudden moments of life – so you can grow and become strong and balanced. When this happens we often assume we were wrong about the destiny – but it might actually be proof that it is right.
- David gets on with the humdrum, everyday work even though he has great destiny on him.
- We often view the workplace as unspiritual and meaningless. Huge mistake – God means for us to work; He Himself is a worker! He views it as very spiritual. We are made in His likeness. We are to work and bring order where there is chaos.
- Psalm 8:5-8 – what are humans here for? Dominion over earth.
- The Bible condemns selfish ambition, but it is wicked not to be ambitious! Your life is an opportunity to achieve great things!
- Some people struggle with doors not opening to them – but God is in control over all the doors. His plans are for good for you.
- V.18 – amazing how God can reverse circumstances in one move. BUT it’s never just about the “one move” (the crisis moment) – just like chess, it is about a series of moves.
- In hindsight you usually see how and why the process worked out the way it did.
- Don’t make too many assumptions about the season you’re in.
- It is Christ that you’re serving through everything, whatever season.
- Don’t assume that what you’re doing now is pointless.
- God is training you to reign! We are called to be kings and queens, to reign with Christ. Revelation 5:9-10 – our destiny.
- Be free from trying to “be someone” as our culture defines. Jesus sets you free