BEWARE OF TIME WASTERS

Scripture: Judges 19:1-9

 “Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days” Ephesians 5:16 (NLT)

Time is a natural phenomenon that God has apportioned to everyone in equal proportion. The old, the young, the poor, and the rich all have 24hrs in a day. But what makes the difference is the ability to manage this time well. Time is a resource that needs to be wisely and rightly invested.

WHOSE APPROVAL?

Scripture: Judges 2:6-14

“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ” Galatians 1:10 (NIV)

Many people appear active and hardworking in service or their jobs whenever their leaders or bosses hover over them. They act diligently with the hope of winning the appreciation or applause of men.

UNDERSTANDING THE TIMES

Scripture: Matthew 17:9-13

“So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise.” Ephesians 5:15 (NLT)

In our quest to meet our daily needs and desires in life, we can become insensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. The thoughts and pursuit of a better and more satisfying life engulf our minds at the expense of our spiritual growth and well-being.

LEVEL OF FAITH

Scripture: Judges 1:16-20

 “Truly I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, be taken up and be put into the sea; and has no doubt in his heart, but has faith that what he says will come about, he will have his desire.” Mark 11:23 (BBE)

Certain phases or experiences in life can be very puzzling and unsettling but no matter the heat, faith in God will bring you out. No matter the situation in which we find ourselves,

BOLD STEP TO BREAKTHROUGH

 Scripture: Ruth 1:6-18

“Only be thou strong and very courageous…that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest” Joshua 1:7 (KJV)

Boldness is an attribute of the Holy Spirit. It does not depend on how much you have or who you are, but on who you are in Christ Jesus. When Ruth left Moab with her mother-in-law, she had no clue what the future held for her.

SPEAK LIFE, ALWAYS

Scripture: Judges 12:4-7

“And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech betrayeth thee”. Matthew 26:73 (KJV)

 Feedback: Share how waiting on the Lord renewed your strength.

The people of Ephraim had their own regional pronunciation for the word ‘Shibboleth’ which means flowing stream or floods.

SELF GLORIFICATION

Scripture: Judges 12:1-3

For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay [them] on men’s shoulders; but they (themselves) will not move them with one of their fingers.” Matthew 23:4 (KJV)

The displeasure of the men of Ephraim against Jephthah was motivated by pride. They wanted to be recognized and given the place of glory as conquerors. But where were they when the people were being oppressed by the Ammonites?