After forty days Noah opened a window he had made in the ark and sent out a raven, and it kept flying back and forth until the water had dried up from the earth. How did Joseph show his faith in Gods promise to Abraham? . Rob and his wife Stephanie have three children. We know then that Tychicus becomes a traveling friend of Paul on his journeys to share Jesus Christ throughout the world. What was the significance of this tunic and what impact might that have had on his brothers? We thank God He has called us to join in His glorious work in His creation. 1. He waited seven more days and sent the dove out again, but this time it did not return to him. But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Joseph didnt know why God had chosen this path for his life until the very end, yet he never seemed to waver. Clarence Thomas called affirmative action 'critical' before comparing CountingMyBlessings, 2007-2022. The passage today is Pauls final remarks and personal greetingshis encouragement to the churchand to let his family (Christians throughout Asia) know how he is doing. As Christians at times we can be immature and doubt Gods will. Chapter 38 seems like an interruption to our story of Joseph in Egypt, but it is a narrative of what took place back in Canaan during this time, especially concerning the life of Judah. 2. At one point your post led me to think of the song Jesus Loves Me. Rahab was a prostitute in Jericho. Isaac had many fears. InGenesis 25:21, we read about Isaac praying on behalf of his wife Rebekah, God answering his prayer, and the twinsJacob and Esaubeing born. May you be blessed as you celebrate the One whose purpose has always been to give you all you need to live in victory. When the road gets rough, we wonder whats wrong. - The fact the Paul mentions Mark in this letter is proof of how Jesus changing Marks life. However, he also made a terrible error for which his people were to pay dearly. 5526 State Road 26 EastLafayette, IN 47905. He waited seven more days and again sent out the dove from the ark. Rahab was a prostitute in Jericho. As God blesses you, commit yourself to be His channel of blessing to others. Are you willing to let God do whatever He needs to in your life to make you usable to Him? There was a famine in that land. He meets a pair of pants which walks around with no one inside them. Remember Mark is Barnabass cousin and guess whos there. The sins of the fathers ! And those who walk in pride he is able to humble' (4:37). Philippians 3:4-7 - although I myself might have confidence even in the flesh. His plan in doing so was to bless all people. Robs responsibilities include oversight of the Faith Biblical Counseling Ministry and teaching New Testament at Faith Bible Seminary. Kathy, I cant tell you how much your encouragement means to me. He also benefited from having the prophet Isaiah as a court counsellor. Lastly, is the letter of Philemon which is about Onesimus who is going with Tychichus. That death, "the just for the unjust" ( 1 Peter 3:18, NKJV ), was not an accident but was God's intended purpose. He is a beloved brother and faithful helper in the Lords work. Joseph - Submitted to His Purpose | The HOPE Project So we mask our hurts and prevent the healing that could take place if we would learn to bear one anothers burdens in Christian love. Exodus Chapter 3 tells us about Moses and the call of God. Lesson 89: The People God Uses (John 17:6-12) | Bible.org Required fields are marked *. ( Acts 2:23; 4:27-28 ). Also, we read about Gods words coming true in later years when Jacob and his sons went to Egypt because of the famine and how they will become enslaved in a country not their own. Service Times8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 11:00 a.m. 1920 Northwestern AveWest Lafayette, IN 47906, 2017-04-09_handout_god_uses_many_people_to_accomplish_his_purposes.docx: Faith East, 2017-04-09_manuscript_god_uses_many_people_to_accomplish_his_purposes.docx: Faith East, 2017-04-09_audio_god_uses_many_people_to_accomplish_his_purposes_green.mp3: Faith East, https://s3.amazonaws.com/faith-web-assets/general/resources/audio/2017-04-09_audio_god_uses_many_people_to_accomplish_his_purposes_green.mp3?mtime=20170518121412&focal=none, 6 Practical Truths For Every Christian (5), 6 Practical Truths For Every Christian (4), 6 Practical Truths For Every Christian (3), 6 Practical Truths For Every Christian (2), 6 Practical Truths For Every Christian (1), God Uses Many People to Accomplish His Purposes, The Preeminence of Christ in the Way We Speak. There are individuals in your life that Jesus wants to use you to comfort and encourage to continue to live faithfully for Christ. Pharoah heard of what Moses had done and tried to kill him. Let us begin, and our first group of people will be the patriarchs of the Jewish nation, Israel. Five times I received from the Jews thirty-nine lashes. Onesimus hasnt been of much use to you in the past, but now he is very useful to both of us. 4. Howie was from a broken home, raised by his grandmother in Philadelphia. Only Luke is with me. 2 Timothy 4:11a NLT, [Examples of individuals with special skills at Faith West]. So Isaac had ordinary trials, fears, sin, and hassles. I looked on the internet for the concern and identified most individuals will go along with along with your web site. Click here to read the rest of Revelation 17. . But there are years of heartache capsulized in the few words of verse 35. And Paul shares in his letter to Philemon how Christ changes Onesimus from a useless rebellious slave to a useful brother. (Exodus 2:1-4 NIV) Now a man of the tribe of Levi married a Levite woman, 2 and she became pregnant and gave birth to a son. 4. Today we look at Josephs last days after his father Jacob died. Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights (Jonah 1:17). (Video) What should be the mission of the church? Remember my imprisonment. 1. You think about every word, every emoji, every punctuation. But, God is very faithful and merciful and sent His son Jesus Christ to reconcile us back to Himself. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Our aim is to share the Word and be true to it. Note how Isaac was an ordinary man with ordinary problems: Isaac had ordinary trials. Im not implying that its all right to tolerate a little bit of sin in your life. Here is the chief family on the face of the earth as far as Gods purpose went, and yet they had problems. - New Testament, Baptist Bible Seminary. So the girl went and got the babys mother. Held up as an example of wisdom, Solomon wasn't always wise. Isaac had ordinary hassles. Why did God choose to use the church as His primary "hands and feet" in the world? Serve them sincerely b ecause of your reverent fear of the Lord. Colossians 3:22 NLT. The nuance of the word play is not that it was wrong for Isaac to be sporting with his wife, but rather that his faithless behavior made a mockery of the great promise of God embodied in his name. Isaac had ordinary fears. If anyone else has a mind to put confidence in the flesh, I far more: circumcised the eighth day, of the nation of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the Law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to the righteousness which is in the Law, found blameless. Why does Gods blessing not necessarily mean a hassle-free life? He had great dreams that made him feel good about himself. The first chapter of the Bible sets the stage: "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth" (Gen. 1:1). God accomplishes his purposes. 7-18)? Who was the Venerable Bede and why is he important? Paul says, As to all my affairs, Tychicus will bring you information (v.7), For I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know about our circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts (v.8), They will inform you about the whole situation here. (v.9). Why do such a despicable thing? Then, God did an amazing thing: He gave the donkey power of speech! Onesimus trusts in Jesus and is a changed man. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi! Since the beginning of time, God has used people on earth to accomplish His purposes. This brings us to Chapter 45, when Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers. From the closing remarks be encouraged that Jesus is Lord, he uses everyone, all people for his marvelous purposes. July 6, 2021 Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob We thank God He has called us to join in His glorious work in His creation. 3. Satan's Part in God's Perfect Plan | Bible.org Balaams donkey refused to move because the donkey could see the angel, but hard-hearted Balaam could not! Let God use you to accomplish His divine purpose through you. So Tychicus did not grow up hearing the promises of God in the Old Testament. in Christian Education with a focus on Women's Ministry from Dallas Theological Seminary. Learnt one thing new these days! And Isaac was a real pro at the sportin fact, the sport was named after the guy!. Later on God reveals some of the practical legal implications of this (e.g., Romans 13:1-6); but here the . midst of prosperity and adversity. But Jesus changes the life of Tychicus, and uses Christians to bring the good news about Jesus Christ to him and Tychichus trusts in Jesus. Apart from such external things, there is the daily pressure on me of concern for all the churches. Orthodox Christian teachers are on the chopping block, Hope while waiting: How Christians are responding to people who have been forced to flee their homes, Decriminalising abortion would harm more women and babies. Women in leadership roles within the church and ministry have become a hot topic today. Isaac lagged behind God, even as his son Jacob tended to run ahead of God. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight, Daniel tells the Babylonian king (Daniel 6:22). (1 Kings 11). Jesus had come to earth to die for the redemption of sinners. The ordinary people God uses are ordinary sinners just like you and me, but, as Ill show in a moment, sinners who are working at obeying God. Thank you for faithfully visiting and for your kind encouragement! We often highlight Abraham's faith that God would give him a child, but Abraham was not perfect in keeping the faith. Does it matter. When someone reported to Dorothy Parker the news that Coolidge had died, she replied, How can they tell?. Jesus uses Archippus who needs encouragement. Another example of God using animals to accomplish His purposes in modern times involves wild boars that attacked and killed ISIS militants who have often targeted Christians. . The. Bethel was known at the time for its immersion in idolatry, and God certainly was showing by this shocking incident that such blatant disregard of God and His prophet would not be permitted without consequence. In verses 21-27 Reuben and Judah came to Josephs defense. 9 And now the cry of the Israelites has reached me, and I have seen the way the Egyptians are oppressing them. Not all examples of God using animals to accomplish His purposes are found in the Bible or in ancient times. How was God already developing Josephs gifts at the age of 17? He sought peace by yielding his rights and moving on. . James 1:27 says, "Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world." One of the purposes of the church is to provide for the needs of its members ( Acts 20:34-35; Romans 15:26 ). Although he lived longer than Abraham, Jacob, and Joseph, Isaacs life is pretty much covered in one chapter whose most exciting feature is some squabbles over some wells. - John Mark who is called Mark in the Bible, was a Jewish Christian. ConsiderJesus was using a man who would later stop serving. What he was unable to do in his own reign was accomplished by his successor. I encourage you to read missionary biographies and learn of the trials that these dear saints have endured for the kingdom of God. Discuss in light of Gen. 26:12-21. Why did he do what he did? All rulers are flawed, and Donald Trump is no exception. Second, note that while God blessed Isaac materially, the very blessing was also a source of chastening, because it made the Philistines envy Isaac and stop up his wells (26:14-15). Pastor of Faith Church East and Seminary Ministries - Faith Church, MABC Department Chair, Instructor - Faith Bible Seminary, B.S. 10 When the child grew older, she took him to Pharaohs daughter and he became her son. Those to whom Moses was writing had to go through the battles of taking Canaan bit by bit. Today, we need to see ourselves in the stream of what God is doing in history. 3 But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. Did God use non-believers to help His people? - BibleAsk Jesus desires to change the lives of non-Jewish people. He is a great example for us to follow. Thank God He uses us while were growing, before weve arrived! God was accomplishing His purpose by using an ordinary man who obeyed Him. 7. Does Gods favor mean prosperity? God called Abraham, who at the time was called Abram. Just like us, the Colossians should not doubt Gods word is true. Have you ever thought about why God allows hassles in your life? But Jesus looks at the heart, and uses this non-Jewish man in significant ways because is a faithful servant and has a servants heart. God requires that we obey Him, and we demonstrate faith if we want to walk and work with Him. What is the purpose of the church? May Jesuss will be done in our lives as we seek to serve him and may the good news of Jesus Christ continue to spread as we are faithful servants to complete the good works Jesus has for us. By Gods grace we will live for Christ all the days of our lives. and stretching him. So it's God working behind the scenes when he wants to stay anonymous to accomplish his sovereign will. God once again spoke to him, encouraging him to not be afraid to go to Egypt and reminding him of His promise to make him a great nation (Gen. 46:1-4). Our wise and perfect God can and sometimes does use the sin already existing in our world to fulfill His purpose. How has Joseph changed in his relationship with God and his family since he was a young boy? Jonahs place of repentance and re-dedication to Gods mission even ended up being the belly of this huge fish! Jesus changes people like Lukeeducated skeptics with special skillsto faithful believers. The Bible is full of people God used for His purpose. He starts off for Egypt without consulting the Lord. Paul refused to allow Mark to go with him as a companion on his travels, so Barnabas, Pauls companion actually chooses to take Mark and sail for Cyprus. Downloadhttps://s3.amazonaws.com/faith-web-assets/general/resources/audio/2017-04-09_audio_god_uses_many_people_to_accomplish_his_purposes_green.mp3?mtime=20170518121412&focal=none, 10 people that God used to accomplish his purposes. If you struggle with trials and fears and sins and hassles and family problems, you qualify, as long as youre also growing in obedience. Christmas Blessings to You and all those you love! We talked about the patriarchs and how God used Noah as well. Throughout history, God has shown that He can use any part of His Creation to accomplish His purposes. Let Him use you in the hard times, as well as the good times. Nine were from broken homes, five were Roman Catholics. But now Isaac was sporting his lack of faith in Gods protection before this pagan king. God gave Samson the unique job of weakening the Philistine nation during the time of Israel's judgesa job He is not giving to people today. 3. Paul sends Tychichus to encourage the church and tell them all the details about being in prison in Rome. It was not an easy task, but God was with Moses all the way through his assignment, and God also gave Moses Aaron and his sister Miriam to help him out with the work. He used Pharoah to display His power and lead the children of Israel out of Egypt. To what mission has God called the church? When the dove returned to him in the evening, there in its beak was a freshly plucked olive leaf! 2. Mark is with Paul in Rome during his first imprisonmentand represents Paul to churches throughout the area of present day Turkey (Philemon 24; Col. 4:10). Paul encourages the church, that one of their own leaders, Epaphras greets them. God Did God use non-believers to help His people? . Jesus uses Justus who is committed to Jesus, despite the numbers. . Somehow weve picked up the notion that if God has called us to a place or to a certain ministry, we wont encounter any problems. Paul gives thanks for people like Ephaphrasservants of Christbrothers and sisters who pray with intense passion for youEpaphras encourages Paul. Jesus changes Dr. Luke from an educated skeptic to a faithful believer. Elisha curses the youths and God sends two angry bears out of the woods to kill them (2 Kings 23-25). (Genesis 12:1-3 NIV) The Lord had said to Abram, Go from your country, your people and your fathers household to the land I will show you. The next verse reports Isaac obedience. His plans are always for our souls ultimate good and hope-filled future. 2. Jesus changes Tychicus from an unfortunate Gentile to a fortunate servant. When John the Baptist saw Jesus coming for baptism, he spoke of Jesus as a . Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Counting My Blessings - at the Intersection of Faith and Life with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Rob Green joined the Faith Church staff in August, 2005. When Isaac finally moved back to Beersheba, where Abraham had lived, the Lord appeared to Isaac a second time, reconfirming His blessing and protection (26:24). The perfect example of this is Jesus' crucifixion: the murder of Christ was an evil act, but through it God redeemed His elect . Moses then knew that what he did had come out. God had a divine purpose for this young man. 1 God employs His immense power and wisdom to create the world in which He intends to work out His purposes. You may have never heard of Tychicus, he is not talked about much probably in your bible study, or over coffee, or his life described as the super-Christian. When the Lord first appeared to Isaac to tell him not to go to Egypt, the Lord emphasized Abrahams obedience (26:5). That sounds glorious, but all too often it involves hassles as mundane as digging wells and contending with aggressive people. He obeys. You may not be a preacher or teacher like Paul, but I know many in our family that have sympathetic hearts, that Jesus uses for caring for those suffering. Epaphras is the man who told Paul about the Colossian church because he brought the good news about Jesus Christ to the Colossians. Merry Christmas, Deb! Is there someone who has wounded you deeply? . (Genesis 15:1-4 NIV) After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: 2 But Abram said, Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit[c] my estate is Eliezer of Damascus? 3 And Abram said, You have given me no children; so a servant in my household will be my heir., 4 Then the word of the Lord came to him: This man will not be your heir, but a son who is your own flesh and blood will be your heir., (Genesis 15:13-16 NIV) Then the Lord said to him, Know for certain that for four hundred years your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own and that they will be enslaved and mistreated there.
Why Do Eggs Cause Inflammation, Denver County Workforce Center, Can't Edit Footer In Elementor, Articles W