As we looked at this past Sunday, the first way that the Enemy attempted to steer Jesus away from the will of God was to encourage Him to use His own divine power to meet His own needs. But we saw that Jesus remained faithful, fully trusting in God to take care of Him.
What does faithfulness look like?
But this raises some additional questions. Because, as human beings, are we not called to take care of our needs, whenever we are able to do so? The Scriptures encourage us to work and to carry our own burdens, so as not to be a burden to others (see 1 Thes 4:11-12, Gal 6:5). And so, when should we solely rely on God to care for us, and when should we take action to care for ourselves?
All our ability comes from God.
In general, we are called to live in a responsible way, caring for our own needs and the needs of our family. This is part of what it means to be human. But this does not mean that we are to be completely independent in every area of life, nor should we take full credit for what we are able to do. Even as we work hard to provide for our families, we are called to give gratitude to God for the gifts and the abilities that He has blessed us with (see Deut. 8:17-18).
Living in discernment and humility.
In all that we do, we are to seek God’s will for us. In many areas of life, God’s desire for us is made clear in Scripture. But when it comes to specific decisions, it may not always be so easy. And so, when things are not absolutely clear, we are simply invited to live as His children and to discover what His will for us is (see Eph 5:8-10). We are called to walk with God.
So, may we seek God’s will for us in Scripture, may we seek His will for us through prayer, and most importantly, may we seek His will for us through relationship. And may we trust that God is good, and that if we seek, we will find… and that if we knock, the door will be opened (see Matt 7:7-8).
On Sunday, July 17th, right after the Sunday Morning Service, we will be having our annual Mid-Year Membership Meeting. We will be reviewing our mid-year finances, as well as voting on the proposed changes to the Church By-Laws.
If you are a member of Eaglebrook Church, it is very important that you attend this meeting, so please mark your calendars, and plan to attend. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ray Blackburn, or any of the Elders.
For Those Viewing Online -- Facebook Live and YouTube
If you are not comfortable meeting indoors at this time, then please join us ONLINE this coming Sunday at 10:00am on either Facebook or YouTube as we Live-Stream our Sunday Morning Worship Service!
Deuteronomy 8:17-18 (NIV) -- You may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth…
Pray for Steve and Jani while they are away on vacation! :)
Eaglebrook Church ______ www.eaglebrookminocqua.org _______ 715-356-3313