Sermon Notes, September 7, 2014
Rev.
Jan Sinozich
Pastor Jan’s message was titled “Moments
of Decision,” and was based on James 1:5-11.
Life is full of decisions; some we feel good about, some we regret. James talks about how to make decisions. He identifies the problem, writes a prescription,
and gives us God’s promise.
The problem is indecision; in other words, too many choices with
too little experience. Verse 8 says “a
double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.”
His emotions are in an uproar, making him and everyone around him
miserable. Unstable emotions make his
relationships unstable—lack of commitment can destroy a marriage, and hinder
job or parenting effectiveness. This instability affects his relationship with
God. Double-mindedness causes instability
in all your ways—emotionally, relationally, and spiritually.
The prescription? Get
wisdom. (v. 5-6) Wisdom is the practical application of knowledge, but you can’t
learn anything if you think you know it all.
Admit you need wisdom. (Psalm 111:10) Ask for what you need. Wisdom comes from God. (Proverbs 2:6) Anticipate God’s answer in faith. (v. 6)
Remember Peter walking on the water? He
got out of the boat and started walking to Jesus. But when he looked at his circumstance, he
started to sink. When the focus is on God,
in faith believing, we’re not solving problems—He is! He has more resources than we do; He
specializes in the impossible; believe in His ability to solve problems. Hebrews 11:6 tells us He rewards us for
believing in Him, seeking Him.
The promise: God will give it.
(James 1:9-11) He gives
continually, generously, without finding fault.
He invites us to ask because He loves to give—He’s pleased when we ask
for wisdom. God does not want to make
the decision for you—He gave you the freedom to choose. God’s wisdom is found in God’s Word: read,
study, memorize, and meditate on His book. (Psalm 119:105) There’s only one, the greatest, decision in
life: who or what is going to order the steps of your life? Only one choice will produce stability: the
most important decision you can ever make is to make Jesus Christ number one in
your life. Put Jesus first, and get in
tune with God’s plan for you. Decide for
Christ—continually. If He’s your choice,
He’ll provide.
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