The Danger of Resentment: A Biblical Warning and Pathway to Freedom

Introduction

Resentment is a silent poison that eats away at the soul. It begins as a small seed of hurt, disappointment, or injustice, but if left unchecked, it grows into bitterness, anger, and even hatred. Jesus and the Bible repeatedly warn us about the dangers of holding onto resentment, urging us instead to forgive, release offenses, and walk in love.

In this sermon, we will explore:

1. What the Bible Says About Resentment

2. The Destructive Power of Unforgiveness

3. Jesus’ Teachings on Forgiveness

4. How to Overcome Resentment and Walk in Freedom

1. What the Bible Says About Resentment

Resentment is a deep-seated feeling of bitterness or indignation over a perceived wrong. The Bible warns against it in multiple places:

• Hebrews 12:15 – "See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many."

  • A "bitter root" refers to unresolved anger that festers and spreads, affecting not just the individual but others around them.

• Ephesians 4:31-32 – "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

  • Resentment is listed alongside rage, anger, and malice—emotions that corrupt the heart.

• Proverbs 14:10 – "Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can share its joy."

  • Bitterness isolates us, making us prisoners of our own emotions.

Resentment is dangerous because it distorts our perception, hardens our hearts, and separates us from God’s peace.

2. The Destructive Power of Unforgiveness

Holding onto resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. It doesn’t punish the offender—it destroys us.

A. Resentment Harms Our Relationship with God

• Matthew 6:14-15 – "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."

  • Unforgiveness hinders our own forgiveness before God.

• Mark 11:25 – "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."

  • Jesus links our forgiveness of others with our ability to receive God’s forgiveness.

B. Resentment Poisons Our Hearts and Relationships

• 1 John 4:20 – "Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen."

  • Hatred and resentment contradict the love of God.

• James 3:14-16 – "But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such 'wisdom' does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice."

  • Bitterness opens the door to demonic influence and chaos.

C. Resentment Leads to Physical and Emotional Suffering

Medical studies confirm that unforgiveness contributes to stress, high blood pressure, anxiety, and depression. The Bible also acknowledges this:

• Proverbs 17:22 – "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."

  • Bitterness drains life and joy.

3. Jesus’ Teachings on Forgiveness

Jesus not only preached forgiveness—He lived it. Even on the cross, He prayed for His enemies:

• Luke 23:34 – "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."

  • If Jesus could forgive those who crucified Him, how much more should we forgive those who hurt us?

A. The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant (Matthew 18:21-35)

Peter asked Jesus, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus responded, "Not seven times, but seventy-seven times."

He then told a parable about a servant who was forgiven a massive debt by his master but refused to forgive a small debt owed to him. The master, upon hearing this, threw the unforgiving servant into prison.

The lesson?

• God has forgiven us an immeasurable debt through Christ.

• When we refuse to forgive others, we imprison ourselves in bitterness.

B. Love Your Enemies (Matthew 5:43-48)

Jesus commanded:

• "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."

• "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."

Forgiveness is not optional—it is a requirement for spiritual maturity.

4. How to Overcome Resentment and Walk in Freedom

If you’re struggling with resentment, here are biblical steps to break free:

A. Acknowledge the Hurt and Bring It to God

• Psalm 62:8 – "Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge."

  • Tell God exactly how you feel. He can handle your anger and pain.

B. Choose to Forgive—Even If You Don’t Feel Like It

• Forgiveness is not excusing the wrong but releasing the right to revenge.

• Colossians 3:13 – "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

C. Pray for Those Who Hurt You

• Matthew 5:44 – "Pray for those who persecute you."

  • Prayer softens our hearts and breaks the power of resentment.

D. Let Go and Trust God’s Justice

• Romans 12:19 – "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord."

  • God sees every injustice and will judge rightly.

E. Walk in Love and Reconciliation

• Romans 12:18 – "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."

  • Seek reconciliation where possible, but even if the other person refuses, maintain a heart of peace.

Conclusion: The Freedom of Forgiveness

Resentment is a prison, but forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door. Jesus calls us to let go of bitterness and embrace His grace.

• Are you holding onto resentment today?

• Is there someone you need to forgive?

Don’t let bitterness steal your joy, your health, or your relationship with God. Choose forgiveness today and experience the freedom Christ offers.

Prayer:
"Lord, I confess any resentment in my heart. Help me to forgive as You have forgiven me. Heal my wounds and fill me with Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

May we walk in the freedom of forgiveness, releasing others and receiving God’s peace in return.

Fan Into Flame the Gift of God

Text: "That is why I remind you to fan into flame the gracious gift of God, [that inner fire—the special endowment] which is in you through the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination]." (2 Timothy 1:6, AMP)

Introduction

The Apostle Paul, writing to his spiritual son Timothy, encourages him to stir up the gift of God within him. This exhortation is not just for Timothy but for every believer who has received a divine calling. God has deposited something powerful inside each of us—a gift, an anointing, a purpose. But like embers in a fire, if we do not tend to it, it can grow dim.

Today, we will explore:

1. The Nature of God’s Gift – What is this gift?

2. The Need to Fan It Into Flame – Why must we stir it up?

3. The Hindrances to the Flame – What quenches the fire?

4. How to Keep the Fire Burning – Practical steps to maintain spiritual passion.

1. The Nature of God’s Gift

Paul refers to a "gracious gift of God" (charisma) given to Timothy through the laying on of hands. This was likely a spiritual gift for ministry—perhaps preaching, teaching, leadership, or prophecy. But beyond Timothy, every believer has received something from God:

• Spiritual Gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7-11) – Wisdom, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, tongues, interpretation.

• Natural Talents Enhanced by Grace – Skills used for God’s glory (Exodus 31:3 – Bezalel filled with the Spirit for craftsmanship).

• The Inner Fire of Calling – A divine burden, a holy discontent, a passion for God’s work.

This gift is gracious—not earned but given. It is powerful—capable of transforming lives. And it is personal—tailored to your assignment in the Kingdom.

Question: Have you identified your God-given gift? Are you using it for His glory?

2. The Need to Fan It Into Flame

Paul says, "Fan into flame…" Fire, if unattended, fades. Spiritual passion can grow cold due to neglect, discouragement, or sin.

Why Must We Stir It Up?

• Because Gifts Can Lie Dormant (1 Timothy 4:14) – Timothy needed reminding; so do we.

• Because the World Tries to Extinguish It – Persecution, distractions, and opposition seek to quench our zeal.

• Because the Harvest Demands It (Matthew 9:37-38) – Lost souls need the fire of God in us.

Illustration: A campfire left untended will eventually die. But when stirred, the embers ignite afresh. Similarly, we must intentionally cultivate our spiritual gifts through prayer, study, and obedience.

3. The Hindrances to the Flame

Why do many believers lose their spiritual fire?

A. Fear and Timidity (2 Timothy 1:7)

Timothy may have been shrinking back due to persecution. Fear paralyzes our gifts.

B. Neglect and Laziness

• Spiritual Sloth – Not praying, not reading the Word, skipping fellowship.

• Procrastination – Delaying obedience to God’s call.

C. Sin and Unrepentance

• Unconfessed sin blocks the flow of the Spirit (Psalm 66:18).

• Compromise with the world dampens passion.

D. Comparison and Discouragement

• Feeling "less gifted" than others can make us bury our talents (Matthew 25:25).

Question: What is suffocating your flame today? Fear? Busyness? Sin?

4. How to Keep the Fire Burning

How do we fan the flame?

A. Remember Your Calling (2 Timothy 1:6)

• Revisit your spiritual milestones—salvation, baptism, moments of anointing.

• Remember who commissioned you (God, not man).

B. Stay in the Word and Prayer

• The Word Fuels Fire (Jeremiah 20:9 – "His word was in my heart like a burning fire").

• Prayer Rekindles Passion (Jude 1:20 – "Pray in the Holy Spirit").

C. Step Out in Faith

• Use your gift, even if imperfectly.

• Like Peter walking on water, action sustains faith.

D. Surround Yourself with Fire-Carriers

• Paul mentored Timothy. Who is speaking into your life?

• Fellowship with passionate believers (Proverbs 27:17 – "Iron sharpens iron").

E. Guard Against Spiritual Drowsiness

• Avoid complacency (Revelation 3:15-16 – "Lukewarm").

• Stay alert (1 Peter 5:8).

Conclusion: A Call to Reignite

God has placed a fire in you—not for your glory, but for His Kingdom. Maybe yours has dwindled to embers. Today, He is saying:

• Stir it up! Pray like you mean it.

• Step out! Preach, teach, serve, give—do something.

• Stay close to the Fire-Giver! Abide in Christ (John 15:5).

Final Challenge:

• Identify one way you will fan your flame this week (e.g., recommit to prayer, join a ministry, repent of sin).

• Don’t let your gift die unused. The world needs your fire!

"Fan into flame the gift of God!" Let it burn brightly for Jesus.

Amen.

job 

Sermon on Proverbs 21:26: A Call Against Greed and the Love of Money

Introduction
The Bible is rich with wisdom that helps us navigate the complexities of life, and one of the most profound areas it speaks to is our relationship with money and possessions. Proverbs 21:26 says, "All day long he craves greedily, but the righteous gives and does not hold back." This verse serves as a stark contrast between two types of people: the greedy, who pursue wealth endlessly, and the righteous, who understand that true wealth is not in accumulating material possessions but in giving and sharing with others.
The subject of greed, especially in regard to money, is one that is ever-relevant in our modern world. With a global society that places immense value on wealth, success, and material achievement, this verse stands as a timeless reminder of how the love of money can corrupt and how the righteous are called to live differently.
In this sermon, we will explore the implications of Proverbs 21:26, the dangers of greed, and how we can cultivate a righteous attitude towards money and possessions in our lives.
1. The Nature of Greed
The opening part of Proverbs 21:26 states, "All day long he craves greedily." This image of a person whose desires are insatiable, constantly longing for more, highlights the nature of greed. Greed is an unrelenting desire for more—more money, more possessions, more power, more status. The person described here is never satisfied, always wanting something beyond what they have. This craving is not just for survival or basic needs but for excess, luxury, and indulgence.
We see this kind of greed play out in society today. People are constantly chasing after the next big thing, whether it's the latest gadget, the most expensive car, or the biggest house. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with enjoying the blessings that God provides, greed crosses a dangerous line when the desire for wealth becomes a driving force in our lives. It causes us to focus on ourselves, our wants, and our ambitions, to the detriment of others and our spiritual health.
Greed leads us to place our hope in material wealth, which is fleeting and temporary. The apostle Paul warns in 1 Timothy 6:9-10, "But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all evil." The love of money can ensnare us in ways we never expected. What starts as a harmless desire for more can quickly escalate into a deep-seated idol that controls our actions and decisions.
2. The Dangers of Greed
The consequences of greed are both spiritual and practical. Proverbs 21:26 paints a clear picture of a person who craves endlessly, yet never finds satisfaction. They are stuck in a cycle of dissatisfaction that only deepens as they accumulate more. Greed leads to spiritual emptiness, as it creates a false sense of fulfillment. This endless pursuit of wealth, status, and material gain can make us forget what truly matters: our relationship with God and with others.
Greed also leads to broken relationships. When money becomes an idol in our lives, it often comes at the expense of our relationships with family, friends, and even fellow believers. We become so consumed with accumulating wealth that we neglect those around us. We may start to view others as obstacles to our success rather than as people to love and care for. This is a dangerous path because the Bible teaches that love for one another is central to the Christian life. Jesus Himself said in John 13:34-35, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
Greed can also result in financial ruin. While wealth can be a blessing, the Bible warns that wealth can be dangerous if mismanaged. The pursuit of wealth can lead us to make unwise financial decisions, engage in unethical business practices, or become enslaved to debt. Proverbs 22:7 says, "The borrower is the slave of the lender," illustrating how financial bondage can trap us if we are driven by greed. When our lives are consumed with the desire for money, we often make decisions that are not aligned with God's wisdom, leading to consequences that affect our financial stability and peace of mind.
3. The Call to Righteousness
In contrast to the greedy person, Proverbs 21:26 also describes the righteous: "but the righteous gives and does not hold back." This statement highlights the attitude of generosity that is characteristic of those who are in right relationship with God. Rather than hoarding their wealth or obsessively pursuing more, the righteous understand that their possessions are not for their own selfish gain but are meant to be shared for the benefit of others.
The righteous person recognizes that everything they have is a gift from God and that they are stewards of these gifts. In 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Paul advises the rich in this way: "As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life."
The righteous are called to be generous. They recognize that wealth is not an end in itself but a tool to be used for God's purposes. They are not controlled by their possessions but use them to bless others. This is a reflection of God's own nature, as He is a generous and giving God. Jesus Himself embodied generosity throughout His life, from healing the sick to laying down His life for the salvation of humanity.
As believers, we are called to follow Christ's example of generosity, which is rooted in love and selflessness. Acts 20:35 reminds us, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." This is the essence of true wealth: the ability to give freely, not out of obligation but out of a heart that understands the richness of God’s grace.
4. How to Cultivate a Righteous Attitude Towards Money
If we are to live according to Proverbs 21:26, we must cultivate an attitude of generosity and a mindset that values people and relationships over material possessions. Here are a few practical ways we can do this:
Recognize the fleeting nature of wealth: Understand that money and possessions are temporary and cannot bring lasting fulfillment. Jesus said in Matthew 6:19-21, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven..." This perspective helps us prioritize eternal values over temporary material gain.
Practice contentment: Learn to be content with what we have. In Philippians 4:11-12, Paul shares his secret to contentment: "I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound." Contentment frees us from the endless pursuit of more and helps us focus on what really matters.
Live generously: Look for opportunities to give. Generosity is not just about giving money but also time, resources, and love. Acts of kindness and generosity reflect the heart of God and serve as a testimony to others of His goodness and provision.
Guard against greed: Be vigilant about the dangers of greed. Regularly examine your heart and ask God to reveal any areas where you may be tempted to place your hope in wealth rather than in Him. Prayer and accountability with fellow believers can help keep us grounded in the truth.
Conclusion
Proverbs 21:26 serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of greed and the importance of living a life marked by generosity and righteousness. In a world that constantly pressures us to accumulate more, we are called to be different— to focus not on gaining more wealth but on giving generously, trusting that God is our ultimate provider. Let us strive to live in a way that honors God, reflecting His generosity and love to the world around us. May we be people who seek His Kingdom first, knowing that everything else will fall into place when we do.

# **"Where True Security Lies: Trusting God Over Money and Strength"**
**Scripture:** *Psalm 20:7 (NIV)*
*"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God."*
## **Introduction**
We live in a world that constantly tells us:
- **"Secure your future—save more, invest more!"**
- **"Rely on your strength, your skills, your hustle!"**
- **"Money is power; wealth is safety."**
But the Bible presents a radically different message:
*"Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them."* (Psalm 62:10).
Today, we will explore why **true security is not found in money or human strength, but in the Lord alone.** We will examine:
1. **The Deception of Trusting in Wealth and Human Strength**
2. **The Danger of Self-Sufficiency**
3. **The Divine Assurance of Trusting in God**
---
## **1. The Deception of Trusting in Wealth and Human Strength**
### **A. Money Promises Security but Cannot Deliver**
- Many believe that **if they just had more money**, they would be free from worry.
- But Scripture warns:
- *"Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf."* (Proverbs 11:28).
- *"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil."* (1 Timothy 6:10).
- **Money can disappear in an instant**—through economic crashes, theft, or unexpected crises (James 5:1-3).
### **B. Human Strength is Limited**
- We admire those who are **self-made**, but the Bible reminds us:
- *"The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord."* (Proverbs 21:31).
- *"Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain."* (Psalm 127:1).
- **No amount of human effort can guarantee success, health, or lasting peace.**
### **C. Biblical Examples of Failed Trust in Wealth and Power**
1. **The Rich Fool (Luke 12:16-21)** – He stored up wealth but died unprepared for eternity.
2. **King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:30-33)** – Boasted in his own power, but was humbled by God.
3. **The Rich Young Ruler (Mark 10:17-22)** – Chose money over Jesus and walked away sorrowful.
**Lesson:** When we trust in money or strength, we set ourselves up for disappointment.
---
## **2. The Danger of Self-Sufficiency**
### **A. The Pride of "I Don’t Need God"**
- Our culture celebrates independence, but the Bible warns:
- *"Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."* (Proverbs 16:18).
- *"Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh."* (Jeremiah 17:5).
- **Self-sufficiency leads to spiritual poverty.**
### **B. The Illusion of Control**
- We make plans, save money, and build careers—**but we cannot control tomorrow.**
- *"Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city…’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow!"* (James 4:13-14).
- **Only God holds the future.**
### **C. The Test of Trials**
- When crisis hits—job loss, illness, or tragedy—**money and strength often fail.**
- *"But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it."* (1 Timothy 6:6-7).
- **True security is found in what cannot be taken away—God’s promises.**
---
## **3. The Divine Assurance of Trusting in God**
### **A. God is Our Provider**
- *"And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."* (Philippians 4:19).
- **Jehovah Jireh**—the Lord who provides (Genesis 22:14).
- **Illustration:** Elijah and the widow (1 Kings 17)—when human resources ran out, God supplied supernaturally.
### **B. God is Our Protector**
- *"The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge."* (Psalm 18:2).
- **No bank account, job, or government can offer the security of God’s covering.**
### **C. God is Our Strength**
- *"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak."* (Isaiah 40:29).
- **When we are weak, He is strong** (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).
### **D. Biblical Examples of Those Who Trusted God Alone**
1. **David vs. Goliath (1 Samuel 17)** – Human logic said David would lose, but God gave victory.
2. **The Widow’s Oil (2 Kings 4:1-7)** – When finances were gone, God multiplied what she had.
3. **Jesus and the Disciples (Matthew 6:25-34)** – "Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be given to you."
---
## **Conclusion: Where Will You Place Your Trust?**
The world says:
- **"Save, invest, rely on yourself."**
But God says:
- **"Trust in Me with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding."** (Proverbs 3:5).
### **A Call to Action:**
1. **Repent of self-reliance** – Confess any trust in money or strength over God.
2. **Shift your focus** – Seek God’s kingdom first (Matthew 6:33).
3. **Live by faith** – Depend on Him daily, not just when in crisis.
**Prayer:**
*"Lord, forgive me for trusting in money, my own strength, or worldly security. Today, I choose to put my hope in You alone. You are my Provider, my Protector, and my Strength. Help me to walk in faith, not fear. In Jesus’ name, Amen."*
---
**Final Encouragement:**
*"Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you."* (1 Peter 5:7).
No matter what you face—financial stress, health struggles, or uncertainty—**God is your unshakable foundation.**
**"Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever."** (Psalm 125:1).
May we be a people who live in **true security—the kind that only comes from God.**

Kingdom Mindset vs. Self Mindset: Serving God's Kingdom vs. Living for Self
Text: Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)
"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."
Introduction
Every believer faces a daily battle between two mindsets: the Kingdom Mindset and the Self Mindset. The Kingdom Mindset is centered on serving God's purpose, advancing His kingdom, and living according to His righteousness. The Self Mindset, on the other hand, is focused on personal ambition, comfort, and desires.
Jesus calls us to deny ourselves and follow Him (Luke 9:23), but in a world that promotes self-centered living, how do we truly embrace the Kingdom Mindset? Today, we will explore the characteristics of these two mindsets, the dangers of living for self, and the rewards of seeking first God’s kingdom.
I. The Difference Between the Kingdom Mindset and the Self Mindset
A. The Kingdom Mindset
Seeking God First – A kingdom-minded person prioritizes God in everything. Matthew 6:33 tells us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.
Servanthood – Jesus said, “Whoever desires to be great among you, let him be your servant” (Matthew 20:26). Serving God’s kingdom requires humility.
Eternal Perspective – Those with a Kingdom Mindset focus on storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth (Matthew 6:19-20).
Faith in God’s Provision – Kingdom-minded people trust God for their needs, knowing that He provides as they walk in obedience (Philippians 4:19).
Living by the Spirit – Galatians 5:16 urges us to walk in the Spirit so that we do not fulfill the lust of the flesh. A Kingdom Mindset is Spirit-led, not flesh-driven.
B. The Self Mindset
Seeking Personal Gain First – A self-focused life puts personal desires and ambitions above God’s will (James 4:3).
Self-Promotion – Instead of serving others, a self-centered person seeks their own success and recognition (Philippians 2:3).
Temporary Focus – Those with a Self Mindset prioritize earthly wealth, comfort, and status, forgetting that life is fleeting (Luke 12:16-21).
Reliance on Self – Instead of trusting in God’s provision, a self-focused person depends on their own efforts, often leading to worry and stress (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Living by the Flesh – The flesh leads to selfish desires, pride, and disobedience to God’s will (Romans 8:5-8).
II. The Dangers of Living for Self
While the world encourages self-focus, the Bible warns of the dangers of living only for oneself.
A. Separation from God
Proverbs 14:12 says, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” Living for self leads away from God’s presence and guidance.
B. Dissatisfaction and Emptiness
Solomon, the wisest and richest king, pursued wealth, pleasure, and success, yet he concluded: “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 1:2). A life apart from God leaves a void that nothing can fill.
C. Vulnerability to the Enemy
When we live for self, we become easy targets for Satan’s deception. 1 Peter 5:8 warns us that the enemy “walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”
D. Eternal Consequences
Jesus spoke of a man who built bigger barns to store his wealth but was called a fool because he did not prepare for eternity (Luke 12:20-21). Living for self without regard for God’s kingdom leads to spiritual loss.
III. The Call to Serve God’s Kingdom
A. Jesus as Our Example
Jesus lived with a Kingdom Mindset. He said, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work” (John 4:34). His entire life was about serving the Father’s will, not seeking personal comfort.
Philippians 2:5-8 describes how Jesus humbled Himself to the point of death on a cross. If Christ, the Son of God, came to serve, how much more should we?
B. The Cost of Following Jesus
Luke 9:23 – “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”
Denying self means surrendering our plans to God.
Taking up our cross daily means living sacrificially for His glory.
C. Serving in the Body of Christ
Romans 12:4-5 teaches that we are all part of the body of Christ. We serve God’s kingdom by using our gifts for His glory—whether through teaching, giving, leading, or acts of kindness.
1 Peter 4:10 – “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”
D. Kingdom-Minded Living in Practical Ways
Evangelism – Sharing the gospel and making disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).
Generosity – Using our resources to bless others (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
Loving Others – Serving with love and compassion (John 13:34-35).
Holiness – Living set apart for God (1 Peter 1:15-16).
IV. The Rewards of a Kingdom Mindset
A. Intimacy with God
James 4:8 – “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” When we seek God’s kingdom, we experience a deeper relationship with Him.
B. Divine Provision
Matthew 6:33 promises that when we prioritize God, He meets our needs.
C. Fulfillment and Joy
Psalm 16:11 – “In Your presence is fullness of joy.” True joy is found in serving God, not in selfish pursuits.
D. Eternal Rewards
Jesus said in Matthew 25:21, “Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” What greater reward than to hear those words from our King?
Conclusion: Choosing the Kingdom Mindset
The choice is clear:
The Self Mindset leads to emptiness, sin, and separation from God.
The Kingdom Mindset leads to purpose, fulfillment, and eternal rewards.
Will you choose to seek first God’s kingdom? Will you surrender your plans and desires for His greater purpose?
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus and commit to living with a Kingdom Mindset, serving His purposes above all else.

Jesus 

 

Your words evoke vivid imagery of divine sovereignty and human frailty, drawing from biblical themes of nations in turmoil and God's supremacy over earthly rulers. The phrase "God laughs in heaven" echoes Psalm 2:4, where the Lord mocks the futile schemes of kings who rebel against His authority:

"He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord holds them in derision."

This scripture underscores God’s ultimate power over human empires, no matter how mighty they seem. The "sermon" you mention could symbolize prophetic warnings (like those in Isaiah 40:15-17) about the fleeting pride of nations.

If you're crafting a poem, sermon, or song, you might expand on:

• Human arrogance vs. divine judgment (e.g., Babel in Genesis 11, or Nebuchadnezzar’s humbling in Daniel 4).

• Hope amid chaos—God’s laughter isn’t indifference but assurance that tyranny won’t last (see Psalm 37:12-13).

• A call to wisdom—like Solomon’s plea for leaders to heed God (Proverbs 21:1).

A Sermon for Such a Time as This: How Christians Should Live in Troubled Times

Text: "Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil." — Ephesians 5:15-16 (NASB)

Introduction: A World in Chaos

We live in tumultuous times—wars, political strife, moral decay, and societal divisions dominate the headlines. Nations rise against nations (Matthew 24:7), leaders make reckless decisions, and many people live in fear. Yet, in the midst of this, Scripture reminds us that "God sits in the heavens and laughs" (Psalm 2:4)—not in mockery of human suffering, but in sovereign authority over the futile pride of man.

As Christians, how should we respond? Do we panic? Do we retreat? Do we fight with worldly weapons? No. We are called to live with kingdom perspective—anchored in truth, shining in darkness, and preparing for Christ’s return.

I. Do Not Fear—God Is Still on the Throne

A. Remember His Sovereignty

• Psalm 46:1-3 – "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear..."

• Isaiah 41:10 – "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God."

In times of uncertainty, our first reaction must not be fear but faith. The same God who calmed the storm for the disciples (Mark 4:39) is still in control. Governments may fail, economies may collapse, but "the Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His sovereignty rules over all" (Psalm 103:19).

B. Reject Conspiracy Mentality & Panic

Many Christians today are consumed by fear-driven news cycles, conspiracy theories, and doomsday predictions. While we must be discerning (1 John 4:1), we must not be paralyzed by fear.

• 2 Timothy 1:7 – "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind."

• Matthew 6:34 – "Do not worry about tomorrow..."

Instead of obsessing over the latest crisis, we should focus on prayer, evangelism, and faithful living.

II. Stand Firm in Truth—Do Not Compromise

A. Hold Fast to Biblical Morality

Society is rapidly rejecting God’s design—gender confusion, abortion, greed, and persecution of believers are increasing. But we must not bend.

• Romans 12:2 – "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

• Jude 1:3 – "Contend earnestly for the faith."

We must lovingly but firmly uphold God’s Word, even when it’s unpopular.

B. Be Discerning—Test Everything

• 1 Thessalonians 5:21 – "Test all things; hold fast to what is good."

• Acts 17:11 – The Bereans examined Scripture daily.

Not every preacher, politician, or trend aligns with God’s truth. We must be rooted in Scripture, not swayed by emotionalism or false teachings.

III. Be Light in the Darkness—Live on Mission

A. Love Your Neighbor

In a divided world, Christians must be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9) and show Christ’s love.

• Matthew 5:14-16 – "You are the light of the world... let your light shine."

• Galatians 6:10 – "Do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the household of faith."

Instead of hatred toward opponents, we must pray for them (Matthew 5:44) and serve as ambassadors of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:20).

B. Share the Gospel Urgently

These chaotic times are an opportunity for evangelism.

• Mark 16:15 – "Go into all the world and preach the gospel."

• 1 Peter 3:15 – "Always be ready to give an answer for the hope that is in you."

People are searching for hope—we must point them to Jesus.

IV. Prepare for the End—Live with Eternal Perspective

A. Watch for Christ’s Return

• Matthew 24:42 – "Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming."

• Titus 2:13 – "Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ."

We must live with urgency, knowing that Christ could return at any moment.

B. Store Up Treasures in Heaven

• Matthew 6:19-20 – "Do not store up treasures on earth... but in heaven."

• Colossians 3:2 – "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."

In uncertain economic times, we must invest in what lasts—God’s Kingdom.

Conclusion: How Then Shall We Live?

1. Trust God, not fear.

2. Stand firm in truth, not compromise.

3. Shine as light, not hide.

4. Live for eternity, not just today.

The world may rage, but our hope is secure in Christ. Let us walk wisely, redeem the time, and be found faithful when He returns.

Closing Prayer:
"Lord, in these troubled times, fix our eyes on You. Help us to live with courage, love, and wisdom, shining Your light until You come. Amen."