Last Sunday's sermon title was Intentionally. I saw this message played out during the events of my week. The word is defined:
To purposely, willfully, or deliberately do something. My first point was: Know that God intentionally gives us what we need to live
for Him.
The Bible informs us - 14 Do not neglect the spiritual gift
within you, [that special endowment] which was intentionally bestowed on
you [by the Holy Spirit] through prophetic utterance when the elders laid their
hands on you [at your ordination]. 15 Practice and work
hard on these things; be absorbed in them [completely occupied in your
ministry], so that your progress will be evident to all. 16 Pay close attention to yourself [concentrate on
your personal development] and to your teaching; persevere in these things
[hold to them], for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself
and for those who hear you. 1 Timothy 4:14-16 (AMP)
So God gives us what we need - intentionally, and we are to "intentionally" use them (become experts) so that our relationship with Him is the best it can be. That's pretty straight forward, and most believers know this, even if we have a problem with the application.
Don't miss the last part of this teaching, "as you do this you will ensure salvation for yourself and for those who hear you". I saw this played out at my Dad's visitation and funeral. He applied this verse in a humble but consistent way every day. As he worked on his relationship with Christ - he brought others to Jesus! I heard testimony after testimony about through Dad's life's witness countless people found and grew in Christ! Well done Dad.
Take what God has given and become the best you in Jesus. Amen?