It is said that those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it. This was certainly the case for many generations of people in ancient Israel. The repeated cycles of sin, chastisement, brokenness and then repentance found them often. It seemed that one generation often failed to learn from the mistakes of those who went before them. In this message we see the good, the bad and the ugly as recounted by a group of believers who had embraced the vision of God. In their words of praise to God, they reveal that at least one generation in Israel’s history clearly determined that they would learn from their parents’ mistakes. Because of this, they were unwilling to fumble the vision of God for their own generation. They achieved what their parents did not…and God was greatly glorified.
Unwilling to Fumble the Vision
Nehemiah 9:6-24
March 16, 2016 • Jeff Lyle
When God Says "No More"
April 27, 2016 • Jeff Lyle
While we are constantly comforted by the mercy and grace of God, let us never be mistaken to assume that there is not an active end to the access of that mercy and grace. God is seen throughout Scripture to repeatedly declare, “No more!” When He does this, all hope is lost for those who have not aligned with Him. This message highlights several places in Scripture wherein God refuses to let mankind proceed in a direction that goes against what He has decreed. From these examples, we are able to predict that our generation is due for the same resistance from God. The Lord shows no favoritism, and He will ultimately put down all rebellion. Wise people who are made aware of God’s ways will first examine their own hearts to repent of personal rebellion. Having done so, we also will be inclined to speak to those in our lives and remind them that they cannot afford to be on the wrong side of God’s next “No more!”
Dedication on Display
March 30, 2016 • Jeff Lyle
One area of vision which does not receive enough emphasis is the reality that vision never comes to fruition apart from dedicated stewardship of the vision given by God. God may open doors and offer opportunities, but if you and I do not remain dedicated until the vision comes to pass, it was nothing more than a daydream for us. Ideas are marvelous. Intentions are often helpful, but apart from activity they will always remain unfulfilled potential. This message harnesses the testimony of the Apostle Paul and motivates us to follow Christ in the same way as Paul did. Starting from the place of gratitude, we move forward into dedicated endurance through all of the difficulties, detorus and dsiappointments which come our way. In the end, for those who remain steadfast, God’s vision WILL be accomplished. When we trust in Him and do not quit, He will accomplish His satisfying purposes for our lives.