How you see Jesus will determine how you celebrate His arrival.

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. Isaiah 9:1-7(NIV)

And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:1-7(NIV)

Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. Isaiah 9:1-7(NIV)

Message title: Power for the Impossible

What is the impossible thing in your life right now?

"I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me? Jeremiah 32:27 (NIV)

In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you." Luke 1:26-38 (NIV)

Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. Luke 1:26-38 (NIV)

But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob's descendants forever; his kingdom will never end." Luke 1:26-38 (NIV)

"How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?" Luke 1:26-38 (NIV)

The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Luke 1:26-38 (NIV)

Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. Luke 1:26-38 (NIV)

For no word from God will ever fail." Luke 1:26-38 (NIV)

"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May your word to me be fulfilled." Then the angel left her. Luke 1:26-38 (NIV)

1. Impossible DREAMS

What am I believing God for that seems out of reach for me?

God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. Ephesians 3:20-21 (MSG)

Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4 (NIV)

If you don't have an impossible dream, than you don't need a Mighty God.

1. Impossible PAIN

If I am not hurting, I am not growing.

God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 (NLT)

For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 (NLT)

"God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: it is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world." – C.S. Lewis

Each time he said, "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness." So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NLT)

1. Impossible QUESTIONS

God is GREATER than your GREATEST questions.

How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me? Psalm 13:1-6 (NIV)

Look on me and answer, Lord my God. Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death, and my enemy will say, "I have overcome him," and my foes will rejoice when I fall. Psalm 13:1-6 (NIV)

But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord's praise, for he has been good to me. Psalm 13:1-6 (NIV)

God can handle your questions, but your FAITH won't allow them to lead you.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

1. Impossible IMPERFECTIONS

Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 (NIV)

But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 (NIV)

God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 (NIV)

And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. Philippians 1:6 (NLT)

Message Title: Lift Your Head

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:1-4 (NIV)

This Christmas season we don't need change of situation… as much as we need a change of perspective.

1. People LIVING in FEAR

Do not call conspiracy everything this people calls a conspiracy; do not fear what they fear, and do not dread it. The Lord Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy, he is the one you are to fear… Isaiah 8:12-22 (NIV)

Distressed and hungry, they will roam through the land; when they are famished, they will become enraged and, looking upward, will curse their king and their God. Isaiah 8:12-22 (NIV)

Then they will look toward the earth and see only distress and darkness and fearful gloom, and they will be thrust into utter darkness. Isaiah 8:12-22 (NIV)

1. People LOST in DARKNESS

Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress… Isaiah 9:1-3 (NIV)

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. Isaiah 9:1-3 (NIV)

You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder. Isaiah 9:1-3 (NIV)

1. People EXHAUSTED from the FIGHT

For as in the day of Midian's defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. Isaiah 9:4-5 (NIV)

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. Isaiah 9:1-7(NIV)

And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:1-7(NIV)

Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. Isaiah 9:1-7(NIV)

1. COMFORT in your circumstance.

…The Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-5(NIV)

For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ. 2 Corinthians 1:3-5(NIV)

Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT)

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

1. PERSPECTIVE on your responsibility.

We want God to change our CIRCUMSTANCES… God wants to change US.

Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God's right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. Colossians 3:1-10 (NLT)

For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory. Colossians 3:1-10 (NLT)

So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you… Colossians 3:1-10 (NLT)

Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. Colossians 3:1-10 (NLT)

1. HOPE for your tomorrow.

…In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you... 1 Peter 1:3-4 (NIV)

When eternity is our perspective… our circumstances aren't permanent.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (NIV)

I am doing better than I think I am, and God is doing more than I think He is.

"The Holy Spirit"

Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?" Acts 2:12-17 (NIV)

Some, however, made fun of them and said, "They have had too much wine." Acts 2:12-17 (NIV)

Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. Acts 2:12-17 (NIV)

These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It's only nine in the morning! Acts 2:12-17 (NIV)

No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: "'In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people… Acts 2:12-17 (NIV)

He is not AN IT.

How you see Him will determine how you relate to Him.

He is not WEIRD.

Don't make your decisions about God based on the behavior of people.

1. He is my INNER VOICE.

And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God's righteousness, and of the coming judgment. John 16:8 (NLT)

Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, "Jesus be cursed," and no one can say, "Jesus is Lord," except by the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:3 (NIV)

2. He is my TEACHER.

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. John 14:26 (NIV)

But you have received the Holy Spirit, and he lives within you, so you don't need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know, and what he teaches is true—it is not a lie. So just as he has taught you, remain in fellowship with Christ. 1 John 2:27 (NLT)

3. He is my GUIDE.

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. John 16:13 (NIV)

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:21 (NIV)

4. He is my FRIEND.

And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever… John 14:16 (NIV)

The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you. 2 Corinthians 13:14 (MSG)

Don't grieve God. Don't break his heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of your life, making you fit for himself. Don't take such a gift for granted. Ephesians 4:30 (MSG)

1. Holy Spirit SHOW ME.

I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. Ezekiel 36:26-27 (NIV)

Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)

You don't need me telling what is right and wrong… you need to lean into what HE is trying to show you.

2. Holy Spirit CHANGE ME.

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 (NLT)

So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 (NLT)

I'm not where I want to be, but I'm not where I used to be.

3. Holy Spirit FILL ME.

Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit… Ephesians 5:18 (NLT)

Being filled with the Spirit doesn't make me better than you… it makes me better than me.

"Spiritual Warfare"

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV)

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10 (NIV)

We have to stop looking at the SPIRITUAL through the LENS of NATURAL… and start looking at the NATURAL through the LENS of the SPIRITUAL.

When we understand the SPIRITUAL fight… it helps us make more sense of the NATURAL fight.

Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. Matthew 4:1-11 (NIV)

The tempter came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread." Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.' Matthew 4:1-11 (NIV)

Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. "If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down. For it is written: Matthew 4:1-11 (NIV)

"'He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.' Matthew 4:1-11 (NIV)

Jesus answered him, "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.' Matthew 4:1-11 (NIV)

Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. "All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me." Matthew 4:1-11 (NIV)

Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.' Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him. Matthew 4:1-11 (NIV)

3 things you have to know about the Spiritual Fight:

1. You have to KNOW it's coming.

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Ephesians 6:13 (NIV)

1. You have to KNOW that it will typically follow significant spiritual moments.
2. You have to know that the enemy thrives in ISOLATION and works in COUNTERFEITS.

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV)

Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV)

In the spiritual fight, Isolation is his strategy and counterfeits are his weapons.

Counterfeit GOOD

Counterfeit TRUTH

The main objective of spiritual attack is to get us to doubt who WE are… and who GOD is.

Counterfeit WORSHIP

1. You can WORRY

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

1. You can get WEIRD
2. You can WORSHIP
3. You can follow the WORD

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV)

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV)

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV)

In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV)

Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV)

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people. Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV).

Big Idea: The Spiritual Fight is very real… but if we aware of it… and prepared for it… not matter the circumstances… it won't take us out.

…Having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. Colossians 2:14-16 (NIV)

And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. Colossians 2:14-16 (NIV)

Leaving that place, Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. A Canaanite woman from that vicinity came to him, crying out, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is demon-possessed and suffering terribly." Matthew 15:21-26 (NIV)

Jesus did not answer a word. So his disciples came to him and urged him, "Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us." He answered, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel." The woman came and knelt before him. "Lord, help me!" she said. He replied, "It is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to the dogs." Matthew 15:21-26 (NIV)

And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. Matthew 24:10-11 (KJV)

Many will be offended

And shall betray one another

A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle. Proverbs 18:19 (KJV)

And shall Hate one another

And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.

The woman came and knelt before him. "Lord, help me!" she said. He replied, "It is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to the dogs." "Yes it is, Lord," she said. "Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master's table." Matthew 15:25-27 (NIV)

Then Jesus said to her, "Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted." And her daughter was healed at that moment. Matthew 15:28 (NIV)

"HOW DO I HANDLE STRESS?"

Stress stats from the AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF STRESS:

44% of Americans feel more stressed than they did 5 years ago

1 in 5 Americans experience EXTREME stress (hands shaking, heart palpitations, depression)

60% of all disease and illness is caused by stress.

3 out of 4 doctors visits are for stress related ailments.

Stress increases the risk of heart attack by 25% and a stroke by 50%.

Stress related ailments cost the nation $300 Billion a year in medical bills and lost productivity

What causes our stress?

Money

Time

Relationships

Conflict

I'm married

I'm not married

Job

Deadlines

Parenting

Expectations of others

The next President of the United States

The Indianapolis Colts Coaching staff

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33 (NIV)

God never promised to TAKE AWAY your trouble, but to give you PEACE IN THE MIDST of your trouble.

The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all… Psalm 34:19 (NIV)

Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. Psalm 62:5-10 (NIV)

My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. (Selah) Psalm 62:5-10 (NIV)

Surely the lowborn are but a breath, the highborn are but a lie. If weighed on a balance, they are nothing; together they are only a breath. Psalm 62:5-10 (NIV) Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them. Psalm 62:5-10 (NIV)

1. Time

Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered— how fleeting my life is. Psalm 39:4-5 (NLT)

You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand. My entire lifetime is just a moment to you; at best, each of us is but a breath. Psalm 39:4-5 (NLT)

1. Money

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 1 Timothy 6:6-10 (NIV)

Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 1 Timothy 6:6-10 (NIV)

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 1 Timothy 6:6-10 (NIV)

This is what the Lord says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it… Jeremiah 6:16 (NIV)

…and you will find rest for your souls… Jeremiah 6:16 (NIV)

3 PRACTICAL Principals for navigating through your stress:

1. Live with a sense of PURPOSE and URGENCY.

1. Put FIRST THINGS first.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12 (NIV)

Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine. Proverbs 3:9-10 (NIV)

1. Keep my HEART SET on HEAVEN.

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (NIV)

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (NIV)

Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. John 14:1-2 (NIV)

My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? John 14:1-2 (NIV)

The key to handling our stress is to stop asking God to change OUR SITUATION… and to start asking Him to change US.

Teachability= The desire and willingness to learn something new and to relearn what you think you already know

Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning. Proverbs 9:9 (NIV)

Message Title: Long-Term Teachability

…though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. Philippians 3:4-14 (NIV)

But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage that I may gain Christ… Philippians 3:4-14 (NIV)

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Philippians 3:4-14 (NIV)

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:4-14 (NIV)

He refused to see Finish lines, only Mile Markers

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal… Philippians 3:12 (NIV)

He believed there was more in him and for him.

But I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Philippians 3:12 (NIV)

1. He didn't put much stock in his Past Successes.

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind… Philippians 3:13 (NIV)

...though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. Philippians 3:4-7 (NIV)

…I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 1:13-16 (NIV)

Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:13-16 (NIV)

1. He let the Hope of the Future Compel him.

…straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal… Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 (NIV)

1. He kept his eyes on the Prize.

…to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14 (NIV)

What will you do to live a life of Long-Term Teachability?

Teachability = The desire and willingness to learn something new AND to relearn what you think you already know

Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning. Proverbs 9:9 (NIV)

Message Title: "The DANGER of Success and the BEAUTY of Failure"

He holds success in store for the upright... Proverbs 2:7 (NIV)

King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth. The whole world sought audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart. 1 Kings 10:23-24 (NIV)

I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my labor, and this was the reward for all my toil. Ecclesiastes 2:10-17 (NIV)

Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun. Ecclesiastes 2:10-17 (NIV)

Then I turned my thoughts to consider wisdom, and also madness and folly…. I saw that wisdom is better than folly, just as light is better than darkness… but I came to realize that the same fate overtakes them both. Ecclesiastes 2:10-17 (NIV)

Then I said to myself, "The fate of the fool will overtake me also. What then do I gain by being wise?" I said to myself, "This too is meaningless." For the wise, like the fool, will not be long remembered; the days have already come when both have been forgotten. Like the fool, the wise too must die! Ecclesiastes 2:10-17 (NIV)

So I hated life, because the work that is done under the sun was grievous to me. All of it is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. Ecclesiastes 2:10-17 (NIV)

As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been… 1 Kings 11:4-11 (NIV)

The Lord became angry with Solomon because his heart had turned away from the Lord, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice. Although he had forbidden Solomon to follow other gods, Solomon did not keep the Lord's command. 1 Kings 11:4-11 (NIV)

So the Lord said to Solomon, "Since this is your attitude and you have not kept my covenant and my decrees, which I commanded you, I will most certainly tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your subordinates. 1 Kings 11:4-11 (NIV)

Teachability is wisdom in attitude form.

The danger of success is that it creates comfort, which can breed pride and kill teachability in our lives.

The greatest threat of future success is current success. – Pastor Craig Groeschel

Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil. Ecclesiastes 12:12-14 (NIV)

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7 (NIV)

Most of my life's greatest lessons came cloaked in the disguise of my failures.

For a righteous man falls seven times, and rises again, but the wicked stumble in time of disaster and collapse. Proverbs 24:16 (AMP)

Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge. Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place… Psalm 51:4-17 (NIV)

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. Psalm 51:4-17 (NIV)

Then I will teach transgressors your ways, so that sinners will turn back to you… Psalm 51:4-17 (NIV)

You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. Psalm 51:4-17 (NIV)

The beauty of failure is that it holds lessons and shifts our perspective like nothing can.

We have to maintain an appropriate view of success and failure.

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:12-13 (NIV)

Success is not final, and failure is not fatal.

We have to embrace discomfort.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. James 1:2-5 (NIV)

Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-5 (NIV)

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:2-5 (NIV)

Our SUCCESS in this life is not a result of our earthly achievement, but our spiritual perseverance.

Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise. Proverbs 19:20 (NIV)

We have to commit to staying hungry AND humble.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Matthew 5:6 (NIV)

In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble." 1 Peter 5:5-10 (NIV)

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:5-10 (NIV)

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 1 Peter 5:5-10 (NIV)

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 1 Peter 5:5-10 (NIV)

Teachability = The desire and willingness to learn something new AND to relearn what you think you already know

Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning. Proverbs 9:9 (NIV)

Message Title: "Get Wisdom"

Wisdom = knowing the right thing to do and doing it.

The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Proverbs 4:7 (NIV)

Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? At the highest point along the way, where the paths meet, she takes her stand beside the gate leading into the city, at the entrance, she cries aloud: "To you, O people, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind." Proverbs 8:1-4 (NIV)

Life-Principles found in Proverbs

The Generosity Principle

One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Proverbs 11:24-25 (NIV)

The Watch Your Mouth Principle

Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin. Proverbs 13:3 (NIV)

The I Can Control My Emotions Principle

Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end. Proverbs 29:11(NIV)

The Encouragement Principle

Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up. Proverbs 12:25 (NIV)

The Wise Counsel Principle

Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. Proverbs 15:22 (NIV)

The Little-by-Little Principle

Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow. Proverbs 13:11 (NIV)

The Shut up & Work Principle

All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty. Proverbs 14:23 (NIV)

The God Knows Best Principle

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)

4 places we can discover wisdom for our lives:

OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. Proverbs 2:6-10 (NIV)

Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Proverbs 2:6-10 (NIV)

We cannot access the WISDOM of God apart from the WORD of God.

THE MOMENT WE RECOGNIZE WE NEED IT

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

If TEACHABILITY is the key to everything, then SELF-AWARNESS is the ability to pick up the key.

THE QUESTIONS WE ASK

I believe new levels of wisdom are waiting for us at the corner of SELF-AWARNESS and HUMBLE CURIOSITY.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:5 (NIV)

Our desire to learn is revealed in the questions we ask.

The best question to ask = "What is the wise thing to do?"

To answer before listening— that is folly and shame… The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out. Proverbs 18:13-15 (NIV)

THE PEOPLE IN OUR LIVES

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. Proverbs 13:20 (NIV)

The purpose in a man's heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out. Proverbs 20:5 (ESV)

If we are going to live lives of TEACHABILITY, we have to forever redefine the word TEACHER in our lives.

"The ultimate goal is to see everyone, everywhere, everyday as a teacher you can learn from. That's what it means to live a lifestyle of teachability." – Matt Keller