Jesus reminds us that, although everything bad is a result of sin, we shouldn't think it's a punishment for a specific sin. The ultimate punishment for sin is Hell. He promises that everything can be used by God for our good and his glory. 

Jesus models for us how to share the living water of the Gospel with others.

Share Living Water

· In _______________________ places

o Like:

· With _____________________ people

· Let them know you have ____________________________________________

· Help them recognize their ______________________

· Manage their objections by

o Avoiding ________________________

o Focusing on _____________________

It doesn't seem fair that because Adam sinned we die. But remember, it's not fair that because Jesus lived a perfect life and died in our place we get to live with God in glory forever. 

You don't often think of war in connection with Jesus, but Isaiah reminds us that he is a warrior. He left heaven and came to earth on a mission to defeat sin, Satan and death for us. He was victorious over his enemies. In grace, the Father gives his victory to us.

Don't look for glory on earth that doesn't endure. Look forward to the eternal glory Jesus won by his life and death in our place. Jesus endured it all for us by looking forward to the glory he would inherit after his resurrection.

Like Israel, we have many times each day when we have a choice to listen to God or to listen to Satan or the wisdom of the world. Considering all that God has done for us, choose life, listen to his word.

As sons of God through faith in Jesus you ARE salt and light for the world. Share the salt of the Gospel so that others are brought to faith in Jesus and preserved in the judgment. Let the light of your faith and the love of Jesus shine in all you do and say. Don't keep your faith to yourself.

Like Israel, you might feel God has wearied you, but the fact is, you are blessed. Treating God like an idol that you can manipulate is what wearies you. Seeing God as your Savior inspires you to serve God and your neighbor with joy.

All too often Christians major in minors. They focus on buildings and carpets and style of music. They insist on their own personal preferences and end up causing divisions that hinder the mission of proclaiming to gospel to all. Paul encourages us to focus on what matters, the salvation of souls, the proclamation of the gospel. When we do, divisions will disappear.

In the midst of the troubled times of the last days Paul reminds us to keep pointing our children in the right direction, to Jesus and the the Scriptures.